History of the Penetangore Pipe Band
2001
July - Kincardine Ontario resident Brian Fry is frustrated by the number of musicians along the Lake Huron shoreline who have to travel to compete in pipe bands. He believes there are enough local musicians to start a competition pipe band in the Grey-Bruce-Huron area of Ontario, Canada. Local musicians have traditionally travelled from the region to larger centres to advance their skills in competition.
August - Brian recruits Bill McLeod as a potential Pipe Major and Gerry Radford as a possible Lead Drummer. (Bill agrees to participate if Gerry is on board.) All three musicians have played in a number of competition pipe bands over the years. They decide to place an ad in local papers announcing a meeting for musicians in the community who are interested.
September - Approximately 25 musicians attend the meeting and agree to form a competition pipe band. The name PENETANGORE is selected and a Board of Directors is elected as follows: Keith Bowker, President; Brian Fry, Secretary-Treasurer; Bill McLeod, Pipe Major; Gerry Radford, Lead Drummer; Bob Moore, Quartermaster. Sponsors are sought.
Winter - The new Penetangore Pipe Band practices every second Sunday in the United Church basement in Kincardine. Supporters including Hepcoe, Cartier Partners, Ontario Power Generation, Power Workers’ Union, Kincardine Lions Club, Kincardine Rotary Club and Kincardine Optimist Club provide funds for the band to purchase drums. Bob Moore launches a website, www.penetangore.netfirms.com.
2002
April - Interest in the Band's progress is expressed by Bruce Power in response to an earlier application from Penetagore for sponsorship. Rob Liddle from Bruce Power's Community Relations department meets with Bill McLeod and asks if the band would be interested in being outfitted with Bruce Power's corporate tartan if it could be arranged. Many of the band's members, including Brian Fry, Gerry Radford and Bob Moore are Bruce Power employees.
May - Penetangore’s fundraising concert, A Celtic Experience, is sold out at the Aztec Theatre in Kincardine on May 18. Pipers include: Katie Ashton, Marianne Bone, Todd Craig, Julie Fair, Jennifer Farrell, Tony Hymers, Hannah Liddle, Kyle MacDonald, Bill McLeod (Pipe Major/Producer), Beth Mimnaugh, Watson Morris, Jim Price, Leslie Ray, Nick Reid, Terry Reid, Bill Walker, Dave Wilson Jr., Glenn Walpole and Ian Wright. Drummers include: Kevin Ashton, Gerry Bailey, Colby Bellan, Lauren Bonnett (tenor), Whitney Bonnett, Keith Bowker, Brian Fry (bass), Ann Hoelscher (tenor), Gerry Radford (Lead Drummer). Other performers include: Tyler Fry, Larry Irwin, Catherine McLeod, The Jolly Beggars, Mike Walsh, and Jim-Chris-Joe-&-Steph. Ron Boucher serves as Master of Ceremonies.
June - Bruce Power receives a copy of the corporate tartan’s official accreditation certificate from the company's majority owner at the time, British Energy. (Note, Bruce Power's major investors now include Cameco, OMERS and TransCanada.) Penetangore Pipe Major Bill McLeod is asked to seek out and provide the best pricing information for tartan and quality-made kilts.
Summer - Penetangore competes in black trousers, white shirts and ties at Highland Games in Georgetown and Kincardine. The band places SIXTH in a field of 12 in Georgetown and FOURTH in a field of seven in Kincardine. During the summer months, the band performs at Massed Band events in Goderich and Kincardine as well as the Ministerial Faith Festival in Kincardine.
October - The Bruce Power sponsorship is announced at the band’s Annual General Meeting (AGM). Dave G.Wilson is acclaimed as President and the other Directors are re-elected. Bill Millman is appointed as Pipe Sergeant and Rob Liddle is appointed as Bruce Power Liaison as per the band's constitution regarding major sponsors. Resignations at the AGM include: Keith Bowker, Ann Hoelscher, Tony Hymers. New members in addition to Bill Millman include Andy Millman and Katie McCulloch, all from Owen Sound.
December - The tartan arrives from Scotland. Band members, as well as Bruce Power President and CEO Duncan Hawthorne, are measured by a kilt maker from Owen Sound, Ontario. A group of supporters led by Sandra Sutherland go to work knitting hose for the band. Sandra's hose makers include Maureen Adams, Joyce Bowker, Ettabelle Bradley, Betty Fry, Ingrid Hennick, Maureen Lawrence, Joyce MacDonald, Paddy McGouran and Mary Musselman.
2003
January - The first kilt to arrive from the kilt maker is presented to Bruce Power President and CEO Duncan Hawthorne during a Penetangore practice in the United Church basement.
March - Bruce Power’s sponsorship of Penetangore is featured on the back page of the publication Community Update, which is distributed in area newspapers from Goderich to Owen Sound.
May - Kilts are issued at the Bruce Power Visitors' Centre and the band poses for a band picture. Penetangore performs at the Ancient Highlander’s Evening to help raise funds for the Kincardine Scottish Festival. The band is later featured in local papers with Bruce Power President and CEO Duncan Hawthorne presenting a $25,000 sponsorship contribution to the Festival. On May 22, the band performs in a street parade at Ontario Place in Toronto.
June - Penetangore participates in Goderich’s annual Celtic Blue Massed Band event. Snare drummer Kevin Ashton, a member of both Penetangore and Celtic Blue Highlanders, leads the parade as Drum Major.
Summer - Penetangore competes at Highland Games in Georgetown, Fort Erie, Chatham, Kincardine and Fergus. The band earns THIRD prize at Fort Erie and is in the top half of its field in the other competitions.
August - A Penetangore mini-band performs at Bruce Power’s Community Celebration in Saugeen Shores on the beach band shell. The band performs at Kincardine’s Faith Festival.
September - The executive is re-elected at the AGM with the addition of Marg MacDonald as Secretary. A decision is made to launch a Grade 5 entry-level band with Bill Millman serving as Pipe Major. New members include: Pipers Cayly Bellan, Julie Fair, Mike Marriott, and Bill Walker; Drummers Annzley Clark (tenor), Harold Cook (bass), Zack Miller, Sean Millman, Bob Moore, and Alyssa Walpole. Keith Bowker also returns to play in the Grade 5 drum corps. Terry Mills of Sarnia joins the Grade 4 pipe corps and Dave Haynes of Kincardine joins the Grade 4 drum corps. Resignations acknowledged at the AGM include: Todd Craig and Ian Wright.
October - Penetangore tenor drummer Jennifer Moore and bass drummer Brian Fry are presented with Champion Supreme awards from the PPBSO. They travel to the awards ceremony in Windsor to receive medals.
Winter - Penetangore practices every second Sunday at the United Church in Kincardine. Bruce Power contributes additional funds to maintain the sponsorship and help with operating expenses.
2004
April - Penetangore performs on Bruce Power’s behalf at the Supercities Walk for Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in Kincardine. Tenor Drummer Lauren Bonnett is recruited by the 78th Fraser Highlanders.
May - Penetangore presents A Caledonia Connection, produced by Pipe Major Bill McLeod. The concert is held on the long weekend and runs two nights at the Aztec Theatre in Kincardine. It features Ron Boucher, Border Crossing, Larry Irwin, Catherine McLeod, The Strathspey and Reel Society, Gordon Yoon and individuals from the 78th Fraser Highlanders.
June - Penetangore performs at Goderich’s annual Celtic Blue Massed Band event.
Summer - After competing in Georgetown, Hamilton and Kincardine with Grade 4 and 5 groups, Pipe Major Bill McLeod resigns on July 7. The band carries on under the leadership of Pipe Sergeant Bill Millman and Lead Drummer Gerry Radford. Jake Watson, a resident of Kincardine and a member of the 78th Fraser Highlanders, is recruited to provide assistance. He is reluctant because of other commitments but agrees to help the band get through the season. Penetangore fulfills earlier commitments to compete at Chatham, Sarnia, and Fergus. The organization also fulfills commitments to perform at Gathering of the Bands in Kincardine and at the annual Faith Festival in Kincardine's Victoria Park.
September - Penetangore leads the Labour Day Parade in Saugeen Shores and then performs at the CAW Centre. The band opens Relay for Life ceremonies on behalf of Bruce Power in Owen Sound on a Friday evening and then travels the next day to perform at the Ripley Fall Fair.
October - Penetangore performs at the Bruce Power Visitors’ Centre during Kincardine’s first annual Doors Open event. The Band’s AGM is held and the Board of Directors is acclaimed with the addition of Jake Watson as Music Director. (Jake cautions the membership that his commitment to the 78th Fraser Highlanders is also a priority.) Resignations from the year acknowledged at the AGM include Bill McLeod, Mariann Bone, Sean Millman, Beth Mimnagh, Bill Walker and Glenn Walpole. New members include: George Alderman, Helen Elliott, Frazer Fleming, Laurie Fleming, Deb Gauthier, Reid Johnson, Josh Lauzon, Ray Lavallee, Andrew MacKinnon, Glynda Matheson, Basil McCarthy, Lisa Moore, and Greg Scott. The new Board signs a revised band constitution that incorporates major sponsor Bruce Power's corporate values. Harold Cook travels to Kingston to the PPBSO's annual awards ceremony to receive the Champion Supreme award for Amateur Bass Drumming. Tenor drummer Annzley Clark is acknowledged by the PPBSO for winning the SILVER in Novice Tenor Drumming. Greg Scott of Highland Gear donates new Penetangore embroidered bag pipe covers to the band.
