Winsome Sears is officially the 2025 Republican Nominee for Governor of Virginia!
Sunday, April 6, 2025
Saturday, April 5, 2025
More Street Scenes From Beautiful Barcelona
In our travels the most fascinating sights are often not so much thye buildings or the natural treasures but rather, the people that we see on the streets of so many towns and cities that we pass through. Here are some from our recent journey to Barcelona.
Friday, April 4, 2025
Extraordinary Relic Image Headed This Way!
The following is from the National center for Padro Pio:
We're just past the halfway point of Lent, with the blessed season of Easter on the horizon. Soon, we’ll be hearing about the resurrection of Our Lord, recounting the first Easter Sunday, when Saints Peter and John discovered the empty tomb in Jerusalem, the cloth that covered Christ’s face was rolled up separately from the shroud that covered His body. But did you know that this cloth was discovered in the early 1500s and is actually on display in a small village in Italy today?
Il Volto Santo, or the Holy Face, is one of the most revered relics in Christianity, enshrined in the Basilica of the Volto Santo in Manoppello, Italy. This delicate veil, measuring approximately 17.5 cm by 24 cm, bears an image of the true face of Jesus Christ. According to tradition, this veil absorbed the very first breath of the Risen Christ, imprinting upon itself a vivid and inexplicable image of His resurrected face. Modern scholars have confirmed that the image corresponds perfectly in all its measurements to the face of the dead Christ on the Shroud of Turin, reinforcing its authenticity and divine origin.
For centuries, the Holy Veil has inspired deep devotion, theological reflection, and scientific inquiry. Historical accounts trace its arrival in Manoppello around 1506, though its origins remain mysterious. In 1618, Brother Remigio da Rapino, a Capuchin friar, carefully framed the veil between two panes of glass to preserve it. The Capuchin friars later enshrined the relic in the Church of St. Michael the Archangel in 1638, ensuring its veneration for generations. The first recorded feast in its honor took place on August 6, 1690, aligning with the Feast of the Transfiguration, and since then, processions and hymns dedicated to the Holy Face have become integral to its tradition.
In modern times, Il Volto Santo has drawn increasing global attention. Pope Benedict XVI visited the shrine, emphasizing its significance in Christian devotion and bringing renewed awareness to this sacred image.
A Historic Enthronement in the United States
In an extraordinary gesture, the National Centre for Padre Pio in Barto, Pennsylvania, has been chosen as the first location on the East Coast of the United States to house an authentic relic image of the Holy Face of Manoppello. How appropriate, considering that Padre Pio’s last known bilocation was to visit Il Volto Santo on the morning of September 22, 1968 – just hours before his death – and ask for prayers from Padre Domenico da Cese, rector of the Basilica of Manoppello. This relic image will be permanently enshrined for veneration, providing the faithful in America with a unique opportunity to witness and pray before this sacred image.
The Enthronement of the Holy Veil will take place on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at 12:00 PM at the National Centre for Padre Pio. The solemn Mass and Enthronement ceremony will be celebrated by Bishop Alfred Schlert, D.D., J.C.L., Bishop of the Diocese of Allentown, PA, and Padre Antonio Gentili, O.F.M., Capuchin, Rector of the Basilica Shrine of the Holy Face in Manoppello, Italy. This historic event invites all the faithful to partake in a moment of profound spiritual significance as the Holy Face of Manoppello finds a home in the United States. All are welcome, there is no preregistration required. Mark your calendars and please plan on attending!
Il Volto Santo continues to inspire wonder and reverence. Its mysterious origins, fragile beauty, and profound spiritual significance invite both pilgrims and scholars to explore its history. As it gains recognition across the world, its message remains timeless—a reminder of Christ’s presence and love for humanity. The enthronement of this sacred image at the National Centre for Padre Pio marks a new chapter in the devotion to Il Volto Santo, ensuring that its spiritual presence will continue to bless generations to come.
For more information on the Enthronement of the relic at the National Centre for Padre Pio, reply to this email or email info@padrepio.org or visit www.padrepio.org.
Great Opportunity To Hear Future Jazz Musicians!
Eighteen students representing Archdiocesan parish and regional elementary schools and private Catholic elementary schools throughout the five-county region have been selected to participate in the Combined All Catholic Jazz Band Concert.
Saturday, April 5, 2025
3:00 p.m.
Archbishop Ryan High School
11201 Academy Road
Philadelphia, PA 19154
3:00 p.m.
