My Last Flight

I feel the cool air hit my face as a wheelchair passenger assistant gently rolls me through the LAS Airport on Tuesday, July 9th 2024. She assisted my wife and I through the TSA all the way to our Gate. I can't be sure, but it had to be about a 3/4 mile walk and we gladly tipped for our professional assistance.

After seeing the number of folks that needed wheelchair assistance, I told the Gate Agent that I might be able to walk down the jet bridge to free up a resource. Agent says, "If you can walk, you'll get to go down first." Definitely not my intent, but after noticing that people were working on the AC in the jet bridge, I thought - might be for the best. It was having trouble keeping up with the record breaking Las Vegas heat.

The Pilot arrives as the Gate Agents are announcing that they would start the boarding process as soon as the plane is cool enough for passengers. I hear the Pilot mention to the Gate Agents that his FO called in sick and another gentleman, who didn't know it yet - would be filling in. He was a few minutes from landing and didn't know his plans for the evening had changed. The pilot disappeared down the jet bridge. After a few minutes, the Pilot comes back up and says, I think we should delay boarding until the FO is at least on the ground and preferably in route to our gate, because the plane isn't cool enough to board yet. The Gate Agents updated the passengers that boarding would be slightly delayed and why. A high performance team working together and making decisions in the best interest of their customers.

As we got a little further in the delay, all but one of the wheelchair passengers decided they could walk down the jet bridge and vied for position. I was A4 and gently walked down the jet bridge to see a middle aged, male, flight attendant who greeted me with a warm smile and directions on where to proceed. He soon noticed that I was frail and we had two heavier carry-on bags. He didn't have to, but quickly jumped into action and asked to help. I looked at him and said, "I used to love helping others do that, but I just can't help anymore."

As my wife and I got settled in our seats in the 3rd row, the FO arrived fairly winded and moved into the cockpit. 119 passengers loaded on the plane. It wasn't quite a full flight I heard them say. When everyone was squared away, I could see some concern for a passenger in the front row.. A woman was struggling and from what I gathered it was with nausea. Her husband had been sick the day before and the Flight Attendants or Hosts were deciding if it might be food poisoning or some other type of illness. Some passengers became a little concerned and both Flight Attendants were very helpful in assessing the passenger's situation and how that might affect the other 118 folks on the plane, all while calming the other passengers down. Masks were distributed and it was handled with professionalism. We proceeded to take off.

The Flight went even better than expected. For some reason, the fresh recirculated cool air was more than accommodating to me. The Flight Attendant provided snacks and drinks, then went back through and assisted anyone that wanted anything else with a serving attitude and hard work ethic. It made me reminisce.

In 2007, I was finishing up a 10 year career at Sprint as Project Manager and one of the first 20,000 PMP (Project Management Professionals) in the world. I used to talk to data entry personnel all the way to Executive Vice Presidents. I was good at providing the best information and using the power of influence on things I thought important.

After 10 years of managing many projects, I chose to pursue a full-time career in music. I accepted a voluntary separation and took about a 70% reduction in pay to sing 5 nights a week for two years. I was no longer the breadwinner and depended heavily on my wife and family to adapt to the new changes. That definitely wasn't easy, but it allowed me a gift. So rewarding that it changed my life.

I was discovered on MySpace and started receiving requests to perform. I began volunteering and serving others through non profits. One of the first was American Airlines' America's Huey 091 Foundation. American Airlines and I met in McKinney, TX around 2007 or 2008 to donate an IBOT mobility device to Eric Jordan. I performed the National Anthem to a flyover and in the ease of serving others, Jim Palmersheim and Steve Blankenship wisely put me to work performing in other important events such as High School Events, Fundraisers and even allowing me to perform at Balboa Hospital in San Diego on Christmas Day - eventually traveling to Iraq in 2009 for Operation Iraqi Freedom with the likes of Tony Orlando and Branson's Country Tonight.

During Easter of 2009, we partnered with Mary Eisenhower to hand out school supplies outside the wire in Balad, Iraq and performed at 21 FOB's (Forward Operating Bases) over 7 days. After a few years performing for Skyball Express which raised money for Snowball Express, American Airlines and I had developed a special relationship and really got the ball rolling to help me pursue a passion for serving others.

I must have been easy to work with, because word got around and I was invited to Snowball Express in about 2010 to perform for over 2,000 Gold Star Families in Dallas, TX. That is where I met Roy White and many volunteers from Southwest Airlines. Employees taking vacation, so they could serve families of the fallen. Talk about class. I performed formally and informally for Snowball Express over the next ten years and was honored to make so many friends. One of my most important memories was the first time I sang our National Anthem in front of our Gold Star Families. They allowed me in their space and I would be forever grateful.

