The Midwest GLITS show held in Chicago September 21 and 22. We had 20 companies attend the show to buy. The sales reps reported good interest and a lot of paper was written. The Chicago area show is different than the others, in that a lot of the buyers stay at the hotel and socialize with the reps and other store owners. It is a great place to get ideas on how other operators are doing and exchange ideas. I was given a great tip where to find suspenders I was looking for by another operator from Indiana. We also have a trade group in that area that works to buy many of the same things to support each other. This kind of camaraderie among store owners is pretty unique to the area.

The West Coast show held at Embassy Suites Anaheim was the 4th and 5th of October. We had 30 companies total by the end of the second day. This part of the country is filled with a lot of independent one store operations. They are working in that area to form a trade group to support each other, and a lunch meeting was held on Monday. Much like the rest of the country, operators spoke of doing very well in some areas yet really hurting in others.

The East Coast show was held at the Embassy Suites in Philadelphia on October 11 and 12th. We had a great list of vendors displaying and supporting this show as all the others, but the customers just didn’t come??? Please tell us what we did wrong??? Of the customers that did come, all were from an hour or more drive away. No one from the surrounding area attended! We are more than happy to listen to any suggestions for this and all of the shows. The IFA wants nothing more than success for the vendors who support us.

I asked vendors if among all the doom and gloom out there if they are doing well with any of their items for spring and was happy to read the results:

For Jean Yves/Formal Wear International, from Maurice Silva the following collections are what are HOT!
Illusion in Red NEW
Twilight Collection NEW
Illusion Black Diamond NEW
Beaded Trouser in Black White and Ivory

Still hot from last year:

Black Illusion
White Illusion
Mirage has a new life, after 10 successful years, we have added new images including targeting Quinces!

Supported by Salesmen Bill Davis for Jean Yves:
What I am selling in my territory to both wholesalers and retailers has been the following:
Coats:
Red illusion
Blk Jacquard
Blk Peak Twilight
Wht Peak Twilight
Ivory Peak Twilight
All colors in the Mirage.
A whole lot of our basic 1 and 2 button notch's
A whole lot of our new flat front pants.

Vests
Allure - all colors
Tango - customers are continuing to had more colors
Sterling - still several customers are adding more colors.
Fusion - Best solid collection in the business and customers are adding to this weekly.

Shoes - Our Newport shoe is the hit. I have sold this style to several customers.

Over all it's looking like it will be a pretty good selling season for me. We not only have the styles, but we also have the quality and price points.

Barclay’s Ken Marion states: “Best selling styles are.”
Radio City
Jazz Oxford
Jet
Celebration
Rik and Tyler

Frederico Leone, Ltd Greg Sharp says: “Our best new seller for 2010 is our Newport Slip-on shoes in Black,white,and ivory. 2nd is our new Twilight cap toe with fallie trim in Black on Black and Red on Black that goes so well with the new Jean Jyves Twilight Collection.”

After Six reports: El Rey everywhere black and white
Black Troy/Rhodes/Cyprus.Athens peak and notch because of the innovative styling, fit and design. Thank You John Galante
Falcon Black and White
Troy White and Ivory
Fact not Fiction: We are way ahead of last years sales even with the success of the La Strata last year which is still out performing everything on the selling floor today.
Bobby Lucarelli

Supported by Sales Reps. Jerry Mashman says: “Glad to report that we are doing very, very well with our new "ElRey" collection. Also, our new Aires vest colors are doing great! Our Microfiber shirt business (both the old CSS and the old Ascot) are both ahead of last year.”

Bob Milam: “After Six Luxe Microfiber shirts provide formalwear stores a great opportunity to increase their average rental transaction. Our most popular styles continue to sell well for spring 2010. Bob (plain front lay-down) in white, ivory & black - Mark & Nick (1/4" pleat) lay-down and wing in white & ivory - Whisper (subtle pin stripe lay-down) white, ivory & black. Get our best delivery by ordering today.”

NOTES FROM FCGI.....

Formalwear ....

The Waldorf 11 by Joseph Abboud Black Tie, a 1B notch in Super 120's fabrication is one of our hottest coats going into this season. In addition to a slightly narrower 2 7/8" label, the Waldorf 11 also features side vents and is included in FCGI new pricing structure for Joseph Abboud.

The Croydon in Oxford Grey by Joseph Abboud Black Tie: We hit the nail on the head with this mid-season addition. Brides everyone are responding well to The Croydon's darker shade of grey and it subtle fabric texture.

The Essentials: Basic formalwear is "in" at FCGI this season with the launch of our complete collection of The Essentials. 2B Notch in both black and white, 1B Notch, 1B Peak, & 1B Shawl in both black and well. This resurggence is due in no small part to Fabian's unique "Comfort Armhole Construction." Featured in all FCGI Formalwear this season (including Abboud)...the armhole is a slam dunk when it comes to the unique fitting requirements required of rental
formalwear. Two and 1/2 to three additional inches of flexibility on both sides
of the coat in the shoulder and chest area.

The Essentials Program also includes the FCGI basic shirt program. Updated to include features such as Comfort Collar, longer bib front, while at the same time maintaining the "best in the industry fit."

Accessories

The Berkeley Collection by Joseph Abboud.

Winner of the "Best in Show" award at the IFA Show in Las Vegas, The Berkeley is a blend of the old and new. A unique coordinating plaid tie that takes its cues from the plaids that are prevalent in fashion today, combined with a definitive, yet subtle, pattern for the vest have made this program our runaway winner.

Ultra-Soft Prima Microfiber Shirt Collection by Joseph Abboud.

