Centennial Sounds: A Celebration of 100 Years of Music in North Bay – Full Show Script

The Capitol Centre was filled with North Bay’s musical spirit on Nov. 23 as Centennial Sounds celebrated 100 years of local bands and entertainers.

This article combines photos of the event with the script used by the master of ceremonies, Shawn Kettner.

Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen, and welcome to Centennial Sounds — a celebration of 100 years of music in North Bay. My name is Shawn Kettner, and I am pleased to be with you this afternoon to take you on a journey through our rich musical history and the people who brought it all to life.

It’s an honor to introduce Dot Beaucage and Brenda Roberts, who will be offering the land acknowledgement to open our performance today.

North Bay has such a wonderful musical community and such a rich history that it would be impossible to include everyone in today’s show and program. We want to thank all of today’s participants, and to those we couldn’t include this time — please know that you are still an important part of our story, and this is just the beginning of documenting our musical history here in North Bay. Your contributions truly matter, and we’re so grateful for everything you’ve brought to our community.

NORTH BAY PIPES & DRUMS

In 1926, local merchant John McCubbin established what would become a proud North Bay tradition: the North Bay Pipes & Drums. The original band was made up of men of Scottish heritage and ex-service personnel, many of whom had received their musical training while serving in the military.

As the area’s only pipe and drum band, they quickly became a beloved part of community life, performing at parades, celebrations, and special events throughout the region.

During the Second World War, membership and activity declined, but when Victory Day came and freshly trained musicians returned home, the band was revitalized once again.

Dressed in the Royal Stewart tartan, full ceremonial attire, and feather bonnets, the band soon became part of a ceremonial trio that traveled to Legion events and proudly represented Branch 23 at gatherings across the community.

Through the dedication of its members and the generous support of sponsors, the North Bay Pipes & Drums has had the honor of representing this city both at home and abroad — including two liberation parades overseas and many major events right here in Canada.

Based on the dedication and commitment of its members, there is no doubt that the North Bay Pipes & Drums will continue to thrive, carrying forward their proud ambassadorial role for many years to come.

Please stand if you can and welcome the North Bay Pipes & Drums!

[Performance: Pipes & Drums enter from side aisles]

[Performance: House Band – “Old Time Rock and Roll”]

INTRODUCING THE HOUSE BAND

Alright, folks — before we dive into the next part of the show, we’ve got to give some love to the incredible musicians who are making today come alive! These are the ones setting the tone, keeping the rhythm, and driving every moment with their sound. Please put your hands together and make some noise for our amazing house band!

• On drums — Mike Foisy
• On guitar — Tim Lacelle
• On bass — Greg Gibbings
• On saxophone — Bill Vrebosch
• On keys — Don Delorme
• On lead guitar and fiddle — Don Gibbings

Together, they are the heartbeat of tonight’s concert!

TEMISKAMING & NORTHERN ONTARIO RAILWAY BAND

The arrival of the railways marked a turning point in North Bay’s story — a time of growth, progress, and new beginnings.

By 1924, that same spirit carried through in music, in the proud sounds of the Temiskaming and Northern Ontario Railway Band, also known as the TNO Band, which rose to follow in the footsteps of the Columbus Band before them.

Please welcome our talented house band, featuring Don Gibbings on fiddle, to play a song from that era: “Orange Blossom Special” — a song that captured the optimism and pride of a community on the move.

[Performance: House Band – “Orange Blossom Special”]

NORTH BAY AND PROUD

Voice-over by Mike Gelinas

In 1998, the North Bay Chamber of Commerce formed a special initiative — a committee dedicated to something simple but powerful: hope, optimism, and pride in our community. It was called the “North Bay and Proud Committee.”

As part of their mission, the committee partnered with Cogeco to produce a video that celebrated the people and places that make North Bay home.

At its heart was a song — written by Mike Gelinas, sung by Jonathan Bourget, and recorded right here in North Bay at John Ranger’s studio.

The message was simple: We are proud. Proud of where we live. Proud of who we are. Proud of where we’re going.

And clearly, that message resonated. Over 56,000 people have clicked on the original song and its many shared versions online, proving that North Bay pride is something people still connect with today.

