It was a classy affair at our 180th Celebration Gala last weekend, November 4th, 2023, which we shared with the 50th Anniversary of the Royal Marines Association Ontario. It was a beautiful meal, with speeches by Director of Music Paul Storms, RM Maj Paul Weston (ret), Deputy Mayor Nicole Beatty and our MC, Charlynne Jourard, the Gala Chair. The oldest and youngest Marine present (Keith Dawson and Paul Weston) cut their 50th cake and the band cake was cut by president Chris Devlin and our oldest serving band member Glen Workman. As an added twist – they got to cut the cake with a real sword! Attendees perused our history displays and took part in our silent auction before the dancing began!
Band Vice President Stephanie Siegner honoured our concert MC Diana Storen at the gala, presenting her with a beautiful bird hand-carved by band member Brad Kelly. Diana was the first female musician to join the band. And then it was time to dance, dance, dance! Thanks to the Royals who kept the tunes coming all night long. What a wonderful night!
If you think our gala was all stiffness and formality, there are pictures that prove it wasn’t! Check out our picture gallery to all the smiling faces having a blast. Wasn’t that a party?