JACKSONVILLE BEACH, FL - The moment he finished performing his set with his band on Sunday, April 2, blues artist Roger “Hurricane” Wilson had no idea that the excitement was just beginning. Wilson had been in town all week participating in the city’s “Blues In The Schools” program, sponsored by George’s Music. Wilson performed at 6 different schools in 5 days in front of approximately 1000 students, along with speaking about  the history  of the blues.

   As if 3 standing ovations weren’t enough,   Wilson was then honored by George’s Music regarding his participation in the program. Then festival officials, including former Jacksonville Beach Mayor, Reid McCormick again honored Wilson by crediting him with going out of his way to “keep the blues alive”, and also as being a “great humanitarian.” McCormick referred to the work that Wilson did while on tour in Florida in October while going head to head with Hurricane Wilma.                                      

     “Rather than turn back after some engagements fell out,” McCormick said to the crowd numbering in the thousands, “Roger ‘Hurricane’ Wilson took it upon himself to launch a campaign to raise money to assist hurricane victims."  McCormick then presented Wilson with the Key to the City of Jacksonville Beach. Wilson was caught totally off guard by the presentation which rendered him momentarily speechless, but he later said that he just happened to be in the “wrong place at the right time.”

      “I was already there, I was mobile, and in a position to help. It was a very exhilarating experience,” Wilson said. “I had my van and travel trailer parked right next to Fema 18 wheelers and was unloading whatever supplies I had,” he added. “I went through Hurricane Donna in 1960 when I was 7, and at 52, I can still feel the fear and pain of that today. There was no problem for me relating to what these folks were going through.” You can find out more by visiting his website at www.hurricanewilson.com