As most of our fine readers know, when you multi-task, details can fall through the cracks.  The task of running and maintaining this blog belongs to two people at Making Memories, both of whom also handle many other activities within the company … and also at home.    Translated: we do not have the opportunity to conduct background checks on all of our guest participants – something that has obviously come back to haunt us in an embarrassing and startling way.

Please let us state outright: under no circumstances do we condone any illegal activities.  Had we been aware that last week’s guest designer had a criminal background, we obviously would not have featured her work.  If we could turn back time, we certainly would; unfortunately, we posted her submission based on the timing of its arrival, the nature of its design, and absolutely nothing more.  Our mistake.

We started inviting guest designers to our blog at the request of our readers.  In the multiple surveys we have hosted, in an effort to find out what you wanted to read, the response overwhelmingly favored putting the spotlight on other designers who rarely get acknowledged for their talent.    Our trusting nature, however, has proven flawed – it opens us up to submissions from people who do not deserve the spotlight. However, we do not have the resources or often the ability to conduct background checks on each participant.

We like to think that ours can be a forum where others’ work can shine. However, we can not imply that we sponsor them, or that they work for us, or that we are affiliated.  We just knew that we had a venue to share with others. Deep in our hearts, we would still rather operate as trusting people and feature submissions that we receive; sadly, however, until we can find a way to conduct said checks, we will likely have to discontinue that practice.

In the meantime, please know that the reason we were not able to address this problem over the weekend came from personal circumstances:  one of us has been out of town (and away from a computer) on vacation. The other one of us was celebrating her two children’s birthdays and had not been online – and instead hosting back-to-back events for an eight- and an eleven- year old.

Please do not let our oversight reflect on the entire company. We are sincerely sorry to have disappointed any of you.  We so enjoy working on this blog and hope that you will give us the opportunity to earn back your trust.  We also would sincerely appreciate any suggestions and insight, as always, as to how we could improve this site to make it more enjoyable for you to read.

Thank you for all of your time and understanding.  We are here to answer any questions you may have. 

Sincerely,

Jenny Weston and Kelly Mooney

Comments

[Josie]

Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. I suspected as much and am glad to see that you are doing the right thing.

[Melody Williamson]

Obviously I do not follow this blog enough to know what you are talking about so I may also saound ridiculous with my next comment. I say who cares what the background is if they can create great projects? And there is probably no way to do checks on someones whole history just to post a scrapbook layout that they have completed and that should be understood by everyone.

[Tracy Johnson]

Oh my goodness... I too, don't know what the fuss was about. But I don't feel you should have to offer up such an apology, and to justify that you were on vacation or attending your childrens' birthday party. Probably most of us devoted readers of this wonderful blog are just happy to see such beautiful projects and ideas every day, and don't know or care what the fuss was and appreciate your care and devotion to what you are doing. I say thank you for what you provide and let's move on!

[Stephanie]

Here's my personal opinion and remember this is my opinion. Who cares if a guest designer has a criminal background? They can still craft just like the rest of us. It's not like because the have a history that they cant make awesome layouts. Whoever had a problem with this needs to get off of their high horse and be a little more forgiving.

Ok my opinion is over.

Please dont go to my blog and write stupid stuff too cause it will just be deleted.

[Susan]

Like Melody, I have no idea what this post is about. However, my thoughts on the subject in general are thus: so long as the individual is not CURRENTLY participating in criminal activities, what harm is there in featuring a layout this person has created?

Let's be honest, we all make mistakes. And if you want to split hairs, we're all criminals assuming we each commit even the most minor traffic infraction on any given day. I'm guessing (hoping) this guest designer has picked herself up, dusted herself off, learned something, and decided to be a better person despite the sordid past. And you know, good for her! Let's encourage her rather than throw her to the lions.

[Melissa]

Thank you so much addressing the issue in an eloquent and responsible way and doing the right thing.

To those who don't know the circumstances, if you did know them, I doubt you would be feeling so magnanimous if you knew the details. MM has done the right thing and I appreciate your words and action.

[Jenna F]

Jenny and Kelly, I think you're in a no-win situation! Honestly, I don't think you should HAVE to conduct background checks, nor do I think you should have to stop having guest designers. If you were to stop using designers you "discover", and only use designers whose history you are familiar with (i.e. your friends, lol), people will complain you're "rigging" things. I think a simple disclaimer either posted permanently on the blog or with each guest designer stating that (as you put it above), "However, we can not imply that we sponsor them, or that they work for us, or that we are affiliated." more than covers you.

