Friday, December 28, 2007
New Degrees Available For Graphic Novelists
This article may be of some interest to those interested in comics and their rise in popularity. Carol Tyler is a professional cartoonist and graphic novelist, and she began teaching a comics art class last year at the University of Cincinnati. Hers is one of several such classes that have been added to fine arts curriculums as academic respect has grown for the graphic novelist community. “Schools are now recognizing the creative and commercial value of comic books,” Tyler said. “An interest in comics and cartooning doesn't have to be a secret any more.” Demand is growing for entry into the already established courses, and some schools are having to implement waiting lists to take classes. For example, The Savannah College of Art and Design offered comics art in 1992 as an elective to a handful of students. The school now has nearly 300 undergraduates and 50 graduate students pursuing bachelor's and master's degrees in sequential art, also known as comics art. Now as a young comics collector, the opportunity to pursue a career in their field of interest is becoming more attainable. Check out the rest of the article here for more information.
Time To Organize Holiday Gifts
Hello iTaggit friends,
I hope you all had a wonderful holiday season! I was very pleased when some of my items from my iTaggit wish list appeared under the tree this year. I especially look forward to setting up my new green iPod mini! I hope all of you comic collectors out there received some great collectible additions, all of you antique and art aficionados acquired new pieces to be displayed in your homes, and of course all of you entertainment enthusiasts added new games, music, and dvds to your shelves, but all of you must be sure and add them to your iTaggit collection and share them with the rest of our community! There's no time like the present to get started on your birthday wish lists, and our Gallery is a great place to find ideas. I look forward to seeing what you all add, ask us if you need your collections valued, and I hope you have a happy new year!
UN Joins Forces With Marvel Comics
Any comics collector might find this an interesting idea for modern times. In a move reminiscent of story-lines developed during the second world war, the UN is joining forces with Marvel Comics, creators of Spider-Man and the Incredible Hulk, to create a comic book showing the international body working with superheroes to solve bloody conflicts and rid the world of disease. The comic, initially to be distributed free to US schoolchildren, will be set in a war-torn fictional country and feature superheroes such as Spider-Man working with UN agencies such as Unicef and the “blue hats”, the UN peace-keepers. Camilla Schippa, chief of office at the UN Office for Partnerships, told the Financial Times the script was being written now and the final storyline was due to be approved in February. The cartoonists are working for free. After publication in the US, the UN hopes to translate the comics into French and other languages and distribute them elsewhere, Ms Schippa said. Although the UN did not come up with the initiative, the measure could help revive the body’s troubled image in the US, where relations have been strained.
The latest UN initiative is not the first time US comics have been used for political purposes. During the second world war, superheroes were shown taking on Germany’s Nazi regime. Marvel’s Captain America, together with other characters such as Superman, were shown beating up Adolf Hitler.
The UN’s goals are somewhat different: according to its website, it hopes the comics will teach children the value of international co-operation and sensitize them to the problems faced in other parts of the world. Click here to read the rest of the original article.
The latest UN initiative is not the first time US comics have been used for political purposes. During the second world war, superheroes were shown taking on Germany’s Nazi regime. Marvel’s Captain America, together with other characters such as Superman, were shown beating up Adolf Hitler.
The UN’s goals are somewhat different: according to its website, it hopes the comics will teach children the value of international co-operation and sensitize them to the problems faced in other parts of the world. Click here to read the rest of the original article.
SPLASTK - First Web Syndicated Comic Book Fueled Video Network
Platinum Studios, Inc., an entertainment company that controls an independent library of comic book characters from all over the world,
and Comflix Studios, Inc., a Los Angeles and New York based multi-media company, have created "Splastk," the first web syndicated on-demand video network featuring free comic book-inspired animated content powered by the Splastk player and anchored by http://www.Splastk.com.
"Adding a dynamic element to the static print comic is the specialty of Comflix Studios," said Platinum Studios President, Brian Altounian. The partnership supplies targeted premium content while enhancing the overall experience for the comics collector looking to find something new. The customized Java-based player, compatible with any web browser, will host original material as well as aggregate content from multiple sources to deliver video simultaneously to a growing network of pop culture sites. Splastk animated videos are free to site users and are sponsored by brief, pre-roll targeted advertisements.
The network is currently anchored by a number of sites centered around
the web-comics community including http://www.DrunkDuck.com, http://www.comflix.net, http://www.comics2film.com, http://www.topwebcomics.com, http://www.keentoons.com, and http://www.smackjeeves.com. The wide range of titles and themes in the Platinum Studios Comics library are coupled with the production capabilities of Comflix. Current available video titles on the Splastk player include Dracula vs. King Arthur and The Last Sin of Mark Grimm from Comflix Studios, as well as Dylan Dog and Sidekicks from Platinum Studios. Upcoming planned productions include adaptations of Platinum's Hero By Night series and Cowboys & Aliens. For more information, click here for the original press release in it's entirety.
and Comflix Studios, Inc., a Los Angeles and New York based multi-media company, have created "Splastk," the first web syndicated on-demand video network featuring free comic book-inspired animated content powered by the Splastk player and anchored by http://www.Splastk.com. "Adding a dynamic element to the static print comic is the specialty of Comflix Studios," said Platinum Studios President, Brian Altounian. The partnership supplies targeted premium content while enhancing the overall experience for the comics collector looking to find something new. The customized Java-based player, compatible with any web browser, will host original material as well as aggregate content from multiple sources to deliver video simultaneously to a growing network of pop culture sites. Splastk animated videos are free to site users and are sponsored by brief, pre-roll targeted advertisements.
The network is currently anchored by a number of sites centered around
the web-comics community including http://www.DrunkDuck.com, http://www.comflix.net, http://www.comics2film.com, http://www.topwebcomics.com, http://www.keentoons.com, and http://www.smackjeeves.com. The wide range of titles and themes in the Platinum Studios Comics library are coupled with the production capabilities of Comflix. Current available video titles on the Splastk player include Dracula vs. King Arthur and The Last Sin of Mark Grimm from Comflix Studios, as well as Dylan Dog and Sidekicks from Platinum Studios. Upcoming planned productions include adaptations of Platinum's Hero By Night series and Cowboys & Aliens. For more information, click here for the original press release in it's entirety.
Mint Offers Peek at Next Dollar Coins
Coming soon on new presidential dollar coins - Old Hickory, Old Kinderhook, Old Man Eloquent and the Last of the Cocked Hats. The U.S. Mint, the maker of the nation's coins, unveiled yesterday the stately images of the next four presidents whose faces will appear on the front of the shiny gold-colored dollar coins next year. James Monroe, John Quincy Adams, Andrew Jackson and Martin Van Buren will be the new additions to the presidential dollar coin series that started with George Washington in February. The presidential dollar series is modeled on the Mint's popular 50-state quarter program, which lured millions of Americans into becoming coin collectors. More than 800 million presidential coins were put into circulation in 2007, the Mint said. Those first four coins carried the images of Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson and James Madison.
Monroe, the nation's fifth president who was nicknamed the Last of the Cocked Hats - a reference to the hat worn by soldiers of the American revolution - will be the first of the 2008 presidential coins. The Monroe dollar coin will come out Feb. 14.
Adams, the country's sixth president was nicknamed Old Man Eloquent because of his long speeches. The Adams coin will be put into circulation May 15.
The dollar coin bearing the likeness of Old Hickory, the moniker for seventh president Andrew Jackson because of his leadership in the War of 1812, will be rolled out Aug. 14.
The Van Buren dollar coin, honoring the eighth president, will come out Nov. 13. One of Van Buren's nicknames was Old Kinderhook, a reference to his hometown in New York.
Like the quarters, the dollar coins will feature changing designs - four new presidents each year in the order they served in office. The president's faces are on the front of the coins, while the backs feature the Statue of Liberty. Some of the lettering, including "In God We Trust," was moved to the edge of the coins. For more information, check out the original article here. It is easy to use iTaggit to organize collections of coins as well as value your collectibles. Just add them into our “What's My Item Worth” collection, or try out our new Live Assist feature for instant help.
Monroe, the nation's fifth president who was nicknamed the Last of the Cocked Hats - a reference to the hat worn by soldiers of the American revolution - will be the first of the 2008 presidential coins. The Monroe dollar coin will come out Feb. 14.Adams, the country's sixth president was nicknamed Old Man Eloquent because of his long speeches. The Adams coin will be put into circulation May 15.The dollar coin bearing the likeness of Old Hickory, the moniker for seventh president Andrew Jackson because of his leadership in the War of 1812, will be rolled out Aug. 14.The Van Buren dollar coin, honoring the eighth president, will come out Nov. 13. One of Van Buren's nicknames was Old Kinderhook, a reference to his hometown in New York.Like the quarters, the dollar coins will feature changing designs - four new presidents each year in the order they served in office. The president's faces are on the front of the coins, while the backs feature the Statue of Liberty. Some of the lettering, including "In God We Trust," was moved to the edge of the coins. For more information, check out the original article here. It is easy to use iTaggit to organize collections of coins as well as value your collectibles. Just add them into our “What's My Item Worth” collection, or try out our new Live Assist feature for instant help.
