… Classes and workshops for a wide range of subjects have been scheduled.
Yes, DelArt is offering writing classes and workshops.
Visit Classes – Delaware Art Museum for information.
Posted 3-5-26
… at 2 a.m. local time in most areas of the United States. It is then that clocks and watches should be adjusted, if necessary, to indicate a springing forward of time by one hour.
Time confusion will result in some people arriving an hour late for church services on March 8, 2026.
There’ll be joy in Bible-believing, Bible-teaching houses of the Lord!
Romans 15:13: “Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.”
Posted 3-4-26
… is the subject of the song “Perfectly Loved.”
Accepting God’s perfect love makes perfect sense!
Posted 2-24-26
Perhaps you have considered, or will consider, including the words and/or sentiment of King David’s Psalm 143:8 in your evening prayers.
Psalm 143:8 KJV: “Cause me to hear thy lovingkindness in the morning; for in thee do I trust: cause me to know the way wherein I should walk; for I lift up my soul unto thee.”
https://www.blueletterbible.org/comm/guzik_david/study-guide/psalm/psalm-143.cfm
May we hear God’s lovingkindness in the morning and know the way that we should walk.
Posted 2-20-26
… that’s spotlighted in Pat Barrett’s song “I’ve Got A Fire.”
God forbid, to be or remain lukewarm towards the Lord.
Revelation 3:16: “So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.”
Have questions about Revelation 3:16? See: Why did Jesus speak so strongly against lukewarm faith? | GotQuestions.org.
Posted 2-19-26
Knowledge puffs up.
Love builds up.
May post-Valentine’s Day weekend reflection on 1 Corinthians 8:1 be a blessing to the readers of the Entertainment, Culture and More column.
You’ll find 1 Corinthians 8:1 at: https://www.blueletterbible.org/nasb20/1co/8/1/s_1070001.
The greatest love is that of the Lord!
Posted 2-16-26
Many millions of Americans have been greatly impacted by frost and thaw in recent weeks.
Photo by Steven Brodsky
On January 14, 1866, congregants of the Metropolitan Tabernacle church in London, England were reflecting on frost and thaw, and God, as Charles Haddon Spurgeon (who was known as the “Prince of Preachers”) was delivering his sermon “Frost and Thaw.”
Be blessed by “Frost and Thaw”: The Spurgeon Library | Frost and Thaw.
Photo by Steven Brodsky
Posted 2-13-26
… that recently fell on a large area of the United States begets the pairing of this photo with a verse from Isaiah:
Photo by Steven Brodsky
Isaiah 1:18: “Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.”
Posted 2-10-26
… will lead some of this column’s readers to reflect upon the current state of their souls:
Of course, matters related to the state of one’s soul can be addressed in prayers to God.
Posted 2-9-26
… said Jelly Roll in his acceptance speech at the 2026 GRAMMYs after winning the GRAMMY in the category of Best Contemporary Country Album for Beautifully Broken.
Yes, Jesus is for everybody!
Congratulations to Jelly Roll on winning this GRAMMY, and thanks to him for reminding us that Jesus is for everybody:
https://www.gotquestions.org/whoever-calls-name-Lord-saved.html
Posted 2-2-26
… Those who have been found by Him, know this firsthand!
See Luke 15:1-7: https://www.blueletterbible.org/nasb20/luk/15/1/s_988001.
Why would God leave the 99 to find 1? | GotQuestions.org
Posted 1-29-26
By Steven Brodsky
… and all of the people who were present when this video was filmed, including Ben Fuller:
And Jesus loves us!
Posted 1-26-26
… Thank God, though, that God is closer than the greatest brother or sister can ever be for those who are God’s friends!
John 15:15: “Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.”
Photo by Steven Brodsky
Proverbs 18:24: “A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.”
Posted 1-16-26
… Everyone includes all of us.
Romans 3:23: “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;”
Praise the Lord for the Savior whose birth many people will celebrate on Christmas Day!
Posted 12-6-25
… will inspire readers of this column to sing like they (those readers) have already won:
Psalm 96:1-3: “O sing unto the Lord a new song: sing unto the Lord, all the earth. Sing unto the Lord, bless his name; shew forth his salvation from day to day. Declare his glory among the heathen, his wonders among all people.”
Posted 11-14-25
… See Psalm 34:18.
Hallelujah when the heartbroken express heartbroken hallelujahs!
And hallelujah for “Heartbroken Hallelujah,” by MercyMe!
Posted 10-26-25
… is told in “A Man Called Norman.”
“A Man Called Norman” was originally broadcast on September 5, 1984.
Links to a “Man Called Norman” first appeared here in 2020.
Relinking to “A Man Called Norman” will be a blessing to readers of this column and others!
Here are the links:
https://www.focusonthefamily.com/episodes/broadcast/a-man-called-norman-part-1-of-2/
https://www.focusonthefamily.com/episodes/broadcast/a-man-called-norman-part-2-of-2/
Posted 10-11-25
… on Christmas Eve, 1968, the crew of Apollo 8 (William Anders, Jim Lovell, and Frank Borman) transmitted a reading of Genesis 1:1-10 KJV.
Many millions of earthlings watched this on Christmas Eve, 1968:
Genesis 1 (KJV) – In the beginning God created
Questions about Genesis/creation? See: Creation | Answers in Genesis.
Posted 10-4-25
This announcement was posted at: Entertainment, Culture and More – delcoculturevultures.com.
From a news release that was issued today, February 23, 2026, by the Friends of the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania:
Strasburg, Lancaster County, PA — You’re right on track for reading and railroading as guest readers share stories about trains, railroads and other amazing people, places and things during the family-friendly Reading On The Rails event at the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania on Saturday, March 7. Reading On The Rails is sponsored by Smilebuilderz For Kidz.
Kids will receive their very own “suitcase” and use it to travel from story to story throughout the day. They can collect a sticker after each story and create their own suitcase design with stickers, crayons and other trimmings. Smilebuilderz For Kidz has supplied toothbrushes and travel-sized toothpastes and AAA Central Penn has supplied colorful luggage tags for the suitcases.
Currently scheduled readers include
Reading On The Rails story times are 10:30 a.m., 11:15 a.m., 11:45 a.m., 1:15 p.m., 2:00 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. and will be held among the historic trains in the Museum’s climate-controlled Rolling Stock Hall.
KPETS, Keystone Pet Enhanced Therapy Services, and Operation Lifesaver will be on hand throughout the day.
