President's Message

SUMMER 2008

NEW SOUTHERN PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Conference 2008 is a CALIFORNIA CHAPTER wrap – that’s Hollywood talk…it comes naturally DEBUTS IN after our fantastic three- days of inspiration, SOLANA BEACH stimulation, information, The Southern Californa Chapter of IFDA, the and, yes, recreation in Los Angeles. second new chapter to be formed in as The energy, excitement, and enthusiasm were many years, is up and running in Southern at the highest level I’ve ever experienced at an California, with its kick-off event set for IFDA Conference. Our meeting site, the Omni unfold. I was especially proud to see the August 20 at the San Diego Convention at California Plaza, was smack in the lively chapter presidents take on and tackle together Center. center of downtown LA, steps away from the some of the issues they themselves had identi- IFDA president Dave Gilbert, who new Museum of Modern Art…a scant block fied. Great teamwork and camaraderie. announced the new chapter after it was from Frank Gehry’s gleaming Disney Concert On to Conference 2009. On to Philadelphia! authorized at the Board of Directors meeting Hall…a bus ride from the fabled back lot of in May, points out, ”In a slowing economy, it The City of Brotherly Love is within easy reach is more important than ever to belong to a Warner Bros studios. of many chapters on the East Coast; you who’ll professional organization that specializes in If you missed Conference, you missed a lot. be coming across the country will find the reaching out to colleagues and members of My one wish: that more of you could profit Philadelphia airport convenient, with service the broad range of the furnishings and from the speakers and experts, whose advice from many airlines. The Conference committee design industry.” and insights will help us work through these is already making plans. I hope you’ll start Rita Orland of Wings, Inc. Design has been hard economic times and be ready when the planning now to be there, too. Meanwhile, designated as chapter coordinator, and upswing returns. stay tuned to the IFDA Website www.ifda.com Designcorp, International, of Solana Beach IFDA‘s own Hollywood “movie” starred the for the latest updates. will serve as the SoCal Chapter center for Council of Presidents and the Board of Speaking of the Website, Conference-goers meetings. Owner Chris Jordan, herself a got to preview its look and feel. The finished new IFDA member, has also offered to Directors, who put in two days’ hard work provide a discounted purchasing program as leading up to Conference. We worked site is almost ready to go “live,” many thanks an added benefit to new IFDA - So Cal together to continue developing IFDA and the to chair Judith Clark-Janofsky, and her members. Designcorp is located at 444 benefits you’ll be hearing more about as they computer maven son Jason, who led us S.Cedros Ave., Ste. 100, in Solana Beach. through the maze of proposals and prepara- Rita Orland can be reached at 858-759- tion at no charge to us. 4923 or at: [email protected]. As you’ll soon see, the new site will better Guest speaker at the August 20 debut event reflect the design industry we all represent. will be Grace McNamara, publisher of the Make good use of it…in your own work, in Window Fashions Magazine, and a recipient introducing prospective new members, in of IFDA’s Trailblazer award, and will give staying on board and on top as IFDA becomes members insight in “Upcoming Trends and the Gold Standard of the furnishings and How Our Industry is Changing.” The event was sponsored by Danmer Custom Shutters, design industry. Wings, Inc. Design, and Designcorp Intl. My very best, Attendees will also receive complimentary passes to the Interior Expo trade show at the convention center. So Cal brings to l7 the number of IFDA IFDA 2008 Conference keynote speaker Kenneth Brown, of chapters around the U.S. The Richmond, the HGTV network's "ReDesign" program, wasted no time in "getting to know" some of the IFDA's finest a little better. Virginia, chapter came on board in 2006, "Sharing the love" with IFDA member Helen Wagner after David Gilbert, FIFDA and another new chapter – the first in Japan the session capped off an outstanding presentation. -- is the final stages of formation (see related article on page 3). ARIZONA | BALTIMORE | CAROLINAS | FLORIDA | GEORGIA | ILLINOIS | MICHIGAN | MINNESOTA | NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

HIGHLIGHTS FROM CONFERENCE 2008 The stars shone on IFDA - and within IFDA - during May Conference in Los Angeles.

So close to Hollywood, the action-packed program naturally included TV and movie celebs -- HGTV’s Kenneth Brown of “reDe- sign” was the Conference opener and everyone went star-struck on the Warner Bros back lot tour. IFDA members also took on starring roles, leading workshops, educational seminars, and extra-curricular fun junkets to local attractions, like the extraordinary Greene & Greene Gamble House and the Pasadena Designer Showhouse, at 44, the mother of all showhouses everywhere. Here, from IFDA reporters and paparazzi are clients each day. Create strategic alliances. highlights from three highly successful days. Keynote speaker Kenneth Brown seconded that one: He said his own design business took How to Say It to Sell It: With the positive off when he partnered with a realtor who had outlook of Norman Vincent Peale and the Brown stage the houses he was buying and energy of a chihuahua, comedic motivational flipping. For more about Sue, go to “SpeakerSue” Hershkowitz-Coore warned that www.speakersue.com. our challenging times call for new and different thinking and acting. Reported by Karen Wirrig, FIFDA Don’t rely on “default thinking,” said Sue. Interior design can change the world: Instead, look for a second or third “right” Author/designer/consultant Mary Knackstedt answer to a problem. And be wary of the cost reiterated the critical role design plays in 2008. of expertise, that is, of becoming so good at “Design is both wonderful, and it’s dangerous. what you do that you fail to learn new things. I’ve seen good design help build a corporation Insight: Know what you are really selling and and make it successful…and I’ve seen bad what the client is really buying. design destroy it! Craft your core message (the “elevator descrip- “Clients want a designer to add safety, security, “Design is powerful. My advice to today’s tion”) so the other person has to ask, “How?” and health, to give them a better environment young: ‘Don’t get an MBA, get a design Example; the designer whose messages is “I in which to carry on their lives… and they are degree!’” Reach Mary at help people get over their fear of furniture.” willing to pay for (such) creativity. Be sure your [email protected]. clients know and appreciate what design brings Reported by Rose Gilbert, FIFDA Action points: Call different past and potential to their family lives. 2008 TRAILBLAZER AWARD Napa-based textile designer Barbara Now represented in l4 showrooms nation- Beckmann has been named IFDA Trailblazer wide, Beckmann’s 23-year-old company of the year. Barbara Beckmann Designs (www.barbabeckmanndesigns.com) The prestigious award is presented annually to has developed ground-breaking and experi- an innovator who meaningfully alters some mental effects for dyeing/painting fabrics that aspect of the furnishings and design industry. have made her designs into trendsetters Beckmann, best known for exceptional hand- recognized from coast-to-coast. At the woven silks and exclusive hand- personal request of developer Steve Wynn, IFDA President, Dave Gilbert and Trailblazer, Barbara Beckmann painted/printed designs, joins a select group of Beckmann custom-designed fabrics for the previous Trailblazers, including First Lady Lady swank Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas. Color Her Outstanding: Fabric Artist Bird Johnson, designer Raymond Waites, Barbara Beckmann Is Our 2008 designer-architects Michael Graves and The award presentation was a highlight of the Trailblazer Philippe Starck, developer Tramell Crow, textile recent IFDA Industry Forum and Conference in designer Jack Lenor Larsen, and publisher Los Angeles. Acknowledging her extraordinary hand with Grace McNamara. colors and deluxe hand-painted fabrics,

