20/02/2020
Excellent cause & great music!!
The Gary Johnson Memorial Scholarship is excited to announce its annual fundraiser – G-Fest 2020 – April 18, 2020 at the B Side Ballroom & Supper Club, Oneonta. The event raises money for the scholarship fund which honors local students, who demonstrate an appreciation for music through performance or study, with cash awards.
The program was created in honor of local musician, lifelong Oneonta resident and Oneonta Fire Department Captain, Gary E. Johnson - whose commitment to music during his lifetime inspired many others to play and enjoy musical performance.
Beginning this year, G-Fest will also take the opportunity to recognize other community members who, although no longer with us, left a commitment to local music that can still be felt. This year’s G-Fest is recognizing the many contributions to community, family and the local music scene of Dick Thompson.
Dick was a gifted singer- songwriter, bassist and band leader. He found his passion for music by listening to Gene Autry’s “Radio Ranch Show“. After winning a talent contest at age fourteen he was encourage by Carl Swanson (MGM recording and radio star “Mr. Sunshine”) to continue pursuing music and entertainment which he did until the day he passed in 2004. Dick formed his first band “The Canyon Riders” in 1946 and soon started appearing regularly live on WDOS and WGY radio as well as performing at local granges, schools and other public functions. Later Dick reformed the band and named them “The Westernaires” and performed with them until he moved to the Southern Tier. It was then after his returned to the Oneonta in late 1959 the band he was most noted for “The Driftwoods” began.
Dick was very proud of the many years and musicians he worked with. Many musicians will remember Dick for giving them their first chance to play or sing in public. He was equally proud of his own children and grandchildren, many who continue to share his love for music. While country music was his favorite he enjoyed all genres of music.
Dick performed throughout his life on several radio stations in the Northeast including WWVA Wheeling, West Virginia. This is where he recorded for Pinnacle Records. His song “Second to None” was later re-recorded by his grand-daughter Stephanie Ryman and also by his son John for the 2018 Hop City Hellcats release “Relics”.
G-fest will feature live music from many bands, including – The Carrington Family Band (featuring Wayne Carrington, Rebecca Carrington, Aben & Andrew), Gary’s Grandchildren, James V. Johnson & The Fource, The Driftwoods (featuring Dick Thompson’s son John Thompson), & the Hop City Hellcats. Also, the night will include special appearance by many local musicians and will feature raffles including an autographed acoustic guitar donated by Blue Chair Bay Rum.
The $10 donation at the door goes to support the scholarship fund.
