BettysAttic.com Blog

As We Mourn The Legendary Michael Jackson

noreply@blogger.com (Betty) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 09:07:11 PDT

On June 25, music fans around the world were shocked and saddened by the devastating news that pop icon Michael Jackson had unexpectedly passed away.

Michael had been singing to us since he was 9 years old, fronting his family singing group, The Jackson 5. His appeal was instant, and the group was tremendously successful.

For those who thought the passing of Elvis Presley in 1977 meant the world would never see another King with the vocal talent and pure magnetism capable of attracting throngs of adoring fans, they only had to wait 2 more years until Jackson released Off The Wall in 1979. His fifth solo departure from The Jackson 5 was regarded as a major breakthrough album, receiving critical acclaim and marking Jackson’s transition from talented little boy into a masterful musical force.

Whether you were into disco, funk, soul, jazz, pop or rock, Michael had a song for you. His impact on modern music was astounding, delivered through album releases, television appearances, globe-spanning concerts, and his brilliant videos on the fledgling MTV. He turned the music video into conceptual art, and introduced new dance techniques such as the robot and moonwalk. Thriller, released in 1982, instantly became—and currently remains—the best-selling album of all time. Seven of the album’s nine songs, including Beat It, Billie Jean, The Girl Is Mine, PYT (Pretty Young Thing), Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’ and 2 more, reached Billboard’s top 10, and the album won a record-breaking eight Grammy awards in 1984.

Michael Jackson’s multiple successes over the next decade cemented his image as a cultural icon. He was one of those rare entertainers whose talent spanned generations and genres, and he will forever be known as the King of Pop.

Coca-Cola®: Quenching Our Thirst For 125 Years

noreply@blogger.com (Betty) — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 10:21:18 PDT

It’s summer, it’s Florida, and it’s HOT! While so much of the country looks forward to participating in outdoor activities this time of year, here in the south we do our best to stay inside. We live in air-conditioned houses, drive air-conditioned vehicles, work in air-conditioned offices, shop in air-conditioned malls… Oh, there are those who enjoy working up a good sweat, but for the most part, the way to get through a typical summer day in these parts is to sit back and refresh yourself with an ice-cold soft drink.

Of course, one can’t even think about soft drinks without the iconic Coca-Cola brand coming to mind. Ever since pharmacist John Pemberton came up with the formula for his “brain tonic” back in 1885, America has been hooked! The sweet taste on your tongue, the cool rush in your throat, the bubbles that tickle your nose… they all combine to make the experience of drinking a Coke® one of the best ways to quench your thirst any time of the year.

But Coke’s success isn’t based entirely on its taste. There are some very memorable marketing campaigns in its 125-year history that have helped Coke firmly establish its place in our culture. Who hasn’t seen an image of a rosy-cheeked Santa hoisting a bottle of Coke and recharging himself during his rounds? Or the lovely ladies from the pages of those pin-up calendars suggesting that all vibrantly happy women drink Coke! Remember those familiar scenes of kids gathering at the soda fountain after school, when sharing a Coke with friends was the high point of the day? Coca-Cola has made itself a household name not only in the US, but all over the world—a fact reinforced by the campaign featuring the multi-ethnic hillside congregation singing “I’d like to buy the world a Coke…” back in 1971!

And while we’ve quenched our thirst for refreshment, we’ve worked up a thirst of a different kind. Collectors snap up old and new items such as salt & pepper shakers, clocks, calendars, glassware, clothing, linens, signage, and other miscellany bearing the familiar red and white design—the older, the better. At Betty’s Attic, we’ve gathered some unusual and useful products just like these to add to your collection. Go ahead—enjoy!

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A Star Trek For Every Generation

noreply@blogger.com (Betty) — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 13:30:17 PDT

When Gene Roddenberry created the sci-fi television series Star Trek in 1966, he couldn’t have known the immense impact and tremendous popularity the show would have on pop culture! The series ran for only 3 seasons, but developed its strong following through the reruns. The series spurned 5 television series, and inspired 11 full-length feature films, with a 12th in current production. The most recent release in May 2009 gave us a new and alternative look at how the crew of the USS Enterprise first came together to boldly go to galaxies unknown. The movie is proving to be a commercial success, garnering Trekkie fans from yet another generation.

What is the secret of Star Trek’s appeal? Why have we been so compelled to watch these characters spend light years traveling the multiverse, confronting, battling, and befriending other species, then moving on to the next frontier? The episodes were like mini morality plays, as current now as they were in the 60s: man’s physical battle between good vs. evil, and his inner conflict between emotion vs. logic. Almost every storyline could have been subtitled “Live and Let Live—or, Why Can’t We All Just Get Along in Deep Space?” But social commentary aside, generation after generation of loyal viewers would never be drawn to watch a sci-fi program about different species “just getting along!” Therefore, the battle rages on—could it possibly last another 45 years? We hope so!