December - The magazine, Piper and Drummer, predicts that Penetangore will have a Grade 2 corps by 2007.
2005
January - Penetangore receives a sponsorship contribution from Bruce Power to put towards uniforms and equipment. The company also contributes a bolt of tartan that had been held in reserve. Appreciating that there is only one hosemaker still producing knitted hose, the Board asks members to purchase store-bought hose. A greenish-blue colour is selected to give the band a new look. Sandra Sutherland's hard work and contribution, as the last remaining hosemaker, is acknowledged.
April - Both the Grade 4 and the Grade 5 bands win FIRST PLACE at the Hanover Indoor Mini-Band contest. Piper Terry Mills is acknowledged by the band for going the entire winter without missing a weekly practice. Terry lives in Sarnia and travels with his wife De De MIlls for two-hours-plus for band rehearsals.
May - A new bass drum arrives for the Grade 5 drum corps. Drum mentor Craig Colquhoun inaugerates the drum during practice at the Bruce Power Visitors' Centre. To raise funds for the band, Laurie Bellan and Sandra Sutherland launch a line of Penetangore clothing that includes t-shirts, hoodies, golf shirts, caps, hats and other items. Members and friends of the band donate in exhange for the items.
June - Nick Reid leads Penetangore in a performance at the annual Goderich Massed Band on June 5, hosted by the Celtic Blue. The band returns home from the Georgetown Highland Games on June 11 with FIRST prize in the Grade 4 category and THIRD in Grade 5.
July - Penetangore wins FIRST prize in the Grade 4 competition at the Kincardine Scottish Festival on July 2. The Grade 5 band, led by Pipe Sergeant Watson Morris and Lead Drummer Zack Miller, comes FOURTH. On July 9, Penetangore places THIRD in the Grade 4 competition in Chatham.
August - Penetangore's Grade 5 band wins FIRST prize at the Sarnia Highland Games and the Grade 4 band comes SECOND. Both drum corps are ranked FIRST. Penetangore participates in the Gathering of the Bands in Kincardine. Visiting members of Tralee Pipes and Drums of Ireland arrive at the Visitors' Centre to watch Penetangore at regular practice.
September - Penetangore leads the Labour Day Parade in Port Elgin and then performs at the CAW Family Education Centre. The band performs in Kincardine at the Ministerial Faith Festival and also in Owen Sound on Bruce Power's behalf at Relay for Life. Piper Cayly Bellan kicks on the Terry Fox Run in Wingham with "The Bull" radio celebrity Joey Martin who wears a Penetangore kilt for the event.
October - Penetangore performs at the Bruce Power Visitors' Centre for Doors Open Kincardine. After serving three terms, Dave G. Wilson decides not to run for President. Gary Lauzon is elected President at the Band's AGM while the rest of the Board is acclaimed or appointed including Marg MacDonald, Secretary; Brian Fry, Treasurer; Bob Moore; and Rob Liddle, Bruce Power Liaison. Music Director Jake Watson announces that the PPBSO will allow Penetangore to enter a Grade 3 band in 2006 competitions. Pipe Majors are appointed as follows: Nick Reid, Grade 3; Watson Morris, Grade 4; Terry Mills, Grade 5. Resignations acknowledged at the AGM include Keith Bowker, David Haynes, Andrew MacKinnon, Jennifer Moore and Terry Reid. Terry Reid returns after a one-year hiatus to join the Grade 5 pipe corps. New members include Lauri Dalton, Bob Dixon, Graeme Ewen, Mary Farrell, James Hawkins, Ron Irving, Scott Macaulay, Val McComb, Graham McMaster, Jeff Swance, Kolton Stewart, Lori Stewart, Ashleigh Weeden, Dave J. Wilson and Sharon Wilson.
November - The roster now includes Grade 5, 4 and 3 bands with a total of 67 musicians. The members are issued new music and begin two-hour band practices at the Bruce Power Visitors' Centre every Sunday.
December - Penetangore drummers are included in a workshop at the Power Workers' Union Bruce Training Centre arranged by Craig Colquhoun that features Jim Kilpatrick MBE, John Fisher and Tyler Fry. Band associate Rob Miller produces a "Home Video" of Penetangore performances in 2005 for members and friends.
2006
January - Bruce Power contributes additional funds for more uniforms and equipment. With the Visitors' Centre undergoing renovations, the band practices at the Kincardine Legion and the Underwood Community Centre. The drum corps experiences an influx of new members including Emily Atkinson, Melissa Atkinson, Luke Bedard, Justin Biesinger, Bob Campbell, Jarrett Elliott, Jim McArthur, Brittany Priebe and Kathy Skinn.
February - Brian Fry attends the MS Society’s recognition dinner on behalf of Penetangore and receives an Award of Excellence for the band's support of the annual Supercities Walk for MS. Piper Jeff Swance shaves his head during a fundraiser in support of Camp Ooch which caters to children with cancer. Band members personally kick in several hundred dollars in support and Jeff is featured in the Kincardine News and in the Kincardine Independent.
March - The Board votes to change the look of the uniform by asking members to purchase long-sleeved, dark-blue shirts, and short-sleeved, light-blue shirts. Band associates Laurie Bellan and Sandra Sutherland coordinate the effort. Janice Matchett of Matchett Financial Services (Dundee) makes a sponsorship contribution to the band. Penetangore piper Kyle MacDonald pipes Olympic hockey star Cherie Piper from Team Canada onto the ice in Ripley arena.
April - Penetangore marches as a single unit on Bruce Power's behalf in the Supercities Walk for MS in Kincardine. A week later The Grade 5 band under the direction of Pipe Major Terry Mills and Lead Drummer Alyssa Walpole comes FOURTH in the Hanover Indoor Mini-band Contest. On the same day, Pipe Major Watson Morris leads a second Penetangore Band in a Lion's Club Parade in Kincardine.
June - Penetangore performs under the direction of Pipe Major Nick Reid as a full-band at the Massed Band event in Goderich. The Grade 5 band competes at Georgetown and comes THIRD.
July - Ken Fair of the Kincardine Lions Club presents Penetangore with a sponsorship cheque for $250. The Grade 5 band comes FIRST at the Kincardine Highland Games and the Grade 3 Band comes THIRD. A week later, the Grade 3 band wins THIRD at the Chatham Highland Games. For the first time ever, all three bands compete at the same games in Cambridge. Grade 3 comes FIRST, Grade 4 SEVENTH and Grade 5 FIFTH.
August - Penetangore performs on Bruce Power's behalf at Kincardine's first Relay for Life event to raise money for the fight against cancer. Penetangore's Grade 5 band competes at the Fergus Highland Games and comes FIFTH. Penetangore performs as a single band at Gathering of the Bands in Kincardine.
September - Penetangore performs with Sheila Milne's School of Dance at The Celtic Festival in Owen Sound. The PPBSO announces that Brian Fry has won 2006 Champion Supreme for Professional Solo Bass. The AGM is announced for Oct. 29.
October - Rob Miller, father of snare drummer Zack Miller, is acclaimed President of the Penetangore Pipe Band when Gary Lauzon decides not to run for re-election. Music Director Jake Watson appoints Ashleigh Weeden, Nick Reid and Terry Mills to act as Pipe Majors for the Grade 3, 4 and 5 bands respectively. Other acclamations include Brian Fry, Treasurer; Marg MacDonald, Secretary; Bob Moore, Quartermaster; and Gerry Radford, Lead Drummer. Rob Liddle stays on as Bruce Power Liaison. Resignations acknowledged from the previous year include: Luke Bedard, Cayly Bellan, Colby Bellan, Justin Biesinger, Bob Campbell, Annzley Clark, Helen Elliott, Graeme Ewen, Jennifer Farrell, Mary Farrell, Josh Lauzon, Mike Marriott, Jim McArthur, Katie McCulloch, Jennifer Moore, Watson Morris, Leslie Ray, Greg Scott, Lori Stewart and Kolton Stewart. New members include William Belet, Robert Calquhoun, Daniel Carr, Kevin Driscoll, Scott Henderson, Steve LaRue, Maria Lozada and Pat Reid. Julie Fair takes a leave of absence.
November -Treasurer Brian Fry and Bruce Power liaison Rob Lidde finalize government requirements to incorporate the Penetangore Pipe Band as a not-for-profit corporation.
2007
January - Penetangore sends a mini-band to perform at Bruce Power's Robbie Burns dinner in Toronto. The mini-band includes Jake Watson, Gerry Radford, Ashleigh Weeden, Zack Miller, Andy Millman, Kyle MacDonald, Lisa Moore and Brian Fry.
