FOR 8-1

BOOKMARKS OFFER TIPS ON FIGHTING FRAUD

wd/lsb set 7/23 #746696

BLOOMFIELD, CONN. — The Federal Trade Commission (FYC) and the Professional Show Managers Association (PSMA) have jointly taken a step in educating the public about fraud in the world of antiques and collectibles.

A yearlong crusade, led by Nancy Johnson and Dordy Fontinel, board members of the PSMA, a nonprofit trade association, has resulted in the printing and mass distribution of bookmarks. Titled “Antiques, How to Shop Wisely,” the educational pieces give bullet points of information to be considered when shopping for antiques. When shopping for antiques and collectibles, ask the dealer, “How long have you been in business? How do you know any item is genuine, not fake or reproduction? What are your criteria for identifying the item? Will you give me a written guarantee that the item is authentic? What is your return policy?”

In addition, Johnson and Fontinel were successful in their request that consumer information on safely shopping for antiques and collectible be added to the FTC website. The two women spent nearly six months working with the FTC on the specific information that is now available. The recently posted article may be accessed by visiting the FTC.gov website.

PSMA also believes that the bookmarks will provide a convenient opportunity for anyone interested in educating the buying public and fighting the cause. PSMA encourages show promoters, dealers, shop and mall managers, club members and auctioneers to get involved; therefore, PSMA is offering the bookmarks at their cost.

To order bookmarks, send a check made payable to PSMA to the PSMA Offices, Attn: FTC Project, PO Box 30, Bloomfield CT 06002. The cost of the bookmarks, including Priority Mail, is $25 per 1,000 or a single package of 200 for $10.

For information, 515-262-6714 or 703-779-2800.