In 2025, that message came full circle. Tourism North Bay selected the original “North Bay and Proud” song to accompany their official tourism video, connecting the spirit of the past with the vision of today.

Let’s take a look!

[Video plays above]

1. EGIDIO VIRGILI

In order to understand the evolution of music in North Bay, it’s impossible to ignore the influence of Mr. Egidio Virgili.

In 1913, Mr. Virgili joined the TNO Railway and soon took over the Columbus Band — a talented group that went on to win first place at the Canadian National Exhibition in 1920.

Apparently, Mr. Virgili was recruited from the Coniston area, near Sudbury, to come to North Bay and lead the TNO Community Band. He worked in the car shops during the day, and in his spare time began teaching young musicians, many of whom would later be recruited into the band.

As the band grew, many of these musicians formed their own dance bands and performed in the local dance halls and in the pit orchestras at the local theaters of the time — places like the Royal Theatre and the Capitol Centre, which opened as the Vaudeville Theatre in 1928. There were also some prominent dance halls at that time, like The Top Hat Pavilion, which became central to North Bay’s social life throughout the 1930s, ’40s, and ’50s.

Over time, the TNO Band evolved into the ONR 8th Field Squadron Band.

Some of the very active bands of that era were led by the Lucentis, the Cangianos, and the Sarlos, who played in both the TNO marching band and the dance bands.

Most of these musicians performed in both worlds — the precision of the marching bands and the rhythm of the dance halls — shaping the sound and spirit of North Bay’s musical heritage.

VIC VIRGILI

By the 1950s, the local music scene was alive with energy. Bands led by Vic Virgili, Irwin Prescott, and Graham Nesbitt began to dominate the airwaves and the dance halls like the Rainbow Gardens.

As radio grew in popularity, Vic Virgili’s shows became a community favorite. And when North Bay finally got its own television station, Vic brought his talent to the screen, hosting a weekly variety show that showcased local performers.

As a tribute to Laverne Hummel, Don Gibbings will play “Bowing the Strings” — this was Laverne’s closing song at the end of every show.

[Performance: House Band – “Bowing the Strings”]

OFFENBACH

Offenbach — one of Quebec’s most legendary rock bands — was born out of the vibrant ’70s music scene. With their gritty, hard-rock sound and the unforgettable voice of Gerry Boulet, they captured the spirit of a generation.

In 1978, the arrival of North Bay’s own John McGale marked a creative high point with the album Traversion, their biggest success. McGale’s songwriting with Pierre Huet, along with fellow North Bay native Breen LeBoeuf’s standout hit “Mes blues passe plus dans’ porte,” helped cement Offenbach’s place in Quebec rock history.

Their popularity grew so much that they sold out major venues, including the iconic Montreal Forum. Though the band disbanded in 1985, their legacy continues to inspire — loud, proud, and unmistakably French Canadian.

[Video plays]

While we get things set up for our next act, I’m going to grab a quick sip of water. Enjoy the music for a moment — we’ll be right back with more great performances!

BACK IN TYME

Back in Tyme brings a lively blend of traditional and modern country, with touches of classic rock that gets every crowd singing and dancing.

Frank “Newfie” Robbins, Cheryl Hughes-Robbins, Stan Wilkolaski, and Ervil Boreland have been North Bay music mainstays since 1973 and have toured Ontario, Nova Scotia, and Florida.

All four are honored members of Northern Ontario’s Country Music Hall of Fame, and together, Back in Tyme keeps the spirit of country music alive and kicking wherever they play.

Let’s now welcome Back in Tyme to the stage!

[Live performance]

DON BROSE AND THE CHORDS

Brothers Don and Gord Brose were among the young musicians who came into the music scene around 1959 and 1960. A few years later, Don went on to form his own group — Don Brose and the Chords — adding a new sound to the city’s growing roster of talent.

Around that same time, new rock ‘n’ roll bands started popping up — names like Kenny and the Bee Bops and The Jades — keeping the crowds dancing across town.

Many of these acts played at the Manor Hotel, the popular venue perched at the top of Algonquin Hill. And in a charming twist of history, the Manor had once been the original St. Joseph’s Hospital.