April - Penetangore marches as a single unit on Bruce Power's behalf in the Supercities Walk for MS in Kincardine. A week later the three bands compete at the indoor games in Hanover. Grade 3 wins FIRST.
Summer - The band performs at games in Georgetown and Kincardine and continues on to finish off the season with a FOURTH in Chatham and a FIRST in Fergus. Quartermaster Bob Moore resigns and Lisa Moore assumes the role of Quartermaster. Penetangore members provide assistance to the Kincardine Lions in the hospitality booth during a Bulldog Hockey Team ball tournament.
September - Penetangore performs at Relay for Life in Kincardine on behalf of Bruce Power, the Celtic Festival in Owen Sound and the Ripley Fall Fair. (A photo of the band is featured on the front page of the Owen Sound Sun Times.) Snare drummer Zack Miller is recruited by the Scottish Lion 78th Fraser Highlanders.
October - That AGM is held at the Bruce Power Visitors' Centre. The new Board of Directors includes: Rob Liddle, President; Brian Fry, Treasurer; Kathy Skinn, Secretary; Lisa Moore, Quartermaster; Jake Watson, Music Director; Gerry Radford, Lead Drummer; Ashleigh Weeden, Grade 3 Pipe Major; Bill Millman, Grade 3 Pipe Sergeant; Nick Reid, Grade 4 Pipe Major; Terry Mills, Grade 5 Pipe Major. Other resignations include Gerry Bailey, Harold Cook, Mike Dalton, Bob Dixon, Kevin Driscoll, Jarrett Elliott, Daniel Fenton, Scott Macaulay, Graham MacMaster, Basil McArthy, Val McComb, Jim Price, Brittany Priebe, Pat Reid, Terry Reid, Joel Riggin, Alyssa Walpole, Dave G. Wilson, Dave J. Wilson and Sharon Wilson. New members include: Jeff Beatty, David Belet, Elika Belet, Tom Christensen, Michael Fitak, De De Mills, Dave Whittall and Deb Whittall. Grade 4 Pipe Major Nick Reid resigns two weeks after the AGM explaining that time is an issue because of training commitments involving his acceptance in Bruce Power's Authorized Nuclear Operator program.
November - Lisa Moore and Zack Miller travel to Milton to receive Champion Supreme awards from the PPBSO. Lisa wins for Amateur Flourishing Tenor and Zack's prize is for Grade 2 snare drumming. Four pipers travel from Chicago, Illinois to join Penetangore's Grade 4 band.
2008
January - Craig Colquhoun invites Lead Drummer Gerry Radford and snare drummer Whitney Bonnett to join a new pipe band, Spirit of Scotland, he is helping to form to compete as a Grade 1 band at the 2008 Worlds in Scotland. Gerry declines because of commitments at work and Penetangore, but Whitney is able to accept the opportunity. Penetangore sends a mini-band to perform at Bruce Power's Robbie Burns dinner in Toronto. The mini-band includes Jake Watson, Gerry Radford, Ashleigh Weeden, Zack Miller, Andy Millman, Bill Millman, Kyle MacDonald, Lisa Moore and Brian Fry.
February - Former Quartermaster Bob Moore provides the band with website domains that reserve the name Penetangore. President Rob Liddle agrees to develop the website as a communications tool for the band.
March - The Board of Directors meets and decides to withdraw the Grade 3 band from competition for at least a year to reinforce the Grade 4 and 5 bands. Ashleigh Weeden resigns after a decision to play with the Grade 1 Niagara Police Pipe Band until August when she plans to travel to British Columbia where she has been accepted into the University of Victoria. Jake Watson advises that he has withdrawn from the Scottish Lion 78th Fraser Highlanders because of work commitments. A new website, www.penetangore.com is launched. A photo of the band is featured in the Owen Sound Sun Times "Showtime" feature in reference to the Celtic Festival.
April - Penetangore performs at the Supercities Walk for MS in Kincardine, Ontario. Barb Goetz, Community Relations Manager at Bruce Power, presents the band with a sponsorship cheque for the band to purchase additional equipment and uniform items. The Grade 5 group competes in Hanover under the direction of Pipe Major Terry Mills and wins second prize. (It is the first time in competition for pipers Dale Beckner, David Whittall and tenor drummer Elika Belet. It is the first time in seven years for Lead Drummer Deb Whittall.
May - The Kincardine Lions Club, represented by Ken Fair, contributes $500 to the band to be put towards uniforms for assistance provided in 2007 at a Kincardine Bulldog's fundraising ball tournament. Penetangore’s Grade 4 and 5 groups compete at the Alma Scottish Festival in Michigan. The Grade 4 group places SECOND on May 24 and THIRD on May 25; the Grade 5 group places THIRD on May 24. In Alma solo Grade 4 piping competition, William Belet places THIRD and Frazer Fleming places SIXTH in a field of 15 pipers.
June - Penetangore competes at the Georgetown Highland Games on June 14 with Grade 4 and Grade 5 groups. The Grade 4 band wins FIRST prize and best drum corp . At the same event in solo competition, William Belet places FIRST in Grade 4 piping; Lisa Moore places FIRST in novice bass drumming, former member Glenn Walpole wins best overall amateur piper and former member Zack Miller wins best overall amateur drummer. (Glenn is a member of the Grade 1 Peel Regional Police Band and Zack is a member of the Grade 1 Scottish Lion 78th Fraser Highlanders.) Immediately following Georgetown, piper Hannah Liddle travels to Port Elgin to pipe down the sun for a Study Group from the 2008 Governor General’s Conference. On June 21, Penetangore’s Grade 4 group wins first prize and best bass section at the Chicago Highland Games; that evening piper Steve LaRue hosts the band at his home in Yorkville, Illinois. The Power Workers’ Union gives Brian Fry a sponsorship cheque for $1,500 to present to the band on June 26.
July - On July 5, Penetangore’s Grade 4 group wins FIRST prize at the Kincardine Scottish Festival and the Grade 5 group picks up THIRD. The awards are announced by former Pipe Major Bill McLeod, a Vice President with the PPBSO. (On behalf of Bruce Power, Penetangore President Rob Liddle presents the Grade 1 first-place trophy to Bill Livingston of the Scottish Lion 78th Fraser Highlanders.) On July 12, Penetangore’s Grade 4 group comes THIRD in Chatham.
August - On Aug. 2, Penetangore’s Grade 4 group competes at the Glengarry Highland Games in Maxville after a massive thunderstorm and come FIRST to win the North Amercian Championship. In solo competition Frazer Fleming comes FOURTH in Grade 4 March B Piping. He then goes on to win THIRD in Grade 4 March A Piping and FIFTH in Piobaireachd Piping at the Montreal Highland Games on Aug. 3. On Aug. 9, the Grade 4 competition at the Fergus Scottish Festival is cancelled because of heavy rain. William Belet, competing solo, earns a THIRD in Grade 4 March Piping. Grade 5 competes in Fergus on Aug. 10 but does not place in spite of an excellent performance. On Aug. 15, Jake Watson and Gerry Radford lead a Penetangore mini-band in Kincardine’s Relay for Life event to raise money for the fight against cancer. On Aug. 23, Penetangore performs in Victoria Park at the Kincardine Scottish Pipe Band’s annual Gathering of the Bands event. The Board of Directors meets and passes motions to purchase additional chanters and new sporrans.
September - Penetangore performs at the Celtic Festival in Owen Sound on Sept. 13. The band’s Annual General Meeting is held on Sept. 28 and the 2007-2008 Board of Directors is acclaimed. It includes elected members Jake Watson, Music Director; Gerry Radford, Lead Drummer; Rob Liddle, President; Kathy Skinn, Secretary; Brian Fry, Treasurer; Lisa Moore, Quartermaster; Bill Millman and Terry Mills are re-appointed as members of the Board. Resignations at include: Cayly Bellan, Colby Bellan, Elleke Belet, David Belet, William Belet, Jeff Beatty, Tom Christensen, Scott Hendersen, Ray Lavalee, Maria Lozada, and Dave Wilson. Bass Drummer Brian Fry advises that he will be taking a year off from competition. New members include: Mark Dew, Kathleen Dicker, Andrea Ewing-Ostergard, Hal Graham, Bill Penrose and Terry Pinkley. Julie Fair and Dave G. Wilson return to the Grade 5 pipe corps after some time away. Jake Watson and Deb Gauthier take leave of absences to accept work assignments in New Brunswick.
November - Penetangore’s Grade 4 group is awarded Champion Supreme medals from the Pipers and Pipe Band Society of Ontario at the Highland Ball in Hamilton, Ontario. Lisa Moore and Fraser Fleming accept on the band’s behalf. A box of new chanters, ordered by Music Director Jake Watson, arrives at Treasurer Brian Fry’s house for the Grade 5 group. Piper Michael Fitak launches a new Tunes page on the Internet, which is linked to the website www.penetangore.com to allow the band’s musicians to access audio files and sheet music.
December - Piper Hannah Liddle accepts a sponsorship cheque from the Society of Energy Professionals to be put towards band uniforms and equipment.