Happy Birthday, Marilyn Monroe – Your Star Still Shines

noreply@blogger.com (Betty) — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 08:02:15 PDT

Whenever I hear the lyrics to the Queen anthem, We Are The Champions: “You brought me fame and fortune and everything that goes with it, and I thank you all. But its been no bed of roses, no pleasure cruise…” I always think of Marilyn Monroe. Born on June 1, 1926 to an unmarried, mentally-ill mother, she bounced around foster homes from the time she was just a little girl until she was 16 years old. She had the proverbial deck stacked against her from a very young age, yet she never let it keep her down. She was always picking herself up, dusting herself off and reinventing herself, eventually becoming one of the most famous people the world has ever known.

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What was it about Marilyn Monroe that has kept the memory of her persona alive, almost 50 years since her passing? She was not the most respected of actresses. She wasn’t a particularly gifted singer. Obviously she was unlucky in love, having been divorced 3 times. Both her personal and professional lives were subjected to harsh criticism at every turn. But despite all that, Marilyn remains an icon, remembered not just for her alluring sex appeal and her talent for entertaining, but also for her vibrant spirit, her determination to beat the odds, chase her dreams, and maintain her passion for life. She once said, “I just want to be wonderful.” To her credit, Marilyn tried to keep in perspective what she felt her fame really was – a fleeting moment in the spotlight. Little did she know, her moment would be anything but fleeting. And she was indeed wonderful.

Marilyn has influenced many of today’s top talents. You only have to look as far as Madonna’s platinum-blonde phase, Britney Spears’ Rolling Stone shoot, Christina Aguilera’s album cover art, Lindsay Lohan’s fashion line, and Megan Fox’s tattoo to see the impact Marilyn still carries in Hollywood. Her untimely death, all alone at age 36, was such a tragic end to her stellar life. The star is gone, but the bright light she cast has yet to fade. May it continue to shine!

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Celebrating 100 Years Of Kewpie Cuteness

noreply@blogger.com (Betty) — Tue, 26 May 2009 07:05:50 PDT

In this age of technology, do little girls still play with dolls? What’s the latest doll craze these days? What kind of tricks do they do now? Once a doll-loving little girl myself, I owned (and coveted) dolls that cried, wet, talked, walked, crawled, slept, sang, grew hair, grew taller, and I can’t even remember what else. For the most part, they were just passing trends and didn’t really have much staying power. But there is at least one very notable exception.

One doll has never been out of production since she was first created back in 1913. I’m talking about Kewpie, of course! Created by Rose O’Neill, Kewpie started life as an illustration that appeared in the pages of Ladies’ Home Journal in 1909. The charming drawings of the smiling winged cherub were introduced as paper dolls in 1912 and were so popular, it was decided that Kewpie should become a real doll. A year later, the first Kewpie doll was produced. Over the years, Kewpies have been crafted in bisque, soap, celluloid, Wedgewood, porcelain, plaster composition, cloth, and vinyl. They have been produced in sizes ranging from 1” tall to over 3 feet tall. But through all the incarnations, Kewpie has remained popular without having to do any “tricks” – no wetting, no crying, no walking. So what is the appeal? The pointy little topknot of sculpted hair? The chubby baby-like features? The impish grin and side-glancing eyes? I say, all of the above! Amazingly, Kewpie has captured the hearts of collectors all over the world for a century, just by being cute! Now I ask you, what other doll can lay claim to that feat?

Humor Goes Down In Smithsonian History!

noreply@blogger.com (Betty) — Mon, 18 May 2009 05:44:58 PDT

Last week, comedian Carol Burnett and fashion designer Bob Mackie donated a costume from “The Carol Burnett Show” to the National Museum of American History. The dress joins other culturally significant items on display, such as the ruby slippers from “The Wizard Of Oz,” Irving Berlin’s piano, Muhammed Ali’s boxing gloves, and the signpost from “M*A*S*H™.”

The costume donated is none other than the curtain dress used to parody Scarlett O’Hara’s iconic green velvet dress from “Gone With The Wind.” In the classic film, as you know, Scarlett fashions her fabulous dress from drapes she pulls down from the windows.

Carol Burnett’s Mackie-designed dress was worn in the comedy sketch entitled “Went With The Wind,” first shown on her variety show on CBS in 1976. When Burnett descended the staircase, the drapes of her dress were still attached to a brass curtain rod across her shoulders! The hilarity of the scene reached it peak when Burnett said, “I saw it in a window and I had to have it!” This scene reportedly got one of the longest recorded laughs on television. If you’ve seen the sketch, you’ll remember how hysterical it was. If you’ve never seen the sketch, well, now you’ve missed a part of history!

Museum Director Brent Glass said of the dress, “… (it) is a symbol of the nation’s rich comedic history.” What a great country we live in when our history museum includes artifacts from the best moments in comedy, don’t you agree?