HELP 1UP: WE NEED TO ACT… NOW The Conference experience was heightened with Jeff Hay. A week after Conference Jeff with our having Jeff Hay, the newly forwarded an email written by Kenneth appointed Executive Director of the NFBA Brown. (National Furniture Bank Association) as our On Saturday Jeff Hay left us to fly back to keynote speaker for Friday’s luncheon. His Columbus, OH, to his wife and their seven- message is a powerful one. There are year old son, their pride and joy. Let’s now 250,000 children in this country who sleep show our pride in being the first to step up on the floor at night. Hence, the Help1ulp to help the NFBA by acting on our ideas and slogan, “No child in American should have planning ways to make a difference. The to sleep on the floor.” Ellen Cohen (left), Kenneth Brown and Jeff Hay NFBA is our National Charity. Thanks to all He related the phone call he received after of you who had wonderful ideas at Confer- arriving from the Biltmore Hotel down the bet soup” - all the acronyms of organizations ence and to all our members with ideas yet street who called him with, 1,000 mattresses and companies endorsing the NFBA. Later in to come that will increase the exposure and to donate to the NFBA. I can only imagine the day I asked Jeff the level of involvement capability of the NFBA across the nation. I the frustration Jeff feels, as this is a call he of these companies. He said our Association am continuing my calls to all Chapter receives often from hotels across the is the first to want to act, not just endorse Presidents. I ask all IFDA members to keep country… frustration because there is no the NFBA. We can take pride in our being thinking of how we can best serve the NFBA furniture bank close enough to the Biltmore the first to act… and now we must act. and to contact me with your suggestions. to accept the mattresses and get them to Flying in a day earlier afforded Jeff the You can visit www.help1up.org, the qualifying recipients. opportunity to connect first-hand with so charitable arm of the NFBA, or contact me to He spoke about the “Designing Divas” who many of our members. He sensed the enthu- learn more about this worthwhile cause. work with the Houston Furniture Bank, a siasm from our members attending confer- There is a manual available to those Chap- group of designers who have found a ence interested in furthering the NFBA ters interested in starting a furniture bank in respectful way to let the furniture recipients program. As I spoke with IFDA members and your area. The NFBA will assist in this process know they matter. These designers go to the their Chapter Presidents while in LA, many to insure a successful outcome. Please recipient’s home to clean up and arrange the wonderful ideas were formulated. contact me at [email protected] if you furniture. Because they are poor, Jeff While at Conference Jeff Hay had an oppor- are interested in receiving this manual. reminds us, does not mean they shouldn’t be tunity to connect with Kenneth Brown Ellen Cohen, National Director at Large treated with respect and dignity. following Kenneth’s presentation earlier the One of the slides in Jeff’s presentation same day. Kenneth had not heard of the showed what he referred to as the “alpha- NFBA and seemed interested in follow-up IFDA JAPAN ON THE WAY! wanted to tap Maureen’s special expertise in organizing and promoting a designer showhouse, a totally new concept in Japan. She also asked Maureen to discuss IFDA and the possibility of PHILADELPHIA, starting a chapter there. “Since then, Yasu and a small Designer Yasue Ishikawa is working One of Yasue’s designs brings together a harmonious HERE WE COME! with New York Chapter member blend of style, comfort and elegance. steering committee have Maureen Klein to design IFDA’s spread the word on IFDA,’ ’09 Conference Set For September Japan Chapter Maureen reports. “They’ve Revolutions? Maybe not, but revelations are What started as a glint in designer Yasue met with other design and business groups, definitely in store for IFDAers who converge Ishikawa’s eye now looks like a new IFDA applied for and received a start up grant on historic Philadelphia for a fact - and fun - chapter, the first ever in Japan, with a from the American Chamber of Commerce filled Conference Sept. 24-26, 2009. membership drive under way and a schedule in Japan, and are lining up potential The Conference committee is already at of events – maybe including a designer sponsors.” showhouse – already laid out for the fall. work, recruiting presenters and planning First event on the new chapter’s calendar is a events guaranteed to sharpen your profes- The chapter began to coalesce last April, September seminar and celebration at the sional skills. Count on having fun, too. when NY Chapter president Maureen Klein stunning Osaka headquarters of the design The City of Brotherly Love is known for its traveled to Japan to meet with the Interior and architectural firm, Decorative Mode hospitality, as well as its history. Coordinators Assn. (ICA) of Osaka, and NO.3. Mr. Hattori, who heads the design speak to design students at Mukogawa division, Graf (www.graf-d3.com) is Mark your calendars and watch University. Yasue, who heads a design firm in well-known as an important guru to young for further details. Tokyo and Kobe and is both a long-time Japanese designers and artists. friend and member of the NY Chapter,

IFDA EDUCATIONAL IFDA CHAPTER NEWS FOUNDATION: Arizona Chapter President will be Barry Dixon of Barry Dixon Interiors and Presents Check To EF For New Jared Miller of Jared Miller, LLC. Barry Dixon is HONORING CHAPTER MEMBERS a widely published and highly successful Barbara Brock Memorial Grant interior designer who has worked with clients A number of IFDA chapters sponsor scholar- Karen Sugarman, Arizona Chapter President, throughout the world and has designed ships or grants in honor of longtime dedicated furniture for several high end furniture compa- members or in memory of IFDA leaders. presented an oversized check for $10,000 to nies. Jared Miller is a business consultant who Current EF scholarships include: The Carolinas Linda Mariani, Educational Foundation Chair has worked with a variety of interior designers Chapter Ruth Clark Scholarship for Furniture for a new Barbara Brock Memorial Grant. It will and architects, including Charlotte Moss and Design; the EF Part Time Student Scholarship; establish a fund to pay travel expenses for the IFDA Leaders Commemorative Scholarship “IFDA Experts” to speak at various industry David Easton. Mr. Dixon and Mr. Miller will sponsored by the Georgia Chapter; the IFDA venues such as Market Week, Design Center discuss the keys to managing a successful Student Member Scholarship; the Marketing events, educational conferences, Home Shows, business in today’s market. Internship Scholarship conceived by Jeanne etc. This special fund will provide sponsoring An IFDA luncheon to welcome our out of town Byington; the Vercille Voss Scholarship for groups an incentive to use IFDA member visitors will be held at Agecroft Hall on the Graduate Study; and the Raymond Waites experts for their programs and generate rolling banks of the James River. This Tudor Fund for Traditional Design. greater exposure for the speaker as well as estate was actually built in Lancashire, England EF Grants include: the Arizona Barbara Brock IFDA. All chapters will be asked to provide EF in the late 15th Century. For hundreds of Memorial Grant; Northern California Tony with contact information about members with years, Agecroft Hall was the distinguished Torrice Professional Development Grant; the CEU or consultant credentials as well as indus- home of England's Langley and Dauntesey Texas Chapter Elizabeth Brown Grant for try venues in their area. families. In 1925 it was sold at auction to Interior Design Programs; the Washington Richmonder Thomas C. Williams, Jr. Mr. Chapter Irma Dobkin Universal Design Grant Richmond Chapter Presents Williams had it dismantled, crated, and as well as the Ina Mae Kaplan Grant for A Day of Design - October 7, 2008 shipped across the Atlantic, and then painstak- Historic Preservation; the Schoenthal Leader- by Jennifer Stoner ingly reassembled in a Richmond neighbor- ship Forum, along with four Chapter Partner- hood known as Windsor Farms. ship Grants and a new Chapter Development The Richmond Chapter of the IFDA is delighted Grant. to announce it’s first, hopefully annual, Day of Following lunch, the afternoon session will Design event to be held on October 7, 2008. Chaired by Dr. Wilma Hammett, FIFDA, past EF begin with a tour of the 2008 Richmond The event will include visits to some of Chair, and Sarah Jenkins, FIFDA, past IFDA Symphony Designer Showhouse. The beauti- Richmond’s most beautiful historic treasures. National President, the EF "March to a ful historic greek revival home is located on Million" financial initiative is designed to The morning session will take place at the fashionable West Cary Street in the heart of increase not only EF scholarship and grant historic Bolling Haxall House, home to The Richmond. Enjoy an arpeggio of some of funds, but also help the Foundation reach its Woman’s Club of Richmond. A lecture series Richmond’s finest design professionals. It will philanthropic goals that benefit worthy will be moderated by Candace Ord Manroe, be followed by a wine and hors d’oeuvres charitable endeavors, as well as educational Senior Interior Design Editor of Traditional reception with Barry Dixon. Mr. Dixon will programs for students, IFDA chapters, and the Home Magazine. Ms. Manroe will discuss the share his inspirations for his new book and public at large. importance of getting your work published in discuss some of his favorite projects. The book All members of IFDA, as well as chapters, are this competitive industry. Our feature speakers will be available for purchase at advance ticket encouraged to make a tax deductible locations and at the reception. Mr. Dixon has donation or pledge to the EF March on a graciously offered to sign copies of his book monthly or annual basis. Members are also and donate partial proceeds to benefit encouraged to include EF in trusts and legacy Embrace Richmond, the Richmond IFDA planning. One such donation has enabled EF Chapter’s charitable partner. to sponsor annual leadership seminars at no For ticket information, please visit cost and with conference expense rebates for www.ifdarichmond.com. Travel and hotel attendees. They are designed to engender information will also be provided. leadership skills that enhance the association, the business community and the industry as a Agecroft Hall whole. For information on how to contribute to the EF March to a Million, go to ifdaef.org. SPREAD THE WORD! SUMMER SAVINGS! Chairman Linda Marinai reports that a number of pledges have already been received from $UMMER $AVINGS FOR NEW* MEMBERS IFDA members. "Building on a good start for • Professional Members: $150. this ambitious project, we look forward to Good news for budget-minded friends seeing the 'March to a Million' and the and colleagues who’ve been holding • New Professional Members (recently IFDA/EF March-A-Thon reach out to tens of back on IFDA membership: between entering the furnishings and Design thousands in this country who are interested in industry;eligible for two years only): $150. helping advance opportunities for the now and September 30, irresistible • Student Member: $45 (membership term students who are the future of our industry. " new rates will apply: is one year). Applications are available on the IFDA Website, *This offer is open to new IFDA members or those www.ifda.com. who have not been a member for 2 years or more. 4 NETWORK | SUMMER 2008 NEW ENGLAND | NEW YORK | PHILADELPHIA | RICHMOND | SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA | TEXAS | WASHINGTON

