In the beautiful surroundings of the Salve Regina University's Ochre Court, Cindy Shugart, Middletown Education Collaborative's President, thanked the crowd who came to dance the night away at the annual Blues Bash.  She announced that, to date, the Middletown Education Collaborative has raised over $100,000 to support Middletown Public Schools with enrichment activities that could not otherwise be afforded by the annual budget since it's inception.  Met by roars of applause, she went to describe how each school in the district benefits from the generosity of those present and all of those who support the mission of the non-profit organization.

But with all business aside, the event glittered with an opportunity for guests to shed the winter dulldrums and dance the night away to the bluesy vibes of the James Montgomery Band.

The highlight of the evening was the special guest appearance of Middletown High School's very own Jacob Reilly who jammed with the group for a B.B. King number and an original composition of his own.  "This is what it is all about," explained band front man James Montgomery,"paving the way for the future for great students like Jacob.  This is why we support we the work of the Collaborative.  It's a chance to get something done for our kids."

The live auction event was led by Gaudet's own Josh Beagan, STEM teacher, who called the auction with ease and finesse.  The highlight of the auction was an acoustic guitar auctioned off by James Montgomery himself who added backstage privileges to next concert and special autographs from the members of Aerosmith into the mix. 

Although the event was a tremendous success, the Middletown Education Collaborative is far from slowing down.  Next up is the annual Duck Race at Third Beach in Middletown and then, of course, gearing up for next year's Bash!