Posted 2-23-26, Reposted and revised 3-3-26
… appears in Emily Dickinson’s poem “Dear March—Come in—(1320).”
The poem will appear on your screen upon visiting this page: https://poets.org/poem/dear-march-come-1320.
March draws nigh, opportune for some readers of the Entertainment, Culture and More column to pen a March-related poem, short story, or song.
Readers who are sufficiently prompted by the Emily Dickinson poem (or their calendars) can soon be seeing new March-related writing of their own on their screens and/or writing pads.
Posted 2-25-26
… currently impacting millions of Americans prompt the writing of this brief article, and my wish that “wild solitude” after the current and future storm systems will be associated with satisfying and valuable writing by readers of this column.
Meteorological storms have a way of altering internal and external landscapes, sometimes to the betterment of one’s writing.
“Blizzard,” by William Carlos Williams: Blizzard | The Poetry Foundation.
Be safe.
Posted 2-22-26
… attentively “listening” to those sounds can be valuable.
Walt Whitman was a great listener of the sounds of winter: Sounds of the Winter by Walt Whitman – Poems | Academy of American Poets.
The linked poem will encourage some readers/writers to listen to the sounds of winter.
Posted 1-31-26
Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening | The Poetry Foundation
… may wish that they could stay in those woods longer, and some of them will regret not bringing a pen and pencil to write while inspiration will still be warm.
Ink in a pen and inspiration can freeze on a snowy evening.
I’d better move on!
There are “promises to keep” and “miles to go before I sleep.”
Posted 1-18-26
… is the setting for this poem by Walt Whitman: Patroling Barnegat by Walt Whitman | Poetry Foundation.
The Jersey Shore was accessible to Walt Whitman; he resided in Camden, New Jersey.
Accessible to us is the speaker of the poem’s unencumbered narrative centered on a stormy beach scene.
The narrative seems to reflect the poet’s having been in a heightened state of awareness at a beach during a storm. Mindfulness meditators might recognize that state as “choiceless awareness.”
The poem was originally published in 1880. Thankfully, we’re able to enjoy “Patroling Barnegat” in 2026.
Referencing and reading about the Jersey Shore brings Southside Johnny (John Lyon) to mind.
My best wishes go out to Southside Johnny on his retirement.
Posted 1-9-26
Photo by Steven Brodsky
… can compel rewrites, indeed: https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poetrymagazine/browse?volume=169&issue=5&page=4.
For ourselves and others, we want to capture such communion to whatever extent is possible in writing, don’t we?
Photo by Steven Brodsky
Posted 1-3-26
… Take notice of the first word of “January,” by William Carlos Williams, and the entire 11-line poem: https://poets.org/poem/january-3.
I know writers who find it especially gratifying to write effectively every month despite (and sometimes because of) prevailing winds!
Posted 12-28-25
… The writing of this poem was an expression of Christina Rossetti’s having given her heart to Jesus.
And this Victorian Era poem is a gift to us.
Enjoy: A Christmas Carol | The Poetry Foundation.
Posted 12-25-25
… Listed here:
And a bonus: read writing that may prime your creativity pump by others.
Richard Wilbur’s poem “Year’s End”: https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/43052/years-end-56d221b9e6bd8.
Posted 12-20-25
… pens a letter in John Prine’s song “Christmas In Prison”:
If that song character experiences God-enabled breaking of shackles of sin (perhaps he already has experienced this), you may be able to envision what a letter about that might describe.
You probably can, if you have had that experience.
John 8:36: “If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.”
(Did you know that Paul wrote four epistles while imprisoned? Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon are Paul’s prison epistles.)
https://unshackled.org/on-demand/browse-all-programs/
Posted 12-13-25
… That ceremony took place on December 10, 2016.
It is especially opportune enjoy:
Posted 12-10-25
… can arrive in the form of Christmas cards (those with and those without handwritten messages).
Potentially valuable writing prompts go unnoticed when holiday cards are mindlessly discarded with used gift wrapping paper, boxes, etc.
Writers/readers: will you apprehend those prompts or will they and the cards that contain them get away?
I’m pleased to deliver this link to Ted Kooser’s poem “Christmas Mail” to this page before December 25, 2025: https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/55886/christmas-mail.
Ted Kooser served as the U.S. Poet Laureate from 2004-2006. He was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for poetry in 2005.
Posted 12-6-25
By Steven Brodsky
Photo by Steven Brodsky
… may find the encounter to be serendipitous.
It seems quite possible that a particular encounter with snow served as a writing prompt for the well-known poet Frost. (Yes, it was fun to write snow and Frost in the preceding sentence.)
Dust of Snow | The Poetry Foundation
Posted 12-2-25
Dear readers/writers,
Have you considered epistolary writing as a form for your own work?
I’m thankful that Leonard Cohen had.
Had he not, we’d not have “Famous Blue Raincoat” (one of my favorite Leonard Cohen songs) as an example of very fine epistolary writing.
The song prompts me to fill screen and paper with epistolary writing of my own.
Perhaps it will similarly encourage you.
Sincerely,
S.Brodsky
Posted 11-21-25
… had frequently been occupied by new and old friends (when it was much newer):
Photo by Steven Brodsky
The photo appears here as a writing prompt.
An old song about old friends:
The Simon & Garfunkel song is an old friend to some of this column’s readers.
Posted 11-6-25
… pass away for the speaker of Seamus Heaney’s poem “Death of a Naturalist.”
Many “naturalists” have had a similar experience.
And most would, with sufficient exposure to realities of the natural world.
May we all acquire and retain a sense of wonder in regard to the natural world.
Posted 3-3-26
Photo by Steven Brodsky
… are the subject of this news release that was issued today, February 23, 2026, by the Pennsylvania Game Commission:
GAME COMMISSION MONITORING AVIAN INFLUENZA IN WILD BIRDS
This winter, avian influenza viruses have continued to circulate in wild birds across Pennsylvania, and more birds will be migrating to and through the state in the coming weeks. Strains of highly pathogenic avian influenza virus have been present in Pennsylvania’s wild birds since early 2022.
As migration unfolds, the Pennsylvania Game Commission continues to respond to the outbreak, and is asking the public to report any wild birds observed sick or found dead.
Reports can be phoned in to 1-833-PGC-WILD (1-833-742-9453). Submitting reports allows the Game Commission the opportunity to step in with wildlife-management actions including dispatching sick wild birds, recovering and removing carcasses, pursuing diagnostic testing, and conducting stakeholder outreach. The agency continues to work with the Wildlife Futures Program, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and other partners when deploying these strategies. The most substantial activity this winter involved the removal of an estimated 2,000 wild bird carcasses, predominantly snow geese, from a quarry in Northampton County in December and January.