2009
January - A mini-band travels to Hart House in Toronto to perform at Bruce Power’s Robbie Burns Celebration. Musicians Robert Colquhoun, Reid Johnson, Bill Millman, Lisa Moore, Terry Pinkley, Gerry Radford and Jeff Swance put on an impressive performance. The seven musicians are featured with Bruce Power President and CEO Duncan Hawthorne on the front page of the company's weekly POINT FORM publication.
March - Senior snare drummer George Alderman announces that he is taking some time off from competition for health reasons.
April - Pipe Major Terry Mills leads a Grade 5 mini-band into competition at the Toronto Indoor Games on April 4. Plagued by problems that include a broken snare drum and bass drone reed, the group still manages a FOURTH place finish. It is the first time in competition for Tenor Drummer Kathleen Dicker and the first time with Penetangore for Bass Drummer Bill Penrose. On April 19, a Penetangore big band (both Grade 3 and 5) leads the Supercities Walk for MS in Kincardine, Ontario. Musicians Andrea Ewing-Ostergard, Michael Fitak and Steve LaRue make the trek from Chicago for the event and band rehearsal afterwards. Grade 5 and 3 Penetangore mini-bands compete at the Hanover Indoor Games on April 25; the Grade 5 band doesn't place; Grade 3 comes SECOND after Hamilton Police Pipe Band. Band Secretary Kathy Skinn submits her resignation on April 30; former Band Secretary Marg MacDonald volunteers to provide assistance during transition.
May - Bass Drummer Robert Colquhoun helps out in his kilt at the Scottish Exhibit at Kincardine's Multicultural Festival on May 5. A decision is made to withdraw the Grade 3 band’s entry from Georgetown and Kincardine Highland Games to give the group more time to prepare for competition when Pipe Major Jake Watson returns from a work assignment in New Brunswick. The Grade 5 band competes at the Alma Highland Festival in Michigan on May 23 and 24 and places SECOND and FOURTH, respectively. The new sporrans arrive and an arrangement is made to sell 25 of the old sporrans to the Burlington Fire Fighters Pipe Band that Penetangore Piper Jeff Swance leads.
June - Penetangore’s Grade 5 group puts forth a good effort at the Georgetown Highland Games under the direction of Pipe Major Terry Mills and Lead Drummer Deb Whittall.
July - Penetangore’s Grade 5 group competes at games in Kincardine and Cambridge. Jake Watson and Deb Gauthier return from work assignments in New Brunswick. After an assessment of the Grade 3 group by Jake, a decision is made to withdraw from remaining 2009 PPBSO competitions. Dispensation is requested by Secretary Marg MacDonald and is received from the PPBSO to allow some of the players from the in-active Grade 3 group to compete with Penetangore’s Grade 5 group; Bill Millman, Andy Millman, Kyle MacDonald and Jeff Swance make the move.
August - Penetagore’s Grade 5 group competes at the Glengarry Highland Games in Maxville and the Fergus Scottish Festival. The band performs at the Kincardine Scottish’s annual Gathering of the Bands event. The Board of Directors meet and Jake Watson outlines his plan for a new Penetangore Grade 2 group in association with the Grade 1 Peel Regional Police Pipe Band. Jake also advises that he will be playing with Peel to support Pipe Major John Cairns.
September - Penetangore’s Annual General Meeting is held on Sept. 27 and the following people are acclaimed: Rob Liddle, President; Marg MacDonald, Secretary; Brian Fry, Treasurer; Lisa Moore, Quartermaster; Gerry Radford, Lead Drummer; Jake Watson, Music Director. In Jake's absence, Craig Colquhoun gives a progress report on the proposed Grade 2 group and potential leaders. Other appointments are to be made by Jake Watson when band leaders are assigned. Resignations acknowledged at the AGM included Julie Fair, Bill Penrose, Dave G. Wilson and Anders Ivo. A decision is confirmed to not field a Grade 5 group in the 2009-2010.
October - Rehearsals resume on a Sunday-Sunday-Saturday-off cycle with the new Grade 4 group as Craig Colquhoun and Jake Watson sort out details for a Grade 2 band. Piper Hal Graham resigns after playing the 2008-2009 season with Penetangore's Grade 5 group. Robert Hay from Owen Sound joins the Grade 4 pipe corps. PIper Andy Millman is recruited by the Peel Regional Police Pipe Band and joins a pipe corps that also includes former Penetangore player Glenn Walpole.
December - The first rehearsal is held for the new Penetagore Grade 2 group in Campbellville, Ontario, because of the number of new players from that region. Jake Watson announces that Tom Anderson is the Pipe Major and Graham Kirkwood is Lead Drummer. Jeff Swance makes the necessary arrangements for the group to use a hall at the Kilbride United Church and the Burlington Legion as practice facilities. Other Penetangore players making the trek to rehearse with Grade 2 include Robert Colquhoun, Kyle MacDonald, Lisa Moore and Terry Pinkney.
2010
January - A Penetangore mini-band performs at Bruce Power's Robbie Burns Evening in Toronto. Brian Fry, Deb Gauthier, Andy Millman, Bill Millman, Lisa Moore, Terry Pinkney, Gerry Radford and Jake Watson represent the band. The Penetangore Board of Directors approves the purchase of new drums and specified equipment to be used initially by the Grade 2 band.
February - Tom Anderson resigns as Grade 2 Pipe Major but agrees to continue to support the new band. Doug Wickham is appointed Pipe Major by Jake Watson. Quartermaster Lisa Moore trucks the band's uniform inventory to Kilbride, Ontario to outfit the new Grade 2 organization. Piper Reid Johnson advises Grade 4 Pipe Major Bill Millman that he is taking a year off from the band. Marshall Chamberlain from Sarnia, Ontario, is accepted into the Grade 4 band on recommendation from Terry Mills. President Rob Liddle attends a Raptor's basketball game at the Air Canada Centre in Toronto with other community volunteers on invitation from Bruce Power in recognition for his work with the Penetangore Pipe Band. The Board of Directors meets and receives an update from Jake Watson on the Grade 2 band.
April - After many revisions, the Grade 2 roster is confirmed with the following players: Pipe Major Doug Wickham, Lead Drummer Graham Kirkwood; Pipers Dave Goodall, Andrew Green, Callum Harper, Kaitlin Kimove, Trish Kirkwood, Kyle MacDonald, Chuck Matheson, Cameron Perry, Terry Pinkney, Deb Siebert, Patrick Sweeny; Drummers Cheryle DaPonte, Paula Harper, Fiona Weir, Robert Colquhoun, Chris Bell, Rob Calder and Jaclyn Gomme. Penetangore performs at the Supercities Walk for MS on behalf of Bruce Power.
May - Snare Drummers Melissa Atkinson and James Hawkins advise Lead Drummer Gerry Radford that they'll be withdrawing from competition for the year. Penetangore Penetangore's Grade 4 band travels to the Alma Scottish Festival and Highland Games in Michigan and wins THIRD prize at the Saturday event and THIRD prize at the Sunday event. Rob Hay, Scott McGregor,De De Mills, Dave Whittall and Deb Whittall compete with the Grade 4 group for the first time. Senior Snare Drummer George Alderman is back in the line up for the first time in competition since 2008 and veterans Steve LaRue and Michael Fitak make the trek from Chicago to compete with the band. Michael also competes as instructor with the Grade 5 Tunes of Glory Pipe Band, which wins FIRST place on both days. At the same event in solo competition, Kaitin Kimove from the Grade 2 group wins Best Amateur Piobaireachd. Bass Drummer Brian Fry travels to Holland to perform with the Ontario Fire Fighters Pipe Band in celebrations marking the 65th Anniversary of the Liberation of Holand. Former Penetangore piper Pat Reid, now with the 400th Squadron of Orillia, is also in the line up.
June - Penetangore's Grade 4 band wins THIRD prize at the Georgetown Highland Games while the Grade 2 band debuts at the same event, coming SECOND against Fredericton Society of Saint Andrew Pipe Band. In solo competition, Marshall Chamberlain competes for the first time in Grade 5 and comes FIRST. Nigel Smedmore joins the Grade 4 group. A sponsorship application is approved by Bruce Power to provide additional funding for more tartan and the manufacture of kilts.
July - Penetangore's Grade 2 Pipe Major Doug Wickham and Grade 1 Peel Regional Police Pipe Band Pipe Major John Cairns finalize the details of an agreement initiated by Jake Watson to formalize a unique player-exchange development program between the two bands. Penetangore's Grade 4 band comes FOURTH in a line-up of ten bands at the Kincardine Scottish Festival, while Grade 2 places THIRD after City of Chicago Pipe Band and Burnett's & Struth Pipe Band (Barry, Ontario). Penetangore’s Chris Bell is awarded Professional Drummer of the Day at the event. Other Penetangore soloists who place included Marshall Chamberlain, Kaitlin Kimove, Callum Harper,and Cameron Harper. Both the Grade 2 and 4 bands are outfitted with new vests at the event by Quartermaster Lisa Moore. Penetangore's Grade 2 band comes THIRD at the Oshawa Highland Games after Glengarry Pipe Band and Burnett's & Struth. Penetangore's Grade 4 group wins SECOND prize at the Cambridge Highland Games. The Grade 2 group, as the only Grade 2 group at the event, serves as Duty Band and is awarded FIRST prize. Penetangore's Grade 4 band places FOURTH at the Glengarry Highland Games (Maxville) and North American Championship. The Grade 2 band does well but does not place in a contest won by City of Chicago Pipe Band. In solo competitions, Callum Harper makes a big splash in Grade 2 with a FIRST in S/R A, a FIRST in Jig A, a SECOND in March A, and a FIRST in Intermediate Amateur Piobaireachd A. Kaitlin Kimove wins FOURTH in Jig B and 6th in S/R B. In Grade 5, Marshall Chamberlain earns a SECOND. In drumming, Fiona Weir wins FOURTH in the Amateur Flourishing Tenor contest and FIFTH in the Amateur Tenor contest, while Lisa Moore takes the title for Amateur Bass.
