(Photo courtesy of Tracy Hua)
Online fashion retailer Fashion Nova will pay $9.3 million to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that it didn’t properly notify consumers and give them the chance to cancel their orders when it failed to ship merchandise in a timely manner, and that it illegally used gift cards to compensate consumers for unshipped merchandise instead of providing refunds.
Under the terms of Fashion Nova’s proposed settlement with the FTC, the money will be used to refund consumers who were harmed by the company’s violations.
The FTC’s complaint against Fashion Nova alleges that it violated the agency’s Mail, Internet, Or Telephone Order Merchandise Rule (the Mail Order Rule), which applies to merchandise sold to consumers online, by mail, or by phone.
“The same rules that we have enforced for nearly 50 years against catalogers and other mail-order companies also apply to online sellers,” said Andrew Smith, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “Online retailers need to know that our Mail Order Rule requires them to notify customers in the event of shipping delays and offer the right to cancel with a full refund—not just a gift card or a store credit.”
According to the complaint, Fashion Nova violated the Rule in two ways. First, the company made clear promises to consumers for years that they offer fast shipping of their products. This includes using phrases like “Fast Shipping,” “2-Day Shipping,” and “Expect Your Items Quick!” In fact, the company regularly failed to meet its shipping promises to consumers, and failed to meet the Mail Order Rule’s requirement that consumers be notified of shipping delays and given the chance to cancel orders and receive prompt refunds.
The complaint also alleges that Fashion Nova at times failed to refund consumers for the items that it did not ship. Instead, it was the company’s policy to issue gift cards, which are not considered refunds under the Mail Order Rule. The company also failed to cancel orders and provide refunds when it did not offer consumers delay option notices.
Under the terms of the proposed settlement, Fashion Nova will be required to pay $9.3 million to be used to refund consumers who were harmed by the company’s violations of the Mail Order Rule. Of that, $7.04 million will be sent to the FTC for use in refunding consumers and $2.26 million must be refunded directly by the company to consumers. Consumers who received gift cards instead of refunds when the company violated the Mail Order Rule will be eligible for refunds under the settlement.
The settlement also prohibits Fashion Nova from any further violations of the Mail Order Rule, and requires the company to ship ordered merchandise within one day of receipt of an order when the company doesn’t specify a shipping date.
The Commission vote authorizing the staff to file the complaint and proposed stipulated order was 5-0. The FTC filed the complaint and final judgment in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California.
NOTE: The Commission files a complaint when it has “reason to believe” that the named defendants are violating or are about to violate the law and it appears to the Commission that a proceeding is in the public interest. Stipulated orders have the force of law when approved and signed by the District Court judge.
The Federal Trade Commission works to promote competition, and protect and educate consumers. You can learn more about consumer topics and file a consumer complaint online or by calling 1-877-FTC-HELP (382-4357). Like the FTC on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, read our blogs, and subscribe to press releases for the latest FTC news and resources.
As race-specific data for COVID-19 cases are published, African American civic and public health leaders are organizing to outline a number of urgent requests to the federal government and influential corporations. As has been widely reported in recent news, it is impossible to ignore the link between the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on African Americans and the longstanding and continuing economic and health disparities in the U.S. In response, NAATPN, Inc., in collaboration with the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and the Council on Black Health, have drafted a letter detailing immediate actions that need to occur as well as long-term solutions to health justice issues that must be addressed in order to eliminate health disparities.
According to Delmonte Jefferson, executive director for NAATPN, Inc. and convener of the group, the pandemic has exposed the country’s major health inequities in the U.S.
“The root cause of the COVID-19 disparities on African American populations is embedded in our country’s unjust history that devalues African American health and well-being.” He says that it is imperative that the country devises short- and long-term plans to achieve true heath equity.
Shiriki Kumanyika, a research professor at Drexel University and founder of the Council on Black Health, notes: “This would be an unparalleled opportunity for federal, state, and local governments to show leadership—to implement permanent solutions that ensure the health and well-being of all residents—giving particular priority to those disproportionately experiencing pervasive, cumulative forms of social and economic disadvantage and health risks.”
As noted by Derrick Johnson, president and CEO of the NAACP, “Increasingly, the data on COVID-19 underscore why our organizations exist and are joining forces at this time: Now more than ever, Black people are paying the price for our short- and long-term policy failures through compromised health and an early demise. Enough is enough.”
The letter, now signed by more than 25 African American-led organizations, requests that government agencies, corporations and philanthropic organizations develop a coordinated strategy to provide COVID-19 relief for the most affected communities.
Specifically, the letter’s short-term requests include:
Long-term requests include:
Most organizations signed on to the letter operate specific programs and policy advocacy efforts that address economic and health disparities among African American populations.
To view the letter, visit www.naatpn.org/covidcollective to download or sign the letter.
