newsandviewsjb

NEWS&VIEWS by Jacqueline Bennett

Destination: Cheers at Faneuil Hall Boston, Massachusetts

Posted on January 6, 2013

Write-up & photos by Jacqueline Bennett newsandviewsjb.wordpress.com    174173

Most people know about the Cheers bar, formerly the Bull & Finch on Beacon Street in Boston, Massachusetts made famous by the television show “Cheers.” Less known may be that a Cheers replica bar is located at Faneuil Hall Marketplace. Dating back to 1826 when it sold meat, poultry, eggs and butter the marketplace was renovated in 1976. In the heart of the city, it still thrives today but now sells tourist type wares. Cheers at Faneuil Hall is a recreation of the set viewers saw week in and week out on the popular 1980s comedy series starring Ted Danson as Sam Malone and Shelly Long as Diane Chambers.

Wall memorabilia includes photos of the cast, as well as. some of the famous visitors to the bar. The Faneuil Hall location is well – cheerful- with plenty of light streaming into the upstairs cafe through the solarium effect full length windows engulfing the restaurant which looks onto a brown brick walkway. There is also an outdoor patio and a downstairs bar.  177

Greeting visitors is an Indian statue resembling one that welcomed the ole “Cheers” gang  (sporting a Boston Red Sox cap in the accompanying photo as a tip of the hat from our group to “Cheers” pitching closer Mayday Malone. )

The Cheers menu is typical Americana pub fare – soups, salads, burgers, sandwiches and New England seafood. What makes them stand-out, however, is that many are named after the beloved cast such as the Giant Norm Burger, appetizers dubbed Sam’s Starters, Woody’s Garden Greens and Ma Clavin’s Boston Clam Chowda. Of course, there is beer and an interesting cocktail menu with drinks  like the “Boston Tea Party.” Nearby is a Cheers gift shop that honors Cheers bucks available on their website.

The best part of stopping into Cheers may just be, being able to say you were there – where? Oh yes, that place where “everybody knows your name.”

Open seven days a week 11 a.m. – 2 a.m. Closed Christmas Day. Food is served until midnight. A kid’s menu is available until 9 p.m. Entertainment on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. On 84 Beacon Street 617-227-9605, at Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Quincy Market South, 617-227-0150.

Categories: NEWS

Tagged: , , , , ,

Simple & Doable – The Healing Power of Twenty-Six Acts of Kindness

Posted on December 28, 2012

Dec. 14, 2015 Follow-up: Three years ago on December 14 as a reporter for a local newspaper, I was in Simsbury, Connecticut to cover a morning press conference where Richard Blumenthal, a United States senator from Connecticut, was slated to make an annoucement during the 3rd Annual Heroes & Hounds Military Working Dogs Drive. Organized by the Simsbury animal control officer, the drive was a holiday collection effort for military canines and their handlers serving in war zones. The senator was to make an announcement about legislation to strengthen protection and support for military working dogs.

The announcement was delayed as town officials waited for a television news crew slated to attend. Word came that the news crew had been diverted en route to Simsbury to a school shooting in the southern part of the state. Sen. Blumenthal went ahead with his announcement then quickly left. We were told he was headed to the scene down state. It turned out that a gunman had made his way into Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown where he murdered 20 children and six educators.

It was a bone-chilling day that left many feeling helpless. Ann Curry, then a newswoman for NBC, subsequently suggested that people respond by performing twenty-six acts of kindness in memory of the lives taken at Sandy Hook. Below is the commentary I wrote at the time about the healing power of acts of kindness which I described as simple and doable. Despite the depth of the Sandy Hook tragedy and the tragedies that have followed, I still believe in the power of kindness and that good can overcome evil. – JB

 

 My original piece is below.

Commentary by Jacqueline Bennett newsandviewsjb.com 009

 

Rather than become immobilized by a polarizing debate on gun control in the aftermath of a tragedy beyond words in Newtown, Connecticut, “twenty-six acts of kindness” speaks to the power of the individual and the healing power of good over evil. NBC newswoman Ann Curry suggested over time that everyone perform twenty-six acts of kindness, large or small, in memory of the twenty first graders and six educators massacred by a gunman at Newtown’s Sandy Hook Elementary School on December 14, 2012.

