Submitted by Rick - 12/19/2011

As crazy as it seems, the Holidays are upon us! We would like to wish everyone a happy and healthy holiday season. Thank you for stopping by our site and coming to see us play. Zoar is now older than some of the people that come see to our gigs. I’m sure none of us ever thought back in 1988 that this band would be as strong as ever entering 2012. Every mile has been memorable along the way. Drop us a line or better yet, stop out and say “hello”. Peace & joy to all. 

Submitted by Rick - 1/5/2011

We hope everyone enjoyed their holidays! It always is a bit of a relief when January comes. Zoar will be playing some of the familiar places this winter so please stop out and say hello. We also hope to use the snowy weather as a good reason to get back in the studio to explore some new original music. Many thanks for all of your support over the years and we hope you all have a happy and healthy 2011.

Submitted by Rick - 10/15/2010

In late September while staining my house, I had an accident in which an extension ladder slipped out from under me. I was up working on the second story and fell on to the blacktop driveway, breaking 4 ribs and puncturing a lung in the process. It happened on a Tuesday and I recall asking the Doctor if he thought I could make my gig on Friday. He laughed. I admit to not knowing how much pain broken ribs put you in. My body inside and out was swollen and bruised and I developed pneumonia as well. Stubbornly I had to accept I could not play that Friday.

In 22 years this would be the first band canceled gig in the history of Zoar. Monty can attest, we have played through some pretty serious sickness and injuries. Next I had to deal with not knowing when I would get out of the hospital, so to be safe we cancelled the entire schedule for October. Thanks to the bar owners for being so understanding. I am at home now and getting better each day.

Zoar will be back on the regular schedule starting in November, as always we thank you for coming and supporting the band. Thanks to Monty Case and Chris Dahill for being there supporting me every step of the way.We look forward to seeing you soon.

The support and concern I have received from so many different people has been amazing. Thank you for every card, thought, prayer and wish for a speedy recovery. The kindness I have been shown will never be forgotten. Thank you again and I hope to see you in November.

Rick

Submitted by Rick - 2/12/2010

Howdy everybody! Hope you all had a great holiday season. It has been a while since we have updated our “news” and felt like we better share some of the important new events with the band.

It is now official that Chris Dahill is the newest member of Zoar. He will be handling the Bass guitar duties and adding some vocals as well. He went through a strenuous process to learn a lot of songs, in a hurry and has done very well. He started in September and has already played gigs in Buffalo, Rochester, Seneca Casino and most of the other bars on our schedule. He replaces Bruce Maybee, who after a two year run, has returned to Salamanca and his blues band. We wish Bruce well with his band; catch them sometime if you can.

I would also like to acknowledge some very special people in regards to performing at Benefit Concerts. It is no secret that some of our area musicians have a long history of donating time to help someone in need. These musicians donate their talent to a wide array of benefits, often giving up paying gigs in the process. While I won’t be able to mention everyone by name, I will highlight a few that we have crossed paths with at so many benefits over the years. Bands such as, Good Ole Boy’s(Louie & Chet Norton & crew), Fineline/Stray Bullet, Foolin’, Wingman, Sound Foundation, Iron Eyes Blues Band and others have helped many people in need. As a member of the community I notice and thank all the local musicians for the great charitable work they do. Please support them when you can by going to see them perform.

On a side note, I have been working up a new batch of originals with the help of many members of Zoar, past and present. I hope Monty, Roger will come in and contribute along the tracks already finished with Bruce and Chris. This will be released sometime in 2010 if everything falls in place. Peace and joy to all.

Tribute to Brother - 9/6/2008

Twenty years of Zoar news updates and the previous entry and this current one have been the hardest to write. It is with an extremely heavy heart that I, along with the Zoar family and Whitwood family, offer our condolences to the family on Brian Gardner. Brian passed away unexpectedly, he will be missed by all whose lives he touched. He will be remembered for many things, as he was connected to so many facets of our community. He was longtime member of our local music community, he was volunteer for youth softball, a working man, Fireman, Sportsman, Motorcycle enthusiast, Gentleman Farmer, Friend, Father, Husband and so many other things. Brian had a special way to share his humor and good nature with every one he talked to.

Not that I remember, but I met Brian, along with others from the Highland Avenue neighborhood including his sister Mary, the day I came home from the hospital as an infant. It's one of those funny stories that the Gardner's and Whitwood's would touch on when we would see each other. Mary always told it the best. All the kids had to hold the newest kid on the street. Highland Avenue in the 60's and 70's was a very special place to grow up. We had so many kids on the street. In 1972, to a 5 year old kid, Don and little brother Brian, were two of the coolest cats in the hood. The Gardner house was awesome, you could get lost inside. My favorite part was the basement. That's where I discovered music. The old piano, drums, and real guitars. No wonder the family is so musically talented. I feel so lucky to have grown up in that neighborhood in such a special time.