Rare 'Jenny' Stamp Sells for $825,000
I found a great story this morning by the Associated Press about one of
the most famously flawed stamps in U.S. History. The “Inverted Jenny” sold for $825,000 to a New York collector who lost an auction last month in which another “Inverted Jenny” sold for $977,500. The rare 1918 24-cent stamp, depicting an upside-down Curtis JN-4 biplane known as “Jenny” is one of the finest known surviving stamps from the original sheet of 100 misprints. The original 100 were bought at a Washington, D.C., post office in 1918. “This is the Rolls-Royce,” said Randy Shoemaker, founder of Professional Stamp Experts. “It's the most expensive airmail stamp in the world.”
Post your stamp collection on iTaggit, and then add them to our “What's My Item Worth” category if you're curious about your collection's value.
the most famously flawed stamps in U.S. History. The “Inverted Jenny” sold for $825,000 to a New York collector who lost an auction last month in which another “Inverted Jenny” sold for $977,500. The rare 1918 24-cent stamp, depicting an upside-down Curtis JN-4 biplane known as “Jenny” is one of the finest known surviving stamps from the original sheet of 100 misprints. The original 100 were bought at a Washington, D.C., post office in 1918. “This is the Rolls-Royce,” said Randy Shoemaker, founder of Professional Stamp Experts. “It's the most expensive airmail stamp in the world.”Post your stamp collection on iTaggit, and then add them to our “What's My Item Worth” category if you're curious about your collection's value.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Gone Wishing- Wish List Contest Leaders *Only 1 Week Left
Here are today’s top 5 users in the Gone Wishing- Wish List Contest. The top 3 users who create the longest wish list by December 26 will win an item of their choice from their wish list. Start adding items today to win the gifts you don’t get for the holidays! Click here for more contest info.
Top 5 “Gone Wishing- Wish List” Contest Leaders:
1. olokin
2. ClaudeC
3. svs8764
4. nikxmarie
5. Ash1542
Add items faster using our Amazon feature. Here's how:
1. Click the orange Add new Item button.
2. Click Import From Amazon.
3. Enter the name of the items you want and search.
4. Click Add. Make sure to add it to your wish list.
*If you have items in your wish list that you already own or that have multiple entries, please be sure to move them into another collection. We do not want any one to lose out because their items were not eligible.
Art And Antiques Dubai
Indian jewelry, boxes, weaponry, textiles, and vintage photography will be featured at the debut of the “Art and Antiques Dubai” show in
Madinat Jumeirah. The event will showcase over $200 million worth of art spanning from ancient times to present day, and developing through history according to the religious, political, and cultural emphasis of the times. There has been a rise in demand for 17th-20th century Indian jewelry among collectors all over the world due to the scarcity of Mughal jewelry made for the Mughal emperors. The pieces feature priceless stones such as Burmese rubies and Golconda diamonds from the earliest producing diamond 
mines in the world. Other featured items include an 18thth century Mughal colombian emerald armbands, an antique fly whisk set with precious stones, jewelled dagger handles, and fighting knives of steel inlaid with gold.
For more information on “Arts and Antiques Dubai”, visit Haughton International Fairs.
Madinat Jumeirah. The event will showcase over $200 million worth of art spanning from ancient times to present day, and developing through history according to the religious, political, and cultural emphasis of the times. There has been a rise in demand for 17th-20th century Indian jewelry among collectors all over the world due to the scarcity of Mughal jewelry made for the Mughal emperors. The pieces feature priceless stones such as Burmese rubies and Golconda diamonds from the earliest producing diamond mines in the world. Other featured items include an 18thth century Mughal colombian emerald armbands, an antique fly whisk set with precious stones, jewelled dagger handles, and fighting knives of steel inlaid with gold.For more information on “Arts and Antiques Dubai”, visit Haughton International Fairs.
The Marvel Comics Summit
Did you know that all of the creative minds behind the Marvel Universe are meeting up this very minute (if you are reading this between 9:00am and 4:00pm EST) to discuss the fate of your favorite comics' characters? Well I didn't until this morning, so I found these updates through out the day very helpful in keeping up. Here's their example of what happens in the Hulk Room:
"What exactly happens at a Creative Summit? Here's the setting: A huge room with tables arranged in a giant square. In the front of the room, a giant chart hangs – broken up by Marvel publishing groups (Marvel Universe Heroes, Ultimate Universe, X-Men and Spider-Man) and then by months (January 2008 – July 2009). Editor-in-Chief, Joe Quesada, and President/Publisher Dan Buckley sit side by side. To their left moving around the circle (ok, square) is Matt Fraction, Ed Brubaker, C.B. Cebulski, Dan Slott, Executive Editor Tom Brevoort, Brian Michael Bendis, a slew of Marvel editors, Greg Pak, more Marvel editorial staff – hello Ralph Macchio – and then Jeph Loeb, Allan Heinberg and more editors and staff than you can shake a Donald Blake walking stick at! So, you can imagine the ideas whirling around the room – and whirl they did…"
Click here for a direct link to the constantly updating page and don't forget to manage your collectibles with iTaggit. Enjoy Marvel fans!
"What exactly happens at a Creative Summit? Here's the setting: A huge room with tables arranged in a giant square. In the front of the room, a giant chart hangs – broken up by Marvel publishing groups (Marvel Universe Heroes, Ultimate Universe, X-Men and Spider-Man) and then by months (January 2008 – July 2009). Editor-in-Chief, Joe Quesada, and President/Publisher Dan Buckley sit side by side. To their left moving around the circle (ok, square) is Matt Fraction, Ed Brubaker, C.B. Cebulski, Dan Slott, Executive Editor Tom Brevoort, Brian Michael Bendis, a slew of Marvel editors, Greg Pak, more Marvel editorial staff – hello Ralph Macchio – and then Jeph Loeb, Allan Heinberg and more editors and staff than you can shake a Donald Blake walking stick at! So, you can imagine the ideas whirling around the room – and whirl they did…"
Click here for a direct link to the constantly updating page and don't forget to manage your collectibles with iTaggit. Enjoy Marvel fans!
The Dark Knight Trailer And Analysis!
It's here! It's here! The Dark Knight Trailer is here! Ok, it was leaked
earlier this week, but that won't stop me from watching it again and again. Click here for a great article outlining the trailer from MTV.com, as well as the trailer itself. They also have the leaked version on several of their other pages for your viewing pleasure. If you are lost, The Dark Knight is the sequel to the smash hit Batman Begins, based off the DC Batman comic books. I've outlined what is known about the movie in my blog The Dark Knight and have included in it some trivia about the filming. Enjoy Batman fans!!! Remember, if you're curious about the value of your collections, Batman or otherwise, add them into our What's My Item Worth collection and we will do our best to estimate it.
earlier this week, but that won't stop me from watching it again and again. Click here for a great article outlining the trailer from MTV.com, as well as the trailer itself. They also have the leaked version on several of their other pages for your viewing pleasure. If you are lost, The Dark Knight is the sequel to the smash hit Batman Begins, based off the DC Batman comic books. I've outlined what is known about the movie in my blog The Dark Knight and have included in it some trivia about the filming. Enjoy Batman fans!!! Remember, if you're curious about the value of your collections, Batman or otherwise, add them into our What's My Item Worth collection and we will do our best to estimate it.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
The Bag Lady's Collection
They say one person's trash is another's treasure, but check out the level to which this "bag lady" has taken collecting to in THIS VIDEO.
Its going to take me a few times to try to catch all of the things she has compiled in her house. I did not see any memorabilia, antiques, or comics which are usually included in some form or another in an avid collectors keepings, but that's not to say they aren't there. See what all you can spot.
Its going to take me a few times to try to catch all of the things she has compiled in her house. I did not see any memorabilia, antiques, or comics which are usually included in some form or another in an avid collectors keepings, but that's not to say they aren't there. See what all you can spot.
Successful First Year Paves Way for Continued Growth of iTaggit
Austin, TX (PRWEB) December 19, 2007 –- Continuing to lead as an online environment for cataloging, managing and sharing collections of items, iTaggit today announced that its number of users has grown over 200 percent since July 2007. This user growth has led to site traffic more than doubling in the past four months.
The growth in iTaggit members and site traffic can be attributed to strong member word-of-mouth about the site, the creation of a new Facebook application, a partnership with eBay, and improved functionality of iTaggit’s site.
 The success of iTaggit can be contributed to the overwhelming need for an easy-to-use service that helps individuals organize and manage their things  |
Most recently, the iTaggit Wishlist feature, developed just in time for the holiday season, lets users add, tag and share gift ideas with friends. Additionally, the new iTaggit Facebook application allows users to display up to six collections on their Facebook profile, including the Wishlist. Each time a user adds new items to their collections an update is posted in the Facebook News Feed. For MySpace users, iTaggit introduced a feature that lets them easily add their favorite items on their MySpace page.
Another key enhancement made in 2007 was the eBay listing capability. The eBay function allows users to quickly post items to an existing eBay account or create a new eBay account from within the iTaggit interface. This tool helps users more efficiently organize, document and now sell items online.
Over the course of the last year, the community-based iTaggit has also added tools such as importing, exporting and personal blogging to allow its members to share their collections with the community. These features give members the ability to exchange their collecting experiences and niche-specific advice to help build a community atmosphere. Furthermore, iTaggit has incorporated sleeker design elements and simpler site navigation to create an engaging online environment.
"Over the years, I have tried to keep my collectibles organized and have never been successful," said Jason Wescott, an iTaggit user and avid collector of video games and sports memorabilia. "Not only does iTaggit help me easily manage my things, but I can also share these things with friends who live miles away."
