*** Press Release ***
(originally posted April 5, 2024)
The Board of Directors of the Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall Of Fame is very pleased to announce Inductees to be honoured in 2024:
The Debenham Brothers
Rae Palmer
Eddie Francis
Jennifer Johnston-Armstrong
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The 2024 Induction Ceremony will take place at its NEW time on SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 29TH at 3:00 P.M., at Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe. Throughout the afternoon, you’ll be entertained by over 20 of the best artists and musicians our Ottawa Valley has to offer. They will be performing many of your all-time favourites. After the show, you’ll have the opportunity to meet and mingle with the 2024 Hall of Fame Inductees, current Hall of Fame Inductees, and many of your favorite Ottawa Valley country music artists.
Passing of Byron Stever
(originally posted November 7, 2023)
The Board of Directors of the Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall of Fame were saddened to learn of the passing of Byron Stever in Bathurst NB on October 30, 2023. Byron had a long and active career in the country music scene. He played drums as a member of the Ottawa Valley based band "Ted Daigle and The Musicmen"" for many years, performing live shows and featured on several albums recorded by them. He later performed in several other Ottawa based bands before moving to New Brunswick, where he resided until his passing.
"The Musicmen" were inducted into the Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall of Fame in 1998.
Passing of Pauline Nolan
(originally posted June 5, 2023)
The Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall of Fame Board was saddened to learn of the passing of Pauline Noland on June 4, 2023. Pauline was a member of The Jamboree Pals (with the late Kitty Bast). After her many years on the road Pauline settled in Wendover, Ontario, where she operated The Swinging Door Hotel. The Jamboree Pals were inducted into the Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall of Fame in 1996. Additional information will be provided when it comes available.
Annual General Meeting held December 7, 2022
(originally posted February 10, 2023)
The Annual General meeting of the Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall of Fame took place on December 7, 2022 and agreed to retain the services of Lyman Gardiner to complete the bookkeeping and accounting summary services for 2022/2023.
The Executive for the coming year was elected as follows:
- Dale Ducharme - President
- Pam Clements - Vice-President
- Kathy Hamelin - Treasurer
- Brenda Harlow - Secretary
Passing of Doug Sinclair
(originally posted December 28, 2022)
Sadly, the Board of Directors of the Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall of Fame must report the passing of Doug Sinclair on December 24, 2022. Ottawa-born country singer Doug Sinclair was a long-time popular part of the Ottawa Valley country music scene, performing with several bands. Doug, and his late wife Shirley (Thomas) initially were members of Ralph Carlson’s Country Mile Band, and then formed their own Hi & Dri Country Band. Later Doug teamed up with Wilf Arsenault and Ralph Carlson in the country trio W.R.D.
In 2000, Doug released his first solo album "The Valley & Me", which included songs written by Ottawa Valley performers, Terry Carisse, Ralph Carlson, Howard Hayes, Ron McMunn and Shirley Sinclair.
Passing of Dan Ducharme
(originally posted September 26, 2022)
It is with great sadness the the Board of Directors of the Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall of Fame announce the passing of Dan Ducharme on September 17, 2022.
Dan was much more than an Inductee. He was a member of the HOF Board for over 24 years. Many of those years were in the role of both the Treasurer and the Chair of the Events Planning Committee which not only involved planning and producing the annual induction ceremonies, but also many dances around the Ottawa area. Our heartfelt thoughts are with Dan’s wife Eileen and his sons Dale and Dean as well as their family and friends. Dan will be remembered by his country music family for all the hard work and dedication he gave to the country music community in the Ottawa Valley.
Passing of Tom Hussey
(originally posted June 9, 2022)
The Board of Directors of the Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall of Fame are sad to report the passing of Tom Hussey, Hall of Fame board member and past President. Tom left us on May 10th, 2022 at the age of 75 after a courageous battle. He originally joined the Hall of Fame board in 2015, and brought with him the experiences of a 40 year business career. Tom was a self-proclaimed campfire guitar player, where he would also normally drag along his trusty 5-string banjo. Tom leaves behind a son and daughter, 4 loving grandchildren, and many, many friends. We'll see you again someday Tom.
Changes to the Board of Directors
(originally posted December 29, 2021)
It is with some reluctance to have to announce that both Mike and Kathy Hamelin have made the decision to retire from the Board. Their involvement in the preparation of multiple shows, including creation of the programmes, setting up of the souvenir tables, assistant show producer, along with many miles of running around has been an integral part of the Board for the last six years. They will be greatly missed, but we are hopeful they will continue contributing to helping out when possible in the years to come.