IFDA UPDATES DESIGNER Exclusive Member Benefit: By-Law Changes LICENSING IFDA Insurance Program As a result of the Council of Presidents and the Board of Directors Meetings in May, 3 PANEL AND changes to the IFDA By-Laws were proposed and voted upon by the 15 IFDA Chapter DISCUSSION Boards. The International Furnishing and Design Association (IFDA) has partnered with Fox Change #1: Elimination of Article 13: Point Programs to provide its membership Previously Article 13 was titled with Errors & Omissions insurance (E&O) “Advocacy/Influence” and referred to the specifically tailored to meet the needs of prohibition of any political or legislative design professionals. The Association stand on any issue by the Association. This selected Fox Point because of its underwrit- Article has been eliminated entirely. In ing expertise, legal status, and commitment theory, the IFDA and its Chapters may now to customer service. undertake those activities as allowed by the The purchase of adequate E&O insurance is IRS rules for non-profit. a critical element of any business Change #2: Change in New Professional professional’s overall risk mitigation strategy. Member Description IFDA’s National Conference featured a lively Errors and Omissions is a coverage designed debate and interactive discussion on one of to protect an insured against allegations of In an attempt to clarify the requirements of our industry‘s most controversial topics: mistakes made while performing the duties the New Professional Member category, the Whether designers should be licensed by the associated with his/her business. This policy wording was changed from having state. “recently” entered active business in the includes coverage for both defense costs The panel consisted of Robert Lashua, from (e.g., attorney fees, court costs, etc.) and industry to having entered the industry “for the first time.” our Arizona chapter, who has been instru- settlements or judgments. Intentional mental in spearheading “Design Freedom”, wrongful acts are specifically excluded. Change #3: Reduction in the number of and the push for information and involve- Think you don’t need Errors and Omissions members on the Board of Directors ment amongst IFDA members; Doug Stead, insurance? Think again. The average cost of Previously the National Board of Directors a lawyer with CCIDC, California Council for legal defense for a professional liability suit is consisted of nine members including six Interior Design Certification, and Jennifer over $35,000 – an expense that must be Directors at Large. In an effort to streamline Perkins, an attorney with the Institute for incurred even if the action is found to be the Board and reduce costs the number of Justice. groundless. And if the verdict goes against Directors at Large have been reduced to five. A resource page was handed out to all who you, the financial impact of the judgment To view the most current copy of the IFDA attended the panel discussion, with award could be devastating. By-Laws on the IFDA website click here. or Resources, Information and Assistance for The premium for E&O insurance is as little as paste the following in your browser... organizing Grassroots Initiatives in Opposi- $850 per year. IFDA members also receive http://www.ifda.com/doc/IFDA_Bylaws_2006.pdf tion to Interior Designer Licensing, with a up to $25,000 of Identity Theft protection at well-rounded list of councils, organizations no additional cost to them. This valuable Website Update and publications/articles to research, read or coverage provides reimbursement for the The IFDA is proud to have a tremendous contact for further information. expenses related to the recovery of one’s number of talented and gifted members. Attending in the audience were a few identity, including defense costs for certain When it comes to volunteering their time designers who were both IFDA and ASID civil suits and re-filing for loans. Coverage is and abilities for the greater good of all members, two of which were also NCIDQ provided for lost wages if time off work is members, the result is spectacular. certified, which created some “devils’ related to a covered stolen identity event. This is evident in the extraordinary efforts of advocate” back and forth discussions, both The product also provides access to trained former IFDA President Judith Clark Janofsky interesting and informative. specialists on call to guide individuals and her son Jason, who are spearheading through the process of restoring their All who attended came away with a lot of the redesign and launch of the IFDA’s new identity profiles and credit records. Certain good information from the panel. website. Jason has been working tirelessly restrictions apply. with a web design team and each day brings Janet Stevenson Interested in learning more? Visit Fox Point’s us closer to getting the new site up on the website at www.foxpointprg.com for web. The new capabilities of the website are product fact sheets, downloadable applica- nothing short of brilliant. Attendees at the tions, and more. You can also speak to one IFDA Annual Conference were able to get a of their insurance professionals by calling sneak peak at the new design and how to them toll-free at 800-499-7242. navigate its many attributes. Stay tuned – the IFDA’s new website will be on-line soon. In the meantime, our thanks to Judith, the IFDA website committee and to Jason for all their efforts.

