Philly Pops Announces New Leadership, Initiatives

 

Dr. Rollo Dilworth, Chairman

Karen Corbin, President and CEO

The Philly POPS is pleased to announce the election of Dr. Rollo Dilworth as the new Chair of the Board of Directors, replacing POPS Board Chair Joseph Del Raso who will remain on the Board. The Board also approved the appointment of Karen Corbin as President and CEO of the POPS. Corbin replaces POPS President Frank Giordano, who also will remain on the Board to aid the transition.

The selection of Dilworth, Vice Dean of the Boyer School of Music and Dance at Temple University, as Board Chair reflects our intention to shift focus in favor of our education and community engagement initiatives while simultaneously reworking our subscription series performances previously held at the Kimmel Center, where we had been a founding resident company until the suspension of our resident company status in January. Coupled with the change in leadership, the Board indicated that it is seeking to meet with the leadership of The Philadelphia Orchestra and Kimmel Center, Inc. (POKC) – the Kimmel’s parent company – to discuss resolving their differences and finding a mutually acceptable path forward.

The changes were unanimously approved by the POPS Board as part of the Board’s commitment to developing a sustainable long-term financial model for the POPS.

"Our intention is to reconnect with our audiences while also pivoting to expand our educational programming and our unique community engagement agenda. As part of this strategy, we look to resolve our differences with the Kimmel and work together for the benefit of the patrons we both serve."

– Karen Corbin, President and CEO

"I am honored to serve as Board Chair for the Philly POPS, which is such an important part of Philadelphia’s performing arts community. We believe that the POPS has a bright future that allows us ample opportunity to be innovative in presenting the music that our audiences have loved for so many years and finding new connections with our community of patrons and students."

– Dr. Rollo Dilworth, Chairman

VIDEO: An Inspiring Story Everyone Can Relate To!

Will Cherry Hill Dem Mayoral Race Be Contested?

Cherry Hill Democrats may be headed for a showdown as Cherry Hill's longtime Council President, Democrat Dave Fleisher has announced that he's running for mayor -- the seat currently held by incumbent Mayor Susan Shinn Angulo, also a Democrat.

Fleisher is already endorsed by his fellow council members and several former Cherry Hill mayors as well as other notable area Democrats. Will Shinn Angulo stand for re-election and take on the gauntlet that Fleisher has already assembled, setting up a primary fight this June? No official word yet but several months ago Shinn Angulo told me she'd be running for a second term.

“I am excited about the opportunity to lead as Cherry Hill Mayor," Fleisher said in announcing his candidacy "and I am committed to ensuring the Township is the best place to live, work, play and raise a family." Fleisher adds: “I will use my business experience to run the Township in a manner that is fiscally responsible and invests in our neighborhoods so that people can safely enjoy all Cherry Hill has to offer.”

 

As Council President, Fleisher has a proven track record on holding the line on taxes, leading the Township Council in approving over a dozen balanced budgets with zero municipal tax increases. 

 

Fleisher has also successfully advocated for the preservation of open space throughout the Township and was a driving force in the 2022 passage of a comprehensive ordinance that protects Cherry Hill’s prized trees from being lost to development. 

 

He is the co-founder of the Cherry Hill Human Relations Advisory Committee and was instrumental in the building of the Cherry Hill Library.

 

“I have known and worked with Dave Fleisher for a long time and having been mayor myself, I can tell you he is hands down the best person for the job,” said former Cherry Hill Mayor Chuck Cahn. “Dave is an independent thinker and natural leader with a tremendous business sense who is dedicated to doing what is right for the taxpayers of Cherry Hill.”

 

In addition to Cahn, former mayors Susan Bass Levin, Bernie Platt and Art Simons along with Cherry Hill Councilmembers Jennifer Apell, Brian Bauerle, Bill Carter, Sangeeta Doshi, Michele Golkow, Carole Roskoph and Camden County Commissioner Melinda Kane have also announced their support for Fleisher.