“Over the past five years, Game Commission dispatchers and field personnel, along with our dedicated partners, have worked tirelessly to respond to and investigate suspected highly pathogenic avian influenza events across the Commonwealth,” said the agency’s wildlife veterinarian, Dr. Andrew Di Salvo. “Responding to every report received from the public is neither logistically possible nor in the best interest of the wildlife, so incidents are prioritized to ensure our actions will have the most impact. High-priority incidents include cases with clear human or domestic animal exposure, a public site, such as a park or playground, that could pose an exposure risk to humans or domestic animals, or a large number of sick or dead wildlife on the landscape that could pose an exposure risk to scavenging wildlife.”
Waterfowl – from wood ducks and pintails to snow geese and tundra swans – have been bottled up farther south by cold weather and frozen conditions here. Timing is important for these and other birds returning to their breeding grounds because arriving late means delayed nesting. But they also can’t make the demanding journey if food and resting areas along their route are too hard to come by, as happens when conditions are harsh. As Pennsylvania continues to thaw out, though, migrating birds will begin showing up.
Snow geese often come to mind when talking about migration because they flock in large numbers and attract much attention when they come through Pennsylvania on their way to the Arctic. The Game Commission’s Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area, on the border of Lebanon and Lancaster counties, is a key stop for migrating snow geese, in some years hosting more than 100,000 of them. Snow geese have just begun showing up at Middle Creek, and more will follow.
Wild birds are natural carriers of avian influenza viruses and bird migration enables the disease to be spread over vast distances. The disease also can be spread by legal and illegal movement of infected birds, poultry products, contaminated materials, equipment and vehicles if appropriate biosecurity precautions are not taken.
Aside from waterfowl and shorebirds, avian influenza viruses can significantly impact wild poultry such as turkeys and grouse, raptors such as hawks and eagles, and other avian scavengers, such as crows and ravens. Birds infected with highly pathogenic avian influenza can exhibit neurologic signs, such as swimming or walking in circles, tilting their heads in an unnatural position, tremoring, seizing or having difficulty flying.
Infected birds shed the virus in their feces and saliva, and the disease can impact other mammals, including humans. The public should avoid contacting wild birds or their feces. The Game Commission does not advise that the public handle any abnormal, injured, sick or dead wildlife unless authorized to do so.
Waterfowl and upland bird hunters are encouraged to continue participating in open seasons, but should take precautions while handling and dressing birds. These include wearing nitrile gloves, protective eye wear, and a mask. Following any hunt, make it a point to practice good hygiene, including washing hands and any clothing used in the process of dressing game that may contain blood or feces. Also never handle wildlife that is sick or displaying signs of sickness. Instead, report it to the Game Commission. Hunting dogs can also be protected from the virus by preventing them from contracting or consuming wild bird feces or environmental water that may contain bird feces, and preventing them from contacting sick or found dead wild birds (i.e., non-harvested).
Good hygiene is also recommended in maintaining backyard birdfeeders. While avian influenza typically does not affect bird species that frequent birdfeeders – and there’s no prohibition on feeding birds during the outbreak – birdfeeders and bird baths should be emptied every couple of weeks, washed with soapy water, rinsed, then disinfected with a 10% household bleach solution before refilling (either allow a 10-minute contact time before rinsing or allow to air dry). Any spilled seed should also be cleaned up to mitigate disease spread.
If noticing multiple sick or dead birds over a short period of time, taking feeders down and emptying bird baths helps ensure a potential outbreak is not made worse.
Pennsylvanians who raise captive wild birds, domestic backyard poultry, or are involved in commercial poultry operations, meanwhile, should review their biosecurity plans to protect their flocks. The USDA offers free biosecurity information on its website.
Any sick or dead domestic birds should be reported to Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture at 717-772-2852. If you have had contact with sick or dead birds and are not feeling well, contact your primary care physician or the Pennsylvania Department of Health at 877-724-3258.
And everyone should always observe wildlife from a safe distance, avoid contacting surfaces that may be contaminated with feces from wild or domestic birds, and refrain from handling wildlife unless you are hunting, trapping, or otherwise authorized to do so.
More information about avian influenza is available through the Game Commission’s website.
Posted 2-23-26
… Video footage from today’s trout stocking at Opossum Lake, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania:
From a Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) news release:
February 17, 2026
PFBC Begins Annual Trout Stocking Operations Ahead of Spring Fishing Season
If you love trout fishing, there was a sure sign of spring today, as annual trout stocking operations got underway ahead of Pennsylvania’s spring trout season! Opossum Lake in Cumberland County received the first stocking of the year, which included cutting a hole into the ice with a chainsaw. This year, the Fish and Boat Commission, with the help of volunteers, will stock 3.2 million trout into 684 streams and 130 lakes. Trout stocking occurs in all 67 counties.
The most common species being stocked is Rainbow Trout, but anglers will also have the chance to catch Brown Trout, Brook Trout, and golden Rainbow Trout.
All waters managed as Stocked Trout Waters are now closed until 8 a.m. on the Opening Day of Trout Season on Saturday, April 4, with the exception of Mentored Youth Trout Day on Saturday, March 28th.
For the 2026 trout stocking schedule, regulations, and more information on trout fishing, visit Fishandboat.com.
Posted 2-17-26
Photo by Steven Brodsky
… is stated in Isaiah 40:8: “The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever.”
Posted 2-11-26
… Graduation was on January 31, 2026.
The graduates completed 44 weeks of intensive training, including 10 weeks of field training. They are now working as Pennsylvania State Game Wardens in their newly assigned districts.
From a February 9, 2026 Pennsylvania Game Commission news release about the 37th Class of the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s Ross Leffler School of Conservation:
“Every one of these graduates is embarking on a demanding journey and the beginning of a lifelong commitment to service, conservation and duty,” said Col. Richard Danley, Director of the Game Commission’s Bureau of Wildlife Protection. “Becoming a Pennsylvania Game Warden is a calling to protect wildlife and to serve the people of Pennsylvania, even when the work is unseen, difficult, or dangerous.”
Training School Director Kyle Jury praised graduates for their dedication and demonstrated commitment to our natural resources.
