OK, So THIS Is The Best Way To Answer THEM

Liberals always seem to want to interrogate conservatives -- but on liberals' terms.
They seem to want to put us "on the stand" as if we have committed some crime. Then they get to ask loaded questions and control the subject. Don't let them do it.
It's no crime to embrace common-sense conservative beliefs.  
Here's what I told one liberal who tried this on me not too long ago:

Let's get this straight: I am not under oath; I'm not on the stand and I'm not here to be interrogated by you or anyone else. Interrogation is a form of control, nothing more. THAT is a classic tactic.
Now, in one month Obama, Clinton and their friends have racked up a bigger debt than George W. Bush did in a whole year. The mounting federal debt is robbing us of our freedom and liberty and threatens to enslave our nation. It will certainly deprive our children and grandchildren of options they might otherwise have had. The shaky state of the dollar (related to the deficit) is also cause for concern. If you don't understand that debt that grows out of proportion to the GDP threatens our future then you're missing a very simple, practical point: When we work for our own money instead of insisting on handouts; when we are able to keep more of what we earn; when we practice economic common sense and avoid going into debt, we have more options, more freedom, more opportunities. When we become indebted (either personally or collectively) we close doors to those options or opportunities.
And being indebted to CHINA? Well, that IS scary. 
Bigger and bigger government. Growing debt. More government regulation. A burgeoning and bloated federal work force committed to more and more bureaucracy -- this is not the path to freedom and liberty.
Personal responsibility -- rugged individualism -- that's what made America great. The common sense of hard-working, ordinary Americans made us the greatest country on earth. Reagan, again: "Government exists to protect us from each other. Where government has gone beyond its limits is in deciding to protect us from ourselves."
As we face growing and alarming challenges, I wonder if Obama, Clinton and the Democrats realize this. I wonder if they even see it. I wonder if they believe in American exceptionalism. I know that I do. And I pray -- yes, PRAY -- that future generations do as well.

The Eternal Appeal Of A Seductive Oasis

It's like a vast ruin. But a ruin that remains relentlessly seductive.

It will begin to captivate you almost from the first moment you gaze upon it.

It's vast yet intimate, scruffy and magnificent, timeless and trendy, indifferent yet charming.

You must remember that it's preserved, not restored.

Keep all of these things in mind as you visit, as you encounter it, as you begin your relationship with Venezia. For it is a relationship that will stay with you forever. And like an irresistible lover, Venice will keep drawing you back.

When I first walked into St. Mark's Square (San Marco) more than a couple of decades ago I was struck not just by its vastness but by the light, the architecture, the music at the open air cafes, the scale and balance of the place and the spell it cast over all who encountered it.

Now I have that same feeling again as I return.

You truly cannot compare it to anyplace else in the world. And yet, in many ways St. Mark's is the "throwaway" part of Venice -- the overture; the premie; the showy, touristy bait. Still, it is what you will remember when you think of Venice.

But you will also remember the cozy alleyways and passages, the numerous piazzas tucked into the most unlikely spots, the tiny bridges over narrow canals, the shops, trattorias and outdoor markets, the water lapping against piers, and the sudden joy of finding yourself totally lost amidst a labyrinth of walkways.

The waking will awaken and enliven you. It will enrich your senses and trigger your imagination in ways you never expected.

And you must walk for there is no other way around save for a gondola or water taxi and they can be quite expensive.

So, bring yourself back to your youth -- to a simple time -- and just walk and keep walking and see where it all leads. 

Venice was made for all this -- for the shock of bright sunlight in welcoming squares; for stolen kisses at corner cafes; for fresh gelato and perfectly cooked pasta and that cappuccino and biscotti you've been longing for.

Bella Venezia!

  

Now Here's An Idea That's Just Plain Dumb!

A proposal by Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop and the City Council mandating that certain private employers in the city provide a minimum 30-hour work week is coming under fire this week from Americans for Prosperity, the state’s leading advocate for economic freedom.

“Mayor Fulop and the City Council have gone too far this time,” fired Americans for Prosperity state director Erica Jedynak. “They have no right to tell employers how to run their business like this and it’s time someone called them out for their divisive, bullying tactics.”

“Most employers are also honest, hard-working people who would love nothing more than to pay their employees a higher wage. But if this mandate goes into effect, there’s little question there will be grave, unintended consequences. These employers will have little choice but to let some of their workers go.”

“Americans for Prosperity empathizes with all families who are struggling to get by here in New Jersey. And we understand that our state is becoming more and more affordable for many lower- and middle-class families,” continued Jedynak. “But if we really care about low-income families and giving them a chance at a better life, then let’s start by addressing the root causes of what’s limiting economic opportunities in our state—our crushing tax burden and overbearing state government.”

