FRIDAY FUNNIES / NOW FOR A BIT OF ONLINE SHOPPING

"Honey, are those the new shoes you bought online for $10?" 
By Jim Unger

SPACE CADETS / RARE PLANET ALIGNMENT TOMORROW NIGHT

An extraordinary astronomical phenomenon called the Planet Parade, during which the seven planets of our solar system – Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune – will align, to occur on February 28, 2025. To witness a planet parade, you can primarily use your naked eyes to see the brighter planets like Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn; however, for a better view of fainter planets like Uranus and Neptune, you'll need binoculars or a telescope. Choose a place darker and away from the city lights for a better view. You can see the event at around sunset. (Timing may differ in different time zones. Check on google). However, Astronomers recommend using a software program like Stellarium to figure out when and where to look. 

THE FOODIST / TOMATOMANIA CHEERS 25 YEARS OF TOMATO LOVE

Tomatomania, the beloved annual seedling event that has captured the hearts of garden enthusiasts and tomato lovers nationwide, is gearing up for its 25th Anniversary season. 

This year's standout? A dazzling tomato variety named "Persuasion," crowned as the 2025 Tomato of the Year. 

The Silver Anniversary tour kicks off in Corona Del Mar at Roger’s Gardens, running from February 28 through March 9. 

With over 15 events scheduled through May, Tomatomania promises another season of vibrant seedlings, expert advice, and community celebration. Notably, the event will mark its 25th year at Tapia Brothers Farm in Encino from March 21-23. 

 Event highlights, as they are confirmed, will be available on tomatomania.com. Over the years, Tomatomania has seen its fair share of quirky moments—from a bride and groom arriving in a limo for photos among the seedlings to a ten-foot-wide helium tomato stealing the spotlight. 

Even TV reporters have joined the fun, donning head-to-toe tomato costumes to cover the festivities. Scott Daigre, the event's owner and producer, continues to share his passion for this revered summer fruit, offering growing tips and varietal insights to eager gardeners. 

Reflecting on the journey, Daigre said, "Someone told me in 2003 that the heirloom craze was over. Glad I didn’t listen to that forecast! We’re so grateful and excited to continue to excite and motivate good gardeners across the state and the country." As for "Persuasion," some tomatoes simply stand out. 

During trials, this variety’s striking appearance, exceptional taste, and impressive yield made it impossible to overlook. Developed by Brad Gates of Wild Boar Farms in Northern California, "Persuasion" is a relatively new hybrid variety that has quickly earned its place in the spotlight. 

 Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just discovering the joy of homegrown tomatoes, Tomatomania's 25th Anniversary season promises something special for everyone. Don't miss out on this milestone celebration of community, cultivation, and, of course, tomatoes

TOMATOMANIA IN SAN DIEGO AREA 

-- Water Conservation Garden, El Cajon.  March 7-8 (Friday/Saturday) We look forward to returning to the highly respected (and uber-relevant) Water Conservation Garden in El Cajon for our southernmost event of 2025! We’ll add TOMATOMANIA! to their landscape for a 2- day sale and will showcase 75-80 varieties of your favorite summer treat. 

-- Mission Hills Nursery, San Diego March 8-9 (Sat/Sun) Spring arrives in full force at this venerable San Diego nursery for our official Tomatomania weekend as we head “down south” to the San Diego area.

DESIGN / YOURS FOR $7 MIL CIRCULAR ESTATE IN AUSTRALIA WITH WINERY

 Quite the getaway for Yanks weary of lying politicos 

GUEST BLOG / From research by property journalist Lisa Calautti – Imagine an eight-bedroom architectural wonder in Rosebud, offering breathtaking views of Australia’s Mornington Peninsula [40 miles south of Melbourne,Victoria, Australia]. 

This one-of-a-kind circular estate, spread across over 60 acres, is currently on the market for $7 million. 

What makes this property special? For starters, it isn't in America and it features a working vineyard [Blue Range Estate Winery], which may or not be a working entity at this date. But in the past, the estate had supplied grapes to some of the region’s most well-known wineries. 

And the circular design? It’s not just for show—it was thoughtfully crafted to maximize the incredible views of the bay. The estate sits right on the border of Rosebud and Main Ridge, giving it a serene, private setting. As soon as you close the grand front gates, you’re in your own peaceful world, far from the hustle and bustle. 

The house itself is a masterpiece. The curved glass walls offer panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including glimpses of Bass Strait and Port Phillip Bay. 

With bedrooms spread across two levels and a central courtyard featuring a wood-fired pizza oven, a commercial-grade kitchen, and a bar, this property is perfect for entertaining. Step outside, and you’ll find a large outdoor entertaining area, ideal for hosting family gatherings or parties. 

The vineyard, covering 8 hectares, produces a variety of grapes, including Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Pinot Noir, Merlot, and Shiraz. This estate is more than a home—it’s a lifestyle. Whether you’re drawn to its architectural elegance, vineyard charm, or stunning views, this property is a rare gem waiting for its next chapter. 

SPACE CADETS / LIFE BUILDING BLOCKS FOUND ON BENNU

NASA’s latest space mission has uncovered something fascinating—tiny chemical ingredients that could have helped kickstart life on Earth. Scientists analyzing rock and dust samples from the asteroid Bennu found amino acids and nucleobases, the same molecules that makeup DNA and RNA. 

Bennu is an ancient space rock, a leftover fragment from the early solar system, dating back about 4.5 billion years. 

In 2020, NASA’s OSIRIS-REx spacecraft collected samples from the asteroid, and in 2023, a capsule carrying them safely parachuted down into the Utah desert. 

