Publisher's Note | Calendar of Events | Retailers Welcome Signing of Bill...
Effects of a Late Easter | Innovations & Inspirations | Problem Solvers

Retailers Welcome Signing of Bill to
Block Merchandise Counterfeiting

WASHINGTON D.C., - The National Retail Federation today welcomed the signing of legislation intended to close a major loophole in federal law against the counterfeiting of consumer goods.

"Current law contains a loophole literally big enough to drive a truckload of counterfeit goods through," NRF Vice President for Loss Prevention Joseph LaRocca said. "This new law will close that loophole and protect U.S. consumers from counterfeits that can range from cheap imitations of designer apparel to unsafe formula that threatens the health of infants."

"Counterfeit goods have infiltrated every part of our country, just like organized retail crime," LaRocca said. "Counterfeiting costs America hundreds of billions of dollars and has harmful effects throughout the economy. Fake products aren't just a rip-off for consumers who've paid hard-earned money for what they think is a brand-name product. They also expose consumers to serious health and safety risks in products as diverse as infant formula, toiletries, auto parts and power tools. Furthermore, many of these goods are sold on street corners or eFenced through Internet auction sites, depriving government of the tax revenues needed for law enforcement. The Stop Counterfeiting in Manufactured Goods Act gives us a powerful new tool to bring counterfeiting to an end."

President Bush on March 16 signed H.R. 32, the Stop Counterfeiting in Manufactured Goods Act, sponsored by Representative Joe Knollenberg, R-Mich. The legislation, which first passed the House last May, won final passage this month after the House agreed to an amendment passed in the Senate in February.

Under current law, the manufacture and distribution of counterfeit labels and packaging intended to accompany counterfeit products is legal as long as the labels haven't been attached to the bogus products. The new law closes that loophole, making it illegal to traffic in counterfeit labels, patches, stickers, hangtags and similar items regardless of whether they have been attached to products. Counterfeit labeling materials that are seized could be required to be destroyed, and equipment used to make them would be forfeited, along with assets derived from counterfeiting. Those convicted would be required to make restitution to the owners of the trademarks involved.

Enactment of the bill comes at a time when unauthorized imitations of apparel, handbags, accessories and other general retail merchandise are costing U.S. companies an increasing amount in lost sales each year. The FBI has estimated losses due to counterfeit goods at $250 billion annually.

The National Retail Federation is the world's largest retail trade association, with membership that comprises all retail formats and channels of distribution including department, specialty, discount, catalog, Internet, independent stores, chain restaurants, drug stores and grocery stores as well as the industry's key trading partners of retail goods and services. NRF represents an industry with more than 1.4 million U.S. retail establishments, more than 23 million employees - about one in five American workers - and 2005 sales of $4.4 trillion. As the industry umbrella group, NRF also represents more than 100 state, national and international retail associations. www.nrf.com.

LATE EASTER PROVES TO BE FACTOR IN POSITIVE APRIL RETAIL SALES, ACCORDING TO NRF

--Apparel Spending Helps Year-over-Year Gains--

Washington D.C., May 11, 2006 - Consumers shook off high prices at the pump last month as retailers saw positive gains across the board. According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), retail industry sales for April (which exclude automobiles, gas stations, and restaurants) rose a solid 6.9 percent over last year and increased 0.1 percent seasonally adjusted over March.

"Thanks in part to a late Easter holiday, consumers were out shopping for a variety of merchandise, including spring apparel," said NRF Chief Economist Rosalind Wells. "Although sales in the first half of the year have been stronger than expected, NRF will continue to monitor energy costs and the housing market to determine their impact on spending in the second half."

April retail sales released today by the U.S. Commerce Department show that total retail sales (which include non-general merchandise categories such as autos, gasoline stations and restaurants) increased 0.5 percent seasonally adjusted from March and increased 6.6 percent unadjusted year-over-year.

Many retailers continued to see strong year-over-year growth, benefiting from a late Easter and favorable weather conditions. General merchandise stores saw healthy gains, with sales increasing 8.1 percent unadjusted over last year. Clothing and clothing accessories stores sales were also strong, rising an unyielding 7.2 percent unadjusted from last April. Health and personal care stores were among the top retail performers with a 6.4 percent increase and sporting goods, hobby, book & music stores were another bright spot, increasing 6.1 percent unadjusted from last year.

