The Colonel’s Chorus Congratulation!

Hmmmmmmmmmm-   The KEY to success for any High School Chorus is having a Choral Director who is passionate about music.  Ledyard High School’s Russ Hammond is Mr. Music.

According to the former Choral Director for Region 18 – Lyme-Old Lyme, the Ledyard Chamber Choir just returned from a weekend of competition in New York and New Jersey.

Russ Hammond says the students won their division (best of three) and also were selected as outstanding choir in the whole festival (best of 14 overall).

The Chorus received a perfect score from both judges.  One judge commented that this was the first perfect score that he has awarded in his forty year career!

Mr. Hammond writes:  “In addition, at the award ceremony, the festival director told the crowd of students (over 900) that there are fourteen festivals a year and this was only the second time in twenty two years that any group (choir,orchestra or band) has been awarded a perfect score from both judges.”

Here are a couple of links to judge for yourself.

http://www.a-cappella.com/product/14424/high-school

www.ledyardmusic.com

THE NEW DEAL FOR DEALERS

Did I ever get an education this week on what the New car dealers are going through this week as they try and second guess GM and / or Chrysler next step.;
The dealers are on edge not knowing what’s going to happen to their livelihood or that of their employees.  Jobs are on the line.  Twelve hundred to Three thousand auto dealers are expected to shutdown.
Where will it end?  The trickle down economy will only get worse when all these showrooms, repair shops etc close.
I’m very grateful to those dealership owners who didn’t want to speculate as they wait for the manufacturers phone call.  In the meantime behind the scene’s dealers are jockeying for position making side deals with other dealers.
The landscape of the automarketplace is going to change rapidly.  Consumers are not venturing into showrooms because they don’t know if their BRAND OF CHOICE is going to be around.  The uncertainty is driving the price of used cars up.  As one dealer told me its a new ballgame.  The manufacturers are swinging with a big bat and we can only swing with toothpicks.

Channel 3 Kids Camp

     What a remarkable community we live in. 

     I had the pleasure Friday night to help at the Fifth Annual Garden of Hope Auction  benefiting the Channel 3 Kids Camp.  Thanks to Channel 3 auctioneer colleague Teresa Labarbera, referee Brad Davis (WDRC), auctioneers Damon Scott & Janneen Jersey (96TICfm) and auctioneers Maurice & Charley Kaoud- (Kaud Brothers).  Our wonderful, dedicated friends and volunteers at the Kids Camp and those who came with checks and cards in hand to spend money benefiting our kids.  http://www.channel3kidscamp.org/

     Now I’m looking forward to the 1st Channel 3 Kids Camp motorcycle cruise event.  Stay tuned for details!

     Then on September 2nd the Golf Tournament that benefits the Kids Camp! 

     Four-thousand children experienced the Channel 3 Kids Camp last year…and it’s all because of your help.

SOUTH PACIFIC- Old Saybrook

OLD SAYBROOK “South Pacific”
By colhogan3

WOWWW! What a performance. Congratulations to all the students, faculty, staff, parents and community support for this weekends wonderful production of “SOUTH PACIFIC“.

The music was excellent, the acting and singing, magnificent. It really says something about the spirit of a school system when the High School Principal (Tara Winch) does the Choreography and the Superintendent of Schools (Joseph Onofrio) is the percussionist in the school orchestra.

BRAVO Michael Cronin as Emile deBecque. It’s a difficult production to sing with a French accent.

Mike Cronin with David Pittsinger

I know, because I’ve talked about this part with the current Emile, David Pittsinger in the Broadway revival at the Vivian Beaumont Theater. David, is my wife’s brother and godfather to our son.

The cast and crew have been working tirelessly on this production for months. About 6 weeks ago David visited the local cast and assisted with their rehearsal. He not only coached Mike Cronin but also the very talented Caroline St. Germain (Nellie Forbush).

Sending them off on stage in what was for many their 1st Broadway production was a huge fax signed by the Broadway Cast and posted outside the auditorium’s display case.

BRAVO Old Saybrook!!

Hogan Household – New family member

New addition to the house

By colhogan3

I love dogs.  Puppies are cute.  Last June, Duffy, our 15 year old Wheaton Terrier died.  That left 4 year old Bennie (Cocker Spaniel) to rule the roost…until last Saturday.

“What’s this!”  I exclaimed as my step-daughter walked into the house with a 8 week old SCHNOODLE (part Schnouzer and part poodle).   “Where’s your mother!”  I bellowed.  Not wanting to acknowledge this new “temporary” member to the family.