 

Benno, a 60-mile wide asteroid

What Did They Find? 

Researchers discovered that amino acids – essential for building proteins in living organisms. Nucleobases – the key components of DNA and RNA. Signs of salty water (brine) – hint at a past environment where life’s chemistry could have taken shape. 

Scientists have long suspected that asteroids might have delivered the necessary ingredients for life to early Earth. This discovery strengthens that idea. If these organic molecules formed in space and made their way to our planet billions of years ago, they might have helped create the first life forms. 

 However, the samples didn’t contain actual DNA or RNA—just their raw materials. So while Bennu isn’t proof of alien life, it does suggest that the essential ingredients for life are widespread in the solar system. 

 Why It Matters 

Unlike meteorites that land on Earth and risk contamination, these pristine samples from Bennu give scientists a clearer picture of the chemistry of the early solar system. The findings also raise the possibility that life—or its building blocks—could exist elsewhere in space. As scientists analyze the samples, who knows what else they might uncover? 

MEDIA MONDAY / THAT SINKING FEELING; NEW POLLS

 

Transcript: Bad News for Trump as Brutal New Polls Show Musk Tanking 

From the New Republic Magazine: An interview with political scientist Julia Azari, who argues that new polls showing public backlash to Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s authoritarian overreach give Democrats an opening.

The following is a lightly edited transcript of the February 21 episode of The Daily Blast podcast.

Greg Sargent: This is The Daily Blast from The New Republic, produced and presented by the DSR network. I’m your host, Greg Sargent. Three new national polls show that President Donald Trump’s job approval is decidedly underwater. 

Even more tellingly, however, the new polls show that majorities are rejecting Trump’s authoritarian governing tactics. And on top of that, Elon Musk, who’s been tapped to carry out some of Trump’s most autocratic designs, fares even worse than Trump does in this polling. 

Is it possible that we’re finally seeing a real public backlash to Trump’s authoritarianism, the one that was supposed to materialize during the campaign but didn’t? And if so, what does that mean for how the Democratic opposition should proceed? 

We’re talking about all this with political scientist, Julia Azari, who has a good piece for her Substack, Good Politics, Bad Politics, about some of these questions. 

Let’s quickly go through this polling. CNN finds that 47 percent of Americans approve of Trump’s performance while 52 percent disapprove. Gallup finds him at 45 to 51. And The Washington Post finds that 43 percent support what Trump has done in his first month while 48 percent oppose it. 

Julia, here we have two national polls showing a majority disapprove of Trump and a third poll showing pretty low support for his first month’s accomplishments, such as they are. It’s still early days, but those aren’t great numbers for Trump, are they? 

Azari: No, they’re not. They’re not entirely unexpected, but they really do underscore the point that I’ve been trying to make since the November election, which is that there’s not a lot of conclusive evidence that Trump’s specific agenda is very popular. In a context in which there’s a lot of distrust of government, it’s not obvious that strong executive overreach is the answer to that distrust. 

Sargent: That brings up what you wrote in your piece, which is, One of the big questions right now is what’s going on with what you call the anti-authoritarian majority. Even during the election we saw majorities taking Trump’s criminality seriously, majorities opposing the authoritarian threats and so forth, but obviously that anti-authoritarian majority didn’t materialize at the ballot box this time. Now, however, people are seeing the authoritarian rule up front. The Post poll finds that 66 percent say Trump shouldn’t be able to freeze funding without congressional approval, and 57 percent say he’s gone beyond his authority. CNN finds 52 percent say he’s overstepped his powers—that includes 57 percent of independents. Julia, is this a situation where people didn’t really know what this would look like until they saw it? 

Azari: It feels wild to say yes to the answer to that question because we have seen Trump before. But I think there are two pieces of this. The first one is something I’ve talked about quite a lot since the November election, and that is nostalgia for past presidents. Normally it’s just a curiosity, but Gallup has recorded this. Past presidents get a bump. They have different bumps, but Trump got a 12-point bump between 2021 and 2023. People remember positive aspects of his presidency, particularly because of the years that Biden was in office were so troubling. That also leads us to a different line of thinking, which is a lack of defined political alternative. There are lines of argumentation about Trump as an authoritarian or as an executive overreacher or whatever you want to call it, there are lines of argumentation about his policies, and there are lines of argumentation in favor of the other side. But what’s missing is a movement that really defines all of these things and brings them together and talks about how, for example, pardoning January 6 people has broader policy implications in some ways, that lawlessness leads to poor policy outcomes or to things that people don’t like. It’s an attenuated connection between pardoning January Sixers and egg prices. In fact, there’s a reason that people like democracy—and it’s not just theoretical. It’s also about better policy outcomes when you have more people expressing input about what the country should do. 

Sargent: Yes, I think that’s right. What’s been missing is a big argument about why Trump’s authoritarianism is bad. On the other hand, we are seeing this polling here, which shows majorities are troubled by the authoritarian rule they’re seeing. I would like those numbers to be higher and maybe they’re not higher because of what you’re pointing out, which is the lack of the counternarrative explaining it all. Nonetheless, majorities are unhappy with it, and that seems significant to me. What do you think, Julia? Should we take at least a tiny bit of solace from the fact that majorities are already seeing Trump as an overreacher and potentially even an abuser of his powers? 

Azari: I think that what Democrats should be looking at is building power toward the midterms. In some ways, this is really a situation in which the questions are now not about legitimacy or authority. They’re now not about constitutional boundaries—those are questions for the courts, they’re questions for people to ponder. For Democrats thinking about concrete ways to intervene in the broader Trump agenda, the task is power building. That involves looking forward, looking ahead to the 2026 midterms and looking at areas where there is a lack of popular support for Trump generally, and also for specific actions. That’s the game that we’re playing now. These approval ratings, these polls that we’ve just seen are crucial tools in that power-building task. 

