Johnny Crow

Examples of Writing, Editing, and Research By Johnny Crow These are items that had to be thoroughly researched, described by technical detail as well as written to raise the potential sale price of an item at auction. Each description was researched, written, and edited by me. Example 1 Written and Published online and in print for American Memorabilia 1951 A.C. Gilbert U-238 Atomic Energy Lab A.C. Gilbert was a man of true inspiration, often compared to Walt Disney for his creative genius. Gilbert had high expectations of America's youngsters, and with such, he tried to help the future engineers, doctors, and leaders by providing toys worthy of their imaginations. As the inventor of the Erector Set, and seeing its commercial appeal, he and his company set a higher goal. They became the leading manufacturer of scientific toys (chemistry sets) and construction sets (Erector), all of which gained wide acclaim at the retail level. Interested in the joy of science more than remuneration, however, Gilbert created the Atomic Energy Lab U-238 - with the help of MIT's able faculty. The toy was made to demystify the perils of nuclear energy and to encourage the understanding of chemistry, physics and nuclear science - ultimately helping kids (and adults) become more open to the possibilities these disciplines offer. This educational composite, which was marketed during 1950-51, sold for $49.50 - a very high price for a toy set, even by today's standard. One such, Gilbert's "Atomic Energy Lab", is here available and it includes the majority of the original componentry which detail: 1. Spinthariscope to watch "live" radioactive disintegration. 2. Wilson Cloud Chamber to see paths of electrons & alpha particles at 10k MPs 3. Two very low-level radioactive sources (Beta, Gamma). To note, Alpha is missing. 4. Four samples of Uranium-bearing ores 5. Nuclear Spheres (used to visual build models of molecules) 6. The book "Prospecting for Uranium" 7. The comic book "Learn How Dagwood Splits the Atom" All of these components were retail-presented in a sturdy, hinged case that measures 25" x 16 1/2" x 5", all with an easy-to-carry handle. The case came in a beautiful faux snakeskin cover with "Gilbert U-238 Atomic Energy Lab" wonderfully stenciled on the cover, and atomic particles displayed below. The set we offer here has the majority of original pieces but a few are missing (i.e. Electroscope, Instruction Book, etc.). The components are in excellent condition with some indications of play use. The case remains in its wonderful red color with minimal wear to the surface and survives in very strong EX/MT condition. Inside the cover, there appears a full dimension, illustrated paper appliqué which is in Excellent condition. The two books are still in EX/MT-NM condition. Overall, the entire set (remarkably almost complete) is a true find and though we can't physically go back to the time when atomic energy and toys were as fascinating as this, we may reminisce on how much fun it was to be a kid. Example 2 Written and Published online and in print for American Memorabilia 1936 Benito Mussolini and King Emmanuel III Signed Document This official document (appearing to deal with a land tract) bearing the title "Victor Emmanuel III, King of Italy, Emperor of Ethiopia" astoundingly holds the bold fountain pen signatures of both King Victor Emmanuel III and Prime Minister Benito Mussolini, each "10" in quality. This exquisite document is dated September 1936 and also bears the stamp and signature from the Ministry of Finance, as well as Court Accounts. Measuring 10" x 15", it's in EX condition, and it features the typical stampings, calligraphy, and handwritten notation of government officialdom. This official state document is from one of the most pivotal periods in 20th Century history and is well worthy of a significant display Example 3 Written and Published online and in print for American Memorabilia 1960s Elvis Presley's Personal Entertainment Console (w/Museum Auction Catalog) Born in Tupelo, Miss., Elvis Aaron Presley started out as a country boy with little more than what his impoverished family could afford. Coming from these humble roots, to become not only an international success but also an icon in his time, Presley aspired to attain the finest for himself and his family. As his favorite motto "Taking Care of Business" suggested, Elvis ultimately captured the finest in personal effects. Included among these was this exquisite Magnavox entertainment console, which comes directly from his Graceland mansion. Indications suggest this console was a product of the mid-1960s, in which case it was used while Elvis was starting his comeback in 1968. As confirmed in The Elvis Presley Museum Collection catalog, which is included in this listing, the TV is mounted in walnut wood in a neoclassic-style cabinet with imitation marble pillars on each side. The front panel slides open to reveal the 22"-vertical television set. The top panels also conveniently slide to avail the stereo components. (While the electrical cord was cut, it can easily be fixed.) It's unknown if the components work. The keepsake was purchased from the Butterfield and Butterfield Elvis Presley Auction on June 1994. The bidder will be required to pay shipping charges, which will likely total approximately $600 (subject to destination). Then again, it's a token fee for such a treasure that was one of the King's principal domestic furnishings. Example 4 The research was done for Author Jeff Mariotte Las Vegas - High Stake Game by Jeff Mariotte I provided research on the history of the city as well as several locations within Las Vegas, NV for Mr. Mariotte.