Statistics have it that each year, an estimated 1.6 million premature deaths occur as a result of indoor air pollution. While most of these cases can be attributed to cooking using solid fuel sources like firewood, dung, and crop waste among poor households, many other sources of indoor air pollution exist in modern homes. In addition to smoke, dust, dust mites, pollen, pet hair, mold, and mildew, from various parts around the home are known to trigger respiratory allergies, worsen asthma symptoms and cause hay fever. This is why many households (especially those with a family member suffering from respiratory allergies) invest in air cleaning and purification systems. On this note, the air filter and air purifier are the two most common options available for homeowners. But which one between the two should you invest in when looking to improve indoor health?
Well, starting with their definitions, this article seeks to help you understand the differences between air filters and purifiers so you can decide which one is better for a cleaner and healthier home.
By simple definition, an air filter is a unit that does what the name suggests… it filters air! The unit contains a mesh-like surface that sieves particles such as dust, dust mites, mold spores, and allergens from the air as it passes through. Also known as air cleaners, there are various types of air filters on the market. In the article “Air Filters vs Air Purifiers” from Filter Buy, the author points out that activated carbon filters, fiberglass filters, HEPA filters, and washable filters are among the most common types of air filters on the market today. This is largely based on the technology they use.
In most cases, air filters work hand in hand with the HVAC system to trap contaminant particles as air is drawn into your home by the HVAC unit. Strategically located in between the furnace/AC and the air return duct, the unit ensures that the air flowing into your home from the outside is clean.
One major upside of an air cleaner is that it ensures indoor air is free from larger particles like dust and pet dander.
The downside, however, is that some air cleaners can be particularly noisy and may replacement of filters may be a bit expensive.
As you can tell from the name, an air purifier sanitizes or purifies the air coming into your home. This means that it gets rid of bacteria, mold, certain viruses, and fungi. In other words, the unit is designed to get rid of things that may make you sick and not necessarily cause allergies. By so doing, the unit goes a notch higher in improving the quality of air inside your home. However, some air purifiers may have the capacity to sieve allergen particles from the air as well, but these often have a filter of some sort.
From standalone systems to units installed in HVAC ductwork, there’s a wide range of air purifiers depending on the air purification mechanisms they use. Some common types of air purifiers include Ionizing purifiers, Adsorbent purifiers, and UV light purifiers, which use Ionic or Electrostatic capabilities, ozone generator, and UV sterilization mechanisms to neutralize microorganisms.
Just like air filters, air purifiers have their fair share of pros and cons.
On the Brightside, the biggest advantage of air purifiers is that they eliminate airborne pathogens that may cause illness and allergies. Also, a majority of air cleaners provide quiet operation and compared to an air cleaner, an air purifier is less expensive to operate and maintain.
On the other hand, very few air purifiers are capable of removing dust and particulate contaminants from the air. Additionally, some possess a risk of ozone and UV emissions. Unless air circulation is really good, an air purifier’s ability may be limited to only a portion of the room.
PConsidering the above pros and cons of each of the two alternatives, two facts are evident. One; both of them are incredibly vital in improving the quality of air inside our homes. Two; combining air filtration and air purification can be a great way to ensure that you and your family breathe in clean air that is free from allergens and pathogens. This also means that while an air filter can be used on its own, it’s better to look for an air purification device that also has purifier capabilities… one that combines both technologies. To add to that, it’s important to be keen on the features of the unit you purchase because some companies use the terms “air cleaner” and “air purifier” interchangeably.
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LINKS
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OR REPOST FROM BUJU BANTON’S INSTAGRAM
Young people and their families can stay active and healthy with Soccer for Success at Home
Staci Wilson kicks off a new video challenge
Families across the country are grappling with fear and uncertainty right now, but the organization leading the nation’s efforts to bring soccer to young people in underserved communities is stepping up to ensure kids stay healthy and active.
The U.S. Soccer Foundation recently launched Soccer for Success at Home, an online hub offering kids and their families fun drills, activities, and useful tips that will get them back in the game. In addition to a weekly e-newsletter, the initiative includes videos from experienced coaches and even the occasional professional athlete, including a new video from Olympic Gold Medalist Staci Wilson challenging kids to improve their speed and agility with line hops.
In some cases, all it takes to participate is a ball (or even just a couple pairs of socks)!
“It’s so important for all of us, especially children, to stay connected and active during this challenging time,” said Ed Foster-Simeon, President & CEO of the U.S. Soccer Foundation. “That’s why we’ve created and collected resources from trusted sources to help young people and their families stay active, healthy, and informed while schools are closed and they’re at home.”
For more information on Soccer for Success at Home, visit www.soccerforsuccess.org/athome.