Sargent: Yeah. I think the key point here that you’re getting at is: Now that we see that majorities are rejecting the overreach, it’s time for Democrats to really step up and prosecute that case a little more strongly against that. By the way, speaking of unpopularity, let’s talk about Elon Musk. The Post poll finds that only 34 percent, and only 26 percent of independents, approving of Musk’s role. Even worse, Americans disapprove by 2 to 1 of Musk shutting down government agencies, and 63 percent are concerned by his team’s access to sensitive government data. Meanwhile, the CNN poll finds that only 28 percent think it’s good that Trump gave Musk a prominent role while 54 percent think it’s bad. I think it’s surprising that large percentages of Americans have an opinion of Musk in these polls, actually. The original thought was Trump would let Musk do all the dirty work, people would just trust that it was all fine because Musk is a tech wizard and so forth. But Musk has clearly done Trump no favors by being such a megalomaniac about all of what he’s doing. What do you think? 

Azari: There’s a couple of things going on there. Another piece of data that I think is useful is a Pew Research study from 2023 that shows that Americans are pretty concerned about cybersecurity, about government access to private information, and about their information. I was somewhat surprised that the issue was as salient as it was. 

The other thing is Musk. Salience is a really relevant point there too. If you’re going to appoint someone in a presidential administration, [if] you’re going to pick someone to have all this power that’s not really checked, the strategic thing to do would be to pick somebody who is not very well-known. And Musk is not that. Musk was quite well known even before he was in politics; he was a public figure, at least to a lot of people who followed tech. He also had some pretty high-profile scandals around his business and his treatment of women. I don’t remember the details, but I do remember that there was an anti-Musk backlash before he was a political figure. The other thing I can’t stop thinking about has actually been the 2009 backlash about Obama and the White House czars. You remember this? There was a big media freak-out about who are these czars that Obama is appointing. Which again, these were dull people with policy expertise and not controversial media figures like Musk. 

But there was this real pushback of, What is a czar? How many of these czars are Senate confirmed? And some of them weren’t. Is this an illegitimate power grab? So there are narratives out there that that suggests that people are quite nervous about these expansions of presidential power through the appointment of these personnel that are not elected. 

Sargent: Yes, we’ve got the mother of all czars here. And as you say, Americans are uncomfortable with that. By the way, to your point about Musk being well-known—it’s not just that he’s well-known, it’s that he’s a friggin’ megalomaniac. He’s a lunatic. He goes out and thrives on publicly antagonizing people. So that’s obviously not going to work in Trump’s favor as far as I can tell. 

Azari: Yeah, particularly, the thing that I keep coming back to is they’re tangling with veterans, both concretely, substantively, and also symbolically talking about the government in that way. That strikes me as a potential real pain point. Although, we’ll see how that unfolds because this anti-fascist majority doesn’t always materialize. 

Sargent: It doesn’t always materialize. It shows up in the polls steadily, but doesn’t always show up at the ballot box. I think we’re going to be in a different situation in 2026. Then, some of the structural conditions will kick in and midterms that work against the party in power. By the way, one of the weird narratives about the Trump presidency has been that disruption is his friend. Trump can disrupt, and everybody will magically be seduced into thinking they want his strongman tactics to clean up the mess. Never mind that he’s making the mess. That’s been the narrative anyway. Are we seeing some reason to doubt that? 

Azari: “Disruption” is such an interesting concept in American politics because people want it. And we have had a lot of recent elections where the incumbent party has done badly and where people clearly want change. Then when change actually happens, inevitably there are losers. Inevitably, there are people who are either affected in a negative way or who are suffering from trade-offs, and that’s true even under much more normal political circumstances. You add in this element of policies that are actions that end with people losing their jobs without warning, that end in an interruption of services? People do not like those kinds of disruptions. Those strike me as fundamentally unpopular disruptions. So yeah, we shall see. And I meant to raise this earlier, we’ll see if this persuades Democrats that Trump doesn’t actually have a magical popular opinion mandate—that belief seems to be driving some of Democrats’ behavior. 

Sargent: It certainly does. So does the idea that the only thing that voters care about is economic and material conditions, that there’s no way to reach voters with talk about authoritarianism unless it can be shown to have a material impact on people. By the way, the CNN poll finds 73 percent of Democrats say the party in Congress isn’t doing enough to oppose Trump. That matters. Don’t Democratic lawmakers have to make it clear to their rank and file that they recognize the threat Trump poses, that they’re acting, that they’re up to the moment? There’s a risk that voters disengage if not, right? 

Azari: Yeah, it’s hard to get a handle on exactly what’s going on in the Democratic Party right now. But certainly, the Democratic identifiers seemed pretty unsatisfied with what the party is doing. To take this to a really meta level, I keep going back to how old the two parties are, how many times they’ve both readapted, and how it seems like they’re ripe for rethinking. And it does seem like that is driving some of what’s happening in the Democratic Party. On the one hand, you have a very institutionalist, preservationist, cautious element. On the other hand, you have people who really want to see serious structural change—in this case, that’s manifesting and wanting to see a much more strenuous objection to the current administration. 

Sargent: Just to wrap this up, can they can they step up and and really deliver? The conditions are ripe for it, don’t you think? 