As 15 year old budding guitarist, I was lucky enough to have the older (21) more seasoned Brian agree to join my band which was called Jack Frost. He instantly made us better and we had so many great times learning the ropes. His pick up truck served as our "band truck" and I was usually in the passenger seat as we traveled to our gigs. As time went by, Brian played with many local bands including, Ridin' Shotgun, Flyin Colors, Foolin' and a few others. His bass playing and engaging stage presence will not be forgotten. To a man that felt like a big brother, I will think of you often and kindly. Every time I drive down Highland Avenue, I will smile and drift back to 1973. Thanks for all the great music and all the great laughter.

Rick Whitwood

November 12, 1959August 30, 2008

Submitted by Rick - 4/7/2008

On behalf of Zoar, I would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the family of Brian Castle. Brian passed away suddenly April 6th. For those who may have had the pleasure to know Brian, we will all remember his infectious smile, friendly personality and dedication as a Father and Husband. Brian was a talented musician, involved in many bands that performed in this area, including Stone Pillow, Barefoot Radio and most recently, Roundhouse Kick. Known for his work ethic and dedication, Brian offered his time and talent to many benefits, as well as being active with youth sports programs. We would also like to offer our condolences to his band mates past and present. Brian will be remembered for the positive impact he left on his community.

Submitted by Rick - 1/10/2008

Happy New Year! The year 2008 marks a significant milestone for Zoar, we will celebrating our 20th year together. What a long, strange trip it’s been, I must say we have enjoyed every minute. Monty and I have performed well over 1,000 shows together and look to continue the long tradition.

We also would like to welcome newest member, Bruce Maybee into the band. Bruce is a gifted musician whose talent helped fuel many local bands including Peace Pipe Mafia, Tarkus and Iron Eyes Blues among many others. Bruce will help push the band to new heights, as well as enhance the bands bluesy edge.

Most bands, local or otherwise, never approach the twenty year mark and we would like to thank everyone for their continued support. We hope to see you out sometime soon.

Submitted by Rick - 6/9/2007

Wasn’t that a party! Thanks to all who came to Boomers to help us celebrate Roger’s retirement from live performing. Dale at Boomers confirmed it broke all house records for attendance and truly a good time was had by all. It was so nice to see all the people that we haven’t seen in a long time, as well as those we have. Attendees from Wellsville, Scio, Rushford, Fillmore, Andover, Belfast, Canasaraga, Cuba, Belmont, Angelica, Bolivar, Friendship, Hornell, Dansville, Olean (sorry if I missed any) and parts beyond helped make it a memorable night.

We hope you enjoy the summer. Some of the highlights of our summer will be Wellsville Balloon Rally (Saturday July 21) and back to back nights at the Elks Club(Wellsville, open to public) for Alumni Weekend on June 29 & 30. Please check our schedule for a few select Bar/Club dates as well. Special thanks to the Cuba Fire Department for having us play at the Cuba Dairy Festival 2007. We have played most of the major area festivals at one time or another including Andover 4th of July, Wellsville Balloon Rally, Custom Express Car Show, Angelica County Fair, Porkstock, Earth Day, Fireman’s Conventions, and many others, yet this was our first time at the Cuba Dairy Festival. Despite the heavy rain and some scattered lightning, the show went on and we had a great time. Thanks for all your support.

Submitted by Rick - 4/25/2007

As band historian is has been my job to chronicle the events that have shaped the band since our start in 1988. Many events are remembered with joy, forever entered in to the fabric of the unique quilt of music we call "Zoar". Around these parts, a multitude of bands have come and gone in the ensuing years and we just kept chugging along. Our longevity is due in equal parts to the musical brotherhood shared by the members of this band, a distinctive sound that is, if nothing else, unique, and the fact that great people still come out and support our music. Good fortune has certainly shined its light upon us, we are grateful.

It is with heavy heart I announce that Roger Carlin will be hanging up his rock and roll shoes this spring. He will be retiring after 15 years, covering two stints with Monty and I.. Finding something nice to say about Roger is one of the easiest things anyone could do. So I’ll just say it simply; Roger is a genuinely nice guy and an incredible musician. We miss him already and he is not even gone yet. Throughout our amazing run together we have enjoyed playing with so many great players, it has truly been rewarding. Speaking for myself, I will always remember the Carlin, Case & Whitwood combination often and kindly.

Please help us send Roger off in grand Zoar tradition Saturday, May 26th at Boomers in Scio. This will be his last public date and will serve as a celebration for all the great music he has given to our area. Help us make this a special night and say goodbye to Roger.