About iTaggit
iTaggit is a web-based item management information system that provides “the place for every thing” by securely storing and organizing information, enabling research, and building communities based on individuals and collections of items. This essential online environment allows our user community to maximize the value and enjoyment of their stuff. iTaggit was founded in 2006 in Austin, Texas. For more information visit www.itaggit.com
Will The Mitchell Report Affect Baseball Card Value?
The Mitchell Report has sparked a lot of controversy and debate among MLB fans, but it remains to be seen how it will affect your ’baseball cards' value. The value of collectibles in the past has reflected controversy surrounding them, and this report brings the steroid controversy into primetime for open public scrutiny. I encourage you, as a collector, to manage a collection on iTaggit for the cards of those implicated to view how the value reacts. If you happen to have some cards of those in the Mitchell Report, let us know by linking to this blog at the bottom and allow us to observe with you.
If you are curious about which players'’ cards you have that might be implicated, here is the list of the accused:
Armando Rios
Marvin Bernard
Barry Bonds
Bobby Estalella
Jason Giambi
Jeremy Giambi
Benito Santiago
Gary Sheffield
Randy Velarde
Lenny Dykstra
David Segui
Larry Bigbie
Brian Roberts
Jack Cust
Tim Laker
Josias Manzanillo
Todd Hundley
Mark Carreon
Hal Morris
Matt Franco
Rondell White
Roger Clemens
Andy Pettitte
Chuck Knobloch
Jason Grimsley
Gregg Zaun
David Justice
F.P. Santangelo
Glenallen Hill
Mo Vaughn
Denny Neagle
Ron Villone
Ryan Franklin
Chris Donnels
Todd Williams
Phil Hiatt
Todd Pratt
Kevin Young
Mike Lansing
Cody McKay
Kent Mercker
Adam Piatt
Miguel Tejada
Jason Christiansen
Mike Stanton
Stephen Randolph
Jerry Hairston Jr.
Paul LoDuca
Adam Riggs
Bart Miadich
Fernando Vina
Kevin Brown
Eric Gagne
Mike Bell
Matt Herges
Gary Bennett Jr.
Jim Parque
Brendan Donnelly
Chad Allen
Jeff Williams
Howie Clark
Exavier "Nook" Logan
Mike Judd
Ricky Stone
Derrick Turnbow
Wally Joyner
Rafael Palmeiro
Paxton Crawford
Ryan Jorgensen
Ricky Bones
Ken Caminiti
Rick Ankiel
David Bell
Paul Byrd
Jose Canseco
Jay Gibbons
Troy Glaus
Jose Guillen
Darren Holmes
Gary Matthews Jr.
John Rocker
Scott Schoenweis
Ismael Valdez
Matt Williams
Steve Woodard
Dan Naulty
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Invasion Of The Uglydolls!
Uglydolls were first introduced by independent toy designers David Horvath and Sun-Min Kim in 2002. They are distinguished by a balance of the traditional plush and soft features that normally accompany stuffed dolls and the ugliness that only an owner could love. In 2006, Uglydolls were awarded the Specialty Toy of the Year title by the Toy Industry of America, and have appeared in several television shows and movies. They are primarily sold at independent and specialty toy stores, but have recently become available at Tower Records, Nordstrom, and Urban Outfitters. iTaggit user Ummjamiesha has organized her collectibles, as well as found the value of her collection of Uglydolls with us. Click on a picture below for more information on that item itself.
Ten Great Books For Men
For all of you avid readers out there, or those looking for a great idea for a present, may I suggest this Top 10 List of Books for Guys I found on MSN. They are supposed to be geared towards men, and I can see why because my father has read and thoroughly enjoyed at least a third of them, but the topics seem interesting for women as well. Let me know your feedback, if you've personally read any of them and what you thought about them. Be sure to organize your collection of books with iTaggit and let us know if you need your collectibles valued.
This classic novel of a man, a boat, and a storm is ultimately a compelling voyage of self discovery. Dick Pierce, an out-of-luck commercial fisherman, has lost nearly everything except his family. Spartina is the fishing boat he is trying to build in a last-ditch effort to realize his frustrated dreams of independence. As things veer from bad to worse, Dick manages to launch Spartina just before a hurricane hits. While riding out the storm brings Dick new clarity, the real heart of this novel is its timeless story of one man's struggle to find his true place in the world.
Quite possibly the best book ever written about baseball, The Boys of Summer tells the story of the Brooklyn Dodgers and the community that loved them. Roger Kahn, a sportswriter who grew up near Ebbets Field, covered the Dodgers for the Herald Tribune in the 1950s and tells the story here in all its glory and pathos—right up to the day in 1958 when the team moved to Los Angeles and took the heart and soul of Brooklyn with them. You don't have to love baseball to love this book.
In April 1992, following several years of solo adventures and sometimes odd behavior, 24-year-old Chris McCandless burned the last cash in his wallet and walked into the Alaskan wilderness on a personal quest to find new meaning in his life. Four months later, hunters found his decomposing body in an abandoned school bus. In this book, which inspired the current movie directed by Sean Penn and scored by rocker Eddie Vedder, author Jon Krakauer tries to understand how and why McCandless died—and what he discovered on his spiritual journey.
If you haven't read To Kill a Mockingbird since high school or college, it's time to take another look. Harper Lee's first and only novel, which won her a Pulitzer Prize and inspired an Oscar-winning film, offers one of the best role models for fatherhood in all of literature in the character of Atticus Finch. The novel also takes a compelling look at the cancerous effects of institutionalized racism on a small Southern town in the years before the civil rights movement.
For men, midlife is often seen as a time of crisis and confusion. But it's also a time when many men reinvent themselves and take control of their lives. Bestselling author Gail Sheehy has written what may be the ultimate relationship book for men. By sharing the stories of real men coping with the changes and challenges they encounter during their 40s, 50s, 60s, and beyond, Sheehy shows all men how to develop a truer relationship with themselves and to open their hearts more fully to the people they love.
Made into a 1992 movie starring Brad Pitt and directed by Robert Redford, Norman Maclean's book of two brothers following different paths is a poignant and lyrical story of loss, and our all-too-frequent inability to understand and help the people we love the most. Set in 1930s Montana, with some great fly-fishing scenes, Maclean tells his moving memoir in prose as clean and clear as a trout stream.
More than 200 standup comedians come clean in this hilarious and sometimes bizarre look at what goes on behind the laughter when comics are on the road. Contributors include legendary comic all-stars such as Jonathan Winters, Dennis Miller, Drew Carey, Chris Rock and Rita Rudner as well as a lineup of nearly anonymous rising stars. The stories range from Jerry Seinfeld's memory of being heckled by a Mafia hit man to Jay Leno's anecdote about accidentally leaving a groupie tied to her bed overnight. Authors Shydner and Schiff are veteran standup comics whose own recollections are included in the book.
In his bestselling book, New York Times columnist Thomas Friedman argues that economic, political and technological forces have led to a new stage of globalization that is creating previously unimagined opportunities and crises. Not everyone will agree with Friedman's conclusions, but there is no question that he does a masterful job of tracing many of the new trends and complex relationships that affect our lives.
This story about the 30-year friendship of two vaudeville comedians who make it big in the early days of Hollywood and television is touching, insightful, and often laugh-out-loud funny. Although as different offstage as on, straight man Mose Sharp and funny man Rocky Carter both struggle to overcome their demons and discover the essential value of male friendship.
One of the great underdog sports stories of all time, Seabiscuit: An American Legend tells how a horse that nobody wanted won the heart of a nation. Misunderstood and mishandled during his early racing career, Seabiscuit looked like a loser but became a champion. Competing during the bleakest years of the Great Depression, Seabiscuit was a symbol of triumph and hope for millions of Americans.
Monday, December 17, 2007
Possible Largest Historical Shipwreck Coin Recovery
There have been multiple ship wreck discoveries in 2007 that have yielded large amounts of buried treasure, so to speak, but the code-named “Black Swan” is one of the most impressive. Odyssey Marine Exploration, the world's leader in deep-ocean shipwreck exploration, has recovered 500,000 silver coins, which weigh more than 17 tons, hundreds of gold coins, worked gold, and countless other artifacts. If the results of the conservation and documentation are consistent with
“Our research suggests that there were a number of Colonial period shipwrecks that were lost in the area where this site is located, so we are being very cautious about speculating as to the possible identity of the shipwreck,” said John Morris, Odyssey Co-founder and CEO. “Nevertheless, we have treated this site with kid gloves and the archaeological work done by our team out there is unsurpassed. We are thoroughly documenting and recording the site, which we believe will have immense historical significance.” Although your personal coin collecting might not produce 17 tons worth of material, it is still prudent to manage your collections for future purposes. Good luck finding buried treasure of your own!
Johnny Depp At The Top For Autographed Memorabilia
The Associated Press released a great article last week about celebrity autographed memorabilia. Johnny Depp ranked at the top of the charts
as the most gracious celebrity for the third year in a row. Behind him in adoring-fan generosity are: Matt Damon, George Clooney, Jack Nicholson, Rosario Dawson, John Travolta, Katherine Heigl, Jay Leno, Dakota Fanning, and Russell Crowe. Crowe's placement on the Top 10 was considered a surprise, as he is infamous for throwing temper tantrums when it comes to fans and paparazzi, but the 43-year-old actor has apparently turned over a new leaf.