 

It is far from the first time horrific acts of violence have shocked the nation. After each one, arguments rage about gun control. In the wake of the Newtown tragedy, the debate has expanded to society’s glorification of violence on television and in video games, whether or not armed guards should be placed at every school, whether or not teachers should be armed and a twenty-four hour competitive news cycle that makes perpetrators of outrageous crimes larger than life. Yes, it is important for those discussions to continue and solutions to be sought.

 

But in truth, outrageously violent crimes have happened so many times in recent years that it has left people to wonder if we are powerless to stop such horrors, to effectively mold public policy, to become better as a society. The answers to those questions remain to be seen.

 

However, we are not powerless to make our own choices, to control our own behavior. We can change the television channel, we can decide what our discretionary money is spent on and most of all we can, each day, decide how we are going to go about living our lives. We can smile, we can say a pleasant hello, we can mail a greeting card, we can hold a door for someone, we can let someone step ahead of us in a check-out line, we can allow another driver into a line of traffic, we can praise a job well-done and we can say thank-you. There is so much we can do to honor the lives lost in a healing and uplifting manner.

 

Twenty-six acts of kindness – simple and doable.

Categories: NEWS

Tagged: , , , , ,

Update : Reindeer Return to Dzen Farm for Christmas 2015 Season

Posted on December 23, 2012

Update : After a one year hiatus due to a dispute over road access with a housing developer and the town, reindeer have returned for the Christmas 2015 season to the Dzen Tree Farm in South Windsor, Connecticut. Happily prancing about on the day I stopped by, a visiting mother and baby are occuping the stalls for Misteltoe and Belle. Meanwhile, also energetic Max and Jack are part of the Dzen Family. Not to be confused with another Dzen farm across the street, the reindeer can be visited at the 125 Barber Hill Road site owned by John Dzen, Jr. The public is welcome. Go to dzentreefarm.com to learn more.

No wonder Santa can depend on his reindeer for night vision -look at this stock of carrots.

No wonder Santa can depend on his reindeer for night vision – look at this feed stock of carrots.

015

They’re back! A visiting mother & baby reindeer.

 

 

 

020

You guess – am I Max or Jack?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

003

Photo by Jacqueline Bennett December 2015

 

 

 

Below read original 2012 story.

Story & Photos by Jacqueline Bennett newsandviewsjb 

002005

 

“Up on the housetop, click, click, click……..”

 

With Christmas Eve just hours away and Santa Claus preparing for his big event, rest assured that in addition to Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen and the rest of Santa’s traditional reindeer sleigh team  – Mistletoe and Belle are also ready.

 

Mistletoe and Belle are reindeer that have been an added attraction at Dzen Christmas Tree Farm in South Windsor, Connecticut this season. Today is the last day visitors can come by to see them – for obvious reasons.

 

“They have to have time to get to the North Pole,” said farm owner John Dzen, Jr.

 

Getting them to Connecticut was not easy. Although legislation was passed in Connecticut two years ago making it possible to have reindeer in the state for one month, the cost to rent them for such a limited amount of time was high. Ten years had passed since Dzen had reindeer on his family farm, when his children were small. Deer ownership was subsequently banned in the state because of concern about disease found elsewhere, in other types of deer, in particular chronic wasting disease. 009

 

Motivated by a suggestion to buy reindeer for their family farm from his- now grown- oldest son, a vocational agriculture student at Rockville High School, and armed with research showing reindeer had not been affected by the disease in question, Dzen successfully sought assistance from state Rep. Bill Aman and state Sen. Gary LeBeau. Dzen was even called upon to testify on the matter before a legislative committee .

 

“My son said ‘change the law’,” John’s wife Jennifer Dzen recalled during a December 20 interview at the farm.

