Educate the Nation
(At left: President Woodrow Wilson and granddaughter Ellen Wilson McAdoo )
In 1945, an educational disparity was recognized. Professor Whitney Oates at Princeton notice that many bright and promising students that served our country in World War II were not returning to complete advanced degrees. When the ear of an important donor was bent, a plan was devised to attract returning G.I.’s to continue the advanced Ph.D.’s studies they left before.
At that time, the full scope of the G.I. education bill, its demand and use had not been realized. However, with this effort answered the shortage of folks with specialized degrees who could become the college professors of the future to handle the influx of the educational needs of the baby boom shortly later.
Through teaching fellowship programs through the Woodrow Wilson Foundation, named after the only Ph.D.-holding president, 13 future Nobel Laureates and 14 Pulitzer Prize winners received advanced degrees over the years.
Today, you can get a leg up, too. If you hold a degree in the sciences or mathematics, you can apply an receive a fellowship, teaching computers, teaching mathematics or other sciences, such as biology. If you do not currently hold a bachelor’s degree, you must be scheduled to graduate by June 2012 for this round. Selected fellows receive a $30,000 stipend to pursue a Master’s Degree.
What’s the catch? To apply, you need to have maintained a 3.0 grade point average on a 4.0 scale, and commit for three years to teaching computers, math or science to students in underserved areas where specialized teachers are needed most. The school might be in a rural area, or an area with a higher than average poverty ratio. After that, you may teach where you wish.
There is a cap of 30 teaching fellows per campus. Campuses of eligible schools are located in Michigan, Ohio and Indiana. You need not graduate with your bachelor’s from these institution, but you must consider completing your Master’s Degree there.
Are you ready to impact a few lives, an even the education of a nation? To apply, visit www.WWTeachingFellowshpo.org and have an impact on the future of science and technical education.
Uncategorized | Comment (0)Planning a Boardwalk Empire theme party for the season premiere
Guest post written by Janet Thomas
Thre are few occasions when it seems like I don’t really find an excuse to dress up. It’s so much fun and I’ve loved playing fashion and dress up since I was a littel kid. Well that’s definitely carried on into a lot of theme parties that I started having when I was in college and have just kind of continued over the years.
As you can probably guess, I really love following all of these costume period dramas and checkin gup on all hte different things that are going on with my new favorite show Boardwalk Empire with my wireless internet Chicago. It’s just so interesting to see and hear the things as they’re reimagined during that time.
I’m planning on throwing a Boardwalk Empire season premiere party. I think that it’s going to be so much fun and I already have a few great outfits from my Grandma that I’ve already picked out. Now finding vintage pieces from the 20s or that look like they belong in the 20s can be pretty tough, but that’s a challenge I love taking on.
1920s, entertainment | Comment (0)Jersey City: Grit and Suspense Minus the Big Hair
This post brought to you by Untitled Jersey City Project. All opinions are 100% mine.
Untitled Jersey City Project is a show that is currently a "work in progress." Eight very short fragments, or mini-episodes will be released. Unlike many other stories told in short bursts, there is no "pay off" at the end of each one. Rather, when you see all eight, everything comes together and makes sense. Some threads will be wrapped, but some will remain loose and hang in the wind for speculation. Once you have seen all eight episodes, things will come together and make better sense.
The only thing really graspable here is the tone and mood of the show, which now intrigues me to find out if this is just another cop or crime show presented in a gimmicky way or if it is the sign of something new. I am curious. While similar genres of hustling, grifting, crimes and the occasional cop might seem tired, the field is always open for something new. Just don't send us "Cop Rock" again. Please.
Recently, I considered how many shows were based in New Jersey and how many of them were petitioned for promoting a negatively gritty or tacky, depending upon the show, image of the state. No one is exactly producing the revival of "Touched by an Angel" there, or the "The Fashionably, yet Conservatively Dressed of New Jersey." I have been to Mawah and know people that do not wear cheetah platforms do exist. Really.
