movin` on - Hank Snow

Nova Scotia Country Music Hall of Fame
A Word from the Hall of Fame President – Carol Penney
Hank Snow Country
Music Centre &
Museum
148 Bristol Ave
P.O. Box 1419
Liverpool, NS
B0T 1K0
PHONE:
902-354-4675
Congratulations are extended to vocalist R. Dale Verge and musician
Floyd Spicer, who will be inducted into the NSCMHF on
September 19, 2009. We look forward to welcoming them into the
NSCMHF. Dale and Floyd will both be showcasing their talents at the
induction ceremonies. This promises to be an event you won’t want
to miss.
As President, I would like to invite and encourage our membership,
and the interested public in general, to attend any of our regular
Board meetings. These meetings are open to you, and are usually
held the first Monday of every month, with the exception of this past
June, when our meeting was held on June 8. We regularly meet at the Atlantic
Superstore, Bridgewater, or at the home of one of our board Members. If you are
interested in attending one of our meetings to see what we are all about, please contact
me at (902) 644-3135 for the location of our next meeting. Also, we will be soon inquiring
about interested persons who would like to sit on the Board of Directors. Our new Board
of Directors will be put into place at our Annual Meeting in September, and it is not too
soon to be thinking about that. Time goes by very quickly.
Like the song says, “See You in September”, at our 12th Annual Induction
Ceremonies.
Carol Penney, President
SUMMER 2009
Volume 15, #2
“SNOW NEWS IS GOOD NEWS”
Newsletter
Special Interest
Articles:
* Tribute
* Society News
* Museum News
* Souvenir Shop
* Photos
TOLL FREE:
1-888-450-5525
Inducted into the Nova Scotia Country Music Hall of Fame
FAX:
902-354-5199
Dale Verge and Floyd Spicer are both highly accomplished musicians who have
spent a lifetime in music. Both have toured overseas and have performed
extensively in Nova Scotia. Dale and Floyd have performed with numerous bands
and still perform regularly to this day. Dale started his current band “Dale Verge &
Doin’ Country” almost ten years ago and still tours with them to many parts of Nova
Scotia and was co-founder of the Halifax based group, Maritime Express. Floyd
Spicer plays in the house band at Nine Mile River after a career with bands such as
the Stringbusters, George Brothers & Ole Blue, Easy Country, Silverdollar and
Country Generations. Between them, Dale and Floyd, have been privileged to play
on stage with such greats as Kitty Wells, Anne Murray, Carroll Baker, Mac Wiseman,
k.d. Lang, Forrester Sisters, Don Gibson, Ronnie Prophet, Graham and Eleanor
Townsend, and Wilf Carter. These two musicians have provided instrumental and
vocal backup for numerous local musicians. Dale’s career in the military allowed him
the opportunity to play in Germany at local Stat Halls in Lahr and Hanover, as well as
military base clubs and mess halls. Floyd not only toured though the Maritimes and
Ontario, but also in the USA and Australia. Both Dale and Floyd are home-grown
musicians who had little formal instruction but instead refined and honed their
musical talents early on through hard work and perseverance. Dale was blessed with
a sister and brother, who sang along with him helping him to develop his natural
ability. He began performing at 6 years of age and brings his unique vocal
Interpretation to the songs he performs. At 12 years of age, Floyd bought a guitar
from a T. Eaton catalogue and practiced chords, playing every day in front of a mirror
to get the right “stage presence.” He too was blessed with a brother who had a band
resulting in a lifetime career through which he expresses his distinctive musical
renditions on not only acoustic or electric guitars, but also expertly on the pedal
steel. The Nova Scotia Country Music Hall of Fame has chosen for its 2009
inductees, two of Nova Scotia performers who at the beginning of their careers had
very similar musical experiences. Both are competent in not only the category in
which they were nominated, (and subsequently will be included) but are also
multitalented musicians.
Congratulations Dale and Floyd!
E-MAIL:
[email protected]
We’re on the Web!
See us at:
www.hanksnow.com
MOVIN’ ON
19th Annual Hank Snow Tribute
AUGUST 13 – 16, 2009
A new event has been added to the 19th Annual Hank Snow Tribute being held
August 13, 14, 15, 16, 2009 at the South Shore Exhibition Grounds in Bridgewater, NS.
This annual country music festival features entertainment for the whole family and
instrumental workshops for musicians of all levels.
The Hank Snow
Tribute is an annual
event put on by The
Friends of Hank Snow
Society, a registered
Nova Scotia charity.
The proceeds from the
event go towards the
operation of The Hank
Snow Country Music
Centre & Museum.
Thursday night a
portion of the proceeds
will benefit the Kids
Help Phone. If you
require further
information, contact
Donna Wamboldt at
1-888-450-5525 or
visit our web site:
www.hanksnow.com
This year, in recognition of the one hundredth anniversary of the birth of Don
Messer, the famous fiddler will be honoured on opening night with a special tribute.