Azari: I think it’s tricky because they need to use the powers of influence that they have. There’s a long-standing hesitance to either go too far and be seen as obstructionist or to embrace out-of-the-norm solutions; Democrats have been, in particular, really hesitant around that. So I think the Democrats are going to have to decide what strategy or, maybe more importantly, strategies they use to push back on the administration. Democrats have an opportunity right now to do that because Trump is clearly vulnerable in public opinion and the public seems to be responsive to the idea that he’s overreaching. So whatever we thought was this really powerful mandate from 2024, even if it was there—and I’m skeptical—it doesn’t seem to have lasted. 

Sargent: I really hope that Democrats listen to you on that. Julia Azari, thank you so much for coming on with us today. 

Azari: Thank you so much. 

Sargent: You’ve been listening to The Daily Blast with me, your host, Greg Sargent. The Daily Blast is a New Republic podcast and is produced by Riley Fessler and the DSR Network.

SUNDAY REVIEW / PATHS OF GLORY LEAD BUT TO THE GRAVE

 

Believed to be the inspiration for Thomas Gray's "Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard," St. Giles, Stoke Poges, Buckinghamshire.  The poet rests there.

A work of triumph in the English language 

SYNOPSIS / By Samuel Taylor Coleridge--Thomas Gray’s Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard stands as a luminous beacon of melancholic reflection, woven with the finest threads of pastoral beauty and philosophical depth. 

 It is not merely an elegy for the nameless dead interred beneath the sod, but for the human condition itself, which, regardless of station, ambition, or genius, finds its terminus in the grave. The poet’s meditation on mortality serves as both lament and reverence, ennobling the simple lives of the forgotten while subtly chastising the vanity of worldly grandeur. 

Gray’s verse is remarkable for its exquisite harmony of sound and thought, its diction dignified yet tender. The imagery lingers long in the mind, whether in the solemn toll of the curfew bell, the 'paths of glory' that 'lead but to the grave,' or the poignant vision of the 'gem of purest ray serene' wasted in obscurity. 

 It is poetry that consoles as it mourns, imparting to its reader that which all great verse must—an abiding sense of the sublime. 

Thomas Gray 

Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard 

By Thomas Gray, 1751 

The curfew tolls the knell of parting day, 

The lowing herd winds slowly o’er the lea, 

The plowman homeward plods his weary way, 

And leaves the world to darkness and to me. 

Now fades the glimmering landscape on the sight, 

And all the air a solemn stillness holds, 

Save where the beetle wheels his droning flight, 

And drowsy tinklings lull the distant folds; 

Save that from yonder ivy-mantled tower, 

The moping owl does to the moon complain 

Of such, as wandering near her secret bower, 

Molest her ancient solitary reign. 

Beneath those rugged elms, that yew-tree’s shade, 

Where heaves the turf in many a mould’ring heap, 

Each in his narrow cell forever laid, 

The rude forefathers of the hamlet sleep. 

The breezy call of incense-breathing morn, 

The swallow twitt’ring from the straw-built shed, 

The cock’s shrill clarion, or the echoing horn, 

No more shall rouse them from their lowly bed. 

For them no more the blazing hearth shall burn, 

Or busy housewife ply her evening care: 

No children run to lisp their sire’s return, 

Or climb his knees the envied kiss to share. 

Oft did the harvest to their sickle yield, 

Their furrow oft the stubborn glebe has broke: 

How jocund did they drive their team afield! 

How bowed the woods beneath their sturdy stroke! 

Let not ambition mock their useful toil, 

Their homely joys, and destiny obscure; 

Nor grandeur hear with a disdainful smile, 

The short and simple annals of the poor. 

The boast of heraldry, the pomp of power, 

And all that beauty, all that wealth e’er gave, 

Await alike th’ inevitable hour, 

The paths of glory lead but to the grave. 

Nor you, ye proud, impute to these the fault, 

If memory o’er their tomb no trophies raise, 

Where through the long-drawn aisle and fretted vault, 

The pealing anthem swells the note of praise. 

Can storied urn or animated bust 

Back to its mansion call the fleeting breath? 

Can Honor’s voice provoke the silent dust, 

Or Flatt’ry soothe the dull cold ear of death? 

Perhaps in this neglected spot is laid 

Some heart once pregnant with celestial fire; 

Hands that the rod of empire might have swayed, 

Or waked to ecstasy the living lyre. 

But knowledge to their eyes her ample page, 

Rich with the spoils of time, did ne’er unroll; 

Chill penury repressed their noble rage, 

And froze the genial current of the soul. 

Full many a gem of purest ray serene, 

The dark unfathomed caves of ocean bear: 

Full many a flower is born to blush unseen, 

And waste its sweetness on the desert air. 

Some village-Hampden, that with dauntless breast 

The little tyrant of his fields withstood, 

Some mute inglorious Milton here may rest, 

Some Cromwell guiltless of his country’s blood. 

Th’ applause of list’ning senates to command, 

The threats of pain and ruin to despise, 

To scatter plenty o’er a smiling land, 

And read their history in a nation’s eyes, 

Their lot forbade; nor circumscribed alone 

Their growing virtues, but their crimes confined; 

Forbade to wade through slaughter to a throne, 

And shut the gates of mercy on mankind, 

The struggling pangs of conscious truth to hide, 

To quench the blushes of ingenuous shame, 

Or heap the shrine of luxury and pride, 

With incense kindled at the muse’s flame. 

Far from the madding crowd’s ignoble strife, 

Their sober wishes never learned to stray; 

Along the cool sequestered vale of life 

They kept the noiseless tenor of their way. 

Yet ev’n these bones from insult to protect, 

Some frail memorial still erected nigh, 

With uncouth rhymes and shapeless sculpture decked, 

Implores the passing tribute of a sigh. 

