Missing Heather

 

  A big hole has been created in our community.  Heather Dunbar is with us in pictures, memory and her influence on many musical experiences over many decades.  I dare say, if Heather hadn't been supporting, inspiring and exposing us to artists, there would be as many musicians who would have given up as there are who never would have started.

Heather Dunbar Death, Heather Dunbar of Salt Creek Has Died

Category DeathPosted on:February 9, 2022

Heather Dunbar Death – Obituary News; Heather Dunbar of Salt Creek has passed away. She was a fierce advocate for local, live, and roots music, a formidable person at the venue door, and a strong and enthusiastic promoter of live radio especially the Salt Creek Show, which she has referred to as the “Twang Trust.” She was one of the real local movers and shakers in live music and radio, a friend and promoter of local musicians, and a true one of a kind.

  Whoever posted this nailed it.  She hosted the Salt Creek Show on WVBR through the '80's and 90's, she gave it up only because she succumbed to a paying gig in Binghamton that prevented her from being in Ithaca every Sunday morning by 6 am.  It's said they needed four men and a woman to replace her, but the show continues (Ithaca's oldest?).

  It felt appropriate to go up to 'VBR for the first show after getting the news.  Kai was hosting and Brad came up for support too.  We all told some stories and played some music in her memory.  She will be missed.

Walking up was aided by this effort in Heather's memory and honor.  Back in the day when she hosted up on Linden Ave. this wouldn't have happened: she would have done an album feature and cleared the sidewalk while side one played, or during the bluegrass half-hour and come back when the music resumed.  I'm still having back issues from chipping the ice.  Next time it snows, please call the Listener Line at (607)-273-2121 and make a request:  Could you shovel your walk?