Furniture for 5 Year old Grown Ups
Ah, the furniture of youth. The 1950s Danish Modern dresser was so passe in the early 70s, such that it lived out its existence in my cousin’s room. It’s finished was slightly marred by the occasional Batman sticker, not discreetly affixed to a low corner like a maker’s mark, but smack-dab in the middle of the first or second drawer. Attempts to remove were met with bald wood or a papery footprint. There was no in between.
Karen Keane, expert over at the Antique Roadshow would just be gobsmacked. Apparently she is not quite that flappable. It relieves me to hear her say: “The trade market is filled with compromised pieces,” and doesn’t seem to poo-poo them for daily use. Faded paint is apparently a beauty mark, but she says nothing about Batman.
No one ever seemed to have “kid furniture” in my family. You had a crib. When you were old enough, you got you mom and dad’s or cousin’s cast off set. No race car beds. Oh, but occasional bunk beds. We were the original urbane hipster babies.
I was reminded how urbane we all were as tots when I perused The RoomPlace furniture stores website and inspected the comforting selection of bunk and Captain’s Beds. I always wanted a Captain’s Bed with all the drawers, but I was too much of a packrat and I spawned from those types of parents that thought a five year old would fall to their death in one. But that is what the metal slide-in railing that we could get our head caught in was for, no? My cousins were the lucky ducks. As the third born on that side of the family, there was still one random dresser and head board left. As fourth born my cousin, M, had bunks. We were all very close in age, so there was no chance of a hand me down from an older cousin. By the fourth, it was time for new furniture.
Further into my journey on the website, I came across something more familiar. The “five year old adult” decor I was so accustomed to
My brother had a bachelor pad-ish black lacquer set that had been an uncle’s during his heyday. Now, its gone through a major transformation and it seems it is back at a retailer – but this time marketed specifically to kids. Well, not to kids. Whoever has the check book. In many ways, it makes sense to create furniture to follow the child into the teens and kick all the pieces out the door with them when they leave.
Maybe the folks at the The RoomPlace furniture stores have the right idea. After that, your cinema room or hobby room is right around the corner without adding on.
Stuff for the Pad | Comment (0)A Clean Student Body: Your Classmates Thank You
This post brought to you by TRESemmé. All opinions are 100% mine.
The VintageGent-ette fondly recalls college life:
"Twice a week for three hours at a pop, I had movement class where we learned not to grace the stage like a total clod. We learned ballet, basic social dance forms for ballroom scenes, stage combat and how to relate movement to a specific character. I always dreaded it when by week five we were paired up with a partner unless it was at the beginning of the week.
I could only pray, since there were more girls than guys, that I was paired up with a girl. It was harder to learn both the male and female part of the dance to be able to switch, but at least the girls showered. My guy classmates seemed to clean up for mom and dad on the weekend but as the week rolled on, they were big grease balls. Why do guys do this when they first go to college? Are they saying 'whoopee…mom's not around to make me wash?' "
It sounds like a little TRESemmé Fresh Start Dry Shampoo would have made college memories here at the 'Daily a little less fragrant. Granted, it doesn't do anything for the rest of your body, but if one is blessed with thick hair or a broken hairdryer, it can seem a little less attractive to jump in the tub on a chilly day. When the hair is taken care of, maybe jumping in and aiming the spigot as to not wet your head sounds achievable. How does dry shampoo work? Here are some tips:
- Start off with dry, not damp, hair.
- Lift each section of your hair and aim at the roots. Spray the product in bursts. Do not continuously spray like hairspray.
- Allow the product to dry for a minute or two.
- Work the dry shampoo through with your fingers.
- Voila. Style as usual.
Don't stop shampooing your hair with wet shampoo in the shower for life. Please shower. It is meant to work in a pinch or in between washings, or when you for the months still walking around in that cast after you dropped your partner in class and she drop kicked you for doing so.
Elle Fowler has some tips on the Top Hair Products for School. Ladies, you can apply some of her organizing tips to not just the dorm, but to roommate situations. Guys, skip the flower tote, but some of the styling products as well as the prep for the community bathroom at the dorm, apply to you.
