High School Club Goes to Boston

We had great weather--a bit chilly--for our trip to the ivy-covered halls of learning in Boston and Cambridge. Harvard alum and Rosedale volunteer, Angela, gave us a personal tour of her alma mater. Angela was once a tour guide herself and can still talk and walk backwards with the best of them.

That night we ate Cajun-Tex-Mex at Border Cafe and then went on a driving tour of Bean Town. We stopped by Modern Pastry to snag some delicious canoli and watch the lively nighttime crowds in the North End. We stayed overnight at the H.I. Hostel--Boston. It was very nice and clean and cheap.

Sunday, Mary showed us around Boston University, where she had majored in Hospitality. We then drove around Boston College and squeezed in some Green Mountain ice-cream time before heading back to the Bronx, thus completing our mission to visit as many colleges and eat as many sweets as possible.

Service With A Smile

Some members of our High School Club graciously agreed to help serve as waiters at the South Bronx Educational Foundation's Spring Event, a fundraiser for Rosedale and Crotona. Aricelis, Jennifer, Marianna, Sasha, Heidi and Stephanie underwent a grueling training session (just kidding) in preparation for the big night.

They all did a fantastic job serving up rice balls, fried artichokes, and sandwiches to a hungry crowd. Thanks a million, you guys!!! You were essential to the night's success.

Open Mic at Cafe Rosedale

The First Annual 2007 Open Mic at Cafe Rosedale was a success! High School Club members gave some brave and crazy performances: Cynthia performed original poetry, an original song (big hit!) and, with Regina, a duet from "Rent." Jennifer recited a poem by Lorca in both English and Spanish. She also, along with Yzamar and Claudia, performed a highly "dramatic" skit. Cynthia and Jennifer made everyone laugh with their rendition of the classic Abbott and Costello piece, "Who's on First?" Other highlights were poetry from both Yzamar and Amanda.

Afterwards, we all enjoyed delicious treats such as Aricelis' endless batch of brownies, Yzamar's Rosedale cookies, Amanda's popular Confetti Cake, and Ms. Coates' baked ziti. Thanks to everyone for contributing to the event!! We were all inspired by the many artistic and culinary talents of our members.

Budget Fashionista Kathryn Finney Visits Rosedale!

On Saturday, Kathryn Finney and her assistant Tahesha came and talked to the High School Club. Kathryn gave everyone a free copy of her book, "How to Be a Budget Fashionista." After taking the book's fashion quiz to discover their fashion personality, the girls looked through magazines to create a "Look Book," a collection of pictures that captured their personal style. Kathryn then gave some tips on how to achieve those designer looks for less:

1. Shop in thrift stores in wealthier areas like SoHo and Chelsea. Two to try are Housing Works and Angel. These stores also have special deals and sales throughout the year.

2. If you see something you love, but it's too expensive at full price, mark your calendars. It will most likely go on sale in 6-8 weeks.

3. Don't ever spend over $50 on jeans! Go to Wal-Mart and check out their Faded Glory brand. Kathryn swears by it. She wore them to Fashion Week and got many compliments.

4. Torrid is a good place for plus-sized trendy wear. If you are petite, you might want to try the kids' section of your favorite stores, like GapKids or Crew Cuts. Some stores, like Banana Republic, also have petite options online. Tall girls, or those with other fit requests, should call a store when it's not busy and explain your needs. Most salespeople will be happy to help you and make suggestions.

5. When shopping at a discount store such as Century 21, try going during a weekday, if you can, to avoid the massive crowds.

After completing our Look Books, Kathryn answered questions about fashion and shopping. One piece of advice she left us with was not to worry when life takes you in an unexpected direction. Before becoming the Budget Fashionista, Kathryn was studying diseases in Ghana! At the end of the session, Kathryn signed everyone's book. Happy shopping to you, too, Kathryn! And thanks so much for visiting us at Rosedale. You are welcome back anytime!