 

“I have had the privilege of serving on Council with Dave Fleisher for several years now and have seen firsthand how he rolls up his sleeves and gets to work,” said Doshi. “He brings a thoughtful and deliberative approach to decision-making and an amazing ability to build consensus. He has led Council with skill and a laser-like focus on what’s best for taxpayers and our neighborhoods, and I look forward to working with him as mayor.”

 

Incumbent Councilmembers Golkow, Bauerle and Apell will join Fleisher on the Democratic ticket.

 

Born and raised in Cherry Hill, Fleisher attended Cherry Hill public schools and graduated from Cherry Hill High School East. He went on to attend Ithaca College where he earned his bachelor’s degree in finance. Today, he is president and managing partner with a successful financial planning firm in the Delaware Valley.

 

Together with his wife, Jen, Fleisher was an active volunteer for the Stockton Elementary and Rosa Middle School PTAs. He also previously served as a member of the State of NJ Government Records Council, which ensures government transparency statewide.

 

Fleisher is a member of the Board of Trustees for Ithaca College and is chair of the college’s Finance and Investment Committee. He is also on the board of Foundations, Inc., a national nonprofit dedicated to improving the quality of education for children 

 

Fleisher is a member of Kol Ami synagogue and the Katz JCC Community Center.  He and Jen are the proud parents of three children — all of whom also attended Cherry Hill public schools — and their family dog, Rosie.

 

For more information or to support Dave Fleisher for Cherry Hill Mayor, visit daveforcherryhill.com

Who The Hell's In Charge Here, Anyway?

What's going on here? pic.twitter.com/o1uwl0FQfx

— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) February 27, 2023

His Words Are Truer Now Than Ever . . .

 

Well, Here It Is -- Interpret As You Wish . . .

Jeb Bush endorses Ron Desantis for president. pic.twitter.com/qBF0YGHcG4

— Ron Filipkowski 🇺🇦 (@RonFilipkowski) February 26, 2023

Are Things REALLY This Bad In Joizee?

 

Students' Mosaic Will Grace Turnpike Service Plaza!

Students from Archbishop John Carroll High School in Radnor (Delaware County) will unveil the mosaic installation they created for the Valley Forge Service Plaza on the Pennsylvania Turnpike as a result of their work with the Art Sparks Program. 

The school was invited by the Philadelphia Arts in Education Partnership (PAEP) to participate in this initiative. The Art Sparks Program is created and funded by the PA Council on the Arts and the PA Turnpike Commission.

Friday, March 3, 2023

10:00 a.m.

Valley Forge Service Plaza on the Pennsylvania Turnpike

1495 Valley Forge Road (Milepost 324.5 Eastbound)

Wayne, PA 19082

In addition to the mosaic unveiling, attendees will enjoy selections from the Archbishop Carroll music ensemble and learn more about the innovative partnership between the PA Turnpike Commission and the PA Council on the Arts. The Art Sparks Program invites schools to design artwork for turnpike service plazas across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. PAEP, regional PA Council on the Arts partner for southeastern PA, manages and oversees this collaboration.

In September 2022, members of Archbishop Carroll’s Fine Arts Department including Ms. Loraine Carpenter, the Fine Arts Department Chair and Mr. Timothy Magenta started to work with students on this project. Ms. Jessica Liddell, a PA Council on the Arts teaching artist guided the students as they worked on the mosaic. 

In December 2022, representatives from the PA Turnpike Commission, along with the PA Council on the Arts and the Art Sparks Committee visited Archbishop John Carroll High School to view the students work and also participated in the artmaking process. 

Sister Lauretta Linsalata, I.H.M., from Archbishop Ryan High School is on the board of PAEP and served as the school liaison for this project. 

