Rick Fines plays benefit for their new Ross Quigley Youth In Sport Award

By Cecilia Nasmith

The Cobourg and District Sports Hall of Fame presents Rick Fines in concert Nov. 18 at the Columbus Community Centre – a benefit for their new Ross Quigley Youth In Sport Award.

The unique blend Rick Fines crafts includes warm-hearted blues, juke-joint folk and dock-side soul adds up to a mix that defies a genre label.

The Canadian roots-music veteran has proven himself one of the country's hardest-working musicians. With his unique voice, masterful guitar playing, wonderful stories and unique lyrics, he has toured Canada countless times – as a solo, in a duo and with a full band. He has released more than 14 albums and has been a guest on many others. He first gained attention as a member of the legendary Jackson Delta, and he has since released six solo albums, one with his own Rick Fines trio, and a critically acclaimed disc with fellow troubadour Suzie Vinnick.

He has received two Maple Blues Award nominations for Acoustic Act of the Year and Songwriter of the Year, as well as a 2021 nomination for Best Blues Album. In 2022, he shone at the Canadian Folk Music Awards, claiming Contemporary Album fo the Year, English Songwriter of the Year and Solo Artist of the Year awards.

The Cobourg concert will not only be a musical evening to remember, but also a show of support for the Hall of Fame's newest award. First presented last spring to Katrina Badali and Brendan Woodward, the award is named after one of the key players in establishing the Hall of Fame over the last few years.

Ross Quigley was a well-rounded athlete completing in several sports. He was a well-rounded student (though not a scholar) who loved all aspects of his community he would later support with his involvement and volunteerism.

In his memory, each year's award will see two students (not of the same gender) recognized for their athletic, academic and community achievement and involvement – and rewarded with a $1,000 award in support of their further education.

The Columbus Community Centre is located at 232 Spencer St. E. In Cobourg. Doors open for the concert at 7:30 p.m., and the music begins at 8 p.m. Tickets are $30, which you can purchase by contacting Bryan Marjoram at bryan.marjoram.23@gmail.com