The worst celebrity signers are shamed in the following order: Will
Ferrell, Tobey Maguire, Joaquin Phoenix, William Shatner, Renee Zellweger, John Malkovich, Julie Andrews, Bruce Willis, Teri Hatcher, and Scarlett Johansson.
The editors of Autograph magazine, who compile the list annually, said they take into account input from autograph-collecting judges based in Europe, New York, and California when ranking the celebs.
If you need help pricing or organizing your collections of celebrity autographs, use an iTaggit account, as opposed to software for collectors, for the most secure way to store your valuable's information. Then be sure to share your autographs with the rest of our community, and add in the interesting story of how you obtained them in the notes section!
as the most gracious celebrity for the third year in a row. Behind him in adoring-fan generosity are: Matt Damon, George Clooney, Jack Nicholson, Rosario Dawson, John Travolta, Katherine Heigl, Jay Leno, Dakota Fanning, and Russell Crowe. Crowe's placement on the Top 10 was considered a surprise, as he is infamous for throwing temper tantrums when it comes to fans and paparazzi, but the 43-year-old actor has apparently turned over a new leaf.The worst celebrity signers are shamed in the following order: Will
Ferrell, Tobey Maguire, Joaquin Phoenix, William Shatner, Renee Zellweger, John Malkovich, Julie Andrews, Bruce Willis, Teri Hatcher, and Scarlett Johansson.The editors of Autograph magazine, who compile the list annually, said they take into account input from autograph-collecting judges based in Europe, New York, and California when ranking the celebs.
If you need help pricing or organizing your collections of celebrity autographs, use an iTaggit account, as opposed to software for collectors, for the most secure way to store your valuable's information. Then be sure to share your autographs with the rest of our community, and add in the interesting story of how you obtained them in the notes section!
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Marvel Zombies And Batman: Blind Justice
Recently it seems that everywhere I look, there Marvel Zombies are. The art work by Arthur Suydam is by far my favorite part of this comic book miniseries. I first noticed them about a month ago when I began
Baseball Memorabilia Showcased In Our Own Gallery
Check out some of the great baseball memorabilia I found in the iTaggit gallery:
iTaggit user kihm8787 has an amazing collection of baseball memorabilia in the community collection. Within the collection are a Limited Edition Ted Williams 50th Anniversary Autographed Plaque, Hank Aaron Autographed Baseball with Certificate of Authenticity, Rod Carew Autographed Baseball with "HOF 91'" Inscription (pictured left), Lou Brock Autographed Baseball with "SB 938" Inscription, all of which can be considered almost antiques these days.
iTaggit user comic_relief added a baseball cards collectors box with over 500 cards in it!!! (pictured right) In the description, the contents consist of over 500 baseball cards from different manufacturers and years, including one
original card from the 1950's, two original cards from the 1960's and five original cards from the 1970's. Other interesting cards I've found include Wheezy's autographed Bobby Doerr Baseball Card and itaggitfather's 2003 Upper Deck Sammy Sosa Limited Edition Baseball Card, which is in it's own display case. Lastly, one of the most impressive collections I have found across the board would be the_baseball_guru's The Topps Baseball Cards Complete Set from years 1986-1989, consisting of approximately 3,168 cards collectively.
I love finding new stuff in the iTaggit Gallery on a daily basis, and I hope you do to. If you find something that you feel needs to be shared, blog about it!
iTaggit user kihm8787 has an amazing collection of baseball memorabilia in the community collection. Within the collection are a Limited Edition Ted Williams 50th Anniversary Autographed Plaque, Hank Aaron Autographed Baseball with Certificate of Authenticity, Rod Carew Autographed Baseball with "HOF 91'" Inscription (pictured left), Lou Brock Autographed Baseball with "SB 938" Inscription, all of which can be considered almost antiques these days.iTaggit user comic_relief added a baseball cards collectors box with over 500 cards in it!!! (pictured right) In the description, the contents consist of over 500 baseball cards from different manufacturers and years, including one
original card from the 1950's, two original cards from the 1960's and five original cards from the 1970's. Other interesting cards I've found include Wheezy's autographed Bobby Doerr Baseball Card and itaggitfather's 2003 Upper Deck Sammy Sosa Limited Edition Baseball Card, which is in it's own display case. Lastly, one of the most impressive collections I have found across the board would be the_baseball_guru's The Topps Baseball Cards Complete Set from years 1986-1989, consisting of approximately 3,168 cards collectively.I love finding new stuff in the iTaggit Gallery on a daily basis, and I hope you do to. If you find something that you feel needs to be shared, blog about it!
The Dark Knight
The Dark Knight is based on the Batman comics, but most of its influences come from Batman: The Long Halloween, according to screenwriter David S. Goyer. It is set to hit theaters in Summer 2008, but the anticipation over the first full-length preview release is already building. The preview is expected to debut when I Am Legend is released this coming Friday. Until then, I will share with you the official movie poster that was released last Tuesday, as well as some trivia I found on IMDb.com about the upcoming sequel to Batman Begins. Don't forget to use our “What's My Item Worth” section for a comic book price guide.
As a joke, one bat suit was made with nipples. It was presented to Christian Bale as the real bat suit, but he knew instantly it was a joke, having seen a few design pictures during preproduction. He did pose for some publicity photos in the “nipple” suit.
This is the first Batman film not to have “Batman” in the title.
At the time when the Penguin was rumored to be in the movie, Bob Hoskins appeared as a fan favorite. He stated that he would have loved to protray the role and work with Christopher Nolan, calling him a fantastic director. Nolan then stated he had no intention of using the Penguin, calling him a too far-fetched character.
Robin Williams, Lachy Hulme, Paul Bettany, and Adrien Brody all expressed interest for the role of the Joker before Heath Ledger was cast. Sean Penn was the original choice.
When asked, “Why Heath Ledger as the Joker?” Christopher Nolan said, “Because he's fearless.”
Turning down a salary estimated at between $1 million and $2 million – an increase over the roughly $1 million she was believed to have earned for Batman Begins (2005) – Katie Holmes chose not to reprise her role as Rachel Dawes. This was due to what was described as 'scheduling conflicts'.
Jerry Robinson, who is credited as one of the original creators of the Joker, served as a consultant on the film.
Before Maggie Gyllenhaal replaced Katie Holmes in the role of Rachel Dawes, both Rachel McAdams and Emily Blunt were rumored for the part.
While filming on the streets of Chicago in April 2007, the filming was carried out under the fake movie title “Rory's First Kiss”. Fliers regarding the filming carried this fake title, complete with a fake “RFK” logo for the movie and an address for the film's production offices.
One of the extra's military uniforms has the name “Philo” on it, after the film's extras casting director, Joan Philo.
Future Football Rookie Cards Worth Holding Onto
The Associated Press just released a great article outlining the NCAA All American Team members for the 2007 season, some of which will be moving on to the NFL Draft here in a few months. Their rookie football cards and other autographed sports memorabilia may be worth a fair
When it comes to being an All-American, Darren McFadden doesn't have to settle for second. The Arkansas running back and two-time Heisman Trophy runner-up was one of four players voted to The Associated Press All-American team for the second consecutive season. Michigan offensive tackle Jake Long, LSU defensive tackle Glenn Dorsey and Ohio State linebacker James Laurinaitis were the other two-time first-team AP All-Americans on the team released Tuesday. Heisman Trophy winner Tim Tebow joins McFadden in the backfield along with Central Florida's Kevin Smith, who leads the nation with 2,448 yards and 30 touchdowns. Smith is the first All-American from
Kansas State receiver Jordy Nelson went from walk-on to All-American. He ranked second in the country in both receptions (122) and receiving yards (1,606) behind fellow All-American Michael Crabtree of Texas Tech. Crabtree set NCAA freshman records with 125 receptions for 1,861 yards and 21 touchdowns. Fellow redshirt freshmen Jeremy Maclin from Missouri (all-purpose player) and Arizona State kicker Thomas Weber also
On the defensive line with Dorsey and Ellis were ends Chris Long from Virginia and George Selvie of South Florida. Penn State's Dan Connor, Colorado's Jordan Dizon and Butkus Award winner Laurinaitis were the linebackers.
In the secondary, the cornerbacks were Aqib Talib from Kansas and 
The Big 12 had eight players selected to the first team, leading all conferences. The Big Ten and Southeastern Conference were second with four All-Americans each.
Let me know what you think about those who made the team, or those who didn't, and if you do happen to pick up any of their rookie cards, be sure to manage your collection on iTaggit!