The National Retail Federation is the world 's largest retail trade association, with membership that comprises all retail formats and channels of distribution including department, specialty, discount, catalog, Internet, independent stores, chain restaurants, drug stores and grocery stores as well as the industry 's key trading partners of retail goods and services. NRF represents an industry with more than 1.4 million U.S. retail establishments, more than 23 million employees - about one in five American workers - and 2005 sales of $4.4 trillion. As the industry umbrella group, NRF also represents more than 100 state, national and international retail associations. www.nrf.com.

Innovations & Inspirations

Unique Industries is proud to unveil its new Disney Gift Boxes. An exclusive product offered by Unique with other innovative surprises coming later this year...

Tinkerbelle Sparkle, Flying Buzz, Nemo & Friends, Pooh & Friends, Pooh & Piglet, Gazing Princess, Cinderella & Princesses, Princesses Gathering, Magical Mickey & Friends, Mickey & Friends

Large enough to package a sweater, shirts, blouse, books, stationery, jewelry, small jacket, small toy, etc.

Assembled size: 13.5 " H x 9" W x 3" D.
Suggested retail $1.59+

Something new and UNIQUE to offer your customers.

Reaction at the Chicago Party Show was awesome and order commitments coming in steadily.

Product and samples available soon.

Unique Industries, Inc.
National Accts. Mgr.-
Specialty Balloon Distributor Division
Ph.# 856-988-8265, Fax: 856-988-7446

THE PHILADELPHIA GIFT SHOW IS HEADING TO READING:
JULY 23-26, 2006 PHILADELPHIA GIFT SHOW RELOCATES FROM FORT WASHINGTON TO READING, PA AREA

ATLANTA, GA - In response to the recently announced closure of the Fort Washington Expo Center, Urban Expositions will relocate the Philadelphia Gift Show to the new Greater Reading Expo Center for the July 23-26, 2006 edition. Located in the heart of Eastern Pennsylvania's metropolitan areas, the new site offers a convenient alternative for the 10- year-old show's loyal attendee base, as well as the opportunity to attract even more retailers from the state of Pennsylvania and throughout the Mid- Atlantic and Tri-State regions.

The center also has over 4,000 on-site parking spaces located conveniently to the main entrance. Strategically located in Bucks County, the Greater Reading Expo Center offers easy highway or air transportation for current and prospective attendees.

As the largest regional gift show in the country, the Philadelphia Gift Show has gained a reputation over the years for its casual, customer friendly atmosphere. Featuring more than 1,300 booths showcasing product in every category, the Philadelphia Gift Show has continued to attract a growing audience of retailers from throughout the Mid-Atlantic region who come to explore the offerings from the region's top sales representatives, established lines and innovative newcomers. The July edition will expand to 1,400 booths.

In addition to product, attendees will have the chance to take advantage of free educational seminars and a host of special buyer incentives including goody bag giveaways, a free show party and more.

Show Hours:
Sunday, July 23 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Monday, July 24 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Tuesday, July 25 9 a.m. - 6 p.m
Wednesday, July 26 9 a.m. - 3 p.m

The January 2007 edition of the Philadelphia Gift Show is scheduled for January 6-9, 2007. For exhibitor information, contact Marilyn Anderson- McGriff, Urban Expositions, 1395 South Marietta Parkway, Building 400, Ste 210, Marietta, GA 30067. Phone -678.285.3976, fax - 678.285.7469, email: manderson@urban-expo.com. For show information or to pre-register, attendees call Stephanie Buice at 678.285.3976, email at sbuice@urbanexpo.com or visit www.urban-expo.com.

Urban Expositions is the leading producer of regional gift, souvenir and resort merchandise shows. Other Urban Expositions include the Grand Strand Gift & Resort Merchandise Show in Myrtle Beach, SC, East Coast Resort Gift Expo in Ocean City, MD, Miami Beach Gift Show and other shows in Orlando, FL, Las Vegas, NV, Virginia Beach, VA, Panama City, FL and Galveston, TX.