“These 24 new graduates now embark on their careers as State Game Wardens by serving in geographical districts across the Commonwealth,” Jury said. “By pursuing this career path, they fulfill an instrumental part of the agency’s continued and dedicated effort to wildlife conservation. Having these individuals join the ranks of game wardens will strengthen the agency’s efforts to safeguard the hunting heritage the Game Commission was founded on so that it can be passed on to future generations.”
In 1930, Ross Leffler, then president of the Pennsylvania Board of Game Commissioners, proposed the establishment of a training school for game protectors, as game wardens then were called. When the training school opened its doors in 1932, in Brockway, Jefferson County, it was the first such conservation officer training school in the world and served as a model for other states.
From 1932 until 1935, the Ross Leffler School of Conservation offered in-service training for game protectors. The school became a permanent facility until 1986, when it was moved to the agency’s Harrisburg headquarters.
Posted 2-11-26
… you’ll probably very much enjoy the Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s “Best Bird Cams Highlights of 2025” video.
Entertainment, Culture and More readers will find themselves saying “ooh” as they watch the 4:59 video from the comfort of their nests (homes).
Nests are featured in a 12-line poem that you can read at: Choices | The Poetry Foundation.
Posted 1-19-26
The Pennsylvania Game Commission issued this news release on January 6, 2026:
REPORT WILD TURKEY FLOCKS THROUGH MACH 15
The Game Commission is asking for the public’s help finding turkey flocks for ongoing research.
Pennsylvanians are encouraged to report the location of any turkey flocks they see across the state. Information is being collected online at https://pgcforms.pa.gov/TurkeySightingSurvey now through March 15.
Among other things, visitors to that webpage are asked to provide the date of the sighting, the location and the type of land (public, private or unknown) where birds are seen.
Game Commission crews will assess sites for the potential to trap turkeys. Just like the last six winters, the Game Commission will put leg bands on male turkeys statewide. Turkeys will not be moved; they’ll simply be leg-banded and released on site.
Trapping turkeys during winter is part of the Game Commission’s ongoing population monitoring.
Hunters who harvest these banded turkeys, or people who find one dead, are asked to report the band number, either by calling toll-free or reporting it online.
“By reporting banded turkeys, hunters provide us with important information on harvest rates for our population model,” said Reina Tyl, the Game Commission’s wild turkey biologist. “In return, the hunter gets to learn when and approximately where the turkey was banded. If the turkey was banded the first winter after it hatched, we can also provide the hunter with an exact age of the turkey they harvested.”
While no turkeys will be fitted with transmitters this winter, as the research projects that were tracking turkeys to get an in-depth look into their survival, productivity and movement are coming to an end, males will continue to be banded in the winter to monitor harvest rates.
Finding birds to trap is key to accomplishing the work. That’s where the public comes in. Fortunately, Pennsylvanians have a history of helping in this way.
Tyl said participation in the Winter Turkey Sighting Survey has been extremely useful for locating trappable flocks over the past four winters.
“The public has been so helpful. Some landowners who reported flocks on their property have also helped with monitoring flock activity and have participated in trapping,” Tyl said. “We look forward to continuing this collaboration this winter.”
Posted 1-8-26
… He was and his knowledge was renowned, as revealed in 1 Kings 4:29-34.
You’ll find those Bible verses on this page: 1 Kings 4 (KJV) – So king Solomon was king.
Photo by Steven Brodsky
Posted 1-6-26
… as was announced today in this news release from the Brandywine Conservancy:
Chadds Ford, PA, December 3, 2025 — The Brandywine Conservancy announced today that the 95th running of the Radnor Hunt Races, taking place on May 16, 2026, will mark the organization’s final year as the sole operator and beneficiary of this event, which the Brandywine has led for the past 45 years. The Brandywine is committed to working closely with the leadership of the Radnor Hunt to help them identify a new operator and work on a transition plan to ensure that the Races continue to thrive for decades to come.
“The Radnor Hunt Races have been a beloved springtime tradition on the Main Line for nearly a century—long before the Brandywine became the sole operator and beneficiary of the Races in 1980—and one that we hope will continue long after Brandywine’s involvement,” said Virginia Logan, the Frolic Weymouth Executive Director & C.E.O. of the Brandywine Conservancy & Museum of Art. “For the last 45 years, the Brandywine has been proud to play a leadership role in this storied event, which has benefited the Conservancy’s open space and clean water initiatives. With the centennial running of the Races approaching in a few years, it is now time for the Brandywine to pass the baton on to a new operator to continue the tradition of the Radnor Hunt Races into the event’s next century. While the 95th anniversary of the Races will mark the Brandywine’s final operation of the event in May 2026, we remain proud of the role we have played in stewarding this event for more than four decades and the lasting legacy of ‘Racing for Open Space’ that we will carry forward. We are deeply grateful for the leadership team and all members of the Radnor Hunt, the National Steeplechase Association, our committee members, sponsors, partners, race staff and officials, volunteers, thoroughbred owners and trainers, jockeys, and spectators who have supported this event over the years. We look to make our last year operating the Races the best one yet, and we hope to see this event continue to grow in its next chapter.”
Built on a rich history of horse racing that has been cultivated in this region for nearly 100 years, the Radnor Hunt Races have been supported by the legacy of protecting the stunning open spaces that make this region such a beautiful place to call home. With the help of the Races and many likeminded partners, the Conservancy has protected over 70,700 acres of open space to date—including the Radnor Hunt racecourse itself and surrounding lands—and continues to improve and safeguard water quality, land protection, outdoor recreation and historic preservation in southeastern Pennsylvania and northern Delaware.
“We were saddened to learn that 2026 will be the last year with Brandywine Conservancy as operator and sole beneficiary of the Radnor Hunt Races, and it will be our honor to partner with them for their 45th and final year,” said Jodi Spragins, Radnor Hunt President. “We recognize that this was a challenging decision, and we want to express our profound gratitude for the incredible effort Brandywine has dedicated to nurturing the Radnor Hunt Races into the prestigious event it is today. Our two organizations share a strong partnership and a mutual passion for the role of equestrian sport in land conservation. In light of this transition, Radnor Hunt leadership will begin exploring ways to reimagine and continue this historic springtime event.”
“The Brandywine Conservancy has been proud to play a leading role in the Radnor Hunt Races for the past 45 years of the event’s nearly 100-year history, and we look forward to making this last year our best one yet,” said George Strawbridge Jr., chair of the Radnor Hunt Races committee. “On behalf of the Radnor Hunt Races committee, we wish the event continued success in its next chapter and remain committed to working with the Radnor Hunt leadership team over this next year to help provide a smooth transition to the successor of the Races.”