I think that if anything, you've proved you highlight work based on the work itself, and not any "reputation" (good or bad, lol!) associated with the designer. Don't let this one backfire stop you from continuing to do this!

:)

[Angela]

I also don't know what's going on. But truly, I feel if the project is beautiful, well created, made with Making Memories product, and clean in nature, why can't you put it on your blog? I don't care if the person is straight out of jail with a record. We all have problems, and sometimes those problems inspire us to create beautiful things. I thank you for your concern, but we'd all still love to see more work from people all over the world, from different walks of life.

[nicole petersen]

well stated! i feel for you and the victims. we can only do the best we can. i don't think you should stop excepting los from unknown people. it's life - you will never be able to please all.

have a good week!

[noell]

Bravo, Making Memories! I think a rational expectation is NOT that you conduct background checks (wouldn't that be costly???) and not that you discontinue guest designers. Just that you remove a guest when her dishonesty comes to light. You did this and we all appreciate it.

Thank you!!!!!

[Stacy Bassett]

I applaud you for posting on the blog and hope that you will continue to feature artists. I know that you will be more cautious in the future before placing a spotlight on someone who has tarnished the very industry they are receiving recognition from. I hope you have sent a personal apology to the store owner as well. As for those who are "unaware" of what happened, i doubt you would continue to support the artist once you know the full story.

Stacy B.

[Sandra]

Ladies, for those of you that don't know the exact story, the guest designers criminal conviction was for stealing $100K worth of scrapbooking supplies from a local scrapbooking store. To comit such a crime *within* the industry, and then be promoted amongst it is somewhat ridiculous.

I fully applaud MM for removing the work in question, once they were made aware of the issue.

Well done!

[noell]

If I can respond to Angela, who is confused about the situation...

It's not just that Jennifer has a criminal background. It's the fact that she stole hundreds of thousands worth of money and product from her scrapbook store with the help of her children, has not paid it all back, is gloating on her blog about all the product she buys for her gorgeous scraproom (when that should go back to th store owner) and is allowing scraplifted layouts to be highlighted on multiple blogs without crediting the original designer she copied.

We expect scrapbook companies to support the scrapbook stores that keep them in business. And while scraplifting someone else's design for your personal albums is A-okay, it's not okay to submit it in a contest or as a guest "designer"

[Kerri Wastell]

Thank you for upholding you pristine reputation in the scrapbooking community. I can always count on Making Memories to do the RIGHT thing, such as this. I think MM business practices make them a benchmark in this industry. Bravo!

For those that don't know the whole story, it might be worth finding out. She didn't steal "just" $100,000 but closer to $290,000 in supplies from a local scrapbook store. She definitely should not be eligible to hold a position of honor in any respect to this industry.

[Lorie]

Making Memories has always been a first class company with outstanding customer service. I do not think this reflects badly on the company or the people in charge of the blog. Something was brought to your attention and you took care of it.

I don't think a background check should be required. It isn't like we are working with children here?

No, I do not think she deserves the recognition, but I think she ended up hurting herself more. Now the entire online scrapbooking world knows she is a criminal.

I hope that you will reconsider having guest designers and I hope that anyone who thinks this in anyway reflects on Making Memories will reconsider that as well.

Keep doing what you do best. Making wonderful products, providing OUTSTANDING customer service, and inspiring scrapbookers everywhere.

[Melody Williamson]

I think that what sounds like happened is appauling. However, there is no way that everyone across the nation knows of this isolated incident. I believe that it is exactly that. An isolated incident and should not punish all of those other honest crafters out there. I think that MM has gone above and beyond to try to correct the situation and that's that. Get over it and move on! I have not lost any respect or admiration for the talent that comes from MM!

[Angie]

MM is a wonderful company with years and years of great products and customer service. You all handled it well, and I have even more respect for your company. I will continue to buy lots of MM prducts. It's unfortunate the guest designer didn't think about how this could hurt your company, but this in no way changes in how I feel about MM

[Josie]

Melody - first of all, the word is APPALLING, not appauling. Second, I think that you should try to look beyond your own selfish interests and see that the rest of us would like this to be a clean hobby, not tainting by convicted felon.

I am always so surprised when scrapbookers are so willing to overlook bad behavior (and now criminal behavior) in order to curry favor with a designer or manufacturer.

