It's been a while since I have posted anything so I thought I would post a few news briefs.

• Asocolfores (association of Colombian growers) and SAF have teamed up to provide funeral directors a monthly reminder to remove "In Lieu of Flowers" from obits.
• The cost of foliage imported from Europe is likely to increase if a new duty of 100% takes affect in retaliation to the European duty on US beef.
• Miss Manners a columnist in many US papers was asked if it was ok to send flowers to someone who had just had a miscarriage. Her answer was flowers along with a card may be the best way of showing your sympathy for their loss. 
• Inattentive clerks who yammer away with each other while oblivious to customers topped the list of Americana's top in-store pet peeves, according to a multi-client resent Gallup Poll.
• Every Blooming Thing of Salt Lake City was the recipent of the seventh annual Retail Florist of the Year award, sponsored by WF&FSA and Florists' Review.
• Average Wedding Costs Down-Floral Centerpieces Up. First quarter of 2009 survey conducted by "The Wedding Report" show that the average cost of a wedding has dipped another 12% to $19,219. The three biggest factors were - Decrease in demand of products and services - Couples choosing to marry via JP or non traditional means &Consolidation of ceremony and reception. The good news is that the amount of money spent on reception table and centerpieces increased. 
• Mark your calenders for September 27th The Portland Flower Market Fall Open House. This year we will have a special siminar for Owners and Managers as well as the Design Progams. The Siminar will be presented by Smithers Oasis on the latest demographics of our industry and how to attract that business.