In June 1987, Nick D'Avanzo along with the band Red, Hot and Blue (featuring Joe Kmiotek, Phil Silva and Steve Garcia) decided to do a benefit show for Muscular Dystrophy. That same year Nick's son Joe was born, and two years later, Joe was diagnosed with Muscular Dystrophy. As a result, dozens of benefit shows like that first one, have been run through the years to help those afflicted with this disease.
Many bands took part in these shows over the years, but the mainstays were Red, Hot and Blue, Ken Bornholdt and Friends, and Joe Rock. More recently Kenny Holly, the Harris Brothers, Pamela Betti and the Singing Websters have gotten involved.
On May 8th, 2009 Joe passed away at the age of 21. After Joe's death, and a conversation with musician Kenny Holly, Nick decided to continue these shows in Joe's memory. "Not a day goes by that I don't think of Joe. But when it comes to these shows, I know he's looking down and he's pleased".
"I would like to THANK Don Gocinski, Charlie Smith and Cathy D'Avanzo for their help in running these shows through the years. And I would like to THANK Branch 6000 of the National Association of Letter Carriers for their never ending support for the MDA, as well as the great Letter Carriers here on Long Island for their support as well. I would also like to THANK all the bands and the people who come out to support these shows. This website was created to support the bands, and to keep you informed on upcoming shows. Thanks again and God Bless!" - Nick
Many bands took part in these shows over the years, but the mainstays were Red, Hot and Blue, Ken Bornholdt and Friends, and Joe Rock. More recently Kenny Holly, the Harris Brothers, Pamela Betti and the Singing Websters have gotten involved.
On May 8th, 2009 Joe passed away at the age of 21. After Joe's death, and a conversation with musician Kenny Holly, Nick decided to continue these shows in Joe's memory. "Not a day goes by that I don't think of Joe. But when it comes to these shows, I know he's looking down and he's pleased".
"I would like to THANK Don Gocinski, Charlie Smith and Cathy D'Avanzo for their help in running these shows through the years. And I would like to THANK Branch 6000 of the National Association of Letter Carriers for their never ending support for the MDA, as well as the great Letter Carriers here on Long Island for their support as well. I would also like to THANK all the bands and the people who come out to support these shows. This website was created to support the bands, and to keep you informed on upcoming shows. Thanks again and God Bless!" - Nick