This event is headlined by one of Canada’s top fiddlers, Ivan Hicks of New Brunswick.
For more information, see Page 2.
In addition to the special night in honour of Don Messer, the 2009 Hank Snow
Tribute will feature a wide variety of performances, workshops and events.
Saturday morning will feature Joyce Seamone's Songwriter's Circle at 9:00 am.
Saturday afternoon's contests are always a popular part of the tribute, with the Martin
Guitar sponsored Guitar Picking Contest, and the D'Addario Canada sponsored Sounds
Like Hank Contest. Be sure to drop by the main building to see Jim Dean,
affectionately known as “The Answer Man,” where you can find just about anything
you want to know about classic country music.
Sunday’s program begins with Country Gospel and wraps up in the afternoon
with the big “Jam,” which gives everyone a chance to get on stage together to end the
weekend’s festivities.
Ticket prices are as follows: $95 (2 people) before August 1, $105 (2 People)
after August 1st (incl. camping & events Thurs, Fri, Sat & Sun); Single day tickets:
Thursday - $10; Friday - $15; Saturday - $22; Sunday - $10. There is also a weekend
walk-in pass for $45 (excluding camping). Wednesday camping is $10 for the night.
Don’t forget your lawn chairs!
Movin’ On
Page 2
Movin’ On
Page 7
Hank Snow Tribute Honours Don Messer
“Across the country, tens of thousands sat by their radios three times a week, 193958, listening to 'Don Messer and His Islanders' broadcast from Charlottetown, PEI on
CBC Radio. With the advent of television, Messer moved seamlessly across to the
new medium, bringing his audience with him. Thousands more watched 'Don Messer's
Jubilee' weekly, 1956-69, produced by CBC Television in Halifax, NS. When the
program was cancelled, there was a national uproar; thirty-five years later, some
people miss it still.”
Thursday August 13, 2009 This year, in recognition of the one hundredth anniversary of the
birth of Don Messer, the famous fiddler will be honoured on opening night with a special
Tribute. This event is headlined by one of Canada’s top fiddlers, Ivan Hicks of New
Brunswick.
The late fiddler’s eldest daughter,
Dawn Messer Attis, said she is
pleased that her father is being
honoured in this manner. “Hank
and Dad were friends over the
years and I know he would be very
happy with this tribute to him. I
applaud and congratulate the
society for keeping alive the music
and traditions of Canadian music
pioneers like my father.”
Because Hank Snow and Don Messer were friends and fellow Maritimers who
achieved a substantial amount in music and who also shared the same birth date, The Friends
of Hank Snow Society is honouring the renowned fiddler on opening night. We hope the
tribute to Don can be the start of a new tradition to honour deserving Canadian country music
performers who have passed on.
These two icons in Canadian music were both born on May 9th, Hank Snow in 1914
and Don Messer in 1909.
From now until the end of the year there will be a special exhibit featuring Don
Messer and his music at the Hank Snow Country Music Centre & Museum in Liverpool.
Members of the public are invited and encouraged to visit the Centre to see the special display,
which includes photos & other memorabilia.
This saddle will be on display at
the 19th Annual Hank Snow
Tribute. Drop by to see Don and
his beautiful saddle.
2008 Tribute Memories
DIRECTORS
In February 2009 the Centre received word that Min Snow’s Brother, Ray
Aalders from Halifax, NS passed away at the age of 83. A month later in March,
we received the sad news that Ms. Iva Lee Roberts from Nashville passed away
at the age of 72. Iva Lee was the beloved wife of Kayton, who is one of the last
surviving members of Hank Snow’s band, The Rainbow Ranch Boys. Also,
during the month of March, Mr. Don Miller passed away. On June 12th, the
Centre received news of yet another passing of a member with the Friends of
Hank Snow Society, Mr. Art MacAulay. Last year, Art had the pleasure of
performing for the first time at the Hank Snow Tribute. Sympathy is
extended to family & friends of Ray Aalders, Iva Lee Roberts, Don Miller, & Art
MacAuley.
Special Thank You
Thank you to Doug Mewton, who kindly offered his talent and assisted in creating a
monthly e-zine for email members.
Gaven Whynot – President
Ron Lane – Vice President
Linda Baker – Secretary
Carl Davis – Treasurer
Dave Wamboldt – Director
Doug Mewton – Director
Graham Baker – Director
Roger Rafuse – Director
Marie Davis – Director
Carla Whynot – Director
Hank Snow’s Saddle ~ I lived in Lewisville, N.B. which is now part of
Moncton as a youngster. In 1946 or 1947, Hank Snow was in the Moncton area
for several months. During some of this time he, together with Min and Jimmie,
lived in a small homemade trailer which he had parked beside Nap’s Lunch.