The market asked for it, we made it, and they responded. Available in White, Ivory and Black in plain front, look for pleated and wing collar styles in the very near future. And at a competitive price point!

Formal Footwear..

Fabian's S105, 5 eyelet Moc Toe Overlay in a Black Matte Finish is on fire this season. Both fashionable and understated, combined the S106 Patent finish are two of the hottest shoes in the market.

Career Apparel.

Our water resistant/stain resistant black poly continues to be the gold standard in both the Performance Apparel and Career Apparel Markets. Another "Best in Industry" for fit and quality.

Having new product even if not multiple lines of accessories and coat styles is essential to keep sales staff excited about what they have to offer customers. Many of the smaller operators I had the chance to talk to at all of the shows are adding colors to existing programs and buying new styles in slightly smaller runs. One single store operator on the west coast stated that he always buys at least one vest line and coat style each year and this year was no different! I had one salesmen say this is going to be another LONG season that will stretch to prom season next spring. If all of your buying decisions have not yet been made, I am sure these guys would be happy to talk to you!!

The Midwest GLITS show held in Chicago September 21 and 22. We had 20 companies attend the show to buy. The sales reps reported good interest and a lot of paper was written. The Chicago area show is different than the others, in that a lot of the buyers stay at the hotel and socialize with the reps and other store owners. It is a great place to get ideas on how other operators are doing and exchange ideas. I was given a great tip where to find suspenders I was looking for by another operator from Indiana. We also have a trade group in that area that works to buy many of the same things to support each other. This kind of camaraderie among store owners is pretty unique to the area.

The West Coast show held at Embassy Suites Anaheim was the 4th and 5th of October. We had 30 companies total by the end of the second day. This part of the country is filled with a lot of independent one store operations. They are working in that area to form a trade group to support each other, and a lunch meeting was held on Monday. Much like the rest of the country, operators spoke of doing very well in some areas yet really hurting in others.

The East Coast show was held at the Embassy Suites in Philadelphia on October 11 and 12th. We had a great list of vendors displaying and supporting this show as all the others, but the customers just didn’t come??? Please tell us what we did wrong??? Of the customers that did come, all were from an hour or more drive away. No one from the surrounding area attended! We are more than happy to listen to any suggestions for this and all of the shows. The IFA wants nothing more than success for the vendors who support us.

I asked vendors if among all the doom and gloom out there if they are doing well with any of their items for spring and was happy to read the results:

For Jean Yves/Formal Wear International, from Maurice Silva the following collections are what are HOT!
Illusion in Red NEW
Twilight Collection NEW
Illusion Black Diamond NEW
Beaded Trouser in Black White and Ivory

Still hot from last year:

Black Illusion
White Illusion
Mirage has a new life, after 10 successful years, we have added new images including targeting Quinces!

Supported by Salesmen Bill Davis for Jean Yves:
What I am selling in my territory to both wholesalers and retailers has been the following:
Coats:
Red illusion
Blk Jacquard
Blk Peak Twilight
Wht Peak Twilight
Ivory Peak Twilight
All colors in the Mirage.
A whole lot of our basic 1 and 2 button notch's
A whole lot of our new flat front pants.

Vests
Allure - all colors
Tango - customers are continuing to had more colors
Sterling - still several customers are adding more colors.
Fusion - Best solid collection in the business and customers are adding to this weekly.

Shoes - Our Newport shoe is the hit. I have sold this style to several customers.

Over all it's looking like it will be a pretty good selling season for me. We not only have the styles, but we also have the quality and price points.

Barclay’s Ken Marion states: “Best selling styles are.”
Radio City
Jazz Oxford
Jet
Celebration
Rik and Tyler

Frederico Leone, Ltd Greg Sharp says: “Our best new seller for 2010 is our Newport Slip-on shoes in Black,white,and ivory. 2nd is our new Twilight cap toe with fallie trim in Black on Black and Red on Black that goes so well with the new Jean Jyves Twilight Collection.”

After Six reports: El Rey everywhere black and white
Black Troy/Rhodes/Cyprus.Athens peak and notch because of the innovative styling, fit and design. Thank You John Galante
Falcon Black and White
Troy White and Ivory
Fact not Fiction: We are way ahead of last years sales even with the success of the La Strata last year which is still out performing everything on the selling floor today.
Bobby Lucarelli

Supported by Sales Reps. Jerry Mashman says: “Glad to report that we are doing very, very well with our new "ElRey" collection. Also, our new Aires vest colors are doing great! Our Microfiber shirt business (both the old CSS and the old Ascot) are both ahead of last year.”

Bob Milam: “After Six Luxe Microfiber shirts provide formalwear stores a great opportunity to increase their average rental transaction. Our most popular styles continue to sell well for spring 2010. Bob (plain front lay-down) in white, ivory & black - Mark & Nick (1/4" pleat) lay-down and wing in white & ivory - Whisper (subtle pin stripe lay-down) white, ivory & black. Get our best delivery by ordering today.”

NOTES FROM FCGI.....

Formalwear ....

The Waldorf 11 by Joseph Abboud Black Tie, a 1B notch in Super 120's fabrication is one of our hottest coats going into this season. In addition to a slightly narrower 2 7/8" label, the Waldorf 11 also features side vents and is included in FCGI new pricing structure for Joseph Abboud.

The Croydon in Oxford Grey by Joseph Abboud Black Tie: We hit the nail on the head with this mid-season addition. Brides everyone are responding well to The Croydon's darker shade of grey and it subtle fabric texture.

