Special Interest Articles:

* Tribute

* Society News * Museum News * Souvenir Shop * Photos

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:

SUMMER 2009

Volume 15, #2 MOVIN’ ON

“SNOW NEWS IS GOOD NEWS”

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.

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!

Hank Snow Country Music Centre &

Museum

148 Bristol Ave P.O. Box 1419 Liverpool, NS

B0T 1K0

PHONE: 902-354-4675

TOLL FREE: 1-888-450-5525

FAX:

902-354-5199

E-MAIL: info@hanksnow.com

We’re on the Web! See us at:

www.hanksnow.com

Nova Scotia Country Music Hall of Fame

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

A Word from the Hall of Fame President – Carol Penney

19th Annual Hank Snow Tribute

www.hanksnow.com

Newsletter

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!

Inducted into the Nova Scotia Country Music Hall of Fame

Hank Snow Tribute Honours Don Messer

Page 2 Movin’ On

“Across the country, tens of thousands sat by their radios three times a week, 1939-58, 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.

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.

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.”

Page 7 Movin’ On

DIRECTORS 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 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”

Special Thank You

Thank you to Doug Mewton, who kindly offered his talent and assisted in creating a monthly e-zine for email members.

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.

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

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

Above photo: Looking at the camera are Victoria & Edwin Wiebe from Salmon Arm BC. Pictured below are David & Jean Redford from Arkansas.

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

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.

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.

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

Page 6 Movin’ On Page 3 Movin’ On

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 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.

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

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 Num-ber 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

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

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 addi-tion 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 com-pleted, 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.

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.

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

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.

Left to right: Natasha, Amanda, Don Messer cut-out image & Katie

Page 4 Movin’ On Page 5 Movin’ On SOUVENIR SHOP SOUVENIR SHOP

Page 4 Movin’ On Page 5 Movin’ On SOUVENIR SHOP SOUVENIR SHOP

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

Page 6 Movin’ On Page 3 Movin’ On

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 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.

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

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 Num-ber 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

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

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 addi-tion 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 com-pleted, 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.

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.

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

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.

Left to right: Natasha, Amanda, Don Messer cut-out image & Katie

Hank Snow Tribute Honours Don Messer

Page 2 Movin’ On

“Across the country, tens of thousands sat by their radios three times a week, 1939-58, 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.

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.

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.”

Page 7 Movin’ On

DIRECTORS 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 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”

Special Thank You

Thank you to Doug Mewton, who kindly offered his talent and assisted in creating a monthly e-zine for email members.

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.

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

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

Above photo: Looking at the camera are Victoria & Edwin Wiebe from Salmon Arm BC. Pictured below are David & Jean Redford from Arkansas.

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

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.

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.

Special Interest Articles:

* Tribute

* Society News * Museum News * Souvenir Shop * Photos

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:

SUMMER 2009

Volume 15, #2 MOVIN’ ON

“SNOW NEWS IS GOOD NEWS”

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.

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!

Hank Snow Country Music Centre &

Museum

148 Bristol Ave P.O. Box 1419 Liverpool, NS

B0T 1K0

PHONE: 902-354-4675

TOLL FREE: 1-888-450-5525

FAX:

902-354-5199

E-MAIL: info@hanksnow.com

We’re on the Web! See us at:

www.hanksnow.com

Nova Scotia Country Music Hall of Fame

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

A Word from the Hall of Fame President – Carol Penney

19th Annual Hank Snow Tribute

www.hanksnow.com

Newsletter

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!

Inducted into the Nova Scotia Country Music Hall of Fame