The Board of Directors is pleased to welcome back Dale Ducharme. In anticipation of the forthcoming vacancies, all current Board members agreed to invite Dale to attend the AGM with the hope that he would agree to help fill the gap.
Passing of Paul Rudachuk
(originally posted December 6, 2021)
The HOF Board of Directors is sad to report the passing of Paul Rudachuk. Paul was a treasured member of the Ottawa Valley based band "Ted Daigle and The Musicmen" performing live shows and featured on several albums recorded by them. "The Musicmen" were inducted into the Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall of Fame in 1998.
Bassist Paul Rudachuk had resided in the Kingston area and was still very much a part of the country music scene. Paul passed away on November 30th, 2021.
Passing of Michael O’Reilly
(originally posted June 7, 2021)
The Board of Directors of the Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall of Fame is deeply saddened by the passing of music and creative icon Mike O’Reilly. Mike is the recipient of many bluegrass awards and was inducted into the Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall of Fame in 1996.
His musical and songwriting talent will be greatly missed as will his sense of humour and sense of comedy.
You can read more about Mike at our Michael O'Reilly bio page.
Nominating Committee Revision
(originally posted May 16, 2021)
At its November 2020 Board meeting, the Board of Directors approved revisions to the "Policy and Procedures for the Nominating Committee" document. This Committee will now be known as the Induction Committee. The Induction Committee will continue to decide who will be inducted into the Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall of Fame at its annual awards ceremony.
The Policy and Procedures document clearly defines the composition of the Committee, the roles and responsibilities of the Committee members and the process that is followed to choose our Inductees in a fair and transparent manner.
Visit our Suggest an Inductee page to view the new document.
LOOKING BACK
(originally posted December 23, 2020)
The OVCMHOF is happy to announce the introduction of a new feature on our web site called Looking Back. Larry Delaney, former Editor of Country Music News, has been kind enough to share with us his incredible inventory of photos featuring some of our esteemed inductees from past occasions and events in country music, with a new photo being featured each month on our website. We hope you will enjoy taking a trip with us down memory lane as we celebrate our country music roots.
Annual General Meeting Held November 17, 2020
(originally posted December 30, 2020)
The Annual General meeting of the Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall of Fame took place on November 17, 2020 and agreed to retain the services of Lyman Gardiner to complete the bookkeeping and accounting summary services for 2020/2021.
In addition, Lynda Rogers was elected to the Board of Directors (see below).
The Executive for the coming year was elected as follows:
- Tom Hussey - President
- Pam Clements - Vice-President
- Kathy Hamelin - Treasurer
- Brenda Harlow - Secretary
New Board Member
(originally posted December 30, 2020)
The Board of Directors is pleased to welcome Lynda Rogers as the newest member of the Board. Lynda has been around the country music industry on both sides of the business, both as a fan and administrator. Married to Inductee Dan Paul Rogers, she also participated in the production of his shows along with the Ronnie Prophet and Family Brown shows. Combined with over 40 years working with the Provincial government, Lynda brings many skills to the table and the Board looks forward to putting those skills to work.
Passing of Claudette Paradosky (Lefebvre)
(originally posted December 22, 2020)
The Board of Directors of the Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall of Fame wishes to express our deep sorrow at the passing of Claudette Paradosky (Lefebvre) on November 24, 2020. Claudette was inducted into the Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall of Fame in 2002.
You can read more about Claudette at Claudette Lefebvre
& Billy O'Boie.
Passing of Frederick Orville "Freddy" Dixon
(originally posted June 7, 2020)
Freddy Dixon, a pioneer on the Ottawa Valley country music scene passed away June 5, 2020, of heart failure, at his home in Smiths Falls, Ontario. He was 76.
Freddy Dixon (also billed as Fred Dixon) was born August 8, 1943 in Perth, Ontario, and was likely best known nationally for writing the song "The Last Fatal Duel", which was recorded by Stompin’ Tom Connors and featured on Connors' iconic album The Hockey Song (Boot Records BOS-7112). Dixon is also featured on the Stompin’ Tom Connors album and Canadian film production "Across This Land", performing his song "Tribute To Stompin’ Tom", recorded live at The Horseshoe Tavern in Toronto.
During his early career years Fred Dixon released two albums on the Rodeo/Banff label under the name Fred Dixon & The Friday Afternoon. Several single releases were pulled from these albums, charting nationally with his best chart showing coming in 1971 with the single Jim’s Used Car Lot, peaking at #22 on the RPM Country charts.
