Mr. Rogers is one of my all time favorite TV personalities so it is fitting that I honor him on my blog today, the “Won’t You Wear a Sweater? Day.”

Rollins College is honoring Fred Rogers (aka Mr. Rogers) with a celebration of his life, on what would have been his 80th birthday. Mr. Rogers went to college at Rollins in the ’50s.

I remember watching Mr. Rogers when I was a kid. Loving the land of make believe. His gentle nature and soothing voice always captivated me. When my family made a big move, from Canada to Florida, the one constant was that Mr. Rogers was on TV in Florida too!

I’m sure my son would love Mr. Rogers — especially the train. I think I’ll honor Mr. Rogers with a tribute video tonight with the family.

Related:

• “Rollins College Celebrates Life of Fred Rogers” at Rollins.com.
• Orlando Sentinel’s “Rollins strives to preserve neighborly spirit of Mr. Rogers.”
• Mr. Roger’s company, Family Communications.

Last night started the season for me. “American Idol” was so good. And it’s only the beginning.

I know that it’s been on for weeks already, but until they narrow it down to the top 12 and move to the new stage do I ever really start paying attention. This is the time to watch.

Last night there were so many great performances, even Chickezie smashed one out. He was amazing. I sat there wondering if it was his twin on stage. I think he brought something new to the show that we didn’t expect — and it was good.

Carly Smithson was great. Just great. Seemed that she did just what she does. She was herself.

Brooke White is one of my favorites. I think she did OK last night. The judges loved it, I liked it. If I didn’t like her a lot already I probably would have though it was a bit weak, but not all performances are meant to be over the top.

Speaking of over the top, David Hernandez did an awful performance. I couldn’t even watch the whole thing. It was embarassing. I had to fast forward. He was just trying way too hard and it was the totally wrong song choice. He is better than that, which is hopefully what America will think.

Same goes for poor little David Archuleta. It was the wrong song. Not a good performance. I’m seriously hoping that people will forgive him and remember how awesome he is from his past performances. He deserves to stay in the competition. Thankfully, because of Kristy Lee Cook’s debauchery he might get another chance.

The judges liked David Cook’s performance as well as Amanda Overmyer, but they just don’t sing the type of music I like. They are both great, but it won’t compel me to pick up the phone to vote for them because I probably won’t buy their albums. They’ll be around for awhile.

So, it’s off to a great season. I’m sucked in. Some great performances on night one of the top 12 — we’re in for a great 11 more weeks.

UPDATE:

David got the boot. It’s truly is all about song choice. That, or America just doesn’t want a stripper as its Idol.

Another UPDATE:

This is the best headline of the day (3/13/08):

David Hernandez Stripped from Idol (it will probably win a journalism award one day for this head)

There were several really good performances from the guys last night, but one stands out for me: Jason Castro’s version of “Hallelujah.” He made it look effortless. I had to rewind at least once to watch it again. If you missed it, you can view it below.

I still really like the young David Archuletta and the other David (I’ll call him stripper David) was great last night too. Once the groups combine (girls and guys in the top 12) I’ll start giving recaps about each performance every week.

Related:
American Idol official site.

I’m sitting on my sofa, watching The 80th Academy Awards, waiting for the “moment.” You know what I’m talking about, they’ve been showing them all night long: Sally Fields’ “You like me” speech, Cuba Gooding Junior’s “I love you” speech. The Halle Berry’s tearful acceptance speech for the first win from an African-American woman.

Tonight’s show is a bit boring, until the winners of best song came along, Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova These two lovely singers gave the best speeches of the night, encouraging us all to believe in our dreams. And, proof of that they are.

They made a little movie using hand-held cameras, three weeks, $100,000 and a dream. Here they are on Oscar night, each holding a golden statue, but more importantly, showing us that dreams do come true to those who believe. Two of my favorite pieces from each of their speeches are:”

• “Make art “
• “Dare to dream”
• “Don’t give up.”
• “Hope connects us all”

Here’s their live performance of the song they did for the movie, along with their inspiring acceptance speeches.

I am an “American Idol” fan. Watched every season. Called for three hours straight for the Ruben/Clay showdown. I know what I’m talking about when it comes to Idol.

I love Hollywood week. This year is preparing to be a great season. Josiah Leming got the boot. Little, homeless 19-year-old Josiah who did an incredible audition with the keyboard didn’t make it. I can only image how good the top 12 guys must be. They’d better be good since Josiah isn’t there.

I’ve read a lot of reports since Josiah got kicked off and I’m afraid this kid is going to let fame go to his head. He is in deed very talented; record labels are already calling him. I think FOX called him too. I just hope that he is able to manage the short-lived fame and use it to turn his life around.

American Idol is on tonight, the top 12 guys will be competing for your votes.