IFDA GUIDE TO USING E-NEWSLETTERS AND BLAST E-MAILS The New CAN-SPAM Rules with post-office boxes and private mailboxes, • Offer a functioning return email address or other web-based mechanism, clearly You might not consider your e-newsletters and provided that they are accurately registered, as and conspicuously displayed, that the marketing emails to be "spam," but the FTC's well as by street addresses. recipient can use to make an opt-out regulations stemming from the CAN-SPAM Act 3. A prohibition against barriers to "opting request. do apply to you, nonetheless. The latest regula- out" of future email. CAN-SPAM requires tions issued in May clarify who must follow the emailers to provide recipients with a clear • Provide clear and conspicuous rules (yes, even you), plus how to handle opportunity to opt out of further mailings. identification of the message as an opt-ins, sender addresses, and joint marketing According to the FTC, some marketers have advertisement or solicitation and of the campaigns. been using the opt-out mechanism as a means recipient's right to opt out of receiving to collect additional personal information future commercial messages from The recently released CAN-SPAM rules don't the sender. free you or your IFDA Chapter from the regula- about the message recipient or to subject them • Provide a valid physical postal address for tions that have governed email campaigns for to advertising. Now, you may only require that the sender. the past few years. But, the latest guidelines do a message recipient send a reply email or visit a make it clearer how you can stay out of trouble single web page to opt out. The new rule on designating a sender also over email opt-outs, return addresses, and 4. A test to determine who is the "sender" states that if the sender does not comply with more. of joint marketing email. This rule allows all of these transmission responsibilities, then all of the marketers whose products or services On May 12, the Federal Trade Commission you to designate a single "sender" and thus are advertised in the message will be liable as (FTC) issued new rules for Controlling the include only one opt-out mechanism and one "senders." In effect, this provision requires you Assault of Non-Solicited Pornography and valid physical postal address when sending to make sure that you carefully outline the Marketing (CAN-SPAM) Act of 2003. Congress email that features the products and services of designated sender's responsibilities in contracts passed CAN-SPAM to provide direction on how multiple organizations. Such messages could or other joint marketing arrangements. to manage messages subject to requirements include, for example, promotions for services, for "commercial" email. The new rules seminars or publications even if you cosponsor The fifth topic the FTC raised in 2005 was reinforce the FTC's position that the act's them with another organization. whether to reduce the amount of time you requirements apply even to promotional have to process opt-out requests from 10 messages sent by Chapters, Associations and business days to three. The FTC declined to other tax-exempt nonprofits. adopt this rule, and the timeframe remains at 10 business days after you receive the request. The rules and related FTC commentary can help by providing helpful guidance on a Forward-to-a-Friend Messages number of issues, including how to manage In addition to the new rules, the FTC issued joint email marketing initiatives and forward- guidance on a number of other email market- to-a-friend features. ing issues raised by CAN-SPAM. The 4 New Rules The FTC reviewed how CAN-SPAM affects Under this test, you can designate one sender "forward-to-a-friend" marketing tactics, in The FTC has adopted new rules on four out of if that person five topics that it proposed in May 2005. which a recipient is induced to forward a 1. Meets the act's definition of "sender"; commercial message to another person. These 1. The act's coverage. The rules dictate that 2. Is uniquely identified in the "from" line of programs usually involve either an original CAN-SPAM applies to emails that are primarily the email; and recipient forwarding the email to others or a intended to advertise or promote a commercial website that enables a visitor to provide email product or service sent by any individual, 3. Complies with certain email transmission addresses for other potential recipients. group, unincorporated association, limited or requirements already included in the act. The FTC concluded that if you offer money, general partnership, corporation, or other The act defines "sender" as "a person who coupons, discounts, awards, additional entries business entity. The FTC rejected arguments initiates a [commercial electronic mail message] in a sweepstakes, or other inducements to from several organizations that there should be and whose product, service, or internet encourage a person to forward a commercial a blanket exemption for all messages sent by website is advertised or promoted by the email message, you are responsible for ensur- unincorporated nonprofit entities, such as message." ing that the forwarded email complies with the associations. The FTC clarified that the "from" line could act's opt-out and disclosure requirements. So, if you send emails to promote membership include the designated sender's name, trade However, if you merely provide a mechanism in your Chapter or advertise the sale of name, product, or service, provided that the by which someone can forward a message services, the FTC believes those are "commer- line is not deceptive. without an inducement, then you're involved cial" messages subject to the act's require- in the routine conveyance of an email and not The email transmission requirements that the ments. responsible for transmission requirements with designated sender must comply with include: 2. The definition of "valid physical postal respect to the forwarded email. address." CAN-SPAM requires all commercial • Ensure that the email does not contain Complex? Perhaps – but IFDA Headquarters is email messages to include a "valid physical false or misleading transmission here to help. Let us know if you have any postal address" for the message sender. The information or a deceptive "subject" questions or would like additional information rule spells out that this requirement can be met heading. on what you can and cannot do under the new federal rules.

SOUND BITES IRMA DOBKIN family,” Larry says. “I am doing third and REMEMBERED fourth house for them. The first house is hard, just like the first marriage.” His core message: “Beauty is skin deep, but ugly goes straight to the bone.” Like Mother, Like Son Directing runs in the Dobkin family, at least, to hear Irma Dobkin’s son David tell it. Acknowledging EF’s Universal Design Grant, now named after his late mother, Dobkin the film producer/director (“The Wedding Merry Mabbett Dean (left) and David Dobkin Crashers”) told Conference-goers about his intractable mother who even directed her Longtime Washington Chapter member, own funeral. “She had it all planned out,” IFDA Network Editor in Chief Rose Gilbert (left) Irma Dobkin, FIFDA, was honored during the and Lisa McGee in Ireland David said. “And you know there was a lot of laughter.” Conference EF luncheon. She served on the Craic-ing Up In Ireland Educational Foundation Board and was also A touring IFDAer spied a familiar by-line in What’s In A Name? EF Chairman. The Irma Dobkin Universal The Limerick Leader this spring: that of A perfect fit, in the case of another newly Design Grant has been renamed in her NY-chapter member Lisa McGee, late of renamed EF grant. The Schoenthal Executive memory. She was co-author of “Gracious House Beautiful, now of her husband’s Leadership Development Grant appropri- Spaces--Universal Interiors by Design” and hometown, Nenagh, County Tipperary. ately honors its conceptualist and driving was committed to the everyday living needs force, Harriet Schoenthal, long-time New Lisa writes and produces The Leader’s of aging and disabled segments of the bi-monthy interiors supplement, Your Home York Chapter shaker and mover. population. Her son, David Dobkin, a Today. Next, watch for her name on a new Luck Of The Draw design business …although Lisa also writes successful Hollywood movie producer and for Tourism Ireland, NY, and is a crackerjack It was a jolly good stroke for both EF and director, accepted a special award in her tour guide. Spell that “craic,” the Irish way Lynn Daley, Arizona, when her ticket came honor from EF Chair, Linda Mariani, FIFDA out the winner of the EF fund-raiser auction. of saying “good fellowship.” and EF Advisor, Merry Mabbett Dean, FIFDA. Lynn spends a week in a London flat in mid-October with $2000 for expenses, and EF chalked up $2,320 in ticket sales for future scholarships and grants.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS! 2009

IFDA member Larry Laslo N. CA Chapter President Dana Walsh CONFERENCE Always the Dedicated Public Servant SEPT. 24-26, 2009 Laslo Wins Big In Las Vegas Our vote for IFDA’s bravest goes to Dana PHILADELPHIA, PA Never mind his protest, “I’m too young to be Walsh, Northern California Chapter an icon,” Larry Laslo, New York, is the latest president and ranking Republican in a district honoree in the Design Icon Series, held July that’s famously – and overwhelmingly – Details coming soon! 31 at the World Market Center. The Democratic. Her opponent in the November celebrated designer left ‘em laughing at tales race for a US Senate seat: none other than recounted from his career “as part psychia- House Speaker and long-time incumbent trist, part lover, part husband, and part Nancy Pelosi. designer. The families I work for become my Dana’s cheerful about her chances, though, and still stumping like a trooper.

