2000

RON BARKWELL

Ron and Marilyn Barkwell moved to Langley in 1984 with the purchase of the Langley Hotel. They immediately sought out country music bands to provide entertainment to their patrons. Within two years, the opportunity arose to purchase a cabaret in Langley, and in doing so; country music had another venue with a honky tonk flair named Gabby’s.  The success of these two venues came from people turning to country music, which led to a further purchase of a cabaret in Coquitlam called Boone County. Although Ron and Marilyn were proud of their contributions to country music, they recognized that their role was but a small one in the industry. They credit the BCCMA Directors and volunteers, radio stations and personnel, who worked tirelessly to promote and develop country music, which in turn led to successful industry ventures.  Ron and Marilyn’s proudest moments though, came when they were able to lend a helping hand to those in need in our country music family. They were proud of our industry for caring. The other satisfying accomplishments were watching the bands develop and move forward in their careers with recording contracts, and performing in larger venues. It made them proud to also be able to give back to the industry by hosting the Battle of the Bands and watching that contest culminate in recording contracts.  Upon receiving the B.C. Country Music Hall of Fame Award, the couple was most proud of having worked within a great industry and the most wonderful people, you, the country music fan.