Hard to believe that the Rolling Stones will be here in a few days! Wonder if they spent any time here the last time they played Ottawa, in 1965. In 1975, Ronnie Wood played the Civic Centre with Rod Stewart and the Faces. A friend of mine, Dave, was at that show, at the age of 13 it was his first concert. Dave was near the front of the stage and getting a bit crushed by fans, and Ronnie Wood actually grabbed him and plunked him onto the side of the stage to watch the rest of the show. Every few songs, Ronnie went over to check on Dave to make sure he was having a good time. What a guy. Speaking of Ronnie Wood, not only is he in town this weekend, his art is coming too. The Ronnie Wood Art Exhibition is on at the Congress Centre this Thursday to Sunday. Ronnie’s art is mostly portraits of the Stones, and the prices for signed lithographs range from $1500 to $10,000. You can check out some of his work at www.klimart.com. Will the man himself appear at his own exhibition? Let me know if you spot him.
If you don’t have tickets to the Rolling Stones, of course you can always win a free pair by being the 9th caller through when you hear the ‘Stones Lick of the Day’ on BOB FM. Or, you can try this: I did some research at the Ex the other day. I went on both the ferris wheel and the Cannon Ball ride. From both of these rides, you have a pretty good vantage point to see the Rolling Stones on stage. At least for a few seconds. Unless you tip ride operator and he stops the ride for you while at the top. Then you may get to see the Stones do an entire song.
The social event of the year returns this Sunday, with a bit of a twist. For years, NAC executive chef Kurt Waldele and his lovely wife Dr. Suzanne Beachemin have hosted the ‘Humane Society Garden Party’ at their Cumberland home. This year, its being billed as the ‘Urban Garden Party’ and its taking place on the terrace of the NAC. It all starts with a cocktail reception, a sumptuous 4-course luncheon, fine wine and entertainment. The Humane Society Urban Garden Party starts at noon so there’s no conflict with the Stones show. I just have to figure out what outfit will suit both an elegant garden party and a kick ass rock and roll show. Could be a bit of a challenge. Tickets for the garden party are still available but hurry because it always sells out. Check the Humane Society’s website, www.ottawahumane.ca.