Great News, Cheryl&Co. is pleased to announce that Emily Kuhn has been promoted to your Account Manager! Emily's contact information is provided at the bottom of this message. Emily brings several years of retail experience to her position. Most recently, Emily has been providing sales and service support to our retail store division. Jim Merriman Business Gift Services Sales Manger Please contact Emily for any of your gifting needs. Emily Kuhn 800.433.1787 (ext.61575) ekuhn@cherylandco.com

CURLING RIBBON WITH FLASHING LED LIGHTS (Red, Blue, Green, Yellow, Orange) TWINKLE LIGHTS AND CLIP ATTACHED TO 4.5 FT OF CURLING RIBBON NO NEED FOR TYING BALLOON PRODUCT WEIGHS 4.5 GRAMS AND IS LIFTED BY A 11" BALLOON 5 LED LIGHTS THE SAME COLOR AS RIBBON LIGHT UP AND FLASH FOR 12 PLUS HOURS GREAT FOR DANCE FLOORS, CEILING SCATTERS, OR BALLOON ARRANGEMENTS INDIVIDUALLY PACKAGED SAMPLES AVAILABLE PLEASE NOTE NEW STYLE TWINKLE RIBBON AVAILABLE WITH HOLOGRAPHIC RIBBON (red, green, pink, purple, blue, silver)
	CALL 1800-783-8590 OR EMAIL SALES@WESTWINDS.COM HURRY WHILE SUPPLIES LAST!

Mark your calendars now to attend Ballooniversity 2006, hosted by burton + BURTON, July 28-29 in Athens, Georgia. You'll get two days of incredible learning from some of the best in the industry in classes and group activities all designed to help you grow your business! And this year's theme -- A World of Possibilities -- is certain to be globally appealing.

PRIZES
Take part in the Design Competition and you could be eligible for more than $15,000 in cash and prizes!

DECORATOR'S WORKSHOP
Gain valuable, hands-on event decor experience at the Decorator's Workshop, July 26-27. Those who attend will actually work on the decor for Ballooniversity's Saturday evening gala. Space is limited for the workshop, so be certain to make your reservations early.

To register and for more information, visit: www.ballooniversity.com.

	Lauderdale Paper & Balloon Co Summer Seminar Gift Basket & Balloon Seminar
Gift Basket Seminar (317712) Mary Ann Jacobs Tuesday, June 20th, at the Holiday Inn Includes Lunch, Limited Enrollment, 9AM to 3PM $69.00. Balloons 101 - Very, Very Beginner Class (317713) Mindy McCabe, CBA Tuesday Evening, 5:30-7:30, at Warehouse. No Charge for Balloon Seminar Attendees. Limited Enrollment (No Walk-ins). Balloon Seminar (317719) Gary Ledbetter, CBA, Debra Penny, CBA, Peggy Williams, Soraya Fonesca. Wednesday, June 21 and Thursday, June 22. $134.00 per person for two full days. Includes Lunch both days & Dinner Wednesday evening. Cancellation Policy: Full refund until May 20,2006. Holiday Inn (the seminar is being held at this hotel), 2905 Sheridan St. at I-95, Hollywood, Fl 33020. 954-925-9100 or 800-480-7623. $99.00 per night single or double occupancy (no charge for parking) or Days Inn 2601 N. 29th Ave at I-95 & Sheridan St. Hollywood, Fl 33020, 954-923-7300 or 800-593-0104. $89.00 per night single or double occupancy (no charge for parking). Includes breakfast. This hotel is across the street from the Holiday Inn. These rates are good until May 31, 2006. Please mention Lauderdale Paper Summer Seminar when making reservations. Sincerely, Steve Kornbluth
Gift Basket Seminar 2006 / Balloons 101 / Balloon Seminar 2006

Increase Autumn Sales with New Qualatex® Balloons

Halloween is one of the most exciting holidays for decorating. And, with new Halloween and fall balloons, party decor is easier than ever! Use designs from the Qualatex® Autumn Collection 2006 to boost profits and "wow" customers.

"Our products provide fresh ideas and feature popular icons on Microfoil‚ and complementary latex balloons," said Kathy Flynn, special projects director for Pioneer® Balloon Company, maker of Qualatex® balloons. "We offer designs to excite every customer."

Specialty Shapes Provide New Twists

Microfoil shapes are always popular, whether presented singly or in bouquets and decor.

• The ghostly 31" "Haunted House" Microfoil Shape is perfect for parties and deliveries for all ages!
• Add excitement to children's parties and events with the lively 35" "Party Jack & Bat" Microfoil Shape.
• The 23" Zinnia Microfoil Shape is now available in two fall-inspired colors, as "Yellow Zinnia" and "Orange Zinnia."

