Setting New Records With 'Quick And Bold Steps'

'On The Front Lines' For Those Who Need It Most!

Governor Christie: 

Let me again thank the folks from 2-1-1, and the fact that they’re manning these phones at REACHNJ is an enormous service to the people of our state. You know, Gina was nice enough to say that I’m helping to save lives – I hope that’s true. 

But what I can also tell you is that the people on these phones are the ones who are really on the front lines. They’re the ones who are giving the information that is needed, they’re the ones who are directing people in the right way. They’re the ones who are you know, putting them on that path to hope. 

Now, what they do once they get on the path to hope is up to them. We can only provide them with those opportunities, and a little bit more than gentle nudge maybe towards it, but after that, it’s the accomplishment of the person along with the team that’s helping to treat them that is going to make the difference in all this. But if people don’t know where to go for help when they need it, they can’t even begin that journey. So, for both the Commissioner of Human Services and the Commissioner of Health, thank you for your participation in helping to make this happen. 

All the other people on my team who are doing this, there’s a lot of people working on it, and I appreciate their help as well. And finally and most importantly, to Vanessa and James, who I played the ads last night for Mary Pat, both the TV and the radio ads, and she wanted me to pass on to both of you how emotional she was about it and how overwhelmed she was by your willingness to so candidly and openly share your stories. 

So, I pass on, not only from me on behalf of the people of the State, but from my wife how moved she was by what you were willing to do and how important this is to us and our family that other families have the opportunity to be able to get the help that they need. 

And you all, are going to be exactly Vanessa what you told the President you wanted to be was a beacon of hope for people and that’s an incredible gift.

Before Political Correctness, THIS Was Comedy!

I last saw Don Rickels perform more than five years ago in Atlantic City at The Borgata.
People of all ages had come to see the show in Borgata's Music Box, a jewel of a venue where there isn't a bad seat in the house. And, yes Rickels did single out some people in the first few rows of the theatre for his inimitable verbal jabs. And they were honored to be chosen by the Master of the Insult.
It had been more than four decades since I'd last seen Rickels perform. That was in Las Vegas in the late 1960s when his act seemed outrageous and just this side of shocking. But the world had changed. Now, Rickels seemed almost genteel. He was somewhat stooped over with a slower gait and broader movements.
But Rickels' mind was still sharp and the zingers were as fast and funny as they ever were. Plus, he was able to mock people as much with a growl, a scowl or a movement as with his words. It was all classic Rickels. Backed by a full orchestra, he even sang and danced a bit (a sly soft shoe) when he wasn't needling the orchestra conductor or the guys in the band. No one was safe from Don Rickels' swipes.
Rickels ended the show all sweetness and light, however as he talked about his long career and his life on stage and in the spotlight. "This is all I know," he told the crowd. "This is who I am. It's what I do. Where else would I go? Who else would I be with, except you?" he asked. "It's just a joy to be up here sharing this time with you."
Once more, Don Rickels delivered. He gave his audience what they came for. He not only lived up to their expectations, he exceeded them. Young and old alike, members of the audience universally praised him as we filed out of the Music Box.
Rickels was truly legendary. His shtick combined vaudeville, stand-up, the comedic side of burlesque and the world of late night TV.
No question about it, Don Rickles was one of comedy’s most famous funnymen. 

As his official bio notes, for over 55 years he appeared in top showrooms and concert halls throughout the U.S. and internationally. Indeed, he was regarded among the world’s top entertainers.
Rickles story is impressive and inspiring. He was born in New York City, May 8, 1926, to Max and Etta (Feldman) Rickles. He grew up in the Jackson Heights area of New York. After graduating from high school, Rickles enlisted in the Navy and served for two years during World War II on the USS Cyrene as a seaman first class. He was honorably discharged in 1946. Soon thereafter, he studied and graduated from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. 

Unable to get enough work as an actor, Rickles began doing stand-up comedy. He became known as an “insult” comedian because of the way he would respond to his hecklers. The thing is, the audience seemed to actually enjoy these spontaneous barbs more than Rickels' prepared material. So, Rickels developed a style which featured making fun of people. 