August - With Grade 4 Pipe Major Bill Millman accompanying son Andy Millman and the Peel Regional Police Pipe Band at the World Championship in Scotland, Jeff Swance leads the Grade 4 band with Lead Drummer Gerry Radford in competition at the Fergus Highland Games. The band wins A FOURTH prize at the event. In solo competition on the same day, Penetangore players do well with Marshall Chamberlain earned a FIRST in Grade 5 March; Kaitlin Kimove, FIRST in Grade 2 S/R; Callum Harper, SECOND in Grade 2 S/R and a FOURTH in March; Lisa Moore, FIRST in Amateur Bass Drumming. Penetangore's Board of Directors holds the first of two final meetings scheduled before the upcoming Annual General Meeting to review the band's business and revisions that have been suggested for the band's Constitution. Music Director Jake Watson leads a Penetangore band with players from both the Grade 2 and Grade 4 groups during a performance in Victoria Park in Kincardine at the annual Gathering of the Bands event organized by the Kincardine Scottish Pipe Band. Grade 2 Pipe Major Doug Wickham recruits Ken Allan to help with the administration of the Grade 2 group and provide support to Band Secretary Marg MacDonald.
September - A new Board of Directors is acclaimed at the band's Annual General Meeting at the Bruce Power Visitors' Centre. It includes: Ashleigh Weeden, President; Katie Ashton, Treasurer; Marg MacDonald, Secretary; Lisa Moore, Quartermaster; Jake Watson, Music Director. Appointments to the Board include: Bill Millman, Grade 4 Pipe Major; Gerry Radford, Grade 4 Lead Drummer; Doug Wickham, Grade 2 Pipe Major; Harvey Dawson, Grade 2 Lead Drummer. Retiring President Rob Liddle agrees to remain on the Board as Bruce Power Liaison to assist with transition and communications. Retiring Treasurer Brian Fry is acknowledged for his nine years of service on the Board. Laurie Flemming and Ken Allan accept newly created positions as Band Administrators for the Grade 4 and 2 groups respectively to provide support to the Pipe Majors and Band Secretary. Resignations are received from long-time Sarnia travellers Terry and De De Mills and Dave and Deb Whithall. Their years of service and dedication are acknowledged.
October - Weekly rehearsals resume with the Grade 2 band practicing at the Burlington Legion and the Grade 4 band practicing at the Bruce Power Visitors' Centre. Led by Pipe Major Doug Wickham, members from both Pentangore bands performs as a single unit at the Hamilton Convention Centre for the 3rd annual Scotchtoberfest event featuring Enter the Haggis, Liam McGlashon and others.
December - Rosters are established for the 2011 contest season.
2011
January - The Board of Directors holds its first meeting of the year and decides to move forward with a new style and colour of shirts and uniform ties. New artwork and a logo is also to be considered with submissions to be requested from graphic designers.
February - A Penetangore mini-band performs at Bruce Power's annual Robbie Burns Evening in Toronto on Feb. 3 for corporate executives and guests from Ontario's energy sector. The event, hosted by Bruce Power President and CEO Duncan Hawthorne, is held at the Grand Banking Hall on King Street. Other performing artists included Colin Mochrie, Debra McGrath, Karen McCulloch and Jan Menkal. Mini-band members include Jake Watson, Gerry Radford, Andy Millman, Deb Gauthier, Rob Hay, Whitney Bonnett, Lisa Moore and Brian Fry. Penetangore mentor Craig (Hoss) Calquhoun and snare drummer Whitney Bonnett appear in the film On the Day: the Story of the Spirit of Scotland Pipeband in Cineplex theatres on Feb. 9 and 13. The two musicians performed with Spirit of Scotland when some of the world's top musicians got together to form a band specifically to compete in the 2009 World Pipe Band Championship. The documentary was put together by acclaimed Producer/Director John McDonald.
March - Bill Millman steps down as Pipe Major of the Grade 4 Penetangore Pipe Band to take more time to recover from a shoulder injury sustained the previous fall. Ashleigh Weeden, who also serves as the band’s President, assumes the role and to work with Bill, Music Director Jake Watson and Lead Drummer Gerry Radford to prepare for the contest season.
April - Penetangore's Grade 2 and 4 bands join forces on April 17 under Pipe Major Doug Wickham at the Davidson Centre in Kincardine, Ontario to kick off the 11th annual Supercities Walk for MS. The weather is cold with rain and snow but approximately 300 supporters participate in the event. More than $40,000 is raised to find a cure for muscular distrophy and help those afflicted with the disease.
May - Marshall Chamberlain and Alex Adams enjoy some success on May 7 at the PPBSO Western Branch Kiwanis Competition. Marshall wins FIRST place in Grade 4 March, while Alex earns a FOURTH in Senior Amateur Piobaireachd and 6th in Grade 1 March and 6th in Grade 1 Strathspey & Reel.
June - A Penetangore mini-band performs for an appreciative audience on June 4 at Kelso Beach near Owen Sound, Ontario in support of a fundraiser for the Ann Milne Dance School. June 11, 2011 - Penetangore's Grade 4 band places THIRD in the Georgetown Highland Games on June 11 while the organization's Grade 2 group comes FOURTH in a lineup of five pipe bands. The Grade 4 competion Is won by Niagara Regional Police Pipe Band, with Arnprior MacNab Pipe Band coming second. The Grade 2 contest Is won by Glengarry Pipe Band from Eastern Ontario. Penetangore solo players fair well with Jeremy Evans coming FIRST in Professional Flurishing Tenor, Fional Weir coming FIRST in Amateur Flourishing Tenor and Marshall Chamberlain coming THIRD in Grade 4 March A piping. On June 18, Penetangore's Grade 4 band places SECOND overall in a field of 14 pipe bands and FIRST in drumming at the Chicago Highland Games. The band is led by Pipe Sergeant Jeff Swance and Lead Drummer Gerry Radford.
July - Penetangore's Grade 4 band earns SECOND place in a field of nine on July 2 at the Kincardine Scottish Festival. The Niagara Regional Police Pipe Band win the event. In Grade 2 competition, Penetangore's Grade 2 band comes SECOND, following the Rob Roy Pipe Band from Kingston, Ontario. In solo competition, Penetangore's Marshall Chamberlain comes FIRST in Grade 4 March piping, while Alex Adams earns a FIFTH in Senior Amateur Piobaireachd A . Anders Ivo wins the Amateur Flourishing Tenor contest. On July 16, Penetangore's two bands earn THIRD place at the Cambridge Highland Games, Grade 2 in a field of four pipe bands, and Grade 4 in a field of seven. In solo competition, Penetangore's Jeremy Evans places FIRST in Professional Flourishing Tenor while Anders Ivo comes FIRST in Amateur Flourishing Tenor. Penetangore's Grade 4 band comes FOURTH at the North American Championship on July 31 at the Glengarry Highland Games in Maxville, Ontario.
August - Pentangore's Grade 2 band comes FIRST at the Fergus Highland Games on August 14, while Grade 4 finishes FOURTH. A Fairwell Ceildh is held for Grade 2 Pipe Major Doug Wickham on August 20 at the Scottish Rite Hamilton Masonic Centre.Doug is moving to Germany with his family. Music Director Jake Watson leads members from both Penetangore Bands during a performance on August 27 at Gathering of the Bands in Kincardine. A new Penetangore website is launched on August 28. It's announced that Penetangore's AGM will be held from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Sept. 25 at the Bruce Power Visitors' Centre.
September - Penetangore's Grade 2 and Grade 4 bands both place second in their categories for the 2011 competition season as ranked by the Pipers and Pipe Band Society of Ontario (PPBSO). The AGM is held at the Bruce Power Visitors' Centre and Ashleigh Weeden announces that she will not be standing for re-election as President because of other commitments. The following Board members are acclaimed: Jake Watson, Music Director; Gerry Radford, Grade 4 Lead Drummer; Harv Dawson, Grade 2 Lead Drummer; Marg MacDonald, Secretary; Katie Ashton, Treasurer; Lisa Moore, Quartermaster; Rob Liddle, Communications Director. Jeff Swance is appointed as Pipe Major of the Grade 4 band, while Jake Watson takes on the role of interim Pipe Major for the Grade 2 band. The President's position remains vacant when nominations are declined.