During this stay in Moncton, he boarded Shawnee at Roger’s Dairy Farm, which
was owned by Zed Rogers, who is referred to as Zeddy in the book, “The Hank
Snow Story”. Also, during this time, Jimmie attended the Lewisville Public
School, of which Jimmie does not recall.
At this time, Hank was putting on shows with Big Slim. Also, during
this stay in Moncton, Hank received his silver mounted saddle from Bohlrns of
California. This saddle was on public display viewing in the window of Roger’s
Jewelry Store in Moncton, NB. When Hank received his silver-mounted saddle,
he sold the saddle he had previously used to Zed Rogers.
The saddle that Hank sold Zed was painted with flowers and leaves. The
painting and colours are identical to the painting on his trick riding saddle, which
was on display in the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville. It is noted in the
book ,“The Hank Snow Story” that Hank did this painting himself.
In February 1956, I was looking for a western saddle as I had a horse at
the time. I was told that Zed Rogers had a western saddle that he may be
interested in selling. I contacted Zed who had the saddle, which he kept in his
attic. He showed it to me and I was able to buy it from him. I used this saddle on
my horse, for some time.
Several years ago Min was at the Hank Snow Tribute in Bridgewater, I
was able to speak to her and asked her about this saddle. She told me that she
recalled this saddle that Hank had sold to Zed Rogers and that Hank had not
received it with Shawnee, but purchased it after buying the horse.
Don Arsenault
Above photo: Looking at the
camera are Victoria & Edwin
Wiebe from Salmon Arm BC.
Pictured below are David & Jean
Redford from Arkansas.
It is with sad regret that we
accept the resignation of Sylvia
Forbes. Sylvia has been
involved with the Hank Snow
Society for many years. Many
of you will remember her as the
“Ticket Lady”
Left photo: Nudie & The
Turks from PEI.
Photo on the right: pictured
from left—right: Paul
Moulaison, Iva Roberts,
Gordie Giles, Roger Carroll,
Susan Layton with her two
boys Kyle & Ryan, front
Kayton Roberts
To the MANY Volunteers and Musicians who give their time & talent to help us out
with our fundraising projects. Your support is greatly appreciated. To all those who donated
items in memory of loved ones or otherwise, a heartfelt thanks goes out to you.
Our gratitude is extended to Betty Lou Brown, who had another successful Canning
show fundraiser with proceeds split 50/50 between the Nova Scotia Country Music Hall of
Fame & The Hank Snow Country Music Centre & Museum, in support of the 19th Annual
Hank Snow Tribute. Lastly, we would also like to thank Bernice Levy who also had a
successful show at the Chester Legion in support of the 19th Annual Hank Snow Tribute.
Your hard work and dedication are greatly appreciated.
Pictured on the left: Art MacAuly &
Eric Bowers. This was Art’s very first
tribute performance. We are pleased that
we were able to showcase his talent
before he passed
Our youngest Tribute fans in heavy
conversation.
Movin’ On
Page 6
The Singing Ranger A Musical Tribute to Hank Snow
Hank Snow was the original Rhinestone Cowboy. The Nova
Scotian legend known for his sparkly show outfits and his
smooth baritone voice. With more than 70 singles hitting the
charts between 1950 and 1980, some of his best known were
I’ve Been Everywhere, I’m Movin’ On, Hello Love, Let Me
Go, Lover, The Golden Rocket and I Don’t Hurt Anymore, all of which reached Number One status.
Join the talented musical team of Greg Simm, Gordon Stobbe, Stephen Osler, Mike
Farrington Sr. and Michael Swinimer, with Andrew Cull as the incomparable Hank Snow in
this incredible, not-to-be-missed tribute.
Costumes by Jennifer Coe.
Evening performances are Friday, September 25th and Saturday, 26th at 7:30 p.m. Matinee
Pictured below: The Hank
Snow Museum enjoyed a visit
from Jacquelined’Entremont’s
class of Ecole Pubnico-Quest
West Pubnico, NS. It goes
without saying these young
people had a grand ol’ time.
performance only Sunday at 2 p.m. Don't miss it! Call now to book tickets 902-254-3000
or 1-800-565-SHOW (Ship’s Company Theatre—Parrsboro, NS)
Summer staff anxiously await the Tribute
Left to right: Natasha, Amanda, Don
Messer cut-out image & Katie
Movin’ On
Page 3
Society News
May 20, 2009 - A “poem” purportedly written by a
teenage Bob Dylan and up for auction at Christie’s
Auction House in New York, is actually a song
written by the late Canadian country singer Hank
Snow. Christie’s announced the sale of the hand
written poem believed to have been written in 1957
when Dylan was 16 and away at a Jewish Camp.
