The Damp Reality

Dear United States Postal Service:

We have a persistent issue receiving magazines in our mailbox that have a wet, wrinkly, and pages-stuck-together spot on the front or back. It has been a recurring issue all summer, and occurred again today. We suspect that the wetness and deterioration comes from a carrier's perspiration or perhaps a dripping water bottle in his or her bag of mail. In any case, it is icky and degrades the quality (and sometimes readability) of our magazines. I will be sharing this letter with readers of my consumer-affairs blog online, and will be happy to share your response with them, as well.

Sincerely,

The eValue-ator

Response (two days later):

Dear [eValue-ator]:

We will act immediately to ensure that your mail, your carrier’s performance, and service in general receive more care and attention. We must catch mistakes like the ones you brought to our attention before they happen. We are truly disappointed that we did not provide you with good service. We will make extended efforts to improve upon our performance, as we value your business and would like to keep you as a satisfied customer.

Thank you for the opportunity to address this matter with you.


[local city name] Post Office

Thanks, post office. We'll be alert to damp mail from now on and let you know.