By the late 1970’s Freddy Dixon began directing his song writing to story-telling ballads. His album "Country And Proud Of It" (Snocan Records SCN-509) featured songs paying tribute to the history of his adopted hometown of Smiths Falls. He would later release a series of albums (CD’s) with a mix of tribute songs, and his talents as a songwriter, balladeer and stylish vocal work that would range from traditional country to rockabilly. Among his tribute songs were ballads paying homage to his idols Johnny Cash, Ronnie Hawkins and Ian Tyson.
While a prolific songwriter and recording artist, Freddy Dixon was equally active on the live music scene throughout the Ottawa Valley, performing at events highlighted by Nashville and Canadian headliners, as well as being a steady attraction at Ottawa Valley country music venues. In 2012 Freddy Dixon wrote and published the book "Country and Real People I Have Met".
Freddy Dixon was inducted into the Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall of Fame in 2000.
Passing of Satch (Gilles Marcel Rhéaume)
(originally posted June 1, 2020)
The Board of Directors of the Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall of Fame wishes to express our deep sorrow at the passing of HOF Inductee Satch (Gilles Marcel Rhéaume) on May 17th, 2020. Satch was inducted into the Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall of Fame as a member of "Tenderfoot" in 1997. Our warmest and heartfelt thoughts are with Satch’s loved ones and many friends at this time of loss. More information will follow once it becomes available.
Passing of Thomas Cavanagh
(originally posted December 10, 2019)
On December 5, 2019, country music in the Ottawa Valley lost a true champion when we lost Tom Cavanagh. Under Mr. Cavanagh’s direction, Thomas Cavanagh Construction was an original sponsor of the Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall of Fame. They have continued since the beginning, to show support for the Hall of Fame Induction ceremonies. Indeed, as you travel throughout the Ottawa Valley, the Cavanagh name is prominent at country shows and festivals demonstrating their tremendous commitment to the music. Tom Cavanagh himself was often seen mingling with the audience and with musicians.
The Board of Directors of the Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall of Fame wish to express our heartfelt gratitude to Tom Cavanagh. We also want to sincerely extend our sympathies to Tom’s wife, Kay and to the entire Cavanagh family.
Passing of Hall of Fame Inductee Eddie Bimm
(originally posted October 16, 2019)
The Board of Directors of the Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall of Fame wishes to express our deep sorrow at the passing of a great musician and friend, Eddie Bimm. The musical community has suffered a great loss that will be felt by fellow musicians and audience members in Ottawa and the Valley.
Eddie was inducted into the Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall of Fame in 2017 and served as the much valued musical director for the Hall of Fame band for many years. His leadership will be sorely missed by all.
Our warmest and heartfelt thoughts are with Eddie’s loved ones and many many friends at this time of loss. Rest easy Eddie.
Passing of Hall of Fame Inductee Elaine B. "Kitty" Bast
(originally posted July 4, 2019)
Peacefully at Campbellford Memorial Hospital, June 26, 2019 in her 85th year. Dear sister of Marlene Shantz (Clare) and the late Ralph. Sister-in-law of Carla Fries (Ross). Aunt of Melanie Shantz, Becky Malcolm (Gary), Todd and Dale Bast, and the late Kelly 'Whitey'. She will be sadly missed by her great-nieces and nephews, and the Bast and Lichti families. Daughter of the late Allan and Barbara (nee Lichti).
Kitty always had a love for country music and performing, and was inducted into the Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall of Fame in 1996 as one of the members of "The Jamboree Pals".
Passing of Hall of Fame Inductee Pete Lajoie
(originally posted April 2, 2019)
On Friday, March 29th, the Ottawa Valley lost one of its Hall of Fame inductees, Pete Lajoie, aka Ruben.
Anyone who knew Pete knows what a talented guitar player he was. He loved music so much and was a mentor for so many over the years. So much so that he shared his passion for music with everyone he came into contact with. Pete graced the stage with many talented artists over the years, far too many to name. He met the love of his life, and made so many friends and they have remained life long friends right up until they day he passed.
Pete was a modest man with a positive outlook on life and saw the best in everyone. He could always be counted on to tell a joke or come up with a witty one liner that would make everyone laugh. Being inducted in 1999 into the Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall of Fame was a great honour for him and a testament to all that he has given to the many artists and the countless hours he dedicated himself to his love of music.
May you Rest In Peace Ruben and play that guitar loud for all the angels who have come before you.
Passing of Hall of Fame Inductee Roger Damphousse
(originally posted March 24, 2019)
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of 2007 inductee, Roger Damphousse on March 22, 2019.