So now that some time has gone by, this little thing is greeting me at the door wagging his elongated tail, he waits for me, he jumps on me…wants to cuddle on my lap…blah, blah, blah.   I thought I was done with the baby phase, then puppy phase…diapers, accidents on the wood floors, rugs ect…ect.

But Scout is Elisa’s dog…going back to school in July when she returns to her off-campus apartment….that means we get to raise Scout while she’s studying abroad this semester in Australia…. hmmmm.

Then does this mean when Scout leaves, someone in the house is going to want to replace him with another little cuddly, cute puppy?????

A real “Pope-cycle”

You had to see it to believe it.  A tribute motorcycle (chopper) to Pope John Paul II.  The S&S powered Orange County Chopper bike was displayed Saturday in the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford for the 1000 men participating in the first Connecticut Catholic Men’s Conference.

Tribute Motorcycle to Pope John Paul II

The following: Courtesy Classybikes.com

On September 22, 2006, OCC (Orange County Choppers) listened to the vision of two men from Connecticut. The dream was to build a one-of-a-kind motorcycle as a visual tribute to honor Pope John Paul II, expressed on a rolling metal canvas.

The idea began with Phil Liquori, motivated by the love he had for Pope John Paul II. Phil asked longtime motorcycle enthusiast and accomplished national bike competitor Richard Veneziano, who also loved this pope, to be the project consultant and adviser. Together, they would make Phil’s inspiration a reality. Pope John Paul II was born Karol Józef Wojtyla, May 18, 1920. He reigned as Pope of the Roman Catholic Church from October 16, 1978 until his death on April 2, 2005, more than twenty-six years. Pope John Paul II was a spiritual leader and one of the most visible individuals in history. Coming from Poland and enduring the sufferings of that country prepared him to take on the responsibilities as the leader of the Catholic Church and developed in him an understanding that the world needed to be reconnected with spirituality. John Paul II was a tireless worker and, realizing that his time on earth was limited, he wanted to be a part of the solution to lead others to Christ. His pilgrimage to the world was almost cut short by an attempt on his life in St. Peter’s Square on May 13, 1981. The surgery to save his life took almost five and a half hours. The operation was a success, and the pope survived and was soon out of danger. After recovering from this shooting, Pope John Paul met with his assailant in prison, where he forgave him.

Many pictures have been painted, photos taken, statues built, videos recorded, and now this new tribute, a motorcycle in his honor — a medium never before used to commemorate John Paul II’s pontificate. This message will reach many people, including professionals and successful businesspeople from every industry.

THE INSPIRATION
Motorcycle enthusiasts come from all walks of life, levels of income, education and background. Together they share a common bond: “the love of the ride” and the desire to be “in the wind.” And who was one of the most traveled leaders in history? Pope John Paul II. What is visible on this bike is the airbrushed image of Pope John Paul II on the gas tank facing the rider, painted by Nubbie, from Nub Grafix of New York, a famous bike painter and airbrush artist. The gold leafing represents the instruments the pope uses to offer Holy Mass as a priest: the chalice, the paten and the ciborium. It displays the colors of the Polish flag, red and white. The Vatican flag can be found in the one-of-a-kind custom-cut inlaid wheels fabricated by OCC. It has “fish” symbol mirrors to demonstrate that priests are the fishers of men, following the apostles’ call to the priesthood. The motto or battle cry, “Totus Tuus,” on the rear fender means “I am all yours, Mary” or “All to Jesus through Mary.” The “M” on the coil cover stands for Mary, the Mother of God, to whom Pope John Paul had a strong devotion. The lower front chin scoop was fabricated to represent the pope’s mitre or head covering. The crucifix on the air cleaner/filter cover is a replica of the one he carried on his travels during his life.

This tribute motorcycle to Pope John Paul II was unveiled to the public for the first time in Farmington, Connecticut on Sunday, August 26, 2007. Now we are ready to share this
magnificent, one-year-in the-making Papal Theme Bike with the world. This pope was a personal inspiration to me and millions of others. Now this motorcycle will bring this pope’s legacy to many more.

The proceeds from the sale of this custom-built motorcycle by the YFE will be used to support a terrific cause which brings people of all ages together in a celebration, and strengthening of faith and family.

