Confusing Iams response re: Sinclair

[jasmeel]

Dear Concerned Consumer:

Thanks for contacting us about Sinclair Broadcast Group's plans to air
"Stolen Honor: Wounds That Never Heal."

We haven't reviewed the content of this program, nor would we advertise in it. One of our guiding principles is that we don't advertise in programs where there is expression for or against a given political candidate.

The way we spend our advertising dollar is important to us. For most TV programming, we're able to review the content on a show by show basis before making any advertising decisions. You may see some of our commercials air on the Sinclair Broadcast Group's network during shows that we've already agreed to appear in. The networks also have control over TV programming and can choose to preempt regularly scheduled programming with different programs, such as this one.

We appreciate your comments and I'm sharing them with those responsible for
television sponsorship.

Sincerely,
Marilinn
Iams Consumer Care, North America

<< Does this mean that they are not going to advertise anymore with them??>

[Worst Username Ever]

1. It means they will not advertise DURING the program, which is stupid

because the show (or whatever they are replacing it with) is commercial-free. Dumb. It is a meaningless response.

[Catzenmouse]

2. Three more responses from advertisers

I have been getting responses from sponsors all day, many of which have all ready been posted, but here for a few more:

Dear Valued Lowe’s Customer,

Thank you for your comment regarding concerns about advertising on the Sinclair Broadcasting network. Lowe’s does not advertise in political programming. We will not advertise within this political documentary, nor will the company’s local advertising appear on any Sinclair stations the day the stations air the documentary.


Lowe’s has a strict company policy specifying that its advertising is not to run in controversial programming. The company advertises primarily in national, network prime-time television programs, cable outlets and on local stations in select markets.



Thank you for bringing this matter to our attention.



Lowe’s Customer Care


Thank you for your email regarding Sinclair Broadcasting Group. We have
received numerous emails from individuals regarding this issue; some
threatening to boycott our company, and some encouraging us not to buckle
to this threat.

Regis Corporation does not participate in political or religious
activities. Simply put, we cut hair. We employ over 53,000 people, many
of whom are paid on commission, and rely on that income to support their
families. By boycotting us, you are hurting individuals - our employees
and their families.

We have notified Sinclair Broadcasting Group not to air our advertising
during or adjacent to any political programming. That is the right thing
to do. To take any further action would be inappropriate, and not in
keeping with our responsibilities to our employees and our stockholders.

In return, we are asking you to remove our name from your boycott list.

Thank you.

REGIS CORPORATION


Letter sent to Sinclair Broadcast Group from Regis

VIA FACSIMILE

October 14, 2004

Mr. David D. Smith
Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc.
10706 Beaver Dam Road
Hunt Valley, MD 21030

Dear Mr. Smith:

I am writing regarding a matter of deep concern. We have received well
over 1,000 e-mails from consumers threatening to boycott our salons due to
anti-Kerry political programming your stations are planning to run. The
argument is that since we advertise on some of your stations, we are
supporting this programming. To be clear, we do not condone or participate
in political activities. These divisive activities are best left to
individuals.

Therefore, we are demanding that your stations not run any of our
advertisements during or adjacent to this political programming. In the
event this reasonable demand is not adhered to, we will hold your company
completely responsible for any damages we sustain.

Thank you in advance for your cooperation.

Sincerely,

REGIS CORPORATION


At U.S. Cellular, we strive to provide the very best in customer
satisfaction and we appreciate your recent inquiry regarding Sinclair
Broadcasting Group. As a non-partisan corporation, U.S. Cellular does not
take a position in the presidential race. However, we believe the program
"Stolen Honor" does not provide an optimal environment for our advertising.
Therefore, we have instructed Sinclair affiliates not to run U.S. Cellular
commercial spots two hours before, during and after the program's airing.
We value your opinion and hope our response addresses your concerns.

Sincerely,

John E. Rooney
President & CEO
U.S. Cellular


Cheers,
Cat :)

[MaryBear]

3. I received the same response.

Today when I bought dog food, I purchased 1/2 Iams and 1/2 a different brand. I'll be transitioning my pup off of Iams!

GB