Detroit is down, but Michigan has the right marketing idea

Trader Joe's Captain Began As "Box Boy"

Johann Patterson, the very personable Captain of the Trader Joe's store in University Shopping Center in Thousand Oaks, left an indelible, positive impression on students in Ritch's Marketing class today.  Taking time from his busy schedule to be with students, the energetic, outgoing and inspiring store manager shared how he rose from his entry level job to manage the "neighborhood store" close to the California Lutheran University campus.

The Captain also spoke about the history, culture and products that comprise TJ's brand.  Additionally, he gave examples which directly related to student interest in not just getting a job but also how to keep it.  The Captain is a wonderful ambassador for the highly popular grocery with great natural products at reasonable prices. 

Sparky Will Be Greatly Missed

I first met George "Sparky" Anderson during a "Roast and Toast" reception for Domino's Pizza CEO Tom Monaghan, the then new owner of the Detroit Tigers.  We held the special event in Crisler Arena on the campus of the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor after the Tigers beat the San Diego Padres to win the 1984 World Series.

Many years later when I was recruited to spearhead the first integrated marketing and communications function at California Lutheran University in Thousand Oaks, Sparky and I recounted that wonderful experience.  While many people knew him better than me, few admired him more.  Like the great Tigers announcer, Ernie Harwell, who joined us for the dedication of Sparky's diamond on the CLU campus, he will be greatly missed.

Our community, our state and our nation have lost one of the most gracious, thoughtful, humble and knowledgeable baseball strategists we will ever know.