Veterans Day is a time for remembrance. A time to remember and give thanks to the men and women who are serving our country and to those who served in the past, fighting to defend the freedoms we enjoy today. See how your neighbors will honor our veterans on pages 6 & 8.
A special salute goes out to Brigadier General John Walsh who accepted command of the Montana National Guard this past September. As a former Public Affairs Officer in the MT Guard and friend of the new Adjutant General John Walsh, I made the trip to Fort Harrison, Helena, to cover the good news on page 5.
Let’s put our hands together for the Mohegan Tribe and its management team on the successful opening of their Casino of the Wind. It was quite the line-up of entertainment this past Columbus Day weekend. Meet the celebs on pages 6 & 7. And, hurry, A Hybrid-A-Day Giveaway is still going on. You could win a new car if you’re a Player Club Member.
How about the annoying jellyfish we dealt with this past summer? Well, decades of research into the chemistry behind the colorful luminescent glow of jellyfish are resulting in several major advances in the field of biotechnology and recently earned three research scientists a 2008 Nobel Prize in Chemistry. Find out more about the possible cure for Alzheimer’s on page 16.
Thanks for reading the Resident, the Good News that Rocks! Please remember to patronize our advertisers as they’re helping to make the “good news” happen.
Since its release in 1988 the film Mystic Pizza helped launch some actors careers, such as Julia Roberts, Annabeth Gish, Lili Taylor, Vincent D’Onofrio, William Moses, and Conchata Ferrell, to mega stardom. Being the timeless coming of age story that the film represented, its innocence immortalized the film under the direction of Donald Petrie. Many locals celebrated the film at the Olde Mistick Village Arts Cinemas by watching a screening of the 20th anniversary edition of the film.
Chaz Zezulka, a Mystic Pizza extra, and current Vice-Chair Person of Groton Schools said, “In the film, I danced with Julia Roberts in one scene. I realized that getting picked to be an extra is exciting. But the reality of acting in it was different; it made me respect the profession a whole lot more. It was an amazing learning experience for me and the cast was very kind to all of us, especially Vincent D’Onofrio.”
Prior to the screening, there was a meet and greet party at the Mystic Hilton. There were several presentations from Donald Petrie, director, and William Moses, actor, who played Tim Travers in the film. The event was sponsored by the CT Commission on Culture & Tourism, Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce, Michael Blair, Prudential CT / Pequot Commercial, Olde Mistick Village Arts Cinemas, Hilton Mystic, Mohegan Sun, and the Mystic Pizza restaurant.
George Norfleet, Director of the State Film Office, said, “Since Mystic Pizza’s debut, CT became a hot spot for many major motion pictures, and we are very confident that there will be more to come.”
“Mystic Pizza does so much for this town,” said Tricia Cunningham, Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce Executive Director. “People still come up to me today and tell me about their experiences as extras in the movie. It’s really put us on the map.”
In an interview during the ceremony at the Mystic Hilton, William Moses said, “I spoke with Annabeth Gish and she is filming an episode of Brotherhood in Providence, but she told me to tell everyone that she is very grateful and she wishes she was there.” William also added, “This film was an amazing moment in my career, in the film business you would say it has legs, meaning that it is unforgettable. I can’t wait until we celebrate the 25th anniversary.” William has recently finished several Lifetime movies and will be on an episode of Ghost Whisperer.
Last August, I received an invitation from the Office of the Governor Brian Schweitzer of the State of Montana cordially inviting me to attend the Change of Command Ceremony for the Montana National Guard on September 6, 2008. Wow! Brigadier General John Walsh, brother of my Guard buddy, Jack, was taking command of the entire Montana National Guard as the new Adjutant General.
For some background info, I was Montana’s first woman to receive a Direct Commission by President Ford in 1976, when I entered the U.S. Army as a second lieutenant. I was lucky to serve in the Montana Army National Guard (MT ARNG) under the command of Major General John Womack. As a Public Affairs Officer in the 103rd Public Affairs Detachment, MT ARNG, I was even more lucky to have the opportunity to work with Colonel Jack Walsh (ret). At that time, Captain Walsh, was the State Recruiting Officer and I was the Radio & TV Officer, 103rd Public Affairs Detachment. We were dedicated to communicating the “good news” about the National Guard across thefourth largest state in the country–so big that you can fit 35 States of Connecticut inside it.
As I was ready to leave the Big Sky State and return home to Connecticut, Jack’s younger brother, John Walsh, entered the Guard as a Private First Class. I remember accompanying Jack to see John off at the Helena Airport as he headed for Fort Leonard Wood, MO, to begin his military journey, May 1980, two days after Mt. St. Helena erupted. Vividly, I recall the sense of pride on my buddy, Jack’s face as he returned a farewell salute to his brother in true military tradition.