I absolutely support MM for doing what they deem necessary to keep a clean and honest blog and company. I think that I'll go buy some MM product today.

[Jen]

I applaud Making Memories for their prompt attention to this matter. No, the company should not have to conduct background checks, but when things such as this come to light, it should be dealt with. The scrapbooker chosen to represent MM did not deserve it for all the reasons previously stated.

[Benita]

And this is exactly why I love Making Memories & their products! They did the right thing by removing Jennifer from their blog as a guest designer & because of that, I will continue to purchase lots & lots of MM products! Kuddos to you, Jenny & Kelly! But please don't let one bad apple ruin it for the rest of the honest people in the world! I hope you continue to post guest designers in the future.

[Mad Monkey]

Thank you for your professionalism and attention to this matter. With out any doubt, I will continue to support MM and enjoy your products as I always have. At this point, I don't think anyone that had a problem with this situation can fault your response in any way. Thank you for handling this with the dignity and class that is so obviously lacking in this so-called designer. I am sure that I am not the only one that truly feels that you are yet another victim of her dishonesty and are in no way responsible for her actions.

[linkypoo]

Thank you MM for doing the right thing. I realize you can't be monitoring the blog 24/7, but your prompt response at the beginning of the woork week was refreshing.
If Jennifer had done more than house arrest, finished probation, and completely repaid her financial debt the reaction probably would not have been so strong, but the way she flaunts her studio on her blog, (and herself on others blogs) is a slap in the face to her victims.

[Amanda D.]

Well, I don't remember which designer was "Jennifer" but I have to say that assuming the accusations are true, since there is no reason for them not to be, you did the right thing removing her from your blog.

[linkypoo]

"I am sure that I am not the only one that truly feels that you are yet another victim of her dishonesty and are in no way responsible for her actions."

I agree completely.

[Angie Ward]

Thank you for a proper response to this embarrasing situation. I do not fault you for featuring her not knowing what had happened. And I applaud you for doing the right thing once you learned about it. Well handled.

[Sherry]

Thank you for eloquent explanation and apology. I would have been upset if you had known her history when you appointed her a guest designer, but you can't be expected to run background checks on everyone. I think the people who are saying it was no big deal are wrong - it was a big deal - but you handled it beautifully.

[Debbie O'Neal]

Jenny & Kelly - I am sending you both a big HUG! I am sure you were just as shocked as the rest of us about Jennifer's past and you did the right thing removing her spot from the MM blog. You can't be all knowing or everywhere all the time and we know that. You did the right thing by removing it as soon as you could. MM is a wonderful company and has always provided professional customer support and products to it's customers and we will not think bad of the company nor of you.

Please continue to use guest designers...I like the idea of the disclaimer statement that someone else mentioned. That way you are covered "legally" and you can remove said offender if evidence warrants removal at your / MM discretion.

Keep on blogging girls ...we love it and you!

[Suni]

You handled this well, much better than other scrapbook companies have handled their past issues.

Thank you for listening to your customers.

[liz]

Whoa bizzaro...

[Tracy]

I am not surprised that this would happen....it's just really sad that MM now is not able to do the one thing that several blogs are able to do...I don't believe that this has anything to do with MM and their products at all....but is it just sad that one person can be the motivation of so many negative comments to MM when they didn't do anything wrong...for that matter, they surely would change things...too bad now for anyone new trying to get guest designer...

[Linda F.]

Get a grip, people!!! Can I expect the next time I submit something I'll have to get finger printed so they can run a criminal background check? Oh...wait...I'm 60 years old. I'm sure there's someone out there who finds THAT objectionable enough to not want to look at my work!

Get a life, people!

[Linda]

Way to go Making Memories. Way to go.
Your professionalism in handling this matter is very impressive.

Thank you for taking any customer concerns seriously. Conducting your own research in discovering facts and taking action.

I am very impressed. WOW.

[hannah]

Big hugs MM its not your fault and you did the right thing by removing her!! MM is still my no1 company!!

[Samantha]

Get a grip, people!!! Can I expect the next time I submit something I'll have to get finger printed so they can run a criminal background check? Oh...wait...I'm 60 years old. I'm sure there's someone out there who finds THAT objectionable enough to not want to look at my work!

Get a life, people
***********************************

Calm down Granny, you sound like you are about to stroke out.

[Amy]

Thank you for the apology and removing the guest desiner's layout. I think you have moved quickly and appropriately to rectify this situation and I will continue to purchase products from your company.