Meet and Greet Your (Online) Shop Customers
Tsz-Chiu Au wrote a detailed report for the University of Maryland Computer Department on “Guidelines of Online Help Design, E-mail Help Methods and Online Customer Service for Website Developers.” What does this have to do with you? Well, your website hawking 17th century sideboards, reproduction spats or 1950s bowling shoes should not be antiquated in its FAQ or ordering process. According to the paper, an important goal of any website is to “Anticipate problems users may encounter and prepare solutions.” If folks ask the same question over and over about how they pay for that snazzy sharkskin suit, don’t take on an indignant attitude. There is probably something lacking from your written instructions or FAQ. In the cases that it things are quite well spelled out, providing a clear method for a customer to receive additional assistance is imperative. Don’t just say “If they really want it, they’ll email me.”
A few websites I frequent have a “chat” feature. There is no communication with a live person. Rather, a question is punched in and information from the FAQ and Help sections spit back at you. Usually, the site “names” the fake representative, such as PayPal’s Sarah.
I had a little fun with Sarah earlier today.
Unlike the PayPal set up, there is software for customer support that offers a more interactive chat feature where a live person can actually come on the line I learned a lot about what actually goes on behind the scenes today. Could it be something that would help with conversion for your clothing or vintage retail site? Read on to decide.
Usually, the interactive feature is designated by a phone icon or a photo of a female or male operator. Once a site visitor clicks, they are automatically greeted. An automated message might welcome the visitor to the site. What happens next is determined by the questions asked. If the question is simple and fairly standard, pre-scripted information might be returned. However, if the question is not typical, a live person could come on the line seamlessly. In fact, a live person may already be there monitoring the conversation, but the automated messages such as “Let me look that up for you…” or even the canned info buys a rep the time they need to talk to two customers at once.
In a dashboard panel, a website owner or customer service officer can see who is visiting their site. They don’t know your name, but they know what terms you searched to arrive at the site, what country or state you are in and what page you are viewing. If you have filled your online cart, but appear to be walking away from the site, a rep can chime in and ask if you have any questions.
If the site owner is you, you might be able to answer a question or two that might help close the sale or at least remove any frustration a potential customer has about not finding their size or with navigation. Is it annoying to a customer or does this sort of software for customer support help your shoppers out? Try it next time you are on a retail site that offers the feature, looking at it now knowing how it works. If I sprung for that on this blog, the fashion tips might be dangerous. It is sort of old fashioned — actually talking to your customers.
This is completely nontraditional for a site that sells antiques or retro or collectible clothing, but could you imagine tapping away at the keyboard and being open and available to go grab that extra measurement for that customer? Sure, you might think they would email you, but some folks want instant gratification or they just are too timid to ask. Or they are having problem with their email server at the moment. Simple questions could be immediately answered without your involvement at all, but you could step in at a moment’s notice.
Some merchants give out their Skype or their cell phone, but they can easily be caught off guard on a family picnic. Would a chat assistant that is “on” when you are “on” give you a better work/life or better shop for vintage clothing and antiques/sell vintage clothing and antiques balance?
shop talk, the business of vintage | Comment (0)Let Iconic Images Lend You a Hand
Just scanning around http://www.savings.com again for any missed discounts before I take the plunge into stocking the supply closet. While the user-submitted coupon codes for Bed Bath & Beyond don’t surprise me, discounts at Getty Images turned my head. Getty licenses many historical and editorial images, including some iconic photos you’ve invariably seen in vintage issues of Life magazine.
While there are many places to buy images on posters, on their site you can purchase the rights to iconic photos to use in your print magazine, commercial advertising pitch or book. Imagine making an advertisement with Cary Grant wearing the same style of 1930s or 1940s tuxedo you have for sale in your shop. Each photo carries a variety of prices depending on whether its used for an editorial article or a company’s advertisement. Then add in circulation or media type.
The coupon codes on Savings.com appear to not be too terribly old. There are discounts for first time customers, 20% off sport imagery, percentages off music footage and more. Click on the “Add Coupon” button after the description for each offer and the discount should appear in the shopping cart at Getty with a qualifying purchase. Be sure to assign feedback and give a deal a thumbs up or down if it worked, or did not.