Archbishop Ryan High School
11201 Academy Road
Philadelphia, PA 19154
This year’s Elementary Jazz Band is under the direction of guest conductor, Allison Kershner. Jennifer Monaghan will serve as the Elementary Music Festival Coordinator.
Students from Archdiocesan parish and regional elementary schools including Corpus Christi Parish School in Lansdale (Montgomery County); Good Shepherd Catholic Regional School in Ardsley (Montgomery County); Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish School in Southampton (Bucks County); Our Mother of Consolation Parish School in the Chestnut Hill section of Philadelphia; Presentation Blessed Virgin Mary Parish School in Cheltenham (Montgomery County); Queen of Angels Regional Catholic School in Willow Grove (Montgomery County); Saints Peter and Paul Parish School in West Chester (Chester County); Saint Katharine Drexel Regional Catholic School in Southampton (Bucks County); Saint Margaret Parish School in Narberth (Montgomery County); and Saint Pius X Parish School in Broomall (Delaware County) will participate.
Students from private Catholic elementary schools including Ancillae Assumpta Academy in Wyncote (Montgomery County); Devon Preparatory School in Devon (Chester County); and Saint Aloysius Academy in Bryn Mawr (Montgomery County) will also participate.
The students will perform the following pieces Blues Infusion arranged by Doug Beach; Listen Here arranged by Zachary Smith; Absolutely, Positively arranged by Gregory Yasinitsky; and Pass the Hot Sauce arranged by Brad Ciechomski.
Eighteen students representing Archdiocesan and private Catholic High Schools throughout the five-county region have been selected to participate in the All Catholic High School Jazz Band concert.
This year’s All Catholic Jazz Band, is under the direction of guest conductor, David Zagorski, Director of Bands, Nazareth Academy High School in Northeast Philadelphia. Sister Lauretta Linsalata, IHM will serve as the High School Music Festival Coordinator.
Students from Archdiocesan secondary schools including Archbishop John Carroll High School in Radnor (Delaware County); Archbishop Ryan High School in Northeast Philadelphia; Archbishop Wood High School in Warminster (Bucks County); Conwell-Egan Catholic High School in Fairless Hills (Bucks County); Saint Hubert Catholic High School for Girls in the Tacony section of Philadelphia; Pope John Paul II High School in Royersford (Montgomery County); and Roman Catholic High School in Philadelphia will participate.
Students from private Catholic high schools including Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School in Gwynedd Valley (Montgomery County); Holy Ghost Preparatory School in Bensalem (Bucks County); Saint Joseph’s Preparatory High School in North Philadelphia; Malvern Preparatory High School for Boys in Malvern (Chester County); and Merion Mercy Academy in Merion Station (Montgomery County) will also participate.
The students will perform the following pieces In the Mood by Joe Garland, arranged by Glenn Miller; Lady in Lace by Frank Foster, arranged by Larry McKenna; My Foolish Heart by Victor Young, arranged by Larry Mckenna; and The Goof and I by Al Cohn, arranged by Larry McKenna.
Tickets are $10.00 and can be purchased at the door.
Prior to the concert, students will participate in a daylong Jazz band workshop.
Note: For additional information about the All Catholic Music Festivals, please visit allcatholicmusic.org/.
Thursday, April 3, 2025
Pelosi And Tariffs In 1996: What The Hell Happened?
In 1996, Nancy Pelosi sounded A LOT like President Trump! pic.twitter.com/1yDypJO97y
— ACT For America (@ACTforAmerica) April 4, 2025
She Does NOT Suffer Fools Gladly!
.@PressSec goes off on reporter outside of White House:
— Silverloch (@SilverlochMedia) March 31, 2025
"Shame on you and shame on the mainstream media!" pic.twitter.com/oC3VLE9a3U
Wednesday, April 2, 2025
Because You Asked: The Best Of Manhattan Now!
As theatergoers we spend lot of time in midtown Manhattan. And we've been frequenting this bustling corner of the world for decades. So, it's not surprising that people are always asking us for recommendations about how to get around, where to eat, etc.
Now, in no particular order, we give you our observations and suggestions:
First, never ever assume that New Yorkers are to busy not to help you. They are among the most helpful people in the world, provided you know what you're looking for and you get to the point. Ask directions simply and clearly of any New Yorker and you will get your answer. And if you're prompt and very polite, you're likely to get some great recommendations from a local as well. But don't tally and be especially careful not to bother someone who honestly seems to be on an urgent mission.