Based on an introduction from World Golf Hall of Famer Tom Watson later in 2009, I began traveling for The Troops First Foundation out of Laurel, Maryland singing in hospitals like Walter Reed and BAMC in Fort Sam Houston. Over Thanksgiving of 2009, The Troops First Foundation brought me back to Iraq. After visiting the Balad Support Medical Hospital, I penned "Hero's Hwy", a song about the flag draped entrance of one of the most successful hospitals in the world. In 2010, we volunteered in the moon dust of Afghanistan and in 2011, we assembled in Kuwait for many volunteer performances.

Based on scheduling and domestic travel locations, I began flying Southwest Airlines primarily for The Troops First Foundation once or twice a month. I couldn't believe how kind the Flight Attendants were to me and my guitar. I felt so special in my straw hat and cowboy boots, I began singing inflight for SW to return the favor. I probably did this for about a decade. Can you believe I had only 1 travel issue on Southwest coming from the East Coast back to the Midwest.  I had to fly into Nashville and drive back to KC in time to make Christmas Dinner. Southwest more than compensated me for my trouble. Pretty astonishing track record.

I digress back to the early 1990's. I am attending William Jewell College in Liberty, MO as a Business Major. I ran across an interesting start up that I decided to do a paper and speech for class. It was a new up and coming airline company called Southwest Airlines. I think what intrigued me the most was when I read about a competitive domestic airfare that utilized an almost exclusively operating 737 Boeing Operations Support Model. I knew that was smart and would challenge all comers in the industry.

Fast forward back to today. I know the whole industry is under appropriate scrutiny at the moment for its current transportation challenges. And Southwest is no exception for its delay to upgrade legacy hardware/software the way I understand it, but am definitely not an expert. But please make no mistake. The one thing I didn't know about Southwest until "flying" them consistently, is they are filled with high performance teams. From Gate Agents to Passenger Assistant's to Experienced Pilots and maybe most notably some unbelievable and professional Flight Attendants.

I send this as a reminder to Southwest leadership that its greatest asset....are its workers. That is how companies always differentiate themselves from the marketplace. I hope the right person hears this. I hope maybe someone might still recognize my name and accept my thankfulness. I hope the team involved in Flight 1061 on July 9th, 2024 are recognized as experienced and professional assets that should never be taken for granted. I don't think I'll ever get to fly again. I think that was my last flight, so I had to share.

If you find this story uplifting and want to know why I was on your flight, feel free to visit: https://www.pokernews.com/news/2024/07/the-voice-matt-snook-enters-wsop-main-event-4646 5.htm.  May you walk gently thru your day.

Respectfully and Kindly,

Matt Snook

Friends,

It's been awhile since I've posted so I figured I needed to get something out to you.

I was hoping to have several good days once I quit treatments, etc.  A couple of weeks ago things turned pretty brutal.  I was so nauseous I quit eating.  We called Hospice in and after a few weeks of working thru some new Nausea mediciines, I finally found some relief.  I lost a lot of weight, but got that number trending back up this last week.  I am hopeful that the trend continues, but truthfully - you just don't know what each day will be like.  My hospice team is great and it has taken some load off my best friend and caregiver.

I appreciate everyone's continued peaceful and healing thoughts.  I will probably communicate less as I get closer to my time here on Earth.  I'm unclear of when that will be...I'm just kind of rolling with the flow.  My goal is to be comfortable as possible.  Here's to everyone's Summer and 4th of July Celebrations.  Appreciative of everyone's kindness!

May you walk gently thru your day,

MS

I was offered a couple options for Plan B Treatments. One was a Phase II clinical trial that included a pill combined with a possible radiation infusion that would be delivered via IV. The other was a combination of two pills approved by the FDA in 2016. Both options are designed to slow down the cancer throughout the entire body including the bones. After careful consideration of the potentially life-shortening side effects in addition to the manageable side effects that I'm already dealng with, I decided to decline treatment. I believe I will have more "good" days going this route. There is no way of knowing how long I might have or how many "good" days I might have, but my headspace is as good as ever. I want to thank everyone again for their support and I look forward to the "good" days that remain. Today is a "good" day and I wanted to make sure I updated everyone. May you walk gently through your day. MS

I just got home from my Oncology appointment and the update is: the treatment did not work as desired. The Pet Scan shows brighter colors than in January and the cancer did not diminish anywhere. The oncology board is going to meet on May 2nd and I am going to see what other options they might present on May 5th (ish). I will stop the current treatment and wait to hear from the experts. Sometimes it is what it is....and this is one of those things. May you walk gently thru your day,

