History of Fashion from a Technical Perspective

Tuesday, October 10, 7:00 p.m.

Former Fashion Institute Librarian Alex Kosztowny returns to Crowell Library on Tuesday, October 10, with another talk about fashion history, this time from a technical perspective.  Most people do not think about the craft and construction aspects that go into garment creation, but these elements play a vital role.

Up until the latter part of the 20^th century, methods of producing clothing had remained relatively unchanged. With the advent of mechanical processes such as the cotton gin, the sewing machine, and different weaving looms, fashion has been able to be transformed into a booming business that focuses on mass production, globalization, and outsourcing. These inventions have made fashion quicker, cheaper, and more readily available, yet certain elements still remain unchanged. It is just in the last decade that advancements such as 3D printing have seen an advancement in fashion that is truly new and unique, and catapulting us into the future. 

This expansion does not come without costs, however. Kosztowny will delve into labor issues and regulations, environmental impacts, and how fashion is affecting the health and well-being of the planet and its residents.

Alex Kosztowny is a Los Angeles based freelance designer and librarian who focuses on art, fashion, textiles, and the preservation of materials. He was an instruction and reference services librarian at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM) in Los Angeles and now works for the County of Los Angeles.  He holds his master’s degree in library and information science from the University of California at Los Angeles as well as degrees in fashion knitwear design, theatre costume design, and business management.

Come to Crowell Library for this fascinating look at fashion history at Crowell Library October 10^th at 7:00 p.m.

Navigating the Maze of Medicare: Part E Supplemental Plans

Wednesday, October 4 – 7:00 p.m.

Health Insurance Specialist John Dickey returns to the Barth Community Room on Wednesday, October 4 at 7:00 p.m. to discuss Part E of Medicare, which includes the Supplemental Plans that function like PPOs.  These plans are also referred to as MediGap policies.  John will go through a carrier's 2017 Supplemental Plan Enrollment Guide Book, step by step.  There will be a question and answer period to address any other Medicare issues patrons might have.  An excellent, generic 2017-2018 guidebook on all aspects of Medicare will also be given to every attendee to take home.

John’s guidance and advocacy on behalf of seniors is always totally independent of any insurance company/carrier, and is governed by CMS (Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services).  He will serve as a free resource and advocate, now and at any time in the future, to help people find the Medicare information needed.  His consultations and advocacy work are always free.  John has given numerous presentations throughout San Gabriel Valley on Medicare, including Arcadia, Altadena and Monrovia.  He frequently attends insurance training seminars and classes to stay current on all government regulations and available plan options.  He is a fully licensed certified Health Insurance Planner, has an MBA, and has lived in San Gabriel Valley for 20 years. 

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn the details of Medicare Part E and to get all other Medicare questions answered.