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Our Fascination With Trains Is Still On Track!

noreply@blogger.com (Betty) — Tue, 12 May 2009 12:40:48 PDT

While visiting relatives this past holiday weekend, I was captivated by one of my young nephews who was absolutely fascinated with a miniature train set. Our elderly uncle had brought it out for the little guy to play with, patiently helping to set it up and get it working. He shared with us that it had always been his favorite childhood possession. Together, the two spent hours placing miniature figures and foliage here and there, and watching the train travel the tracks; backward, forward, in and out of tunnels. It made me think of my favorite cousin Dennis and his elaborate model train setup in his family’s basement,. My sibs and I spent many hours down there, watching the locomotive puff along, loading and unloading its cargo, then sending it back out on its way around the track. Looking back, the fact that Dennis let us play with his amazingly cool train set was probably the reason he was our favorite cousin!

Another fond train memory I have is class field trip taken in elementary school--a scenic ride on the Arcade & Attica railroad across western New York. Entering the historically-preserved station and bouncing in the seats of the antique steam locomotive was like traveling back in time. It was inspiring and exciting to realize that we were riding along the very same rails that were spiked down by pioneers in 1881.

Trains are such an integral part of our country’s growth. Can you imagine the excitement back in 1859 when the first train to cross the mighty Mississippi River made its way across the bridge from Rock Island, Illinois to Davenport, Iowa? And ten years later, in Promontory, Utah, when the Union Pacific tracks were joined to the Central Pacific tracks--the 2,000-mile journey that once took overland pioneers 4 to 6 months was reduced to 6 days!

Hopefully, in another 150 years, family gatherings of uncles, cousins and nephews will still be appreciating and sharing the rich history and timeless adventure of trains.

I Read The News Today, Oh Boy…

noreply@blogger.com (Betty) — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 05:49:59 PDT

Here’s something I was thinking about… Being that there are only so many days in the year, it stands to reason that on each day, somewhere in history, something really inspiring, significant, or amazing took place. Take any random date--April 15, for example.

In 1947, Jackie Robinson broke Major League Baseball’s color line when he was signed by the Brooklyn Dodgers to wear #42. He scored the winning run in his debut, further securing his spot in sports history. In a fitting tribute, Jackie Robinson’s number was retired on April 15, 1997.

April 15, 1865 is the day that our 16^th president, Abraham Lincoln, died from the gunshot wound he received the night before at Ford’s Theatre. It was a monumental tragedy during a very turbulent time in our nation’s history.

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On April 15, 1955, Ray Kroc opened his first McDonald’s restaurant in Des Plaines, Illinois. Today, there is hardly a person alive in the civilized world who isn’t familiar with the name McDonald’s, the golden arches, or the phrase, “Would you like fries with that?”

The song “We Are The World,” recorded by USA for Africa, reached the #1 spot on Billboard Magazine charts on April 15, 1985. Almost 25 years have passed since more than 40 of the biggest celebrities in the music industry lent their voices to the recording, which raised over $60 million for famine relief.

And that’s just ONE DATE on the calendar! (P.S. - If, after reading this, the only thought that comes to your mind on April 15^th has to do with taxes, you need to bring a little more “retro” excitement to your life—and I know just the place to find it!)

Celebrating The Soundtrack Of My Life

noreply@blogger.com (Betty) — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 08:02:36 PDT

On my way into work today, I was listening to the radio and singing along to an old favorite by The Beatles. After the song, the DJ remarked that during this week in 1964, the Beatles broke Elvis Presley’s 7-year record for most hits on Billboard's Hot 100 simultaneously. In 1956, Presley had nine songs on the Hot 100. The Beatles added a 10th hit, then managed to top that on April 11, when they occupied 14 slots on the chart! Can you imagine? Most people would be hard-pressed to write and record one song; or to have that song reach the Billboard charts. To have 14 on the chart at the same time—well, it continues to astound me. This week I’m celebrating their amazing feat with a few collectibles that fans like myself are sure to love.

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Having grown up during The Beatles’ heyday, their music is an integral part of the soundtrack of my life. Lennon’s edgy lyrics and McCartney’s beautiful melodies combine to remind me of good friends I made and great times I had, making them seem for a moment or two, just as vivid as they were then. Isn’t it strange how people we’ve never met can have such a profound impact on our lives? Our favorite movie actors, television personalities, music icons… all literally strangers to us, yet they are firmly anchored in our fondest memories from the timelines of our own personal histories. This is what makes memorabilia and retro collectibles so precious to us—these pieces of our past that we take out, dust off, and warmly embrace with our minds before tucking them away for another day.