Background Information about Archbishop John Carroll High School 

Archbishop John Carroll High School is committed to excellence in the areas of spiritual, academic, and social development. By guiding its students in the development of their goals within the context of a meaningful relationship with God, others, and self, Archbishop Carroll challenges them to responsible stewardship in the world. With Christ as its model, the school accomplishes this challenge through the dedication of a professional staff who educate their students by implementing innovative and competitive methodologies to prepare the twenty-first century learner for the ever-changing world.

Background Information on the Art Sparks Program 

In 2017, the PA Council on the Arts (PCA) and the PA Turnpike Commission began an arts program, Art Sparks, to beautify the Turnpike Service Plazas across Pennsylvania. The intent and focus of the program is three-fold: 1) to provide an opportunity for the turnpike commission to form stronger community relations with the families living and working in the service plaza catchment areas, 2) to place the project in a school located within each service area, 3) to engage the regional PCA Partner to lead the project along with a PCA-approved teaching art who together, work with the school art teacher(s) and his/her students to design and execute a visual art installation that will then be mounted in the Turnpike service plaza. The project is fully funded through the Regional PCA Arts in Education Partner with funds from the PCA and Turnpike Commission.

Best Definition We've Heard So Far . . .

 

Whata Bum! 40% Of His Presidency Off-The-Job!

Biden retreats to Delaware for yet another long weekend vacation.

He has spent 303 days — 40% of his presidency — on vacation. pic.twitter.com/krm5gGpKfK

— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) February 25, 2023

Is It Barney Or Petey? We're Not Quite Sure!

 

He Has No Idea Who, What, When . . . "The Mayor?"

"So do you plan to travel [to East Palestine] and have you talked to the mayor?"

BIDEN: "I can't recall...I've talked to everyone there is to talk to" pic.twitter.com/kvVbtlmIKo

— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) February 24, 2023

Hmmm . . .We'll Just Leave These Here For Now . . .

Wanna Take On this Role? Here 'Ya Go . . . It's Yours!

 

YOU Can Be Part Of A Ukrainian Welcome Circle!

Most Reverend Nelson J. Pérez, Archbishop of Philadelphia, has commissioned Catholic Social Services (CSS) to form Welcome Circles to assist Ukrainian refugees seeking resettlement in the Greater Philadelphia Area.

An information session will be held via ZOOM for those interested in forming Welcome Circles.

Wednesday, March 1, 2023

6:00 p.m.

ZOOM

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81454499976

Welcome Circles consist of groups of five or more adults who agree to support Ukrainian refugees attempting to rebuild their lives in the five-county Archdiocese of Philadelphia and feel at home in their new communities.

Currently, CSS is providing supportive services to many Ukrainians, in addition to refugees from Afghanistan, Haiti, Venezuela, and other countries where violence and poverty are prevalent. Some of the services being provided to these individuals include housing; assistance with benefits; employment; cultural orientation; and mental health resources. 

# # #

Editor’s Note: Catholic Social Services (CSS) of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia offers community-based and residential programs and services to support men, women and children in need as an expression of the charitable works of our local Church throughout the Greater Philadelphia area. To learn more about CSS programs that serve a wide variety of human needs, please visit https://cssphiladelphia.org/

For more information on Welcome Circles, contact Beth Wood at 267-351-6035 or email bwood@chs-adphila.org 

Among The Dems, He's Clearly The Best Choice!

 

Want To Ask Pete A Question? Good Luck With That!

I asked Sec. Buttigieg why it took him almost 3 weeks to come and speak to residents of East Palestine.

His press Secretary then told me I was aggressive for trying to ask questions on camera: pic.twitter.com/bOB52DIq0O

— Savanah Hernandez (@sav_says_) February 23, 2023

I’m not approved press and I never will be and I refuse to ask pre-approved questions to the leaders we need to be holding accountable.

My message to the incredible residents of East Palestine and Americans nationwide:

pic.twitter.com/8ipI7OHdeM

— Savanah Hernandez (@sav_says_) February 24, 2023

Help The Environment? Here's How To Do It!

 

It's Clear: She's In Way Over Her Head!