Uptown, downtown, east side, west side. The island of Manhattan is a perfect grid divided into four parts. Numbered streets run north and south. Avenues run east and west. Avenue blocks are long and take more time to traverse. Street blocks are short and rush by quickly. If you're headed north, that's uptown. Conversely, downtown is south. The west side is the side facing New Jersey along the Hudson River. The east side is the side facing Brooklyn and Queens along the East River. The upper east and upper west sides are divided by Central Park. The island is narrower at the bottom and comes to a point at the Battery.
If you're going north or south (uptown or downtown) you don't necessarily have to take a cab. You can hop on a convenient uptown bus on Fifth Avenue or an equally frequent downtown bus on Seventh Avenue and pay simply by tapping your credit card as you get on. The vehicles are clean and efficient and stops are announced by an automated voice so you can quickly and easily signal the stop you want and depart. There's honestly no better way to travel up and down Manhattan!
You can find any kind of food in Manhattan that you could possibly want and in any price range. Consider the variety of the following, from the sumptuous and sublime (SS) to the cozy and comforting (CC) and everywhere in between (IB).
Le Bernardin: (SS) Luxe French dining from chef Eric Ripert. This is top-of-the-line all the way and a place where Big Deals are brokered and special occasions are marked amidst hushed surroundings. If you want to appreciate it without spending a fortune, try it for lunch.
Astro Restaurant: (CC) An old-fashioned corner diner with a huge menu, it's tiny but mighty and very, very Noo Yawk. We count this as one of our best finds and the essence of old school, no nonsense meals served fresh, fast and delicious. Breakfast lunch, dinner, late night -- and the coffee is great, too. Wow!
Trattoria Dell'Arte: (IB) Informal, engaging, colorful and wonderfully hospitable, this spacious mostly-Italian eatery is a perennial favorite of ours. It transports you to an Italian artist's studio, adorned with oversized sculptures, captivating drawings, and a unique wall gallery featuring famous Italian noses. But none of that would matter if the food wasn't fantastic. Fortunately, it is!
Wolfgang's Steakhouse (IB): This ultimate New York steakhouse has several locations but we like the one on 41st Street that is close to Times Square but also worlds apart. Step down into surpassingly spacious, airy surroundings with crisp white tablecloths, an efficient staff and great fare and cocktails facing an indoor garden. And, it's just steps away from nearby Broadway theaters. Marvelous!
Bemelmans Bar (SS): Tucked into the legendary Carlyle Hotel, you'll discover the most divine icy martini on the cushy upper east side. And, you'll be surrounded by the whimsical murals of Ludwig Bemelmans, the creator of the classic Madeline children’s books. The soft, golden glow and the live piano music will transport you to another era. You'll probably have to wait your turn to gain entry and it will co$t you but, trust us, it's all worth it!
Nerolab Italian Food Zone (CC): You'll find delight in this cozy continental bistro on the mezzanine level of Trump Tower. Here you'll get a great view of the glistening Trump Tower lobby while enjoying cappucino, espresso, Italian pastries or what's billed as the crispiest, most authentic pinsa you’ll ever taste. Give it a try!
Osteria al Doge (IB): We've been going to this popular Italian trattoria in the theater district for more than 30 years and we've never had a bad meal. It consistently receives high marks for its delicious food, warm atmosphere, and excellent service, and is a favorite for pre and post Broadway theater dining. There's a reason for its longevity!
Marsaille (IB/CC): If this delightfully informal French bistro in the gritty Hell's Kitchen neighborhood doesn't satisfy your taste buds, nothing will. Great uncomplicated French faire served up just as you like it. A convivial ambience is an added plus. Try the tiny table in the far corner with a great view of the entire panoplie.
Virgil's (CC): No pretenses here, folks. This is down home barbecue at its best. In fact, it's been acclaimed as one of America's top 10 BBQ restaurants. Virgil's features meats that are smoked at a low temperature over indirect heat for up to 10 hours with a unique mix of hickory, oak and fruit woods that impart maximum flavor. Virgil's big neon sign beckons you. You won't be disappointed!
Now, in no particular order, we give you our observations and suggestions:
Uptown, downtown, east side, west side. The island of Manhattan is a perfect grid divided into four parts. Numbered streets run north and south. Avenues run east and west. Avenue blocks are long and take more time to traverse. Street blocks are short and rush by quickly. If you're headed north, that's uptown. Conversely, downtown is south. The west side is the side facing New Jersey along the Hudson River. The east side is the side facing Brooklyn and Queens along the East River. The upper east and upper west sides are divided by Central Park. The island is narrower at the bottom and comes to a point at the Battery.