IFDA WELCOMES OUR 127 NEW MEMBERS! ARIZONA S. CALIFORNIA GEORGIA MINNESOTA New Professional Professional Member Professional Member Student Member Ann Siner Christine Jordan Virginia Torres Anne Dahlstrom Eco-Chic Consignments, Inc. Design Corp International NJD Designs, LLC Student Member New Professional Professional Member Student Member Candy Vogel Cindy Lewton Quinn Farrar Wilson Myra Burge AZ Design Group Design Corp International Student Member Student Member Christine Pierce New Professional Patti Drane FLORIDA Student Member Debbie Conforti Professional Member Student Member Elizabeth Randall Waterleaf Designs Caroline Baer Rogow Valeria M. Johnson Panache Designs New Professional Student Member Student Member Jessica Christensen Lisa Cline Professional Member Clines Natural Stone Vanessa R. Braithwaite Michael White Student Member Inspired Spaces By Michael White New Professional ILLINOIS Kelly Johnson Lisa Martin New Professional Professional Member Student Member Divine Design Interiors LLC Michael Del Piero Shelly Apel Nancy Binger Decorating Decisions Michael Del Piero Good Design New Professional Student Member Pamela Piccolo Professional Member Professional Member Terry Gustafson Designs By Pamela Stacy Canino Ellen Brink The Tamarind Group Bionic Products of America New Professional NEW ENGLAND New Professional Valerie Hopkins GEORGIA INTERNATIONAL Barbara Akey Hopkins' Fine Art and Furnishings Professional Member New Professional Barbara Akey Interiors Ghada H. Al Alawi Professional Member Bryan Marquardt Al Ala Gallery Joan Linscott Cucine Lube of Atlanta New Professional Partner Construction, Inc. Debra Skelley New Professional MEMBER-AT-LARGE Van Millwork Professional Member Kellie H. Clem Professional Member Mary Yates KHC Interiors Moises Esquenazi New Professional M.A.Y. Interior Design Le Oob, LLC Hilary Sidman New Professional Shoomine Student Member Rebecca A. White MINNESOTA Bonnie Lewis White Fitts Interiors New Professional New Professional Jeannine Riche Jennifer Lozada Professional Member Student Member French Touch Framing LLC Jennifer Lozada Christy Narsi Albert Lynch Interior Decorating Tuxedo Road Home New Professional Student Member Jessica Doody New Professional Professional Member Gwenyth Lance Design Sophisticate Karen Walsh Anita Beyer All American Concierge - Home BALTIMORE Beyers Design, Inc. Professional Member Staging & Redesign New Professional Carrie Rodman Professional Member Tammie Eckels Martha O'Hara Interiors, Inc. New Professional Frank A. Wickstead, LEED Ap CF Interiors / The Art Institute of Kim M. Roberts WicksteadWorks Pittsburgh - Online Division Professional Member Showcase Interiors Debra Riley Professional Member New Professional Room Revival for Rooms N CALIFORNIA Jenny McKimmy Lisa Renee Roberts Professional Member You Love To Live In Living Spaces Lisa Renee Roberts Anna Jacoby Professional Member Anna Jacoby Interiors Professional Member Mary Adams New Professional Jessie La Falce Margaret Furlong Professional Member Martha O'Hara Interiors, Inc. Vanguard School of Interior Margaret Furlong Design Michelle De Putron Design Professional Member Executive Home Management Mary J. Imhoff Professional Member Professional Member Barry Gano Professional Member Imhoff Painting Co. Mike Estes Lifestyle Designs Peter Weedvick Regency House Danmer Custom Shutters

IFDA WELCOMES OUR 127 NEW MEMBERS! NEW ENGLAND NEW ENGLAND PHILADELPHIA RICHMOND Professional Member Professional Member New Professional Professional Member Cynthia Driscoll Sharon Perillo Anne M. Brainbridge Alitia Cross Driscoll Associates Sharon Perillo Interiors Foxwood Interiors Benjamin Moore & Co.

Professional Member Student Member New Professional Professional Member David Jalbert Ann Neumann Donna Hoffman Carolyn Forbes Creations Architectural Interiors By Donna Hoffman Stark Carpet, Stark Fabric, Stark Woodworking Student Member Wallcovering & Stark Furniture Michelle Libby New Professional Professional Member Marianne Gassman Professional Member Dawn Oliveira NEW YORK MG Designs, Inc. Jay Rue Oliveira Textiles New Professional JayRue.com Carol Trance New Professional Professional Member Tamra Jones Professional Member Desa Facey New Professional Azure Interior Designer Mark Nedervelt Shoomine Liberty Howell Wateredge David Howell & Company New Professional Professional Member Tara Enloe Professional Member Gina Samarotto Professional Member Mary Hopcroft Alissa Adler Professional Member Bon Air Better Living Products Professional Member GLM Chris McCloud Julia Lizza Design 6 Professional Member Lizza Interiors Professional Member Susan Fleming Audra Hession Professional Member Kitchen Crafters, Inc. Professional Member Gibbs & Soell Inc. Ginger Lawton Hudson Kandis MacKay Ginger & Associates, Inc. TEXAS Cabot House Furniture Professional Member New Professional Professional Member Danielle Johnson Beverly Archer Miears Professional Member Hal Selditch GLM Abbiente Design Kara Butterfield Hal Selditch Interiors, Inc. Professional Member New Professional Professional Member Professional Member Elena Fernandez Dennis Waters Katie L. McLain Jack McDaniel Shaw Living Dennis Waters Design, Inc. Davison Custom McDaniel Furniture Services Professional Member New Professional Professional Member Professional Member Esther Sadowsky Samantha Crook Lisa Jensen Joan Conroy Charm & Whimsy Samantha, Jordan & Company Lisa Jensen Interior Design Joan Conroy Interiors, Inc. Professional Member Professional Member Professional Member Professional Member Honey Mannix, C.I.D. Cindy Wright Lori Glaser Korn Mari Dolby Honey Mannix Interior Design EF-LM Korn Interiors Ash Hill Designs / Mari Dolby Professional Member Interiors

Professional Member Jeanne Hamburg WASHINGTON New Professional Lydia Costa Norris McLaughlin & Marcus, PA Professional Member Lydia Costa INTERIORS Sabrina L. Cobb Cheri Coulter Professional Member B. Zari Interiors, LLC Cheri Coulter ArtWorks Professional Member Jennifer Quail New Professional Madeleine Lyons HFN Magazine Professional Member Su Casa Designs Stella Bost Michaela Clancy Professional Member Stella Bost Interiors Space Werks Studio Professional Member Ron Barth New Professional Petra Hausberger Resource Furniture LLC Professional Member Somerton Park Interiors Suzanne J. Lacroix Roberta Alberding Student Member Design Studio Interiors EyeOnTheWorld Photography Professional Member Juliette Ozkalfayan Ramona Rodger Professional Member Professional Member Lifestyle Designs Student Member Tae Seangpeoam Denise Willard Michal Maayani Catherine's Decor By Denise Professional Member Shari Pellows Student Member Professional Member Professional Member Shari Pellows Interiors Tak Yun Lui Theresa Barlow Linda H. Bassert Chester County Paint & Design Co. Masterworks Window Fashions & Design LLC