The Essentials: Basic formalwear is "in" at FCGI this season with the launch of our complete collection of The Essentials. 2B Notch in both black and white, 1B Notch, 1B Peak, & 1B Shawl in both black and well. This resurggence is due in no small part to Fabian's unique "Comfort Armhole Construction." Featured in all FCGI Formalwear this season (including Abboud)...the armhole is a slam dunk when it comes to the unique fitting requirements required of rental
formalwear. Two and 1/2 to three additional inches of flexibility on both sides
of the coat in the shoulder and chest area.

The Essentials Program also includes the FCGI basic shirt program. Updated to include features such as Comfort Collar, longer bib front, while at the same time maintaining the "best in the industry fit."

Accessories

The Berkeley Collection by Joseph Abboud.

Winner of the "Best in Show" award at the IFA Show in Las Vegas, The Berkeley is a blend of the old and new. A unique coordinating plaid tie that takes its cues from the plaids that are prevalent in fashion today, combined with a definitive, yet subtle, pattern for the vest have made this program our runaway winner.

Ultra-Soft Prima Microfiber Shirt Collection by Joseph Abboud.

The market asked for it, we made it, and they responded. Available in White, Ivory and Black in plain front, look for pleated and wing collar styles in the very near future. And at a competitive price point!

Formal Footwear..

Fabian's S105, 5 eyelet Moc Toe Overlay in a Black Matte Finish is on fire this season. Both fashionable and understated, combined the S106 Patent finish are two of the hottest shoes in the market.

Career Apparel.

Our water resistant/stain resistant black poly continues to be the gold standard in both the Performance Apparel and Career Apparel Markets. Another "Best in Industry" for fit and quality.

Having new product even if not multiple lines of accessories and coat styles is essential to keep sales staff excited about what they have to offer customers. Many of the smaller operators I had the chance to talk to at all of the shows are adding colors to existing programs and buying new styles in slightly smaller runs. One single store operator on the west coast stated that he always buys at least one vest line and coat style each year and this year was no different! I had one salesmen say this is going to be another LONG season that will stretch to prom season next spring. If all of your buying decisions have not yet been made, I am sure these guys would be happy to talk to you!!

If we are going to work to deliver what the customer wants, we first must know where to start. Far too often, we feel we know what our customers think and want because -- well, we just know, that's all. Wrong! Businesses can't be successful if they don't continue to change as the needs of their customers evolve. There are few activities as important as finding out what your customers want for products and services and finding out what they think of yours. Fortunately, there are a variety of methods that businesses can use to get information from current customers.

The methods you choose and how you use them depend on what type of feedback you want from customers:

Employees
Your employees are the people who interact the most with your customers. Ask them about the products and services that customers ask for. Also, ask your employees about what customers complain about.

Comment Cards
Provide brief, half-page comment cards to the customer that ask basic questions such as: Are you satisfied with our services? How could we provide better service? Are there any services or products you did not find?

Competition
What is your competition offering? Ask people who may have shopped there. Start coaching your employees to notice what's going on with your competition.

Customers
One of the best ways to find out what customers want is to ask them. Talk to them when they visit your facility.

Documentation and Records
Notice what customers are using and not using. What is being requested you do not have? If you already know what customers are looking for, etc., then is this written down somewhere? It should be so that you don't forget, particularly during the spring buying season. Keep a notepad for employees to record colors and or styles that they are asked about. Check it regularly and ask for feedback.

Surveys by Mail
You might despise answering surveys, but many of people don't. People will fill out surveys especially if they get something in return.

Telephone Surveys
Hire students or part-time people for a few days every six months to do telephone surveys. Happy past customers can create your future.

In this competitive world, knowledge is power so arm yourself well!

If we are going to work to deliver what the customer wants, we first must know where to start. Far too often, we feel we know what our customers think and want because -- well, we just know, that's all. Wrong! Businesses can't be successful if they don't continue to change as the needs of their customers evolve. There are few activities as important as finding out what your customers want for products and services and finding out what they think of yours. Fortunately, there are a variety of methods that businesses can use to get information from current customers.

The methods you choose and how you use them depend on what type of feedback you want from customers:

Employees
Your employees are the people who interact the most with your customers. Ask them about the products and services that customers ask for. Also, ask your employees about what customers complain about.

Comment Cards
Provide brief, half-page comment cards to the customer that ask basic questions such as: Are you satisfied with our services? How could we provide better service? Are there any services or products you did not find?

Competition
What is your competition offering? Ask people who may have shopped there. Start coaching your employees to notice what's going on with your competition.

Customers
One of the best ways to find out what customers want is to ask them. Talk to them when they visit your facility.

Documentation and Records
Notice what customers are using and not using. What is being requested you do not have? If you already know what customers are looking for, etc., then is this written down somewhere? It should be so that you don't forget, particularly during the spring buying season. Keep a notepad for employees to record colors and or styles that they are asked about. Check it regularly and ask for feedback.

Surveys by Mail
You might despise answering surveys, but many of people don't. People will fill out surveys especially if they get something in return.

Telephone Surveys
Hire students or part-time people for a few days every six months to do telephone surveys. Happy past customers can create your future.

In this competitive world, knowledge is power so arm yourself well!

We thank our readers for all comments, and pass it along for all to share.