Their name, their years, spelt by th’ unlettered muse, 

The place of fame and elegy supply: 

And many a holy text around she strews, 

That teach the rustic moralist to die. 

For who, to dumb forgetfulness a prey, 

This pleasing anxious being e’er resigned, 

Left the warm precincts of the cheerful day, 

Nor cast one longing lingering look behind? 

On some fond breast the parting soul relies, 

Some pious drops the closing eye requires; 

Ev’n from the tomb the voice of nature cries, 

Ev’n in our ashes live their wonted fires. 

For thee, who mindful of th’ unhonored dead 

Dost in these lines their artless tale relate, 

If chance, by lonely contemplation led, 

Some kindred spirit shall inquire thy fate, 

Haply some hoary-headed swain may say, 

“Oft have we seen him at the peep of dawn 

Brushing with hasty steps the dews away 

To meet the sun upon the upland lawn. 

There at the foot of yonder nodding beech, 

That wreathes its old fantastic roots so high, 

His listless length at noontide would he stretch, 

And pore upon the brook that babbles by. 

Hard by yon wood, now smiling as in scorn, 

Mutt’ring his wayward fancies he would rove, 

Now drooping, woful wan, like one forlorn, 

Or crazed with care, or crossed in hopeless love. 

One morn I missed him on the customed hill, 

Along the heath, and near his favorite tree; 

Another came; nor yet beside the rill, 

Nor up the lawn, nor at the wood was he. 

The next, with dirges due in sad array, 

Slow through the church-way path we saw him borne:— 

Approach and read (for thou canst read) the lay, 

Graved on the stone beneath yon aged thorn.” 

COFFEE BEANS & BEINGS / DOBLE DOWN IN MALLORCA

Doble Coffee is located in the village of Esporles, amid the Tramuntana mountains of Mallorca.

 Perched in the breathtaking mountains of Mallorca, doble isn’t just a coffee shop—it’s an experience. Whether you’re a caffeine aficionado or someone seeking a tranquil escape with a view, this gem in the Tramuntana range delivers on all fronts. 

Atmosphere doble feels like a seamless blend of rustic charm and contemporary flair. The space is inviting, with warm wood tones, high ceilings, and large windows that frame the dramatic Mallorcan landscape. 

If you sit outside, the mountain breeze mingles with the comforting aroma of freshly ground beans—an intoxicating combination. 

Coffee The heart of doble is, of course, its coffee. The house blend, sourced from sustainable farms in Central America, strikes a perfect balance between boldness and smoothness. Whether you go for their velvety cappuccino or the rich pour-over, you’ll taste the care and precision in every sip. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the Mallorcan-inspired cold brew infused with a touch of local almond and citrus—unexpected, yet utterly delightful. 

Food and Pastries What’s coffee without something to nibble on? The pastries are freshly baked in-house, with standouts like the ensaïmada, a traditional Mallorcan sweet pastry, and their flaky almond croissant. For something more substantial, their open-faced sandwiches (try the smoked trout with local herbs) make for a perfect mid-hike fuel. 

Service The staff at doble radiates warmth and pride. They're quick to recommend their favorites or share tips for nearby hiking trails. Their passion for their craft is evident, and it elevates the entire experience. 

The Location Found on a winding road above a romantic village, doble offers a serene retreat. After a morning hike or a drive through the scenic hairpin turns of the Tramuntana, it’s the ideal place to pause and savor the moment—preferably with a steaming cup in hand. 

 Final Thoughts doble isn’t just a coffee house—it’s a destination. It’s a place where the beauty of Mallorca meets the art of coffee, leaving you with a memory as rich as the espresso they serve. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, make sure to add this spot to your itinerary. You’ll leave refreshed, inspired, and perhaps, with a bag of their beans to take a piece of the experience home. 

 

FAMOUS STUFF ON THIS DATE

Here are ten significant world events that occurred on February 21 throughout history: 

 1804 – First Steam Locomotive Journey: The world's first recorded railway journey took place as Richard Trevithick's steam locomotive hauled a train along the tramway of the Penydarren Ironworks in Wales. 

 1848 – Publication of "The Communist Manifesto": Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels published "The Communist Manifesto," outlining the principles of communism and influencing political thought worldwide. 

1878 – First Telephone Directory Issued: The world's first telephone directory was published in New Haven, Connecticut. 

 1916 – Battle of Verdun Begins: One of World War I's longest and most brutal battles, the Battle of Verdun, commenced between French and German forces, resulting in an estimated one million casualties over nine months. ON THIS DAY 

 1925 – First Issue of The New Yorker Published: The inaugural issue of "The New Yorker" magazine was published, marking the beginning of a publication renowned for its commentary, fiction, and journalism. 

From Polaroid Collection 
by fashion Photog Marco
Glaviano. Model Paulina
Porizkova 1970s

1947 – First Instant Camera Demonstrated: Edwin Land demonstrated the first instant camera, the Polaroid Land Camera, in New York City, revolutionizing photography with immediate image development. 

1952 – Bengali Language Movement Protests: In Dhaka, East Pakistan (now Bangladesh), students protested for the recognition of their language, Bengali, leading to police opening fire and killing several protesters. 

1965 – Assassination of Malcolm X: Civil rights leader Malcolm X was assassinated in New York City while delivering a speech, marking a pivotal moment in the American civil rights movement. 

1972 – Nixon's Visit to China: U.S. President Richard Nixon arrived in China, marking the first visit by a U.S. president to the People's Republic of China and a significant step in normalizing relations between the two nations. 

 1995 – First Solo Pacific Balloon Flight: American adventurer Steve Fossett became the first person to make a solo flight across the Pacific Ocean in a balloon, landing in Leader, Saskatchewan, Canada.  

