Paul Benjamin

Co-sponsored with the Rockland Historical Society. Blues promoter Paul Benjamin will tell a history of the Blues in Rockland and autograph copies of his new book, Heart of Blues:25 Years of the North Atlantic Blues Festival. Benjamin was a Marine, a Rockland policeman, and a private detective before getting involved in bringing the Blues to Rockland. In 1994, Gil Merriam, Executive Director of the Chamber of Commerce, suggested he move the festival to the Public Landing. Thus, the North Atlantic Blues Festival was born and now draws crowds of over 16,000 people. Following the program we will adjourn to the historical society museum for refreshments and conversation