It was a time when music filled the halls, the airwaves, and the hearts of North Bay, setting the stage for a new generation of performers to come.

Don’s wife is in the crowd tonight and says that “Don is the only teenager that she ever raised.” Please welcome Mr. Don Brose!

[Live performance]

HARLEY RENAUD

Harley has spent a lifetime sharing his passion and talent with audiences across the country. He’s a winner of the prestigious Canadian Open Country Singing Contest, and his rich voice and heartfelt performances have earned him the honor of opening for country greats like Kitty Wells, Tom T. Hall, and Prairie Oyster.

But Harley’s influence goes far beyond the stage. As president of the Nipissing Country Music Association and longtime chair of the Northern Ontario Open Country Singing Contest, he has championed the growth of country music in Northern Ontario, mentoring and encouraging countless up-and-coming artists.

His contributions have not gone unnoticed. Harley Renaud has been honored by the Northern Opry, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and proudly holds a place on the Nipissing Country Music Wall of Honour.

[Video plays]

While the stage gets set for our next performers, I’ll take a moment to wet my whistle. Enjoy the tune while we bring the next band on!

DON DELORME

Let me introduce you to Don Delorme — a singer and talented piano player. Don’s got that classic Floyd Cramer–style country piano that really gives our sound a special vibe.

Don has been sharing his love of music for over 60 years, starting at the age of 12 when he first took to the piano. Over the decades, he’s played with groups such as The Variety Boys, Country Comfort, and The Bluez Brothers Cover Band out of Sudbury, performing across Canada at dances, bars, and festivals. A 2016 inductee into the Great Northern Opry, he is also on the Nipissing Country Music Association Wall of Honour.

Don continues to entertain audiences around North Bay with Don and Friends, often joined on stage by his talented grandchildren, keeping the family tradition of music alive.

Joining him today is his grandson Leo Miller Delorme, who is an up-and-coming young artist who recently played in Niagara Falls. Leo’s love of music began as a toddler, performing with his grandfather at the age of three. He started formal lessons at five and got his first guitar at eight. Today, he regularly plays with his grandfather’s band, sharing his music at all-ages venues.

Let’s hear it for Don and his special guest — his grandson Leo!

[Live performance]

DOWNCHILD BLUES BAND

In 1969, a young guitarist from North Bay sparked a musical revolution. Donnie “Mr. Downchild” Walsh co-founded the legendary Downchild Blues Band with his brother Hock, igniting the Canadian blues scene with their high-energy sound.

Their hit “Flip, Flop and Fly” became a national classic, and today, Donnie remains at the helm — still performing, still inspiring, and still keeping the blues alive. A Juno Award winner and Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee, Donnie Walsh is a true North Bay legend and a national treasure.

[Video plays]

BILLY AND THE BELMONTS / THE DESCENDANTS OF TYME

As the local music scene continued to grow, more and more groups began to take shape, and among them was one destined to make its mark: Billy and The Belmonts.

The original lineup featured Len Manella, Don Jacobs, and Bill Vrebosch, with Billy at the front. Like many bands of the era, they went through a series of changes over the years, refining their sound, their image, and their chemistry on stage.

After a stint on the road with Jake Thomas, Benny Branah, and Al Sage, Billy returned home, and soon the Belmonts landed a steady gig at a place known as The House of Elba, which was part of the historic Continental Hotel.

The House of Elba, a lively hotspot in its day, was known for its energy, its crowds, and its music. Today, it’s remembered under a different name — Cecil’s and the Grand Event Center — though the memories of those nights still echo through its walls.

During their engagement at the Elba, another band — The Bob Kart Trio (Bob Ahern, Ken Simms, and Art Cardinal) — played in a separate section of the Continental. It was a time of collaboration, competition, and constant creativity.

It was then that Billy, Bob Ahern, and Ken Sims decided to start something new. Together, they formed a band called The Descendants of Tyme — a name that was created by Ken himself. Joined by bass player Denis Bisson, the group quickly found their rhythm.

They began with a few weeks at The Red Line Inn in Callander, building their following one night at a time, before moving on to a new residency at the Commodore Hotel, ready for the next chapter in their story.