THE FOODIST / HAPPY NEW FOODIE ADVENTURE

GUEST BLOG / By Holden DeMayo, Food Critic with PillartoPost.org daily online magazine--A venture into a restaurant I've never been in was part of a New Year's resolution to carpe diem. And, having never tasted Nepalese cuisine before, I scored twice. 

Taste of the Himalayas, located at 3185 Midway Dr in San Diego, offers a delightful fusion of Indian, Nepalese, and Tibetan cuisines. The restaurant is renowned for its flavorful dishes, including the popular Chicken Tikka Masala, Malai Kofta, and a variety of Naan breads. 

Vegetarian and vegan options are also available, catering to diverse dietary preferences. Guests appreciate the customizable spice levels, with a scale from 1 to 10, allowing diners to tailor the heat to their liking. 

However, it's advisable to choose a lower number if you're sensitive to spiciness, as even mid-range levels can be quite hot. The restaurant's ambiance is cozy and unpretentious, situated in a strip mall with ample parking. 

While the interior decor may be modest, the friendly and attentive staff contribute to a pleasant dining experience. 

 Overall, Taste of the Himalayas provides a satisfying culinary journey through the flavors of the Himalayas, making it a noteworthy destination for those seeking authentic and diverse South Asian cuisine in San Diego. 

Saffron rules!

DESIGN / INTERIOR OF THE TAJ MAHAL

The Taj Mahal is a stunning mausoleum located in Agra, India, renowned as one of the world's most iconic symbols of love and architectural beauty. Built between 1632 and 1648 by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, it was constructed in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died during childbirth. 

Exterior Overview 

• The Taj Mahal is made primarily of white marble, intricately inlaid with semi-precious stones in floral and geometric patterns. 

• The complex features a large, symmetrical garden with a reflecting pool, four minarets, and a central dome flanked by smaller domes. 

• It is set on the southern bank of the Yamuna River, enhancing its picturesque beauty. 

What’s Inside the Taj Mahal? 

1. The Cenotaphs*: 

o Inside the main chamber are two cenotaphs (false tombs) of Mumtaz Mahal and Shah Jahan. These cenotaphs are elaborate, with detailed marble carvings and intricate pietra dura (inlay work with semi-precious stones). 

o Mumtaz Mahal’s cenotaph is centrally placed, while Shah Jahan’s cenotaph lies beside hers, slightly offset. 

2. The Actual Tombs: 

o The real graves of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal are in a crypt directly below the main chamber. These are much simpler and not open to the public. 

3. Marble Inlay and Calligraphy: 

o The interior walls are adorned with exquisite marble inlay work, featuring floral motifs and verses from the Quran, meticulously engraved and inlaid with gemstones. 

4. Echoing Dome: 

o The main chamber features a lofty dome, designed to amplify sound, creating an ethereal echoing effect that enhances the sense of reverence and serenity. 

5. Decorative Elements: 

o The walls and ceilings are embellished with intricate designs, showcasing the skilled craftsmanship of artisans from across the Mughal Empire and beyond. 

Purpose and Significance 

The Taj Mahal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is regarded as a masterpiece of Mughal architecture. It stands as a testament to enduring love and is a popular destination for tourists and scholars worldwide.

TRAVEL/ THE AWAY SIDE OF MALLORCA

 

The Lodge Mallorca (above), a luxury retreat created in a 157-hectare private nature reserve amid the Sierra de Tramuntana, was meticulously designed by acclaimed interior designer Pilar García-Nieto. 

 The property is owned and operated by Único Hotels, a renowned hospitality group known for its commitment to excellence and unique guest experiences. It is near Pollenca known for its cobblestone streets, ancient churches, and vibrant cultural scene. 

This northern pocket of the island offers a tranquil escape from other tourist hubs on Mallorca. 

Regarding pricing, room rates at The Lodge Mallorca vary depending on the season and accommodation type. As of January 2025, prices start at approximately €281.42 per night. 

 From its elevated position, The Lodge offers sweeping views of the Tramuntana Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the adjective rich Mediterranean Sea. 

The surrounding landscape—a patchwork of olive orchards, almond groves, and pine forests—invites guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the island. 

At 1,400 sq. miles, Mallorca, about the size of Rhode Island, Hong Kong or Luxembourg.  The Lodge is at the top of the map. 

Getting to Mallorca 

Mallorca, the largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, is well-connected and accessible from major cities across Europe. The primary gateway to the island is Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI), which serves both domestic and international flights. 

From cities like London, Berlin, or Paris, direct flights to Palma are frequent and convenient, with flight times typically ranging between 2 to 3 hours. Once you arrive at Palma Airport, there are several options to reach The Lodge Mallorca. 

Renting a car is highly recommended, as it provides the flexibility to explore the island at your own pace. The drive from Palma to Pollença takes approximately 45 minutes via the Ma-13 highway, a scenic route that showcases Mallorca’s diverse landscapes. Alternatively, private transfers can be arranged for those seeking a seamless and stress-free journey. 

For travelers already in Spain, ferry services from Barcelona or Valencia to Palma offer a leisurely way to reach the island, with crossing times averaging 7-8 hours. This option allows you to enjoy panoramic views of the Mediterranean and arrive with your own vehicle if desired. For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, it is recommended to contact the hotel directly or visit their official website. 

Classic Mallorca Beach at nearby Cala Agulla.
Sydney & Davis, image.

MONDAY, MONDAY

Yes, those of us who live in San Diego are well aware that our climate is essentially a desert, relying on imported fresh water from other regions. The striking image above, captured by Associated Press photographer Michael Probst, features a rainstorm in Frankfurt, Germany—a visual reminder for Southern Californians of what rain actually looks like. No smugness intended, just a reflection on the fragile balance of the world we've built. 