 

That was a year ago as the family sat around the table discussing the idea. Spurred on by his son’s high level of interest in raising reindeer and high level of commitment to his studies, John Dzen, Jr. decided to move forward with the suggestion. Several arduous months later, a new law took effect on November 1 of this year. So, Dzen rented Mistletoe and Belle from a herd in New York with an agreement to trade them for ownership of baby reindeer this coming spring. Two baby reindeer are expected to arrive at the Dzen Christmas Tree Farm in March.

015

 

“Yes, we’re going to become reindeer farmers,” said Jennifer Dzen.

008

 

The challenge of getting the law changed has been quite a journey for John Dzen. Jr.

 

 

 

 

 

“It’s been overwhelming, frustrating,” he said, “But it has been rewarding when you see kids nose to nose with the reindeer and their eyes light up.”

Despite the expense and tremendous amount of work involved and special licensing requirement, having Mistletoe and Belle has also been a wonderful learning experience said Jennifer Dzen.

“You know the song about, ‘click, click click.’ Reindeer hoofs actually do make a clicking sound due to a ligament in their hoofs,” she explained.

The clicking, she said, enables the reindeer to keep track of each other and stay together in white out conditions common in habitats such as the tundra.

Not just youngsters, but all age groups have been fascinated with the reindeer.

“A senior (citizen) bus stopped by. And some grandparents, who came to pick out a tree, came back to the farm with their grandchildren to see the reindeer,” noted Jennifer Dzen.

Of course the question on the minds of the children who come to visit has been, “What are Santa’s reindeer doing in Connecticut?” Not to worry, Jennifer Dzen said the children are told that the farm was chosen as a Santa’s helper site; and that Mistletoe and Belle will be ready to head to the North Pole for the most magical night of the year!

Categories: Christmas Treats, NEWS, Reindeer in Connecticut

Tagged: , , , , ,

Windsor, Connecticut Torchlight Parade Ushers In Holiday Season

Posted on December 11, 2012

Article & Photos by Jacqueline Bennett newsandviewsjb

006

Much to the delight of spectators, the annual Torchlight Parade featuring emergency vehicles adorned with colorful lights and decorations helped usher in the holiday season December 8 in Windsor, Connecticut. Following a Carol Sing on the Windsor Town Hall portico, the Torchlight Parade made its way through historic Windsor Center.

“The cooperation among everyone that volunteers is great. It’s a nice family event,” said Windsor Firefighter Tom Dillon of the Wilson Company, who has organized each Torchlight Parade over the past ten years, including the town’s inaugural one.

Engine One.

Engine One.

Firefighter on parade.

Firefighters on parade.

Windsor Elks.

Windsor Elks.

Rounding the corner off Broad Street.

Rounding the corner off Broad Street.

Four Seasons Landscaping won best entry.

Four Seasons Landscaping won best entry.

Happy Holidays!

Happy Holidays!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Initially, explained Dillon, the carol sings and torchlight parades were held on separate nights. However, he said it has worked out well to combine the timing for both the festive events sponsored by the Windsor Volunteer Fire Department, Windsor Federal Savings and First Town Downtown.Playing holiday music, the Windsor Fife & Drum Corps led the parade. With the likes aboard of Frosty the Snowman and the jolly ole’ elf himself – Santa Claus – firetrucks, ambulances and cruisers from Windsor, South Windsor, Glastonbury, Simsbury, West Berlin and Suffield participated. Local businesses also took part and Four Seasons Landscaping won best overall entry. The team from South Windsor came away with out-of town bragging rights for best fire apparatus entry.

Sharran Selig Bennett accepts the first place trophy, on behalf of Four Seasons Landscaping, from Ashley of First Town Downtown and Windsor Firefighter Tom Dillon.

Sharran Selig Bennett accepts the first place trophy, on behalf of Four Seasons Landscaping, from Ashley of First Town Downtown and Windsor Firefighter Tom Dillon.

South Windsor accepts trophy for best fire apparatus entry.

South Windsor accepts trophy for best fire apparatus entry.