Christie’s auction house failed to detect the words,
with a few minor variations, matched those of a song
previously recorded by Snow. Reuters discovered the
lyrics matched a Snow song when alerted by a
reader. Snow fans also told Christie’s of the
oversight. Written in blue ink on both sides of a
single sheet of paper, it reads in part, “but I’ll meet
my precious buddy up in the sky/ by a tiny narrow
grave/ where the willows sadly wave.” Those words
and others match the Snow song. The Hank Snow
Country Music Centre lists the “Little Buddy” lyrics
and music as by Snow and said the song was
recorded in Montreal in December 1947. It was
released to the U.S. radio in November 1948 and
became a Snow standard on the Grand Ole Opry in
Nashville. Dylan’s management had no immediate
comment.
-Published by New York (Reuters)
Museum News
Young Fans Visit The Museum
Pictured above are left to right: guitar
Deihl Whynot, front Hayden Whynot,
back Trent Amirault & Carter Mann
Pictured below are Kailey Smith from
Ottawa with her Grandmother, Shirley
Smith of Liverpool
My name is Amanda Dalby and this is
my third year at the Hank Snow Country Music
Centre. I applied for a summer student position in
2007 because I wanted to learn more about Hank
Snow and his career. I also enjoy working with the public and meeting new people. In addition to my work at the centre, I have just finished my third year at Dalhousie University,
where I’m currently enrolled in their Bachelor of Science program, with a major in Biology.
This year, I am going to start my application process for the RCMP, where I plan to work in
their Forensic Identification/Behavioral Sciences Unit. When I find time to spare, I
enjoy reading and scrapbooking, as well as spending time with my niece, Ella and nephew,
Nolan.
My name is Katie Ingram and this is my second year at the Hank Snow Country
Music Centre. I started working here because of my interest in Canadian history. When the
chance to work and learn about a historical building and figure became available, I
immediately applied for the position. Outside of my summer job, I’m a third year English
student at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova
Scotia. When I finish my degree in 2010, I will have applied and hopefully been accepted to
The University of Kings College one-year journalism program. When that course is completed, I plan to either be employed at the CBC or CTV in
Halifax. In addition to my journalism career, I’m an avid fiction writer and I am working on
becoming a part-time novelist.
My name is Natasha Williams and this is my first year working at the Hank Snow
Country Music Centre. I applied for this job because I love working in the public and
meeting new people. Therefore, this was a great opportunity for me. I’ve just graduated from
Liverpool Regional High School with academic honours and I’ve been accepted to the
NSCC’s Kingstec Campus in Kentville, Nova Scotia. There, I will be taking the two- year
Early Childhood program. After my course is finished, I someday plan to open my own
daycare and run my own centre.
The Hank Snow Country Music Centre &
Museum has come a long way since the grand
opening in 1997. With your help we have created a
solid base from which we can be Movin’ On – to
bigger challenges. Here is your opportunity to take
part in this exciting process. In fact, we can not be
Movin’ On without your support.
The collections committee has worked
endlessly over the last number of months preparing
the museum displays for the 2009 tourist season.
A new rack card and brochure has been
created for the centre, as well as a new letterhead.
Pictured on the left during a
school bus tour from
Centre Consolidated school, a
visitor (Gordon McPhail), of
Grand Forks BC dropped in to
tour the Museum just in time to
Jam with Roger Rafuse & Dick
Gardner. Gordon played many
Hank Snow tunes on Carl Davis’
Gibson Guitar for us. Thanks to
Roger, Dick & Carl for providing
us with entertainment for the
afternoon. We hope Gordon
enjoyed his visit to the Hank
Snow Museum.
President’s Message
Since our last newsletter,
The Friends of Hank
Snow Society and the
Hank Snow Country
Music Centre & Museum
have been busy. This
year, our 8th Annual
Father’s Day Fest was
successfully held at the
West Queens Community
Centre. It was a great full day of entertainment for the
whole family. New this year, we held a live Dinner/
Auction/Dance on April 11. This turned out to be a huge
success. Thanks to everyone who donated items to be
auctions off , the volunteers, and the West Queens Society
for a delightful dinner & desert. We are currently
preparing for our Tribute in August, which is in its 19th
year! We are looking forward to a great weekend!
Gaven Whynot,
President
Manager’s Message
Here I am for a second year,
and just as excited about this tribute
as I was the first year after only
having seven weeks to prepare. Over
the last few months, I have been busy
working with the board on various
fundraising projects. Two most
recent and successful events were a
Live Dinner/Auction/Dance held on
April 11th, and the 8th Annual
Father’s Day Fest held on June 20th. A big heartfelt
thanks to all who contributed to our fundraising efforts.
Over the winter months, Board Secretary, Linda
Baker created a new rack card and brochure, which was
distributed to various tourist attractions throughout
Canada & USA. Linda also created a new letterhead for
the society.
It’s great to have the summer students back on
staff, and we have stocked the gift shop
inventory. There are a lot of new items this year, so feel
free to drop by and have a look.
We are looking forward to a successful
season and Tribute.