Wonder Woman’s Got Nothin’ On Me!

noreply@blogger.com (Betty) — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 06:55:06 PDT

It had been a particularly busy weekend, and as I sat exhausted in my recliner, I reflected on all that I had accomplished. I decided that Wonder Woman should set aside crime-fighting for a day, and try her hand at being me. (I guarantee her hair won’t look that good when its over!) Comparing myself to her, I realized just how much I accomplished, all without the help of super-powers or weapons!

I communicate with animals. Spying our mutt sitting next to her empty food bowl with a sad look in her eyes, I was able to discern that she was hungry! Since 3three family members passed right by her and the empty dish before I did and failed to fill it with food, I can only assume that no one else is able to communicate with her.

I have the ability to fly. My daughter the aspiring gymnast loves showing off her new skills. When her back handspring went awry in the living room, I was able to fly past her and rescue my favorite lamp before it hit the ground—without the aid of an invisible airplane.

I’m skilled in hand to hand combat. Usually I employ this tactic right before dinnertime, when my territory is being invaded by kids trying to sneak snacks while I’m trying to cook. This week I was able to swat a bag of chips out of my daughter’s hand and snatch a can of soda from my son’s, while simultaneously replacing these items with a stack of plates to be dried and a bag of trash to be taken out. Poor kids never knew what hit ‘em.

Wonder Woman, I salute you. You’ve helped me realize my own inner superhero powers. But I do have one question--just for future reference, where might one purchase a Lasso of Truth?

Springtime Means Baseball & Memories Of Grandpa

noreply@blogger.com (Betty) — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 06:43:02 PDT

8:40:03 AM
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" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_N-5yqw8zSuc/Sb5XY8A0RyI/AAAAAAAAAdg/e0xlvPckorY/55190stadiumart13.jpg?imgmax=800" width="142" align="left" border="0"> This March marks the 10^th anniversary of the passing of all-time Yankee great, Joe DiMaggio. As a Yankee fan, I’m anxiously awaiting the opening of the new stadium, and thinking that if “Joltin’ Joe” was still around, he’d be as excited as all the fans and players will be when the first pitch is thrown out next month.

I feel a strong connection to Joe DiMaggio, having heard my Grandpa Ben’s seemingly endless stories about the “Yankee Clipper” in his heyday. Although DiMaggio was long retired by the time I was born, I loved sitting in the stands with my grandfather at the spring training games, as he told anecdotes about his favorite player, recounting highlights of games past, quoting stats, and making his predictions for the coming season.

When I got older, I joined a women’s softball team just so Grandpa Ben could come and watch me play. (I know, softball’s not the same as baseball, but it was close enough for us.) And just before he passed away, I sat with him as we leafed through his old baseball card collection and he shared those familiar memories with me one more time. Of course, I had heard the stories dozens of times before, but this time they seemed so much more exciting and meaningful.

Now that he’s gone, I’m sure he’d be proud to know that I inherited not only his beloved card collection, but also his passion for the game, and the fresh, hopeful anticipation each new season brings. Good luck, Yankees—and hit one out of the park for Grandpa Ben!

Mustang Dreams And Steve McQueen

noreply@blogger.com (Betty) — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 06:07:54 PDT

A friend of mine recently retired from his job. His plan for the next few years? Restoring a vintage Ford Mustang! Apparently, it has been his dream car since his high school days. He has decided that the time is right for a project car, and I am so envious! I am crazy about Mustangs, and although I am still at the “mini-van mom” stage of my life, owning one of the classic pony cars is a dream I share with my friend.

The first Ford Mustang was introduced in 1964 at the New York World’s Fair. It was the first of the “pony class” of American cars, and man, was it popular! Original sales were projected at less than 100,000 for the first year, but in its first eighteen months, more than one million Mustangs rolled off the line. Forty-five years later, the Mustang is still in production!

Just a month after its introduction, the Mustang made its first appearance on the racetrack as the pace car for the 1964 Indianapolis 500. Later that year, it appeared in the James Bond film Goldfinger, the first time the car was used in a movie. But nothing tops the sensational 7-minute chase scene from 1968’s Bullitt, starring a very cool Steve McQueen behind the wheel of a lightning-quick 1968 Ford Mustang GT 390 Fastback. If there was anyone out there who hadn’t noticed the Mustang before this movie, they were certainly paying attention now! (It was right about that time that I also noticed Steve McQueen!)

While I can’t retire and buy myself a Mustang right now, I’ve found a prominent place on my collector’s shelf for this fabulous die cast, and I hung this tapestry throw on the wall of my den to inspire me.

I have a few T-shirts to wear while I dream of the day I ditch the mini-van and cruise the streets in my very own Mustang, pretending I’m sitting next to Steve McQueen as all heads turn to notice us. I better start practicing my “cool” look!