In the heart of North Bay’s music scene, few names carry the same resonance as Don Brose and the Chords. When they moved to the Voyager Hotel, their sound — a blend of energy, talent, and originality — quickly caught fire.

Billy and Don wrote songs that would define a local era. Performing as The Descendants of Tyme and The Chords, they played six nights a week, dominating the North Bay nightlife and becoming a staple for music lovers across the region.

After four successful years at the Commodore, Billy and The Descendants of Tyme made their next move — to the Fraser Tavern. There, Billy, Bobby, Kenny, and now Angie Nunner brought their signature sound to new audiences. Following Angie Nunner’s departure, David Gillespie stepped into the role, and together they played for nearly 12 years, filling the venue with rhythm, laughter, and community spirit.

But like all good stories, theirs had a closing chapter. In 1992, the band disbanded, leaving behind memories that still echo through North Bay.

One unforgettable highlight came when The Descendants of Tyme recorded two custom songs: “Duke the Toque” and “Cara Mia.” Though they created several recordings, “Duke the Toque” stood out, evolving into the official theme for the North Bay Winter Carnival. It was a song that captured the spirit of the season and of the city itself.

From the Voyager Hotel to the Fraser Tavern, from “Duke the Toque” to “Cara Mia” — please welcome Bill Vrebosch with Don and Friends and a very special guest, Angie Nunner, on bass guitar!

[Live performance]

MIKE FOISY

Mike Foisy is a longtime North Bay drummer whose solid rhythm, versatility, and easygoing professionalism have made him a staple in the local music scene. He plays with bands like The Funkers (where he is known as Grandaddy Funker), The County, Gravitas, and Don and Friends, just to name a few, bringing his signature groove to every stage he hits.

On top of his drumming, Mike also has a great singing voice, and when he takes on “Tennessee Whiskey,” he absolutely nails it.

Beyond performing, Mike was instrumental in helping put this show together — so much so that he was given the title of Technical Director, whether he liked it or not. His commitment, musicianship, and behind-the-scenes support continue to make him an essential part of North Bay’s musical community.

As the next act steps into place, I’m going to take a brief water break. Stay tuned — more great music is coming your way!

GRAVITAS

Gravitas is a versatile North Bay band known for blending classic rock, country, and contemporary styles. With years of performing at local venues and community events, including North Bay’s Summer Concert Series, they bring energy, skill, and crowd-pleasing performances to every stage. Their dynamic sound and local roots have made them a standout in the North Bay music scene.

Please welcome Gravitas to the stage!

[Live performance]

PAUL PRUNEAU

Paul started making music at three years old and never stopped. His first band was called “Mamas Little Helpers.” Inspired by the Beatles, Robert Plant, the blues, and Ella Fitzgerald, he built his voice by feel, always singing at 110 percent. He has recorded with Jake and The Fundamentals, played with The Journeymen, and now performs with the six-piece band Kazual Fitt.

P.S. Kazual Fitt will be performing on Cogeco channel 12 for the Children’s Christmas telethon November 29 from 2–7 p.m., and he hopes that you can tune in.

Let’s welcome Paul and the Journeymen to the stage!

[Live performance]

NICKELODEON

Nickelodeon emerged in the 1970s as a tight-knit five-piece band. The lineup featured Dave Barker on guitar, Moe Durocher on keyboards, Gerry Lefebvre as lead singer, Ron Pratte on drums, and John Roynon handling the bass.

Their early sound drew heavy influence from the Eagles, blending rich harmonies with melodic rock. But Nickelodeon was never afraid to evolve.

In the late 1970s, they expanded their lineup with a horn section, diving into brass-backed covers inspired by bands like Chicago and Blood, Sweat & Tears.

Later, the band brought in John Vossos on tenor saxophone and vocals, injecting a soulful energy that gave their music a fresh new edge.

Nickelodeon performed actively through the early 1980s, carving out a unique place in the rock scene with their blend of rock, brass, and soul.

[Video plays]

HOLLY CUNNINGHAM

Holly Cunningham’s song about North Bay is called “I Belong Right Here.” It was featured in a City of North Bay promotional video and later released as a digital track on Bandcamp. The song blends playful jazz with airy folk sensibilities and celebrates the sense of belonging and community in North Bay.