The other special thing about this band is it’s resiliency. Zoar will be introducing Tom Mussingo as the new bassist/keyboardist this summer. Tom will not only bring tremendous musical and vocal talent to the band, he will bring history as well. Tom was a member on Zoar from 1994 -1995, coincidentally replacing Roger at that time as well. There seems to a lot miles left to travel and many great stories left upon the road. Be well and we hope to see on May 26th!

Submitted by Rick - 2/20/2007

Howdy Y’all! Hope everyone is avoiding the mid-winter blues. I’m very excited about a new addition to the schedule. Rick Whitwood and Anton Flint are teaming for a special night of music at the Wellsville Creative Arts Center on March 3. Sorry about the short notice, but this night at the Center will feature mostly original material performed by Anton and Rick and they are donating their proceeds from the performance to the David A. Howe Library Terrace/Auditorium fund.

As we all know, the David A. Howe library has been cornerstone of our community for many years. A fund drive is currently under way to help restore the terrace and auditorium to their original splendor. Please help us make this endeavor a success. Tickets can be purchased at the Wellsville Creative Arts Center, ordered by phone at 585-593-3000, or at the door the night of the show.

Submitted by Rick - 11/25/2006

Happy holidays! It’s hard to believe that Thanksgiving has come and gone and Christmas is just weeks away. I better start my shopping in a few weeks. The annual Thanksgiving eve bash at the Elks in Wellsville was a gas. If you have never been, give a shot next year, it will not disappoint.

A few dates have been added to the winter schedule. Don’t forget New Years at the Elks Club - open to the public, no reservations needed for the music, band starts @ 9:30.

From the Zoar history file: When we ring in 2007 Whitwood, Carlin and Case will have performed more gigs together than any previous line-up. For several years we performed as a quartet, five different guitar players held the position as second guitarist. We remember all former members fondly and I’m sure many of you do as well. As for the Whitwood, Carlin and Case combination, the many miles we have traveled together have made us tighter than we ever thought possible. The old U-Haul may have rolled its odometer for the third time but, the engine still roars.

Submitted - 10/7/2006

Once again Fall settles in on Western New York. That always means that Zoar’s outdoor summer gigs are over and it’s back to the bars. The dates section has been updated. A quick plug for New Years Eve. Back at the Wellsville Elk’s Club this year and this event is open to the public! We will fire up at 9:30 and the Elks always offers low prices on drinks, a non- rowdy, fun-loving atmosphere and a low cover charge. Why pay $50 bucks a couple for some lame DJ spinning the Macarena, when you can enjoy live music.

We would love to hear from you. Near or far, drop us a line on the email link of this site. Just click on Rick, Monty or Roger and the email will get to the selected member. We have gotten some great e-mails so far from folks that have traveled far away, as well as some from people that live right around the corner. It is always nice to hear from you. Thanks to Louie P. Norton for filling in while Monty was on vacation. As we like to say “the show WILL go on”.

Submitted - 8/22/2006

Being of old-school thought I am still not convinced that this web site newsletter is as effective as a flyer. Hopefully, enough of you have had some luck finding the site and accessing the schedule. Summer is here and we are enjoying a long run of outdoor shows. Weddings, barb-b-ques, parties, special events and more fill the summer of 2006 - we hope to see you out and about.

Kudos to the folks that organized the Scott Hancock benefit, Memorial Weekend in Andover. The most important aspects in making a benefit successful are a good cause, diligent organization and promotion and support from the community. Music is really secondary to all of these. Because of their hard work and the great support of the Andover and surrounding communities this benefit was a huge success. Great job and thanks to all that attended.

More shameless promotion. Rick’s new Cd Desperate Hours, is out now and available at the Music Alley in Wellsville, or at any Zoar performance. E-mail with the link on this site and you can get it by mail. Response on the web has been encouraging and the songs have been met with at our shows enthusiastically. Thanks for all the support.

Another one of the excellent events that Allegany County has to offer is the annual 4th of July celebration in Andover. This year it was quite spectacular. The time, effort, and money to pull off this event is remarkable and all that effort translates into great day, enjoyed by thousands of people. We were honored once again to be the headlining entertainment for this event. A great time was had by all. Thank again to all the folks that put this together year after year.

Submitted by Rick - 3/22/2006

I was hoping to get Monty to submit some news this month but, he is a hard one to pin down. Our sincere apologies to all that traveled to the Bolivar Hotel on Feb. 11 to see us and find we were not there. Fran @ the Bolivar Hotel changed the date on us at the LAST minute. In eighteen years we have never canceled a date or pulled a no show. Not even when Monty contracted the infamous "Beaver Fever". However, sometimes these situations are beyond our control and all we can do is extend our apologies. First day of spring has come and gone and we are still stuck in winter. It's a good time to get out and enjoy a little live music and we have updated our dates. Fillmore Hotel certainly lived up to the it's legendary status of a first rate party place! We will be back in Fillmore on tax day April 15th. Roy's in Andover was a rockin' good time and we make our debut at Bailey Hill Lodge (formerly the Sportsman Club) in Ulysses Pa. on May 6th. For those in close proximity to Boomers in Scio - it is a great place for live music. Huge dance floor, nice elevated stage, great bartenders and YES they serve alcohol!! Zoar will return as a featured act @ Andovers annual 4th of July extravaganza. It will be great to return to the main stage of this amazing celebration, as we have been part of this party several times in past years. They come out of the hills for this one. Have a nice spring and we hope to see you soon.