To: The IFA Board of Directors and Staff

Having been a member of the IFA for over 20 years, I have to tell you something. Gent's Formal Wear has seven stores in the Southeastern United States. In the past, we have only attended the annual conventions when they were held in the South. (New Orleans, Orlando, Nashville, etc) This year, at the age of 54, I decided to attend the Show in Las Vegas by myself. I have to say that this is the best location ever! This is the most affordable and fun convention I can ever remember. The Hilton location and rooms were fantastic at $69 per night. The convention floor is only a short walk from the rooms. The city has something to do for everyone (including the kids) and the people of Las Vegas were very friendly. The air conditioned monorail attached to the hotel made getting to the strip comfortable and convenient. I even won a few dollars at the tables to boot!

I'll be back next year and bring all 7 stores with me. Looking forward to the Hilton Las Vegas in 2010!

Sincerely,
Richard Crenshaw
Gent's Formal Wear
Franchise Director
Pensacola, Florida

We thank our readers for all comments, and pass it along for all to share.

To: The IFA Board of Directors and Staff

Having been a member of the IFA for over 20 years, I have to tell you something. Gent's Formal Wear has seven stores in the Southeastern United States. In the past, we have only attended the annual conventions when they were held in the South. (New Orleans, Orlando, Nashville, etc) This year, at the age of 54, I decided to attend the Show in Las Vegas by myself. I have to say that this is the best location ever! This is the most affordable and fun convention I can ever remember. The Hilton location and rooms were fantastic at $69 per night. The convention floor is only a short walk from the rooms. The city has something to do for everyone (including the kids) and the people of Las Vegas were very friendly. The air conditioned monorail attached to the hotel made getting to the strip comfortable and convenient. I even won a few dollars at the tables to boot!

I'll be back next year and bring all 7 stores with me. Looking forward to the Hilton Las Vegas in 2010!

Sincerely,
Richard Crenshaw
Gent's Formal Wear
Franchise Director
Pensacola, Florida

After Six, LLC is saddened to announce that Eric Plott has formally stepped-down as CEO.

When Eric Plott walked through the doors of After Six in April of 2008 as the new Chief Executive Officer, he brought with him integrity, professionalism and an extraordinary sense of determination. His main objective was to ensure that After Six would become and remain the forerunner in customer service and quality in the formalwear industry.

In Eric's farewell message to friends, staff and customers, he said "I just wanted to send a note of "THANKS" for the pleasure to work with you for the past 1 1/2 years. As a newcomer to the industry, you welcomed me with kindness and professionalism. I truly enjoyed my tenure as CEO of After Six, and I sincerely wish the very best for you, the company, and the Formal Wear Industry."

We will miss Eric and wish him all the best as he continues on his chosen path; we all know that it will be a successful one!

After Six, LLC is saddened to announce that Eric Plott has formally stepped-down as CEO.

When Eric Plott walked through the doors of After Six in April of 2008 as the new Chief Executive Officer, he brought with him integrity, professionalism and an extraordinary sense of determination. His main objective was to ensure that After Six would become and remain the forerunner in customer service and quality in the formalwear industry.

In Eric's farewell message to friends, staff and customers, he said "I just wanted to send a note of "THANKS" for the pleasure to work with you for the past 1 1/2 years. As a newcomer to the industry, you welcomed me with kindness and professionalism. I truly enjoyed my tenure as CEO of After Six, and I sincerely wish the very best for you, the company, and the Formal Wear Industry."

We will miss Eric and wish him all the best as he continues on his chosen path; we all know that it will be a successful one!

Businesses large and small have already been affected by the season’s outbreak and are wondering if they have legal responsibilities concerning the present flu outbreak. The CDC has released guidelines to keep in mind.
As presented by Business Management Daily HR Specialists CDC Guidelines.

The United States now faces a swine flu outbreak that has caused the government to declare a public health emergency. It’s important for employers to do their part to prevent influenza spread at work and consider what to do if the illness reaches pandemic status. If enough people become infected, it could seriously affect many employers’ operations.

You should be planning for a pandemic now. Properly implemented, it can help limit the flu’s impact on employee health—and the economic health of your organization.

A host of possible problems

It’s usually difficult to plan for a crisis and respond to it thoughtfully while it’s occurring. That’s why planning is so important. You’ll be able to act quickly should the need arise.

Because each business is unique, you must customize your pandemic plan to your particular workforce and business-continuity needs. However, several practical issues may affect almost every employer.
• Attendance could nosedive. Some employees may be unable to work because they are sick. Others may stay away from work because they fear becoming infected.
• The workplace might become contagious. Ill employees may insist on coming to work—because they need the income—even if they should stay home.
• Alternative work arrangements might be needed. You might need to consider having employees work remotely if authorities impose quarantines or employees refuse to or cannot come to your facilities. If you don’t already, consider cross-training employees to perform critical functions.
• Some employees may refuse to perform some of their regular duties because they fear being exposed to the flu. Those who travel frequently or attend large meetings may balk.
• Some employees may not seek health care for financial reasons or out of fear of exposure at the doctor’s office.
• Employees may need personal assistance. It might involve finding care for a sick relative. They may need help obtaining food, water or cash during a quarantine.
• Employees may be unable to focus on work (or work at all) due to the emotional fall-out of a pandemic. They may need time off, counseling or other assistance.

Your obligations as an employer

As they plan for a pandemic, employers face competing and complicated legal issues. Employers are legally obligated to provide a safe workplace. In the face of a pandemic, you may be liable if your infected employees spread the disease.