It was written by Holly Cunningham, produced by Ben Leggett, and includes contributions from local musicians on bass, guitar, drums, piano, and backup vocals. All proceeds from the track benefited the North Bay Food Bank, making it both a musical tribute and a charitable effort.

Holly Cunningham’s video celebrating North Bay is going to take us out to our intermission. Make sure to get your 50/50 tickets in the lobby to help support LIPI. See you in 20 minutes!

[Video plays and house lights up]

INTERMISSION

NORTH BAY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Welcome back, and I hope you bought lots of 50/50 tickets!

The North Bay Symphony Orchestra, founded in 1977, is a not-for-profit organization at the heart of North Bay’s arts community. Each season, the Symphony presents exciting concerts and outreach programs that inspire audiences of all ages. With a strong focus on music education through its string school and curriculum-based programs, the Symphony helps nurture young talent.

A proud recipient of the Vida Peene Award from the Ontario Arts Council, the North Bay Symphony continues to bring music, education, and community together. Here’s a special message from Josh Wood, their Music and Artistic Director, on behalf of the North Bay Symphony.

[Special message video plays]

THANK YOU TO THE TEACHERS

We’d like to recognize the heart and soul behind every note, scale, and song — our music teachers.

They do more than teach notes on a page; they inspire creativity, confidence, and joy.

They stay late for rehearsals, cheer the loudest at performances, and help students find their voice — sometimes literally.

Behind every great musician is a teacher who believed in them first.

To all our music educators — thank you for your passion, patience, and the harmony you bring to every classroom and stage.

[Video plays]

ALISON DENOME AND THE NPSC INTERMEDIATE BAND

When Bill Vrebosch was teaching music at Mother St. Bride’s and St. Hubert Elementary Schools, he taught a little ditty to help his students learn their instruments — a tune called “Rock One.” Over the years, thousands of students learned to play this song, and thousands more will continue to learn it through the teacher who followed in his footsteps.

That teacher is Alison Denome, who now teaches the Grade 7 and 8 students of the Nipissing Parry Sound Catholic School Board out of St. Hubert’s School. Not only has Alison revived an intermediate school band in our area, strengthening music education for the next generation, but she is also a member of the North Bay Symphony Orchestra, contributing her talent to the region’s classical music scene. She is dedicated to inspiring young musicians through both classroom teaching and community performance.

Please join me in giving a warm welcome to the NPSC Intermediate Band, joined by alumni, under the direction of Alison Denome, performing the classic and beloved student favorite, “Rock One.”

[Live performance]

1. JOSEPH SCOLLARD HALL MARCHING BAND

At St. Joseph Scollard Hall, the marching band is more than just music — it’s a movement. Founded by music teacher Brian Overholt, the SJSH Marching Band began with just 20 to 25 students, most of them from the concert band. Inspired by the energy and tradition of American high school marching bands, Mr. Overholt brought that spirit to their school. Since then, the band has grown in both size and passion, becoming a proud symbol of school spirit and unity.

Unfortunately, the marching band can’t be with us today, as they are proudly representing our city at the 120th Santa Claus Parade in Toronto. But they didn’t forget about us — they sent us this video to share a glimpse of their performance. Let’s take a look!

[Video plays]

50/50 DRAW

Before we get back to our music, let’s take a quick minute to pull the winning 50/50 ticket in support of LIPI. LIPI supports so many people in our community who have fallen on hard times or have fallen through the cracks. They are the voice that cuts through so many layers of red tape and bureaucracy.

Centennial Sounds was lucky to partner with LIPI, with all proceeds from this event going to a fund that will support children and youth wanting to participate in music and art programs.

Special guest drummer Thomas Dougherty, can we get a drum roll please?

And the winner is — [name announced]! Congratulations. Please see Gisele at the back of the auditorium to collect your winnings.

Lana and Amanda, don’t go away just yet. Tim and I, on behalf of the Elks Club, would like to present LIPI with a check for… another drum roll please, Thomas… [amount announced].