From the town center the Torchlight Parade rolled down behind town hall to enjoy an old fashioned bonfire. with wood donated by T. J. Logging, Dillon said it took him a hour to build the bonfire which was then lit by his wife Margaret and daughter Jennifer.

“People don’t get to enjoy bonfires much anymore,” he noted.

enjoying hot chocolate, Ron Eleverd and his daughter Analiese.

Enjoying hot chocolate, Ron Eleveld and his daughter Analiese.

Windsor Firefighter Chris Baker with his wife Hope and their daughter Ava, 2.

Windsor Firefighter Chris Baker with his wife Hope and their daughter Ava, 2.

Old Fashioned bonfire.

Old Fashioned bonfire.

Folks gathered ’round the bonfire with cups of hot chocolate and other treats. Members of  the Windsor High School Key Club helped at the refreshment table.

Key Club.

Key Club.

A carol sing was held outside beautiful Windsor Town Hall.

A carol sing was held outside beautiful Windsor Town Hall.

Frosty the Snowman was part of the Carol Sing.

Frosty the Snowman was part of the Carol Sing.

Strolling historic Windsor, Conn. town green after the 2012 Torchlight Parade.

Strolling historic Windsor, Conn. town green after the 2012 Torchlight Parade.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Preceding the parade, the carol sing featured Karen Resch and a puppet show of favorite hoilday characters- Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and Frosty the Snowman. Between his appearances in the parade and the carol sing, Frosty was obviously very busy Saturday night!

Categories: NEWS

Tagged: , , , , ,

In Afghanistan 6,000 Miles Away – A Dad Is Still A Dad

Posted on December 6, 2012

Write-up & Photo by Jacqueline Bennett newsandviewsjb036

For me my father was the definition of what a dad should be. He was not only a provider and protector but he cared that his family was properly bundled up for winter’s cold weather and that we used Ivory soap and gentle tissues that would not be too harsh on our skin. He walked on the outside of sidewalks to keep us safe from the roadways and always opened doors, pulled out chairs and helped his girls on with our coats.

So I was quite touched to be reminded of what it means to have a father like that while covering a recent holiday event. During a Christmas parade, I snapped a photo of a firefighter handing out candy to children. Among them were two little girls whose father, as it turned out, is currently deployed in Afghanistan. Their mother was thrilled by the thought that he might see the news photo of his girls online despite the distance between them.

Suddenly, she looked down and said, “Yes, I have the girls bundled up.”

Her words spoke volumes about her husband. This is a man who though fighting a war, would still be concerned that his daughters were dressed warmly while outside in the cold. What struck me too is that this seemingly simple, ordinary worry was symbolic of much more, and representative of all American troops stationed far from home. For some it may be easy to forget that beyond the term ‘troops’ there is humanity, individuals with lives that matter. So, how important and poignant to be reminded that 6,000 miles away in Afghanistan – a dad is still a dad.

Categories: NEWS

Tagged: , ,

Spirit of Charlie Brown Christmas Tree Overcomes Hurricane Damage in Connecticut Community

Posted on November 30, 2012

Story & Photos by Jacqueline Bennett newsandviewsjb

004

“O Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree – Your branches green delight us! They are green when summer days are bright, They are green when winter snow is white, O Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree, Your branches green delight us!” Lyrics from the English version of O Christmas Tree.

The lighting of what was called a ‘Charlie Brown’ Christmas Tree in Manchester, Connecticut November 29 symbolized more than the joyful spirit of the holidays. Organizers said it also represented the resilience of communities throughout the state ravaged by Hurricane Sandy. Compared to many shoreline towns, Manchester sustained minimal damage from the storm a month ago. However, Sandy did hack off several feet from the once 37 foot tall spruce on the front lawn of St. James Church on Main Street where the community traditionally gathers for an annual tree-lighting ceremony.

Lacking enough time to bring in a replacement, the Downtown Manchester Special Services District, which sponsors the event, faced a dilemma. Rather than skip the tree decorating and lighting, downtown district leaders opted to celebrate the season by borrowing the concept of a sparse but heartfelt Charlie Brown Christmas Tree popularized by the beloved Peanuts character.