Karine Jean-Pierre: "President Obama announced that, pardon me, President Biden. Woah! ... That is news!" pic.twitter.com/oPBAwB9B8Z

— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) February 23, 2023

Ukrainian Catholic Churches Mark One Year Of War

Today, faithful throughout Metropolitan Archeparchy of Philadelphia will mark the one-year anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine by fasting, praying, and performing works of mercy. 

The Hierarchs of the Philadelphia Metropolitan ecourage all people of goodwill to show solidarity for the people of Ukraine and Ukrainians in the United States by participating in memorial services that will be held on Friday, February 24^th and Sunday, February 26^th. 

Friday, February 24, 2023

Faithful from the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church (Elkins Park) will gather for Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts and Memorial Service.

6:00 p.m.
 Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church
 1206 Valley Road
  Melrose Park, PA 19027
 
 

A Candlelight Vigil will be held at the Ukrainian Educational and Cultural Center (Montgomery County).

6:00 p.m.
 Ukrainian Educational and Cultural Center
 700 N Cedar Road
 Jenkintown, PA 19046

Sunday, February 26, 2023

Faithful will gather at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, the spiritual home to Ukrainian Catholics in Philadelphia for Liturgy and prayer.

10:30 a.m.
 Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception.
 830 North Franklin Street
 Philadelphia PA 19123

We'll Just Leave These Here For Now . . .

 

Videocast: Rob And His 10,000 New Friends!

Rob Lawless is a determined guy. He set out to make 10,000 new friends, live and in person. Impossible dream? Not for this guy. He's already met more than 5,000 and chronicled each and every one of those meetings. Why did he decide to do this in the first place? What obstacles did he face and/or overcome? What were some of his most interesting encounters along the way? Find out all that and more during this revealing, inspiring conversation with Dan Cirucci, one of "Rob's 10,000."

Can Catholics Eat Meat On Lenten Friday, March 17?

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia announces that Most Reverend Nelson J. Pérez, in accord with the Code of Canon Law (canon 87), has granted a dispensation to all Roman Catholics in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia from the obligation to abstain from meat on the Memorial of Saint Patrick – Friday, March 17^th, 2023.

The Catholic Bishops of the United States prescribe as part of a minimal penitential obligation that all persons who are fourteen years of age and older are bound to abstain from eating meat on the Fridays of Lent. 

In certain circumstances, such as the coincidence of Saint Patrick’s Day and a Friday of Lent, the Diocesan Bishop may grant a dispensation from this obligation. However, if a Catholic makes the choice not to abstain from meat, then some other penance of choice is to be observed in honor of the passion and death of our Lord on the cross.

Saint Patrick’s Day,  recalls the memory of this missionary Apostle to Ireland; his preaching of the Faith; and his encouragement to live authentic Christian lives. Faithful throughout the Archdiocese may observe March 17, 2023 by choosing a penitential act other than abstaining from meat.

OMG! Today, Biden falls On Steps AGAIN!

If you’re not disturbed by all of this? Check your partisanship. This is a dangerous problem. pic.twitter.com/R6V4VayWOB

— Matt Rooney (@MattRooneyNJ) February 22, 2023

H/T; Matt Rooney

Why They're All On The Insufferable WOKE Train . . .

You don't have to go very far to run into signs of virtue signaling these days. 

Do you know what virtue signaling is? 

It's individuals, corporation and institution beating their breasts to show how WOKE they are -- to go out of their way to relentlessly tell the world they're inclusive. And yes, they use buzz words like diversity, equity, inclusion, sensitivity, welcoming, affirming, multicultural, marginalized and the ubiquitous LGBTQ+. 

This stuff isn't just limited to academia or similar institutions. It's now everywhere and has even become a Really Big Deal for corporations who want to show how aware and responsive they are to communities that are presumably in oh-so-desperate need of love. 

Sure, a lot of this is about the changing demographics of our country. 

But, let's get real here. This is really all about money, folks. 