Donna Wamboldt,
General Manager
Movin’ On
SOUVENIR SHOP
Page 4
Movin’ On
SOUVENIR SHOP
Page 5
Movin’ On
SOUVENIR SHOP
Page 4
Movin’ On
SOUVENIR SHOP
Page 5
Movin’ On
Page 6
The Singing Ranger A Musical Tribute to Hank Snow
Hank Snow was the original Rhinestone Cowboy. The Nova
Scotian legend known for his sparkly show outfits and his
smooth baritone voice. With more than 70 singles hitting the
charts between 1950 and 1980, some of his best known were
I’ve Been Everywhere, I’m Movin’ On, Hello Love, Let Me
Go, Lover, The Golden Rocket and I Don’t Hurt Anymore, all of which reached Number One status.
Join the talented musical team of Greg Simm, Gordon Stobbe, Stephen Osler, Mike
Farrington Sr. and Michael Swinimer, with Andrew Cull as the incomparable Hank Snow in
this incredible, not-to-be-missed tribute.
Costumes by Jennifer Coe.
Evening performances are Friday, September 25th and Saturday, 26th at 7:30 p.m. Matinee
Pictured below: The Hank
Snow Museum enjoyed a visit
from Jacquelined’Entremont’s
class of Ecole Pubnico-Quest
West Pubnico, NS. It goes
without saying these young
people had a grand ol’ time.
performance only Sunday at 2 p.m. Don't miss it! Call now to book tickets 902-254-3000
or 1-800-565-SHOW (Ship’s Company Theatre—Parrsboro, NS)
Summer staff anxiously await the Tribute
Left to right: Natasha, Amanda, Don
Messer cut-out image & Katie
Movin’ On
Page 3
Society News
May 20, 2009 - A “poem” purportedly written by a
teenage Bob Dylan and up for auction at Christie’s
Auction House in New York, is actually a song
written by the late Canadian country singer Hank
Snow. Christie’s announced the sale of the hand
written poem believed to have been written in 1957
when Dylan was 16 and away at a Jewish Camp.
Christie’s auction house failed to detect the words,
with a few minor variations, matched those of a song
previously recorded by Snow. Reuters discovered the
lyrics matched a Snow song when alerted by a
reader. Snow fans also told Christie’s of the
oversight. Written in blue ink on both sides of a
single sheet of paper, it reads in part, “but I’ll meet
my precious buddy up in the sky/ by a tiny narrow
grave/ where the willows sadly wave.” Those words
and others match the Snow song. The Hank Snow
Country Music Centre lists the “Little Buddy” lyrics
and music as by Snow and said the song was
recorded in Montreal in December 1947. It was
released to the U.S. radio in November 1948 and
became a Snow standard on the Grand Ole Opry in
Nashville. Dylan’s management had no immediate
comment.
-Published by New York (Reuters)
Museum News
Young Fans Visit The Museum
Pictured above are left to right: guitar
Deihl Whynot, front Hayden Whynot,
back Trent Amirault & Carter Mann
Pictured below are Kailey Smith from
Ottawa with her Grandmother, Shirley
Smith of Liverpool
My name is Amanda Dalby and this is
my third year at the Hank Snow Country Music
Centre. I applied for a summer student position in
2007 because I wanted to learn more about Hank
Snow and his career. I also enjoy working with the public and meeting new people. In addition to my work at the centre, I have just finished my third year at Dalhousie University,
where I’m currently enrolled in their Bachelor of Science program, with a major in Biology.
This year, I am going to start my application process for the RCMP, where I plan to work in
their Forensic Identification/Behavioral Sciences Unit. When I find time to spare, I
enjoy reading and scrapbooking, as well as spending time with my niece, Ella and nephew,
Nolan.
My name is Katie Ingram and this is my second year at the Hank Snow Country
Music Centre. I started working here because of my interest in Canadian history. When the
chance to work and learn about a historical building and figure became available, I
immediately applied for the position. Outside of my summer job, I’m a third year English
student at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova
Scotia. When I finish my degree in 2010, I will have applied and hopefully been accepted to
The University of Kings College one-year journalism program. When that course is completed, I plan to either be employed at the CBC or CTV in
Halifax. In addition to my journalism career, I’m an avid fiction writer and I am working on
becoming a part-time novelist.
My name is Natasha Williams and this is my first year working at the Hank Snow
Country Music Centre. I applied for this job because I love working in the public and
meeting new people. Therefore, this was a great opportunity for me. I’ve just graduated from
Liverpool Regional High School with academic honours and I’ve been accepted to the
NSCC’s Kingstec Campus in Kentville, Nova Scotia. There, I will be taking the two- year
Early Childhood program. After my course is finished, I someday plan to open my own
daycare and run my own centre.
The Hank Snow Country Music Centre &
Museum has come a long way since the grand
opening in 1997. With your help we have created a
solid base from which we can be Movin’ On – to
bigger challenges. Here is your opportunity to take
part in this exciting process. In fact, we can not be
Movin’ On without your support.