MS

Took my last Yervoy immunotherapy infusion yesterday.  Yervoy helps unmask the camaflouged cancerous cells, so my immune system can attack it.  I will continue the Opdivo, bone strengthening and may receive more iron infusions in the future as needed.  I have a follow up PETSCAN scheduled for 4/25 and within about 48 hours from then, I should know more about my length of life.  I'm happy to say that I have been able to get out and enjoy some things and will continue to do that as my health permits.  We continue to receive amazing support from our community and we all very much appreciate the LOVE!  May you walk gently thru your day, MS

Update -

I took my third Iron infusion on Friday.  They have decreased my fatigue from a 5 to 8 to about 3 to 5, so very excited about that.  Also, the Oncologist is optimistic about my cough going away and not needing to use my nebulizer or inhaler for breathing.  The treatments might be working to slow the cancer down.  We won't know for sure for about another 45 days or so.  Once I have my last treatment of Yervoy in a couple weeks, I think I will get scanned/tested and should receive my prognosis/estimate on the amount of time I have left.  I am hopeful that my bone structure stays in tact and my left kidney continues to function normally, so I can do stuff with time I have left.  I am really happy with my care team and feel blessed to have them.  May you walk gently thru your day!  MS

Update - After my 2nd treatment on March 1st, I experienced a week of pain, fatigue and some nausea (not vomiting, but lack of apetite and smelled everything).  Not too many good days that week. 

I had an interesting day on March 8th.  Dr's recommended I get on Iron Infusions to help with my anemia.  While at the office visiting with my Doctor's nurse prior to the infusion, I was explaining that I was experiencing heart flutters and irregular heartbeat.  That is always a concern with cancer patients, so she was quick to start checking me out.  I told her in fact, I'm out right now and don't feel well.  She told me I was in AFIB with RVR.  RVR means that my heart rate was somewhere between 160 and 180 beats per minute and she sent me by ambulance to the ER. 

A fella in the ambulance had me do a couple things and when it didn't work, he mentioned using paddles.  I told him that if my heart was beating in that same range, please don't use paddles...I won't stroke on you.  Not sure if that made any difference, but he didn't use the paddles. 

I get to the ER and they start giving me medication via an IV to lower my heart rate/blood pressure.  Things were going pretty well until I went to move from the ER room to another room.  The medicine brought my blood pressure down far enough, I became unresponsive.  At least I communicated with the nurse and gave them a couple warnings before I zonked out.  It was a weird experience.  I could see and hear everyone, but didn't responsd to their verbal requests.  I got back to the ER room and laid flat and boom...came back sweaty and relieved to be apart of the responsive again.  I hate that I upset my family that was there.  I think it was a little scary.

They admitted me.  Did a echocardiogram and the results came back good.  Now I have an AFIB pill....awesome!  There were other concerns with sugar levels, etc. but that was chalked up to treatment and steroids.  I went home the next evening.  That next two weeks from 11th thru the 20th was pretty tough in terms of fatigue, nausea and sometimes pain.  On a good note - the AFIB pill worked and I have had no heart palputations or irregular heartbeats since.

During those next two weeks, I received some more negative news.  My genetic testing finally came back.  They tested 88 of my genes and I came back positive on 1 of them.  That means I have the a 50% chance to pass on a cancerous gene mutation to my sons.  That really sucks!  The reason I share this though, is that I think it was important for me to test and know.  There has been a lot of cancer on the Snook side of our family tree, so I wasn't too surprised that mine was most likely inherited.  Once my kids get tested, it is hopeful that they come back negative.  But if they don't, it will give them a more specific heads up where to focus for potential cancer.  Early detection is critical.  This is probably the last I'll speak to this aspect and I did get my son's permission before posting about it.  

On March 21st, I went for my follow up with cardiology and was thinking it wouldn't take long, because the medication worked as expected.  Nope - due to some swelling in my right ankle/foot, they sent me to check for blood clots.  So I had sonograms on both legs.  Result - tested negative for blood clots.

I met with my Oncology Dr. prior to my 3rd treatment and some positive news to share is my breathing has improved.  I'm not sure if it's due to the treatments or the medicine (Spiriva) I've been taking, but my Dr. thought it was great news in terms of treatment.  He said he thinks it's a sign my treatment is slowing the cancer down.  We won't be taking any scans until after the 4th treatment (last Yervoy treatment), but should know in about another month or two how the cancer has progressed.

March 22nd, I was pretty nervous for my 3rd treatment, but the care team did a great job helping me relax.  I received my 2 immunotherapy infusions, my bone strengthening infusion and my 2nd iron infusion.  Good news - no immediate reactions and as I went home that day, I thought well - I have the medicines I need to address side effects this time.