“For the sake of New Jersey families we need to get past this kind of divisive politics which pits honest employers against their workers. We need to move beyond the false promise that another government mandate is all it takes to guarantee someone happiness, a high-paying job or a ‘living wage,” said Jedynak. “Instead, we should be focused on pursuing a positive agenda that expands economic opportunity and makes it easier for all of us to achieve the American dream here in New Jersey.”

For further information, please contact Mike Proto at MProto@afphq.org or 201-400-3666.

All Hail The Queen, Sunday May 1

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia invites everyone to honor the Blessed Mother, Our Lady of Mercy, during this Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy at the second annual May Procession. This year’s theme is Who is the Mary in

Your Life? 

Sunday, May 1, 2016

2:00 p.m.

Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul

18th Street and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway

Philadelphia, PA 19103

The celebration will begin with a Liturgy of the Word in the Cathedral followed by an outdoor May Procession, rosary and crowning of the Blessed Mother.

The May Queen will be selected from brief essays submitted by individuals entitled: Who is the Mary in Your Life?

For more information on the May Procession please visit www.firstsundayinmay.org. 

They Were ALWAYS Too Late, ALWAYS!

So now we have a situation where Ted Cruz is about to announce his vice presidential pick.

And speculation is rampant that it will be Fiorina.

In fact it IS Fiorina. He just announced it.

But one is tempted to ask -- indeed, one MUST ask -- what difference does it make?

Not since 1976 when Ronald Reagan announced his running mate choice well in advance of the convention has this happened. And we all know what happened to Reagan in that 1976 campaign.

This is very late in the game. Donald Trump has pretty much run the table. He's had an absolutely astounding string of victories. 

Can Cruz still be a threat? Does he have any chance? Unlikely.

And Kasich has come across as desperate as well.

You have to scratch your head and wonder how so many people could have been wrong about so much -- how they could have so badly miscalculated this year. It's not just Kasich and Cruz. It's the whole Republican establishment. They basically blew it. Blew it Big Time.

And if there's one thing that had characterized their efforts (and we're going all the way back to Romney and Boehner and McConnell) it's that they've all been too late on the uptake. Too little (when they've fought back at all) and too late. And that goes for their responses to Obama and the Democrats too.

It's all been inadequate.

And it's all been way too late.

So, here we are.

But, thank goodness, it seems a new Republican Party is emerging right in front of us, right before our eyes -- just like 1980 when Ronald Reagan finally DID get his act together and seemingly reinvented American politics and then went on to change the shape of the world. Reagan started (Do we have to remind you?) but overturning the Republican establishment. He basically vanquished them.

And they were very, very angry. But they got over it. Indeed they did!

We don't know what the new GOP is gonna be like. We know that it will most likely be headed by Trump but we don't know all the details yet. And we really weren't sure with Reagan, either.

Not completely sure, anyway.

What we do know is this: It was time for a big, dramatic change because GOP voters have felt hopelessly betrayed. And so the change will come.

As open-minded Republicans who welcome new people, new ideas, new opportunities, new coalitions (if that's what it will take) and we say: "Bring it on!"

Don't Miss This Super One-Day Doughnut Deal!

TOMORROW (4/28) ONLY!

Can You Guess Where Dan Cirucci Blog Is Headed?

OhhhhhYEAH!
Stay wth us over the next couple of weeks, everybody . . . there's plenty more to come! You won't wanna miss it all.

Big Stars At AC Golden Nugget This Summer!

In NJ, A New Way For Charitable Deductions

New Jersey State Senate Republican Leader Tom Kean and Senator Diane Allen will visit Paulsdale, the historic Mt. Laurel home of suffragist and women’s rights activist Alice Paul, on Thursday, April 28th, to discuss the importance of legislation (S-1932) to create a charitable deduction for contributions to New Jersey-based non-profits. The non-profit Alice Paul Institute seeks to fulfill the life-long mission of Alice Paul to achieve full gender equality worldwide. (Wikimedia Commons) Kean and Allen will be joined by Lucienne Beard, Executive Director of the Alice Paul Institute. Who: Senate Republican Leader Tom Kean; Sen. Diane Allen; Lucienne Beard, Executive Director of the Alice Paul Institute. What: Press conference on legislation creating an income tax deduction for charitable giving. When: Thursday, April 28th at 11 a.m. Where: Alice Paul Institute (Paulsdale), 128 Hooten Road, Mount Laurel, NJ 08054 The Alice Paul Institute, a not-for-profit 501(c)3 organization, seeks to fulfill the life-long mission of Alice Paul to achieve full gender equality worldwide, and works to develop future generations of leaders and human rights activists. Paul’s legacy was highlighted this month by President Obama’s dedication of the Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument in Washington, D.C., and by the United States Treasury Department’s announcement that Paul is one of five leaders of the women’s suffrage movement who will be featured on the back of redesigned $10 bills. Related Facebook Post: https://www.facebook.com/dianeallennj/posts/10154267447257275 Related Tweet: https://twitter.com/dianeallennj/status/725342072945807360 Website Post: http://www.senatenj.com/index.php/allen/media-advisory-kean-allen-to-visit-alice-paul-institute-in-mt-laurel-tomorrow-428-to-discuss-supporting-non-profits-boosting-charitable-giving/26630

Major Gift Set For Historic Philly School

Archbishop Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap. will join the West Catholic Preparatory High School community, invited guests, and senior leadership from Faith in the Future (FIF) and the Office of Catholic Education (OCE) for the announcement and celebration of a major gift to the school and recognition of its 100 year anniversary, which will kick-off in the fall of 2016.  