The collections committee has worked
endlessly over the last number of months preparing
the museum displays for the 2009 tourist season.
A new rack card and brochure has been
created for the centre, as well as a new letterhead.
Pictured on the left during a
school bus tour from
Centre Consolidated school, a
visitor (Gordon McPhail), of
Grand Forks BC dropped in to
tour the Museum just in time to
Jam with Roger Rafuse & Dick
Gardner. Gordon played many
Hank Snow tunes on Carl Davis’
Gibson Guitar for us. Thanks to
Roger, Dick & Carl for providing
us with entertainment for the
afternoon. We hope Gordon
enjoyed his visit to the Hank
Snow Museum.
President’s Message
Since our last newsletter,
The Friends of Hank
Snow Society and the
Hank Snow Country
Music Centre & Museum
have been busy. This
year, our 8th Annual
Father’s Day Fest was
successfully held at the
West Queens Community
Centre. It was a great full day of entertainment for the
whole family. New this year, we held a live Dinner/
Auction/Dance on April 11. This turned out to be a huge
success. Thanks to everyone who donated items to be
auctions off , the volunteers, and the West Queens Society
for a delightful dinner & desert. We are currently
preparing for our Tribute in August, which is in its 19th
year! We are looking forward to a great weekend!
Gaven Whynot,
President
Manager’s Message
Here I am for a second year,
and just as excited about this tribute
as I was the first year after only
having seven weeks to prepare. Over
the last few months, I have been busy
working with the board on various
fundraising projects. Two most
recent and successful events were a
Live Dinner/Auction/Dance held on
April 11th, and the 8th Annual
Father’s Day Fest held on June 20th. A big heartfelt
thanks to all who contributed to our fundraising efforts.
Over the winter months, Board Secretary, Linda
Baker created a new rack card and brochure, which was
distributed to various tourist attractions throughout
Canada & USA. Linda also created a new letterhead for
the society.
It’s great to have the summer students back on
staff, and we have stocked the gift shop
inventory. There are a lot of new items this year, so feel
free to drop by and have a look.
We are looking forward to a successful
season and Tribute.
Donna Wamboldt,
General Manager
Movin’ On
Page 2
Movin’ On
Page 7
Hank Snow Tribute Honours Don Messer
“Across the country, tens of thousands sat by their radios three times a week, 193958, listening to 'Don Messer and His Islanders' broadcast from Charlottetown, PEI on
CBC Radio. With the advent of television, Messer moved seamlessly across to the
new medium, bringing his audience with him. Thousands more watched 'Don Messer's
Jubilee' weekly, 1956-69, produced by CBC Television in Halifax, NS. When the
program was cancelled, there was a national uproar; thirty-five years later, some
people miss it still.”
Thursday August 13, 2009 This year, in recognition of the one hundredth anniversary of the
birth of Don Messer, the famous fiddler will be honoured on opening night with a special
Tribute. This event is headlined by one of Canada’s top fiddlers, Ivan Hicks of New
Brunswick.
The late fiddler’s eldest daughter,
Dawn Messer Attis, said she is
pleased that her father is being
honoured in this manner. “Hank
and Dad were friends over the
years and I know he would be very
happy with this tribute to him. I
applaud and congratulate the
society for keeping alive the music
and traditions of Canadian music
pioneers like my father.”
Because Hank Snow and Don Messer were friends and fellow Maritimers who
achieved a substantial amount in music and who also shared the same birth date, The Friends
of Hank Snow Society is honouring the renowned fiddler on opening night. We hope the
tribute to Don can be the start of a new tradition to honour deserving Canadian country music
performers who have passed on.
These two icons in Canadian music were both born on May 9th, Hank Snow in 1914
and Don Messer in 1909.
From now until the end of the year there will be a special exhibit featuring Don
Messer and his music at the Hank Snow Country Music Centre & Museum in Liverpool.
Members of the public are invited and encouraged to visit the Centre to see the special display,
which includes photos & other memorabilia.
This saddle will be on display at
the 19th Annual Hank Snow
Tribute. Drop by to see Don and
his beautiful saddle.
2008 Tribute Memories
DIRECTORS
In February 2009 the Centre received word that Min Snow’s Brother, Ray
Aalders from Halifax, NS passed away at the age of 83. A month later in March,
we received the sad news that Ms. Iva Lee Roberts from Nashville passed away
at the age of 72. Iva Lee was the beloved wife of Kayton, who is one of the last
surviving members of Hank Snow’s band, The Rainbow Ranch Boys. Also,
during the month of March, Mr. Don Miller passed away. On June 12th, the
Centre received news of yet another passing of a member with the Friends of
Hank Snow Society, Mr. Art MacAulay. Last year, Art had the pleasure of
performing for the first time at the Hank Snow Tribute. Sympathy is
extended to family & friends of Ray Aalders, Iva Lee Roberts, Don Miller, & Art
MacAuley.