The Radnor Hunt Races are traditionally held annually on the third Saturday of May each year. With nearly 18 months of advanced notice prior to the 96th running of the Races in 2027, the Brandywine is hopeful that there will be ample time for the leadership of the Radnor Hunt to identify an alternative operator. Brandywine remains committed to helping the Radnor Hunt and any new operator for the event with a successful transition plan. Those interested in taking over the operation of the Races can contact the Radnor Hunt directly at gm@radnorhunt.org.
Planning efforts for the 95th running of the Radnor Hunt Races are underway, with corporate sponsorship and advertising opportunities now available. Held on May 16, 2026, this year’s event will celebrate both the remarkable history of the Races and Brandywine’s 45 years of partnership. Tickets will go on sale beginning March 3, 2026, with proceeds benefiting the Brandywine Conservancy. To date, the event has raised more than $5.5 million to date for the Conservancy’s open space and clean water initiatives. In addition to the jump races sanctioned by the National Steeplechase Association, special events throughout the day will include the annual Katherine W. Illoway Invitational Sidesaddle Race, pony races, a spectacular antique carriage parade, and the much-loved parade of foxhounds. Those interested in learning more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities can visit www.radnorhuntraces.org, or contact the Brandywine at radnorhuntraces@brandywine.org or 610.388.8104.
About the Brandywine Conservancy:
The Brandywine Conservancy protects water, conserves land, and engages communities. The Conservancy uses a multi-faceted approach to conservation. Staff work with private landowners who wish to see their lands protected forever and provide innovative community planning services to municipalities and other governmental agencies. The Conservancy currently holds more than 510 conservation and agricultural easements and has facilitated the permanent preservation of over 70,700 acres of land. The Conservancy is a program of the Brandywine Conservancy & Museum of Art.
About the Brandywine Conservancy & Museum of Art:
The Brandywine Conservancy & Museum of Art preserves and promotes the natural and cultural connections between the area’s beautiful landscape, historic sites, and important artists. The Conservancy protects the lands and waters throughout the Brandywine Valley and other priority conservation areas, developing sustainable approaches to emerging needs and assuring preservation of majestic open spaces and protection of natural resources for generations to come. The Museum of Art presents and collects historic and contemporary works of American art, engaging and exciting visitors of all ages through an array of exhibitions and programs. The Brandywine unites the inspiring experiences of art and nature, enhancing the quality of life in its community and among its diverse audiences.
Posted 12-3-25
A spectacular oak tree
Photo by Steven Brodsky
… The album, released on January 11, 1971, would go on to be in the number one position on that chart for a total of nine weeks.
From Pearl, Janis Joplin’s recording of the Kris Kristofferson-penned “Me and Bobby McGee”:
Janis Joplin passed away on October 4, 1970 at age 27.
Posted 2-27-26
… to recognize the verity indicated by the double negative in this song’s title, and by the inclusion of the title’s words in the dialogue of the song’s speaker/character:
Though “I Don’t Think Much About Her No More” has no connection to Valentine’s Day, I’ll make a tie-in here to the upcoming unofficial holiday.
It’s easy to surmise that the song’s speaker/character could find Valentine’s Day to be especially difficult.
Same for many others.
It’s not always kind to wish people: “Happy Valentine’s Day.” These words can be hurtful to some people who won’t be having a happy Valentine’s Day.
Let’s be kind.
Posted 2-7-26
… Steve Earle was born on January 17, 1955.
Steve Earle’s birthday is especially opportune to revisit (or visit, if you haven’t been there before) “Copperhead Road” via this video:
Posted 1-17-26
… when a song exceptionally and effectively conveys an emotionally charged inflection point.
That kind of magic kind is evident in “This Magic Moment,” a song penned by Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman.
The Drifters recorded “This Magic Moment” on December 23, 1959, 66 years ago, with Ben E. King singing lead.
In commemoration of that recording session, enjoy the magic:
Posted 12-23-25
By Steven Brodsky
… left over from Thanksgiving will have many of us “on the run” to refrigerators over the next couple of days.
Some (in the spirit of Thanksgiving) will be appreciative of having cooked and refrigerated turkey that’s left over from Thanksgiving. (I’d probably be more appreciative of left over pumpkin pie.)
“Cold turkey” has an entirely different meaning in this song:
Posted 11-27-25
… is sufficient time for readers of the Entertainment, Culture and More column to enjoy this recording of “Alice’s Restaurant Massacree” in its entirety:
Some radio stations have a tradition of airing the recording on Thanksgiving Day.
We don’t have to wait for Thanksgiving Day to enjoy “Alice’s Restaurant Massacree”!
Arlo Guthrie recorded “Alice’s Restaurant Massacree” in 1967.
Posted 11-20-25
… and how people feel.
This post originally appeared at: Conversations About Faith – delcoculturevultures.com.
Posted 10-22-25, Revised and Reposted 11-8-25
… happy birthday wishes go out to Art Garfunkel!
Art Garfunkel was born on November 5, 1941 in New York City.
Posted 11-5-25
… are being shared here today on the 58th anniversary of the release of a beloved rock album.
The album: Disraeli Gears.
The band: Cream.
Disraeli Gears was Cream’s second studio album.
Disraeli Gears was released on November 2, 1967.
From Disraeli Gears:
Posted 11-2-25
… Daylight saving time ends on November 2, 2025 at 2:00 a.m.; clocks will fall back an hour in most of the U.S.
And time may be on your mind today.
Posted 11-1-25
… memories related to literal and metaphorical cold fingers come to mind.
I’m acquainted with the discomfort of literal (very) cold fingers, having experienced fingers-numbing conditions while ice fishing, snow shoveling, etc.
And I’m not lacking experience with metaphorical cold fingers.
Most of us can recall personal experiences with cold fingers.
Whatever our experiences have been or are with cold fingers, we can be grateful that Bill Morrissey addressed the cold fingers theme with great artistry and vulnerability:
Posted 10-27-25
Enjoy:
Servant Stage Company’s production of You Can’t Take It With You opens on March 6, 2026. The performance run will end on March 22, 2026.
Performances will take place at Lancaster Alliance Church, 210 Pitney Road, Lancaster, PA 17601.
Visit https://servantstage.org/shows/2026/youcanttakeitwithyou for additional information about the show and a link to order your pay-what-you-will tickets.
Posted 2-26-26
… That additional performance has been scheduled for Thursday, March 19, 2026 at 7 p.m.
