07-R149

2007 -- S 0897

Enacted 03/28/07

S E N A T E R E S O L U T I O N

PROCLAIMING THE MONTH OF AUGUST IN PERPETUITY TO BE "RHYTHM & BLUES HERITAGE MONTH" IN THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

Introduced By: Senators Ciccone, Algiere, C Levesque, Ruggerio, and Metts

Date Introduced: March 28, 2007

     WHEREAS, Rhode Island's rhythm and blues musical heritage is deep-rooted in the

Black American Community. This enriching legacy began in the early 1940's with road bands and

local performers such as the Clarence "Bubbie" McKay Big Band and the Nate Robertson

Orchestra, who brought the feel and sound of the rhythm and blues music style to Rhode Island;

and

     WHEREAS, The local Black American Community preserved, promoted and improved

upon Rhode Island's rhythm & blues tradition through the 50's with the notable work of musicians

like Randy Ashe and the Stompers, saxophonist Louie Camp, and vocal recording groups like the

Castileers, to name just a few; and

     WHEREAS, The rhythm & blues legacy has had a beneficial and significant influence on

generations of musicians over the decades, and has enhanced the resonant quality of life in Rhode

Island both culturally and creatively for all our citizens; and

     WHEREAS, Rhythm & Blues Heritage Month was first celebrated by the Rhode Island

Rhythm & Blues Preservation Society as a month for effectively recognizing and promoting

awareness for the rhythm & blues heritage within the entertainment industry, and throughout the

state; and

     WHEREAS, It is essential that awareness and appreciation for Rhode Island's rhythm &

blues music heritage is nurtured and amplified; now, therefore be it

     RESOLVED, That this Senate of the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations

hereby proclaims the month of August, in perpetuity, to be "Rhythm & Blues Heritage Month" in

the State of Rhode Island. We proudly join the RI Rhythm & Blues Preservation Society in

urging all the citizens of the state to enjoy and participate in the celebration of Rhode Island's

vibrant rhythm & blues heritage; and be it further

     RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and he hereby is authorized and directed to

transmit a duly certified copy of this resolution to Dr. Edward A. Coates, President, RI Rhythm

and Blues Preservation Society.

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LC02715

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