Oh yeah, it's patronizing, that's for sure. But that's an apt word because it's all about attracting more patrons -- more students to pay big tuition bucks at colleges and universities; bigger audiences for sport and entertainment events; more customers in stores ranging all the way from Lululemon to Aldi; more patients in doctor's offices and hospitals; more, more, more -- which means more money! 

The corporate bean counters have figured this out. With a massive full throttle approach, they see no downside (no effective societal resistance) so, it's full speed ahead. And of course, even Joe Biden's White House is lit in the woke colors of the gay rainbow flag. After all, there are campaign contributions and votes to be had, too. Yes, it's all to proclaim: "Ain't we special!" Bottom line -- let's call it what it is: money grubbing virtue signaling!

And one more thing. It seems to us that if you really are tolerant and accepting (or however you want to characterize it) then you don't need to put up signs proclaiming it and boasting about how wonderful you are -- competing with others who are similarly boastful. No, your actions should speak for you!

For we dare not class ourselves or compare ourselves with those who commend themselves. But they, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise. 2 Corinthians 10:12

 

ABORTION: The Battle Is Far From Over . . .

from catholicvote.com: WALGREENS BACKS DOWN ON ABORTION PILL  Walgreens this week stated that it will not sell Mifepristone in Kansas after the state’s attorney general wrote a letter to the retail pharmacy giant warning that sending the abortion pills to Kansas would violate state and federal laws. The statement is the first example of a pharmacy balking in the face of legal confrontations since the Biden administration first announced that retail pharmacy companies could be certified to dispense abortion pills.  READ

UTAH ADVANCES GROUNDBREAKING PRO-LIFE BILL  Last Friday the Utah House of Representatives in a party-line vote passed some of the strongest pro-life legislation advanced since the reversal of Roe vs. Wade. If passed by the state’s Senate and signed into law, the measure effectively would shut down abortion clinics that only offer abortion. The bill would also make it a criminal offense for out-of-state actors to prescribe abortion drugs to Utahns. Republican Gov. Spencer Cox has signaled his support for the bill.  READ

THIS Is The Day For George Washington!

According to calendars used since the mid 18th century, today is George Washington's birthday. Yes, Washington was born on February 22, 1732 -- not on the meaningless "Presidents Day." And today remains the appropriate day for observances of Washington’s birth.

Public celebrations for George Washington's birthday actually predate his term as president, and were originally intended to honor his service in the War for Independence. By the early 19th century, Washington's Birthday had taken hold in the American experience as a full-fledged national holiday. Its traditions included Birthnight Balls in various parts of the country, speeches and receptions and revelry in taverns throughout the land.

The story of Washington’s life was widely taught and legends about Washington began to grow. 

At a dinner honoring the centennial of Washington’s birth in 1832 Daniel Webster said that Washington’s legacy was nothing less than “the edifice of constitutional American liberty.”
It’s time to resurrect that legacy, acknowledge that edifice and restore George Washington’s rightful place in our national life.

George Washington -- still considered the father of our country and the greatest president ever!

On His Birthday, Washington's Prayer For America

 Today really IS George Washington's birthday.

And here is Washington's Prayer for America:

Almighty GOD; we make our earnest prayer that Thou wilt keep the United States in Thy holy protection, that thou wilt incline the hearts of the citizens to cultivate a spirit of subordination and obedience to government; and entertain a brotherly affection and love for one another and for their fellow citizens of the United States of America at large. And finally that Thou wilt most graciously be pleased to dispose us all to do justice, to love mercy and to demean ourselves with that charity, humility and pacific temper of mind which were the characteristics of The Divine Author of our blessed religion, and without whose example in these things we can never hope to be a happy nation. Grant our supplication, we beseech thee, through Jesus Christ Our Lord. Amen

- George Washington -

April 30th, 1789

Testa Introduces NJ Crime Fighting Bills

New Jersey State Senator Michael Testa introduced several criminal justice reform bills this week aimed directly at reducing crime, imposing harsher penalties for lawbreaking, supporting our police, and protecting all New Jerseyans.

