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Of Campouts and Steak Bakes
Yesterday was quite a day for me! I hit two legendary North Country events in the same day. Accompanied by my brother Goose, I headed out in the late morning for Whitey & Flo's Campout on the Cold Brook Road in Riverview.
I've gone to this country and western music festival for many years. This year was the 21st annual. I missed the first 14 or so, but I have been a regular since being invited years ago by Theresa Garrow of Ellenburg Center. Hosted by Whitey and Flo Keese, the campout attracts hundreds from all parts of New York State and as far away as California. This year, Skeeter Starke, a music executive with ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers), was a special guest.
Amidst comfortable surroundings attendees can listen to old-time country music on Friday night, all day Saturday and again on Sunday. Over the last several years I've interviewed some great North Country musicians and singers, and, sadly, a few of them have passed away.
Yesterday I couldn't help but think about Chilou Bonhomme, one of the greatest fiddle players ever, and Gerry "Longhorn" Garrow, who sang his country music from the heart. Both of these gentlemen were loved by many and often entertained the crowds at Whitey and Flo's Campout.
After about four hours of fun at the campout, Goose and I headed to Standish for my debut at Square Dashnaw's Steak Bake. Where have I been all my life that I had never attended this event before?
Square is one North Country legend that I had never met. Goose has been to the steak bake, but it was a first for me, and, boy, was I impressed. If the mall noticed that sales were down yesterday, it was because everyone was at Square's place. Hundreds of people were enjoying the atmosphere, the music and the food. Did I say food? Steamed clams by the thousands, just $5 a dozen. Clam chowder, steaks, sausages and peppers, hot dogs, and fun!
It so happens that I've known one of Square's nieces for many years. So, escorted by Theresa, I was able to personally meet the legendary Square. He was seated with several VIPs at his favorite picnic table. I was a little nervous at first, meeting someone who is held in such high regard in the North Country.
But he put me at ease with a firm handshake and an easy smile. It seems that Square Dashnaw's Steak Bake became official in 1994, but it had been held for many years prior to that. I'm sorry I have missed it all these years, but it's already on my calendar for 2008.
And steak isn't the only thing that got baked yesterday. With the sun streaming down all day I now wish I'd worn a hat. The top of my head, vacated by hair years ago, is baked as well. When I finish blogging, I think a little Vaseline Intensive Care Lotion needs to find its way to my scalp.
If you've never been to either Whitey & Flo's Campout or Square Dashnaw's Steak Bake, mark your calendar for the first Saturday of August 2008. I'll see you there. And, since I know some important people, I'll be able to arrange for you to meet those North Country legends, Whitey & Flo Keese and Square Dashnaw.
Comments
Well this is the weekend for the mountain men to cross over the hills led by The Carver, The Bullet, The Fox and The Goose among many more. See you all this weekend.
(Foxy's note: Sad to say that Foxy & Goose will not be able to attend the big event after all! We had been told the wrong date, and, as a result, I have a videotaping job on Friday and important family commitment on Saturday. Our initiation will have to wait a year!)
Posted by: The Old Timer | August 7, 2007 6:37 AM
Chilou Bonhomme ... my, what memories! Back in the early 80s, a bunch of us: Bob DeForge, Warren and Audrey Manor, John Bouyea and other Fox Hillers ... and bless his heart, the great Herbie Rock donated the Korina for a fund raiser to obtain the monies needed for a sound system for the Fox Hill park and skating rink.
Herbie and his family donated refreshments, his country-western band (wish I remembered their name - they were wonderful) and the Fiddlin' Fool, Chilou Bonhomme, who was a one-of-a-kind entertainer. I can't remember when we all had such a fantastic and fun time.
We did raise a ton on money and donated it to the city for the sound system. What a great addition to our little park.
Sadly, shortly after, all our hard work was for naught, as some hoods vandalized the sound system and it was never replaced.
I will never forget all the good people of the North Country - including my parents and sister Lora and other Plattsburgers who opened their pockets and gave from their hearts.
Just a reminder that the good people do shines as brightly now in my memory as it did so many years ago.
Chilou Bonhomme ... rest in peace. Thank you!
Posted by: Lynda (Bouyea) Bevins | August 5, 2007 2:33 PM