Barbie® Celebrates 50 Years Of Fun and Fantasy!

noreply@blogger.com (Betty) — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 05:47:04 PST

One of my fondest childhood memories is playing with Barbie dolls. By the hour, my neighbor and I would pretend that our dolls were best friends, housewives, movie stars, teachers, and brides. We were so proud and protective of our vinyl cases, filled with lovely clothes hung on tiny hangers, and the little drawers that held her shoes and handbags. We could never have imagined what Mattel® had in store for our favorite fashion doll.

It’s hard to believe that Barbie (full name Barbara Millicent Roberts) is celebrating her 50^th birthday. Much has changed since 1959 – she’s gone from ponytail to page boy, bubble cut to bouncy curls, from feather cut to long sun-streaked locks. Her body proportions have changed from impossibly endowed to improbably perfect. Her bevy of best friends and family members has expanded from just Midge to include Ken, Allan, Skipper, Scooter, Stacie, Francie, Steffi, P.J., Todd & Tutti, and too many more to mention. She’s owned a dream house, a motor home, a Corvette, ski cabin, beach cruiser, hot tub party bus, and over 40 different pets! Her clothes have been styled by Armani, Dior, Givenchy, Tommy Hilfiger, Vera Wang, and dozens of other famous designers.

Barbie has transcended her original role as a snooty high-fashion model with a boyfriend to a smiling, independent professional woman who is successful at everything she does. So far, she has tackled more than 100 careers, including figure skater, rock star, teacher, doctor, paleontologist, astronaut, ballerina, firefighter, veterinarian, Army medic, superhero, NASCAR driver, chef, and even made a run for President!

The secret of her longevity? Barbie is a Renaissance woman. She’s always at the forefront of change, always embracing the future and the next goal on her horizon. No matter what the generation, little girls will always relate to those goals, and dream of achieving their own, and that will never change. Happy 50^th birthday Barbie, and many more!

Make Mine A Clean Comedy Routine, Please!

noreply@blogger.com (Betty) — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 08:26:53 PST

Recently, I decided to kick back with the kids and rent a few newly-released comedy DVDs. First of all, we were hard-pressed to find something suitable for the pre-teen, without worrying about what she would be hearing and seeing. Although there were some laughs and funny special effects, I just can’t help but compare the movies we rented to what I consider REAL comedy—Abbott & Costello!

Signed to Universal Studios in 1939, this talented twosome was responsible for at least 2 movies a year (and sometimes 3) for ten years, then averaged another movie a year for the next ten years—36 feature films in all! Most of the supporting cast appeared over and over again in different roles, but we hardly noticed. We just sat back in our theater seats with our box of popcorn nestled in our lap, and enjoyed the routines and slapstick antics in films like “Buck Privates,” “Naughty Nineties,” “Africa Screams,” and my all-time favorite monster classic, “Abbott & Costello Meet Frankenstein.”

Bud and Lou were well-known for lifting morale during World War II. They eagerly lent their talent to the war effort by funding an out-of-pocket cross-country tour to help raise funds for the War Bond Drive. They sold out everywhere they played, raising a phenomenal $89 million in just three days! As television’s popularity grew, the duo easily made the transition from big screen to small, just as they had made the leap from vaudeville to movies. Perhaps their biggest accomplishment is being inducted into the world-famous Baseball Hall of Fame, in recognition of their “Who’s On First?” routine. Did you know they were the first non-baseball-playing celebrities to be inducted? A well-deserved honor, indeed.

So, today’s technology aside, there’s a lot to be said for the good, old-fashioned clean comedy in yesterday’s films. As a parent, not having to shield my son’s eyes or my daughter’s ears when two people interact on the screen is priceless. It’s no surprise to me that Abbott & Costello, and many other comedy icons of years past, continue to delight us older fans while constantly finding new generations of appreciative ones.

Buddy Holly’s Legacy Lives On

noreply@blogger.com (Betty) — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 14:34:24 PST

In his tribute song “American Pie,” songwriter Don MacLean gave us the phrase, “The day the music died” in reference to Feb. 3, 1959. On that frigid night during a blinding snowstorm, a small plane crashed into an Iowa field, instantly killing all passengers on board. The charter held a small contingent of musicians, fresh from a performance at the Surf Club in Clear Lake, heading off to the next leg of their tour. Among them were recording artists The Big Bopper, Ritchie Valens, and most notably, Buddy Holly, a young singer/songwriter/guitarist who had enjoyed success for only a year and a half before the plane crash.

Holly was considered very innovative at the time, with a sophisticated style not seen during his day. He has been credited with influencing many of his peers and countless other musicians who came after him. The Everly Brothers, Bob Dylan, Keith Richards, Bruce Springsteen, The Beach Boys, Paul Simon, Elvis Costello, even Lennon and McCartney, have attributed Holly’s style as having inspired their own music. In fact, Paul McCartney was so taken with Buddy Holly’s music, he bought the publishing rights to Holly’s song catalog.