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Michael Vick Memorabilia
Michael Vick had one of the most promising careers in the National Football League ahead of him. He was the star quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons and the 2007 Draft brought plenty of young talent onto the team to spark a successful season. Little did they know that shortly
before the season kicked-off, Vick would be turning himself in on charges of racketeering and drug use, as well as suspicion of lying about his involvement with the “Bad Newz Kennels” dog fighting operation. A case that has certainly affected the collectible value of his memorabilia. Vick was sentenced on Monday to 23 months in prison, which carries a possibility of being reduced by approximately 4 months if he shows good behavior. The real question on everyones' minds is if he will ever play pro ball again. His $130 million contract, once the richest in NFL history, is now suspended without pay, and all of his endorsement deals have been revoked. When asked about an indefinite suspension before the trial, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell responded “That's a determination we'll make later on... when the legal process is closed.” Now that sentencing has occurred, the professional career of Michael Vick lies in Commissioner Goodell's hands. As for his authentic sports memorabilia, one could argue that the current value might be solely based on the whirlwind of media frenzy surrounding the case and only time will tell how this controversy will affect his overall worth. What are your thoughts?
before the season kicked-off, Vick would be turning himself in on charges of racketeering and drug use, as well as suspicion of lying about his involvement with the “Bad Newz Kennels” dog fighting operation. A case that has certainly affected the collectible value of his memorabilia. Vick was sentenced on Monday to 23 months in prison, which carries a possibility of being reduced by approximately 4 months if he shows good behavior. The real question on everyones' minds is if he will ever play pro ball again. His $130 million contract, once the richest in NFL history, is now suspended without pay, and all of his endorsement deals have been revoked. When asked about an indefinite suspension before the trial, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell responded “That's a determination we'll make later on... when the legal process is closed.” Now that sentencing has occurred, the professional career of Michael Vick lies in Commissioner Goodell's hands. As for his authentic sports memorabilia, one could argue that the current value might be solely based on the whirlwind of media frenzy surrounding the case and only time will tell how this controversy will affect his overall worth. What are your thoughts?
One Hundred Million Pennies For Your Thoughts
As the old saying goes “A penny saved is a penny earned,” but the children of New York City took their coin collecting to a whole new level. Hundreds of thousands of city students representing more than 800 public schools in the area spent their weeks between October 22 and
Thanksgiving collecting pennies door to door. The outcome is being displayed in Rockefeller Center near the famous Christmas tree.”The Penny Harvest Field” was designed by architect James Polshek and is approximately 30 feet by 165 feet, or roughly as long as a city block. The value of their collection is estimated at around $1 million, or 100 million pennies plus a few other coins that might have slipped in. The exhibit is the outcome of the 17th annual Penny Harvest hosted by the nonprofit organization Common Cents. Their national education program is designed to teach children about their contributions to society, and after the first of the year, the money will be donated to charitable organizations of the children's choice.
Thanksgiving collecting pennies door to door. The outcome is being displayed in Rockefeller Center near the famous Christmas tree.”The Penny Harvest Field” was designed by architect James Polshek and is approximately 30 feet by 165 feet, or roughly as long as a city block. The value of their collection is estimated at around $1 million, or 100 million pennies plus a few other coins that might have slipped in. The exhibit is the outcome of the 17th annual Penny Harvest hosted by the nonprofit organization Common Cents. Their national education program is designed to teach children about their contributions to society, and after the first of the year, the money will be donated to charitable organizations of the children's choice.
Monday, December 10, 2007
Help Others While Helping Yourself
During my morning hunt for good antiques news, I stumbled upon a great article about Shopgoodwill.com. If you are in the market to purchase antique furniture, antique bottles, or anything else that you feel has aged better with time, check out their site. It is the first and only nonprofit Internet auction site and it makes searching through the old bins and clothes racks seem obsolete. They have over 75 categories and subcategories consisting of more than 18,000 items from antiques and toys to one-of-a-kind collectible items, which they have pulled from the billions of pounds of donated goods they collect every year. Shopgoodwill.com also has many popular features including Personal Shopper, which will send bidders e-mail alerts when items they are looking for are posted, which sounds perfect for the busy holiday shopper. If you would like to see more details from within the original article, please click here, and remember to add your new finds into your collection on iTaggit!
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Ancient Throne Found In Ruins
iTaggit encourages our users to show off their antique furniture collection in our gallery, but this newly unearthed piece leaves most others in the dust. The remnants of the first known surviving Roman throne have been discovered 82 feet below the surface in the buried city of Herculaneum. Herculaneum was engulfed in lava and ash in the year 79 when Mount Vesuvius erupted, killing thousands. Luckily for our generation, the layers of volcanic ash preserved the sites and are providing historical information on what domestic life was like in the ancient world. Even more remarkable about this piece is that it was found in the Villa dei Papiri, a first century country home believed to have been the residence of Julius Caesar's father-in-law. Archaeologists first dug the two legs and part of the back of the wooden throne that was decorated with ivory bas-reliefs depicting Greek mythological figures absorbed by Rome's culture. It is also decorated with images of pine cones and phalluses, as well as images of the gods Attis and Dionysus. A throne of this sort had only been seen in artistic depictions before now. The fragile antique remains will undergo a lengthy restoration while the dig in the Villa dei Papiri continues. The Villa dei Papiri was named as such due to the hundreds of ancient papyruses found in a library, and the site has only been partially excavated.
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Classic Rolls Royce Sets Records
iTaggit has several impressive vehicle collections in our gallery, and this classic beauty would fit right in. According to British reports, the world's oldest surviving Rolls-Royce set two new records this past Monday when a private collector paid 3.5 million pounds ($7.22 million) for it in an auction at Bonhams. The winning bid makes the classic not only the most
expensive pre-1905 car purchase, but also the most paid for a Rolls-Royce. This shattered the previous record for a veteran car purchase, which was 1.76 million pounds for an 1884 De Dion Bouton, and also the previous record of 1.48 million pounds for a 1912 Silver Ghost Double Pullman Limousine.
The newly purchased RR was built in 1904 and is only the fourth vehicle produced by the landmark cooperation between Charles Rolls and Henry Royce, which is still one of the oldest lines running. It is an open-topped two-seater with a small ten horsepower engine. It is in perfect condition after being restored in the 1950s, but was first exhibited at The Paris Salon in the Fall of 1904. This particular car carries with it a pedigree of sorts, as it was the only Rolls-Royce qualifying on the basis of its pre-1905 date to take part in the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run. It first ran the prestigious rally in 1954.
If you are curious about managing collections of old car parts, or cars in general, post your queries to our blog board. We can also help manage collectibles from this classic car era by providing knowledge about your items.
expensive pre-1905 car purchase, but also the most paid for a Rolls-Royce. This shattered the previous record for a veteran car purchase, which was 1.76 million pounds for an 1884 De Dion Bouton, and also the previous record of 1.48 million pounds for a 1912 Silver Ghost Double Pullman Limousine.The newly purchased RR was built in 1904 and is only the fourth vehicle produced by the landmark cooperation between Charles Rolls and Henry Royce, which is still one of the oldest lines running. It is an open-topped two-seater with a small ten horsepower engine. It is in perfect condition after being restored in the 1950s, but was first exhibited at The Paris Salon in the Fall of 1904. This particular car carries with it a pedigree of sorts, as it was the only Rolls-Royce qualifying on the basis of its pre-1905 date to take part in the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run. It first ran the prestigious rally in 1954.
If you are curious about managing collections of old car parts, or cars in general, post your queries to our blog board. We can also help manage collectibles from this classic car era by providing knowledge about your items.
A Real National Treasure Mystery
The National Treasure sequel is coming to theaters in a couple weeks and it has entertainment collectors abuzz, but what they might not know is that we have our own national treasure mystery going on display this
month at the Library of Congress. A Wadseemuller map from 1507 has puzzled researchers from the moment it was discovered. It is the only known surviving copy of the 500-year-old map that first named this land “America”. The 12 sheets that complete the map were purchased from German Prince Johannes Waldburg-Wolfegg for $10 million in 2003 from his valuable collection of historical documents.
The German monk Martin Waldseemuller drew them after he was approached by the Duke of Lorraine, 13 years following the first landing of Christopher Columbus in the Western Hemisphere. The result he and a group of scholars produced two years later was remarkably dead on. The shape of South America is mostly correct, to the point that key areas are drawn proportionally to each other within 70 miles of accuracy. Also, the map gives a mostly correct depiction of the west coast of South America, but according to our history books, Vasco Nunez de Balboa did not reach the Pacific by land until 1513, and Ferdinand Magellan did not round the southern tip of the landmass until 1520. So, from what we currently hold to be true, it technically should not have been possible to construct this map so precisely with the knowledge that we believe they were limited to, but this is only part one of the mystery.
Waldseemuller was very clear in his naming of this new land “America”
after Vespucci, a famous Florentine navigator who wrote letters describing his journeys to this new world. But for some unknown reason, Waldseemuller began to have regrets about the name, and in an atlas he produced six years later, he refers to it as “Terra Incognita” or “Unknown Land.” A few years after that, he digressed even further by reconnecting North America to Asia, and renaming this land mass “Terra de Cuba” (Land of Cuba) in the north, and “Terra Nova” (New World) in the south. Some speculate that political influences of Spain and Portugal played a part in the differentiation between the maps. One thing is for certain though. This map is the modern standard by which all further maps were developed, making it a keystone map, and an important piece in the developing understanding of the history of western civilization.
month at the Library of Congress. A Wadseemuller map from 1507 has puzzled researchers from the moment it was discovered. It is the only known surviving copy of the 500-year-old map that first named this land “America”. The 12 sheets that complete the map were purchased from German Prince Johannes Waldburg-Wolfegg for $10 million in 2003 from his valuable collection of historical documents. The German monk Martin Waldseemuller drew them after he was approached by the Duke of Lorraine, 13 years following the first landing of Christopher Columbus in the Western Hemisphere. The result he and a group of scholars produced two years later was remarkably dead on. The shape of South America is mostly correct, to the point that key areas are drawn proportionally to each other within 70 miles of accuracy. Also, the map gives a mostly correct depiction of the west coast of South America, but according to our history books, Vasco Nunez de Balboa did not reach the Pacific by land until 1513, and Ferdinand Magellan did not round the southern tip of the landmass until 1520. So, from what we currently hold to be true, it technically should not have been possible to construct this map so precisely with the knowledge that we believe they were limited to, but this is only part one of the mystery.