About the U.S. Soccer Foundation
The U.S. Soccer Foundation’s programs are the national model for sports-based youth development in underserved communities. Since its founding in 1994, the Foundation has established programs proven to help children embrace an active and healthy lifestyle while nurturing their personal growth beyond sports. Its cost-effective, high-impact initiatives offer safe environments where kids and communities thrive. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the U.S. Soccer Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) organization. Follow us on Twitter at @ussoccerfndn and Facebook at facebook.com/ussoccerfoundation.
“The world of fashion, and the power that colors and textures have creating a mood have been with me from a very young age,” explains Donna Leah, when talking about the launch of her new brand, Donna Leah Designs. “I’ve always felt that sparkle and glamour should be enjoyed from the moment we wake up until after dark. Getting dressed in what we love is a great way to start the day with a positive vibe and makes me feel like I can accomplish anything. I am my own superhero.”
A graduate of New York’s famed Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), the American designer chose to base her brand in Miami where the dynamic energy of the city sparks her concepts. The brand was founded on a vision of empowerment and the need to be distinctive. A signature element of the brand is coordinating shawls that can be interpreted as a cape for women who embrace their individuality and are their own superhero.
Founded in late 2018, the brand launched with a collection of evening gowns inspired by the power of nature and the divine. Blues are a reminder of the ocean and the sky, greens and golds are the color of precious gems and lush foliage. “Heaven,” Donna Leah’s favorite piece, features a stunning sequins gown with a matching cape in mauve, a color she identifies with love and passion.
Now that people are spending more time at home, the designer has launched a line of loungewear inspired by her gowns, which incorporates Donna Leah’s love of metallics in bright shades of blues, pinks, and purples. The cape in the designer’s gowns has been translated into a hood for the loungewear collection. All pieces feel powerful, yet feminine, with bold colors and textures that act as a unifying statement for the brand.
Launching later this year will be a special series of designer statement t-shirts. Donna Leah explains, “I love making a statement and so much of us want to assert our feelings in a powerful way. While this is not a new concept, Donna Leah Designs is taking a unique approach that will resonate with women who have ageless style and are confident in their ideas.”
The reason for Donna Leah’s steady growing buzz is straightforward: the styles make a strong statement while being glamorous and unique at the same time. After completing several seasonal collections, including evening gowns, ready-to-wear, handbags, and accessories, Donna Leah is finding an audience for her pieces in the entertainment industry. She has shown her collections at the Grammy Awards and Oscars in 2019, and numerous celebrities are fans of her brand including Tanya Tucker, Cindy Lauper, Aerosmith, Roots, Cheap Trick, and Sharon Osbourne.
For all things Donna Leah Designs ho HERE.
While social distancing measures mean we can’t travel, that doesn’t mean we can bring the spirit of our favorite destinations to our own homes. The chefs at Brisas Hotel Group, a leading Mexican hotel brand renowned for their local hospitality, have shared some of their favorite drinks inspired by the flavors and history of Mexico. For an added touch, stream the live beach cam feed from Brisas’ luxurious NIZUC Resort & Spa in Cancun.
Red Fruit Mojito
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Tepache Pina Colada
Ingredients for the Tepache:
Tepache is a great drink on its own so this recipe is for 5 liters so you can have a carafe ready for enjoyment. Tepache is a traditional Mexican drink that dates to Pre-Columbian Mexico and was popular amongst the Nahua people of central Mexico.
Ingredients for the Tepache:
Instructions for Tepache:
Instructions for Tepache Pina Colada:
Donaji
Ingredients:
Instructions:
At the moment, everyone is intently focused on physical health. After all, in a global pandemic, the virus is our greatest enemy. Having infected over a million people worldwide, killing over a hundred thousand, COVID-19 is incredibly serious and requires constant awareness.
However, that does not mean mental health concerns can take a back seat. On the contrary, more people than ever are suffering with anxiety related to the illness, job loss, economic collapse, and more.
If you are having panic attacks, you are certainly not alone. Furthermore, while it is easy to downplay panic attacks in the face of a deadly virus, anyone who has gone through one knows how serious it can be.
While some people have turned to therapy, mindfulness, and yoga, others do not find comfort in these areas. An interesting alternative is turning to an online psychic.
How can a psychic help?
Good psychics like Best Psychics Club are not the mysterious type you see on TV. They don’t wave their hands and make predictions about your future. Rather, they give you insight into yourself. They are in many ways similar to a therapist. The difference is that they tap into your psychic energies, instead of focusing solely on your coping mechanisms.
Tarot card readers can help you understand what is going on inside you and what patterns you need to look out for. They can give you practical guidance as to how to prevent panic attacks and manage them in the moment.
Palm readings can give you a deep look into certain fundamental aspects of your character. After all, these truths are applicable throughout your life. You can learn how best to manage your emotions in general.