Sen. Michael Testa introduced several criminal justice reform bills this week aimed directly at reducing crime, imposing harsher penalties for lawbreaking, supporting our police, and protecting all New Jerseyans. (©iStock)

“We all realize the situation is critical and something must be done to restore law and order to New Jersey’s streets and neighborhoods,” said Testa (R-1). “The lawlessness I have seen play out in South Jersey and elsewhere is shocking, and it is the direct result of the Murphy Administration’s mind-boggling agenda of appeasement. In word and in action, the Governor has been dismissive of the concerns of the bipartisan majority of residents who follow the rules, respect the police, and demand their elected officials to help keep them safe. This criminal justice reform package will help rectify the situation Governor Murphy has put us in.”

The bills the Senator introduced include:

• S-3616 – Establishes rebuttable presumption that person charged with motor vehicle theft be detained prior to trial; imposes mandatory sentencing for thefts involving motor vehicle.
• S-3620 – Establishes deadlines for publishing crime data, issuance of annual report by Attorney General.
• S-3622 – Allows municipality to establish alcohol-free and cannabis-free areas and to impose civil penalties for violations.
• S-3623 – Removes five-year prohibition on municipalities promulgating ordinances or regulations related to cannabis industry.
• SR-113 – Urges Governor and Attorney General to provide assistance to municipalities in response to unpermitted mass gatherings and “pop-up parties” in New Jersey.
• S-3398 – Permits designation of special event zones for traffic regulation purposes during certain large events. The impetus for this bill arose from the unsanctioned H2Oi car rally in Wildwood last September which killed 2 people and injured several others.

“These are just a few of the dozens of anti-crime bills sponsored by Republicans ready for legislative action, but the Democrat majority has been slow to post these bills for votes,” added Testa. “This is not a partisan issue, it’s one that touches every one of us in our communities one way or another. Hopefully, these bills—and others—will garner support from both sides of the aisle so that we can bring law and order back to our streets.”

Testa is already a sponsor of several key Republican criminal justice reform bills:

• S-581 – Prohibits release of illegal immigrants from correctional facilities.
• S-642 – Removes criminal liability for law enforcement officers who have investigative encounter with underage person for possession of alcohol or cannabis unless civil rights are violated.
• S-1206 – Enhances penalties for certain crimes committed during riots and creates new crimes of mob intimidation and cyber-intimidation by publication.
• S-3170 – Increases penalties for assault and harassment against sports officials and participants.
• SCR-20 – Amends Constitution to dedicate money credited to the “9-1-1 System and Emergency Response Trust Fund Account” to maintain 9-1-1 system and emergency response.

“From opening the doors and letting the convicted criminals out, to tying the hands of the police and prohibiting them from detaining minors with marijuana or alcohol, Trenton has emboldened the bad-actors and handcuffed the good guys. Is it any wonder that bad behavior has escalated?” Testa said.

“New Jersey residents are tired of the foot-dragging and the laissez-faire attitude toward criminals. Safe streets are not a partisan luxury. They are something all Garden State families desire and deserve.”

Testa also co-sponsors the following crime-fighting measures including: S-55, upgrades burglary of a residence to a crime of the second degree and requires a mandatory period of parole ineligibility if residence was occupied at time of offense; S-705, creates first degree crime of home invasion, makes crime subject to No Early Release Act; S-1782, upgrades burglary of a residence as a crime of the second degree; S-2663, increases degree of crime for unlawful taking of motor vehicle; S-2664, creates second degree crime for operation of stolen vehicle in manner that creates risk of injury to person or property; S-2675, requires proof of ownership prior to resale of catalytic converter and upgrades theft of catalytic converter to one degree higher than underlying offense; and S-3048, establishes crime of gang shoplifting.

 

Sometimes It Really Seems Like This!