 In December 2024, San Diego received less than a fraction of an inch of rain. The second image showcases Pizzeria Luigi in the Golden Hill neighborhood of America’s Finest City. Interestingly, both photos were taken on the same day—a stark contrast highlighting the climatic differences between regions. 

SUNDAY REVIEW / NEW YORK TIMES PHOTO OUTTAKES OF AUTHOR JAMES BALDWIN.

1972: Author James Baldwin posed for photographs in an apartment
on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. Frame 19 (upper left)
was the image that editors chose for publication. 

Proof sheet photos: Jack Manning, NYT. 

GUEST BLOG / By Rachel L. Swarns, writer, The New York Times--He is pensive. Quizzical. Amused. Then, suddenly, there’s that wide grin, that light-up-your-face laugh. That single shot of James Baldwin — Frame 19, above — landed on the culture pages of The New York Times in 1972. 

But NYT photographer Jack Manning took many, many more pictures that day. After more than four decades, NYT editors are finally publishing some of the most interesting outtakes. The sheet above includes 23 frames of Mr. Baldwin in an apartment on the Upper West Side of Manhattan as the writer and expatriate spent some time in New York on his way home to France after a fund-raising trip for the activist Angela Davis. 

Mr. Baldwin was discussing his new collection of essays, “No Name in the Street”; his disillusionment with the civil rights movement; his writer’s block; and the illness that kept him bedridden for months with what he said his “friends thought was hepatitis, but with something I thought was psychological.” 

The wide-ranging interview appeared in an article published on June 26, 1972. But what captures us today in these close-ups is his face, the wide eyes, the lined forehead, the mouth frozen midsentence, the cigarette caught between his fingers, the evocative expressions that shift from frame to frame. 

For years, Mr. Baldwin felt uncomfortable with his looks. His stepfather made fun of him when he was growing up, ridiculing his “frog eyes” and calling him the ugliest boy he had ever seen. Mr. Baldwin internalized that view of himself: “I had absolutely no reason to doubt him,” he wrote in 1976 in his book-length essay, “The Devil Finds Work.” 

“This judgment,” Mr. Baldwin continued, “was to have a decidedly terrifying effect on my life.” Over time, he learned that not everyone shared that view. Mr. Baldwin electrified readers in the 1950s and ’60s with a searing series of books and essays on race in America, including “Go Tell It on the Mountain,” “Notes of a Native Son,” “Nobody Knows My Name” and “The Fire Next Time.” 

People knew him not as the man with “frog eyes,” but as a writer of passion and power. Henry Louis Gates Jr., the Harvard professor, was 14 when he came across “Notes of a Native Son.” It was the first time he had ever read a book by a black writer, “the first time I had heard a voice capturing the terrible exhilaration and anxiety of being a person of African descent in this country,” 

Dr. Gates wrote in an article about Mr. Baldwin’s legacy for The New Republic. Dr. Gates finally met Mr. Baldwin at his home in France in 1973, just a year or so after Mr. Manning shot these photographs for The Times. “People said Baldwin was ugly; he himself said so,” Dr. Gates wrote in 1992. “But he was not ugly to me. There are faces that we cannot see simply as faces because they are so familiar, so iconic, and his face was one of them.” 

COFFEE BEANS & BEINGS / MAGIC FROM ONE OF THE LAST WOOD-FIRED ROASTERS IN ITALY

Nicola Scamardella loads his coffee beans into his tried and true wood-burning roaster.  Photos: Gianni Cipriano and Sara Smarrazzo

GUEST BLOG / Edited text from Amadeo Coletta via CulinaryBackstreets.com--Tucked away in Bacoli, southern Italy’s Campi Flegrei region, the last wood-fired coffee roaster continues a centuries-old tradition. 

Here, Nicola Scamardella carries on his family’s legacy of roasting coffee with a wood-burning machine, a skill he inherited from his father, Pasquale, affectionately called "Pasquale della Torrefazione." 

In the 1960s, Pasquale and his wife Delia opened Caffè do Peru, combining a bar and roastery in their hometown. By the late 20th century, Nicola and his sister Maria took over, renaming it Caffè Delizia. 

Chiara

In 2011, Chiara, Nicola’s partner, joined the business, bringing her expertise in communication and a love for colonial-style shops, inspired by her family’s history. 

She expanded the offerings to include organic products, spices, chocolates, and her own handmade sweets. A standout product at Caffè Delizia is Chiara’s hand-selected black pepper, but the star attraction remains the coffee. 

Nicola roasts beans in small batches using clean oak from the Campi Flegrei. He meticulously monitors the process, using traditional techniques passed down from his father. 

Customers rave about the blends, like the balanced “Family” mix (50% Arabica, 50% Robusta) and the premium Arabica blend, available in light and dark roasts. 

“This is the only coffee I drink bitter, without sugar,” says Sara, a regular. 

Chiara beams with pride: “Our coffee simply tastes like coffee – never burnt.” 

Inside Caffè Delizia, a cozy two-table shop, visitors sip coffee to the soundtrack of Nicola’s rock playlists, browse shelves of books, and enjoy homemade hazelnut cake or caprese cake. 

For coffee enthusiasts, witnessing Nicola’s roasting process is a treat – a harmonious blend of tradition, craftsmanship, and the aroma of oak-fired perfection. 