Of course, Rickels was a fine actor as well.
In fact, in 1958, Rickles made his dramatic film debut in Run Silent, Run Deep which starred Clark Gable and Burt Lancaster. Throughout the next decade, he was seen frequently on television in both sitcoms and dramatic series. Among his memorable guest-starring roles were playing an old war buddy of Don Adams on Get Smart and portraying a troubled comedian who winds up killing an audience member on Run For Your Life. Other TV guest appearances included The Dick Van Dyke Show, The Lucy Show, The Munsters, Gilligan’s Island, The Andy Griffith Show and I Dream of Jeannie.
In the early 60’s, Rickles appeared in The Rat Race with Tony Curtis and Debbie Reynolds, and in Roger Corman’s drama film X: The Man with the X-Ray Eyes as a carnival barker who exploits the lead character played by Ray Milland.
In the mid ‘60’s, Rickles appeared in the popular Beach Party film series. And the scripted opportunities continued to come his way. Throughout his career he was seen in both drama and comedy movies and TV episodes.
In 1985. Frank Sinatra was asked to perform at Ronald Reagan’s Second Inaugural Ball. Sinatra stipulated that he would not do so unless Don Rickles was allowed to perform with him. Rickles did perform at the televised inaugural gala, where he “zinged” the President, the Vice President and other dignitaries gathered for the occasion. This is one of the highest honors an entertainer can be afforded and, according to his official bio,  Rickles considered this performance the highlight of his career.
In 2013, Rickles was honored with the Friars Club’s Lifetime Achievement Award for Comedy at a star-studded awards gala at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York. Among those participating in honoring Don through their songs or words were Lewis Black, Louis C.K., Natalie Cole, Bob Costas, Tony Danza, Robert DeNiro, Kathy Griffin, Diana Krall, John Mayer, Bob Newhart, Regis Philbin, Joan Rivers, Bob Saget and John Stamos.
In 2014, Spike TV, TV Land and Comedy Central aired “One Night Only: An All-Star Comedy Tribute to Don Rickles.” Honoring Don on the two-hour special, which emanated from the famed Apollo Theater in New York City, were Bill Cosby, Robert DeNiro, Johnny Depp, Tina Fey, Brad Garrett, Jimmy Kimmel, David Letterman, Tracy Morgan, Eddie Murphy, Bob Newhart, Regis Philbin, Amy Poehler, Ray Romano, Martin Scorsese, Jerry Seinfeld, Jon Stewart and Brian Williams.

Don Rickels was an American original. There will never be another like him. Never!

Hey, Look What's Comin Downashore, Hon . . .

WOW!
Hard Rock International has announced plans to spend nearly $400 million rebranding the Taj Mahal property of Atlantic City into the new Hard Rock Hotel and Casino.
This is a Big Boost for AC and for NJ!
This dazzling new attraction is expected to feature two separate arenas with seating totaling 7,000 and more 2,400 slot machines. Target for opening is the summer of 2018.

Open Your Eyes, Gaze Upon It -- And Know This . . .

This IS America's First Family.
Deal with it, liberals!

Outreach Now With An Inspiring New ANTHEM!

Background

Last June, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia announced the launch of newly revived youth and young adult ministry initiatives in the five-county region along with the appointment of Mr. Jacob King as Director, and Megan Mastroianni as Associate Director for Youth and Young Adult Ministry. Subsequently, Abigale Gutowski was named Event Coordinator for this ministry.

Over the past nine months, this team has worked to develop a long-range plan and vision for their ministry in conjunction with Archbishop Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap. and Bishop Michael Fitzgerald, who oversees their ministry as part of his administrative duties. They have also worked closely with consultors from parishes and schools including parish youth group leaders and young adult leaders. Glass Canvas, a creative agency, and Jim Beckman, through the Leadership Institute Impact Center, have provided external support, research, and creative consultation. As part of the initial work outlined above a new identity has emerged for this vital ministry of the local Church.