[cindy b]

KUDOS to MM for their classy response and their prompt attention to this matter!!

[Just Lulu]

You are the best MM, thanks for clearing the air!! :)

[kimbermcgray]

you guys are a class act. i will definitely continue to support making memories!

[Delaney Gates]

Such a classy company. :)

[clm]

Never, ever apologise for having a life outside of this industry. No one expected a respeonse before today. You took action on the first business day following the contoversy and that should be enough. It says a lot that you were ready to address the issue and not sweep it under the carpet and allowed your customers voice to be heard.

[angelag]

Just another example of why MM is a first-class company that I feel good for spending my money with.
No I don't think a criminal background check is necessary but when something like this comes to light, it's awesome that a company addresses it and does the right thing. Bravo!!

[Ching]

I had absolutely no doubt that Making Memories would handle this with professionally and appropriately, and with class. You have always been an upstanding company who has prized quality and customer service. I have TONS of MM products and will continue to proudly and gleefully purchase your products. Thank you for incorporating morals/ethics into your business practice.

[Wilna]

I LOVE LOVE LOVE Making Memories.
'nuff said.

Smiles
Wilna Furstenberg
xxx

[fran heupel]

You girls do an awesome job always. Thanks for taking time to post and handling this with such class and promptness Making Memories is awesome in everyway! Thanks for all you do.

[Katie Piotrowski]

Wow, I missed it too....I actually don't even remember a "Jennifer". I have to say that I think MM did the only thing they could've done. I was one who voted for guest designers and I'd hate to see it taken away this quickly. Thank you MM for addressing it in such a quick and professional manner. I hope to see more guest designers in the very near future. Katie

[Tona]

You gals & your company are great. You owe no apologies. You should not be held resposible for other's dishonesty. Keep up the good work.

[AmyInKy]

Thank you for addressing this issue in such a professional manner. I don't think it would be possible or necessary to do background checks for future submissions. I do however appreciate how you pulled the work after the incident was brought to your attention.

[Katie]

Thank you for handling this so well.

[A]

Thanks MM.

Timely,appropriate response and action have been taken by your company, which is against the norm in the industry as of late.

Too many people in this business are so quick to dismiss the dishonesty in order to promote a product and/or a "celeb".

If you run your business with integrity, your customers will notice and be repeat customers.

[tara pollard pakosta]

wow, i am impressed with your quick action and stellar behavior. Making Memories is one of my top fave scrap companies and this is just icing on the cake....
thanks for the way you handled this! and i too agree that we all know you have lives outside the blog and should not feel bad about anything that happened!!!!!!
take care!
tara

[corrina holloway]

You girls rock!!! When i first starting reading your post i thought for a minute you were getting ready to say you weren't going to continue the blog anymore. I am not 'up' (other then what i have read here) on what has happened but you girls are too hard on yourselves, go easy, hope your day improves somewhat!

[Julie]

As others have mentioned, as a reader, I wouldn't expect background checks to be performed on guest designers, and sincerely hope this does not deter you from featuring the many talented paper crafters who love and use MM products.

That said, I can also only applaud the highly professional manner in which you have approached a particularly difficult and unfortunate situation.

[KimmyS]

Ladies, please do not apologise for running a wonderful blog and for being part of a wonderful company.

It is a shame that one individual had to ruin it for some many other talented ladies and I feel so very sorry for MM having being dragged through this whole episode through no fault of theirs (or you ladies who run this blog amazingly)

[Sue]

Don't you all think that some of us are getting a "little nasty" with each other. Ok... so this Jennifer girl was dishonest... MM found out and took care of it. Lets all get off our high horses (like some others have already said) and move on. No appologies are needed from MM, I have submitted to countless sites and have had my stuff posted- I have yet to provide a background check or prove that I'm an upstanding citizen. Somehow I don't think that those of you who have acted "so shocked" and were ready to march in front of city hall to get this "resolved" have always led the perfect life. Remember, let the blamless throw the first stone. In other words, a sin or indiscretion is still that- big or small, we have all made them. MM is an awsome company regardless,I don't think this situation should impare thier abilty to host wonderful talent. Lets just all rise above this-no one needs to worry that kudos went to this Jennifer (apparently she was quickly found out), so who cares at this point! Lets find better stuff to chat about-K?

