COMMUNITY ROCKS FOR HEALTHCARE
Dedicated rockers took to their seats for Rockathon 2025 on Friday, June 20 at the Valley Manor Courtyard.
Now in its fourth year, the annual event saw participants rock the day away in support of local healthcare, including the needs at the Valley Manor
Hosted by the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation in partnership with Valley Manor, this year’s Rockathon welcomed a record-breaking 18 teams of volunteer fundraisers, along with a full lineup of entertainment, community spirit, and heartfelt giving.
The event opened with remarks from Cheryl Reid, Chair of the Foundation’s Board of Directors.
“None of this would be possible without your continued generosity,” she shared, thanking the community for its ongoing support.
A musical welcome by Joe Bratley and a bagpipe performance from Annadean Kerr set the tone for a day of rocking with purpose.
Executive Director Erin Gienow praised the teams for their dedication.
“You reached out to your networks, collected pledges, and raised awareness, and it didn’t go unnoticed,” she said. “Today, we celebrate not just the funds raised, but the heart and community spirit behind it.”
Funds raised this year will go toward local healthcare, including essential items at the Valley Manor including a new washer, window curtains, birthday and Christmas gifts for residents, and special outings.
The Rockathon would not be possible without its committee including Lisa Yantha, Sheila Lorbetskie, Julie Callon, Jill Vermaire, Susan Bernad, Sharon Florent, Sandy Musclow and Christine Hudder.
The Foundation also expressed deep gratitude to its event sponsors including:
Silver “Recline & Unwind” Sponsors: Northern Credit Union, Jason Ralph & Joe Vermaire (Royal LePage Team Realty), Madawaska Valley Lions, Quality Homes and Renovations, MediSystem, and Yuill’s Valu-Mart.
Bronze “Comfort & Soothe” Sponsors: LifeMark Seniors Wellness, Valley Fire Alarm Services, Fendock, Irvcon Limited, Wilno Tavern, and V&S Stedmans. A special thanks to Madawaska Valley Coffee for fueling the day and donating a prize.
Valley Manor CEO Trisha Deslaurier welcomed the 18 participating teams, which included: Team BLR/KHR Townships, Team Hospice Rocks, Barry’s Bay Belles, Valley Manor Resident Council, Team Calvin, Team CWL, Rockin’ Witches, The Brat Pack, Susan and Shawn Gregory, The Foundation Team Team Whitney, Team Barry’s Bay Legion, Gwen Coulas, MV Township Rocks, MVACL, Palmer Rapids and Area Lions Club, Rockin’ Redbirds, Northern Credit Union (who rocked at the branch).
“Thanks to your generosity, last year we were able to purchase essential items like a kitchen range, patient beds, mats, and a specialized humidifier,” Deslaurier said. “Your support has a real, direct impact.”
The day’s entertainment featured The Station Keeper Singers, Ted Murray, Gwen Coulas & Friends, Kim Shalla (leading chair Zumba), and a closing set by Jack Conners. Local school children also joined in on the fun and came for a visit.
There were sweet treats for all, including homemade cookies from Sharon Yandernoll and famous butter tarts from Luanne Hildebrandt. Guests also enjoyed a cake-cutting celebration, prize draws, and plenty of fun surprises throughout the day.
To cap off the event, the Rockathon committee revealed that more than $27,000 was raised, with donations still trickling in. The top earning team was Team CWL, who brought in an incredible $6,571.
“We are so grateful to everyone who rocked with us today,” said Christine Hudder. “Thank you to our teams, sponsors, donors, and the incredible committee who brought Rockathon 2025 to life."
With the final strum of Jack Conners’ guitar, Rockathon 2025 wrapped up with celebration and smiles - leaving the community inspired and more connected than ever through the shared act of rocking for a great cause.
