This past Sunday Carlene Crom had her official CD release event on Veterans’ Day in conjunction with the Rommel–Conklin VFW Post #7064 at the Fremont-Mills School in Tabor, Iowa.  Last summer Carlene wrote a song called “Hear Freedom Ring” for the dedication of the Veterans’ War Memorial Wall in her home town.  A portion of the proceeds from the sale of her latest CD A View From The Porch Swing are being donated to the VFW in support of this display, and Carlene was able to present the VFW with a check from sales to date.

As part of this day of appreciation, I was also honored with a plaque from Carlene in appreciation for work and time put into her CD.  I was greatly humbled to receive this surprise recognition.  I’m glad to have contributed some part to the value and enjoyment of this musical work and hope many people are blessed by hearing it.  It was also a privilege to be a small part of helping Carlene support her local VFW and those commemorated by the Memorial Wall and other services the VFW provides.

At the end of August I wrote that we were starting the recording of Dee Brestin’s Idol Lies.  The local voice, Eunice Arant is a friend of the author and Tesco Productions had the privilege of doing the recording.  The book speaks about the gifts God gives us that sometimes become idols we worship in place of God Himself – often without even realizing it.  Dee offers hope and guidance to leaving them behind through the Lord’s Word and the testimony of herself and others she writes about.  Although the book primarily addresses women, its application is for anyone.  Oasis Audio has finished all the final production and manufacturing,  making the CDs available through their site and other outlets.

Carlene Crom has finished her latest CD A View from the Porch Swing – an acoustic compilation that includes songs begun three years ago at Tesco Productions, two other tunes, and new recordings made here the past couple of months. Most of the material is written by Carlene, and touches on life’s events, relationships, country and Creator. Also included is a heart-warming tune “Dandy Lyin’ Day” that the family of Susie Schaaf was glad to have her use. From trials, loss of all but your loved ones, or even that loss, to joy in life’s simple and grand treasures and to hope beyond – there’s a piece here that will touch your mind and soul. The release is being well received – and rightly so. You can find out more about Carlene and her music on her facebook page. Two samplers of her music are posted in our audio clips under Gospel and Americana.