THANK YOU VOLUNTEERS

I would like to take this opportunity to say thank you to the many volunteers who helped put this show together. A small group of people came together to form a collective to create this one-time event. A show like this usually takes 6–12 months of planning, and this collective pulled it off in approximately 10 weeks.

From the collective:

• Tanya Vrebosch
• Bill Vrebosch
• Gisele Vrebosch
• Lisa Vrebosch
• Sherry Cullings
• Carol Toebes
• Mike Gelinas
• Lana Mitchell
• Molly Davis

And to all the volunteers who are helping out today. A special thank you to every performer who has graciously donated their time to play for you today! Please give them a round of applause.

Now… let’s get ready for more great music!

SHAWN SASYNIUK

Shawn Sasyniuk, a native of North Bay, combines heavy grooves with musical savvy. Shawn has shared the stage with many artists, including Juno Award winners Susan Aglukark and Roch Voisine, as well as ECMA and MNB award winner Chris Colepaugh. He has made several television appearances on TFO, CBC, Radio-Canada, and Musique Plus.

Shawn has also played drums and other instruments on several artists’ albums and has engineered, mixed, and/or produced albums for Matt Thibeault, En bref, Kings Of Our Kin, Cody Allen, Mireille Moquin, Offenbach, John McGale, Tricia Foster, Serge Monette, and Anique Granger, to name but a few.

Please welcome Shawn Sasyniuk!

[Live performance]

SEAN KELLY

Sean Kelly is now a Toronto-based guitarist, singer, and songwriter, best known as the founder and frontman of the glam rock band Crash Kelly. He’s played with Canadian rock icons like Helix, Coney Hatch, and Lee Aaron, and is currently touring with Nelly Furtado.

Sean has also collaborated with artists such as Gilby Clarke, Rough Trade, and Rudy Sarzo, and co-founded the Toronto rock group 69 Duster. Though on tour right now, he’s sending us this special video message.

[Video plays]

GREG GIBBINGS

Greg Gibbings is a skilled bass player and was a key member of the Gibbings Family Band. Performing since 1982 alongside his family, Greg’s smooth bass lines and engaging stage presence keep the energy high for audiences of all ages. He performs with Don and Friends to this day.

A special shout-out to Dick, Monika, and Kathie Gibbings from the Gibbings Family Band, who are joining us today in the audience.

1. HOUSTON BAND

The J Houston Band is a dynamic power trio delivering a high-energy rockin’ blues experience. Known for edgy slide guitar, solid bass, and tight drumming, they captivate audiences and keep crowds on their feet.

They’ve shared the stage with blues greats like Carlos del Junco, JW Jones, and Miss Emily. With four original albums and international radio play, their music has also been featured in the UK’s Fireworks magazine compilations. Critically acclaimed for albums like Hunter and Milestone, the band continues to stand out with their unique blues-rock sound.

Please welcome Jim Houston, Carolyn Houston, and Ron Joanisse to the stage!

[Live performance]

CORY MARKS

Born in North Bay, Ontario, Cory Marks is a country rock singer-songwriter known for blending outlaw country with hard rock. His breakout single “Outlaws & Outsiders” was certified Platinum in Canada and Gold in the U.S., reaching top 10 on U.S. rock radio and #3 in Germany — a first for a Canadian country artist.

He’s collaborated with artists like Travis Tritt, Mick Mars, and Sully Erna, and has released multiple albums, including Who I Am and Sorry for Nothing. Cory also has a background in hockey and aviation, having earned his private pilot license in 2021.

He just released Sorry For Nothing Volume 2 with the hit song “Whiskey River.” North Bay, along with his parents Paul and Rachelle, could not be prouder of him. Cory could not be here with us today but sent us this video!

[Video plays]

TIM LACELLE

Tim Lacelle — although he has played in many bands over the years, The Night Ryders has always been his primary passion and main project. A dedicated member of the Elks Club, he is instrumental in organizing the renowned Sunday jam sessions there. As the vocalist for The Night Ryders and an exceptional guitarist, his talent and leadership are central to the band’s sound and presence.

While our next band gets ready to hit the stage, I’m going to take a quick water break. Enjoy the tunes for a moment — the show will be back in full swing in just a minute!