November - Members of the both the Grade 2 and 4 bands perform at a Remembrance Day ceremony on behalf of the Bronte Royal Canadian Legion in Oakville, Ontario on Nov. 6. Grade 4 bass drummer and band founder Brian Fry announces that he is retiring to spend the winter months in Florida. "Brow" will maintain his association with the band but can't commit to performances when he is not able to be at winter rehearsals. Piper Deb Gauthier offers up some storage space for the band's stores to provide some relief for Quartermaster Lisa Moore. Jeff Boyle, a bass drummer in the Grade 2 band, advises the Penetangore Board of Directors that he is willing to take on the role of President. Jeff's offer is unanimously accepted by Board members on Nov. 24.
2012
January - Rob Hay is appointed Pipe Sergeant of the Grade 4 band. Jamie Connolly joins the organization as Pipe Major of the Grade 2 band.
July - Kincardine Ontario resident Brian Fry is frustrated by the number of musicians along the Lake Huron shoreline who have to travel to compete in pipe bands. He believes there are enough local musicians to start a competition pipe band in the Grey-Bruce-Huron area of Ontario, Canada. Local musicians have traditionally travelled from the region to larger centres to advance their skills in competition.
August - Brian recruits Bill McLeod as a potential Pipe Major and Gerry Radford as a possible Lead Drummer. (Bill agrees to participate if Gerry is on board.) All three musicians have played in a number of competition pipe bands over the years. They decide to place an ad in local papers announcing a meeting for musicians in the community who are interested.
September - Approximately 25 musicians attend the meeting and agree to form a competition pipe band. The name PENETANGORE is selected and a Board of Directors is elected as follows: Keith Bowker, President; Brian Fry, Secretary-Treasurer; Bill McLeod, Pipe Major; Gerry Radford, Lead Drummer; Bob Moore, Quartermaster. Sponsors are sought.
Winter - The new Penetangore Pipe Band practices every second Sunday in the United Church basement in Kincardine. Supporters including Hepcoe, Cartier Partners, Ontario Power Generation, Power Workers’ Union, Kincardine Lions Club, Kincardine Rotary Club and Kincardine Optimist Club provide funds for the band to purchase drums. Bob Moore launches a website, www.penetangore.netfirms.com.
2002
April - Interest in the Band's progress is expressed by Bruce Power in response to an earlier application from Penetagore for sponsorship. Rob Liddle from Bruce Power's Community Relations department meets with Bill McLeod and asks if the band would be interested in being outfitted with Bruce Power's corporate tartan if it could be arranged. Many of the band's members, including Brian Fry, Gerry Radford and Bob Moore are Bruce Power employees.
May - Penetangore’s fundraising concert, A Celtic Experience, is sold out at the Aztec Theatre in Kincardine on May 18. Pipers include: Katie Ashton, Marianne Bone, Todd Craig, Julie Fair, Jennifer Farrell, Tony Hymers, Hannah Liddle, Kyle MacDonald, Bill McLeod (Pipe Major/Producer), Beth Mimnaugh, Watson Morris, Jim Price, Leslie Ray, Nick Reid, Terry Reid, Bill Walker, Dave Wilson Jr., Glenn Walpole and Ian Wright. Drummers include: Kevin Ashton, Gerry Bailey, Colby Bellan, Lauren Bonnett (tenor), Whitney Bonnett, Keith Bowker, Brian Fry (bass), Ann Hoelscher (tenor), Gerry Radford (Lead Drummer). Other performers include: Tyler Fry, Larry Irwin, Catherine McLeod, The Jolly Beggars, Mike Walsh, and Jim-Chris-Joe-&-Steph. Ron Boucher serves as Master of Ceremonies.
June - Bruce Power receives a copy of the corporate tartan’s official accreditation certificate from the company's majority owner at the time, British Energy. (Note, Bruce Power's major investors now include Cameco, OMERS and TransCanada.) Penetangore Pipe Major Bill McLeod is asked to seek out and provide the best pricing information for tartan and quality-made kilts.
Summer - Penetangore competes in black trousers, white shirts and ties at Highland Games in Georgetown and Kincardine. The band places SIXTH in a field of 12 in Georgetown and FOURTH in a field of seven in Kincardine. During the summer months, the band performs at Massed Band events in Goderich and Kincardine as well as the Ministerial Faith Festival in Kincardine.
October - The Bruce Power sponsorship is announced at the band’s Annual General Meeting (AGM). Dave G.Wilson is acclaimed as President and the other Directors are re-elected. Bill Millman is appointed as Pipe Sergeant and Rob Liddle is appointed as Bruce Power Liaison as per the band's constitution regarding major sponsors. Resignations at the AGM include: Keith Bowker, Ann Hoelscher, Tony Hymers. New members in addition to Bill Millman include Andy Millman and Katie McCulloch, all from Owen Sound.
December - The tartan arrives from Scotland. Band members, as well as Bruce Power President and CEO Duncan Hawthorne, are measured by a kilt maker from Owen Sound, Ontario. A group of supporters led by Sandra Sutherland go to work knitting hose for the band. Sandra's hose makers include Maureen Adams, Joyce Bowker, Ettabelle Bradley, Betty Fry, Ingrid Hennick, Maureen Lawrence, Joyce MacDonald, Paddy McGouran and Mary Musselman.
2003
January - The first kilt to arrive from the kilt maker is presented to Bruce Power President and CEO Duncan Hawthorne during a Penetangore practice in the United Church basement.
March - Bruce Power’s sponsorship of Penetangore is featured on the back page of the publication Community Update, which is distributed in area newspapers from Goderich to Owen Sound.
May - Kilts are issued at the Bruce Power Visitors' Centre and the band poses for a band picture. Penetangore performs at the Ancient Highlander’s Evening to help raise funds for the Kincardine Scottish Festival. The band is later featured in local papers with Bruce Power President and CEO Duncan Hawthorne presenting a $25,000 sponsorship contribution to the Festival. On May 22, the band performs in a street parade at Ontario Place in Toronto.
June - Penetangore participates in Goderich’s annual Celtic Blue Massed Band event. Snare drummer Kevin Ashton, a member of both Penetangore and Celtic Blue Highlanders, leads the parade as Drum Major.
Summer - Penetangore competes at Highland Games in Georgetown, Fort Erie, Chatham, Kincardine and Fergus. The band earns THIRD prize at Fort Erie and is in the top half of its field in the other competitions.
August - A Penetangore mini-band performs at Bruce Power’s Community Celebration in Saugeen Shores on the beach band shell. The band performs at Kincardine’s Faith Festival.
September - The executive is re-elected at the AGM with the addition of Marg MacDonald as Secretary. A decision is made to launch a Grade 5 entry-level band with Bill Millman serving as Pipe Major. New members include: Pipers Cayly Bellan, Julie Fair, Mike Marriott, and Bill Walker; Drummers Annzley Clark (tenor), Harold Cook (bass), Zack Miller, Sean Millman, Bob Moore, and Alyssa Walpole. Keith Bowker also returns to play in the Grade 5 drum corps. Terry Mills of Sarnia joins the Grade 4 pipe corps and Dave Haynes of Kincardine joins the Grade 4 drum corps. Resignations acknowledged at the AGM include: Todd Craig and Ian Wright.
October - Penetangore tenor drummer Jennifer Moore and bass drummer Brian Fry are presented with Champion Supreme awards from the PPBSO. They travel to the awards ceremony in Windsor to receive medals.
Winter - Penetangore practices every second Sunday at the United Church in Kincardine. Bruce Power contributes additional funds to maintain the sponsorship and help with operating expenses.
2004
April - Penetangore performs on Bruce Power’s behalf at the Supercities Walk for Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in Kincardine. Tenor Drummer Lauren Bonnett is recruited by the 78th Fraser Highlanders.
May - Penetangore presents A Caledonia Connection, produced by Pipe Major Bill McLeod. The concert is held on the long weekend and runs two nights at the Aztec Theatre in Kincardine. It features Ron Boucher, Border Crossing, Larry Irwin, Catherine McLeod, The Strathspey and Reel Society, Gordon Yoon and individuals from the 78th Fraser Highlanders.
June - Penetangore performs at Goderich’s annual Celtic Blue Massed Band event.
Summer - After competing in Georgetown, Hamilton and Kincardine with Grade 4 and 5 groups, Pipe Major Bill McLeod resigns on July 7. The band carries on under the leadership of Pipe Sergeant Bill Millman and Lead Drummer Gerry Radford. Jake Watson, a resident of Kincardine and a member of the 78th Fraser Highlanders, is recruited to provide assistance. He is reluctant because of other commitments but agrees to help the band get through the season. Penetangore fulfills earlier commitments to compete at Chatham, Sarnia, and Fergus. The organization also fulfills commitments to perform at Gathering of the Bands in Kincardine and at the annual Faith Festival in Kincardine's Victoria Park.