Waldseemuller was very clear in his naming of this new land “America”
after Vespucci, a famous Florentine navigator who wrote letters describing his journeys to this new world. But for some unknown reason, Waldseemuller began to have regrets about the name, and in an atlas he produced six years later, he refers to it as “Terra Incognita” or “Unknown Land.” A few years after that, he digressed even further by reconnecting North America to Asia, and renaming this land mass “Terra de Cuba” (Land of Cuba) in the north, and “Terra Nova” (New World) in the south. Some speculate that political influences of Spain and Portugal played a part in the differentiation between the maps. One thing is for certain though. This map is the modern standard by which all further maps were developed, making it a keystone map, and an important piece in the developing understanding of the history of western civilization.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Comic Book Organizing Has Never Been Easier
iTaggit Comic Collectors:
It has come to our attention that Amazon has made it even easier for you to organize your collection of comic books on iTaggit. Use our easy Amazon uploader through the Add Things button. Then type in the title of the comic you are looking for. We are currently unsure of how far back their library goes, or how extensive their variety of titles is, but at least it might save you some major time on your most recent acquisitions. Let us know if we can help you find your comic book's value through our “What's My Item Worth” collection.
It has come to our attention that Amazon has made it even easier for you to organize your collection of comic books on iTaggit. Use our easy Amazon uploader through the Add Things button. Then type in the title of the comic you are looking for. We are currently unsure of how far back their library goes, or how extensive their variety of titles is, but at least it might save you some major time on your most recent acquisitions. Let us know if we can help you find your comic book's value through our “What's My Item Worth” collection.
Five Elected To National Baseball Hall of Fame
The baseball card collectors have seen many ups and downs this past season, what with Bonds' record setting hit, to the Colorado Rockies' cinderella story, and the steroid scandal that made Americans question their favorite pastime to name a few. The off season has been considerably quieter and a historical vote has brought the classic baseball era back into the limelight. The National Baseball Hall of Fame recently revamped their rules and created a separate Veterans Committee ballot. On Monday, under these new rules, five managers and executives have been elected to enter the NBHoF. Joining the Class of 2008 will be World Series-winning managers Billy Southworth and Dick Williams, as well as former Commissioner Bowie Kuhn and owners Walter O'Malley and Barney Dreyfuss.
Williams played for the Dodgers in the 1950's, and as a manager, won the World Series in Oakland and pennants with Boston and San Diego. Southworth won the Series twice with St. Louis. They were both included on a ballot of ten that combined umpires and managers, and each received 13 votes from the 16 members on that particular committee.
A separate ballot of ten executives included O'Malley, who was the Dodgers owner during the teams' move from Brooklyn to Los Angeles 50 years ago. “I'm very happy and he would be very happy,” said O'Malley's son Peter, who sold the Dodgers in 1998. Kuhn is the fourth commissioner to be elected into the Hall of Fame and was active from 1969 to 1984. Dreyfuss is a former owner of the Pirates. He received 10 votes from the 12 members on the committee, while Kuhn received nine.
“This is a historic day for the Dodger franchise,” Dodger owner and chairman Frank McCourt said. “Walter O'Malley was a visionary who changed the face of baseball forever and we couldn't be more proud to see him earn his rightful spot in Cooperstown. We're very excited for both him and Dick Williams as they join the many Dodger players, managers and executives in the Hall of Fame.” Memorabilia from the era of any one of these influential gentlemen just had its stock rise a little more. If you have any items from a classic baseball team, be sure to post them on iTaggit.
Williams played for the Dodgers in the 1950's, and as a manager, won the World Series in Oakland and pennants with Boston and San Diego. Southworth won the Series twice with St. Louis. They were both included on a ballot of ten that combined umpires and managers, and each received 13 votes from the 16 members on that particular committee.
A separate ballot of ten executives included O'Malley, who was the Dodgers owner during the teams' move from Brooklyn to Los Angeles 50 years ago. “I'm very happy and he would be very happy,” said O'Malley's son Peter, who sold the Dodgers in 1998. Kuhn is the fourth commissioner to be elected into the Hall of Fame and was active from 1969 to 1984. Dreyfuss is a former owner of the Pirates. He received 10 votes from the 12 members on the committee, while Kuhn received nine.
“This is a historic day for the Dodger franchise,” Dodger owner and chairman Frank McCourt said. “Walter O'Malley was a visionary who changed the face of baseball forever and we couldn't be more proud to see him earn his rightful spot in Cooperstown. We're very excited for both him and Dick Williams as they join the many Dodger players, managers and executives in the Hall of Fame.” Memorabilia from the era of any one of these influential gentlemen just had its stock rise a little more. If you have any items from a classic baseball team, be sure to post them on iTaggit.
Monday, December 3, 2007
Napoleon Bonaparte Love Story Manuscript
Historical documents always add great value to the collections of those who intently seek them out. Napoleon Bonaparte is one of the most infamous figures in European history, and he began his rise to prominence as a general during the French Revolution. He then staged a coup d'etat that landed him as the First Consul of France, which he 
parlayed into being the self-crowned Emperor. Later, by strategic alliances or by armed force, he gained control of most of continental Europe, which directly led to his disastrous invasion of Russia, followed by his infamous downfall at Waterloo. What most people don't realize is that Bonaparte was a writer, and before he moved on to political matters, he penned love stories. Recently, a single manuscript page from his 1795 short novel “Clisson and Eugenie” was sold for $35,400 at the Osenat auction house in Fontainebleau, France. The page had been part of a private French family collection and the buyer's identity was not disclosed at the time. “Clisson and Eugenie” was written while he was a 26-year-old general on his rise to the aristocracy, though it was never published in Napoleon's lifetime. It is believed he loosely based it on his brief romance with the sister of his brother's wife. If you have any items from a significant historical era, iTaggit is always prepared to help you manage your collections and value your collectibles within them.
parlayed into being the self-crowned Emperor. Later, by strategic alliances or by armed force, he gained control of most of continental Europe, which directly led to his disastrous invasion of Russia, followed by his infamous downfall at Waterloo. What most people don't realize is that Bonaparte was a writer, and before he moved on to political matters, he penned love stories. Recently, a single manuscript page from his 1795 short novel “Clisson and Eugenie” was sold for $35,400 at the Osenat auction house in Fontainebleau, France. The page had been part of a private French family collection and the buyer's identity was not disclosed at the time. “Clisson and Eugenie” was written while he was a 26-year-old general on his rise to the aristocracy, though it was never published in Napoleon's lifetime. It is believed he loosely based it on his brief romance with the sister of his brother's wife. If you have any items from a significant historical era, iTaggit is always prepared to help you manage your collections and value your collectibles within them.
Friday, November 30, 2007
A Fun Story Emphasizing The Importance Of Organizing Your Collectibles
Everyone has collectibles they value, and can recognize the little pang in your heart when one is misplaced. That is why we strive to get across the importance of organizing your collectibles so that you will never have one go missing again. Now, there will always be extraordinary circumstances that might happen, and for this original story in particular, it all came to a happy ending.
More than two decades after Aaron Giles lost his identity bracelet, he's finding how it was discovered tough to swallow. A meat cutter at Olson Locker in Fairmont came across the shiny object in a chicken gizzard and saw a name, address and phone number engraved on it. Giles had lived in Fairmont as a child and played hide-and-seek and other games with his brothers in their grandfather's barn near Sherburn. "I would spend most of my time out at his farm, and that's the only place I can think of that I would have lost it," Giles said about his bracelet on Thursday. The 31-year-old said he thinks the bracelet was lost when he was 4 or 5. The barn was dismantled a few years ago, and Giles thinks his bracelet was embedded in materials used to construct another barn in Elmore, about 45 miles away. The bracelet was found in a chicken that came from an Elmore farm. Giles, who now lives in Gloucester, Mass., said he received his old bracelet in September. "It was in pretty immaculate shape. Everything was working on it, and all the engravings on it were still legible," Giles said. "It was quite the surprise." Giles said he expects the bracelet to stay in his family for many years to come. "I have no plans on trying to lose it again."
I hope Giles' story brought you a smile for the coming weekend. If you happen on some old, perhaps lost, heirlooms, and need your collection valued, don't hesitate to add them into our “What's My Item Worth” section, and include your object's story in the notes for us to smile about.
More than two decades after Aaron Giles lost his identity bracelet, he's finding how it was discovered tough to swallow. A meat cutter at Olson Locker in Fairmont came across the shiny object in a chicken gizzard and saw a name, address and phone number engraved on it. Giles had lived in Fairmont as a child and played hide-and-seek and other games with his brothers in their grandfather's barn near Sherburn. "I would spend most of my time out at his farm, and that's the only place I can think of that I would have lost it," Giles said about his bracelet on Thursday. The 31-year-old said he thinks the bracelet was lost when he was 4 or 5. The barn was dismantled a few years ago, and Giles thinks his bracelet was embedded in materials used to construct another barn in Elmore, about 45 miles away. The bracelet was found in a chicken that came from an Elmore farm. Giles, who now lives in Gloucester, Mass., said he received his old bracelet in September. "It was in pretty immaculate shape. Everything was working on it, and all the engravings on it were still legible," Giles said. "It was quite the surprise." Giles said he expects the bracelet to stay in his family for many years to come. "I have no plans on trying to lose it again."