Usually, it is the next day around Noon for a wave of muscle and joint pain to come, but it actually started the evening of the treatment.  I wasted no time and used my medicine to get in front of it.  Woke up at 3am on the 23rd and thought wow - I haven't felt this good in months.  So today I have had some moments, but feel much better than I have in the past after treatments.  So I am hopeful to have to great days this upcoming week.

That's a long status, but we get lots of inquiries and so I want to share the best I remember along my journey.  Again, the community has been relentless in showering us with Love and Prayer.  We appreciate you.  May you walk gently thru your day and North Platte Baseball continue to have fun and win baseball games:) MS

Over the last 30 days, I've experienced alot of fatigue and have had to increase my pain meds to keep pain managed. 

Yesterday, I took my 2nd treatment which was only two immunotherapy drugs and not the bone strengthener.  I was visiting with a friend when they started the first infusion bag and wasn't thinking much about it, because I'd already done this once.  Within 1 to 2 minutes my airway shutoff.  I raised my hand and drew eye contact with one of the many nurses working the stations.  She came right over and asked me what was wrong.  I told her I couldn't breathe.  I told her I needed albuterol nebulizer now.  Within 10 seconds I had 4 of them addressing my needs.  My nurse immediately shot a steroid into my iv and within about 10 seconds, I knew I was going to be ok.  After a conference with 4 nurses, my nurse practitioner for the day and the oncall Doctor, we decided to run a 30 minute drip and try again.  The rest of my day went as expected.  My Oncology Dr. had explained prior to my treatments that allergic reactions could happen on my first treatment or my 12th treatment or never at all.  I found the day to be pretty intense as I thought I might die right there in front of a friend and about 5 strangers.  But I didn't.  Still here, feeling pretty good at 8:40am on the day after my treatment.  On the last treatment, I felt rough about noon the day after my treatment for about 7 days.  I am hopeful that I might feel better after this 2nd treatment.  I was informed yesterday, that I am going to have to take a weekly infusion for iron deficiency, which means I will get to see my awesome staff 3 times prior to my next treatment.

I hope that my updates don't stress people out, but I always keep it real and will continue to do so - no matter how my last adventure proceeds.  On another couple non-health related notes.  I had squared away that I will not be singing anymore and thought I was pretty ok with that.  I've been so blessed, It would be selfish to feel otherwise, but when I received my annual request to sing at the Military Spouse of the Year Award - I realized I might not have wanted to be done serving.  It hit pretty hard to have to make that call that I couldn't help them this year. 

On a positive note, a KC Royal was generous enought to reach out to me with a private video of support.  A couple weeks went by and I received a gift in the mail and an offer to meet sometime for batting practice this year.  I am hopeful to be able to take him up on that.  It's just another example of how many great people there are in this world.  And everyday a community member takes the time to bring us food or drop by for a visit or send a card in the mail....it makes me smile.  The positive has way outshined any negative in all of this.

Lastly, just to clarify for anyone that might not have researched my particular cancer...it is terminal.  There is no cure at this time.  I'm taking treatments to extend my life.  I've had to explain that to friends that were not aware and those conversations are tough.  I hate that folks have to feel that and process that, but usually by the time we are done talking...they feel better in knowing I'm comfortable with it, have no anger and am very at peace with my life's body of work.  I guess in all the things I have done or not done...I did them right by me. 

That might be the best advice I can give to anyone.  What do you want?  What is the plan?  Are you working the plan?  Are you happy in your adventure?  These questions might be asked on a monthly or yearly basis.

May you walk gently thru your day, MS  

I had my first immunotherapy treatment on Friday, February 9th.  I am on Infusion treatments, which means I sit in a chair and they sequentially give me bags of drugs.  I took 2 immunotherapy drugs and 1 bone strengthening drug.  It took me about 2.5 hours and was painless.  No immediate negative reactions thus far, but the day after was rough with some side effects i.e. Nausea, Fatigue and Pain.  Two days after was slightly better and today pain was relatively low, but my fatigue was very high.  I understand that after these treatments (every 3 weeks), it might be worse and then hopefully get better. 

I was able to watch the Chiefs game with my family as Austin drove in from Wyoming.  It was very good to see Austin.  I'm so proud of my family.  Stephanie has been the best caretaker and my boys are also very helpful.  Again, the community has been a great blessing and I appreciate your love and support.

I just got back from the Sarcoma Center for my follow up on my incision from the deep bone biopsy and my incision looks great. 

One of the challenges I will have is to maintain good bone density as the treatment fights the cancer that has went to the bones.  I wish this type of cancer didn't cause a chronic cough and trouble breathing, because I have dealt with Asthma my whole life.  I don't need to get the cancer flavor of breathing issues.  The cancer cough triggers bronchial spasms that effect my airways to my lungs, so I have to use an albuterol nebulizer about 3 to 4 times a day to alleviate the breathing restrictions.  Hopefully, the cancer treatments will eventually alleviate the breathing issues.  We shall see.