2008 NATIONAL CONFERENCE The Kindness of Strangers; Reason #4. Happy circumstances. Now Friends One of the entertainment options was to tour by Jean Gallagher the Pasadena Show House. I had a great time Like you, I received an invitation to the May seeing the house—with proceeds of ticket 2008 annual conference in Los Angeles. As a sales going to local arts programs—with new IFDA member and business owner, I members of the DC and Richmond Chapters. carefully considered the cost of time and But, I was having dinner with folks from my money to attend. My new interior design firm home chapter—Philadelphia—and had to find is just me, my husband Dan—our chief IT my way back to LA. It was a complicated affair officer—and our dog Barley, who is in charge to get to the Show House—by taxi and of Naps and Belly Rubs. Would attending be shuttle—and I wasn’t sure how to get back. I worth it? Perhaps unlike you, I took a chance Jean Gallagher was lucky to be in the shuttle line behind Ron, and went to LA. Jeff’s inspiring presentation and was moved to who had just finished his shift as one of the find out how we IFDA members can help. With house guides. He offered me a ride to the Del I didn’t know what I was in for, and I mean that money, certainly, but also through donations of Mar Metro Rail station in downtown Pasadena. in all the best ways: the opportunities to learn used furniture from the clients we work with. That alone would have been great, but it got new information, meet new people and What could be easier: people who need even better. Turned out that Ron was affiliated experience a few surprises along the way. If furniture get it and we all keep bulky items out with the National Trust for Historic Preservation you’ve never attended, you should know the of landfills and incinerators. Everybody wins, - helping to save the Friendship Baptist Church IFDA annual conference is a wonderful mix of right? Perhaps more important, some in Pasadena, among others. Ron is still passion- timely seminars about the furnishings and members are interested in helping to start new ate about preservation, and gave me a brief design industries, colorful speakers, and plenti- furniture banks in underserved areas. Ellen tour of great Pasadena architecture. This ful networking time—all wrapped in a Cohen, director at large on the national board included the gates of La Miniatura, a privately- delicious candy shell of social time. We packed of directors, is interested in starting one in the owned house built by Frank Lloyd Wright in a lot into three days, and I’d like to share some Philadelphia area. If you’re interested in helping 1923, the exterior of The Gamble House—one of my favorite moments and reasons why I’ll the start-up efforts, contact Ellen at (215-752- of the great Greene & Greene Arts and Crafts keep going to conference. 1966). masterpieces, other Greene and Greene built Reason #1. The kindness of strangers. homes in the area, and downtown Pasadena Reason #3. Getting a clue. before safely depositing me at the rail station. At the opening cocktail reception, I was There were several small group sessions at the An unusual happy circumstance that could not warmly greeted by the group —even though I have been more tailored to my interests, and had met just a few members only once before, conference too, and I attended the panel discussion on designer licensing. IFDA invited you’ll find your own happy circumstance when and most people there were strangers to me. you go to conference. But right away, I was made to feel like a speakers from both pro-licensing and freedom welcome part of the group. There’s nothing of licensing points of view to attend, though Reason #5. Strangers to Friends. the pro-licensing representative declined. Still, I like the feeling of going from anxious outsider My biggest take away from conference, learned a lot about the current lobbying efforts to comfortable constituent—in less than a half though, was spending time with new an hour. to limit who may call themselves interior colleagues and friends—both nationally and in designers and about the history of legislature Reason #2. Great speakers. the Philadelphia chapter. I’ve found that when and professional practices of all kinds. In IFDA members say “if there’s anything I can do The opening morning keynote speaker was the particular, did you know that there have been to help,” they mean it. Because of conference, very entertaining Kenneth Brown, host of trade groups promoting legislation to limit the I now know many, experienced trustworthy HGTV’s ReDesign. Kenneth shared many people practicing certain professions since just colleagues in the furnishings and design hilarious anecdotes from the world of TV ID. after the Civil War? I was impressed by the businesses, and a whole new set of friends. Like, to accommodate ReDesign’s very aggres- sharp minds working on the side of freedom to So, was it worth it to me? You bet! Going to sive production schedule, the design and practice, and realize that staying informed and the national conference was the best invest- production teams worked on as many as 17 involved is the most powerful thing any of us projects at once. I dream of being that busy ment I’ve made in my young business. can do, no matter where you stand on the one day. issue. Knowledge is power. Next year, come to conference. We’ll be in At another mealtime session, we heard about Philadelphia (September 24 - 26, 2009). In the Mary Knackstedt, renowned Interior Designer Help1Up, IFDA’s national charity from the very meantime, attend your local chapter meetings and business consultant, presented at break- passionate Jeff Hay, NFBA Executive Director. and events. You could make your own Help1Up is a socially and environmentally fast one morning and also held small group stranger-to-friend connection sooner than you oriented organization that provides home sessions. I didn’t make either group session, think. but was later charmed by Mary when I furnishings for people who are victims of Jean Gallagher is a residential interior designer explained that I’m new to the business and she natural disasters, of domestic violence, and practicing in the metropolitan Philadelphia offered that she thought she could help working families below the poverty line area. through a national series of furniture banks. I because I haven’t had time to develop too had never heard of a furniture bank before many bad habits. I loved her confidence and candor.

MARKETING AND SELLING IN TODAY’S ECONOMY "To me, consensus seems to be the process Don’t “sell.” The new reality is to build a and opposite reaction. If you push a decision of abandoning all beliefs, principles, values, consensus by listening more and presenting vigorously, the natural reaction is what and policies. So it is something in which no less. It enables the prospective buyer to tell Newton predicts: to push back with equal one believes and to which no one objects." us their wants and needs and, through our vigor. This can mean failing to reach consen- —British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher respective areas of expertise, allows the sus or ensuring that no one will get exactly buyer to accept new ideas and opportunities what they want or need, so that everyone is Like everyone in today’s marketplace, the as though they came up with them. Consen- equally displeased. economy has hit furnishing and design sus building is an art, one whose techniques professionals…and it has hit us hard. Past Not exactly ideal situations. They can be are constantly being developed, tested, and prospective customers are taking a avoided, however. refined, and discarded. “wait and see” attitude, electing not to fund The Secret: Get Buy-In First certain projects, or even think about them Why consensus? until the economy has become more stable, The easiest and best consensus decisions are • First, few people in decision-making roles until the presidential election has been held, facilitated by enjoy being told what to think. And in any or until their mortgage has been refinanced. sales call or presentation, we’re pushing our 1. Doing some forensic due diligence in So, if you are having trouble encouraging ideas, designs, furnishings, payment plans, advance on your customer prospects and on customers getting to “yes”, we offer some etc. If you've got the best design or product the vendors to be recommended provides suggestions to the plight we are all facing at in the world and you tell people that it is, in the respect every customer likes to be given the moment. fact, the best design or product in the world, 2. Be totally, 100% prepared. Again, it is a the instinct for many will be to look for Realize that we are in a “moment.” sign of respect of knowing and anticipating reasons why the design or product isn't so Economic phases are cyclical. This is an where the information and questions will be great after all. “event” – not an eventuality. As all things it coming from. is a temporary situation – and not a perma- • When you're building consensus, an intelli- 3. Prepare a set of questions to really get at nent one. Most importantly, we can all be gent question is infinitely more valuable than the root of what the customer is looking for. emboldened by the fact that we had nothing a brilliant statement. If you want to bring Spending the time at first to learn the to do with the current cost of gas, the fall of minds together, gentle, facilitative leading decision makers' views of the goals and financial brokering houses or the sub-prime works better than vigorous prodding. Ask. objectives will get significant support for a mortgage crisis. The bad news is that we are Suggest. Consider. These are the methods project or decision before you even start in the thick of things. The good news is that that can lead us to consensus decisions discussing it. it is going to get better. worth making. The quickest way to get stuck with a bad Have we hit bottom yet? Who knows. Who • It's important to remember Newton's Third decision-making experience is to come up cares! As we like to say here at IFDA Law of Motion: Every action has an equal with a plan based on ideas that are only Headquarters, “it is what it is.” The current inside your own head. Without external state is similar to the old adage that “you validation and an attachment to the needs play the cards you are dealt.” So fellow of others, the barriers are very high. IFDA-ers, how do we deal with this? How do we continue to make sales in this conun- Here's a simplified way to success: drum of uncertainty? 1. Never, never start the discussion by Building a Consensus to Selling proposing a solution—any solution. First, decision makers and influencers must agree As anyone can tell you who has encountered on the nature and importance of the the tense conditions consensus building problem or opportunity. Without consensus often has more to do with politics than with on the problem/opportunity and its param- the validity of the ideas presented. Bending eters, you are wasting your time discussing the ear of the prospective buyer or vendor solutions. can work wonders. 2. Forge agreement on the definition of The likelihood of successfully using the exact success. Develop criteria against which every same technique in two different situations is proposed solution will be measured. Put quite low. It depends on the person who we together benchmarks, whether by timeline are presenting to and the area of the country or funding triggers, it will advance through we are in. For example, selling a design idea performance management a successful to an empty nest formerly “yuppie” couple outcome. Do this before any analysis or who just bought a condo in New York City research on solutions begins. will require an entirely different approach when presenting exactly the same idea to 3. Set up a comprehensive, two-way newlyweds whose parents put the down communication channel with everyone payment on their new home while simulta- whose assent you need in order to decide. neously working on their Blackberries. Be as transparent as possible. Make sure What’s the new reality? Ready? Here it is: continued on next page...

