| MR.
PARSONS: |
I rise today to recognize and congratulate the Ducats on
becoming the recipients of the 2008 Stompin’ Tom Award
at the East Coast Music Association Award ceremony
recently in Fredericton, New Brunswick.
The award is presented annually in recognition of the
unsung heroes of the East Coast Music industry. The
Ducats, along with their signature Newfoundland tartan
vest, were a rock and roll band started in the late
1950s in Port aux Basques and throughout the 1960s,
constantly toured throughout the Province, Eastern
Canada and the New England area.
Although there were many changes in band members
throughout the years, the originators were all from Port
aux Basques and included: Lewis (Butch) Skinner, who is
in the gallery today, Jim Crewe, Bob Battiste, Winston
Blackmore, Joe Willis, Art Bragg, Gerald Carter and the
late Roger Skinner.
Many other well-known Newfoundland musicians, of
course, were part of the Ducats over the years,
including Mr. Claude Caines, Joe Bolus, Billy Smith,
Dave Parsons and Gord Tracey. Yours truly was made an
honourary Ducat in 1995, and I had the honour of singing
with them at the Mile One in 2002.
They rocked the Old Mill here in St. John’s,
Memorial University, and the Argentia base and the
Chignic Lodge for years, to the delight of thousands,
young and old.
Although the band is acknowledged as one of the first
and best rock and roll bands from Eastern Canada, they
hold a special place in the hearts of the people of the
Port aux Basques area. They still play from time to
time, and they have not lost a beat.
Mr. Speaker, I ask all members of this House to join
with me in extending congratulations to the Ducats on
receiving this prestigious Stompin’ Tom Award. Rock on
Ducats! |