Buddy Holly’s short career inspired posthumous record releases, movies, a Broadway musical, an annual tribute tour, a number of monuments, a long list of modern-day song lyrics, and more. With hundreds of artists immortalizing Buddy Holly in hundreds of different ways, he remains an unforgettable legend in pop culture history. That’s why we at Betty’s Attic believe the music will never die!

Famous Couples Inspire Valentine Feelings

noreply@blogger.com (Betty) — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 05:58:16 PST

The approach of Valentine’s Day made me think of some of the most famous couples in history, and their loving relationships that made them so memorable.

There’s the epic star-crossed lover’s saga of Rhett & Scarlett. We hoped
against hope that they would find their way back to each other. 6:54:04 AM
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We loved the “wacky wife and harried husband” team of Lucy & Ricky. No matter what, their love kept them together.

Elvis and Priscilla, the famous star and his young bride were a little less traditional, and nothing like The King’s Hollywood movies!

Will they or won’t they? No relationship was more full of mystery and surprises than Superman™ & Lois Lane.

Who could resist a love story right out of a fairy tale, like a Disney® character?

We can’t forget those
all-American campus sweethearts, Midge and Allan.

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Raggedy Ann® & Andy.

Although they had very different styles, these couples managed to say “We’re meant for each other” in unique ways that have made their classic love a part of pop culture history!

Popcorn Offers More Than a Kernel of Nostalgia

noreply@blogger.com (Betty) — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 07:30:58 PST

I just read that January 2009 is the 50th birthday of one of our favorite childhood treats – Jiffy Pop®! Yes, that little foil pan required a few minutes of vigorous stovetop shaking before yielding even fewer edible kernels of popped corn—but, it’s still one of our most nostalgic memories of yesteryear!

You’d have to be pretty old not to remember popcorn--according to archaeologists, it’s been around for about 5,000 years now! Columbus, Cortez and other explorers wrote about natives not only eating popcorn, but decorating headdresses and other ceremonial garb with the fluffy white kernels. French explorers reported taking part in an Iroquois dinner that included popcorn soup and popcorn beer! Supposedly, native Americans brought popcorn to the first Thanksgiving, and it made such a good impression on the colonists, they took to eating popped corn for breakfast with sugar and cream—way before anyone ever heard of Wheaties®, Cheerios®, or Rice Krispies®! (Do you think George Washington ever got kernels caught in his wooden teeth?)

Popcorn reached its height of popularity between the first and second World Wars, when Americans tripled their consumption. This was mostly because it was inexpensive even during the Great Depression, and also because war rationing limited the sugar available for other treats. But now, much to every popcorn lover’s delight, we can buy jelly beans in the mouth-watering flavor of buttered popcorn—talk about doubling your pleasure!

For most of us, it’s popcorn’s association with entertainment that keeps it one of our favorite snacks. What’s a trip to the movies without it? Can you imagine the circus, or the county fair, or a ballgame without the smell of popcorn wafting on the air? Of course not! And now that many of us are trying to watch our budgets and spend more time at home, popcorn remains an inexpensive way to turn just another night in front of the TV into a real event! Now is a great time to pop up a batch with our Kettle Popper or Jukebox Popper. Personally, I think it tastes best with a dash of salt, a bit of butter, and a rousing game of Pass The Popcorn™ Movie Trivia!

Here’s To Lucy—May The Laughs Never End!

noreply@blogger.com (Betty) — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 06:32:47 PST

In “Lucy Goes To The Hospital,” Episode #56 of I Love Lucy™, the Ricardos become parents. When this episode aired on January 19, 1953, it was the most-watched television program ever, beating out Queen Elizabeth’s coronation and President Eisenhower’s inauguration! The hilarious events leading up to Little Ricky’s birth are exactly the kind of laughs that made I Love Lucy such a memorable program then, and one of our favorite television memories today.

Who could forget Lucy and Ethel’s foray into the working world in Episode #39, “Job Switching?” Or when the gang went to Europe, and the gals wore their “Paris gowns” in Episode #147? And no matter what the foursome bickered about, we always knew they would patch things up at the end.

The last original episode of I Love Lucy was broadcast on May 6, 1957. Almost fifty-two years later, Lucy is never far from our hearts. We never tire of watching the kooky redhead worm her herself in and out of every preposterous situation and improbable predicament imaginable, time and time again. The enduring appeal of the show is why Lucy will always be the Queen of Comedy here at Betty’s Attic. Long may she reign!

Revisiting RinTinTin And Other Western Heroes

noreply@blogger.com (Betty) — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 12:46:14 PST

Recently, a family we know adopted an adorable German Shepherd pup. While at their house, we watched him frolicking in the grass, as they discussed what his new name should be. “How about RinTinTin?” my husband suggested. The family shot him a collective puzzled look, and it became obvious that he and I were the only ones in the group old enough to remember ol’ Rinty—the best dog to ever roam the Wild West! So of course he had to explain, and that’s when we got on the subject of TV westerns.