Your best defense will originate in the prevention and response measures you include in your pandemic plan. It should include:

• A communicable disease policy. Emphasize that employees with flu symptoms must not come to work.
• Employee education on how to prevent spreading the flu. Good hygiene is the key. Remind employees to cover their mouths when they cough and their noses when they sneeze. Throw out used tissues immediately. Wash hands frequently, or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Other measures to prevent the spread of disease at work. Employers can reduce the risk of workplace infection by providing air ventilation and purifying systems, restricting travel and implementing remote or other work arrangements to reduce personal contact.
Of course, there is no way to anticipate all contingencies, but an employer’s reasonableness often plays a key role in defending against legal claims.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers an online Business Pandemic Influenza Planning Checklist that can help you audit your readiness to deal with swine flu.

Employment law issues

Employers must balance their obligation to maintain a safe workplace with other legal obligations. Consult with your attorney for more advice on these important issues. The FMLA, ADA and other laws may apply here.

While you will want to make reasonable efforts to keep contagious workers home, disability laws may limit your right to ask employees about their medical conditions or require them to take medical exams. In addition, you must consider employees’ privacy rights and whether falsely accusing someone of having a pandemic flu could be defamatory.

Employers must also address their legal obligations to employees who must miss work for medical reasons. You may be legally obligated to provide leave and restore employees to their jobs when they return from leave.

Depending on the circumstances, employees may be entitled to worker’s compensation benefits, paid time off, disability or other paid benefits, continued health insurance or unemployment benefits.

As a practical matter, be prepared to voluntarily extend your time-off policies.

You might also want to consider voluntary, special pay policies designed to encourage contagious employees to stay home.

When an employee who isn’t protected by leave or disability law refuses to come to work out of fear, you may have to decide whether to grant the time off or terminate the employee. That decision has legal implications. Consider whether the employee is at-will, as well as the risk of other legal claims. In particular, OSHA law protects employees from retaliation if they refuse to work because of good-faith concerns about workplace safety.

It may seem easiest, particularly during these tough economic times, to defer planning for a pandemic that may not occur. Given the human stakes and the complexities involved in an actual pandemic, however, advance planning is critical to ensure a careful, thoughtful response.

The CDC's latest tips for employers:  
In August of 2009, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published new guidelines to help employers prepare for flu season and prevent the rapid spread of the H1N1 influenza.

The CDC encourages employers to:

• Consider offering vaccinations against seasonal flu and encourage employees to be vaccinated against H1N1 flu when that vaccine is released this fall.
• Encourage sick employees to stay home or leave immediately when feeling ill.
• Post information on proper hand hygiene in restrooms.
• Clean surfaces often that have frequent hand contact.
• Make sick-leave policies more flexible for workers who may have to stay home with sick family members or if a child’s school is closed.
• Weigh the benefits of cancelling nonessential face-to-face meetings and travel.

Businesses large and small have already been affected by the season’s outbreak and are wondering if they have legal responsibilities concerning the present flu outbreak. The CDC has released guidelines to keep in mind.
As presented by Business Management Daily HR Specialists CDC Guidelines.

The United States now faces a swine flu outbreak that has caused the government to declare a public health emergency. It’s important for employers to do their part to prevent influenza spread at work and consider what to do if the illness reaches pandemic status. If enough people become infected, it could seriously affect many employers’ operations.

You should be planning for a pandemic now. Properly implemented, it can help limit the flu’s impact on employee health—and the economic health of your organization.

A host of possible problems

It’s usually difficult to plan for a crisis and respond to it thoughtfully while it’s occurring. That’s why planning is so important. You’ll be able to act quickly should the need arise.

Because each business is unique, you must customize your pandemic plan to your particular workforce and business-continuity needs. However, several practical issues may affect almost every employer.
• Attendance could nosedive. Some employees may be unable to work because they are sick. Others may stay away from work because they fear becoming infected.
• The workplace might become contagious. Ill employees may insist on coming to work—because they need the income—even if they should stay home.
• Alternative work arrangements might be needed. You might need to consider having employees work remotely if authorities impose quarantines or employees refuse to or cannot come to your facilities. If you don’t already, consider cross-training employees to perform critical functions.
• Some employees may refuse to perform some of their regular duties because they fear being exposed to the flu. Those who travel frequently or attend large meetings may balk.
• Some employees may not seek health care for financial reasons or out of fear of exposure at the doctor’s office.
• Employees may need personal assistance. It might involve finding care for a sick relative. They may need help obtaining food, water or cash during a quarantine.
• Employees may be unable to focus on work (or work at all) due to the emotional fall-out of a pandemic. They may need time off, counseling or other assistance.

Your obligations as an employer

As they plan for a pandemic, employers face competing and complicated legal issues. Employers are legally obligated to provide a safe workplace. In the face of a pandemic, you may be liable if your infected employees spread the disease.

Your best defense will originate in the prevention and response measures you include in your pandemic plan. It should include:

• A communicable disease policy. Emphasize that employees with flu symptoms must not come to work.
• Employee education on how to prevent spreading the flu. Good hygiene is the key. Remind employees to cover their mouths when they cough and their noses when they sneeze. Throw out used tissues immediately. Wash hands frequently, or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Other measures to prevent the spread of disease at work. Employers can reduce the risk of workplace infection by providing air ventilation and purifying systems, restricting travel and implementing remote or other work arrangements to reduce personal contact.
Of course, there is no way to anticipate all contingencies, but an employer’s reasonableness often plays a key role in defending against legal claims.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers an online Business Pandemic Influenza Planning Checklist that can help you audit your readiness to deal with swine flu.

Employment law issues

Employers must balance their obligation to maintain a safe workplace with other legal obligations. Consult with your attorney for more advice on these important issues. The FMLA, ADA and other laws may apply here.