 

Philly Archbishop 'Shocked, Deeply Saddened'

STATEMENT OF MOST REVEREND NELSON J. PÉREZ REGARDING THE DEATH OF MOST REVEREND DAVID O’CONNELL,

 AUXILIARY BISHOP OF LOS ANGELES

I was shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the murder of Auxiliary Bishop David O’Connell of Los Angeles this weekend.

On behalf of the entire Church in Philadelphia, I extend prayerful condolences to Bishop O’Connell’s family and many friends as well as Archbishop José Gomez and the priests, religious, and lay faithful of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. 

Bishop O’Connell was beloved by those he served as a parish priest and bishop for many decades and was best known for his work to promote peace and transform lives in South Los Angeles. I pray that his example of selfless dedication to those in needs will inspire others to share the love of Christ generously in the world around them.  

May God grant Bishop O’Connell the gift of eternal life and console all those who loved, admired, and respected him.

Chatting With NJ's Paul Kanitra: A Man In The Vanguard!

Dan chats with Point Pleasant Beach (NJ) Mayor Paul Kanitra about those dead whales washing up on the mid Atlantic shore line, the danger of giant windmills off the Jersey coast, what it's like to be a small town mayor in a shore town that bulges with visitors each summer and the future of the Republican Party and rising young(er) Republicans in blue, blue New Jersey. 

Kanitra has made national and even international news for his initiatives and responsiveness to the problems municipal officials face today. Watch this fascinating interview with a rare breed of public servant -- heartfelt, passionate, independent-minded and irrepressibly authentic. 

Stumbling, Mumbling, Bungling -- As Usual!

BIDEN IN UKRAINE: "We built a coalition of nations from the Atlantic to the Pacific. NATO. To the, in the Atlantic. Japan in the Pacific. I mean, across the — across the world" pic.twitter.com/zBozgEHowt

— VINnews (@VINNews) February 20, 2023

And Now, On The Eve Of The Lenten Season . . .

Philadelphia Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez will be the principal celebrant and homilist at the 12:05 p.m. Ash Wednesday Mass at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul on Wednesday, February 22, 2023.

Blessed Ashes will be distributed to the faithful in over 200 parishes across the five-county Archdiocese throughout the day. This tangible symbol reminds them to repent and believe in the Gospel as the Lenten Season begins. Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent for Christians throughout the world. Lent is a 40-day period of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving from Ash Wednesday through Holy Thursday in preparation for the celebration of the Sacred Paschal Triduum.

Wednesday, February 22, 2023

12:05 p.m.

Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul

18th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway

Philadelphia, PA 19103

Additional Masses will be celebrated at 7:15 a.m. (Chapel) and 5:15 p.m. (Basilica). In addition to the celebration of Mass with the distribution of Blessed Ashes, there will be celebrations of the Word of God and the distribution of Blessed Ashes in the medical facilities within the parish boundaries on Ash Wednesday.

The Bishops of the United States prescribe, as a minimal obligation, that all persons who are fourteen years of age and older are bound to abstain from eating meat on Ash Wednesday, on all the Fridays of Lent and Good Friday. Further, all persons eighteen years of age and older, up to and including their fifty-ninth birthday, are bound to fast by limiting themselves to a single full meal on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, while the other two meals on those days are to be light. Keeping a voluntary fast throughout Lent is encouraged on the part of all.

The Cathedral Parish will offer the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation on weekdays at 11:30 a.m. (Basilica), Saturdays at 4:15 p.m. (Basilica) and Sundays at 9:00 a.m. (Basilica), 12:00 Noon in Spanish (Chapel) and 5:30 p.m. (Basilica). Likewise, individual parishes throughout the Archdiocese may have alternative dates and times for this Sacrament in addition to already scheduled times. 

Presidents Day? It's A Buncha Bulls - - t!

 And once again we are left to consider the absurdity of this day:
Quick: Why is today a holiday?

