Dear Doves,

Both the Sistine Chapel and the White House are now closed to the public, at the same time.

It is understandable why the Sistine Chapel is closed, due to the election of a new Pope.  The Cardinals are to be SEQUESTERED there until a new Pope has been elected.

Oddly, the president has chosen to close the White House (also known as the "Peoples' House") to the public, ostensibly due to the SEQUESTER regarding federal spending.  Reports have said that this wasn't necessary as the workers who take care of the visiting public are all volunteers.

I cannot recall any time before where both these institutions were closed off to the public at the same time.

YsiChrist,

Patty RP