Special Thank You
Thank you to Doug Mewton, who kindly offered his talent and assisted in creating a
monthly e-zine for email members.
Gaven Whynot – President
Ron Lane – Vice President
Linda Baker – Secretary
Carl Davis – Treasurer
Dave Wamboldt – Director
Doug Mewton – Director
Graham Baker – Director
Roger Rafuse – Director
Marie Davis – Director
Carla Whynot – Director
Hank Snow’s Saddle ~ I lived in Lewisville, N.B. which is now part of
Moncton as a youngster. In 1946 or 1947, Hank Snow was in the Moncton area
for several months. During some of this time he, together with Min and Jimmie,
lived in a small homemade trailer which he had parked beside Nap’s Lunch.
During this stay in Moncton, he boarded Shawnee at Roger’s Dairy Farm, which
was owned by Zed Rogers, who is referred to as Zeddy in the book, “The Hank
Snow Story”. Also, during this time, Jimmie attended the Lewisville Public
School, of which Jimmie does not recall.
At this time, Hank was putting on shows with Big Slim. Also, during
this stay in Moncton, Hank received his silver mounted saddle from Bohlrns of
California. This saddle was on public display viewing in the window of Roger’s
Jewelry Store in Moncton, NB. When Hank received his silver-mounted saddle,
he sold the saddle he had previously used to Zed Rogers.
The saddle that Hank sold Zed was painted with flowers and leaves. The
painting and colours are identical to the painting on his trick riding saddle, which
was on display in the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville. It is noted in the
book ,“The Hank Snow Story” that Hank did this painting himself.
In February 1956, I was looking for a western saddle as I had a horse at
the time. I was told that Zed Rogers had a western saddle that he may be
interested in selling. I contacted Zed who had the saddle, which he kept in his
attic. He showed it to me and I was able to buy it from him. I used this saddle on
my horse, for some time.
Several years ago Min was at the Hank Snow Tribute in Bridgewater, I
was able to speak to her and asked her about this saddle. She told me that she
recalled this saddle that Hank had sold to Zed Rogers and that Hank had not
received it with Shawnee, but purchased it after buying the horse.
Don Arsenault
Above photo: Looking at the
camera are Victoria & Edwin
Wiebe from Salmon Arm BC.
Pictured below are David & Jean
Redford from Arkansas.
It is with sad regret that we
accept the resignation of Sylvia
Forbes. Sylvia has been
involved with the Hank Snow
Society for many years. Many
of you will remember her as the
“Ticket Lady”
Left photo: Nudie & The
Turks from PEI.
Photo on the right: pictured
from left—right: Paul
Moulaison, Iva Roberts,
Gordie Giles, Roger Carroll,
Susan Layton with her two
boys Kyle & Ryan, front
Kayton Roberts
To the MANY Volunteers and Musicians who give their time & talent to help us out
with our fundraising projects. Your support is greatly appreciated. To all those who donated
items in memory of loved ones or otherwise, a heartfelt thanks goes out to you.
Our gratitude is extended to Betty Lou Brown, who had another successful Canning
show fundraiser with proceeds split 50/50 between the Nova Scotia Country Music Hall of
Fame & The Hank Snow Country Music Centre & Museum, in support of the 19th Annual
Hank Snow Tribute. Lastly, we would also like to thank Bernice Levy who also had a
successful show at the Chester Legion in support of the 19th Annual Hank Snow Tribute.
Your hard work and dedication are greatly appreciated.
Pictured on the left: Art MacAuly &
Eric Bowers. This was Art’s very first
tribute performance. We are pleased that
we were able to showcase his talent
before he passed
Our youngest Tribute fans in heavy
conversation.
Nova Scotia Country Music Hall of Fame
A Word from the Hall of Fame President – Carol Penney
Hank Snow Country
Music Centre &
Museum
148 Bristol Ave
P.O. Box 1419
Liverpool, NS
B0T 1K0
PHONE:
902-354-4675
Congratulations are extended to vocalist R. Dale Verge and musician
Floyd Spicer, who will be inducted into the NSCMHF on
September 19, 2009. We look forward to welcoming them into the
NSCMHF. Dale and Floyd will both be showcasing their talents at the
induction ceremonies. This promises to be an event you won’t want
to miss.
As President, I would like to invite and encourage our membership,
and the interested public in general, to attend any of our regular
Board meetings. These meetings are open to you, and are usually
held the first Monday of every month, with the exception of this past
June, when our meeting was held on June 8. We regularly meet at the Atlantic
Superstore, Bridgewater, or at the home of one of our board Members. If you are
interested in attending one of our meetings to see what we are all about, please contact
me at (902) 644-3135 for the location of our next meeting. Also, we will be soon inquiring
about interested persons who would like to sit on the Board of Directors. Our new Board
of Directors will be put into place at our Annual Meeting in September, and it is not too
soon to be thinking about that. Time goes by very quickly.