Assortments Add Flavor

Latex balloon assortments make ordering so much easier. Pair new Qualatex assortments with complementary Microfoil and you have an instant bouquet!

• The sweet "Candy, Treats, & Pumpkin Assortment" latex combines all of the treats - with none of the tricks!
• The latex "Ghost, Candy, & Webs Assortment" provides three popular images in one package.
• Mix the fun and the frightening with the "Treats, Mummy, & Bats Assortment" latex.
• Select two Halloween messages with the latex "Halloween Trick or Treat Assortment."

Unique Prints Add Excitement

Autumn is the time for many traditional figures, including ghosts, turkeys, and leaves. Use exclusive Qualatex prints to increase sales!

• The delightful two-sided "Boo! Ghost & Bat" latex is printed with a special four-color design!
• Sell the adorable "Happy Turkey Day" latex for kids' school and church parties.
• Decorate barbeques, fall festivals, and more with the colorful 18" "Fall/Thanksgiving" balloon by Party Express from Hallmark.
• Use the "Skull Face" latex design to coordinate with the "Pirate Skull & Cross Bones" latex for a pirate-themed party.

Retailers can download or request a FREE copy of the Qualatex Summer Collection 2006 catalog by visiting "Catalog Request" on Qualatex.com, calling 1-800-803-5498 or 316-685-2266, or contacting their Qualatex distributor.

Pioneer Balloon Company is the manufacturer of Qualatex brand latex and Microfoil balloons, the most recognized brand of balloons in the world. Retailers can visit Pioneer online at Qualatex.com.

Wow your customers with a bouquet featuring the playfully creepy 31" Qualatex® "Haunted House" Shape and "Ghost, Candy, & Webs Assortment" latex balloons. For more information, visit Qualatex.com or call 1-800-803-5498.

Delight children of all ages with the new 35" "Party Jack & Bat" by Qualatex®. It's perfect for single-balloon sales or bouquets. For more information, visit Qualatex.com or call 1-800-803-5498.

With the "Ghost, Candy, & Webs Assortment," you get three exclusive Qualatex® latex balloons in one package! Use to create balloon decor, or group them with Microfoil‚ balloons for a quick bouquet. For more information, visit Qualatex.com or call 1-800-803-5498.

The new 23" "Orange Zinnia" and Goldenrod Zinnia" use the Qualatex® Zinnia shape incorporate fall-inspired colors to make beautiful bouquets and decor. For more information, visit Qualatex.com or call 1-800-803-5498.

Transform any fall event with the 18" "Fall/Thanksgiving" Party Express from Hallmark balloon. The design captures the essence of autumn with an array of colored leaves for beautiful party decor.

Add a twist of fun to Halloween and pirate-themed parties with figures made with the updated 5" Qualatex® "Skull Face" latex balloon. For more information, visit Qualatex.com or call 1-800-803-5498.

Sell the adorable "Happy Turkey Day" Qualatex" latex balloon for kids' school and church parties. For more information, visit Qualatex.com or call 1-800-803-5498.

TransWorld's Halloween, Costume & Party Show Rosemont, IL

This international show is held annually at the Donald E Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL. This will be the 22nd year for this high-energy, action packed show.

LICENSED SINGING BALLOONS ARE HERE! Disney Princesses©, Elmo™, Tweety© and Pooh©! Adorable jumbo balloons that sing when you tap them. They sing in the voice of our favorite licensed characters! These 28" designs come individually packaged to hang on racks. Suggested retail is $12.99. Order in packs of five. To order, call The Balloon People at 800.285.4000.
28" Tweety© Birthday Plays: Tweety sings "Happy Birthday" #651664	28" Princess© Birthday Plays: A Disney Princess sings "Happy Birthday" #651671	28" Elmo™ Birthday Plays: Elmo™ sings "Happy Birthday" #651657	28" Pooh© Birthday Plays: Pooh sings "Happy Birthday" #651695
These designs were just released. Be the first in your area to offer them! Coming soon, Dora the Explorer!
Grow your business. Talk to The Balloon People. toll free 800-285-4000 fax 800-832-9872 www.usballoon.com

• most "benefit" statements are not descriptions of results for the listener or reader. They talk about products, services, and slogans, and,
• a benefit is only a benefit if the person hearing it perceives it as one at that very moment. I've often discussed the importance of your value statement over the past 23 years, and it's just as important (actually more important) today.