 10:00 a.m.

Thursday, April 28, 2016

West Catholic Preparatory High School

Auditorium

4501 Chestnut Street

Philadelphia, PA 19139

West Catholic Preparatory High School has proudly served West Philadelphia and the Center City area for nearly 100 years since opening in the fall of 1916.  In 1926, the De La Salle Christian Brothers arrived at what would become West Philadelphia Catholic High School for Boys at 49th Street between Chestnut and Market Streets.    

In 1989, the Christian Brothers, the Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (I.H.M.), and the Sisters of St. Joseph (S.S.J.), and over 1,000 students, merged the Boys and Girls Schools, to become West Philadelphia Catholic High School at its present location of 4501 Chestnut Street.

West Catholic Preparatory High School prepares each student to face the challenges of everyday life, embrace leadership positions in society, and value service in an ever-changing global society.

Note: For information about Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, please visit www.catholicschools-phl.org.  For more information on Faith in the Future please visit,  http://faithinthefuture.com/.  To learn more about West Catholic Preparatory High School, please visit www.westcatholic.org.

Has It Really Gotten THIS Bad?

Who Though 'Fast Food' Could Be THIS Good?

The new Spicy Southwest Salad at Chick-fil-A is not your ordinary salad. 

It’s packed with flavor and spice - slices of grilled spicy chicken breast, crispy romaine lettuce, red cabbage, carrots, corn, black beans, grape tomatoes, Monterey and cheddar cheese. It’s served with tortilla strips, chili lime Pepitas, and creamy salsa dressing or chili lime vinaigrette. 

It’s an unexpected, fiery lil’ fiesta to cure your dull-salad blues. 

Enjoy this new salad in your next meal at Chick-fil-A!

Doesn't This Actually Make The Most Sense?

Kelly And Michael: Kelly's Stunning Announcement

Kelly's radiant return on Kelly and Michael Live! where she announces news about her future, her feelings about Michael betrayal and what ABC executives have told her about their view of the show going forward. It's a stunner! And Kelly pulled it off beautifully.

Kelly And Michael: Exclusive 'Kelly Returns' Preview

Here's what the reuniting of Kelly and Michael will look like. Bravo!