continued from previous page... there's a way for the customer to express their 6. In presenting the "finalist" option(s) for those who stick by their business partners concerns and to have a voice at the table. And discussion, describe the options considered, during difficult times who enjoy the fruits of good heavens, be flexible. You have been in the roads not taken, and the reasons why. those labors when the cycle has turned toward this business for a while and know that the Reasons should refer clearly to the criteria and greater prosperity. Maintaining contact with one constant is change. It won’t be your fault, view of success developed in Step 2. Again, be customers to discuss the weather, summer but changed minds and other ideas are those free with information. Transparency builds vacations, and other non-business related of our customer. As difficult as it may be, trust; even well-meant opacity reduces it. issues goes a long way to fostering and embrace them (the ideas and changes – not Without trust, no positive decisions can be deepening the strength of a business relation- the customer), see if you can make them work made. ship. or counsel the customer to appreciate your 7. Once the decision has been made, be So when someone tells you how hard it is to understanding of the change request, but also generous with praise (and, as appropriate, make a “sale” these days, remind them about understanding why it may not be the best rewards) for everyone's efforts. Appreciation fostering a relationship through consensus decision. builds satisfaction almost as surely as results building; through listening and asking more 4. Be sure to include in your discussions all do. questions and by talking less. You – and they whose responsibilities are connected with the – may be surprised at how profitable one can Many people believe that knowledge is power project or item under discussion, and treat be in times of economic downturn. A and that hoarding knowledge can lead to them as valued participants. You'd be customer may well need or appreciate our great things. At the IFDA Educational Founda- surprised how influential others can be in advice on something entirely unrelated to tion, we take the position that while “knowl- helping the decision maker make the decision. what we sell. Value those opportunities and edge is power, applied and shared knowledge These same employees, when given respect give the counsel freely. It is hard to forget a is powerful.” When it comes to building within the process, can be your strongest member of the IFDA. Customers also know consensus, the one who holds the most advocates for the project's success. that in times of difficulty, good friends seem to information closest to the vest loses. scatter. But those who stick together to ride 5. Get as close to an either/or decision as Yes, times are difficult. And it may take some out the storm form a trusted partnership that possible. To obtain a majority decision, it is far time to get through all the current difficulties. manifests its full potential in the good times as easier to vote "yes" or "no" than it is to select But the need for design and furnishing exper- well. from options 1 through 10. tise, services and advice are omnipresent. It is JACQUELINE COUSER: AN IFDA LEGACY I know you don’t know who Jacquie was, but designed for the likes of Sen. Richard Nixon she kept the Northern California Chapter and Sen. Kefauver. Eventually she and her together for many years. It has never been as National Guard husband Chris, ended up in organized since she left due to Alzheimer’s. Sausalito (just over the bay from S.F.) where Jacquie was the National President in 1973- IFDA had many meetings with a gorgeous 1974. When I joined IFDA in 1991 she called view of San Francisco. and interviewed me to ascertain my profes- After Chris passed on, Jacquie and her IFDA sionalism in the industry. I don’t know that we pal, Rita Dake, moved to Sonoma, which is in shouldn’t be doing this today in some local the wine country north of S.F. IFDA makes for manner. At least that way we can get to know lasting friendships as Rita cared for Jacquie the new member and let them know that this until her passing. Rita was also a passed is indeed a professional organization. National President in 1970 and still has her When I was chapter president, Jacquie was Mercedes sports car that has her “IFDA” plate our Parliamentarian. She said very little, but as well. These two ladies are IFDA’s Grand would always pass me a little note at the Dame’s of The Northern California Chapter. beginning of the meeting to remind me what Upon Jacquie’s passing a few months ago, we I had to cover. The meetings have never been found that she bequeathed to the Northern as smooth since she left the board proceed- California Chapter $10,000. The Chapter ings. She attended every National Confer- feels both pleased and blessed and will be ence, drove a Mercedes sports car with an furthering her legacy by funding the Jacque- “IFDA” license plate, and to us out in the west Jacquie knew that communication and line Couser Scholarship. exemplified what IFDA stood for. If memory support can only improve IFDA. holds, her last conference was Washington She started her profession as a Designer when Jacquie will always be missed by many of us, D.C. Although not on the National Board, her husband was stationed in Pearl Harbor but now the future of many students will be Jacqui would generally attend, sit and listen during WWII by working for a design firm in enhanced by her generosity. from the side lines. Our members should all Honolulu. When her husband was transferred Judith Clark Janofsky, FIFDA, realize that they are all welcome to attend the to Washington DC she worked for a firm that Immediate Past President board meetings both locally and nationally.

EF "MARCH TO A MILLION" TO INVOLVE CHAPTERS IN NATION-WIDE MARCH-A-THON

Karen Wirrig, IFDA Director at large (left), joins Quinn Wilson, Chapter President Rita Orland, and Chris Jordan in announcing the new IFDA Southern California Chapter. Wilson and Jordan are with Designcorp, which will serve as the Chapter’s formal The IFDA Educational Foundation has To increase interest and maximize publicity, headquarters. announced a plan to involve each IFDA chapters will be encouraged to hold their chapter in "March to a Million," the bold March-a-Thon during a common time new fundraising initiative unveiled during frame. Sponsors are being solicited to the Los Angeles Conference. With the goal provide seed money to underwrite project of raising $1 million by EF's 40th Anniversary packets, signs, banners, T shirts, and press IFDA NETWORK in 2010, the project will feature a nation- releases. Details of the project will be wide March-A-Thon in 2009. announced in the next newsletter. FALL ISSUE The plan is to enlist each chapter to stage a Chapters may designate the money they DEADLINE local March for EF scholarships, grants and raise to support a specific EF scholarship or educational programs. Members, students, grant, the goal being to build funds to SEPTEMBER 15, 2008 teachers, and consumers will be invited to endowment levels and increase award participate in the event. amounts. Currently, EF awards more than Please send all articles, $32,000 annually in amounts from $1000 to As Linda Mariani, FIFDA, EF Chair, explains, photographs, etc. to Rose Gilbert at $2500. "Every chapter will be invited to get involved [email protected] in this exciting project, which will be national By Bonnie L. Peterson, FIFDA, in scope, and will create great PR opportuni- IFDA Educational Foundation ties, stimulate local support, and draw broad Vice Chair and Treasurer positive media attention to our association." ATTENTION IFDA CHAPTERS IRS Issues New nance when the new form is in use next year Form 990 Regulations (returns filed for the 2008 tax year). According to The Bureau of National Affairs IRS Exempt Organizations Division advises (BNA), an organization’s “no” answer to the IN THE that a “no” answer to some of the new question of whether it had a conflict of policy questions on the newly revised Form interest policy in place would not be an SPOTLIGHT: 990 would not automatically trigger an automatic trigger for an audit. But the audit, but it will help the Service form a more Service will look at all those answers to complete picture about a group’s compli- • Want to be featured in an governance questions in conjunction with ance with not-for-profit rules. upcoming issue of the other information on the form to determine The revamped Form 990, released in Decem- whether follow-up is needed. The IRS could Network? ber, requests more detailed information use information reported on the new form • Do you have a member you about compensation, governance and to begin new compliance check projects. would like to highlight? political activities, among other things. The IRS has recently gathered public • Have an event that you’d like to Though it admittedly lacks explicit statutory comment on the draft instructions for filing authority to scrutinize a tax-exempt share the outcome of? the new Form 990, and is expected to organization’s governance, the IRS has said release final instructions before the end of Send all information to Rose Gilbert firmly that it believes good governance the year. Chapters with questions on the practices lead to greater compliance. The IRS at [email protected] and new forms and filing requirements are is still determining how it will use new data watch for your Chapter Profile to invited to contact IFDA Headquarters for in areas such as compensation and gover- additional information and assistance. be published in an upcoming issue of the IFDA Network.