COVERALLS

Coveralls are a high-energy North Bay cover band known for rocking alternative, punk, and classic hits at local venues and events. The band features Dani Roy (lead vocals), Nick Edwards (lead guitar), Kevin Perreault (drums), Joel Latour (bass), Chris Pascoe (guitar & vocals), and Will Hall (guitar, vocals & keys).

Please welcome Coveralls!

[Live performance]

BRYAN DUFFY

Bryan Duffy is a singer, songwriter, and guitarist from North Bay, Ontario, now based in Las Vegas. A lifelong student of music, he’s performed since age 17 and draws inspiration from legends like Hendrix, Beck, Zappa, and Johnny Winter.

Bryan has toured with Canadian acts such as Barenaked Ladies and Blue Rodeo, and currently rocks nightly with his band Garage Boys at top Las Vegas venues and major U.S. events. His new solo album, The Red Brick Road, showcases his passion for writing, recording, and performing music that’s unmistakably his own.

Bryan sent us this video from Las Vegas.

[Video plays]

JAKE THOMAS

Unfortunately, Jake Thomas couldn’t be with us here today, but we still wanted to recognize him in the show. Playing guitar since age 9 and trained with Russ Smith by 12, touring clubs across Detroit and Montreal at 17, Jake Thomas went on to perform with more than seventeen bands, including Buckstone Hardware and Aaron Space.

In the 1990s, he formed The Fundamentals — Jake Thomas, Jesse Thomas, Michael Brewes, Ryan Rogers, and Rob Joanisse. His work spans sixteen albums and collaborations with filmmakers Don Scardino and Don Shebib. Today, Jake continues to share his lifelong passion for music through both band performances and intimate solo and duo shows.

Time for a quick sip of water while the next band sets up. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the music for a minute!

BIRDS OF A FEATHER

Birds of a Feather — they are a pop cover band known for energetic, feel-good performances. With vocalists Angélique Rogers, Marie Johnston, and Kimberly Fletcher, and a solid lineup featuring Ryan Rogers (bass), Peter Dawson (guitar/vocals), Rob Joanisse (drums), and Jordan Abraham (piano), they deliver crowd-pleasing hits from every era.

A local favorite for over 15 years, they light up venues across the city. Today, Brent Ogletree will be filling in for Rob on drums. Let’s put our hands together for Birds of a Feather!

[Live performance]

SHAWN KETTNER

Tanya Vrebosch takes over as MC

Thank you all for supporting this event, our sponsors, LIPI, and all the bands. And now I’d like to introduce our MC for the day.

Shawn Kettner is coming up! Since he can’t introduce himself, I have been asked to sub in. First, we want to thank Shawn for being our MC today — hasn’t he done a great job?

Shawn has spent much of his life connecting people through music. After nearly 20 years as a mobile DJ and event host, he returned to playing live on drums with the Night Ryders and currently fills in with local bands as needed. He volunteers with local jam nights and hosted the Nipissing Country Music Singing Contest. Shawn plays in, and hosts, the North Bay Elks Lodge Sunday Showcase, and he is chair of the Elks Big Christmas Event Committee.

Please welcome Shawn Kettner with Tim Lacelle and the house band!

[Live performance]

CLOSING

House band continues playing music; Shawn returns as MC; Mike returns to drums

Thank you to Don and Friends for being such a great house band, thank you to the performers, the volunteers, and to all of you for coming out today!

Here’s to another 100 years of music — play us out, guys!

[House band plays]

TALKING POINTS / REMINDERS

• 50/50 — Buy tickets to help support LIPI
• Get a poster of tonight’s event with either a monetary donation or with a toy for the toy drive
• Sponsors:
  • Battery Battery
  • Charlie’s Boneyard
  • The City of North Bay
  • Beatty Printing
  • Creative Industries
  • Max Propane
  • Port North Bay
  • Long & McQuade
  • Freeman & Company (Industrial Safety & Paper Supply)
  • Danika Degagne (Century 21)
  • Night Rider
  • Vrebosch Music
• North Bay Museum — North Bay’s Musical Roots
• Capitol Centre — Thank you to the staff

End of Script