Thursday, May 20, 2010

2010-2011 CT Forum Season Topics and Dates

After reading hundreds of suggestions about Forum topics submitted by our subscribers, volunteers, sponsors, YOUTH Forum members, Friends of The Forum and community members, we are thrilled to share with you this first glimpse at our 2010-2011 Forum Season!












We will be announcing our first round of panelists soon, but we'd still like to hear your suggestions. (And we listen!)
  • Who do you want to us to bring to Hartford for a "civil" dialogue about ugly politics, the erosion of public discourse, and the crudeness that pervades our daily lives?

  • Are you an educator? School Administrator? Parent? Concerned citizen? Who do you want to hear talk strategies and solutions to the challenges facing our schools...and our future?

  • The human brain is perhaps the real "final frontier" - a vast unexplored territory about which scientists know relatively little. What brainiacs do you want to hear talk about thoughts, memory, health, science?

  • Mystery. Romance. Historical Fiction. Memoir. Who do you love to read?
Please leave a comment and tell us what you think, and stay tuned for updates and more about our upcoming 19th Season! Cheers!

Sunday, May 2, 2010

Behind the Scenes Photos from Forum Music Fest

What happens when you bring three musical greats together for a live, unscripted Forum conversation? Nothing short of magic!

We'll be sharing some highlights and memorable behind the scenes moments from last night's Forum Music Fest over the coming weeks. In the meantime, enjoy these fantastic shots taken by the one and only Nick Caito!


Rock Legend Patti Smith autographs copies of her iconic album covers and new book, Just Kids.


Singer, Songwriter and former Fugees Producer John Forte signs autographs at the panelist meeting.




John and Patti get better acquainted during the panelist meeting.



Forum Founding President Richard Sugarman admiring Patti's poetry.



Connecticut YOUTH Forum members pose with panelists and moderator Bill Flanagan after the YOUTH Forum press conference. Check out this clip from their press conference!



Patti and John Forte swap their guitars during the sound check.


The panel takes the stage.


Patti is a Rock Star...from head to toe!



Patti looks on as John Forte wows the crowd with a powerful, inspirational performance.



John Legend's beautiful performance left the Forum audience speechless.


Patti Smith was so moved by her experience with members of our YOUTH Forum that she dedicated her performance to them. Rock on!



The perfect ending to an incredible evening-and season!


Check back soon for video clips from the conversation, and performances!