[alesk]

I think the explanation you've provided is good enough. In any system, there will always be someone trying to take advantage. It is sad to know the scrapbooking community is no exception to the rule.
Let's not forget: ***WHAT GOES AROUND COMES AROUND***

[Jacqui]

Congrats on informing us, your apology was most appreciated. I love this site and nothing would make me not read what you ladies have to offer, your design ideas and those of others.

[Patti]

I think this apology goes a long way. People were pretty upset this weekend on many sites because of this - it was mostly the timing and the magnitude of the theft. I think many people were upset mostly with the judge and his laughable sentance and then to see her being praised this weekend was a little much. I don't think anyone expects MM or any other company to do background checks. Keep up the great blog.

[Lotta]

Lets all get off our high horses (like some others have already said) and move on. No appologies are needed from MM, I have submitted to countless sites and have had my stuff posted- I have yet to provide a background check or prove that I'm an upstanding citizen. Somehow I don't think that those of you who have acted "so shocked" and were ready to march in front of city hall to get this "resolved" have always led the perfect life. Remember, let the blamless throw the first stone. In other words, a sin or indiscretion is still that- big or small, we have all made them.

*********************************

If anyone needs to get off their high horse, it's you. Don't ruin the good thing that MM did by downplaying the fact that a woman was found guilty of stealing over a quarter of a million dollars.

MM was put in a bad spot and they reacted quickly and efficiently to take care of it. They have shown respect for ethics and taken a stand against wrongdoing. Something that you could stand a lesson in.

The fact is that there are levels of wrongdoing - otherwise we give out tickets to murderers as well as speeders.

Just because you don't have a moral center, doesn't mean the rest of us have to lower our standards.

[Brenda]

Bravo to you, Jenny & Kelly, for taking such swift action. You are definitely a class act. I, too, agree that you shouldn't stop with the guest designers and you certainly don't need to do background checks. Fortunately, not everyone in this industry is a criminal like Jennifer or shady like the whole HOF fiasco. Keep up the good work, Ladies!

[Davinie]

I cannot believe that you feel like you need to defend yourself. How could you possibly know what someone has done in their past? You shouldn't have to do a background check to share a craft project.

That said, I applaud your actions now that you know a little more about the situation.

Making Memories is a class act!

[Christa]

Great work MM, truly a class act!!

[Deekaye]

Thank you MM for taking such swift action and pulling Jennifer from your blog. I would expect nothing less from a classy company like yours (and now I'm going to go play with my newly purchased MM scalloped paper!!).

[legallady]

I cannot believe how blown out of proportion this case has gotten (or the fact that it has crossed my life in a completely different manner). If only you knew how many of your allegations are unfounded, you would be ashamed at the words you speak. This woman did in fact commit a crime, but not nearly to the proportions that is being represented on this media or other sites. At the root of these lies is a woman whom the courts have never seen anyone with such gall, disorganization, litigious nature, and flat out misrepresentation. Just a reminder to hold your tongue before you pass judgement and to not believe everything you read, especially on blogs!

MM, you did what you had to given the ridiculous response to this. You obviously know how to run a business. I remember seeing her guest design and it definitely was representative of the creativity you encourage. I hope you continue welcoming guest designers.

[Jeana]

Thank-You for such a quick response. I'm very sorry that this has happened to you. I for one appreciate your response.

[Sue]

Boy Lotta, you must be pretty proud of your mean girl words! My moral center is quit in-tact. I was mearly pointing out that we should move on. If you actually read most of the responses, I'm not the only one who offered that MM didn't need to appologize. The issue was dealt with. I'm a manager at a major scrapbooking store- believe me, at this point in my career, I could have it all if I chose to steal from my store-I buy my stash just like the rest of you and NEVER suggested that this lady's behavior should be down played. Just the attitute of people like you. Maybe you need to go lie down for a while, you're making yourself look foolish as you're speaking about things and people you don't have all the facts about.

[Stephanie D.]

Thank you MM for handlng this situation in a professional manner.

[Michelle]

Thank you both for addressing this issue.

Like many of the posters this weekend, I don't expect you to do background checks, or never show work of a convicted felon...

But I appreicate that many of your fans and customers could share their disappointment (and I think it was not just that she was getting the publicity, but flaunting her good fortune, while just paying a pittance of what she owes to the people she stole from), and be heard and recognized. You did the right thing explaining the process, and removing her links. And to be honest, I think many of those posts this past weekend were people just so angry at the situation, and the pitiful judicial response, and you guys got the brunt of the anger.

