Well, here we go again, Skechers USA Inc. has agreed to pay $40 million dollars to settle charges by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) that the company promoted unfounded claims about their Shape-ups, Resistance Runner, Toners and Tone-ups shoes.

Skechers advertisements claimed that anyone who wore these shoes would lose weight, and tone muscles. Because of these over-hyped advertising claims, purchasers of these shoes maybe eligible for a refund and can now submit a claim online.

Read the FTC consumer fraud press release about the Skechers case for details.

So…Is this a trend for advertisers and businesses or has profit created an opportunity to push the envelope of reason. Well, In my opinion, we all need take control of our own actions and be smart shoppers. Being a little skeptical when evaluating advertising claims is good.

If the claims or promises in ads sound to-good-to-be true, then err on the side of caution. Pause, assess and think before you act. It may help you avoid deception.

Below is a list of recent FTC consumer protection cases:

View of a cluttered closet

Spring has finally arrived and it is a great time to start cleaning. If you are like most of the population, myself included. You’ll find that we all tend to collect too much stuff over time. We acquire things for all kinds of reasons, from emotional to practical ones, but holding on to things past their usefulness can be harmful. Really you say?

The answer is absolutely! Just look at “Hoarders“, a television series on the A&E network, focused entirely on hording and the issues it causes. Watch one episode and you will forever be changed.

So, are there any areas in your home or office that need reorganizing?

It might be a room “packed to the gills”, a garage or even that over-stuffed drawer in the kitchen that refuses to close. Whatever the reason, now is the time to seize the moment and start making positive changes in your life.

As a designer and Feng Shui consultant, I often remind my clients that the first step to an improved space is “Clearing the clutter.” By weeding out the excess, we are making room for something new in our lives. The simple act of cleaning out a drawer or getting rid of those unused “When I get thin” clothes, will move the energy that has been stagnate. It’s like taking a morning walk on your favorite outdoor trail or sipping a warm drink on a chilly day.

Why not donate your excess to a favorite charity! With so many people in need, there are plenty of local organizations that would gladly accept your contributions. Here are a few of our local Alaska favorites Catholic Social Services, Bishop’s Attic, Salvation Army or The Arc of Anchorage.

By helping others, we are also helping ourselves. Get started today!

Subaru "Work Play Love" tour celebrates the balance of work and play. (PRNewsFoto/Subaru of America, Inc.)

Speaking for myself, it is very easy to forget about eating, family and life in general when you are at work. You all know the feel…getting so involved, staring at the computer, wrapping your thoughts around solving your clients problems. Hours upon hours without a single break, its like a trance. I do it, and I am sure you do too. But at what cost?

I personally love the outdoors, exercise and play. It is essential if you live in Alaska. Land of the midnight sun, open spaces and fresh air. I also love XC skiing, biking or walking with my digital camera whenever I can. This year and beyond, I am making a considerable effort to go outside, explore and play. And now other companies are doing the same.

I recently read about a program that Subaru of America introduced called “Subaru Work Play Love tour”. A program developed to recognize and invite other companies and their employees to break the chain and get outside and play. Their program is a mix of demonstrations, outdoor games and giveaways supported by a branding campaign to promote their 2012 Impreza. Read Subaru’s press release.

Heck even if it’s part of an ad campaign. Who wouldn’t want to take a break and have a some fun. That’s a benefit we can all appreciate! I certainly do and getting outdoors is an essential component for my creative soul. Go Play!

Elizabeth Keckley, ca. 1818-1907

Elizabeth Keckley, born a slave in Virgina, rose to become an historic African American dressmaker for the White House during the 19th century. Mrs. Keckley designed and created dresses for Mary Todd Lincoln, the wives of Robert E. Lee, Stephen Douglas, Jefferson Davis and others.

In celebration of International Women’s Day and conclude Black History month.
3/01/12 Jackie Ormes
2/22/12 Elizabeth “Tex” Williams
2/16/12 Eslanda G. Robeson

Source: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

© This work is the property of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. It may be used freely by individuals for research, teaching and personal use as long as this statement of availability is included in the text.

Jackie Ormes (1911-1985) From the Collection of Judie Miles

Ms. Jackie Ormes, born Zelda Marvin Jackson was a pioneer African American artists famous for her comic strip series, “Torchy Brown”, “Candy” and “Patti-Jo ’n Ginger”. Her illustrated stories provided a positive and critical viewpoint of America during the 30′s, 40′s and 50′s.

Other articles: CNN.com, NYTimes.com, NPR & Jackie Ormes site

To celebrate Black History, each week we will be featuring famous African American women.
2/22/12 Elizabeth “Tex” Williams
2/16/12 Eslanda G. Robeson

Elizabeth “Tex” Williams born in 1924, was an official army photographer in the WAC (Women’s Army Corp). Her 26 year career included lab technician, medical photographer and graduate of the Photo Division School in Fort Monmouth, New Jersey.

To celebrate Black History, each week we will be featuring famous African American women.
2/16/12 Eslanda G. Robeson

Eslanda Goode Robeson, portrait Creator/Contributor: Daily News (Los Angeles, Calif. : firm), Publisher

Eslanda (“Essie”) Goode Robeson, (December 12, 1896 – December 13, 1965) the wife and business manager of Paul Robeson, was an American anthropologist, author, actor, photographer and activist.

References: Wikipedia   Portrait source: Calisphere

To celebrate Black History, each week we will be featuring famous African American women.

Check out this wonderful short film about the letterpress at Plymouth University, featuring Paul Collier in the U.K. Upside Down, Left To Right: A Letterpress Film from Danny Cooke on Vimeo.

Check out the HOME Poster Show video by our friends at the Nerland Agency. The show celebrates local artists and will raise funds for United Way’s Walk for Warmth program.

Join us opening night and purchase one of our thirteen limited edition posters.
Admission is FREE! Only 60 dollars each.

First Friday, February 3, 2012
Snow City Café
Doors open at 5:30pm

Wishing all of you a safe and happy holiday season. Many thanks for supporting
Red Carrot Design. Lots of love, Cary & Jill!