2016: THIS Is What Got Us Here

Yeah, it's 2016.
And we've already called this The Age of Narcissism -- which is exactly what it is. Never has self-infatuation been more on display than it is now. And it's spilt over -- seeped through, actually like a foul, pernicious goo -- from the popular culture into all of politics. It's done this enabled by the media and an increasingly distracted audience bent on instant gratification.
To be sure, politicians have always had a healthy dose of ego. They've had to because politics really is show business for ugly people. Politics is the obvious haven for those who don't have very much to offer but still think the world of themselves.
And so, that's how we got into this situation this year -- both on the Republican and Democrat sides of the ballot. Ego.
To be fair, you could say this really started with Obama, whose ego has pretty much always been out of control. After all, what else would have convinced someone who was a U. S. Senator for barely 24 months that he should be president? But, let's put Obama aside for a moment. After all, his term is almost up (which is quite appealing, actually) and we don't want to give him anymore attention.
Instead, let's start by looking at the original GOP field.
Seventeen candidates!
What in hell made people like Gilmore and Santorum and Huckabee and Graham and even Perry think they should be running for president in the first place? It had to be ego -- ego and an endless thirst for attention. How else could you possibly explain it?
And so you had a ridiculously huge collection of swelled heads straight across the pachyderm dotted landscape.
Had there only been one or two right-of-center GOP candidates in the race, this would have been an entirely different race and it would be ending differently. But entrenched ego? Well, you know how that is. Entrenched ego rarely faces reality.
So, well past the point where some of these candidates (really, most of them) should have dropped out and/or made a deal or entered into some kind of a pact or whatever, they stayed in and kept slogging along. It was pitiful!
And that was a situation that was tailor-made for Donald Trump. Yes, you remember him, right? He's the man they said would always threaten to run for president but never actually take the risk. Remember?
Well, Trump knows a thing or two about ego. Indeed! As he himself said (in his hugely successful book, How To Get Rich): "Show me someone without an ego, and I'll show you a loser." Now, that's a real maxim for out times, isn't it?
Which translates as follows: The master of all ago seizes the moment, does everything that he can to diminish the multitude of egos around him and survives by mastering the ego-infatuated popular culture with periods of provocation, shock therapy, juvenile humor and catchy slogans. But the slogans astutely channel a combination of people's deepest hopes, fears and visceral longings. In the end, he stands atop a vanquished pile of lilliputians. Well, they weren't really lilliputians, but look at them now. Whew!
And on the Democrat side?
Hmmm . . . actually, every bit as bad -- maybe worse!
Here we've got a power-hungry wife of a wildly-egotistical perjurer and alleged predator.  This is a woman who clawed her way to the top on the backs of two presidents who came to define the modern nature of the oval office as nothing more than a huge, distorted sphere of self-adulation. She's learned from the best.
And what else but ego would convince a husband and wife that they should both King of the World?
Lined up against her we have a beat-up old socialist septuagenarian from Brooklyn who was reportedly thrown out of a commune because he didn't work hard enough -- a man who failed at just about everything he tried until he was so angry at the world for not recognizing his Greatness that he stumbled into politics. What else but ego would make a senator who never passed a single piece of significant legislation think he could or should be president?
Yes, ego got us here.
It was all about ego.
And we'll get to choose from two "yooge" and somewhat paranoiac egos for President of the United States. One sees everyone who opposed her as part of a vast conspiracy -- uncaring, cruel and selfish. The other sees everyone who opposes him as losers -- insecure, unmotivated and dumb.
This is our choice.
It's sort of like Evita vs William Randolph Hearst -- two great egos who actually did run for president of their respective nations.
But is it any worse than some of the other choices we've faced in recent years? Is it?
And this year it seems we will get the chance to vote for an honest-to-goodness outsider -- someone who has never held office, has never even sought office before and has never really been involved in politics in this manner. Indeed, someone who is completely outside the traditional political establishment. Of course, this is precisely a big part of his appeal.
And then there's this: The American people are restless this year.
They're antsy.
There's something gnawing at them.
They don't want to be told what to do or how to do it.
They're thinking: "I'm mad as hell and I'm not going to take it anymore!"
They're in the mood to smash every dish in the dining room breakfront, overturn all the furniture in what's left of the living room, empty all the bedroom drawers onto the floor and let the bathtub water overflow.
But they'll leave the TV and the laptop on, thank you.
So, in that case, against what would seem to be obvious odds, you're well-advised to bet on the master entertainer -- the outsider.
God bless America!

Kelly And Michael: Never To Be Reunited?

People who are supposed to know about these things tell us that Kelly and Michael will be reunited (when Kelly presumably returns) on ABC-TV's Live! later this week.
And, officially, that sounds logical. After all, they're both under contract, they both make a lot of money and there's a show to do this week and every other weekday between now and September when Michael  finally leaves Live! for Good Morning America. (Talk about a l-o-n-g goodbye!)
Still, that sounds about right.
But, we're not so sure.
And, we're betting that if anybody eventually fails to show up for lots and lots of remaining shows it will be Michael. After all, why should Kelly absent herself? She's been doing Live! a whole lot longer than Michael and she's the show's star and prime mover.
So, it's a good bet that Michael will be taking a good many days off or he may simply be leaving the show way early (like in June or even earlier) since the summer is slower anyway.
Frankly, it makes sense for Michael to leave now and save the show and Kelly any future embarrassment.
Because, Michael totally botched it. When he decided to leave the show without informing Kelly first, he done her wrong! Big Time!
He should have explained it all to Kelly first. In fact, let's be honest, here -- he should have consulted Kelly first, if only as a courtesy. Kelly made Michael -- not the other way around.

Who's best to serve as a temporary co-host until Michael's replacement is chosen?

The obvious choice would be Kelly's husband, Mark Consuelos. Mark is perfect for the job. He's poised, telegenic, natural, funny and engaging. 

Plus, he knows the show inside-out and he's someone that Kelly can really trust. And, if they don't mind working together every day, they'd even make the perfect pair as permanent show co-hosts. But that will be up to them.

As for us, we're all in for Kelly.

And we're betting she'll come out of this strong and better than ever!

How To Enjoy 'A Privilege Denied To Many'

Vote Cox & Ellis For Delegates In PA 13th District

And important message for those voting in the upcoming Pennsylvania primary on Tuesday:
While the Dan Cirucci Blog has not yet officially endorsed a presidential candidate, we strongly urge our friends in Pennsylvania to vote for Republican Convention delegate candidates Tom Ellis and Gil Cox in Pennsylvania 13th congressional district in suburban Philadelphia.
We know both these men and they are fine candidates.
And, we have to give them both credit for clearly announcing their support of and commitment to a presidential candidate (in this case, Donald Trump).
As many of you know, a good number of the GOP delegate candidates in Pennsylvania are running "uncommitted." This is wrong. 
If you want to be a delegate to the convention, you owe it to the voters to say who your choice for president really is. 
Don't elect delegates who are hiding behind a smokescreen and/or find themselves beholden to party bosses and assorted elites.
Vote for Tom Ellis and Gil Cox in Pennsylvania's 13th district!