I hope Giles' story brought you a smile for the coming weekend. If you happen on some old, perhaps lost, heirlooms, and need your collection valued, don't hesitate to add them into our “What's My Item Worth” section, and include your object's story in the notes for us to smile about.
Thursday, November 29, 2007
The Web Based Management Movement
With the information age in full swing, the collecting world has seen many changes. These changes have not necessarily come in terms of what is being collected, but more so, how people manage their collectibles. Since the computer has become a common household item, many turned to it to manage their things by using spreadsheets or downloadable software for collectors. Recently though, the trend to managing collectibles has moved in a different direction, and collectors are now capitalizing on dynamic web based applications, such as iTaggit. With a web based item management application, collectors can now build communities based on their interests and find the value of their collectibles easier. The features offered in a web based application allow collectors to manage more information and dig deeper into researching their things. In addition, iTaggit offers a platform for collectors to manage their items and then easily appraise, sell, and share their items, which is better than a dusty old spreadsheet. Best of all, iTaggit is free to users, making web based item management the best option for the modern collector to organize their collections.
Last Five State Quarter Designs Released
According to an Associated Press report yesterday, the U.S. Mint has released the last five designs for the state quarter collection. The Mint's 50 State Quarters Program releases quarters in order of each state's admittance to the country, starting with Delaware's quarter in 1999. The effort kicked off a coin collecting craze unlike anything ever seen before in the coin world. Based on a 2005 survey, Mint officials estimate 147 million people have gotten involved in collecting the quarters with their constantly changing designs. "The American people have made the 50 state quarters the most successful coins in United States history," said Mint Director Ed Moy.
The next one to be put into circulation in late January honors Oklahoma, which entered the union on Jan. 6, 1912. It will feature the state bird, the scissortail flycatcher, and the state wildflower, the Indian blanket. That will be followed by a Zia sun symbol for New Mexico, which entered the union on Jan. 6, 1912. Arizona, admitted on Feb. 14, 1912, will be represented by the Grand Canyon and a saguaro cactus. Alaska's coin will feature a grizzly bear wading in a stream with a salmon in its mouth while the Hawaii coin depicts King Kamehameha. Alaska and Hawaii were the last states to join the union in 1959.
Through the first eight years of the program, the Mint produced 31.2 billion quarters. Moy said about 20 billion of those quarters were due to the popularity of the changing designs which attracted collectors in record numbers.
The quarters are scheduled to revert back to their pre-1999 designs after next year. George Washington will remain on the "heads" side of the coin, but the "tails" side where the state designs had been placed will once again feature an American eagle.
Collectors who are missing some states should not lose heart since the coins already produced should remain in circulation for about 30 years. Be sure to manage your collection of state quarters using iTaggit. Also check out who has extra quarters you might be missing.
The next one to be put into circulation in late January honors Oklahoma, which entered the union on Jan. 6, 1912. It will feature the state bird, the scissortail flycatcher, and the state wildflower, the Indian blanket. That will be followed by a Zia sun symbol for New Mexico, which entered the union on Jan. 6, 1912. Arizona, admitted on Feb. 14, 1912, will be represented by the Grand Canyon and a saguaro cactus. Alaska's coin will feature a grizzly bear wading in a stream with a salmon in its mouth while the Hawaii coin depicts King Kamehameha. Alaska and Hawaii were the last states to join the union in 1959.
Through the first eight years of the program, the Mint produced 31.2 billion quarters. Moy said about 20 billion of those quarters were due to the popularity of the changing designs which attracted collectors in record numbers.
The quarters are scheduled to revert back to their pre-1999 designs after next year. George Washington will remain on the "heads" side of the coin, but the "tails" side where the state designs had been placed will once again feature an American eagle.
Collectors who are missing some states should not lose heart since the coins already produced should remain in circulation for about 30 years. Be sure to manage your collection of state quarters using iTaggit. Also check out who has extra quarters you might be missing.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Gift Book Appeals To Appreciators Of American Artistry And Country Music
I love collecting coffee-table books, though I never realized it before working at iTaggit, and a couple of my great pieces include My Love Affair With Jewelry by Elizabeth Taylor and Modern Art Museum Of Fort Worth 110. As I was writing this month's book newsletter, I stumbled across a particular coffee-table gem that I must add to my wish list. Jim McGuire has been photographing musicians over the past thirty 
years and his photos have graced the covers of more than 400 albums and CDs. Most of the big recording stars insist on using McGuire including Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Doc Watson, Dolly Parton, Carole King, Townes Van Zant, John Hartford, Emmylou Harris and Reba McIntyre, to name a few. His book, Nashville Portraits: Legends of Country Music, features the photos in beautiful duo-tones on heavy stock paper, and each contain a quote from one of the Nashville musicians discussing the beauty of McGuire’s work. This book appeals to anyone who appreciates American artistry, whether or not they love country music memorabilia. An appealing aspect of this book to me was the opportunity to gather the autographs of those featured artists who are still among us within the book, making a special collector's edition out of it.
If you are a lover of art or just enjoy strolling through a gallery on a lazy Sunday, sixty of his acclaimed portraits are slated for a two-year-long traveling museum exhibit that opened in Nashville this past Fall. It is sponsored by the Morris Museum of Art, located on the Riverwalk in downtown Augusta. Be sure to check for tour dates, and hopefully this fantastic exhibit will be coming near you. If you do happen to visit McGuire's portraits, feel free to blog your feedback on what you saw.
years and his photos have graced the covers of more than 400 albums and CDs. Most of the big recording stars insist on using McGuire including Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Doc Watson, Dolly Parton, Carole King, Townes Van Zant, John Hartford, Emmylou Harris and Reba McIntyre, to name a few. His book, Nashville Portraits: Legends of Country Music, features the photos in beautiful duo-tones on heavy stock paper, and each contain a quote from one of the Nashville musicians discussing the beauty of McGuire’s work. This book appeals to anyone who appreciates American artistry, whether or not they love country music memorabilia. An appealing aspect of this book to me was the opportunity to gather the autographs of those featured artists who are still among us within the book, making a special collector's edition out of it.If you are a lover of art or just enjoy strolling through a gallery on a lazy Sunday, sixty of his acclaimed portraits are slated for a two-year-long traveling museum exhibit that opened in Nashville this past Fall. It is sponsored by the Morris Museum of Art, located on the Riverwalk in downtown Augusta. Be sure to check for tour dates, and hopefully this fantastic exhibit will be coming near you. If you do happen to visit McGuire's portraits, feel free to blog your feedback on what you saw.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Gone Wishing- Wish List Contest Leaders
Here are today’s top 5 users in the Gone Wishing- Wish List Contest. The top 3 users who create the longest wish list by December 26 will win an item of their choice from their wish list. Don't get left behind, start adding items today to win the gifts you don’t get for the holidays.
Top 5 “Gone Wishing- Wish List” Contest Leaders:
1. svs8764
2. olokin
3. ChristineJurek
4. ShyNSpirit
5. BeanBone
Add items faster using our Amazon feature. Here's how:
1. Click the orange Add new Item button.
2. Click Import From Amazon.
3. Enter the name of the items you want and search.
4. Click Add. Make sure to add it to your wish list.
*If you have items in your wish list that you already own or that have multiple entries, please be sure to move them into another collection. We do not want any one to lose out because their items were not eligible.
Monday, November 26, 2007
ESPN Releases Latest NCAA Football Power 16 List
ESPN has come out with their latest Power 16 list, heading into a week of Conference Championships. One-loss West Virginia has vaulted to the top spot, while Missouri's victory over Kansas has moved the Tigers up to No.2. The Mountaineers received eight first-place votes, and the Tigers picked up seven. Ohio State, Georgia, and USC round out the top five. Say goodbye to Oregon (11), Texas (13), and Virginia (16) and say hello to Illinois, Tennessee, and Clemson. Time to organize your football memorabilia, for it seems a new era is being ushered in. The Big 12 North is becoming a more formidable foe for the South, the SEC is knocking itself down in a struggle for the top every other week, and the Big East, Pac-10 and Big Ten are nothing to scoff at. And over it all, an autographed football by Darren McFadden, Tim Tebow, Chase Daniel or Pat White might be worth a pretty penny here in the next month or two. Anyways, check out the recent top 16 and see if you agree with the standings. No doubt if you don't, they'll change in a week anyway.
1. West Virginia, previously ranked #4, 10-1 record
The stakes in the Backyard Brawl have never been higher. A victory over Pitt sends WVU to the BCS title game. Who saw that coming after the loss to South Florida two months ago?
2. Missouri, previously ranked #3, 11-1 record
It's the season for miracles. The Tigers weren't ranked until late September, but now they're one win away from New Orleans. Christmas arrives early if Mizzou beats Oklahoma.
3. Ohio State, previously ranked #5, 11-1 record
You won't find bigger Oklahoma or Pittsburgh fans than the folks in Columbus. The Buckeyes' holiday wish includes an upset... and the way this season has gone, don't be surprised if they get it.