September - Penetangore leads the Labour Day Parade in Saugeen Shores and then performs at the CAW Centre. The band opens Relay for Life ceremonies on behalf of Bruce Power in Owen Sound on a Friday evening and then travels the next day to perform at the Ripley Fall Fair.
October - Penetangore performs at the Bruce Power Visitors’ Centre during Kincardine’s first annual Doors Open event. The Band’s AGM is held and the Board of Directors is acclaimed with the addition of Jake Watson as Music Director. (Jake cautions the membership that his commitment to the 78th Fraser Highlanders is also a priority.) Resignations from the year acknowledged at the AGM include Bill McLeod, Mariann Bone, Sean Millman, Beth Mimnagh, Bill Walker and Glenn Walpole. New members include: George Alderman, Helen Elliott, Frazer Fleming, Laurie Fleming, Deb Gauthier, Reid Johnson, Josh Lauzon, Ray Lavallee, Andrew MacKinnon, Glynda Matheson, Basil McCarthy, Lisa Moore, and Greg Scott. The new Board signs a revised band constitution that incorporates major sponsor Bruce Power's corporate values. Harold Cook travels to Kingston to the PPBSO's annual awards ceremony to receive the Champion Supreme award for Amateur Bass Drumming. Tenor drummer Annzley Clark is acknowledged by the PPBSO for winning the SILVER in Novice Tenor Drumming. Greg Scott of Highland Gear donates new Penetangore embroidered bag pipe covers to the band.
December - The magazine, Piper and Drummer, predicts that Penetangore will have a Grade 2 corps by 2007.
2005
January - Penetangore receives a sponsorship contribution from Bruce Power to put towards uniforms and equipment. The company also contributes a bolt of tartan that had been held in reserve. Appreciating that there is only one hosemaker still producing knitted hose, the Board asks members to purchase store-bought hose. A greenish-blue colour is selected to give the band a new look. Sandra Sutherland's hard work and contribution, as the last remaining hosemaker, is acknowledged.
April - Both the Grade 4 and the Grade 5 bands win FIRST PLACE at the Hanover Indoor Mini-Band contest. Piper Terry Mills is acknowledged by the band for going the entire winter without missing a weekly practice. Terry lives in Sarnia and travels with his wife De De MIlls for two-hours-plus for band rehearsals.
May - A new bass drum arrives for the Grade 5 drum corps. Drum mentor Craig Colquhoun inaugerates the drum during practice at the Bruce Power Visitors' Centre. To raise funds for the band, Laurie Bellan and Sandra Sutherland launch a line of Penetangore clothing that includes t-shirts, hoodies, golf shirts, caps, hats and other items. Members and friends of the band donate in exhange for the items.
June - Nick Reid leads Penetangore in a performance at the annual Goderich Massed Band on June 5, hosted by the Celtic Blue. The band returns home from the Georgetown Highland Games on June 11 with FIRST prize in the Grade 4 category and THIRD in Grade 5.
July - Penetangore wins FIRST prize in the Grade 4 competition at the Kincardine Scottish Festival on July 2. The Grade 5 band, led by Pipe Sergeant Watson Morris and Lead Drummer Zack Miller, comes FOURTH. On July 9, Penetangore places THIRD in the Grade 4 competition in Chatham.
August - Penetangore's Grade 5 band wins FIRST prize at the Sarnia Highland Games and the Grade 4 band comes SECOND. Both drum corps are ranked FIRST. Penetangore participates in the Gathering of the Bands in Kincardine. Visiting members of Tralee Pipes and Drums of Ireland arrive at the Visitors' Centre to watch Penetangore at regular practice.
September - Penetangore leads the Labour Day Parade in Port Elgin and then performs at the CAW Family Education Centre. The band performs in Kincardine at the Ministerial Faith Festival and also in Owen Sound on Bruce Power's behalf at Relay for Life. Piper Cayly Bellan kicks on the Terry Fox Run in Wingham with "The Bull" radio celebrity Joey Martin who wears a Penetangore kilt for the event.
October - Penetangore performs at the Bruce Power Visitors' Centre for Doors Open Kincardine. After serving three terms, Dave G. Wilson decides not to run for President. Gary Lauzon is elected President at the Band's AGM while the rest of the Board is acclaimed or appointed including Marg MacDonald, Secretary; Brian Fry, Treasurer; Bob Moore; and Rob Liddle, Bruce Power Liaison. Music Director Jake Watson announces that the PPBSO will allow Penetangore to enter a Grade 3 band in 2006 competitions. Pipe Majors are appointed as follows: Nick Reid, Grade 3; Watson Morris, Grade 4; Terry Mills, Grade 5. Resignations acknowledged at the AGM include Keith Bowker, David Haynes, Andrew MacKinnon, Jennifer Moore and Terry Reid. Terry Reid returns after a one-year hiatus to join the Grade 5 pipe corps. New members include Lauri Dalton, Bob Dixon, Graeme Ewen, Mary Farrell, James Hawkins, Ron Irving, Scott Macaulay, Val McComb, Graham McMaster, Jeff Swance, Kolton Stewart, Lori Stewart, Ashleigh Weeden, Dave J. Wilson and Sharon Wilson.
November - The roster now includes Grade 5, 4 and 3 bands with a total of 67 musicians. The members are issued new music and begin two-hour band practices at the Bruce Power Visitors' Centre every Sunday.
December - Penetangore drummers are included in a workshop at the Power Workers' Union Bruce Training Centre arranged by Craig Colquhoun that features Jim Kilpatrick MBE, John Fisher and Tyler Fry. Band associate Rob Miller produces a "Home Video" of Penetangore performances in 2005 for members and friends.
2006
January - Bruce Power contributes additional funds for more uniforms and equipment. With the Visitors' Centre undergoing renovations, the band practices at the Kincardine Legion and the Underwood Community Centre. The drum corps experiences an influx of new members including Emily Atkinson, Melissa Atkinson, Luke Bedard, Justin Biesinger, Bob Campbell, Jarrett Elliott, Jim McArthur, Brittany Priebe and Kathy Skinn.
February - Brian Fry attends the MS Society’s recognition dinner on behalf of Penetangore and receives an Award of Excellence for the band's support of the annual Supercities Walk for MS. Piper Jeff Swance shaves his head during a fundraiser in support of Camp Ooch which caters to children with cancer. Band members personally kick in several hundred dollars in support and Jeff is featured in the Kincardine News and in the Kincardine Independent.
March - The Board votes to change the look of the uniform by asking members to purchase long-sleeved, dark-blue shirts, and short-sleeved, light-blue shirts. Band associates Laurie Bellan and Sandra Sutherland coordinate the effort. Janice Matchett of Matchett Financial Services (Dundee) makes a sponsorship contribution to the band. Penetangore piper Kyle MacDonald pipes Olympic hockey star Cherie Piper from Team Canada onto the ice in Ripley arena.
April - Penetangore marches as a single unit on Bruce Power's behalf in the Supercities Walk for MS in Kincardine. A week later The Grade 5 band under the direction of Pipe Major Terry Mills and Lead Drummer Alyssa Walpole comes FOURTH in the Hanover Indoor Mini-band Contest. On the same day, Pipe Major Watson Morris leads a second Penetangore Band in a Lion's Club Parade in Kincardine.
June - Penetangore performs under the direction of Pipe Major Nick Reid as a full-band at the Massed Band event in Goderich. The Grade 5 band competes at Georgetown and comes THIRD.
July - Ken Fair of the Kincardine Lions Club presents Penetangore with a sponsorship cheque for $250. The Grade 5 band comes FIRST at the Kincardine Highland Games and the Grade 3 Band comes THIRD. A week later, the Grade 3 band wins THIRD at the Chatham Highland Games. For the first time ever, all three bands compete at the same games in Cambridge. Grade 3 comes FIRST, Grade 4 SEVENTH and Grade 5 FIFTH.
August - Penetangore performs on Bruce Power's behalf at Kincardine's first Relay for Life event to raise money for the fight against cancer. Penetangore's Grade 5 band competes at the Fergus Highland Games and comes FIFTH. Penetangore performs as a single band at Gathering of the Bands in Kincardine.
September - Penetangore performs with Sheila Milne's School of Dance at The Celtic Festival in Owen Sound. The PPBSO announces that Brian Fry has won 2006 Champion Supreme for Professional Solo Bass. The AGM is announced for Oct. 29.
October - Rob Miller, father of snare drummer Zack Miller, is acclaimed President of the Penetangore Pipe Band when Gary Lauzon decides not to run for re-election. Music Director Jake Watson appoints Ashleigh Weeden, Nick Reid and Terry Mills to act as Pipe Majors for the Grade 3, 4 and 5 bands respectively. Other acclamations include Brian Fry, Treasurer; Marg MacDonald, Secretary; Bob Moore, Quartermaster; and Gerry Radford, Lead Drummer. Rob Liddle stays on as Bruce Power Liaison. Resignations acknowledged from the previous year include: Luke Bedard, Cayly Bellan, Colby Bellan, Justin Biesinger, Bob Campbell, Annzley Clark, Helen Elliott, Graeme Ewen, Jennifer Farrell, Mary Farrell, Josh Lauzon, Mike Marriott, Jim McArthur, Katie McCulloch, Jennifer Moore, Watson Morris, Leslie Ray, Greg Scott, Lori Stewart and Kolton Stewart. New members include William Belet, Robert Calquhoun, Daniel Carr, Kevin Driscoll, Scott Henderson, Steve LaRue, Maria Lozada and Pat Reid. Julie Fair takes a leave of absence.