From the early 1950s through the late 1960s, there were about 120 different westerns on television. Back then, it was easy to tell the good guys from the bad guys, mostly from the color of their hats! The stories were action-packed morality lessons, full of suspense, but you always knew the hero would prevail in the end, usually riding off into the sunset with a beautiful woman on the back of his horse as the credits rolled.

But, times change. These days, the gang is more likely to gather ‘round the campfire to toast marshmallows than rustle up some grub, and the TV western has pretty much gone the way of the dinosaur. Unless you have connections, that is—and I do—in which case, you could turn on the TV and enjoy one of those old westerns anytime! It just so happens that The Attic carries (dare I say it?) a bonanza of classic TV westerns on DVD (plus some big-screen favorites thrown in for good measure). So, happy trails—and happy viewing—until we meet again!

Tales of an Opera House and an Ocean Liner

noreply@blogger.com (Betty) — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 05:45:11 PST

Every New Year’s Day, my family likes to gather for a movie marathon. It’s our tradition to pop the popcorn, pour the sodas, and settle back for a few hours of Hollywood’s best. This year, we treated ourselves to the 2004 film version of The Phantom Of The Opera, and 1997’s Titanic.

Of course we all know that Titanic is based on actual events, but did you know that The Phantom of The Opera is also based on a true story? Author Gaston Leroux’s story was inspired by another novel entitled Trilby, an accounting of events that took place at a Paris opera house, reportedly haunted by a ghost. Although Trilby was not a successful novel and soon went out of print, Leroux’s Phantom has seen many film and stage adaptations, most notably the 1925 film version with Lon Chaney, and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s current stage musical.

Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera musical is not only Broadway’s longest-running musical of all time, it is the most lucrative entertainment enterprise of all time! Since its opening in January of 1986, its worldwide box office has out-grossed even the highest-grossing film in history--Titanic!

With such rich stories behind them occupying such prestigious places in entertainment history, we think you’ll agree that these classics are deserving of our wonderful commemorative collectibles, and a 11:29:57 AM
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Titanic Pop-Up book, with foldout model of the majestic ocean liner, and a 32-page book tracing the events that led to her tragic end.

Barbie® as Rose, the heroine of the 1997 film, dressed in a stunning recreation of her character’s crimson gown.

A replica of the Monkey Music Box left behind in the Phantom’s lair, which Raoul later purchases at the Opera House auction. Plays “Masquerade.”

The Phantom’s Lair Musical portraying the scene where Erik takes Christine to his underground hideaway. Plays “Music of the Night.” Extremely limited quantities.

It’s Walt Disney’s World—We Just Live In It!

noreply@blogger.com (Betty) — Mon, 29 Dec 2008 07:23:43 PST

December marks the anniversary of both the birth and death of Walt Disney. He wore many hats in the field of entertainment--film producer, director, screenwriter, voice actor, animator, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. Of course, what he is most remembered for is the creation of a cartoon mouse character that has since become one of the most recognizable symbols in the world.

Mickey Mouse made his debut in 1928, in a silent cartoon entitled Plane Crazy, but it is his first cartoon with sound, Steamboat Willie, that is usually acknowledged as Mickey’s beginnings. Walt Disney provided the voice of Mickey, his soon-to-be sweetheart Minnie, and other sound effects.

Like any true entrepreneur, Disney saw his share of failures and setbacks along his personal road to success. His business saw the breakup of a long-standing partnership, failed contract negotiations, strikes, comic strip and television program cancellations, huge debt followed by massive layoffs, accusations of anti-Soviet propaganda, and more than one lawsuit. In the long run, however, his perseverance paid off, because he also enjoyed the successes we remember so fondly—comic strip characters, cartoons, television programs, full-length feature films, and of course, the theme parks--all beginning with an unassuming little mouse!

Luckily for us, Walt Disney believed in himself and never lost sight of his dream to bring happiness, laughter, and wonderful memories to his audience. We at Betty’s Attic can identify with his goal, and it is in this spirit that we offer you our own Disney memorabilia. Enjoy!

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At Home With Elvis At Holiday Time

noreply@blogger.com (Betty) — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 09:00:05 PST

The holiday season at Elvis Presley’s Graceland is an extensive spectacle--the grounds illuminated with blue lights, a life-size Nativity scene, Santa and sleigh, and Presley family artifacts on display. I’m a big Elvis fan myself, and I made a memorable trip to Graceland a few years back. I was inspired by the displays outside and inside the mansion itself—the red velvet drapes and all the small touches that made it Elvis’ home. I thought it only fitting to offer our finest Elvis memorabilia to you at Christmas, the holiday he loved so well, so you can carry on his tradition in his style.