Is THIS The Solution To The 'Problem?'

Or will we have to be even more specific?

They've Nearly All Been A Bit Wacky, Yes?

When a friend told me that Donald Trump was not qualified to be president because he had a “personality disorder,” I couldn’t help but laugh out loud. Yeah, The Donald is a near-hopeless narcissist. And that probably barely scratches the surface. So why was I laughing? Because . . . 

Click here to read the rest of Dan Cirucci's column from today's Courier Post.

'Inclusive?' Think About What It REALLY Means!

Oh Yes, There Was Once A Time . . . . .

There was once a time, before the federal income tax.

US, France, Germany, Japan Lead Blog Visits!

Pageviews by Countries - Week of 4/17 Entry Pageviews United States 1303 France 1131 Germany 186 Japan 167 Bulgaria 46 Romania 39 Ukraine 38 Portugal 37 China 36 Canada 35

Thank you for more than 3,000 pageviews!

The Way Some People See The Campaign . . .

Dan Cirucci Blog - Week's Top Five Stories

For the week of 4/17

Entry	Pageviews
No, It Was Never Really About Your Health . . . Apr 17, 2016
Dan Cirucci Blog - Week's Five Biggest Stories Apr 16, 2016
Have You Been Part Of PIFA Yet? Apr 16, 2016
Kelly VS Michael: The Truth Behind The Feud Apr 22, 2016
Hmmm . . . Now, THIS Is Progress, Yes? Apr 20, 2016

Truly, A Monarch For All The World!

Tei-State Conservative Group Endorsements

The Independence Hall Foundation, the largest independent conservative grass roots organization with thousands of members in the tri-state region, is announcing, today, its endorsements in key 2016 Pennsylvania Republican statewide and congressional district primary races. Although the 20-member Foundation Board could not reach a consensus in the GOP presidential primary, the Board has voted unanimously (except in the 13th Congressional District) to endorse the following candidates: Pennsylvania Statewide Competitive Primary Races Attorney General Joe Peters The Foundation endorses Joe Peters because of his impressive career in law enforcement (his association with Kathleen Kane not withstanding) and his commitment to take on local PA municipalities that provide "sanctuary" to illegal immigrants in opposition to federal and state laws. The Foundation duly notes that Peter's opponent, State Senator John Rafferty, has significantly less experience in law enforcement; supports "dreamer" legislation; opposes the privatization of the Liquor Control Board and the enactment of Paycheck Protection due his strong union ties. Southeast PA Competitive Congressional Primary Races 7th District Pat Meehan The Foundation endorses Pat Meehan because of his consistent votes, over the years, to repeal ObamaCare; defund Planned Parenthood; lower taxes; decrease spending; expose corrupt practices of the Veterans Administration; hold the Obama Administration accountable on the Benghazi and Fast and Furious scandals; stop Obama's Executive Order on Immigration, and support our nation's defense. Meehan has also been a strong advocate of local law enforcement communities. During his tenure as Cheltenham Township Commissioner (Montgomery County) in the 1980's, Meehan's primary opponent, Stan Casacio, voted to increase the township's budget by 80% and raise property taxes by 42% to cover the deficit he helped create. 8th District Brian Fitzpatrick The Foundation endorses Brian Fitzpatrick over his two primary challengers due to his overwhelming conservative credentials--which include fighting political corruption and worldwide terrorism as an FBI Special Agent; his district-wide name recognition; and his ability to raise the funds necessary to defeat his Democrat primary opponent in the fall election. 16th District Chet Beiler The Foundation endorses Chet Beiler due to his successful career as an entrepreneur and his commitment to conservative principles. Beiler's opponent, State Senator Lloyd Smucker, supports "dreamer" legislation and opposes cracking down on "sanctuary" municipalities. 17th District Matt Connolly The Foundation endorses charismatic and articulate NASCAR race driver, Matt Connolly, because of his commitment to conservative principles and his second place finish in a three-way primary race in 2014--which earned him district-wide name recognition. In 2014, Connolly's opponent, Northampton County Councilman Glenn Geissinger, voted to increase county taxes by almost 10%. Pennsylvania Statewide Non-Competitive GOP Primary Races US Senator Pat Toomey PA Auditor General John Brown PA State Treasurer Otto Voit Pennsylvania Non-Competitive Congressional GOP Primary Races 1st District Deborah Williams 2nd Disrict James Jones 6th District Ryan Costello 11th District Lou Barletta 13th District Robert Sklaroff (write-in candidate) 15th District No endorsement Charlie Dent, the incumbent GOP Congressman, is a vocal supporter of the taxpayer funded group, Planned Parenthood, despite recent disclosures that the nation's leading abortion provider (PP) barbarically kills over 300,000 unborn children annually--then sells their body parts on the market to the highest bidder.