What do we observe on this day?
Why is the holiday February 20th this year when it was some other date last year?
Something to do with George Washington, you say? Or Abraham Lincoln? Or is it Presidents Day?
Do you know the traditionally accepted date of Washington’s birth? And what really is the relationship, if any, between Washington’s birthday and the birthday of Abraham Lincoln? It all seems rather murky.
But a bit of investigation reveals an interesting tale.
According to calendars used since the mid 18th century, Washington was born on February 22, 1732. This date consequently became the generally accepted date for observances of Washington’s birth.
Public celebrations for George Washington's birthday actually predate his term as president, and were originally intended to honor his service in the War for Independence. By the early 19th century, Washington's Birthday had taken hold in the American experience as a full-fledged national holiday.
Its traditions included Birthnight Balls in various parts of the country, speeches and receptions and revelry in taverns throughout the land.
The story of Washington’s life was widely taught and legends about Washington began to grow.
Then, Abraham’s Lincoln’s birthday, February 12, emerged as an important national event.
The birthday of our 16th President was first observed in 1865, one year after his assassination. But Lincoln’s birthday was never officially declared a federal holiday as Washington’s was even though Lincoln’s birthday was an official holiday in several states.
For decades, February was a grand month for celebrating Washington and Lincoln, our two greatest Presidents. Schools, stores, banks, libraries and other public locations were festooned with portraits of Washington and Lincoln. The profiles of both men were instantly recognizable and stories of Washington and the cherry tree and Lincoln the railsplitter abounded.
Then, in 1968 Congress passed something called the Uniform Holidays Bill which made Washington’s Birthday a Monday holiday. Starting in 1971, the third Monday in February became Washington’s Birthday. It’s been that way for 39 years now.
But a funny thing happened along the way.
Washington’s Birthday somehow became Presidents Day. Nobody declared it. Nobody proclaimed it. It just happened. And that’s what the third Monday in February has been called even though the federal government still officially lists it as Washington’s Birthday.
The result is that we now have a day that stands for nothing.
Some people actually think Presidents Day honors the current president. Some people think it honors all the presidents. Some people think it honors their own favorite president or presidents. Some people think it’s just a shopping holiday. All those people are wrong, wrong, wrong!
And the sad part is that school children seem to be as confused as anyone else. If you ask a kid today about something as basic as Washington crossing the Delaware or the legend of the cherry tree he or she would probably respond with total bewilderment.
And nobody seems to even understand how we got to this point. There has even been an urban legend that in 1971 President Nixon officially designated February 22 as Presidents Day. But it never happened.
So, here’s my solution. Let’s start celebrating February 22 as Washington’s Birthday again and give the father of our country his due. This means no disrespect to Lincoln or any other president. It simply recognizes the greatness of Washington and his paramount role in our history.
At a dinner honoring the centennial of Washington’s birth in 1832 Daniel Webster said that Washington’s legacy was nothing less than “the edifice of constitutional American liberty.”
It’s time to resurrect that legacy, acknowledge that edifice and restore George Washington’s rightful place in our national life.

WOW! Looks What's Happening In Atlantic City!

Why Bernie Sanders Is A National Disgrace . .

Socialist Bernie Sanders says he's "embarrassed" by what he calls Israel's "racist government" pic.twitter.com/1WDTKj6aPJ

— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) February 19, 2023

"Tickets for your [book] tour apparently are selling for $95 on Ticketmaster, which is accused of anti-competitive behavior...aren’t you benefitting yourself from the system that you’re trying to dismantle?”

Bernie Sanders says "no." 🤔 pic.twitter.com/JIcpW0kaw5

— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) February 19, 2023

Still, Geometry Was One Of My Favorite Subjects

 

Meanwhile, Phil Murphy Is In Europe . . .

Huge turnout at the Save the Whales rally in Point Pleasant Beach today https://t.co/9motXi6cG1

— Jim Murdoch (@ReporterJim) February 19, 2023

Major NJ Event Sunday To Save The Whales!

 

Jimmy Carter: Health Status