Submitted by Rick - 2/9/2006

Bolivar Hotel date for Feb.11th has been changed to Feb.25th. Sorry for the short notice. New dates have been added.

Submitted by Rick - 9/21/2005

It does not seem possible but summer has come and gone. I have heard that it was our areas hottest summer in over 100 years. Zoar had a great summer with a lot of nice outdoor gigs, which tend to be our favorite. Our first date back on the regular schedule is September 24 @ the Bolivar Hotel.We would like to extend a special thanks to all of you that came out to the many benefits to lend your support. It is because of you that it makes it so easy to say yes when asked to perform.

As you probably have noticed, it is getting increasingly difficult to find bars that still have live music. I have always said I would rather hear a bad band than a good DJ! Hats off to Boomers for having bands on Saturday nights and to the other bars for supporting live music. Please check our dates page for an updated list of Zoar performances and related performances in which we sometimes moonlight.

Thank you to all that came to Boomers on August 6th for the Desperate Hours release party. What a party it was! After a great acoustic set by Anton Flint, I played a set with RWB, followed by Zoar and finally a wonderful jam session. Members from Foolin’, Peelers, Good Ol’ boys, Wingman, Fat Brat, Anton Experience, and Zoar tore it up. As I said that night playing with Monty and Roger in Zoar for the last 17 years has been an honor and a privilege. It seems like we have traveled a million miles together and I have enjoyed every one. They are truly two fantastic musicians and great guys as well. We still have a lot of gas in the Zoar tank and will continue to bring the best Rock & Roll we are capable of, each and every night.

For more information on Desperate Hours please visit www.rickwhitwood.com. As of this writing "From This Day" is currently #1 on the Roots/Rock Chart of www.broadjam.com the largest independent music service in the world. Also available @ Music Alley (Wellsville), Sam Goody (Olean) or online @ CD Baby.

Submitted by Rick - 1/18/2005

They say no news is good, but I don’t think that applies to updating a web-site. We would like to extend belated holiday wishes to all. Hopefully, 2005 will bring everybody good health and good will. We have updated the upcoming dates and look forward to a rockin’ 2005.

Sad news from Rushford, as Jac-N-Mary’s closed their doors after New Year’s Eve. Jack and the folks from Rushford always treated Zoar very well. We will miss playing at such a fun place. Thanks again for the “Zoar” sign, it’s the coolest!

Other link’s you should check out on the local music scene include – www.akabutter.com, home of the Anton Flint Experience, and www.RickWhitwood.com. Rick has been busy recording tracks for his new CD Desperate Hours, which will be released in the spring of 2005. This release features many local artists including Roger and Monty along with George Cretekos and Anton Flint of Rick’s new group, The Rick Whitwood Band, which will be performing at showcase events which feature artists that perform original music.

2005 is shaping up to be a busy year for Zoar, and new dates are added each week. For those who enjoy a different atmosphere, look for Zoar at the Seneca Casino in Salamanca possibly this fall. Treat your sweetheart on Valentines Day – the Bolivar Hotel will feature Zoar on Saturday February 12th for their Valentines Dance

Submitted by Rick - 6/14/2004

Welcome to www.zoaronline.com! After years of resistance, we have finally entered the digital information age. Fresh off a triple-header (6/10, 6/11, 6/12) of gigs we would like to thank Foolin’ and the Louie P. Norton band for donating their time at the Relay For Life Benefit in Dansville. Our next bar gig will be at Jack & Mary’s on July 3rd. Check our dates page for a complete listing of upcoming performances.

Tis’ the season to be married and we are scheduled for several private functions of all kinds this summer. We still look forward to seeing everyone at some gig soon! I will try my best to keep this page updated. Special thanks to CJ Rahr for the site design and all the time and effort that went into making it look so good.

A new Zoar original "Girl Next Door" has been added to our set list and will be included on a new collection of original music by Rick Whitwood. The track features Roger Carlin and Monty Case and is one of 13 new tracks being completed by Rick and a long list of friends including George Cretekos, Anton Flint, Max Oglesbee, Ken Wilczak, Karen Mead, Craig Dunn, Jim Lester and more. The album is slated for a late summer/early fall 2004 release. If you have interest in this release or would like more information please click on the e-mail link and drop me a line.

Have a great summer!!