Thank you for recognizing the situation, for not sweeping it under the rug, and just hearing us. I think many people will be very satisfied at the response. Also - I think some people felt that she was possibly being paid or given product by MM and that is why so many people were threatening to take their business elsewhere.

Again - thanks - and happy belated birthday to your children!!!

[Libby]

Thank-you, MM! You have earned me back as a customer.

I also don't feel you need to abandon your Guest Designer idea. No background checks are necessary - just prompt attention and removal if another felon happens to sneak its way into your website.

[Janice]

How do you all know this woman has a criminal background? This feels like a knee-jerk reaction and in poor taste for a large company. Do you get your info from anonymous blogs or message boards. No need to continue punishing this woman. I'm disappointed MM couldn't have handled this a little more discreetly. Why reinforce facts you know nothing about?

[Michelle]

Janice - all of the information that was posted was a matter of public record that showed what she had stolen, what the punishment was, how much she was ordered for restitution, and her full name. There was no guessing in this matter - it is not an internet rumor...

[crazyfunmom]

Everything that came up about Jennifer was PUBLIC knowledge. It can be found in newspapers and PUBLIC court documents. So check it out before you make a statement like that!
Yes, I agree that MM did a great job pulling her from their site. It was a very responsible thing to do.
However, the fact remains that this woman still used her kids to help her steal SCRAPBOOK supplies. Used her kids. Wow.

[Emily]

Thank you, you're a class act!

[Wendy C]

Thanks MM for handling this as professionally as possible. Please do not stop having guest designers. I do like the ideas stated to just make a statement about how you are not affiliated with that person. Thank you for the time it takes to even run this blog and keep up the good work.

[Carla]

Thank you for handling this so professionally MM.
Maybe we, meaning you all, should take some of this energy and praise some of the designers lO's...they deserve more comments than this entry!

[Dawn Bryson]

I just found this blog, and it sounds like somone made a big boo. I am glad you stood up for what is right, But, I hope it does not hurt others from trying to "shine". I hope that in the future this stuff does not happen, so that we can all share the hobby we so love.

[mary doak]

This is a blog that is free to posting creative art and should not be subject to your personal life. EVERY Person has made mistakes and should not matter in this blog. I come here to look at other peoples ideas and creativeness not at personal mistakes. Whatever, keep this blog going just the way it is.

[Sue]

Amen Mary!

[Sares]

I've got to say that as a scrapper from Australia I had not heard of this situation and I wonder at why you feel the need to apologise. I believe it was an honest effort on your part to promote eager scrappers and you have given everybody the benefit of the doubt regarding their background.
It's unfortunate that this has happened - you certainly wouldn't KNOWINGLY choose someone who has acted criminally - but let's move on with the stuff that scrapping is REALLY all about - sharing our lives, hearts and memories in a positive way.
You girls provide a lot of inspiration to others and let that be the thing you are remembered for.
Sares x

[Bethany]

Wow...it's hard to believe anyone would make such a fuss over this issue. I love MM products and really love the blog...whether or not you featured a designer with a criminal background does not affect my views of MM...just so you know. :)

[Robin M]

Thank you for continuing to be a classy company.
sorry that this happened to you.

[Allison]

Thank you MM-great decision. I am now going to buy more MM supplies=)

[melissa]

After reading the above and learning why MM did what they did I can only say thank you. Shame on that woman. She has made MM doubt one of my favorite features. Your honesty and attention to this matter and method of dealing with it are to be commended. Please do not feel you have done anything wrong by not acting sooner--you have only gained even more respect then you may have already had. Again thank you.

[Patti]

I want to add that I really hope you continue to have guest designers - I can't imagine this could happen again. It would be a real shame to let this one instance ruin it for the rest of the great designers out there. I think that you handled it very well. As soon as you could you deleted the post.

[Denise W.]

Thank you for your quick response and solution. I am not a frequent blog visitor, but I heard about this on other sites. I believe you did the right thing, but I hope you continue to feature guest's designs. I like the idea of a legal disclaimer -- you should not have to conduct background checks on customers!

[Sonja H.]

I'm so sorry to hear that this happened. I hope you will continue to feature guest designers. It's not your fault that someone behaves so unethically or that you didn't check into their history.

Most people do not exhibit such distasteful behaviors. I think it's a very sad day when we become so suspicious of everyone that there's a feeling that background checks should be done on everyone, because of the poor behavior of a few "bad seeds."