A recommendation for Entertainment, Culture and More column readers who haven’t yet ordered pay-what-you-will tickets for a performance of this Servant Stage Company production: order your tickets a.s.a.p.
Servant Stage’s You Can’t Take It With You opens on March 6, 2026. The performance run will end on March 22, 2026.
Performances will take place at Lancaster Alliance Church, 210 Pitney Road, Lancaster, PA 17601.
Visit https://servantstage.org/shows/2026/youcanttakeitwithyou for additional information and a link to order tickets.
Posted 2-19-26
Photo courtesy of Servant Stage Company
From a Servant Stage Company news release that was issued yesterday, February 11, 2026:
Lancaster, PA – Servant Stage is delighted to present the classic American comedy You Can’t Take It With You, opening March 6th at Lancaster Alliance Church, 210 Pitney Road, Lancaster. Written by George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart in 1936, this Pulitzer Prize-winning comedy is a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud celebration of family, love, and laughter.
Set in 1930s New York, You Can’t Take It With You introduces audiences to the delightfully eccentric Sycamore family—an exuberant household of artists, inventors, dancers, and dreamers who have happily embraced a life free from convention. When their daughter Alice invites her very traditional Wall Street-employed fiancée and his straitlaced parents to dinner, the evening quickly spirals into comic chaos as two vastly different worlds collide.
Directed by Rachel Day Hughes, this Servant Stage production leans into the play’s heart and humor, highlighting its enduring message. Nearly a century after its debut, You Can’t Take It With You remains a timely reminder to slow down, laugh often, and focus on what truly matters.
In keeping with Servant Stage’s mission to make outstanding live theatre accessible to everyone, all performances of You Can’t Take It With You will be offered on a pay-what-you-will basis. This unique approach allows audiences of all ages and backgrounds to experience exceptional theatre regardless of financial means.
Performances will be held March 6-22 in the auditorium at Lancaster Alliance Church, 210 Pitney Road, Lancaster. Tickets can be reserved online at ServantStage.org or by calling (717) 455-0255. Advance reservations are recommended to ensure seating before shows sell out.
Performance Schedule:
About Servant Stage:
Servant Stage is a non-profit theater serving Lancaster County since 2011. Through its innovative approach to theatre, Servant Stage reaches more than 50,000 audience members each year with Pay-What-You-Will performances. They recently announced their 2026 season of shows, including You Can’t Take It With You (March), A Broadway Melody (April-May), Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (June-August), Anne of Green Gables (September), and Joy to the World (November-December).
Posted 2-12-26
Enjoy “Down At The Borderline”:
From a news release:
NASHVILLE, TN – February 13, 2026 – The guitar on the cover of Down At The Borderline says everything about the fourth installment in Vince Gill‘s 50 Years From Home EP series on MCA.
It’s a white 1953 Fender Telecaster that Gill bought for $450 in 1978 from Del City Music in his native Oklahoma, and it’s been Gill‘s main guitar ever since. “It’s real special,” he remarks. “I’ve got several other old Fender Telecasters, but that one just suits my hands, suits my ears. Everything about it is kind of a huge part of my entire catalog of playing guitar over all these years.” Testifying to that status is the worn finish on the guitar’s body.
Instruments featured on the cover of each EP are from Gill’s personal collection. For Down At The Borderline he chose his iconic 1953 Telecaster.
It’s appropriate, then, that the six new songs on Down At The Borderline, as well as “Liza Jane” from his 1991 album Pocket Full Of Gold, feature plenty of six-string rockin’ and more of an uptempo demeanor than its three 50 Years From Home predecessors. “There’s a little more zip on this EP,” Gill agrees, “some more guitar playing. Some of the earlier EPs have been singer-songwriter songs, not a ton of whittling around on the guitar. These songs are fun to stretch out a little bit on and just play some guitar.”
Down At The Borderline leads off with its title track, a rockin’, Cajun-flavored tune co-written with Liz Rose about a joint in Thibodaux, Louisiana where “they play the Zydeco and wrestle alligators,” with a sawdust floor and a shuffleboard table, as well as a matron, Mable, who keeps “a loaded pistol in her beehive hair.” The female voice on the song, meanwhile, is none other than country superstar Lainey Wilson, a proud native of Baskin, Louisiana. “Once I set it in Thibodaux I asked Lainey to come sing on it. She graciously said yes, and she killed it!,” Gill says. “I didn’t know if she’d be up for that; it’s hard to get somebody when they’re knocking it out of the park like she is, but she did, and I love the sound of our voices together.”
“Releasing a song with Vince Gill is truly a dream come true,” states Wilson. “I’ve had the chance to get to know him over the past few years and share the stage together, so being able to finally make music together means the world to me.”
Gill wrote “Never Saw It Coming” with Stephan Hogan, who he met while judging a guitar contest in Los Angeles. They stayed in touch, and when Hogan moved to Nashville, Gill invited him to do some songwriting together. “He’s very talented. I’m gonna root for him,” says Gill.
Gill has been carrying the Bakersfield-flavored “Pink Cadillac” with him since 2023. He owns a red 1973 Cadillac Coupe de Ville himself but had no problem taking a little creative license with the song. “On some of these songs I’m not trying to write War and Peace or anything; they’re just fun,” he explains. “Not every song needs to be serious.”
The chugging “Come Back” is another co-write, with Harper O’Neil. “She’s a young artist who’s incredible,” Gill says, “a great, soulful singer who’s starting to make some noise in town.” The song is marked by what he calls a “brainiac move” by fellow guitarist Tom Bukovac; “The solo that happens was Tom, and I wound up playing an octave higher and then a harmony to that. That’s a great-feeling track.”
The slow-paced tear-jerker “Love Died” is a collaboration with longtime friends the Warren Brothers and upstart Preston Cooper. Wendy Moten sings on the track as well, much to Gill‘s delight; “It’s some of the best singing you’ll ever hear when she cuts loose.”
Gill revs things back up for “Whole Lot of Cowboy Left in Me,” a rocking and defiant statement of purpose that features CMA Musician of the Year Paul Franklin’s stone country steel guitar. “I’m not much of a cowboy,” Gill, who co-wrote the song with Josh Thompson, fesses up. “I’ve got some boots and all, but I’ve never done much horseback riding or any of that stuff.