May you walk gently thru your day,

MS

I have a pretty rare kidney cancer called Sarcomatoid Renal Cell Cancer.  I will be starting my treatment next Friday and am hopeful my body will receive the infusions and my insurance supports the plan. My headspace is the same as it was on January 1st when they told me I had cancer, but at least now I have a plan.  I can work the plan and am hopeful to enjoy some more days like the one we are having today!  I hope everyone has a great weekend!

May you walk gently thru your day,

MS

This morning, I had an open surgery biopsy on my pelvic crest.  it went very well and the Dr. is pleased with the amount of tissue removed.  I'm a little sore, so I'm prepared for more than a little sore tomorrow:)  This biopsy is the last test that I'm aware of to help identify the origination of my carcinoma.  I was informed that my genome results have been delayed until Monday (due to the weather across nation) and the Genetic results should be about 7 days thereafter.  Between this bone biopsy today and the two blood tests...we are hopeful to find the origination.  

If you know me, you'll know I'll keep it real in these updates.  So please know in reading future updates, I'm going to post what I know - good or bad.  My headspace is still the same as it was when I received the news on 1/1/24 that I have cancer.  I want the opportunity to put in the work with a great treatment plan, but if the experts can't figure that out....I'm completely comforable with worse case scenario and feel no anger or fear.  It just is what it is.  I say this, because I don't want people stressing over my state of mind.  It is GOOD!  I love my life's body of work and am SO thankful for the love and support I have received thru this adventure. 

I learn something new everyday.  For example, when healthy - I think about how I would eat to satisfy hunger.  Now when I get up in the morning, the first thing that enters my body is a red delicious apple.  It's like my body thanks me for giving my body something so good and healthy.  It's like I can feel my body absorb the goodness.  I better understand, "an apple a day, keeps the doctor away". 

Lastly, we achieved our goal on the go fund me page!  Words can't express my gratitude for our community, family and friends.  Thank you, thank you....thank you.

May you walk gently thru your day,

MS    

I don't recall the year, but I was eating at the Blue Bar in Nashville.  Karen King cooked incredible comfort food.  Although I have eaten here many times with guests, today I was by myself.  I was digging into my green beans when Karen King came out of the kitchen and asked if I wanted to sing for my supper.  I said, "sure".  I must have been singing somewhere that day...probably for Musicans on Call, because I had my guitar in the Tahoe.  I was happy to sing for Karen, because she is the salt of the earth kind of person and also because Tanya Tucker was eating in there that day.  After I finished eating, I went outside and grabbed my guitar and came back in, sat in the chair at my table and Karen came out again to listen.  I don't remember what I sang.  Probably something I had just written.  And the reason I'm typing this story, is because of the way Tanya looked at me and smiled.  Like an aunt that thought the sun rose and set because of me that day.  I smiled back.  It's the only interaction I've ever had with her, but that moment was all I needed to know about Tanya Tucker that is important...she is loving.  If you get a chance to watch the documentary on Netflix....you won't regret it.  I guess that day made it mean a little more to me.

May you walk gently thru your day,

MS

Had Genetic Counseling and Blood drawn on Tuesday this week for Genome and Genetic Testing.  Had MRI's on my Abdomen and Pelvic area yesterday. Visited my Pulmonary Dr. also yesterday.  The MRI results came back inconclusive and we are still not sure of the origin of the carcinoma.  I should get back blood resuls in 7 to 12 days.  In the meantime, we are scheduling up a larger biopsy surgery for somewhere in the spine to try and get more information.  I know this is not a clear direction for treatment, but we need to find the origin before we put together a treatment plan...so it is what it is.  I am happy to say that I still doing alright for the shape I'm in.  I've had 3 good days in a row and I'm heading to watch basketball tonight.  My pain is being managed as needed with things you would take for a headache.  I continue to be thankful for everyone reaching out, donations and all the support.  May you walk gently thru your day, MS

Met with Oncologist and he agreed that the test results are inconclusive for origination of cancer.  The biopsies have eleminated some forms of cancer i.e. Lymphoma, Multiple Myeloma, etc. Oncologist did confirm that the junk in my right lung has come back negative, which is great - because it is less likely to be lung cancer.  

Next steps:  We are ordering up an MRI for the Kidney, gonna do more bloodwork on Tuesday for genetic testing and if neither of those identify origination of cancer, I have to go provide a larger biopsy of bone from my spine.  The cancer origination is key, because it has everything to do with the treatment plan, so we want to get it exactly right.

We continue to remain positive and patient.  Thanks to everyone for the support!