Like the song says, “See You in September”, at our 12th Annual Induction
Ceremonies.
Carol Penney, President
SUMMER 2009
Volume 15, #2
“SNOW NEWS IS GOOD NEWS”
Newsletter
Special Interest
Articles:
* Tribute
* Society News
* Museum News
* Souvenir Shop
* Photos
TOLL FREE:
1-888-450-5525
Inducted into the Nova Scotia Country Music Hall of Fame
FAX:
902-354-5199
Dale Verge and Floyd Spicer are both highly accomplished musicians who have
spent a lifetime in music. Both have toured overseas and have performed
extensively in Nova Scotia. Dale and Floyd have performed with numerous bands
and still perform regularly to this day. Dale started his current band “Dale Verge &
Doin’ Country” almost ten years ago and still tours with them to many parts of Nova
Scotia and was co-founder of the Halifax based group, Maritime Express. Floyd
Spicer plays in the house band at Nine Mile River after a career with bands such as
the Stringbusters, George Brothers & Ole Blue, Easy Country, Silverdollar and
Country Generations. Between them, Dale and Floyd, have been privileged to play
on stage with such greats as Kitty Wells, Anne Murray, Carroll Baker, Mac Wiseman,
k.d. Lang, Forrester Sisters, Don Gibson, Ronnie Prophet, Graham and Eleanor
Townsend, and Wilf Carter. These two musicians have provided instrumental and
vocal backup for numerous local musicians. Dale’s career in the military allowed him
the opportunity to play in Germany at local Stat Halls in Lahr and Hanover, as well as
military base clubs and mess halls. Floyd not only toured though the Maritimes and
Ontario, but also in the USA and Australia. Both Dale and Floyd are home-grown
musicians who had little formal instruction but instead refined and honed their
musical talents early on through hard work and perseverance. Dale was blessed with
a sister and brother, who sang along with him helping him to develop his natural
ability. He began performing at 6 years of age and brings his unique vocal
Interpretation to the songs he performs. At 12 years of age, Floyd bought a guitar
from a T. Eaton catalogue and practiced chords, playing every day in front of a mirror
to get the right “stage presence.” He too was blessed with a brother who had a band
resulting in a lifetime career through which he expresses his distinctive musical
renditions on not only acoustic or electric guitars, but also expertly on the pedal
steel. The Nova Scotia Country Music Hall of Fame has chosen for its 2009
inductees, two of Nova Scotia performers who at the beginning of their careers had
very similar musical experiences. Both are competent in not only the category in
which they were nominated, (and subsequently will be included) but are also
multitalented musicians.
Congratulations Dale and Floyd!
E-MAIL:
[email protected]
We’re on the Web!
See us at:
www.hanksnow.com
MOVIN’ ON
19th Annual Hank Snow Tribute
AUGUST 13 – 16, 2009
A new event has been added to the 19th Annual Hank Snow Tribute being held
August 13, 14, 15, 16, 2009 at the South Shore Exhibition Grounds in Bridgewater, NS.
This annual country music festival features entertainment for the whole family and
instrumental workshops for musicians of all levels.
The Hank Snow
Tribute is an annual
event put on by The
Friends of Hank Snow
Society, a registered
Nova Scotia charity.
The proceeds from the
event go towards the
operation of The Hank
Snow Country Music
Centre & Museum.
Thursday night a
portion of the proceeds
will benefit the Kids
Help Phone. If you
require further
information, contact
Donna Wamboldt at
1-888-450-5525 or
visit our web site:
www.hanksnow.com
This year, in recognition of the one hundredth anniversary of the birth of Don
Messer, the famous fiddler will be honoured on opening night with a special tribute.
This event is headlined by one of Canada’s top fiddlers, Ivan Hicks of New Brunswick.
For more information, see Page 2.
In addition to the special night in honour of Don Messer, the 2009 Hank Snow
Tribute will feature a wide variety of performances, workshops and events.
Saturday morning will feature Joyce Seamone's Songwriter's Circle at 9:00 am.
Saturday afternoon's contests are always a popular part of the tribute, with the Martin
Guitar sponsored Guitar Picking Contest, and the D'Addario Canada sponsored Sounds
Like Hank Contest. Be sure to drop by the main building to see Jim Dean,
affectionately known as “The Answer Man,” where you can find just about anything
you want to know about classic country music.
Sunday’s program begins with Country Gospel and wraps up in the afternoon
with the big “Jam,” which gives everyone a chance to get on stage together to end the
weekend’s festivities.
Ticket prices are as follows: $95 (2 people) before August 1, $105 (2 People)
after August 1st (incl. camping & events Thurs, Fri, Sat & Sun); Single day tickets:
Thursday - $10; Friday - $15; Saturday - $22; Sunday - $10. There is also a weekend
walk-in pass for $45 (excluding camping). Wednesday camping is $10 for the night.
Don’t forget your lawn chairs!