Nevertheless, he convincingly captures the authentic character of the song’s narrator. “I understand it very well. I grew up in Oklahoma; that’s where the National Finals Rodeo was held every year, before they moved it to Vegas. My family grew up on farms, and I played in so many honky tonks, so many bars, and I’ve been around so many of those characters. So, it was natural for me to write about ‘em.”
It’s appropriate that Down At The Borderline would close with Gill’s guitar-slinging 1991 hit “Liza Jane.” This EP follows the previous 50 Years From Home volumes I Gave You Everything I Had, Secondhand Smoke, and Brown’s Diner Bar.
Gill recently announced dates for his upcoming summer tour, which culminates in a 6-night residency at the historic Ryman Auditorium. He will continue to tour with the Eagles as well. Last month it was announced that Gill will be awarded the Ken Burns American Heritage Prize, an honor presented by American Prairie. He was also recently presented with the CMA Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award. Complete tour information available HERE.
Posted 2-13-26
…The 2026 Ken Burns American Prize will be presented to Vince Gill by American Prairie “in celebration of the indomitable American spirit.”
Congratulations to Vince Gill!
The naming of Vince Gill for this honor was announced yesterday in the following news release:
| NASHVILLE – January 15, 2026 — American Prairie is proud to announce that Grammy Award® winner and Country Music Hall of Famer Vince Gill, one of the most celebrated musicians and songwriters in American history, has been named the recipient of the 2026 Ken Burns American Heritage Prize. Gill will be formally honored May 6, 2026.
Named in honor of America’s most revered visual historian and filmmaker, the Ken Burns American Heritage Prize was created by American Prairie to recognize individuals whose achievements have advanced our collective understanding of America’s heritage and the indomitable American spirit of our people. Nominees for the annual Prize consist of visionary artists, authors, educators, filmmakers, historians, and scientists. The candidates are chosen by a National Jury of distinguished leaders who represent communities across the country and share a common appreciation of America’s heritage. Past Prize recipients include David McCullough, Maya Lin, N. Scott Momaday, Wynton Marsalis, Jimmy Chin, Kristine McDivitt Tompkins, and Sylvia Earle. Gill’s career spans more than four decades and reflects a rare combination of musical excellence, humility, and authenticity. His songs—marked by emotional honesty, masterful musicianship, and deep respect for tradition—have become part of the fabric of American life. “Vince Gill is most deserving of this prize, and he represents the enduring power of American music to tell us who we are,” said Ken Burns, award-winning filmmaker and namesake of the Prize. “Like the prairie itself, his songs are shaped by patience, humility, and a deep respect for the people. I know what it is to be formed by the spirit of a place—how it asks you to listen closely, to honor what came before, and to submit, in the best sense of the word, to something larger than yourself. Vince has done this throughout his life and work, and in doing so, he has given us a truer understanding of our shared American heritage.” Gill’s lifelong reverence for American roots music, combined with his generosity as a collaborator and mentor, has made him a unifying figure across genres and generations. From bluegrass and country to gospel and rock, his influence reaches far beyond charts and awards, embodying the enduring power of music as a shared national language. One of the most popular artists in modern country music, Gill achieved his big breakthrough in 1990 with “When I Call Your Name,” which won both the Country Music Association’s (CMA) Single and Song of the Year awards as well as a Grammy Award® for Best Country Vocal Performance, Male. In total, Gill has won 18 CMA Awards, 22 Grammy Awards®, and 8 Academy of Country Music Awards. In 2025, he was presented with the CMA Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award, which is awarded to an iconic artist who has historically contributed to the growth of the Country Music genre. Prior to that in 2009, he was given the President’s Merit Award from the Recording Academy recognizing Gill’s significant contributions to music and shaping of the culture. American Heritage Prize is an incredible honor and what inspiring company to be in,” said Vince Gill upon learning about his selection. “The work American Prairie is doing to preserve America’s Great Plains is invaluable, and I’m grateful to be able to contribute to their efforts in any way I can. Over the years I have had the opportunity to collaborate and become good friends with Ken, and that in itself has been a great experience. This new relationship is one I’m very much looking forward to.” An exceptionally talented songwriter, Gill’s compositions earned him entry into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2005 and in 2014 the prestigious BMI Icon for his indelible influence on generations of music makers. Throughout his career, he has released 21 albums, sold over 30 million albums, and charted 45 singles. In 2022, Gill was inducted into the Musicians’ Hall of Fame. In 2017, Gill was asked to join the Eagles on tour and continues to be a part of that historic band. 2025 marked the 50th anniversary of Gill leaving home to pursue a music career. To honor that milestone, he signed a lifetime contract with his record label, MCA, and is releasing an EP series of brand-new music every month for a year, titled 50 Years From Home. In 2026, American Prairie celebrates 25 years as a 100% donor-funded organization working to connect, conserve, and share Montana’s Northern Great Plains – one of the last remaining temperate grasslands in the world. Grasslands are a vital yet vanishing biome and they play a huge role in our planet’s health. Across the globe, less than 2% of temperate grasslands have been permanently conserved, making them the least protected biome on Earth. American Prairie’s strategy is simple: we purchase private land to strategically connect fragmented public lands, creating a collaboratively managed network of protected prairie. Each new land acquisition creates critical wildlife corridors and ensures the longevity and biodiversity of a vital biome. |
| About American Prairie
American Prairie’s vision is to create a vast and collaboratively managed prairie destination that serves as a fully functioning ecosystem for wildlife, and offers visitors permanent access to the landscape that shaped our nation’s character. American Prairie offers visitors an opportunity to learn about and connect with nature on a truly grand scale. Learn more at americanprairie.org. About Ken Burns Ken Burns has been making documentary films for almost 50 years. Since the Academy® Award-nominated Brooklyn Bridge in 1981, Ken has gone on to direct and produce some of the most acclaimed historical documentaries ever made, including The Civil War, Baseball, Jazz, The War, The National Parks: America’s Best Idea, Prohibition, The Roosevelts: An Intimate History, The Vietnam War, Country Music, The U.S. and the Holocaust, The American Buffalo, Leonardo da Vinci; and most recently, The American Revolution. Future film projects include Emancipation to Exodus, and LBJ & the Great Society, among others. Ken’s films have been honored with dozens of major awards, including 17 Emmy® Awards, two GRAMMY Awards, and two Oscar nominations. In September of 2008, at the News & Documentary Emmy® Awards, Ken was honored by the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences with a Lifetime Achievement Award. In November of 2022, Ken was inducted into the Television Academy Hall of Fame. About Vince Gill One of the most popular artists in modern country music, Vince Gill is famous for his top-notch songwriting, world-class guitar playing, and warm, soaring tenor, all wrapped up in a quick and easy wit. Gill achieved his big breakthrough in 1990 with “When I Call Your Name,” which won both the Country Music Association’s (CMA) Single and Song of the Year awards as well as a Grammy Award® for Best Country Vocal Performance, Male. In total, Gill has won 18 CMA Awards, 22 Grammy Awards®, 8 Academy of Country Music Awards, and in 2025, he was presented with the CMA Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award. In 1991, Gill was invited to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry, and in 2007, was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. In 2012, he was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. A gifted songwriter, Gill’s compositions earned him entry into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2005 and the prestigious BMI Icon award in 2014. Throughout his career, he has released 21 albums, sold over 30 million albums, and charted 45 singles. In 2022, Gill was inducted into the Musicians’ Hall of Fame. Always considering himself a musician above all else, Gill has been a part of some iconic bands, including Pure Prairie League, The Notorious Cherry Bombs, and The Time Jumpers. In 2017, Gill was asked to join the Eagles on the road, and he continues to be a part of that historic band’s tour. 2025 marked the 50th anniversary of Gill leaving home to pursue a music career. To honor that milestone, he signed a lifetime contract with his record label, MCA, and is releasing an EP series of brand-new music every month for a year, titled 50 Years From Home. |
Posted 1-16-26
… who passed away eighteen years ago on December 16, 2007, with a song of his that succinctly and effectively conveys liquefying of emotion with these words: “the snow turned into rain”:
On or near Christmas and New Year’s Eve, many people will experience liquefying of emotion (regardless of external weather conditions).
