Donn plays red bird
HodgePodge by Charlie Hodge
Okay, so forget all my previous NHL playoff predictions about the Toronto Maple Leafs winning the Stanley Cup over the Winnipeg Jets. What a silly boy I was to write that. Clearly I was not thinking straight that day. What I meant to suggest was that it would be an Edmonton – Florida clash for the cup.
I’m predicting Edmonton in six. (Because everyone else is predicting the series to go seven games).
The Oil should win if three things happen: Edmonton goaltending continues to play amazing. (Both Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard have been playing much better than normal). Someone steps up and fills the aggressive yet effective role of the injured Zach Hyman. Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl keep the fires burning. McDavid has recorded 26 points in 16 games while Draisaitl has 25 points.
I’m not an Oilers fan but I admire the amazing skills of McDavid who I already rank as among the greatest players in the history of the game. However, until he raises the Cup he can not properly hold such a lofty title. Still, no one can dance with a puck and score at will like McDavid.
As soon as McDavid and Draisaitl win the cup once, I can stop cheering for Edmonton.
Meanwhile they remain the only hope of a Canadian based team to win Lord Stanley’s mug.
So – Go Oilers Go!
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If you’re looking for the opportunity to kick into some summer rock’n’roll fun then I have the time and place for you. Well known Kelowna musician Ryan Donn is back in the full-time music business and kicking out the tunes with his new four-piece band. They sound excellent.
You can judge for yourself as Ryan will hit the stage at Red Bird Brewing Thursday, June 12.
Tez and I had the joy last week of venturing down to the amazing Freddy’s Brew Pub to hear Ryan and his clan of joyful tunesters – and we were pleased we made the effort. Freddy’s has made some impressive expansions and additions since the last time we were there, (obviously, way too long) including a large patio that conveniently holds a full band. Not only is the deck expansive and attractive but it helps create an ambiance for music fans.
Ryan was in his camp. The Scottish Canadian singer-songwriter brought all his rhythmic acoustic charm to the opening set delivering a number of his original tunes solo before introducing his daughter Lyla – who wowed the crowd convincing listeners that the fruit did not fall far from the tree. Lyla recently placed as a top three finalist in the Revelry Top Talent Competition. If she perfects her breathing control, and the voice does not leave as she matures, then a bright music career shines.
It was an evening of two-sets with original tunes nicely blended by fan favourites from 1990’s to today. Ryan slowly weaved has talented band members onto the stage, which includes skilled Nick Garding on electric guitar, D’Arcy Booth on bass, and Dylan Ranney on drums. All three are clearly skilled however I was particularly impressed with Garding lead guitar work.
Donn’s unique, smooth vocals were impressive throughout the night including a glimpse at a couple of newly crafted tunes.
Fans who show up at Red Bird should anticipate a strong couple of sets during which Donn will hopefully play even more of his own material than he did at Freddy’s.
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A hearty congratulations to Kelowna icon Don Burnett on his 2000 radio garden show. Don and co-host Ken Salveal spent all Saturday morning hosting their live on air show outside the Burnett’s Garden Shop on Bernard Avenue. (Don is not directly connected to the store). An impressive number of callers from across the country called in to wish Don and Ken congratulations, including original cohost Greg Cooper who helped with the first garden show. Greg hung around with Donny for another 669 shows after that.
Other folks calling in to share memories included Brian Minter, Maria Byland, Vancouver rock legend John Tanner, and Ottawa Parliament buildings’ head gardener Ed Lawrence. Well done Donny!