Today’s Announcement

Today, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia is pleased to announce that the Office of Youth and Young Adults has been officially renamed ANTHEM.

The new name was chosen as a result of careful prayer, consideration, and market research to gauge what would appeal to contemporary youth and young adults.

ANTHEM has its basis in the biblical story of David as well as a musical connotation. As the warrior who slew Goliath against all odds, the figure of David gives young people inspiration to face the challenges unique to their generation. In addition to being a warrior, David was also a poet who wrote the Psalms with an authentic heart of praise, speaking deeply to the connection music has for the faith life of young people. Music invites, unites, and speaks a universal language attractive to all.

 Jacob King, Director of ANTHEM said, "We want to bring millennials the authentic Church, filled with people like them dealing with issues relevant to today’s culture. The Church isn’t a set of rules; it’s a field hospital for all of us, the wounded. We hope this revival of ministry will knock down stereotypes and misconceptions that keep people away from where they belong."

As part of its ministerial outreach ANTHEM will continue offering training and support to youth ministers, produce live events, and facilitate community service with a renewed commitment to creating a culture that allows for young people to have a personal encounter with Jesus.

Note: For more information on ANTHEM, please visit http://anthemphilly.com/ and follow them on social media:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anthemphilly/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AnthemPhilly
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anthemphilly/

You Better Believe It: It's Happening Right Now . . .

Unspooling, one day at a time . . . 

The Day's BIGGEST Non-Story, Except For . . .

This is a total non-story.
Reports say that Bannon never even attended an NSC meeting. Whatever clearance he may or may not have had was apparently not used in the first place.
This stands right up there with the other non-story of the day: Barry Manilow came out as gay. Whew, what a shock!

Our Five Favorite New Jersey State Legislators

Yeah, you may consider New Jersey true blue.

But the Republican Party in our state is not only alive and well -- it's also dotted with conscientious, independent minded elected officials who aren't afraid to listen to the people, stand up for taxpayers and lead the way to the kind of reforms that will create a brighter future for all.

In alphabetical order, here are five of the very best -- plus one:

1) Diane Allen - A pioneering broadcaster, a distinguished trailblazer and a fearless state senator, Diane Allen is one of New Jersey's most honored public servants. Now closing out an historic career, she stands right there alongside Millicent Fenwick as a giant of selfless service to the citizens of the Garden State. Truly irreplaceable!

2) Jennifer Beck - She led the battle against the onerous gas tax hike and that's not all. State Senator Jen Beck is a bright shining star on New Jersey's political horizon who's smart, savvy and diligent every step of the way. Bravo!

3) Gerald (Gerry) Cardinale - Always fighting the good fight, Senator Cardinale has championed common-sense conservative values for as long as we can remember. To call him legendary would be an understatement. Inimitable, scrappy and truly courageous!

4) Michael Patrick Carroll - Our favorite legislative Facebook commentator, this state assemblyman always hits the target. He's an indefatigable defender of limited government, budgetary control and rugged individualism. What a refreshing oasis of common sense he provides!

5) Joe Pennacchio - If you contact him, he will get back to you and he will do everything he can to help you. He's that personal, that responsive and that committed. And, Senator Pennacchio's a constant advocate for all the things we believe in as well. The best!

And, one more, just for good measure: Jay Webber. He not only looks the part but this outstanding state assemblyman acts the part as well. Matt Rooney has called him "the conservative conscience of the state legislature" and that's good enough for us!

So, if and when people tell you that New Jersey doesn't really have any genuine, responsive, rational Republican leaders, point to these six and tell them they don't know what they're talking about. The GOP bench in our state is rich, it's deep and it also holds bright promise for the future.

Now, In Just 98 Seconds We Explain It All For You!

Confused by what's going on in the Senate for Judge Gorsuch's Supreme Court confirmation? We hear ya. So we'll let Jimmy Stewart and Mufasa explain... 

Thanks, www.catholicvote.org