Guitar player, fiddle player and so much more. Roger played with many of the greats such as Terry Carisse, Pauline Noland and his latest partner in life & music, 2013 inductee Lauren Hall. Roger gave up music in 1984 to pursue other interests.
When he got the call that he and his brother, Claude (Quincy), were to be inducted in 2007, he began to practice. Then he met Lauren Hall and he had the music bug again. His contributions to the country scene here in the Valley will be sorely missed. Our condolences go out to Lauren, Quincy and all Roger’s family at this difficult time. Rest in peace, Roger.
Changes to the Executive
(originally posted October 31, 2018)
The Board of Directors wish to announce the election of Tom Hussey as President of the Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall of Fame. Tom brings with him 35 years of business management experience and for 10 years ran his own business in environmental marketing.
Passing of Past Hall of Fame President Jim Long
(originally posted August 22, 2018)
It is with heavy hearts that the Board of Directors of the Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall of Fame bid farewell to our President, Jim Long, who passed away on August 11, 2018. Jim worked tirelessly to support and promote country music and its history in the Ottawa Valley and he will be sorely missed by his country music family.
Passing of Hall of Fame Inductee Mickey McGivern
(originally posted July 1, 2018)
We are very sorry to report the passing of one of our OVCMHOF inductees, Mickey McGivern. Mickey was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1996. You can read more about Mickey at Mickey McGivern’s Bio.
Passing of Hall of Fame Inductee Joseph Teevens
(originally posted July 1, 2018)
Joseph Teevens, 2004 Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall of Fame inductee; passed away on March 8, 2018 at the age of 80 years. You can read more about Joe at Joe Teeven’s Bio.
Passing of Hall of Fame Inductee Hy Bloom
(originally posted June 19, 2018)
The Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall of Fame is sad to announce the passing of 1987 Inductee Hy Bloom. Hy had a long and successful career in the recording industry. You can read more about Hy at Hy Bloom’s Bio.
Passing of Hall of Fame Inductee Ronnie Prophet
(originally posted March 3, 2018)
1985 Inductee Ronald Lawrence Victor Prophet, country singer, musician and comedian, who charted 23 singles from 30 albums in a career that spanned 60 years, died with loving family and friends at his side on Friday, March 2, 2018 at age 80 following cardiac and kidney failure. You can read more about Ronnie at Ronnie Prophet’s Bio.
Passing of Hall of Fame Inductee Doug Anderson
(originally posted July 26, 2017)
The Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall of Fame is very sad to announce the passing of 2006 Inductee Doug Anderson. You can read more about Doug at Doug Anderson’s Bio.
Changes to the Executive
(originally posted January 19th, 2016)
Due to recent health issues, Bob Clermont has made the decision to step down from the Board of Directors. We would like to take this opportunity to thank him for his contribution to the Board and for his involvement in the last two Inductee shows. We wish him well.
We would like to welcome Tom Hussey to the Board. Tom brings an extensive business background as well as involvement in country music in the Ottawa Valley. We welcome Tom to the Board and look forward to working with him.
New Board Member Welcomed
(originally posted August 11th, 2015)
The Board of Directors is pleased to welcome Mike and Kathy Hamelin as the newest members of the Board. Mike is a well-known and respected musician in the Ottawa Valley and Kathy brings a fountain of knowledge of country music in the Ottawa Valley as well as a strong administrative background in business administration. We look forward to working with them both and welcome them to the Board.
Changes to the Executive
(originally posted August 11th, 2015)
Due to recent health issues, both Bob Clermont and Pam Clements have chosen to step down from their Executive positions. We are pleased to note that they will remain as active members of the Board. Brenda Harlow has been elected as Executive Secretary and Kathy Hamelin has been elected as Treasurer.
Annual General Meeting held October 26, 2014
(originally posted November 16th, 2014)
The Annual General Meeting of the Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall of Fame took place in Ottawa on October 26, 2014. At this meeting, the Board approved the Financial Statements for the Fiscal Year ending June 30, 2014 and agreed to retain Lyman Gardiner of the accounting firm Deloitte as the Auditor for 2015. In addition, Brenda Harlow was elected to the Board of Directors, the resignation of Dan Ducharme was accepted, and the Executive for the coming year was elected by acclamation as follows:
Jim Long - President
Judi Moffatt - Vice President
BBQ Bob Clermont - Treasurer
Pam Clements - Executive Secretary
Long Standing Board Member Retires
(originally posted November 16th, 2014)
It is with deep regret and sincere gratitude that the Board has accepted the resignation of Dan Ducharme who has served on the Board of Directors for the OVCMHOF for over 24 years. While his official title in recent years has been Treasurer, Dan wore many hats and contributed to the organization in so many ways. In addition to dealing with the financial matters of the HOF, which is no small feat in itself, Dan has been instrumental (pardon the pun) in the production of the annual Hall of Fame Awards Show each year, chairing the Events Planning Committee, liaising with performers, working with the technical staff and front of house staff at Centrepointe Theatre, arranging for portraits and plaques, building sets, scripting the shows and the list goes on. His commitment to the organization has been unparalleled and he will be deeply missed. On behalf of the Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall of Fame, the Board of Directors thanks you for all your support and wishes you all the very best, Dan!