What About THIS Star-Studded Phoniness, Huh?

Life inside the contorted, morally ambiguous world of Looney Clooney!

2016 Drama League Award Nominees Announced

The New York Drama League has now announced its nominations for the year's best on Broadway and off Broadway. Here they are:

OUTSTANDING PRODUCTION OF A BROADWAY OR OFF-BROADWAY PLAY
10 Out Of 12, Eclipsed, The Father, Gloria, Hir, The Humans, King Charles III, Marjorie Prime, The Royale, Skeleton Crew

OUTSTANDING REVIVAL OF A BROADWAY OR OFF-BROADWAY PLAY
Awake and Sing!, Blackbird, Cloud Nine, The Crucible, The Gin Game, Long Day’s Journey into Night, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Noises Off, Sense and Sensibility, A View from the Bridge

OUTSTANDING PRODUCTION OF A BROADWAY OR OFF-BROADWAY MUSICAL
American Psycho, Bright Star, Dear Evan Hansen, Futurity, Hamilton, iOW@, On Your Feet!, School of Rock, Tuck Everlasting, Waitress

OUTSTANDING REVIVAL OF A BROADWAY OR OFF-BROADWAY MUSICAL
The Color Purple, Dames at Sea, Fiddler on the Roof, She Loves Me, Spring Awakening

NOMINEES FOR THE DISTINGUISHED PERFORMANCE AWARD
One winner is selected from this category. The recipient can only receive this award once during his or her career.
Nina Arianda, Fool for Love
Annaleigh Ashford, Sylvia
Laura Benanti, She Loves Me
Reed Birney, The Humans
Alex Brightman, School of Rock, The Musical
Danny Burstein, Fiddler on the Roof
Timothee Chalamet, Prodigal Son
Kelley Curran, The Dingdong
Carmen Cusack, Bright Star
Jeff Daniels, Blackbird
Khris Davis, The Royale
Daveed Diggs, Hamilton
Georgia Engel, John
Cynthia Erivo, The Color Purple
Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Fully Committed
Lynda Gravatt, Skeleton Crew
Michael C. Hall, Lazarus
Anne Hathaway, Grounded
Megan Hilty, Noises Off
Jackie Hoffman, Once Upon a Mattress
Jayne Houdyshell, The Humans
Jennifer Hudson, The Color Purple
Marin Ireland, Ironbound
Andrew Keenan-Bolger, Tuck Everlasting
Leslie Kritzer, The Robber Bridegroom
Jessica Lange, Long Day’s Journey into Night
Judith Light, Therese Raquin
Zachary Levi, She Loves Me
Lin-Manuel Miranda, Hamilton
Jessie Mueller, Waitress
Kristine Nielsen, Hir
Lupita Nyong’o, Eclipsed
Sophie Okonedo, The Crucible
Annette O’Toole, Southern Comfort
Tim Pigott-Smith, King Charles III
Ben Platt, Dear Evan Hansen
Phylicia Rashad, Head of Passes
Sam Rockwell, Fool for Love
Thomas Jay Ryan, 10 Out of 12
Michael Shannon, Long Day’s Journey into Night
Jennifer Simard, Disaster!
Lois Smith, Marjorie Prime and John
Mark Strong, A View from the Bridge
Cicely Tyson, The Gin Game
Michael Urie, Shows for Days
Ana Villafane, On Your Feet!
Benjamin Walker, American Psycho
Nicola Walker, A View from the Bridge
Ben Whishaw, The Crucible
Michelle Williams, Blackbird

The Drama League also wishes to acknowledge the previous recipients of the Distinguished Performance Award who appeared in New York productions this season:
James Earl Jones, The Gin Game
Patti LuPone, Shows For Days
Frank Langella, The Father
Mary-Louise Parker, Heisenberg
Mark Rylance, Nice Fish
Sam Waterston, The Tempest

Distinguished Achievement in Musical Theatre
Sheldon Harnick

Unique Contribution to the Theatre
Deaf West Theatre

Founders Award for Excellence in Directing
Ivo van Hove

Gov Breaks Through Bureaucracy, Rescues Teen!

From our friends at Save Jersey:

By The Staff | The Save Jersey Blog

A “glitch” was preventing Isaac Pilato and his mom, Stacey, from obtaining a new driver’s permit after the young man’s original was destroying in the washing machine.

For how long? Four months!

Multiple MVC visits at multiple locations didn’t solve the problem.