If you are not in the market for media, surely you can hunt down a discount for school supplies, jewelry or clothing that will earn you your own iconic moment…like that famous sailor or nurse.
Uncategorized | Comment (0)Be Lady Luck
This post brought to you by Express. All opinions are 100% mine.
Calling all ladies! I have mentioned the great Express giveaway, but wanted to make sure you all knew that it wasn't just a man's game. Among the 50 winners that will receive a pair of jeans, women's jeans are most definitely included. Each winner may choose whichever style of jeans they like. Surely, it is best to visit an Express location to find out what your best size and fit in Express jeans are. Each of the styles has a slightly different cut, so you are sure to find one that flatters.
For ladies, the flare jean is considered on the roster of classic styles, and works with high heels as well as platforms. Hem them as you would hem dressy slacks with or without a break. The jean leggings might have been a disaster that is often mocked on men on this site, but for ladies who have been accustomed to stretch pants over the years, they work in the right "environment." Consider them a legging with long sweaters and blazers, rather than your go-to pant with cropped tops or t-shirts. Otherwise they can look like you are trying to fit into your little sister's clothes.
So, "Like" Express on Facebook and give it a try, Lady Luck. You could be a winner with a free pair of jeans…or buy a pair of jeans that finally flatters.
What flavor of jeans would you pick? Comment, or send me a telegram, to let me know.
Miss Missoni for Target? A Vintage Redux
As anyone who checks their RSS feed or news sites knows, the Missoni for Target line sold out within hours in stores in many major markets. Early adopters are recycling their duplicates on eBay for a quick buck or two. Were you hankering for a dress, a tie or the coveted Missoni throw blanket? Reports are that some items, such as childrens items and accessories can still be had at certain stores.
Did anyone at the ‘Daily push through the crowds?
No matter what the style is that everyone has to have, on someone that it doesn’t quite suit, it looks as if a hat, tie or dress is coming at you from down the hall, rather than someone cutting out a fashionable figure. When someone stops saying, “You look great,” and replaces it “Here comes that dress again.,” or “Drive by again. You can’t miss that suit,” then you have to do a bit of a review. Though I have some friends that can rock it, but one bit of feeling you are wearing someone else’s skin and it just doesn’t work. The VintageGent=ette’s petite frame and seemingly opposite skin undertone than the current colors that are flattered was overwhelmed. Still, I do have a hankering for some scarves, ties and stationary if the afterglow, after crowd scavenger hunt is a success. The only disappointment is that there are many, many items Made in China, but that seems par for the course.
Are you, too, dreaming of zig zags but are not quite got the gumption to shell out lots of cash on eBay? Look no further than items inspired by Missoni the first time around. One of the most coveted items was and is the Missoni throw blanket. Well, feast a gander here. At left, is the true Target throw. Next to it are several vintage afghans from the 1970s with the undoubted trend for zigzags created the first time around when Missoni was something very new:
The three blankets to the right were made by hand in the 1970s and are available from Etsy sellers right now, unless they sell out of course. I was not able to see and touch the Missoni blanket, but can say some of these undiscovered hand made wonders were usually made to stand the test of time, long after trends change.
From left to right (Target – as much as $177.50 on eBay, Afghan from HammerAndZipper – $85.00, Afghan by BytheWaySide - $40.00, Crocheted Zig Zag from KPDreams – $34.99).
Sure, you can go out and buy vintage Missoni clothing, but if you find that untouchable, here is a way to get the look in your home without feeling you are buying designer knockoffs. Handmade pieces from yesteryear may be inspired by the trends of the day but they are truly one of kinds. Just instead of it being draped over a settee at Grandma’s house, they’ll be on the beds of trendsters and fashionistas, if that term isn’t passe.
auctions, designers, modern fashion, Stuff for the Pad | Comments (3)Tune Togs: 40s Does 90s
It is very common to see items described as “40s does 90s,” meaning an item that was made in the 1990s that has some design details that evoke styling from the 1940s. Have you ever seen an item made in the 40s that was inspired by the 90s?