WHAT’S THE STORY IN THE CHAPTERS? SPOTLIGHT ON THE IFDA PHILADELPHIA CHAPTER In each coming Network Newsletter, we’ll be profiling one of the IFDA’s 17 national Chapters. There is no better place to network with your peers, make new friends, secure marketing opportunities, learn about new developments in the industry and maximize the value of your membership than in the most established professional trade association dedicated to the design and furnishings industry. This month, we check in on what IFDA members in the Philadelphia Chapter have been up to. These photos from Chapter president Janet Stevenson of Closet City, Ltd., show just some of the events that members have not only been able to take advantage of, but also had have fun in the process.

Marketing guru, celebrated author and sought after speaker Michael Port shares his secrets with IFDA members at the vendor show. The inspiring presentation was slightly irreverent, very funny, amazingly knowledgeable, compassionate and passionate. Michael Port hit his mark every time and left members a little smarter, much more alive, and thinking a heck of a lot bigger about who they are and what they offer the world. Chapter members Ellen Cohen and David Ashe (right) got some “up close and personal” time with Michael and his assistant after the session. We’ll be watching to see if any of the extra time rubbed off on Ellen and David!

Alan and Norka Kagel opened one of their amazing Inkas Hands showrooms in Philadelphia to IFDA Chapter members. The design, creation and commercialization of decorative accessories, artwork, jewelry and textiles came to life as members learned how to incorporate these many qualitative lines of items into residential and commercial settings.

WHAT’S THE STORY IN THE CHAPTERS? SPOTLIGHT ON THE IFDA PHILADELPHIA CHAPTER

Since the launching of the Moshulu (pronounced Mo-shoe'-loo) in 1904, she has had a long and exciting career on the seas working the ports of Europe, South America, Australia, America and Africa. She was confiscated by the Americans in one war and by the Germans in the next. She has traveled around Cape Horn 54 times. In lesser days, she has served as a floating warehouse. In grander days, she won the last great grain race in 1939. Today, the Moshulu is the largest four-masted sailing ship in the world still afloat. But perhaps her greatest day was when she was graced with the presence of the Philadelphia Chapter’s Dessert event, meeting and social networking party!

Networking, wine, friendship, wine, hamburg- ers, wine…all were in rare form – or “medium well” if you’d prefer – as IFDA National President Dave Gilbert and First Lady Hiroko Gilbert opened their home a few weeks ago to Philadel- phia Chapter members for a barbeque to beat all barbeques. Dave’s next door neighbor is a nationally recognized grill master. Between the fellowship, food and drink, the event was an epicurean delight.

So what’s your Chapter been up to? Send us any stories, photos, member profiles and updates for inclusion in upcoming issues of the IFDA’s Network. There’s no better way to share your success and ideas with other IFDA members. Send all information to IFDA Executive Director Martha Heinze at: [email protected] today!

We the Furnishers and Designers of the International Furnishings and Design Association, in order to form a more perfect union, establish mutually beneficial business partnerships and friendships, insure the ability to network among one another and to share common challenges and opportunities, foster domestic tranquility and the promotion of the IFDA’s 17 Chapters across our Nation, provide for the common education and sharing of knowledge, experiences, scholarships and grants to advance the sustainability of our profession, promote the general welfare, declare our “inter-dependence” and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our prosperity, do ordain and establish this Constitution… and provide advance notice of the IFDA’s 62nd National Conference in the City of Philadelphia, in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, September 24 – 26, 2009. Don’t miss being part of this “historic” event! Mark your calendars today.

IFDA 2008 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

President Treasurer Director at Large Director at Large Dave Gilbert Resa Farmer Teresa Burnett Karen C. Wirrig, FIFDA PHILADELPHIA GEORGIA NEW ENGLAND ARIZONA Hi-Fi Sales Company Southeast Interiors Willow Designs, Inc. Karen Cole Designs [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Educational Foundation Immediate Past Treasurer President Elect Director at Large Chair Lana Seagren Gail Belz Ellen Cohen Linda Mariani ARIZONA N CALIFORNIA PHILADELPHIA NEW ENGLAND Verve Interiors [email protected] Interior Possibilities The Weston Studio of [email protected] [email protected] Interior Design [email protected] Immediate Past President Director at Large Judith Clark-Janofsky, FIFDA Jacqueline Becker Director at Large N CALIFORNIA NEW ENGLAND Rose Gilbert, FIFDA Judith Clark Design DBA: Jacqueline Becker Fine NEW YORK Design Elements Arts Consulting Services RGB Communications [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

IFDA 2008 COUNCIL OF PRESIDENTS

ARIZONA CHAPTER GEORGIA CHAPTER MINNESOTA CHAPTER PHILADELPHIA CHAPTER Karen Sugarman M. Claudette Grayson Sheran Neumann Janet Stevenson Karen Sugarman Interiors G4G Consulting Neu Designs Closet City Ltd. [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] ILLINOIS CHAPTER RICHMOND CHAPTER BALTIMORE CHAPTER Catherine Simon-Vobornik N. CALIFORNIA CHAPTER Jennifer Stoner M. Constance Siegel Baird & Warner Dana Walsh Mosaic Interiors, Inc. Mill Town Design [email protected] Your Design Coach [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] MICHIGAN CHAPTER TEXAS CHAPTER CO-PRESIDENT Serena Cole CAROLINAS CHAPTER NEW ENGLAND CHAPTER Susan Arnold Duxiana Annette Lane Wayne Southworth Sue Arnold Interiors [email protected] Annette Lane Interiors MWI Enterprises Fiber Shield [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] WASHINGTON CHAPTER MICHIGAN CHAPTER Ross Hunter FLORIDA CHAPTER CO-PRESIDENT NEW YORK CHAPTER Phone: 301-738-1018 Myra Schwartz Joan Engle Maureen Klein Fax: 301-738-1043 Myra R. Schwartz Associates Designs By Joan, LLC Creative Design Services [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

IFDA NETWORK SUGGESTIONS? You’ve heard from us – now it’s your turn. We love feedback, so SUMMER 2008 EDITION please let us know your thoughts on this issue of the IFDA’s “Network.” Did you like it? Were the articles of interest and Editor in Chief...... Rose Gilbert value to you? Is the newsletter too long, too short, or just President...... Dave Gilbert about right? Do you have any suggestions on articles or issues you’d like to hear more about? We’re already planning the Fall Executive Director ...... Martha Heinze and Winter issues, so please let us incorporate your ideas into Graphic Designer...... Mark Stackhouse the upcoming issues. Just like the IFDA and its members, Counsel ...... Bernd G. Heinze, Esq. the “Network” is getting better all the time. Please email us your comments to [email protected].

SUMMER 2008 | NETWORK 17