While you will want to make reasonable efforts to keep contagious workers home, disability laws may limit your right to ask employees about their medical conditions or require them to take medical exams. In addition, you must consider employees’ privacy rights and whether falsely accusing someone of having a pandemic flu could be defamatory.

Employers must also address their legal obligations to employees who must miss work for medical reasons. You may be legally obligated to provide leave and restore employees to their jobs when they return from leave.

Depending on the circumstances, employees may be entitled to worker’s compensation benefits, paid time off, disability or other paid benefits, continued health insurance or unemployment benefits.

As a practical matter, be prepared to voluntarily extend your time-off policies.

You might also want to consider voluntary, special pay policies designed to encourage contagious employees to stay home.

When an employee who isn’t protected by leave or disability law refuses to come to work out of fear, you may have to decide whether to grant the time off or terminate the employee. That decision has legal implications. Consider whether the employee is at-will, as well as the risk of other legal claims. In particular, OSHA law protects employees from retaliation if they refuse to work because of good-faith concerns about workplace safety.

It may seem easiest, particularly during these tough economic times, to defer planning for a pandemic that may not occur. Given the human stakes and the complexities involved in an actual pandemic, however, advance planning is critical to ensure a careful, thoughtful response.

The CDC's latest tips for employers:  
In August of 2009, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published new guidelines to help employers prepare for flu season and prevent the rapid spread of the H1N1 influenza.

The CDC encourages employers to:

• Consider offering vaccinations against seasonal flu and encourage employees to be vaccinated against H1N1 flu when that vaccine is released this fall.
• Encourage sick employees to stay home or leave immediately when feeling ill.
• Post information on proper hand hygiene in restrooms.
• Clean surfaces often that have frequent hand contact.
• Make sick-leave policies more flexible for workers who may have to stay home with sick family members or if a child’s school is closed.
• Weigh the benefits of cancelling nonessential face-to-face meetings and travel.

Offered For Sale by Trish’s Formal Affair
Oscar de la Renta Contour I 2Btn Coats All in Very Good Condition $25 a Coat or $20 each to take all!

$15 backless vest with bow tie (if avail) $10 each set to take all!
"Freedom"
"Citi Lites"
"Versailles"
"Sunsets"(All Backless) various colors.
Call for complete scales and further information:
985-543-0043 Ask for Trish
Thank You So Much!

For Sale Tuxedos By Lee
Style # if coats Price Condition
Black mandarin waist 30 coats $400 Good
Black Claiborne citiscape 37” 3 button 45 coats $900 Good
White Claiborne Notch 3 button 50 coats $400 Poor
White Claiborne Notch 5 button 65 coats $900 Good
White Claiborne Notch 36” 5 button 45 coats $600 Ok
White Lord West Notch Tail 30 coats $600 OK
White pants to match above coats 40 pants $400 OK
All above whites are c-itoh material

Have some colors available in the Raffinati shirts. Call for price.
Buyer pays for shipping. Questions or to order contact Lee at Tuxedos by Lee
tuxbylee@comcast.net or 801.916.3077
Bunny Tuxedo offers For Sale:
Tuxedos & matching accessories:
Black Double Breasted Jackets (shawl & notch)
Silver Spirit Jackets, Tail coats, pants, cummerbunds and bow ties
White Avante Shawl Double Breasted Jackets & Tail Coats
White Toulon Jackets & Tail Coats
White Shantung Dinner Jackets

Vest and Tie collections:
Celebrity Paisley full back vest, bow ties, and cravats in Black, White, Silver, Champagne, Sage, Heather, & Desert Blue
Fusion full back vest and bow ties (these are the original Fusion vests with the square pattern, not solid like the current fusion styles) in Black, White, Silver, Asphalt , & Red
Double take full back and backless vest and bow ties in Black, White, Ivory, Black & White, Sunlight, Taupe, Red, Ocean Blue, Plum, & Hunter
Phaze full back vest and bow ties in Black, White, Ivory, Platinum, Gold, Burgundy, & Eggplant
Silhouette high cut vests and bow ties in Black, White, Ivory, Black & White (Silver), Gold, Hunter, Burgundy, Navy
Renesance Paisley vests and bow ties in Black, White, Ivory, Red, Silver & Gold, Burgundy & Gold, Navy & Gold, Hunter & Gold, Purple & Gold
Genesis Paisley low cut vests in Black, White, White w/ Black trim, Black & White, Charcoal, Kelly Green, Royal Blue, Azalea, Peach, Purple, & Teal

All Styles can be viewed at http://www.bunnytuxedos.com/html/discontinued.html

Thanks,
Stacey Nelson
Bunny Tuxedos
3956 30th Street SW
Grandville, MI 49418
(616) 538-1760
www.bunnytuxedos.com
customerservice@bunnytuxedos.com

Elegant Penguin has the following items for sale. Store operators can contact Israel Wiggins for information and purchase:

Israel Wiggins
Elegant Penguin
363 Meridian Ave.
San Jose, CA 95126
408-294-3311

J&L Formalwear is looking to buy:

WANTED -- IVORY 2 BUTTON NOTCH JACKETS-- FWI LOOKING FOR FULL RUN 

OFFERED FOR SALE --IYORY LORD WEST SHAWL TAILS --1BUTTON SHAWLS GOOD RUNS OF BOTH ALSO HAVE MATCHING PANTS
CALL SAL 504-340-4544 J&L FORMAL

Merlo Formal Rentals and Sales is looking to buy: I’m looking to buy some Lord West Crown Collection Subtle Stripe pants in good condition.