‘Charlie Brown’ Christmas Tree lighting ceremony in Manchester, Conn.

Thursday night community members came out to show support for the lighting of the approximate 15 foot stump of a tree, which was decorated and surrounded by depictions of various Peanuts characters previously created by a teacher and students from Bennet Academy for another town activity. When Mayor Leo Diana was joined by the principal and students from Martin Elementary School to hit the switch illuminating the tree, “ohs’ and “ahs” from the crowd made it clear the shortened height of the evergreen did not cut down on its festiveness.

The Summit Singers

The Summit Singers

Silk City Barbershop Chorus

Silk City Barbershop Chorus

The event also featured carols and other holiday tunes from the Summit Singers, the Silk City Barbershop Chorus and the Manchester Citadel Band of the Salvation Army. WTIC AM morning sportscaster Scott Gray served as master of ceremonies, and the jolly ole’ elf himself, Santa Claus, arrived on a firetruck with lights flashing and sirens blaring. “Have I been naughty or nice?” Gray asked. “Yes,” replied Santa.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     

 

Categories: NEWS

Tagged: , , , , ,

Perfect Weather Accompanies 76th Thanksgiving Day Road Race in Manchester, CT

Posted on November 23, 2012

Article & Photos by Jacqueline Bennett newsandviewsjb.wordpress.com 

Perfection. That sums up the weather that accompanied the 76th Thanksgiving Day Road Race in Manchester, Connecticut. Sunny skies and temperatures in the high 40 to low 50 degrees were an ideal compliment to what is considered the state’s biggest sporting event. In addition to the 15,000 runners and walkers, including elite competitors, the race drew an estimated 30,000 spectators.

One die hard tradition at the Manchester Road Race is its exact 10:00 a.m. start time. In a television interview with FOX CT which broadcast the race live, the race director explained the importance of  the exact start is tied to keeping the event within a dependable time frame so that participants can enjoy their personal traditions – such as making it home for Thanksgiving Day dinner. New this year was the addition of a cannon blast which followed the official start.

Donn Cabral.

Delilah DiCrescenzo.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Steeped in traditions, the race has been described as an interesting mix of a small town atmosphere concurrent with a big time competition. And, this event has become about more than just what takes place on the near five mile course. It is also about what goes on around it.

Bill Doll of Manchester, Conn.

For Bill Doll, it’s a B.Y.O.L. day – bring your own ladder. The Manchester resident and amateur photographer brings a ladder, places it on the race route and perches himself atop to snap pictures.

“I’ve been coming to the race for 19 years,” said Doll.

He is just one of innumerable racers and race-goers with annual race day rituals. For others who gather at the same location each year, it’s a yearly reunion. Some folks met at a friend’s house within the course route. A handful of spectators got a bird’s eye view from the roof of a downtown building. Meanwhile, some people situated themselves by the bands that were positioned along the route – this year there were fifteen bands. Still others made it a family affair – dressing alike and running the race together. Many spectators tailgated and wore colorful costumes as did some of the racers, a number of whom brought their own  individual cheering sections. Among the costumes that could seen were Sponge Bob, a Christmas Tree and a super long grinder sandwich. 

Outside the Army Navy Club.

“This isn’t a road race anymore, it’s a costume party,” said one spectator.

Oh yes, who could forget another time honored Manchester Thanksgiving Day Road Race tradition – stopping in afterwards at a favorite watering hole. 

Each year the Army Navy Club graciously opens its doors to the runners, many of  whom stretch out inside as they prepare to take their spots in a massive race line-up. It was said to have taken close to thirteen minutes for all the participants to make it across the start line in front of St. James Church on Main Street.

First time participant Aaron Braun of Flagstaff, Arizona won tying the record with a time of 21 minutes, 19.37 seconds. A crowd favorite, Olympian Donn Cabral of Glastonbury, Conn. came in third with a time of 21:33. The first woman across the finish line, Delililah DiCrescenzo of New York City clocked in at 24:34.