So this week, after learning about the incident, Governor Chris Christie personally accompanied Stacey and Isaac to the South Plainfield MVC office to square things away (h/t NJ 101.5):

Ever get the run-around at the Motor Vehicle Commission (the former DMV)? Stacey Pilato called Gov. Chris Christie via New Jersey 101.5's Ask the Governor and told him she'd been trying for four months to get her son's permit replaced -- and gotten redirected every time.

Don't Be Deceived By This Twisted Logic!

Kelly VS Michael: The Truth Behind The Feud

So, Kelly has finally emerged.
And, while she's smiling, we hear she's livid over Michael's betrayal and his sudden move to GMA full time.
And it appears as if Kelly may have cancelled her planned trip to a tropical island to celebrate her 20th wedding anniversary -- which only adds fuel to the fire and makes us think she's really angry. In any event, Kelly won't be back on Live! till at least next Tuesday.
Hey, here's how we feel: Michael totally botched it. He done her wrong, honey! Big Time!
He should have explained it all to Kelly first. In fact, let's be honest, here -- he should have consulted Kelly first, if only as a courtesy. Kelly made Michael -- not the other way around.
Michael is where he is today because of Kelly and Kelly's show, Live!
But Kelly Ripa will survive (she'll even thrive) because she's more talented, more durable and a way, way bigger star than Michael is or will ever be. Plus, she a Joizee gal!
If Sinatra were still around, he'd brand Michael a rat fink and that would be only the beginning of Michael's problems. And if ABC thinks Michael will save GMA, well -- we've got a bridge downtown that we'd like to sell them.
PS: We love you Kelly and we're with you all the way! BTW: We now hear that Kelly will definitely be back next week. Apparently, she's sent a message announcing that to the staff of the show, also thanking them for their love and support. She reportedly said she needed "time to deal with" everything that happened. Still, it's very hard to imagine Kelly and Michael laughing and sharing the same stage again. But if you're paid zillions of dollars to do exactly that, well . . . .

Shocking! What The Hell's Happening To Food?

A Grandson's Poignant Tribute To His Grandad

Ed Snider, the founder of the Philadelphia Flyers, was honored during a celebration of his life Thursday at the Wells Fargo Center.
Here, Ed Snider's grandson, Jacob sings 'What a Wonderful World'.

A Blessed And Happy Passover To All!

Greetings and best wished to all our friends who celebrate Passover.

One of the most important Jewish holidays, the Passover celebration during eight days of Pesach commemorates the Jews' liberation from slavery.

This festival is also known as ‘Chag he-Aviv’, ‘Chag ha-Matzoth’ and ‘Z’man Cherutenu’.

Passover begins at sundown today.

Happy Passover to all!

Outer Critics Circle Nominations - Best Of Broadway, 2016!

The New York Outer Critics Circle has announced nominations for the 2015-16 Broadway season.
The Outer Critics Circle is the organization of writers covering New York theatre for out-of-town newspapers, national publications and other media beyond Broadway representing more than 90 newspapers, magazines, radio and television stations, websites and theatre publications in America and abroad. The Outer Critics Circle nominations are the first major Broadway/Off-Broadway award nominations of the New York theatre season.

Here is the full list of nominees:

OUTSTANDING NEW BROADWAY PLAY
Eclipsed
The Father
The Humans
King Charles III
Thérèse Raquin

OUTSTANDING NEW BROADWAY MUSICAL
American Psycho the Musical
Bright Star
On Your Feet!
Tuck Everlasting the Musical
Waitress

OUTSTANDING NEW OFF-BROADWAY PLAY
The Christians
Familiar
Gloria
Hold On to Me Darling
The Legend of Georgia McBride

OUTSTANDING NEW OFF-BROADWAY MUSICAL
Cagney
Daddy Long Legs
Dear Evan Hansen
Lazarus
Southern Comfort

OUTSTANDING BOOK OF A MUSICAL
(Broadway or Off-Broadway)
Bright Star
Daddy Long Legs
Dear Evan Hansen
Lazarus
On Your Feet!

OUTSTANDING NEW SCORE
(Broadway or Off-Broadway)
American Psycho the Musical
Bright Star
Daddy Long Legs
Dear Evan Hansen
Waitress

OUTSTANDING REVIVAL OF A PLAY
(Broadway or Off-Broadway)
Blackbird
The Crucible
Fool for Love
Long Day’s Journey Into Night
A View From the Bridge

OUTSTANDING REVIVAL OF A MUSICAL
(Broadway or Off-Broadway)
The Color Purple the Musical
Dames at Sea
Fiddler on the Roof
She Loves Me
Spring Awakening

OUTSTANDING DIRECTOR OF A PLAY
Evan Cabnet Gloria
Mike Donahue The Legend of Georgia McBride
Rupert Goold King Charles III
Joe Mantello The Humans
Ivo van Hove A View From the Bridge

OUTSTANDING DIRECTOR OF A MUSICAL
Michael Arden Spring Awakening
Walter Bobbie Bright Star
Scott Ellis She Loves Me
Rupert Goold American Psycho the Musical
Michael Greif Dear Evan Hansen

OUTSTANDING CHOREOGRAPHER
Joshua Bergasse Cagney
Spencer Liff Spring Awakening
Josh Rhodes Bright Star
Randy Skinner Dames at Sea
Sergio Trujillo On Your Feet!