I am a former TV news reporter and know how skewed one's perspective can become by hearing so much bad news everyday. But I believe that most people are good people and should be given the benefit of the doubt.

[Lou]

Thank you Making Memories - this just shows what a professional company you are. Everyone can make mistakes but at least in stead of ignoring it or sweeping under the carpet you have addressed it. You have my respect for that. And I LOVE your products :)

Lou

[patti]

Thank you MM for your timely and appropriate action in response to this matter. I agree with other posters, that it was not necessary for MM to apologise (only remove the post), however I think it speaks volumes for your professionalism that you did apologise.

[carole]

Thank you Making Memories! You heard what we were saying and that is the most important thing (and you don't have to apologize for having a life outside this blog).

For the people who still don't understand why it mattered... go and inform yourself before saying "everyone has a past".

We don't ask the girl to stop scrapbooking, we don't want her to promote herself through it!
THANK YOU MM!

[Stacy]

Thank you! But please don't let one incident change your mind about guest designers. We understand you can't do background checks, nor is it reasonable for you to do so.
I am impressed with your well written letter and response in this matter. Criminal behavior should not be rewarded or encouraged. Obviously, giving this individual special attention would only victimize the business she hurt so ruthlessly.

[Michelle Gauthier]

This was just an unfortuante incident and in now way reflects on MM. No one expects you to run a background check. Just keep up the fabulous work and keep the inspiration coming. :)

[Carolyn]

Thank you MM for your timely and appropriate action in response to this matter. I agree with other posters, that it was not necessary for MM to apologise (only remove the post), however I think it speaks volumes for your professionalism that you did apologise.
*********************

totally agree 100%

And please do continue the guest designers, as others have said posting a disclaimer should be sufficient. One bad apple shouldn't ruin the great talent that you showcase and that is out there!

[Katie]

I also want to thank you for removing the offending person.
I agree we should be able to let people move on from their past but for a crime of this magnitude it is hard to.
Also if she had made a decent amount of restitution and wasn't bragging all over about the wonderful things she's bought and the "I just got to have it" attitude then we may be more adept at letting it go.
But a fine/restitution/costs of $270K with only $1700 paid (at $100 a month) so far doesn't seem to cut it.
I'm sure if you couldn't pay your mortgage and offered the bank $100 a month that they'd laugh in your face, this is what JS is doing to the owner she wronged.
MM was caught in a hard spot and appeared an enabler when it is clearly JS who has the problem.
Hopefully she'll crawl back under a rock until she's made a better job of restitution.

[Lisa in WA]

Awesome response, thank you!

[kateb]

While I commend MM for making the statement, I agree with most others that it wasn't really necessary, especially since they had no prior knowledge of the woman's past (2006)-It's not going to stop me from buying their products. At some point WE scrapbookers have to be accountable ourselves; these companies we endorse aren't judges or police-what happened to basic honesty? I don't think background checks are necessary to be guest DTs; after all, the company would only pass those costs on to us, the consumer. SO it happened and SO it wasn't really fixed-what can we do about it now? That woman needs to make good with the person she stole from and her own personal GOD-we don't have a thing to do with it anymore-let's get back to scrapping! Let it be a lesson to us that this is an HONEST industry and we'd like ot keep it that way-for most of us this is a stress reliever, a getaway, a time to create-don't let the foolish doings of 1 person change that.

[Anna Sigga]

I am truly sorry to hear about this unfortunate event here on the MM blog and I commend you for your statement.

Having said that I do not feel that Making Memories has done anything wrong here and in no way should this reflect on you as a company in any way. Unfortunately there will always be people who are dishonest but thankfully I know that most of the worlds scrapbookers are honest people.

Making Memories has and will continue to be a respectable and honest company in my eyes (and many others feel the same)and I hope you will continue to give your loyal readers/buyers th chance to shine on your blog.

Anna Sigga - Iceland

[M'lee]

I know what this is all about and I do not think you owe any one an apology for anything. You gave scrapbookers what they (we) asked for and it is a shame that a few disgruntled scrappers can ruin something for every one. Every one deserves a second chance - Period.

I would rather be inspired by one who is starting over in life than those who spend their lives looking for the bad around every corner.

Thank you for trying your best to please, but you will never be able to please every one.