May you walk gently thru your day,

MS

No Pathology Update at this time.  Hopeful to get information prior to my Oncology Appointment on Thursday.  My headspace is still very good.

Thanks to all who have reached out, brought food, donated to the Go Fund Me and sent thoughts and prayers.  I very much appreciate you!

May you walk gently thru your day,

MS

Friends,

In late September, I started to experience some abnormal fatigue, shortness of breath and cough from what I thought was due to either covid or the flu.

After some doctor visits and CT Scans in October and November, it was believed I had a form of pneumonia (which may be true).  Unfortunately after a trip to the ER January 1st - we have found out I have some cancer to work thru.  At this time, we are not sure where it has originated from....only where it is currently.  I have abnormalities in a lymph node in my chest, junk in the right lung and many spots throughout the skeletal system i.e. T7 and T9 in the spine.  No wonder I was short of breath!

I was fortunate to get a Petscan and identify target areas for biopsy.  This morning they sent off Lung, Lymph Node tissue and Bone Marrow samples.  I should have better direction for a treatment plan by early next week.

Please do not worry about me, I'm fully prepared to do whatever I can to get back to doing what I love....but this might take me a minute.  I am going to focus on my health and will happily respond to emails from friends/fans that might have questions.  I know it is alot to process, I've had 3 days....so I apologize for just laying it on ya.

I appreciate everyones friend and fanship.  I will try to update everyone right here at my website.

May you walk gently thru your day,

Matt Snook 

Great news!  Bone biopsy came back with Kidney as the origination.  I don't have many details today, but I meet with my Cancer Dr. tomorrow to go over the game plan.  As weird as it sounds, kidney cancer is what I was hoping for - because of the treatment possibilities.  I hope everyone has as good of a day as I am!  Thanks to everyone for the support.

May you walk gently thru your day,

MS

ARLINGTON, VA (May 5, 2022) - Country Artist Matt Snook performed The National Anthem in support of The Armed Forces Insurance Military Spouse Of The Year celebration.  Sarah Streyder, a Space Force spouse, was named the 2022 Armed Forces Insurance Military Spouse of the Year® for her outstanding commitment to the military community.  Before announcing the overall 2022 Armed Forces Insurance Military Spouse of the Year®, the finalists from each branch of service were honored at the annual awards luncheon, which was hosted at the Renaissance Arlington Capital View Hotel and attended by military, elected, and civilian VIPs.

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (April 4th, 2022) - Paralyzed Veterans of America Celebrated their 75th Anniversary Gala at Indianapolis Motor Speedway on April 7th, 2022.  Snook entertained at the outdoor portion of the event with a trackside reception, then later kicked off main stage events by performing the National Anthem and entertained with a few songs during dinner.  Awards were presented by the PVA Executive Team and Team Penske Nascar Drivers including Ryan Blaney, Austin Cindric and NASCAR Cup Series Champion Joey Logano.  Retired Marine and Actor/Comedian Rob Riggle was the events' emcee and Multi-Platinum Singer/Songwriter Jake Owen closed the show.  

Plum, Pennsylvania

Jamestown, VA

KANSAS CITY, MO

WASHINGTON DC

McLouth, KS USA

EMPORIA, Ka. (August 1st, 2013) - No stranger to performing for a good cause, especially where U.S. troops and veterans stand to benefit, Missouri native and country recording artist Matt Snook's talents have been commissioned once again - this time to aide a smaller, much furrier kind of being. Scheduled to perform at the first ever WAHOO in the ZOO event at The David Traylor Zoo in Emporia on September 7th, all ticket sales will go toward building a permanent, year-round home for the lovable lemurs in the zoo's proposed Mission Madagascar Exhibit. The lemurs currently reside out of sight in a small building within their exhibit any time temperatures dip below 60 degress. The event, hosted by The Emporia Friends of the Zoo, will also include a BBQ dinner provided by Bobby D's. Beer and wine will be available for a cash donation.

"Being from this region, I understand what wonderful things The David Traylor Zoo has to offer for the people of Emporia and the surrounding areas," said Snook. "The event aims to provide some of the zoo's most treasured residents a year-round home - benefiting both the lemurs and zoo-goers. Any way I can contribute to the success of that I'm proud to be a part of."

"We are excited to have a rising country music star, Matt Snook, perform at our WAHOO in the ZOO event to help raise funds for Emporia's shining star, the David Traylor Zoo," adds Carolyn Davis, WAHOO in the ZOO Co-Chair.

Tickets for the event are $40 per person and can be purchased by calling Zoo Director Lisa Keith at (620) 341-4365. Attendants must be 21 years of age.