Members of Tolland High School Class of 2010 had some fun, dressing up in costumes.

However, long after the world class runners finished – the race continued.

Up on the roof.

Inside the Army Navy Club, Mr. Klukas and Mr. Packer served donuts, coffee and hot cocoa.

“Main Street is still filled with runners, from side to side, as far the eye can see,” the race commentator said as 11:00 a.m.approached, noting that at that point the last runner was at approximately the one mile mark.

Katherine Martin and Nicole Claps of East Haddam do warm-up stretches.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A sea of seemingly endless runners went on and on…. Once back on Main Street they crossed under the huge American flag that had been raised by the Manchester Fire Department and headed for the finish line  – and rows of bottled water.

Organizers had worried they could not top the fabulousness of the 75th anniversary race last year. Their worries were for naught. The 76th Manchester Road Race went off with its usual energy, competitiveness and wholesome fun – carrying on one of New England’s most enjoyable traditions!

Categories: NEWS

Tagged: , , , , , ,

76th Thanksgiving Day Road Race On Tap in Manchester, Connecticut

Posted on November 21, 2012

Write-up & photo by Jacqueline Bennett newsandviewsjb.wordpress.com 

2010 Manchester Road Race

The start of the 76th Manchester Thanksgiving Day Road Race is merely hours away in Manchester, Connecticut. It is the town’s biggest annual event, attracting thousands of participants and spectators. Excitement begins building in town a few weeks before race day. Runners can be seen jogging the sidewalks along Main Street on practice outings, signs go up in front of local restaurants inviting runners in and sweatshirts from past Manchester road races become popular attire.

At exactly 10 a.m. the race is scheduled to get under way in front of St. James Church on Main Street. The 4.748 mile course draws world class runners, as well as, aspiring young runners and many area folks who have made it part of their Thanksgiving Day tradition.

According to the Manchester Road Race website: as of November 21, there were 15,000 participants registered; the race will be broadcast on Fox Sports Radio 1410 AM; among the highlights will be the return for the 50th consecutive race of Amby Burfoot, a nine-time winner who first ran the race in 1963; for the fourth year http://www.CT.com is organizing a Costume Contest for registered runners ( those who want to take part are asked to gather in Center Memorial Park between 8 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. wearing their race bibs on the front of their costumes – the winner will receive a $500 Visa gift card); from the proceeds of last year’s race, $80,000 has been donated to charitable causes.

Once again, I’m hoping to grab a spot near the Army Navy Club to snap photos.

Categories: NEWS

Tagged: , , , , ,

Gratitude Focus of Manchester,CT 2012 Veterans Day Observance

Posted on November 11, 2012

Article & Photos by Jacqueline Bennett newsandviewsjb.wordpress.com

Gratitude to America’s service men and women was the focus of  the simple, respectful 2012 Veterans Day Observance held November 11 at 11:00 a.m. at Manchester Memorial Hospital. A small parade made its way from American Legion Post #102, about a quarter mile to the hospital.

According to the ceremony program, in 1920 MMH was dedicated as a memorial to Manchester residents who died during World War I. It was then rededicated in 1970 as a memorial to veterans of all wars.

“When I think of  Veterans Day, I think of two words – thank you and heroes,” Manchester Deputy Mayor Jay Moran told the group gathered in front of MMH.

Manchester, Conn. Deputy Mayor Jay Moran.

Moran spoke of a recent visit he and other local officials made to Bethesda Memorial Hospital where they met an Ellington, Conn. soldier who lost both his legs in combat, as well as, other young men and women who also lost limbs in the wars in Iraq or Afghanistan. Yet, the deputy mayor poignantly pointed out, they remained patriotic and glad to be alive.

“I was in awe. I was in tears. I was proud of the way they served our country,” Moran said.

“We need to take care of our veterans,” he added, noting to help do so Manchester has partnered with the Purple Heart Association.