OUTSTANDING SET DESIGN
(Play or Musical)
Beowulf Boritt Thérèse Raquin
David Korins Misery
Mimi Lien John
David Rockwell She Loves Me
Walt Spangler Tuck Everlasting the Musical

OUTSTANDING COSTUME DESIGN
(Play or Musical)
ESosa On Your Feet!
Jane Greenwood Bright Star
Katrina Lindsay American Psycho the Musical
Jeff Mahshie She Loves Me
Tom Scutt King Charles III

OUTSTANDING LIGHTING DESIGN
(Play or Musical)
Donald Holder She Loves Me
Natasha Katz Long Day’s Journey Into Night
Kenneth Posner On Your Feet!
Ben Stanton Spring Awakening
Justin Townsend American Psycho the Musical

OUTSTANDING PROJECTION DESIGN
(Play or Musical)
Lucy MacKinnon Spring Awakening
Peter Nigrini Grounded
Peter Nigrini Dear Evan Hansen
Finn Ross American Psycho the Musical
Tal Yarden Lazarus

OUTSTANDING ACTOR IN A PLAY
Reed Birney The Humans
Gabriel Byrne Long Day’s Journey Into Night
Frank Langella The Father
Mark Strong A View From the Bridge
Ben Whishaw The Crucible

OUTSTANDING ACTRESS IN A PLAY
Jayne Houdyshell The Humans
Jessica Lange Long Day’s Journey Into Night
Lupita Nyong’o Eclipsed
Nicola Walker A View From the Bridge
Michelle Williams Blackbird

OUTSTANDING ACTOR IN A MUSICAL
Alex Brightman School of Rock the Musical
Danny Burstein Fiddler on the Roof
Robert Creighton Cagney
Ben Platt Dear Evan Hansen
Benjamin Walker American Psycho the Musical

OUTSTANDING ACTRESS IN A MUSICAL
Laura Benanti She Loves Me
Carmen Cusack Bright Star
Cynthia Erivo The Color Purple the Musical
Jessie Mueller Waitress
Ana Villafañe On Your Feet!

OUTSTANDING FEATURED ACTOR IN A PLAY
Sanjit De Silva Dry Powder
Matt McGrath The Legend of Georgia McBride
Jim Norton The Crucible
Robert Sella Sylvia
Michael Shannon Long Day’s Journey Into Night

OUTSTANDING FEATURED ACTRESS IN A PLAY
Pascale Armand Eclipsed
Zainab Jah Eclipsed
Judith Light Thérèse Raquin
Saycon Sengbloh Eclipsed
Myra Lucretia Taylor Familiar 

OUTSTANDING FEATURED ACTOR IN A MUSICAL
Nicholas Barasch She Loves Me
Roger Bart Disaster!
Michael Esper Lazarus
Christopher Fitzgerald Waitress
Terrence Mann Tuck Everlasting the Musical

OUTSTANDING FEATURED ACTRESS IN A MUSICAL
Danielle Brooks The Color Purple the Musical
Andrea Burns On Your Feet!
Sophia Anne Caruso Lazarus
Jane Krakowski She Loves Me 
Heléne Yorke American Psycho the Musical

OUTSTANDING SOLO PERFORMANCE
Mike Birbiglia Thank God For Jokes
Kathleen Chalfant Rose
Anne Hathaway Grounded 
James Lecesne The Absolute Brightness of Leonard Pelkey
Daphne Rubin-Vega Empanada Loca

JOHN GASSNER AWARD
(Presented for an American play, preferably by a new playwright)
Lindsey Ferrentino Ugly Lies the Bone
Lauren Gunderson I and You
Martyna Majok Ironbound
Marco Ramirez The Royale
Anna Ziegler Boy

SPECIAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
James Houghton Signature Theatre Company

These shows had three or more nominations: American Psycho the Musical – 8, She Loves Me – 8, Bright Star – 7, On Your Feet – 7, Dear Evan Hansen – 6, Eclipsed – 5, Lazarus – 5, Long Day’s Journey Into Night – 5, Spring Awakening – 5, A View From the Bridge – 4, The Humans – 4, Waitress – 4, Cagney – 3, Daddy Long Legs – 3, King Charles III – 3, The Color Purple the Musical – 3, The Crucible – 3, The Legend of Georgia McBride – 3, Thérèse Raquin – 3, Tuck Everlasting the Musical – 3.

The winners will be announced May 9, and the annual Gala Awards Dinner will be held 4 PM May 26 at Sardi's Restaurant.