The Next Grand Marshall

From the New York Times:

"The Columbus Day parade on Oct. 8 will be led by Lidia Bastianich, a partner in Felidia, Del Posto, Esca and Becco. She will be the third woman named grand marshal, following Sophia Loren and Susan Lucci, and the first restaurateur and chef. Reached by phone in Italy, Ms. Bastianich said that her selection sends “a message about the importance of food culturally, and it really elevates Italian food.”

Here are some two photos of the only other women to be chosen to be Grand Marshall of the Columbus Day parade: Sophia Loren (L) and Susan Lucci (R). Seeing all of these together raises some compelling questions not the least of which is "Which of the three is probably the best cook?" -BdG :-)