The ceremony was called to order by Benton “Ozzie” Osgood who served as a Marine in Korea.

Benton Osgood, President of the Manchester Veterans Council

An opening prayer and benediction were offered by Father Lou Cremonie – Eastern Connecticut Health Network Chaplin at MMH, and welcoming remarks came from Dennis McConville, SVP of Planning, Marketing & Communications for ECHN.

Guest speaker Mark Tweedy talked about the combined decades of military service given by himself, his father and brothers.And, he expressed pride in Manchester’s service to the nation dating back to the Revolutionary War.

The observance included a wreath laying by a monument in front of MMH by members of American Legion Auxiliary Post #102 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary Post #2046, the Pledge of Allegiance led by Scot Holmes, an a cappella rendition of the national anthem and a recitation of the poem “In Flanders Fields” by Mary Kelly, past chapter commander of the Disabled American Veterans Chapter #17.

Mary Kelly recites, “In Flanders Fields.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As those in attendance either saluted or placed their hands over their hearts “”Taps” was played by Jim Mosher – Salvation Army Past Sub-Base Chaplain followed by Robert Carrana of the Manchester Regional Police and Fire Pipe Band performing “Amazing Grace” on the bagpipes. Retirement of the Colors was done by members of American Legion Post #102, Disabled American Veterans Chapter #17, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post # 2046 and Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter #120.

Roberta Pacheco of South Windsor, Conn.

Roberta Pacheco of South Windsor summed up the sentiments of the ceremony, carrying a sign that read: Thank You to Our Veterans.

Categories: NEWS

Tagged: , , , , , ,

Hartford Veterans Parade Held On Consummate New England November Day

Posted on November 5, 2012

Article & Photos by Jacqueline Bennett newsandviewsjb

The 2012 Veterans Parade in Hartford, Connecticut was held Sunday, November 4. It was a consummate November day in New England characterized by sunny skies, crisp, cool air and some colorful leaves still clinging to the trees. The perfect autumn weather was in marked contrast to the high winds and rain brought by Hurricane Sandy a week earlier that devastated areas along the Connecticut shoreline, as well as, parts of New York City and the New Jersey shore.

Although there was a solid turnout for the parade, it did not appear to have been as large as in past years – possibly a consequence of the recent weather event that left thousands of residents without electrical power for days. As of Sunday night, Connecticut Light & Power and United Illuminating had reportedly reached their goal for that time frame, to have 98 percent of power restored.

The 2012 Veterans Parade in Hartford, Conn. passes through the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Arch.

  

Newington High School Marching Band.

Patriot Guard Riders.

Popular Connecticut broadcaster, veteran Al Terzi.

 

 

Stepping off near the state capitol building the parade made its way beneath the Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Arch then through the downtown, featuring numerous contingents of veterans.

 

 

 

 

Gov. Dannel Malloy and Lt. Gov. Nancy Wyman marched, as well as, members of Connecticut’s Congressional delegation. Local television and broadcast celebrities Al Terzi and Brad Davis, both veterans took part.

Among others participating were the governor’s horse and foot guards, the New England Air Museum, various fife & drum corps – including one from the Connecticut shore – Westbrook. In addition there were high school marching bands, bagpipe units and marchers representing Colonial era soldiers who shot off muskets en route.

Congressman Joe Courtney, Secretary of State Denise Merrill, US Senator Dick Blumenthal, State Attorney General George Jepsen, Congressman John Larson.

CT Trees of Honor was also represented. Headed by Sue Martucci who rode in the parade, the CT Trees of Honor committee is working to establish a memorial grove of trees in Middletown to honor the American military personnel who lost their lives in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Brad Davis who served in the US Marines.

 

 

A moment of silence was held at 1:30 p.m. The Patriot Guard Riders who attend military funerals in an attempt to keep war protesters at a respectful distance, had a strong presence in the parade –  their motto, “Standing for those who stood for us.” As service men and women passed by many spectators expressed gratitude, shouting out “Thank You.”

Categories: NEWS

Tagged: , , , , , ,