New Board Member Welcomed
(originally posted November 16th, 2014)
The Board of Directors is happy to welcome Brenda Harlow as the newest member of the Board. Brenda is the wife of Hall of Famer, Rodger Coulombe, and brings an extensive knowledge of country music in the Ottawa Valley and a background in business administration to the table. We look forward to working with Brenda and welcome her to the Board.
OVCMHOF Receives Certificate of Continuance
(originally posted on June 19, 2014)
On October 17, 2011, the new Canada Not-for-Profit Corporations Act ("CNCA") was proclaimed in force. The CNCA established a new set of rules for federally incorporated not-for-profit corporations and replaced Part II of the Canada Corporations Act (the "CCA"), the law that has governed federal corporations for close to a century. Existing federally incorporated not-for-profit corporations were given 3 years to make the transition to the new CNCA. What this meant for the OVCMHOF was that we had to replace our letters patent and by-laws with new charter documents in order to comply with the CNCA. It has been an arduous and complicated process, but we are happy to report that, on May 9, 2014, the OVCMHOF received their Certificate of Continuance under the CNCA. A big "high five" to the Board of Directors for a job well done! Special thanks go out to our legal counsel, Karen Cooper and Tanya Carlton, for their guidance and expertise.
Passing of Hall of Fame Inductee, Buster Brown
(originally posted April 17th, 2014)
The Hall of Fame Board of Directors was saddened to hear of the passing of Buster Brown on April 15th, 2014, Step Dancer extraordinaire, and 2003 Hall of Fame Inductee. Buster was a three time (consecutive) North American Step Dance Champion. Together, with partner Pauline, Buster continued to teach hundreds of students throughout the Ottawa Valley since his retirement from competitive step dancing. You can read more about Buster and Pauline at Bio, Buster & Pauline Brown.
Nominating Committee Changes
(originally posted on March 17th, 2014)
At its March meeting, the Board of Directors approved revisions to the "Policy and Procedures for the Nominating Committee" document. It is the Nominating Committee that decides who will be inducted into the Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall of Fame at its annual awards ceremony.
The Policy & Procedures document clearly defines the composition of the committee, the roles and responsibilities of the committee members and the process that is followed to choose our inductees in a fair and transparent manner.
Annual Election of Executive Officers
(originally posted on March 5th, 2014)
At the Board of Directors meeting on February 14, 2014, Jim Long and Dan Ducharme were acclaimed to the positions of President and Treasurer, respectively, of the Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall of Fame. Judi Moffatt was elected to the Vice-President post and Pam Clements was acclaimed as Secretary.
New Members on the Board of Directors
(originally posted on March 5th, 2014)
Two new members were recently welcomed to the OVCMHOF Board of Directors: Bob Clermont and Tony True. Both BBQ Bob and Tony are well known and respected musicians very active in the country music scene in the Ottawa Valley. We look forward to the enthusiasm and experience that our new members bring to the organization and we wish them all the very best.
Passing of Hall of Fame Inductee Elayne Carlson
(originally posted November 20, 2013)
It was with heavy hearts that we learned of the passing of Hall of Fame Inductee Elayne Carlson. Elayne lost a hard fought battle with cancer on Thursday, October 10, 2013, 11 years to the very day that her husband and 1988 Inductee, Ralph Carlson left us. Elayne served on the OVCMHOF Board of Directors as Secretary for 26 years. Her contributions to the organization and to promoting and preserving country music in the Ottawa Valley were formally recognized in 2011 when Elayne was inducted into the OVCMHOF. She will be sorely missed.
New Secretary and Office Location
(originally posted on November 19, 2013)
Please note that the Secretary of the Ottawa Valley Country Music Hall of Fame is Pam Clements and the new location of our office is at 243 Douglas Side Road, Ashton ON K0A 1B0. Pam can be reached at (613) 257-1251.