To learn more about the David Traylor Zoo, visit emporiazoo.org.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (July 13th, 2013) - A long-time supporter of U.S. troops, country recording artist Matt Snook performed as a show of that support on Friday, July 12th at the "Fore the Soldiers" Golf Tournament at Tiffany Greens golf course. The event - held to benefit the Research Center for Human-Animal Interaction's (ReCHAI) Veterans and Shelter Dogs Initiative - kicked-off with Snook's rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner and, later, a performance of God Bless America as Tiffany Greens General Manager Mike Zadalis presented veterans with a commemorative souvenir for the occasion.

"It was great being back on my home golf course Tiffany Greens for such an incredible event," said Snook. "The pairing of homeless dogs with veterans suffering from post traumatic stress disorder that ReCHAI has commissioned is nothing short of honorable and a cause I'm thrilled to be a part of."

Snook is currently working on material for his new, yet-to-be-titled album - a follow up to his EP's Hero's Hwy, Perfect Sense, and Forget - all of which can be found on iTunes. He can next be seen live at downtown Platte City's Summer Outdoor Concert & Movie on Saturday, July 13th for 7-9pm on the courthouse lawn.

BETHESDA, Md. (June 27th, 2013) - It was another week of back-to-back appearances for country recording artist Matt Snook, complete with a performance of God Bless America, sponsored by Feherty's Troops First Foundation, at the AT&T National opening ceremonies on Wednesday, June 26th.

The day was a great end-cap to a week that also included opening for fellow country artist John Michael Montgomery at Night on the Kaw in De Soto, Kansas on June 22nd, as well as a performance of original tune Hero's Highway the Troops First IED of Golf Luncheon, also in Bethesda, for those military personnel wounded in Iraq and Afghanistan.

"To be able to open for an incredible and well-respected entertainer like John Michael Montgomery, perform for those that have served our country, and sing at the opening ceremonies of the AT&T National all in the same week? It doesn't get much better than that," said Snook. "The wonderful thing about music is its ability to both entertain and heal... Being able to do what I do and experience that on a regular basis is such a blessing."

Next Snook heads to Pecan Island, Louisiana for the Gone Pecan Fishing Rodeo.

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. (June 14th, 2013) - After a busy week performing for the Old Shawnee Pizza Cars 4 Heroes event in Lenexa, Kansas and Camp Quality Northwest Missouri in Stewartsville, Missouri, country recording artist Matt Snook made an appearance on behalf of Feherty's Troops First Foundation, performing during the organization's after party event for the U.S. Open on Thursday, June 13th in Philadelphia.

Though rain delays kept Golf Channel funny man and Troops First co-founder David Feherty and swing expert Butch Harmon away, the party kicked off with a special trumpet performance of the national anthem by Jesse McGuire. Snook then performed originals "I Got Your Back" and "Hero's Highway" - a tribute to those injured in military service, several of whom were in attendance. The evening concluded with conversations between Troops First co-founder Rick Kell and four of the war fighters in attendance.

"As a long-time supporter of those serving our country, being a part of any event that supports the brave men and women in our military is always an honor," said Snook. "I love that Troops First is able to bring national attention to their cause through having a presence at an event like the U.S. Open."

Snook wraps up his whirlwind week with another performance on behalf of Cars 4 Heroes in Leavenworth, Kansas.

STEWARTSVILLE, Mo. (June 12th, 2013) - Fresh off of a performance for the Cars 4 Heroes event in Lenexa, Kansas on Saturday, Missouri native and country recording artist Matt Snook performed again on Sunday, June 9th - this time catering to a slightly younger crowd at Camp Quality Northwest Missouri's annual camp for children with cancer. Performing a mix of original tunes and covers, Snook kept the scene interactive, inviting several children up to sing along.

"The energy in the room was incredible," said Snook. "One's outlook on any given situation is so important. We addressed the confrontation of fear and how living outside your comfort zone can lead to incredible opportunities - then we sang. It was such a positive atmosphere."

Just after their conversation on fear, two camp-goers got up on stage to perform with Snook.

"Their peers erupted in applause and standing ovations after their performance. It was so fun to watch."

Snook now heads to Philadelphia to perform at the 2013 U.S. Open.

LENEXA, Kan. (June 10th, 2013) - Country recording artist Matt Snook was at it again, performing at the Cars 4 Heroes event at Old Shawnee Pizza on Saturday, June 8th. Sponsored by the venue and 101FM The Fox, the day saw another car given away - this time to deserving veteran David Jay (DJ) Vandewater II - as Snook performed a two-hour set of originals from all three of his albums, including new song "This Life Ain't For Everyone".

"It's always an honor to be part of an event that benefits someone that has served our country," said Snook. "It was fun fusing 101FM The Fox's classic rock music, my country music, and a great lunch provided by Old Shawnee Pizza to support an incredible cause."