If you have lost someone close to you, a medium can give you the reassurance that they are still a part of your life. They can connect you to the different energies necessary to tap in order to get in touch with them.
Interested in psychic readings to help with your panic attacks? Try these brands.
California Psychics
California Psychics is an excellent platform for any first-timer. The most significant thing to know about California psychics is that they vet every single psychic on their site. This is crucial as it is all-too-easy for charlatans to pretend to know more than they do. This platform can help you with incredible insight into your inner self. Their psychics are responsible and will not give you information you cannot handle. They will see you through the process of putting their information into practice.
Psychic Source
While California Psychics is ideal for carefully vetted professionals, Psychic Source will put you in touch with a much wider range of types of psychics. Thus, if tarot cards and palm readings don’t suit your needs, you can look for something which does. Psychic Source does vet its psychics, but may not be as thorough in the process as California Psychics.
Kasamba
Kasamba is one of the oldest online psychic sites. They are highly reliable and provide a good range of readings. While not as varied as Psychic Source, they do provide a more traditional experience. They have been doing this a long time, and have countless happy customers. They can give you good insight into your own strengths, helping you get through panic attacks and any other challenges in these trying times.
Summary
A psychic can certainly help you with panic attacks. During the COVID-19 crisis, this sort of help may be exactly what you need. Make sure you do your research before settling on any one psychic. Choosing someone so important to your well-being should take your full commitment.
We’ve spent the past few weeks getting closer than ever with some of our friends. Physical isolation has caused all of us to reach out to the people we cannot be around right now. Voice and video calls take up much of our days, as do online games and Netflix watching parties. We’re really getting to know our friends and family a lot better.
Nonetheless, sometimes there’s just no substitute for physical proximity, and some older family and friends may not be all that good on a video call. Numerous times we have wanted to reach out with a more material expression of love, and gift giving has become one of our favorite pastimes.
But what gifts can you send during this time? Ideally, you want to send something that shows love and is also useful. The good news is that there are a number of gift ideas that you can easily get delivered to whoever you’re missing.
Try reaching out with some of the following gifts.
Wine (from a wine club)
We know we’re not the only ones who are using this opportunity to get better acquainted with the subtleties of wine. Relaxing with a glass of wine is the ideal way to end a day in quarantine. What’s better is if you can share the experience with others.
You definitely know a few wine lovers. Make their day by sending them a wine gift online. It will be even better if you can do some wine tasting with them. This is where an online wine club membership can come in handy. You can get bottles and tasters sent to you and your loved ones, then join them online as you enjoy the different flavors and learn more about the nuances.
Books
A lot of people want to read more but never get the time. Now, however, many people would love the chance to read. They might not have a ton of books at home, however. This is a great opportunity to share some books that you love or are currently reading. Think about what interests your loved ones and find a book on Goodreads or by browsing Amazon or other online booksellers.
You can send hard or softcover books to those who are not good with technology or simply prefer the physical experience. Alternatively, you can share ebooks with ease. And Audiobooks can provide the perfect reading experience for anyone who loves to read with their eyes closed or while they are doing other stuff (such as cooking or working out).
Exercise equipment
It is very frustrating not to be able to go to the gym at this time. We need to blow off steam more than ever, but the only space we have to do so is our homes. In light of this, tons of experts (and faux-experts) are sharing great home workouts. Unfortunately, many of these workouts assume you have certain basics. For example, they will provide exercises that require resistance bands or small weights. They might work under the assumption that you have a pullup bar.
If a loved one is struggling to find a good substitute to their regular workout, some exercise equipment can be a great gift. Something as simple as a resistance band opens up so many workouts. Pullup bars are perfect for anyone who wants to build some serious muscle (and has suitable doorways).
Alternatively, buy them a subscription to a service like Sworkit, which guides you through workouts step-by-step. Make sure you have a context for these gifts. If they have mentioned their frustrations with home workouts, these deliveries will make them smile. If they haven’t, they might feel implicitly attacked!
Healthy snacks
Being stuck at home presents a number of potential hazards. One is the snack cupboard. We all stacked up on snacks as soon as we knew we would have to spend this much time indoors. Unfortunately, it is almost impossible to resist the urge to eat those snacks when you’re bored. You end up feeling guilty and bloated, while constantly running out of these snacks.
That’s why it is so important you keep some healthy snacks. They don’t need to be too low on calories or lack any sugar whatsoever. They just need to be better than milk chocolate and sugar-coated candy. Dried fruits and nuts are perfect, as are fresh fruits.
Get some for yourself. Then have some delivered to your loved ones. They will get to enjoy your loving gift without feeling guilty. You’ll feel like you have helped them, rather than provided something that will only encourage unhealthy habits.
Getting gifts delivered is the perfect way to reach out to the people you are missing in isolation. Share what you can and use this time to improve all your relationships.