The White Christmas stocking trimmed with faux fur adds a finishing holiday touch, hung from your mantel or on your tree. Drape an Elvis-themed throw over a sofa, bed, or use it as a wall hanging. With two styles to choose from, you can decorate with Elvis at Christmas and all during the year. Our exclusive light-up figure featuring Elvis and Mabel, his favorite teddy bear, is uniquely ours--you won’t find anywhere else! The shimmering Christmas tree gives it a very retro look.

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I’ve also discovered a way to blend two icons of the past that are still popular today—Elvis and Pez®! This set is a limited edition, not widely available and not likely to be released again. The special storage case allows viewing, but keeps them in pristine condition for the true collector. Another limited edition is the stunning Elvis cookie jar. The faux gemstones make it sparkle and shine just like on of the King’s studded white jumpsuits! It will command center stage on your countertop all year through.

It’s easy to outfit yourself in Elvis, too! When you’re indoors, show off your style in the black T-shirt with sparkling glitter accents. Head outdoors wrapped in the comfort of the Elvis hooded sweatshirt. Top off your outfit with the White Christmas Santa-style cap! Now, go have yourself a holiday fit for The King!

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Favorite Toys Stand The Test Of Time

noreply@blogger.com (Betty) — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 06:09:09 PST

My daughter handed me her Christmas list today. She’s got that one “must-have” item on there, which got me thinking, I’ll bet everyone can remember a Christmas when they asked for that one fabulous present. Hopefully, you received it and had tons of fun playing with it!

For me, it was an Easy-Bake® oven. Those cakes looked so good on the commercials! Finally, Christmas arrived and there it was under the tree—a beautiful yellow oven with my name on it! For months, I had pictured myself creating confectionary masterpieces and serving them up to the delight of my family, everyone nodding and licking their lips in delight. In reality, I had a hard time convincing anyone to try my baked goods. I had much better luck with the weaving loom. I mastered those potholders in no time flat, and over-and-undered enough of them to fill a drawer in our kitchen, and my grandma’s as well! In fact, when I moved to my first apartment, a few of those colorful potholders came with me, and I still have them. My daughter now uses her own loom to make potholders for me!

That’s just one of the many toys in our collection that have stood the test of time. Share them with a kid you love, or get one for yourself, just for the fun of it!

Bozo Bop Bag – He never stops smiling, and he never hits back!

Raggedy Ann – She’s been cuddling up with kids for over 90 years.

Etch-A-Sketch – Doodle the day away without using a piece sheet of paper!

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Classic Monopoly – Hey, weren’t you the banker last time?

John Lennon’s Words Still Echo Loudly

noreply@blogger.com (Betty) — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 07:48:51 PST

I will never, ever forget that winter evening when a Monday Night Football game was interrupted by an announcement that, in an unspeakable act of senseless violence, John Lennon had been murdered. This most famous man of music and peace was just 40 years old. It was December 8, 1980.

Arguably the most charismatic of the Beatles, John had an engaging sense of humor to match his boundless musical talent. He was also a gifted graphic artist, and after the birth of his second child, a devoted family man. He had a keen way of reinventing himself so we never got bored “watching the wheels go ‘round and round.” To us, he appeared to have it all—fame, wealth, talent—but he could not realize his one true dream of uniting his fellow man.

Why would someone shoot John Lennon? we asked then. We still ask. John may be gone, but his message lives on through his music. If you listen, you can hear it loud and clear. Practice love and forgiveness. Exercise tolerance. Strive for harmony. Give peace a chance.

Calendars Mark Time And Trends

noreply@blogger.com (Betty) — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 05:45:02 PST

Yesterday, I was going through a box of old papers and came across a calendar from 1988. At first, I was wondering how it escaped the trash, but then I looked through the pictures and remembered why I saved it. It was an ALF® calendar, complete with Melmac’s planetary holidays prominently marked! At the time, I was such a fan of the furry little guy, I couldn’t bear to throw it out! It made me realize that through the years, I’ve owned so many calendars featuring so many different subjects, I couldn’t begin to name them all, and I’ll bet you have, too.

Did you know that, starting way back in 1891, a calendar was among the first items produced by Coca-Cola® used to promote their product?

The most popular calendars have featured lovely ladies, starting with the Gibson Girls in the early 1900s, and peaking with the calendar girls that were so popular in the 40s and 50s. Actually, that trend has never gone out of style, because swimsuit models (and even more scantily-clad beauties) still top the list of the most popular calendars out there. Speaking of trends, remember those funky kitchen calendars printed on burlap from the late 60s and early 70s? Let’s hope that one doesn’t come back around!

Today, there is virtually no end to the subject matter for calendars. You’ll find your favorite subject, from pets, babies, cars, motorcycles, tractors, firemen (ooh, firemen…), cheerleaders, landscapes, seascapes, wildlife, plant life, TV stars, movies & music--the list is practically endless. And I would certainly be remiss if I failed to mention that Betty has a few of her own in the Attic just for you! Check them out!