Staying in touch with Jack via phone, always included his brother’s progress in the Guard. When the call came in from Jack that summer evening in July 2004, I sensed something was up. “What’s up?” I asked Jack.
“John’s in Iraq,” Jack said. “He’s the Batallion Commander for the 163rd.”
“Wow!” “Congrats! Your brother is doing well.”
Unlike civilians, we don’t say things like, “He’ll be okay or he’ll be fine.” Instead, we tend to share a moment of silence and then, blurt out in order-like fashion, “Keep me posted!” We know the risk factor. That’s what every man and woman takes on when putting on the uniform. Softness is camouflaged, as we know that our job is to protect and serve our country.
At Fort Harrison’s parade field, Helena, in front of a gathering of 400 Guardsmen and women, family and friends, Montana’s Governor Brian Schweitzer presents the state command flag to Brig. Gen. John Walsh, Montana’s new Adjutant General of the Guard. The passing of this flag from the Commander in Chief to General Walsh signifies the passing of his trust and command responsibilities to John.
“I accept command of Montana National Guard,” said John.
“Montana-trained, battle-tested, ready to lead,” said Governor Schweitzer about the new leader of his Force. “In these times, we expect more of the National Guard than we have in any other time in this century.”
“It’s been six decades, since we have sent the National Guard in Montana into active service in support of this country overseas-six decades!”
“I promise you, families and friends of the Montana National Guard, we will never send guardsmen and women unless they are the best trained warriors in the world!”
Brig. Gen. Walsh, pledging to take the Montana National Guard to the next level, “There is no time to rest,” said John. “Eleven soldiers are now in Billings, preparing to link up with a mobilization unit and then deploy to Iraq. More deployments will follow.” Gen. Walsh assured that the troops would be trained and ready before mobilization.
Then, the firing of historic cannons, drum rolls and “God Bless America!”
The General’s Resume:
Education:
1988 Armor Officer Basic Course
1990 University of the State of New York, BS Degree, Political Science
1993 Armor Officer Advance Course
1995 Combined Arms Service Staff School – CAS-3
1997 Command and General Staff College
2001 Instructor Tactical Certification Course
2004 Tactical Commanders Development Course
2004 Infantry Battalion and BDE Pre-Command Course
2004 Battalion Commanders Development Course
2007 United States Army War College, Masters Degree, Strategic Studies
Assignments:
• August 1987 – September 1988 – Evaluation and Readiness Officer, HQ STARC, Helena
• September 1988 – February 1990 – Platoon Leader, C/1-163d CAV, Helena
• February 1990 – March 1991 – Executive Officer, C/1-163d CAV, Helena
• March 1991 – November 1993 – Company Commander, B/1-163d CAV, Hamilton, MT
• November 1993 – March 1995 – S2/S3 Instructor, 208th RTI, Helena
• March 1995 – August 1995 – Assistant Plans Officer, HQ STARC, Helena
• August 1995 – December 1995 – Force Integration Officer, HQ STARC, Helena
• December 1995 – July 1997 – Evaluation and Readiness Officer, HQ STARC, Helena
• July 1997 – April 2001 – Military Support Officer, HQ STARC, Helena
• April 2001 – October 2001 – Operations Officer/Executive Officer, 208th RTI, Helena
• October 2001 – July 2003 – Commander, 208th RTI, Helena
• July 2003 – January 2004 – Executive Officer, 95th Troop Command, Helena
• January 2004 – June 2004 – Battalion Commander, 1-163rd Infantry (M), Belgrade
• July 2004 – November 2005 – Battalion Commander, 1-163rd Infantry (M), Hawija, Iraq
• July 2006 – July 2007 – United States Army War College, Carlisle, PA
• July 2007 – September 2008 – J-3, Joint Force Headquarters-Montana, Helena
• September 2008 – Present – 2008
Major Awards and Decorations:
• Combat Infantry Badge
• Bronze Star Medal
• Meritorious Service Badge (3 Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters)
• Army Commendation Medal (1 Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster)
• Army Achievement Medal (1 Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster)
• Army Good Conduct Medal
• Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal (1 Silver Oak Leave Cluster)
• National Defense Service Medal (1 Bronze Service Star)
• Iraqi Campaign Medal
• Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
• Humanitarian Service Medal
• Armed Forces Reserve Medal (1 Silver Hourglass)
• NCO Professional Development Ribbon (Arabic Numeral 2)
• Army Service Ribbon
• Army Reserve Component Overseas Training Ribbon
• Montana Army National Guard Distinguished Service Medal
• Montana Army National Guard Service Ribbon (4 Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters)
• Montana Army National Guard Attendance Ribbon (2 Silver and 1 Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters)
• Montana Army National Guard Physical Fitness Ribbon (3 Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters)
Effective Dates of Promotions:
Second Lieutenant – August 14, 1987
First Lieutenant – August 13, 1990
Captain – July 24, 1992
Major – July 23, 1996
Lieutenant Colonel – December 18, 2001
Colonel – May 16, 2006
Brigadier General (MT) – September 1, 2008
Blake Lewis Arrives by Whirlybird
with BeatBoxing Rhythms
Mohegan Sun’s great lineup of entertainment for Columbus Day weekend kicked off with a “Live Idols” event on Friday, October 10th at 7:00pm. Former American Idol finalist Blake Lewis touched down in a private helicopter right outside Riverview Valet Parking where an elegant limo and white-gloved chauffeur awaited his arrival about an hour before he performed a free show in The Shops concourse followed by a signing event in front of SolToro Tequila Grill. Moments before his performance, Blake greeted special members of his fan club just outside the Arena.
