In the "Your Guide to Gifted Giving," the December issue of Real Simple magazine advises consumers: "What not to give: foil wrapped poinsettias are clearly passé."
 
Dot Perry of Gordon Florist in Baltimore, Md., spotted the remark and contacted SAF. In turn, SAF sent a letter to the magazine's editor: "While SAF understands and appreciates the need to provide readers with a variety of new and interesting gift choices, the remark seems unfair and unnecessary as your advice could have stood on its own without the negative comparison. You may also want to consider that the remark may offend other readers -- those who enjoy giving and receiving poinsettias. The festive plant is a longstanding favorite, with between 70 million and 80 million typically sold for the holidays." 
 
At press time, SAF had not received a response from Real Simple.
 
To report negative publicity, email jstromann@safnow.org, or fax it to (703) 836-8705.

--Vanessa Machir
vmachir@safnow.org

 

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