Rick Merlo
Merlo Formal Rentals and Sales
rcmerlo@merloformals.com

Class Act Tuxedo & Bridal offers for sale: I have available New White Tail Coats (Notch). Call for size range and price.

Sal
Class Act Tuxedo & Bridal
26459 Ynez Rd
Temecula, Ca
(951) 296-5885

Wanted to Buy:
We need Black Peak Tails in all sizes 100 percent wool and the designer name is not important. They can email me at asbrocca4@aol.com or call anytime at 602 299-1743 or 602 957-0089 and ask for Rose or Angelo

Ducky’s Formal Wear Need Wholesale Backup or Inventory to Purchase
Lord West’s Chaps 3 Button Charcoal Barrington. Looking for wholesale backup or inventory to purchase. Please contact Steve or Cathy at Ducky’s Formal Wear Moline, IL 309-797-9889

Wanted to Buy: Elly's Formal Wear, Kihei, Maui, HI
PERRY ELLIS AMERICA CHAMPAGNE TUXEDO!!
We are in need of any and all sizes (both mens and boys) of the Perry Ellis America 2 button Notch Champagne Tuxedo. With matching pants and if possible, the tan Perry Ellis square toe shoes. We'd prefer in good condition and no damages. Please email info@ellysformalwear.com or terri@ellysformalwear.com if you have these items. Thank you!

For Sale: Elly's Formal Wear in Kihei, Maui, HI
We are looking to down size our inventory styles.
We have the OSCAR DE LA RENTA RENAISSANCE I black 2 button Notch tuxedo coats available.
We also have the AFTER SIX 4 BUTTON NOTCH black tuxedo coats.

Please email for inventory sheets or sizes. Special wholesale rates and discounts if you buy all.
Email info@ellysformalwear.com or terri@ellysformalwear.com 

Thank you!

Jim Venturini Offered For Sale Our complete inventory is for sale.

1 button notch various manufacturers - 169 coats
2 button notch various manufacturers - 150 coats
3 button notch various manufacturers - 136 coats
Black Cannes - 105
Black Appollo - 17
4 Button Glory - 94
Black FUBU Stratus - 119
Claiborne Citiedge - 81
LW Black 3-button suit - 46
2-button Lora Piana - 71
Black Ecko Chalk Stripe - 106
Black Ecko Extreme (short coat)- 42
Black Ecko Extreme - 31
Black Mirage - 89
Perry Ellis Hartford - 85
Perry Ellis Vision - 139
Pinstripe Corleone - 86
LW Savvi 3-button - 91
Perry Ellis Republic Champagne - 19
Chocolate Parisian - 77
Platinum Grey Chaps Barrington - 56
White FUBU Stratus - 70
White Ecko Chalk Stripe - 66
White Ecko Extreme (short coat) - 30
White Ecko Extreme - 20
White Mirage - 57
White Cannes - 51
White Appollo - 41
FWI White 3 button - 76
Ivory Cannes - 45
Ivory Appollo - 17
Ivory Ecko Extreme (short coat)- 18
Ivory Ecko Extreme - 18
FWI Ivory Mystique - 59

Pants, accessories, shirts and shoes available!
Call Jim at 262-705-4756 for price and details

Jim Venturini
URSAVVI Inc.
Dba.:Savvi Formalwear
7645 Pershing Blvd.
Kenosha, WI 53142
office: 262-694-6077
fax: 262-694-6290
cell: 262-705-4256

408-294-3223 Fax
www.tuxedofashions.com

Offered For Sale by Trish’s Formal Affair
Oscar de la Renta Contour I 2Btn Coats All in Very Good Condition $25 a Coat or $20 each to take all!

$15 backless vest with bow tie (if avail) $10 each set to take all!
"Freedom"
"Citi Lites"
"Versailles"
"Sunsets"(All Backless) various colors.
Call for complete scales and further information:
985-543-0043 Ask for Trish
Thank You So Much!

For Sale Tuxedos By Lee
Style # if coats Price Condition
Black mandarin waist 30 coats $400 Good
Black Claiborne citiscape 37” 3 button 45 coats $900 Good
White Claiborne Notch 3 button 50 coats $400 Poor
White Claiborne Notch 5 button 65 coats $900 Good
White Claiborne Notch 36” 5 button 45 coats $600 Ok
White Lord West Notch Tail 30 coats $600 OK
White pants to match above coats 40 pants $400 OK
All above whites are c-itoh material

Have some colors available in the Raffinati shirts. Call for price.
Buyer pays for shipping. Questions or to order contact Lee at Tuxedos by Lee
tuxbylee@comcast.net or 801.916.3077
Bunny Tuxedo offers For Sale:
Tuxedos & matching accessories:
Black Double Breasted Jackets (shawl & notch)
Silver Spirit Jackets, Tail coats, pants, cummerbunds and bow ties
White Avante Shawl Double Breasted Jackets & Tail Coats
White Toulon Jackets & Tail Coats
White Shantung Dinner Jackets

Vest and Tie collections:
Celebrity Paisley full back vest, bow ties, and cravats in Black, White, Silver, Champagne, Sage, Heather, & Desert Blue
Fusion full back vest and bow ties (these are the original Fusion vests with the square pattern, not solid like the current fusion styles) in Black, White, Silver, Asphalt , & Red
Double take full back and backless vest and bow ties in Black, White, Ivory, Black & White, Sunlight, Taupe, Red, Ocean Blue, Plum, & Hunter
Phaze full back vest and bow ties in Black, White, Ivory, Platinum, Gold, Burgundy, & Eggplant
Silhouette high cut vests and bow ties in Black, White, Ivory, Black & White (Silver), Gold, Hunter, Burgundy, Navy
Renesance Paisley vests and bow ties in Black, White, Ivory, Red, Silver & Gold, Burgundy & Gold, Navy & Gold, Hunter & Gold, Purple & Gold
Genesis Paisley low cut vests in Black, White, White w/ Black trim, Black & White, Charcoal, Kelly Green, Royal Blue, Azalea, Peach, Purple, & Teal

