STRONGMAN & THE BIRD DID IT RIGHT

Last Friday was the 2^nd Show of the Season for BLUES ON THE RIDEAU at THE COVE INN, Westport and you can chalk up another great night for this popular Series. STEVE STRONGMAN and his blazing Gibson backed by fellow Hamiltonian Dave King on drums and "token Torontonian" Alec Fraser on bass served up rockin', high energy, Steeltown tunes to a packed house. Sounding at times like Stevie Ray Vaughan it's easy to see why this man is up for 2008 Maple Blues Guitarist Of The Year. Everyone loved his performance especially his walkabout and playing on the table during the Show earning him a standing ovation and double encore.

MARK "BIRD" STAFFORD - in Westport that day delivering his Blues In The Schools Program to both elementary schools (a real hit by all reports) joined the band for several numbers adding his sweet harmonica to the mix. Hard to believe these two had never played together before - you would have thought they had been in the same band for years.

The Cove roast beef & chicken buffet was superb as always. $750 was raised for Blues In The Schools and the David McCarthy Scholarship Fund (in memory of a very popular Westport youth who died young tragically).

"Not only were the venue, food, service and band excellent, the fact that some of the revenues from the night went to 2 worthy causes made it even more enjoyable. We'll be back for sure! 9 ½, 10's and 10+ for everything." Fernando Ribas, Kanata (first time at BOTR @ The Cove)

"Loved Steve Strongman's character, energy & guitar playing. It was all 5 stars!" Mary Philips, Hudson QC (8^th visit)

"May the Blues get ya! You keep doing this, we keep coming - Blues on and on and on...." David Anderson, Ottawa (3^rd visit)

Thanks for proving to me that my parents are COOL. I knew it but didn't want to admit it until now! 10+ for everything, 10++++ for the band!" Rob Baxter, Uxbridge ON - Came with his parents to the Show.