Locale: Caffè Delizia Via Cuma 79, Bacoli, Naples Tel. +39 335 191 8393 

JUST ONE OF THOSE DAYS

 HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY

On this Day our hero Art Nouveau kissed Miss Valentina Goodheart

THE FOODIST / THE WOLSELEY: AN EPITOME OF BRITISH CULINARY EXPERIENCES

Stepping into The Wolseley, nestled at the heart of London’s Piccadilly, is akin to entering an exquisite time capsule that marries opulence with timeless charm. The grandeur of its 1920s heritage is unmistakable from the moment you approach the iconic building. Once a luxurious car showroom, its architecture now frames a dining experience of equal sophistication. 

The Entrance: Elegance Personified 

From the outside, The Wolseley’s black-and-gold façade exudes understated elegance. Upon opening the grand doors, you are greeted by a maître d' who seamlessly embodies the establishment’s commitment to hospitality. The cavernous space immediately commands attention with its soaring ceilings, gleaming chandeliers, and a palette of marble, gold, and ebony. 

A symphony of subdued chatter and the gentle clinking of glasses fills the air, signaling an ambiance that is both lively and refined. 

A Dance Between Art Deco and Modernity 

The Art Deco interiors are a masterclass in design—ornate yet unpretentious. Banquettes line the room’s edges, offering a sense of intimacy amidst the buzz. The centerpiece, an open kitchen, showcases the culinary theater unfolding within, adding a contemporary twist to the restaurant’s historic charm. 

The Service: 

Seamless and Unobtrusive From the moment you are seated, the staff orchestrates your experience with precision and warmth. Water glasses are filled promptly, menus presented with a flourish, and any dietary preferences are handled with care. The waitstaff’s knowledge of the menu is impeccable, offering insightful recommendations without a hint of pretense. 

The Culinary Experience: 

Classic with a Twist The Wolseley’s menu is a homage to European café culture, featuring dishes that are as comforting as they are refined. The journey begins with freshly baked bread and butter—a deceptively simple starter that sets the tone for the meal. For the main course, the Wolseley’s renowned Wiener Schnitzel is a triumph. Perfectly crisp on the outside and tender within, it arrives with a side of lingonberries that balance the richness beautifully. 

Alternatively, the steak tartare, prepared tableside, is a spectacle and a testament to the kitchen’s commitment to culinary craftsmanship. 

Vegetarians are equally well-catered to, with dishes like the wild mushroom risotto delivering an earthy richness that rivals its meaty counterparts. 

High Tea: An Afternoon Panache

The Wolseley’s High Tea is an experience not to be missed. Served with the elegance befitting its surroundings, the three-tiered stand arrives laden with an array of treats. Delicate finger sandwiches with classic fillings such as smoked salmon, cucumber, and egg mayonnaise are perfectly balanced by the buttery scones that follow. 

Accompanied by clotted cream and a selection of preserves, the scones are a highlight in their own right. The final tier offers an assortment of miniature pastries and cakes, each a testament to the pastry chef’s skill. 

Whether it’s a zesty lemon tart or a rich chocolate éclair, each bite is a moment of indulgence. Paired with a selection of fine teas served in exquisite china, the High Tea at The Wolseley is both a visual and culinary feast, making it a quintessentially British affair. 

The Dessert: 

A Sweet Finale No visit to The Wolseley is complete without indulging in dessert. The mille-feuille is a standout—its delicate layers of pastry and cream offering a harmonious balance of texture and sweetness. 

For a more theatrical choice, the crème brûlée is torched tableside, its crackling sugar crust giving way to a luscious vanilla custard. 

Coffee or tea to conclude is practically a rite of passage here. Served on silver trays with petit fours, it ensures the experience ends as elegantly as it began. 

The Bar: 

The Wolseley’s bar and back bar [above] are a masterclass in Art Deco elegance blended with timeless sophistication. Situated within the grandiose surroundings of the former Wolseley Motor Company showroom, the bar’s design effortlessly bridges opulence and approachability. 

 The back bar, framed by intricate black lacquer and mirrored panels, showcases a meticulously curated selection of spirits, sparkling like a jewelry display under ambient lighting. 

 Ornate detailing, including brass accents and geometric motifs, pay homage to the 1920s aesthetic, while the marble-topped bar exudes understated luxury. The high ceilings, coupled with the architectural grandeur of arches and columns, create an open yet intimate atmosphere. Plush barstools, upholstered in rich leather, invite patrons to linger, while the subtle interplay of light and shadow adds depth and warmth. 

Every element of the design is thoughtfully integrated, making the bar a focal point of The Wolseley’s iconic ambiance. Oh, is that Kate Moss, the international model just leaving? Who is she with? Don't stare we're not paparazzi.

Conclusion: 

A Timeless London Institution The Wolseley is not merely a restaurant; it is a celebration of London’s cosmopolitan spirit and its enduring love for tradition. Whether you visit for breakfast, a leisurely lunch, or a decadent dinner, each visit promises an occasion to savor. From the impeccable service to the exquisite dishes, The Wolseley delivers on its promise of timeless elegance—a culinary jewel in the crown of London dining. 

And, yes you did rub shoulders with Sir Richard Branson entering with his party as you were stepping out into the Piccadilly at English dusk? 

RETRO FILES / MR. LINCOLN & FAMILY IN HONOR OF HIS BIRTHDAY

Today is President Lincoln's birthday: 

The Lincoln Family in 1861, c. 1865–66, black and white oils on canvas by Francis Bicknell Carpenter (1830–1900). The painting was made into a popular engraving by John Chester Buttre (1821-1893) and displayed in homes for decades. From left to right, Mary Lincoln, Willie, Robert, Tad, and President Lincoln. Collection of the New York Historical Society, via White House Historical Association