All Styles can be viewed at http://www.bunnytuxedos.com/html/discontinued.html

Thanks,
Stacey Nelson
Bunny Tuxedos
3956 30th Street SW
Grandville, MI 49418
(616) 538-1760
www.bunnytuxedos.com
customerservice@bunnytuxedos.com

Elegant Penguin has the following items for sale. Store operators can contact Israel Wiggins for information and purchase:

Israel Wiggins
Elegant Penguin
363 Meridian Ave.
San Jose, CA 95126
408-294-3311

J&L Formalwear is looking to buy:

WANTED -- IVORY 2 BUTTON NOTCH JACKETS-- FWI LOOKING FOR FULL RUN 

OFFERED FOR SALE --IYORY LORD WEST SHAWL TAILS --1BUTTON SHAWLS GOOD RUNS OF BOTH ALSO HAVE MATCHING PANTS
CALL SAL 504-340-4544 J&L FORMAL

Merlo Formal Rentals and Sales is looking to buy: I’m looking to buy some Lord West Crown Collection Subtle Stripe pants in good condition.

Rick Merlo
Merlo Formal Rentals and Sales
rcmerlo@merloformals.com

Class Act Tuxedo & Bridal offers for sale: I have available New White Tail Coats (Notch). Call for size range and price.

Sal
Class Act Tuxedo & Bridal
26459 Ynez Rd
Temecula, Ca
(951) 296-5885

Wanted to Buy:
We need Black Peak Tails in all sizes 100 percent wool and the designer name is not important. They can email me at asbrocca4@aol.com or call anytime at 602 299-1743 or 602 957-0089 and ask for Rose or Angelo

Ducky’s Formal Wear Need Wholesale Backup or Inventory to Purchase
Lord West’s Chaps 3 Button Charcoal Barrington. Looking for wholesale backup or inventory to purchase. Please contact Steve or Cathy at Ducky’s Formal Wear Moline, IL 309-797-9889

Wanted to Buy: Elly's Formal Wear, Kihei, Maui, HI
PERRY ELLIS AMERICA CHAMPAGNE TUXEDO!!
We are in need of any and all sizes (both mens and boys) of the Perry Ellis America 2 button Notch Champagne Tuxedo. With matching pants and if possible, the tan Perry Ellis square toe shoes. We'd prefer in good condition and no damages. Please email info@ellysformalwear.com or terri@ellysformalwear.com if you have these items. Thank you!

For Sale: Elly's Formal Wear in Kihei, Maui, HI
We are looking to down size our inventory styles.
We have the OSCAR DE LA RENTA RENAISSANCE I black 2 button Notch tuxedo coats available.
We also have the AFTER SIX 4 BUTTON NOTCH black tuxedo coats.

Please email for inventory sheets or sizes. Special wholesale rates and discounts if you buy all.
Email info@ellysformalwear.com or terri@ellysformalwear.com 

Thank you!

Jim Venturini Offered For Sale Our complete inventory is for sale.

1 button notch various manufacturers - 169 coats
2 button notch various manufacturers - 150 coats
3 button notch various manufacturers - 136 coats
Black Cannes - 105
Black Appollo - 17
4 Button Glory - 94
Black FUBU Stratus - 119
Claiborne Citiedge - 81
LW Black 3-button suit - 46
2-button Lora Piana - 71
Black Ecko Chalk Stripe - 106
Black Ecko Extreme (short coat)- 42
Black Ecko Extreme - 31
Black Mirage - 89
Perry Ellis Hartford - 85
Perry Ellis Vision - 139
Pinstripe Corleone - 86
LW Savvi 3-button - 91
Perry Ellis Republic Champagne - 19
Chocolate Parisian - 77
Platinum Grey Chaps Barrington - 56
White FUBU Stratus - 70
White Ecko Chalk Stripe - 66
White Ecko Extreme (short coat) - 30
White Ecko Extreme - 20
White Mirage - 57
White Cannes - 51
White Appollo - 41
FWI White 3 button - 76
Ivory Cannes - 45
Ivory Appollo - 17
Ivory Ecko Extreme (short coat)- 18
Ivory Ecko Extreme - 18
FWI Ivory Mystique - 59

Pants, accessories, shirts and shoes available!
Call Jim at 262-705-4756 for price and details

Jim Venturini
URSAVVI Inc.
Dba.:Savvi Formalwear
7645 Pershing Blvd.
Kenosha, WI 53142
office: 262-694-6077
fax: 262-694-6290
cell: 262-705-4256

408-294-3223 Fax
www.tuxedofashions.com

To get to where you want and to find what you seek first and foremost the present is where you must peek!
We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give.

~Sir Winston Churchill~

To get to where you want and to find what you seek first and foremost the present is where you must peek!
We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give.

~Sir Winston Churchill~

The opinions expressed by the authors do not reflect necessarily of the Association of  International Formalwear, its officials, directors or personnel. Each author is the unique person in charge of her or his content.

The opinions expressed by the authors do not reflect necessarily of the Association of  International Formalwear, its officials, directors or personnel. Each author is the unique person in charge of her or his content.