The car was a long-needed break for Vandewater, who, after serving in the Navy for over five years, was honorably discharged do to a heart condition.

This is Snook's second performance for Cars 4 Heroes this year - the first in April at the 6th Annual Cars 4 Heroes Golf Tournament at Dubbs Dredd Golf Course in Kansas City. He'll next be performing this week at the 2013 U.S. Open in Philadelphia.

NORTH KANSAS CITY, Mo. (April 27th, 2013) - Despite short notice, country recording artist and Missouri native Matt Snook found himself right where he was meant to be on Friday, April 26th - performing for the 2013 Workers' Memorial Day Event at The Builders’ Association Education and Training Center. Singing the Star Spangled Banner and originals Solid Ground and I Got Your Back, it quickly became apparent to Snook that this was no ordinary gig.

"I decided to sing Solid Ground in memory of those killed on the job, and I Got Your Back for hope and inspiration," said Snook. "After my performance, I talked to a gentleman that had lost his brother on the job. He told me hearing Solid Ground brought him peace... It's easy to forget the power music can have. Any time I get to experience the wonderful effect of music I feel blessed. It was an honor to be a part of this event."

The event also included speeches by The Builders' Association's President Don Greenwell, OSHA Region VII's Regional Administrator Chuck Adkins, and Greater Kansas City AFL-CIO's President Pat “Duke” Dujakovich.

Snook is gearing up for a rigorous summer tour schedule and recently released his latest studio album, Forget, which is now available on iTunes.

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (April 19th, 2013) - Always eager to serve those that serve our country, recording artist Matt Snook lent his voice to the 6th Annual Cars 4 Heroes Golf Tournament at Dub's Dread Golf Club on Thursday, April 18th. The event, which raised money for veterans and their families, also gifted eight cars to needy military families. Snook kicked off the event by performing the Star Spangled Banner and, later, gave a post-tournament performance of new song I've Got Your Back.

"The idea that those that have so selflessly served our country could come home to hardship blows my mind," said Snook. "I'm always eager to help out both active military and our veterans any chance I get. What Cars 4 Heroes has done today is an incredible thing and I'm so proud to have been a part of it."

Snook recently released his latest studio album Forget, which is available for purchase on iTunes.

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (March 26th, 2013) - Due to the success of his initial CD release party for album Forget in Blue Springs earlier this month, country recording artist and Missouri native Matt Snook has scheduled a second CD release party to be held Friday, April 5th at No Place in St. Joseph beginning at 6pm.

Snook held his initial CD release show at the Skylight Bar and Grill on March 9th with an overwhelming turnout of 325 people - putting the venue at capacity - despite performances by Dierks Bentley and Miranda Lambert just a few miles away.

"To see the turnout we did with Dierks and Miranda both being in town was incredible," said Snook. "I want to make sure everyone north of the river has the opportunity to join in the fun and I'm looking forward to doing it all over again on the 5th."

Forget was produced by Josh Mendez at Nashville's Studio Red and is already available on iTunes.

Doors open at 6pm and admission to the event is $5, with the first 50 attendees receiving a signed CD with the price of admission. CD's will also be available for purchase, as well as other merchandise. For more information regarding this event or No Place, please visit www.noplacestjoe.com.

BLUE SPRINGS, Mo. (February 11th, 2013) - Country recording artist and Missouri native Matt Snook is set to celebrate the release of his latest studio effort, Forget, at the Skylight Restaurant & Bar on March 9th at 9pm. This will mark Snook's third album release since moving to Nashville in August 2010, having previously released a self-titled EP and Perfect Sense, released in 2012.

An Edgerton, Missouri-native, Snook tapped into his musical talents at a young age, winning his first talent competition at age six. His childhood consisted of trips across the United States to perform at Oprys and country theaters. "My parents were never pushy, but always supportive. The road trips were every bit as fun as the performances themselves," said Snook.

As an adult, he performed regularly in several bands in the Kansas City area before relocating with his wife Stephanie and two sons to Nashville. Despite a rigorous tour schedule, Snook spends much of his time working with the Troops First Foundation and the America’s Huey 091 Foundation - participating in five over seas tours over the past five years. With these platforms and a heart to serve, Snook continues his plight as a recording artist with the hopes of shining light on those that serve our country.

"I've been fortunate to meet so many talented people and create and record the music I have over the last few years. I'm excited to share everything Forget has to offer and am hoping it positively impacts my fans."

Forget was produced by Josh Mendez at Nashville's Studio Red and is already available on iTunes.

Doors open at 6pm and admission to the event is $5, with the first 50 attendees receiving a signed CD with the price of admission. CD's will also be available for purchase, as well as other merchandise. For more information regarding this event or Skylight Restaurant & Bar, please visit www.skylightmo.com.