If you're going north or south (uptown or downtown) you don't necessarily have to take a cab. You can hop on a convenient uptown bus on Fifth Avenue or an equally frequent downtown bus on Seventh Avenue and pay simply by tapping your credit card as you get on. The vehicles are clean and efficient and stops are announced by an automated voice so you can quickly and easily signal the stop you want and depart. There's honestly no better way to travel up and down Manhattan!
You can find any kind of food in Manhattan that you could possibly want and in any price range. Consider the variety of the following, from the sumptuous and sublime (SS) to the cozy and comforting (CC) and everywhere in between (IB).
Le Bernardin: (SS) Luxe French dining from chef Eric Ripert. This is top-of-the-line all the way and a place where Big Deals are brokered and special occasions are marked amidst hushed surroundings. If you want to appreciate it without spending a fortune, try it for lunch.
Astro Restaurant: (CC) An old-fashioned corner diner with a huge menu, it's tiny but mighty and very, very Noo Yawk. We count this as one of our best finds and the essence of old school, no nonsense meals served fresh, fast and delicious. Breakfast lunch, dinner, late night -- and the coffee is great, too. Wow!
Trattoria Dell'Arte: (IB) Informal, engaging, colorful and wonderfully hospitable, this spacious mostly-Italian eatery is a perennial favorite of ours. It transports you to an Italian artist's studio, adorned with oversized sculptures, captivating drawings, and a unique wall gallery featuring famous Italian noses. But none of that would matter if the food wasn't fantastic. Fortunately, it is!
Wolfgang's Steakhouse (IB): This ultimate New York steakhouse has several locations but we like the one on 41st Street that is close to Times Square but also worlds apart. Step down into surpassingly spacious, airy surroundings with crisp white tablecloths, an efficient staff and great fare and cocktails facing an indoor garden. And, it's just steps away from nearby Broadway theaters. Marvelous!
Bemelmans Bar (SS): Tucked into the legendary Carlyle Hotel, you'll discover the most divine icy martini on the cushy upper east side. And, you'll be surrounded by the whimsical murals of Ludwig Bemelmans, the creator of the classic Madeline children’s books. The soft, golden glow and the live piano music will transport you to another era. You'll probably have to wait your turn to gain entry and it will co$t you but, trust us, it's all worth it!
Nerolab Italian Food Zone (CC): You'll find delight in this cozy continental bistro on the mezzanine level of Trump Tower. Here you'll get a great view of the glistening Trump Tower lobby while enjoying cappucino, espresso, Italian pastries or what's billed as the crispiest, most authentic pinsa you’ll ever taste. Give it a try!
Osteria al Doge (IB): We've been going to this popular Italian trattoria in the theater district for more than 30 years and we've never had a bad meal. It consistently receives high marks for its delicious food, warm atmosphere, and excellent service, and is a favorite for pre and post Broadway theater dining. There's a reason for its longevity!
Marsaille (IB/CC): If this delightfully informal French bistro in the gritty Hell's Kitchen neighborhood doesn't satisfy your taste buds, nothing will. Great uncomplicated French faire served up just as you like it. A convivial ambience is an added plus. Try the tiny table in the far corner with a great view of the entire panoplie.
Virgil's (CC): No pretenses here, folks. This is down home barbecue at its best. In fact, it's been acclaimed as one of America's top 10 BBQ restaurants. Virgil's features meats that are smoked at a low temperature over indirect heat for up to 10 hours with a unique mix of hickory, oak and fruit woods that impart maximum flavor. Virgil's big neon sign beckons you. You won't be disappointed!
Anita Gelato (CC): This fast-growing gelato behemoth (also known as La Mama Del Gelato) has arrived in Manhattan and is attracting big crowds. Don't be scared away by all the flash, fanfare and in-your-face promotion. The stuff is really good and the sidewalk lines prove it!
Ralph Lauren's Polo Bar (IB) It's become ça fait fureur for luxe fashion houses to offer bars and/or restaurants on the premises but few can measure up to Ralph's jewel box just off Fifth Avenue. You'll have to call well in advance as soon as reservations open for the date you want and then (if you're lucky) your name will be placed on a list allowing you to check in at the door. The gleaming bar awaits as you enter and downstairs, the clubby dining room, exquisite in every detail. And don't be surprised if Ralph and Vicky show up. Play it cool . . .
Le Pavillion (SS): This is a dazzler in the new One Vanderbilt building near Grand Central and it ranks near the top of the list of Manhattan's best. It's said to express chef Daniel Boulud's roots in New York City with a fresh and unique approach to fine dining in a dramatic setting. It promises what it delivers, and more. And though it's formidablé, it's never intimidating.
