A Sangria Story

What has happened to Sangria? When did restaurants begin to dilute it with citrus flavored soda? I was appalled last night when I was served Sangria that tasted like soda pop. The standard recipe for Sangria includes good red wine, slices and juice of lemons and oranges, some Triple Sec, some brandy, and cut up apple. I discussed this with the waitress, who brought it to the attention of the bartender. He said that his recipe included Sprite! We had a pleasant chat with the manager, who admitted that their recipe was changed in August. So much for Sangria in that restaurant. Corporate has done it again.....

Goodbye to Broadway Voices

Last Monday, September 8th, my last Broadway Voices aired for the season. I enjoyed doing the program so much and hope to have the opportunity to prepare more shows next Summer. My collection of original cast recordings of Broadway shows continues to grow, and I will look forward to sharing them with listeners. Now it's time to concentrate once again on opera.

VERY SAD NEWS

I learned today, from Bill Ronayne, President of the Mario Lanza Society, that Mario Lanza's son, Damon Lanza, has passed away. He died on Saturday, August 16th at the age of 55. It's been a very sad day here.

GORGEOUS CAKE

Here is a photograph of the delicious Viva Mario Cake that we enjoyed a week ago at the Mario Lanza Society luncheon. The photo was sent by Bill Ronayne, President of the Society. Thanks, Bill.

Mario Lanza Luncheon

Another luncheon of the Mario Lanza Society of New York took place yesterday at Patsy's Restaurant in Manhattan from 1-4 PM. We had our own private area upstairs, and it was wonderful to meet so many Lanza fans. The lunch included a choice of salad or a flavorful lentil soup; a choice of Chicken Parmigiana, Rigatoni, Salmon, Cannelloni, Eggplant Parmigiana, or Sausages Parmigiana;and a gigantic slice of Viva Mario Cake ( a lovely puff pastry and cream creation), frosted and decorated elegantly. There were also coffee and a cash bar. During this sublime repast, we were welcomed by President Bill Ronayne, we were treated to arias and songs sung by Raffaella Lo Castro and Giuseppe Taormina, and we heard recorded highlights from the career of Elaine Malbin, who was in attendance. What a treat it was to see her in person. We also listened to some splendid Lanza recordings. It was a sensational afternoon, and I will look forward to the next one, as well as the Lanza Ball in November

DELICIOUS FOOD PHOTOS

There is a new addition to my website, which is
http://www.operaphotos.org
If you scroll to the bottom of the page, on the left, you can click on
food photos. These were taken on vacation. There are several categories,
so you can find the part of the meal that you enjoy the most.

Summer Schedule at WPRB

The new summer schedule at WPRB will begin this Sunday, May 25th. I am looking forward to doing two extra shows in addition to Sunday Morning Opera. They are Morning Classical on Fridays from 6-8:30 AM and Broadway Voices on Mondays from 11 AM until 1 PM. I am especially looking forward to Broadway Voices and playing a LOT of Ethel Merman's recordings.