Posted 12-16-25
… Harry Chapin was born on December 7, 1942.
In commemoration of Harry Chapin’s birthday, let’s listen to the highly empathetic portrayals of the song characters in “A Better Place to Be”:
Harry Chapin passed away on July 16, 1981 at 38 years of age as the result of a car accident.
Posted 12-7-25
… Happy birthday wishes go out to Paul Simon!
Paul Simon was born on October 13, 1941.
In little towns and elsewhere, songs penned by Paul Simon have deeply resonated with many of us for decades.
Posted 10-13-25
Firewood
Photo by Steven Brodsky
… will be experienced by some people this time of year.
Primal is the need for “warmth” on cold autumn and winter nights.
We last visited Warren and Warren’s wife last heating season via: Bill Morrissey – Birches.
Hopefully, Warren’s wife will find herself comfortably “warm” in the coming months.
Posted 10-5-25
Marie Diamond, a leading Western Feng Shui expert, is the woman Hollywood quietly turns to when they want things to work. Her celebrity clients include Steven Spielberg, Jodie Foster, Jason Bateman, and Paula Abdul. Her real gift is making Feng Shui feel modern, practical, and surprisingly fun.
With more than 30 million views across Instagram (@mariediamondofficial) and three decades of global impact, Marie is redefining Feng Shui for mainstream audiences by translating an often misunderstood practice into clear, actionable guidance that delivers real results. Her new book, Your Home Is a Vision Board (Hay House), is centered on manifestation, intention-setting, and the idea that your space may be quietly helping or blocking your goals.
After a near-death experience as a teenager, Marie made it her mission to help people align their surroundings with their potential. Marie shows how small shifts in your home, desk, or bedroom can unlock momentum in love, career, health, and confidence.
Post expires at 10:54am on Sunday March 15th, 2026
Today, Norcast Media reaches over 2 million people a month with hyper-local forecasts, and streaming weather content. From his custom-built home studio, Nick turned his community-first weather updates into a profitable digital business that’s reimagining how local news can thrive in the creator economy.
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Today, Norcast Media reaches over 2 million people a month with hyper-local forecasts, and streaming weather content. From his custom-built home studio, Nick turned his community-first
Now he has written a book, Rain Date, a deeply personal story about turning one his life’s darkest storms into new beginnings and success.
It’s available here: Rain Date: Unpredictable Lessons from My Life Forecasting the Weather: Pittman, Nick: 9781637748381: Amazon.com: Books
Post expires at 11:35am on Monday March 30th, 2026
Louisa May Alcott began her novel Little Women in 1868 under pressure. She did not want to write about girls and especially not boring “moral pap”, however she caved in to her publisher’s demand for a story for little girls in order to support her sisters and mother because her father could not. What Alcott did do was to base her ‘girls’ story on her own siblings. The characters, Meg (based on Alcott’s sister Anna who wanted married life, wonderfully brought to being on stage by Minou Pourshariati!), Beth (Alcott’s sister Elizabeth who passed at age 23 from scarlet fever, sweetly portrayed by Olive Gallagher), Jo (a tom-boy based on Alcott herself, played with plucky perfection by Marissa Emerson ) and Amy (Alcott’s headstrong sister May, done with superb spunk by Jameka Monet Wilson), and of course Marmee (their mother, tenderly rendered by Emily-Grace Murray), became some of the most beloved of the era.
Alcott’s enduring realistic, imperfect, squabbling family tale is yet in print, has been translated into numerous languages, made into films, theatrical productions and produced for television.
L to R: Leo Mock , Marissa Emerson, Minou Pourshariati, Emily Grace, Murray Jameka, Monet Wilson and James Arthel Reilly
The first stage play, written by Marian de Forest, was produced with the permission of the Alcott family in 1912 on Broadway’s Playhouse Theatre. A number of other theatrical renditions of the book have since been produced. Playwright Kate Hamill’s ‘Little Women’ explores feminist and gender perspectives, strengthening Alcott’s Victorian era introduction of strong female roles, and being yourself, even taking it further. There is also the sense of Wilder’s ‘Our Town’, of times gone by that can’t be reclaimed except in memory and affection. This sense was augmented by sinuous musical scene changes, accompanied by adaptive lighting (Lily Fossner). Amazingly agile actors, who also play various instruments (Musical Direction by Matthew Mastronardi), as well as the essential support of the production team and crew create an aura of times past, yet manage to strike a chord upon issues of today.
Just in time for the Holiday Season, ‘Little Women’ reminds us of family – while not perfect, yet loved and prized… AND, there is a small bonus finale concert with Christmas Carols and more!
LITTLE WOMEN by Kate Hamill
Adapted from the novel by Louisa May Alcott
Remaining shows run December 4th – December 28th
Tickets at https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?show=294555 or call 610-565-4211
Hedgerow Theatre 64 Rose Valley Rd., Media PA 19063
