As an Aussie, who finds Schroon Lake firmly planted in his DNA, I can brag about the number io world class performers I have rocked out to in my life in various continents.

So when Steve Holmes told me about the upcoming gigs of Rich Ortiz, I was gobsmacked.

Ladies and gents, run, do not walk, to this special treat Sticks and Stones will showcase for you this Thanksgiving weekend: Rich Ortiz. This talented lad has performed all over the country, especially in the Adirondacks. Rich does it all: guitar, harmonica, and peddle bass -- with his feet. BAZINGA!!!

Have a listen for yourself, right here. Seriously, to have this talent here. We are truly blessed to have such a talented artist right here..

From his official bio:

“Ortiz, never a wallflower, believes he is the product of his family's cultural diversity and strengths. Since the age of seventeen he's focused all of his talents and time on his acoustic solo act, if you can call it that. Rich plays guitar, harmonica, and peddle bass (with his feet), and he turns heads with his vocals! He has opened shows for CHICAGO,REO Speedwagon,STYX, Ted Nugent, Ludacris, Hoobastank,KC and the sunshine band, Jeffrey Gaines, Ryan Montbleau Band, The Wood Brothers,Robert Randolph and the family band, Tea Leaf Green,Zach Deputy, Kracker, Merl Saunders, Melvin Seals, Jim Weider and the Drifters.

Inspired by artists like Jim Croce, James Taylor, The Beatles, Stevie Wonder and Willie Nelson, he says "I feel I have to change every gig around in order to grow as a musician." He plays six and twelve string acoustic guitar and chooses not to cultivate a target audience. He thinks "ideally the feeling of people who leave the room or listen to your CD should be one of making someone's day. What comes out of your tongue says a lot about your soul."

In 2006, Ortiz released his long awaited debut album, ‘Let It Be Life’”.