The Modern (SS): In the Museum of Modern Art you'll find Danny Meyer's ultimate dining experience. Sleekly contemporary, it's a perfect spot if you want to see and be seen. This place holds two Michelin stars, a Three Star review in the New York Times, four James Beard Awards, and the Grand Award from Wine Spectator. Imbibe, chill and slowly melt into the surroundings knowing this is where you were meant to be!
Myzel's Chocolates (CC): This tiny chocolate shop across from the grand City Center performing arts edifice on 55th Street is chocolate, licorice and chocolate chip cookie heaven. You'll find the owner, Kamila behind the counter. The cookie recipe here is touted as a traditional one refined by Kamila's mother over decades within a chocolate-making tradition exemplifying exceptional baking and cooking. Also, delight in more than 100 licorice flavors from Europe. PS: Jackie Kennedy Onassis bought her cookies here!
Annie Moore's (CC): A popular after work place for drinks, munchies and basic faire, this Irish pub near Madison Avenue is the sort of place where you might have found Don Draper once upon a time. But while the big ad agencies have long since abandoned Mad Ave, Annie's is still there and still serving lunch and dinner every day except Sunday. You can have bar food, salads, sandwiches, burgers, chicken pot pie, steak, salmon -- pretty much whatever you want!
Sarabeth's (IB/CC): There are four of them in Manhattan but we like the one on Central Park South. They say that this is the place for brunch and who are we to argue? Yeah, it can be crowded and touristy but so what? When they ask you to indulge in their signature eggs, fluffy pancakes, and famous French toast, they mean it because at this place it's all about indulging, in the best sense of the word!
Goodman's Bar (SS): You'll find Goodman's nestled into a second floor corner of Bergdorf Goodman's men's store on Fifth Avenue. Get there early because it's only open until 6 pm each day. Enjoy crafted cocktails while gazing at the art of the mixologist as well as wines curated by Master Sommelier Dustin Wilson and cuisine by Chef Austin Johnson. Goodman's manages to be simultaneously new and old world -- no small feat. This place is living proof that luxe can also be cozy.
Le Grande Boucherie (IB): It's exactly what it says it is and it's delightful -- well, not literally, as boucherie is a "butcher shop." But, hey, it's French so, this ain't no ordinary butcher shop. Instead, it combines artful spaciousness with intimacy as only the French can with fresh, tasty dishes served up as if you were in a Parisian arcade -- which you are, as this place stretches (under glorious arches) the entire block of Sixth-and-a-half Avenue. Yes, there really is such an address and yes, it really is worth finding!
Tuesday, April 1, 2025
Folks, We Can't Make These Things Up!
Listen to this ACLU attorney, Chase Strangio
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) March 31, 2025
"Claiming that transgender women in women's sports are men is wrong. The president is lying when he says there are men impersonating women and participating in women's sports. There are no examples."pic.twitter.com/wIXY1szcY0
TRUMP! The Musical To Debut At Kennedy Center
Just announced by TheaterMania, excerpted below:
President Donald J. Trump and the board of trustees at the Kennedy Center have announced the center’s most ambitious commission to date. Trump! The Musical! will be a bio-musical about the real estate mogul and reality TV star who became America’s 45th and 47th president.
“It’s going to be just like Hamilton without DEI,” said the president in a press conference. “And you know what?,” he added, “It’s going to be even better than Evita … and with a happier ending. We love a happy ending.” . . .
TheaterMania’s sources indicate that the president initially reached out to Andrew Lloyd Webber to write the music for Trump! The Musical!, but the composer of Cats and Jesus Christ Superstar has yet to return his call. “He’ll be getting a one-way ticket to El Salvador the next time he lands at JFK,” Trump reportedly told an aide who reminded the president that his favorite composer is an English baron.
But the show must go on. According to an official press release, the score of Trump! The Musical! will be penned by Kennedy Center trustee Lee Greenwood, with a book by Grok, Elon Musk’s AI chatbot. . . .
Read the full story here and discover the story behind today's story!
She Should Have Been 'Retired' Ages Ago!
Asked last night for an everyday item that’s overdue for an upgrade. Easy: Leslie Stahl at 60 Minutes. Been there since 1991 & jumped the shark with her starvation question to hostage Keith Siegel. An upgrade is long overdue. Woof. pic.twitter.com/ajz3pLjbpO
— Scott Jennings (@ScottJenningsKY) April 1, 2025
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