COMMUNITY ROCKS FOR THE VALLEY MANOR
Dedicated rockers took to their seats for Rockathon 2026 on June 19 at the Valley Manor in Barry’s Bay.
Threatening weather forced the event inside, but that did not dampen the spirits of everyone taking part.
Now in its fifth year, the annual event saw participants rock the day away in support of critical equipment purchases for the Valley Manor.
Hosted by the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation (SFVHF) 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.
A musical welcome by Joe Bratley and a bagpipe performance from John Mullen set the tone for a day of rocking with purpose.
Funds raised this year will go toward essential items at the Valley Manor including a new dryer, two new therapeutic bathtubs, birthday and Christmas gifts for residents, and special outings.
The event opened with remarks from Erin Gienow, Executive Director for the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation.
“We would not be able to fulfill the Valley Manor's wish list without the incredible support of our Rockathon teams,” she shared, thanking the community for its ongoing support.
This year’s Rockathon Committee consisted of Lisa Yantha, Gwen Coulas, Sheila Lorbetskie, Julie Callon, Susan Bernad, Sharon Florent, and Christine Hudder. Day-of support was provided by Jane Beahan, Caroline Mallany and Shawn Gregory.
The Foundation thanked its sponsors, led by Rest and Relax Gold Sponsor Welk Electric & Welk Plumbing & Heating. Recline & Unwind Silver Sponsors included MediSystem, Madawaska Valley Lions Club, Lifemark Senior Wellness, Barry's Bay Northern Credit Union, St. Francis Herb Farm, Madawaska Coffee and Yuill's Independent. Comfort and Soothe Bronze Sponsors included Wilno Tavern, Drapeau Automatic Sprinkler Corp., Jason Ralph of Royal LePage Team Realty, Medigas, Fendock and Irvcon Limited.
Valley Manor Administrator Cathy Borutski welcomed the 18 participating teams, which included:
BLR/KHR Townships, Team Hospice Rocks, the Barry’s Bay Belles, Valley Manor Resident Council, Team Calvin, Team CWL, The Elf Squad, Team Heroes Who Rock, Susan and Shawn Gregory, The Foundation Team, Madawaska Valley Township, Team MVACL, Palmer Rapids and Area Lions Club, Rockin’ Redbirds, Team Will Rock You, Round Lake Beach Babe Rockers, The Golden Oldies, and Team Northern Credit Union who rocked at the branch.
Entertainment throughout the day featured The Station Keeper Singers, Ted Murray, Gwen Coulas & Friends and a closing set by Jack Conners. Dianne Cox delighted attendees with Latin dance performances, while local school children stopped by for a special visit.
There were sweet treats for all, including homemade cookies from Sharon Yandernoll. Guests also enjoyed prize draws and plenty of fun surprises throughout the day.
To cap off the event, the Rockathon committee announced that more than $28,000 was raised, with donations still being received. The top earning team was Team CWL, who brought in an incredible $5,220.
“We are so grateful to everyone who rocked with us today,” said SFVHF Communications and Fundraising Offcier Christine Hudder. “Thank you to our teams, sponsors, donors, and the incredible committee who brought Rockathon 2026 to life.”
With the final strum of Jack Conners' guitar, Rockathon 2026 came to a close, leaving the community inspired and united through the shared act of rocking for a great cause.