Design requirements with Tom.
_ 100” c.i. polished stock compression setup to be changed?
_ Rocker Boxes Gold middle plate
_ Coil Cover – Coat of Arms
_ Paint: Pearl/White lightening (hologram style) with blue primary and red secondary in the metal flake.
_ Enclosed Primary for safety of the rider
_ Frame: Softail (Stretched up and out) for comfort and ridability instead of their traditional Hard Tail
_ Front Fork Brace: “Be Not Afraid”
_ Front tire a 120 instead of a 90 for a stronger look RC Component Wheel Blanks
_ Rear Tire 240 RC Components Wheel Blanks
_ Seat Cardinal Red with Crucifix sown in
_ Front Shield Fairing Miter design of JP II
_ Grips Maltese Cross Red
_ Signal Lights rear Maltese Crosses
_ Wheels: Keys of the Kingdom cut and painted in
_ Brake Light: Fish Christian symbol
_ Mirrors: Fish Christian symbol
_ Oil Tank Painted Pope’s Signature with picture right side
_ Vatican Flag colors and image
_ Flag holder either welded on before paint or Harley holder
_ Rear fender painted on Papal Flag crossing Polish Flag
_ Front Headlight side view with painted Miters each side
_ Catholic World Mission insignia on left side primary drive cover

What a GREAT Recipe! Butternut Squash Soup

It’s probably been 6 or 7 years, maybe longer since we shared with our viewers the Hogan family’s Butternut Squash Soup recipe.  I am floored by the number of requests I get for a copy of the recipe.  Here it is, enjoy.

BUTTERNUT SQUASH SOUP – HOGAN’S WFSB-TV 3

(modified from Better Homes and Garden’s : Heritage of America Cookbook)

2- medium acorn squash ( about 3 pounds)

2-4 tablespoons maple syrup

4 teaspoons butter

1 head garlic ( separate and peel cloves)

1 carrot (or more) 1-inch pieces

1 onion (cut in wedges)

4 cups chicken brother

1 cup whipping cream

fresh basil or parsley for topping

Cut each squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out and discard seeds. Place squash halves, cut side up, in a shallow roasting pan. Place one-fourth of the maple syrup and 1 teaspoon butter in the cavity of each squash half. Arrange garlic, carrot, and onion around squash. Pour 2 cups of the chicken broth in pan; cover tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in a 350* over for 2 hours

(you’ll love the aroma).

Remove pan from oven; let vegetables cool. Scoop pulp from squash shells and stir into vegetable mixture.

Place half of the squash mixture in a blender container or food processor bowl. Cover and blend or process till smooth. Repeat with the remaining squash mixture. Transfer the entire squash mixture to a large saucepan; stir in the remaining 2 cups of chicken broth. Heat and stir until the mixture boils. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Slowly stir in the cup of cream. Garnish with basil or parsley.

ENJOY!

Our Neighbors are so nice.

Channel 3’s New state of the art studios in Rocky Hill sits in a corporate park.  I don’t know how many of your corporate neighbors you know where you work, but ours open their doors to us and help us raise money for the Channel 3 Kids Camp!    Thank you Rick Sweezy and Henkel Corp. (Loctite).  They dedicated the proceeds from their second annual car show to the Channel 3 Kids Camp.  BRAVO!! 

Both spectators and vendors were wonderful…even though mother nature really didn’t cooperate. 

 I had the best time making new friends and talking “CARS” with the likes of David and Rich King of Clinton, the brains and muscle behind NO RESPECT, the Blow Chevy Tri-power Tractor puller.

Then there was Frank LaBoue and his beautiful 4 door convertible Lincoln with a 460cid v8. 

Ocean Performance was on hand showing off a gorgeous blue DONZI Cigarette Boat….OMG.

I can’t wait until next year!  Thanks Rick!!!  The band was awesome!!….along with volunteers like young Sarah Hogan…(no relation) and those from the Channel 3 Kids Camp, Amber…and crew.

I’ll add the pix…..soon.

SO LONG SUMMER

Where did the time go?  I swear,  we just had Memorial Day!    What did you do on your STAYCATION?  The Hogan’s kept busy every moment of everyday.  A lot of projects at the house are now complete.  We were able to attend many volunteer events too!  Why do I not feel rested?  It hit me Saturday night on the drive home from the studio.   Again, I’ve piled my plate too high along with the expectations.  That’s ok though because the “honey-do” list is nearly complete!!!!   And now I can restfully visit the beach.

Go Shelton Natonal!

OMG, how exciting is this!  Shelton National’ Little League going to Williamsport, PA!  Congratulations ballplayers, coaches and families!  I was in Williamsport covering the Trumbull Little League Team when they won the World Series in 1989. 

The energy level on Howe Ave. this week will be electric.  Speaking as a son from the Valley, this is one awesome opportunity to show your talent, you’ve earned it, you deserve it.  As my late coach Mr. Frank Fucci at Kolbe H.S. would tell us:  “Men, you gotta wanna.”

GO GET EM!