1890s that is.
I recently came acrossed this 1947 ad for “Tune Togs,” a resort and beachwear line that featured novelty prints. The illustrations dramatized a different song from the “Gay 90s.” This one features the tune “By the Sea.” Did you know that song was that old? Promotional song books were made to advertise the line.
If you have “Tune Togs,” I would love to see photos of them. Post a picture url in comments to share with readers, or email me. The ad was found in Fairchild’s Menswear, their March 1947 issue, which is a publication to the clothing industry. It sure makes me long for the days of summer. Even though I am not much of a shorts person, I could use a warm day or two about now. Of course, I would just complain that I have to put the wool stuff away that I like so much.
1940s, vintage ads | Comment (0)If the Jeans Fit…Win It!
This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Express for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.
There is still time to win a pair of Express jeans in their giveaway. Express is picking 50 lucky guys and gals to win a pair of jeans in the cut of their choice. For men, their two signature looks include the Kingston, which is a classic fit and the Rocco, which has a slim fit. What is classic nowadays anyway? I have thumbed through catalogs of today and of yore and the items touted as "classic looks" look quite dated, as it is the time's interpretation of a classic look. In a "classic" jean, at least we have the original image to go on since they were only invented in the 1800s and not 1,000 years ago. Classic means enough room in the seat to not have your gluteous maximus escape from your waist band when you sit down, nor trip you in large bolts of fabric when you walk with purpose.
The slim fit in men's jeans according to Express's Rocco is not an uncomfortable jegging but merely a cut that eliminates excess fabric. It is more of a straight leg, than finishing in a very subtle flair to accommodate a boot. What is extra nice is Express lists the measurements of the leg openings so you can make an honest assessment of your slim jean worthiness before ordering them. Any guy is worthy, I suppose, but will they fit? Yeah, don't bog things down with explanations on how they will transform one's knees, height or buttocks…just give us the stats!
Which would you choose, if given the chance? Wander over to Express' Facebook page to enter.
Let The World Know, Vintage Sellers: Advertise on the Air
When I was more active as a vintage clothing merchant (still am, re-launch coming soon), I wondered why more shops and online sellers didn’t take advantage of promotional or advertising opportunities. While some of my colleagues really only wanted their business to be a small hobby they could choose to work on or not, and they couldn’t handle the increased demand, others came across with either a poverty mentality or an elitist attitude. They just didn’t want the “public” to paw through their wares, or more so, thought people just wouldn’t know how to appreciate them properly. Well, I’ve got some news. Vintage clothing has become very popular either from the perspective of being a frugal option, or to mimic the selections of the stars. What better way to educate people to NOT stuff themselves in a fragile antique World War I flight suit that is ten sizes too small, or to appreciate the workmanship of a forty year old designer gown than to create your own platform.
Of course, except for the occasional upscale consignment slash vintage shop slash antique store in a highly commercial touristy formerly quaint village, the niche is absent from the airwaves. It is daunting, I will admit, once you search talent and put some sort of script together. There are media production companies, such as Studio Center, that pull it all together for you. The field is wide-open being that no antique establishment or antique shop has really come up with a memorable ad campaign locally or otherwise.
Did you know that there is such thing as an “Anti-Announcer?” An “Anti-Announcer”-type sounds like a regular person rather than a Don Pardo/Ed McMahon/Don LaFontaine type. (You know the late Don LaFontaine for his dramatic move trailer work. “In a world where…”). Don’t confuse this with pulling your neighbor’s attractive granddaughter into the shop. What we may think of as a “normal/regular voice” doesn’t always translate the same on the reel. We all have different speaking habits, some of which are unnoticeable to us in daily speech, but are glaring on play-back. A voice actor (or actress, though I consider “actor” unisex) classified as a “non announcer” is articulate, but doesn’t have the timber or formality of delivery as a traditional announcer.
So, take a plunge? Being “traditional” and “classic” doesn’t mean people shouldn’t know who you are.
Uncategorized | Comment (0)