4. Georgia, previously ranked #7, 10-2 record
Is any team playing better than Georgia? The Dawgs don't have an SEC East title to show for it, but they've won six straight games and keep their hopes alive for an at-large BCS bid.
5. USC, previously ranked #9, 9-2 record
There probably won't be a national title for Troy this season, but if USC beats UCLA, the Trojans will claim an unprecedented sixth straight Pac-10 title and a trip to the Rose Bowl.
6. LSU, previously ranked #1, 10-2 record
The Tigers have pulled out close games all season, but their triple-overtime loss will hurt for a while. LSU's national title hopes are likely done (thanks Darren McFadden), but it can claim the SEC crown versus Tennessee.
7. Oklahoma, previously ranked #10, 10-2 record
DeMarco Murray won't play in the Big 12 championship, but it won't matter if Allen Patrick runs like he did versus Oklahoma State. Patrick's line: a career-best 202 yards on 29 carries and two TDs.
8. Kansas, previously ranked #2, 11-1 record
The Jayhawks were second in the nation in scoring (46 ppg), but KU didn't score in the first half and was held to 28 against Missouri. Kansas' 42 yards on the ground didn't help. The Tigers finished with 151.
9. Virginia Tech, previously ranked #8, 10-2 record
Since the loss to BC, Va. Tech has won four straight, outscoring its opponents 144-59. The Hokies get a rematch when they face the Eagles for the ACC championship on Saturday.
10. Florida, previously ranked #12, 9-3 record
Even a broken hand can't stop Tim Tebow or his Heisman campaign. Tebow threw for three TDs and rushed for two more in the rout of Florida State. If you're counting, that's 29 TD passes and 22 rushing.
11. Arizona State, previously ranked #6, 9-2 record
The Sun Devils don't just lose to USC; they lose big. ASU has lost eight straight to the Trojans by an average of 19 points. The good news? They've won five of seven games after USC.
12. Hawaii, previously ranked #14, 11-0 record
Hawaii is the only unbeaten team in the Top 25. With its first outright WAC title in hand, the Warriors' next goal is to finish off an undefeated regular season. Will BCS berth follow suit?
13. Boston College, previously ranked #15, 10-2 record
Matt Ryan finished the regular season with 28 TDs, breaking Doug Flutie's mark, as the Eagles broke a 15-game losing streak vs. Miami. BC can make its first BCS bowl appearance with a win over the Hokies.
14. Illinois, previously unranked in Power 16, 9-3 record
The Illini haven't played since Nov. 17, but they continue to move up in the rankings. They'll be rooting hard for Ohio State to play in the BCS title game because that might mean a trip to Pasadena.
15. Tennessee, previously unranked in Power 16, 9-3 record
Is it time to step off the “Phillip Fulmer must go” bandwagon now? The Vols are the unlikely SEC East champions and will look to claim their first conference title since 1998 against LSU.
16. Clemson, previously unranked in Power 16, 9-3 record
After throwing only 22 passes in his first two seasons, Cullen Harper impressed as a full-time starter. Harper finished the regular season completing 67 percent of his passes with 27 TDs and only six picks.
Others receiving votes: Brigham Young, Auburn, Oregon, Wisconsin, and South Florida. Football collectibles have certainly been a popular item this year due to the weekly fluctuation in rankings among the teams. Be sure to post your items in your 2007 football collections and root your teams on through the Bowl season!
1. West Virginia, previously ranked #4, 10-1 record
The stakes in the Backyard Brawl have never been higher. A victory over Pitt sends WVU to the BCS title game. Who saw that coming after the loss to South Florida two months ago?
2. Missouri, previously ranked #3, 11-1 record
It's the season for miracles. The Tigers weren't ranked until late September, but now they're one win away from New Orleans. Christmas arrives early if Mizzou beats Oklahoma.
3. Ohio State, previously ranked #5, 11-1 record
You won't find bigger Oklahoma or Pittsburgh fans than the folks in Columbus. The Buckeyes' holiday wish includes an upset... and the way this season has gone, don't be surprised if they get it.
4. Georgia, previously ranked #7, 10-2 record
Is any team playing better than Georgia? The Dawgs don't have an SEC East title to show for it, but they've won six straight games and keep their hopes alive for an at-large BCS bid.
5. USC, previously ranked #9, 9-2 record
There probably won't be a national title for Troy this season, but if USC beats UCLA, the Trojans will claim an unprecedented sixth straight Pac-10 title and a trip to the Rose Bowl.
6. LSU, previously ranked #1, 10-2 record
The Tigers have pulled out close games all season, but their triple-overtime loss will hurt for a while. LSU's national title hopes are likely done (thanks Darren McFadden), but it can claim the SEC crown versus Tennessee.
7. Oklahoma, previously ranked #10, 10-2 record
DeMarco Murray won't play in the Big 12 championship, but it won't matter if Allen Patrick runs like he did versus Oklahoma State. Patrick's line: a career-best 202 yards on 29 carries and two TDs.
8. Kansas, previously ranked #2, 11-1 record
The Jayhawks were second in the nation in scoring (46 ppg), but KU didn't score in the first half and was held to 28 against Missouri. Kansas' 42 yards on the ground didn't help. The Tigers finished with 151.
9. Virginia Tech, previously ranked #8, 10-2 record
Since the loss to BC, Va. Tech has won four straight, outscoring its opponents 144-59. The Hokies get a rematch when they face the Eagles for the ACC championship on Saturday.
10. Florida, previously ranked #12, 9-3 record
Even a broken hand can't stop Tim Tebow or his Heisman campaign. Tebow threw for three TDs and rushed for two more in the rout of Florida State. If you're counting, that's 29 TD passes and 22 rushing.
11. Arizona State, previously ranked #6, 9-2 record
The Sun Devils don't just lose to USC; they lose big. ASU has lost eight straight to the Trojans by an average of 19 points. The good news? They've won five of seven games after USC.
12. Hawaii, previously ranked #14, 11-0 record
Hawaii is the only unbeaten team in the Top 25. With its first outright WAC title in hand, the Warriors' next goal is to finish off an undefeated regular season. Will BCS berth follow suit?
13. Boston College, previously ranked #15, 10-2 record
Matt Ryan finished the regular season with 28 TDs, breaking Doug Flutie's mark, as the Eagles broke a 15-game losing streak vs. Miami. BC can make its first BCS bowl appearance with a win over the Hokies.
14. Illinois, previously unranked in Power 16, 9-3 record
The Illini haven't played since Nov. 17, but they continue to move up in the rankings. They'll be rooting hard for Ohio State to play in the BCS title game because that might mean a trip to Pasadena.
15. Tennessee, previously unranked in Power 16, 9-3 record
Is it time to step off the “Phillip Fulmer must go” bandwagon now? The Vols are the unlikely SEC East champions and will look to claim their first conference title since 1998 against LSU.
16. Clemson, previously unranked in Power 16, 9-3 record
After throwing only 22 passes in his first two seasons, Cullen Harper impressed as a full-time starter. Harper finished the regular season completing 67 percent of his passes with 27 TDs and only six picks.
Others receiving votes: Brigham Young, Auburn, Oregon, Wisconsin, and South Florida. Football collectibles have certainly been a popular item this year due to the weekly fluctuation in rankings among the teams. Be sure to post your items in your 2007 football collections and root your teams on through the Bowl season!
Pennsylvania's Flag May Become A Collectible In The Near Future
Collectors have highly valued historical United States' memorabilia since the birth of our nation in 1776, including the many flags that have transitioned through the years. According to a report on Foxnews.com, the Pennsylvania flag is in talks of being updated with a more recognizable image. Democratic State Rep. Tim Solobay says that “the
Pennsylvania flag is so obscure that many people in the state cannot identify it.” Solobay submitted a proposal to the House lawmakers which passed in June with a 164-31 vote, and has since moved on to the Senate committee for consideration. On the opposite end of the argument, former teacher Peter Malichock Jr. calls the idea of changing the flag “outrageous,” stating that “they are dumbing down the flag because they are making it easier for people to identify it.” Others have concerns that replacing all the flags in the state would be too costly. Solobay stands by his proposal, suggesting that the new flags will be phased in over time, and in the newer version, the words “Commonwealth of” would appear above the coat of arms along with “Pennsylvania” below it, all in yellow silk block letters. Of the 50 states, 28 include the name or initials of the state on their flags, making them easier to identify. Check out the original article and take the 10-flag quiz to see just how many you know.
Pennsylvania flag is so obscure that many people in the state cannot identify it.” Solobay submitted a proposal to the House lawmakers which passed in June with a 164-31 vote, and has since moved on to the Senate committee for consideration. On the opposite end of the argument, former teacher Peter Malichock Jr. calls the idea of changing the flag “outrageous,” stating that “they are dumbing down the flag because they are making it easier for people to identify it.” Others have concerns that replacing all the flags in the state would be too costly. Solobay stands by his proposal, suggesting that the new flags will be phased in over time, and in the newer version, the words “Commonwealth of” would appear above the coat of arms along with “Pennsylvania” below it, all in yellow silk block letters. Of the 50 states, 28 include the name or initials of the state on their flags, making them easier to identify. Check out the original article and take the 10-flag quiz to see just how many you know.
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