[connie melancon]

I am sorry this has happened on MM BLOG, I don't fault MM or you for this and would never NOT BUY your product because this happened. You didn't know, found out and removed the post and posted. I enjoy the guest designers hope you can still have them.

[SuzyScrapper]

Does this mean I have to submit my rap sheet and driving record with my DT submissions? I would have been more impressed if they'd just removed the blog post without the long tedious explanation and apology.

[Mary Kay]

Very nicely handled. I'm impressed.

[kerry lynn]

just wanted to say i love mm and i love the mm blog. i hope one bad circumstance doesn't ruin how much amazing inspiration can be found here on a daily basis.
xo

[lois (katesmum]

I applaud you...trust is a key ingredient in this industry.

[MMfan]

Background checks, seriously? Every hear of Google? Would have saved you a lot of drama. I don't think ANYONE here expects you to do criminal background checks. Sheesh. Can we possibly make a bigger deal out of this?

[Jelly]

I think you have handled it really well. And I really do not expect anyone to work over the weekend.. keeping the blog updated would be a normal M-F 9-5 type of job, so I think you have responded in a timely manner.

It is very unfortunate that your featured guest designer had such a past, and I sincerely hope that she has made ammends with her former employer, apart from what the court has demanded. Our moral views can differ on this... but I think I am more bothered by the fact that her work seemed to have been scraplifted from another person, and if that is true she has forgotten to credit the person she lifted it from. More information can be found at the 2peas site, I believe there was a thread and comments on it...

I don't have any solutions to offer, maybe if you feel the guest designer spot should not have a place here, you can strengthen the user gallery on the MM site. Maybe sort it by products so people can see examples... that way, you don't have to deal with a single designer.. but have a variety of LOs to offer to customers as examples?

[StampinCathy]

I thought we were here to see creative and inspiring things. Doesn't everyone have something in their background? People need second chances and sometimes more. You can still count on me to hang around.

[cassie]

what? seriously? i don't expect you to know everything about a guest designer. I expect a guest designer to show really great pages/projects with your products. I skimmed the comments and came away with a vague idea of what happened. Wrongdoing should never condoned. But I don't believe that people should be condemned forever for mistakes that they make. Forgiveness is a wonderful thing. (and I have no idea when any of the crime occurred but I can only hope that she is able to move on in a positive manner in her life.)

[Sheryl]

Thanks for acting on this and don't feel a need to apologize for something that was out of your control. I think MM is the best blog to visit and hopefully this will become a past subject. Kudos to you both.

[Sonja H.]

I'm so sorry to hear that this happened. I hope you will continue to feature guest designers. It's not your fault that someone behaves so unethically or that you didn't check into their history.

Most people do not exhibit such distasteful behaviors. I think it's a very sad day when we become so suspicious of everyone that there's a feeling that background checks should be done on everyone, because of the poor behavior of a few "bad seeds."

I am a former TV news reporter and know how skewed one's perspective can become by hearing so much bad news everyday. But I believe that most people are good people and should be given the benefit of the doubt.

[jane fuehrer]

I am a friend of the person you are talking about. I think that you don't have to apologize about what has happen. No one here really knows what happen and she is a GREAT SCRAPBOOKER and has ever right to post her work. I think people out there judge way to quick before knowing the facts. Yes, I am going to take a second look before I buy your product or read your site. You to have judge her and don't know what REALLY HAPPEN. That is way you listen to others and took her WONDERFUL work off your site.

[jane fuehrer]

AS FOR THE COMMENT BEING SAID ABOUT HER using her KIDS THAT IS NOT TRUE..! She is a friend of mine and her kids play with mine. Unless you know her DON'T COMMENT THAT HER CHILDREN HAD SOMETHING TO DO WITH IT..!

WOW THEY ARE JUST KIDS! WOMEN GROW UP!

[Laura]

Kudos to you. I am never disappointed by MM's professionalism.

[Jennifer]

Aww! That is terrible you will discontinue the guest program! It is sad that one bad apple can ruin it for the majority. Please reconsider!

I think you did the right thing in removing her work once you found out that she is involved in a scandal. I think people are generally honest and in accepting guest positions, or any position for that matter, they should be upfront about such issues, especially if it could possibly affect the company she is guesting for. If she is still repaying the debt and the matter essentially has not been completely settled, then she should have revealed that to MM as a professional. Then MM could have made an informed decision about accepting her work or not.

I really do hope you reconsider and that you have faith in the rest of us that we will be honest if given the opportunity to be your guest!