Members' Update
Long Time, No Update: Greetings from TBS headquarters. We've filled page two with event announcements and other notes for many months now. Not that we
don't like to write, but we thought we could be more clear with ads, and less repetitive. Hopefully, this members' report will keep you straight.
Executive Decision: Barbara
Isherwood, our steadfast and hardworking Executive Director, has shifted her responsibilities at the TBS and will be
concentrating on grant writing. You'll see that she is listed as such in our revised credits box. For many years, Barbara has been a pillar of strength, keeping the TBS on track and
we're glad she continues to work on our behalf. Her departure from office and events duties leaves a big hole. (We continue to seek a replacement.) Barbara will be
finding new funding sources that meet the TBS mission. Early indications are good, as we have received the nod on funding to upgrade the TBS website, an already
popular resource for fans, musicians and others in the blues world.
Eblues Crash: Subscribers to the TBS hosted email discussion group, Maple Blue-L have gone without this past month. The listserv crashed without warning
when the less than considerate folks at Primus pulled the plug on the "majordomo" programme that ran the list. Apparently listserv operations are handled only inside
various corporate environs, and "public" lists are now less common. List administrator
Ian Angus and yours truly pulled together the tools of a reboot and most
subscribers have returned to enjoy the national blues community hookup via "Yahoo Groups", a free public alternative. If you wish to learn more about this contact me directly
or visit the TBS website.
Steam Driven: The TBS celebrated its 17th Birthday this past May with a wingding at the Steamwhistle Brewery "Open Doors" event.
Raoul and the Big Time did the hallowed train hall and many members dropped by for brews, blues and great prizes. Thanks to
Sybil Taylor of Steam Whistle, and our inimitable
Dr. Julie Hill for pulling major details together. Our anniversary returned to a traditional free event (for members) after several years of staging a fundraiser dubbed "Maple Blues
Party". Finances are in better order these days, and the fundraiser was not necessary as we closed out our end of June fiscal year. Congrats to TBS treasurer
Jon Arnold for his happier auditory results.
Valiant Val: The TBS office has been quieter than normal recently, as we seek new staff. Big thanks go out to board member
Val Chamberlin who has kept phone messages, faxes, mail and membership data moving. We are further hampered at the office, as long time office volunteer
Rick Battiston has recently undergone open heart surgery. An unselfish behind the scenes worker, Rick has proudly managed a big area of the office for many years. We wish Rick a speedy recovery. You are
missed. Val's story doesn't end with her office work however. She has just put the finishing touches on a mega project - arranging a blues bound bus load of fans heading off
to Chicago for the June 8-10 Chitown meltdown. Hope you have a big time, Val.
Watch This Space: News of TBS events will continue to flow on page two, either via text or ads. (Let us know which you prefer.) We're happy to report plans
are underway for a September 29 Gospel Event, and we've pencilled in November 24 for the popular Women's Blues Revue, returning to the Danforth Music Hall. Enjoy
your read of Toronto and Ontario blues news. We're happy to have your support.
- Derek Andrews - blues@ican.net