Tag: Arts & Culture

Film Review: ‘Dog Gone’: Netflix’s Embarrassing Stab at Aping Hallmark

 TV-PG | 1h 35min | Drama, Family | 13 January 2023 (USA) Of all dramatic sub-genres, family friendly “shaggy dog” movies are among the most cherished. They’re also the easiest to make and the hardest to mess up; all one needs to do is follow the tried-and-true formula established in 1943 with “Lassie Come Home.” The new Netflix movie “Dog Gone” does…


‘Music for Millions’ (1944): Wartime Prayer and Music

MGM distinguished itself during the Golden Era of Hollywood, particularly the 1940s, by featuring famous classical musicians in its major films. They not only performed musical numbers but also played acting roles in the stories. One of my favorite wartime musicals is “Music for Millions,” which is perfectly described by its title and features musical…


The Absence of Humility and Gratitude: Milton’s Satan in Torment

Throughout our series “Illustrious ideas and illustrations: The imagery of Gustav Doré,” we’ve had the opportunity to take a deep look at how Milton saw Satan. Satan, the father of Sin and Death, has been shown as synonymous with pride, vanity, deception, and revenge.  There’s still more to understand about Milton’s conception of Satan. Continuing…


How George Washington’s Business Sense Built Our Capital

A tourist visiting Washington, D.C., today has an overwhelming sightseeing schedule. Taking in the 4-mile panoramic loop of presidential monuments, war memorials, and museums along the National Mall is an intoxicating experience. The man the city is named for could not possibly have anticipated all the destinations and distractions in this tourist’s path. But George…


Arkeo Japan – Ichijôdani: a Return to the Source | Arkeo Ep8 | Documentary

In Ichijôdani, Japan, deep beneath the rice fields, archaeologists have excavated a medieval town abandoned 400 years earlier. In fact, they discovered an entire city as it was during the 16th century, with its streets, houses, and palaces. …


Finding Nimitz | Documentary

Dustin and Alan finish their road trip history documentary on the two great World War II heroes from Texas. After visiting the birthplace of Dwight D. Eisenhower, the Sons of History head over to the hometown of the great admiral Chester W. Nimitz. Follow us as we visit great restaurants, breweries, and more importantly, the…


Pennsylvania Public Officials Applaud Shen Yun

PITTSBURGH—Shen Yun Performing Arts touches the hearts of audiences around the world and some audience members show their gratitude in a special way. Pennsylvania State Senator Patrick J. Stefano attended Shen Yun’s Jan. 15 matinee performance in Pittsburgh at The Benedum Center for the Performing Arts. “I brought today my Certificate for Appreciation for what you’ve…


Popcorn and Inspiration: ‘Door to Door’: The Story of an Extraordinary Salesman

PG | 1h 30 min | Drama, Biopic | 2002 In 1868, J.R. Watkins bought the manufacturing rights to a liniment, then started making it in the kitchen of his home in Minnesota. Soon he built a thriving multi-product business in the United States and Canada, on the back of an army of door-to-door salesmen….


Rafael Guastavino’s Indelible Mark on America

When entering a building or a room, one naturally looks around. Yet Rafael Guastavino’s engineering and architectural artistry immediately draws the eyes upward. For a century and longer, the juxtaposition of tiles arranged in domes and arches have awed countless people. In fact, the Spanish immigrant’s indelible mark graces numerous iconic American structures, including New…


The Father of Our Country Was a Child of Cato

Throughout the ages, heroic men and women—real and mythological—have roused the spirits of those who hear or read about their exploits. Achilles, Hector, Antigone, Aeneas, and other Greco-Roman figures galvanized entire cultures. In story and song, the Middle Ages celebrated Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table, Charlemagne, Richard the Lionheart, Joan of Arc,…