This time it’s Jane’s Jungle.
Earlier this month, New York City’s grand Gothic cathedral marked the annual feast day of St. Francis of Assisi, celebrating the blessing of animals. It’s quite special, really.
I used to host a similar event at St. John the Divine for over a decade until the pandemic came along and changed everything. It was a lovely mix—young people, babies, healthy individuals, stray dogs, police dogs, folks who were unwell, elderly, rescue dogs, frogs, fish, turtles, horses outside, and even some sheep, pigs, cows, camels, donkeys, chickens, and goats. Quite a scene, huh?
There was even a choir of Jewish animals accompanied by a rabbi, which made the day even richer. I still recall Cardinal Dolan lying on the ground petting a Chihuahua while a Great Dane patiently waited nearby. You just have to laugh at that image.
There were prayers, music, a choir, and of course, a fair number of photographers and reporters. In total, around 2,000 New Yorkers brought their furry, feathered, and scaly family members along for the celebration.
In a different setting, Jane Fonda recently had a conversation with the cathedral’s first female priest. After the animal parade, she ventured to Harlem and indulged in some fried chicken and collard greens at Melba’s. Sounds quite delightful!
city landscape
Meanwhile, Lindsay Lohan was spotted at Hudson Yards. I’m looking out the window, pondering what her interests might be. It’s definitely not my husband; he seems quite occupied. There’s a certain charm to views like this, paired with champagne and caviar. Oh, and Alyssa Milano was seen savoring a fish dish at Avra on 6th Avenue. Then there’s Bethenny Frankel from ZZ’s Club, contemplating some untouched pizza while discussing astrology. Who knows?
If you’re interested in Jackie Gleason’s former residence, it boasts marble and teak, stretches over 7,000 square feet, and has a round room. It’s on the market for a cool $5.5 million. Quite a buy!
Mike Pompeo attended the Alfred E. Smith Banquet at the Waldorf, and made an interesting comment regarding the cardinal’s history as a former CIA operative, suggesting that the Vatican’s black smoke perhaps needs a rebranding to white smoke. Curious thought, right?
create a scene
In the meantime, PR experts James Fragar and David Muir are hitting the gym at Equinox. You might soon spot them in more fitted suits. Interestingly, the new up-and-comer in film is the daughter of Seinfeld’s director. Her short film, “The Final Cut,” features Ali Wentworth and Henry Winkler playing God. She mentioned she has a “regular job” and identifies more as a writer than a filmmaker. Quite the humble approach!
Listen, everyone.
On another note, it might be worth letting the government know that New York State doesn’t issue tax refunds for syndicated programming—unlike New Jersey and Connecticut. Also, J. Lopez spoke about her experience in “Kiss of the Spider Woman,” noting it felt under-rehearsed with the director preferring only one take. That must have been tough.
Internationally, travel seems to be declining. There’s even a book titled “Kabul’s Finest Hotel: A History of the People of Afghanistan.” Although it’s quite a slim volume.
foreign affairs
The ultimate Italian getaway could be at Casa di Langa, costing about $14,375 per person, which includes a hot air balloon ride. It’s still early morning, mind you. Meanwhile, there’s some buzz about someone vehemently denying claims of British harassment. Why not address the apparent issue of a prince, who seems unwilling to follow simple safety advice?
I suppose, as I mentioned earlier, I’m probably too soft-spoken to voice such opinions.
Today’s rules.
If you’ve been convicted, you’re released. College? Well, you’re advised to study hatred. School? Reading and writing may not be in the cards just yet. Career? Looks like it’s moving back in with the folks. Work? Oh no, just take your medicine. What about your country? Just don’t desecrate the flag. Interested in antiques? How about a close-up on Pelosi?
And this, dear children, is truly the United States of America.