Greeting the Resident Good News upon being introduced by Melissa Tarlton, public relations, Mohegan Sun, Blake graciously offered me a photo op.
Taking an interest in my camera, he asked, “What model number is that Nikon?”
“A D80,” I answered.
Eager to try out my camera, Blake said, “Let me take a photo of you girls.” Taking the role of Resident photographer, he began clicking away photographs of my photographer, Melanie Watrous and me.
When I asked Blake what he likes best about his job, he answered, “I love meeting all the people around the world.” He told the Resident that he is astounded at the number of fans he has as a result of American Idol.
“I can’t believe that I get paid for doing what I love to do!” Certainly, Blake’s exuberance shines through as he greets fans and talks about his on-fire career.
Melanie and I listened to his upbeat performance while enjoying a wonderful dinner on the patio of Todd English’s premier Tuscany Restaurant.
Mohegan Sun’s “Live Idols” event features live, free performances in The Shops concourse at Mohegan Sun, followed by a merchandise signing. Blake signed copies of his debut album “Audio Day Dream,” and “Chicken Soup for the American Idol Soul,” both of which were available for purchase at Spin Street leading up to and on the day of the event. I purchased his “Audio Day Dream.” It rocks!
Blake Lewis’ talent, musical dexterity and vision existed long before making it to the final round of American Idol in 2007. With a great voice, Blake is an impressive beatboxer and has tremendous skill on the guitar, keyboard and drums. His influences range from Funk, Soul and synthesized Pop to old school Hip Hop, and he incorporates it all into his music. For his album Audio Day Dream, he hooked up with Grammy nominated singer and famed record producer Ryan Tedder, on eight tracks. Other collaborations include Maroon 5 producer Mike Elizondo and J.R. Rotem who produced Rihanna’s chart-topping hit “SOS.” Highlights on the refreshingly-unique LP include “Break Anotha,” “She’s Makin’ Me Lose It,” “End of the World” and “Know My Name,” which features Lupe Fiasco.
That evening also brought more country to the Wolf Den stage; this time it was the finalists from last season’s Nashville Star. Ageless comedian Pat Cooper visited The Cabaret Theatre both Friday and Saturday. Janet Jackson was a no show but who would notice with so many other special guests taking the stage. It was rave reviews for TV’s hottest stars when Band From TV visited the stage on Saturday. The band has more than a few familiar faces and plays some of today’s most popular covers. This group included Adrian Pasdar, Greg Grunberg and James Kyson Lee, from the hit show Heroes; Jesse Spencer from House; James Denton from Desperate Housewives; Bob Guiney from The Bachelor and Rebecca Budig from All My Children.
A popular media event was the Windfall Cocktail Reception with special guest Lindsay Price. A mix of Krug Grand Cuvee Brut Champagne, Richard Hennessy Cognac, Grand Marnier Cuvee Du Cent Cinquantenaire 150, Chambord Raspberry Liqueur and Pomegranate Juice garnished with raspberries & blackberries and get this…all topped with a Platinum Diamond and Pink Sapphire Celebration Band from… you guessed it… Tiffany & Co.
“How much?” you ask. Windfall will be offered through the month of October at Leffingwells Martini Bar and Todd English’s Tuscany for only $6200.
“So worth it!” exclaims Lindsay Price, as she modeled the sparkle for us. We media types enjoyed the Windfall minus the sparkle and the taste was awesome! We wondered whether Chairman Bruce “Two Dogs” Bozsum was going to splurge for his wife, Kelly?
The Red Carpet at 11:00pm showed off Robert Buckley, Jessica Szohr, Tracey Morgan, Lisa Rinna, Harry Hamlin and the members of Band From TV.
Country music songstress Heidi Newfield, formerly of Trick Pony, finished out the weekend with a show in the Wolf Den on Sunday. After her show, fans caught up with her at a “Signings & Sightings” event in The Shops concourse.
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Posted
on October 29th, 2008
| category: Mohegan Sun
Veterans Day is a time for remembrance. A time to remember and give thanks to the men and women who are serving our country and to those who served in the past, fighting to defend the freedoms we enjoy today. See how your neighbors will honor our veterans on pages 6 & 8.