November -Treasurer Brian Fry and Bruce Power liaison Rob Lidde finalize government requirements to incorporate the Penetangore Pipe Band as a not-for-profit corporation.
2007
January - Penetangore sends a mini-band to perform at Bruce Power's Robbie Burns dinner in Toronto. The mini-band includes Jake Watson, Gerry Radford, Ashleigh Weeden, Zack Miller, Andy Millman, Kyle MacDonald, Lisa Moore and Brian Fry.
April - Penetangore marches as a single unit on Bruce Power's behalf in the Supercities Walk for MS in Kincardine. A week later the three bands compete at the indoor games in Hanover. Grade 3 wins FIRST.
Summer - The band performs at games in Georgetown and Kincardine and continues on to finish off the season with a FOURTH in Chatham and a FIRST in Fergus. Quartermaster Bob Moore resigns and Lisa Moore assumes the role of Quartermaster. Penetangore members provide assistance to the Kincardine Lions in the hospitality booth during a Bulldog Hockey Team ball tournament.
September - Penetangore performs at Relay for Life in Kincardine on behalf of Bruce Power, the Celtic Festival in Owen Sound and the Ripley Fall Fair. (A photo of the band is featured on the front page of the Owen Sound Sun Times.) Snare drummer Zack Miller is recruited by the Scottish Lion 78th Fraser Highlanders.
October - That AGM is held at the Bruce Power Visitors' Centre. The new Board of Directors includes: Rob Liddle, President; Brian Fry, Treasurer; Kathy Skinn, Secretary; Lisa Moore, Quartermaster; Jake Watson, Music Director; Gerry Radford, Lead Drummer; Ashleigh Weeden, Grade 3 Pipe Major; Bill Millman, Grade 3 Pipe Sergeant; Nick Reid, Grade 4 Pipe Major; Terry Mills, Grade 5 Pipe Major. Other resignations include Gerry Bailey, Harold Cook, Mike Dalton, Bob Dixon, Kevin Driscoll, Jarrett Elliott, Daniel Fenton, Scott Macaulay, Graham MacMaster, Basil McArthy, Val McComb, Jim Price, Brittany Priebe, Pat Reid, Terry Reid, Joel Riggin, Alyssa Walpole, Dave G. Wilson, Dave J. Wilson and Sharon Wilson. New members include: Jeff Beatty, David Belet, Elika Belet, Tom Christensen, Michael Fitak, De De Mills, Dave Whittall and Deb Whittall. Grade 4 Pipe Major Nick Reid resigns two weeks after the AGM explaining that time is an issue because of training commitments involving his acceptance in Bruce Power's Authorized Nuclear Operator program.
November - Lisa Moore and Zack Miller travel to Milton to receive Champion Supreme awards from the PPBSO. Lisa wins for Amateur Flourishing Tenor and Zack's prize is for Grade 2 snare drumming. Four pipers travel from Chicago, Illinois to join Penetangore's Grade 4 band.
2008
January - Craig Colquhoun invites Lead Drummer Gerry Radford and snare drummer Whitney Bonnett to join a new pipe band, Spirit of Scotland, he is helping to form to compete as a Grade 1 band at the 2008 Worlds in Scotland. Gerry declines because of commitments at work and Penetangore, but Whitney is able to accept the opportunity. Penetangore sends a mini-band to perform at Bruce Power's Robbie Burns dinner in Toronto. The mini-band includes Jake Watson, Gerry Radford, Ashleigh Weeden, Zack Miller, Andy Millman, Bill Millman, Kyle MacDonald, Lisa Moore and Brian Fry.
February - Former Quartermaster Bob Moore provides the band with website domains that reserve the name Penetangore. President Rob Liddle agrees to develop the website as a communications tool for the band.
March - The Board of Directors meets and decides to withdraw the Grade 3 band from competition for at least a year to reinforce the Grade 4 and 5 bands. Ashleigh Weeden resigns after a decision to play with the Grade 1 Niagara Police Pipe Band until August when she plans to travel to British Columbia where she has been accepted into the University of Victoria. Jake Watson advises that he has withdrawn from the Scottish Lion 78th Fraser Highlanders because of work commitments. A new website, www.penetangore.com is launched. A photo of the band is featured in the Owen Sound Sun Times "Showtime" feature in reference to the Celtic Festival.
April - Penetangore performs at the Supercities Walk for MS in Kincardine, Ontario. Barb Goetz, Community Relations Manager at Bruce Power, presents the band with a sponsorship cheque for the band to purchase additional equipment and uniform items. The Grade 5 group competes in Hanover under the direction of Pipe Major Terry Mills and wins second prize. (It is the first time in competition for pipers Dale Beckner, David Whittall and tenor drummer Elika Belet. It is the first time in seven years for Lead Drummer Deb Whittall.
May - The Kincardine Lions Club, represented by Ken Fair, contributes $500 to the band to be put towards uniforms for assistance provided in 2007 at a Kincardine Bulldog's fundraising ball tournament. Penetangore’s Grade 4 and 5 groups compete at the Alma Scottish Festival in Michigan. The Grade 4 group places SECOND on May 24 and THIRD on May 25; the Grade 5 group places THIRD on May 24. In Alma solo Grade 4 piping competition, William Belet places THIRD and Frazer Fleming places SIXTH in a field of 15 pipers.
June - Penetangore competes at the Georgetown Highland Games on June 14 with Grade 4 and Grade 5 groups. The Grade 4 band wins FIRST prize and best drum corp . At the same event in solo competition, William Belet places FIRST in Grade 4 piping; Lisa Moore places FIRST in novice bass drumming, former member Glenn Walpole wins best overall amateur piper and former member Zack Miller wins best overall amateur drummer. (Glenn is a member of the Grade 1 Peel Regional Police Band and Zack is a member of the Grade 1 Scottish Lion 78th Fraser Highlanders.) Immediately following Georgetown, piper Hannah Liddle travels to Port Elgin to pipe down the sun for a Study Group from the 2008 Governor General’s Conference. On June 21, Penetangore’s Grade 4 group wins first prize and best bass section at the Chicago Highland Games; that evening piper Steve LaRue hosts the band at his home in Yorkville, Illinois. The Power Workers’ Union gives Brian Fry a sponsorship cheque for $1,500 to present to the band on June 26.
July - On July 5, Penetangore’s Grade 4 group wins FIRST prize at the Kincardine Scottish Festival and the Grade 5 group picks up THIRD. The awards are announced by former Pipe Major Bill McLeod, a Vice President with the PPBSO. (On behalf of Bruce Power, Penetangore President Rob Liddle presents the Grade 1 first-place trophy to Bill Livingston of the Scottish Lion 78th Fraser Highlanders.) On July 12, Penetangore’s Grade 4 group comes THIRD in Chatham.
August - On Aug. 2, Penetangore’s Grade 4 group competes at the Glengarry Highland Games in Maxville after a massive thunderstorm and come FIRST to win the North Amercian Championship. In solo competition Frazer Fleming comes FOURTH in Grade 4 March B Piping. He then goes on to win THIRD in Grade 4 March A Piping and FIFTH in Piobaireachd Piping at the Montreal Highland Games on Aug. 3. On Aug. 9, the Grade 4 competition at the Fergus Scottish Festival is cancelled because of heavy rain. William Belet, competing solo, earns a THIRD in Grade 4 March Piping. Grade 5 competes in Fergus on Aug. 10 but does not place in spite of an excellent performance. On Aug. 15, Jake Watson and Gerry Radford lead a Penetangore mini-band in Kincardine’s Relay for Life event to raise money for the fight against cancer. On Aug. 23, Penetangore performs in Victoria Park at the Kincardine Scottish Pipe Band’s annual Gathering of the Bands event. The Board of Directors meets and passes motions to purchase additional chanters and new sporrans.
September - Penetangore performs at the Celtic Festival in Owen Sound on Sept. 13. The band’s Annual General Meeting is held on Sept. 28 and the 2007-2008 Board of Directors is acclaimed. It includes elected members Jake Watson, Music Director; Gerry Radford, Lead Drummer; Rob Liddle, President; Kathy Skinn, Secretary; Brian Fry, Treasurer; Lisa Moore, Quartermaster; Bill Millman and Terry Mills are re-appointed as members of the Board. Resignations at include: Cayly Bellan, Colby Bellan, Elleke Belet, David Belet, William Belet, Jeff Beatty, Tom Christensen, Scott Hendersen, Ray Lavalee, Maria Lozada, and Dave Wilson. Bass Drummer Brian Fry advises that he will be taking a year off from competition. New members include: Mark Dew, Kathleen Dicker, Andrea Ewing-Ostergard, Hal Graham, Bill Penrose and Terry Pinkley. Julie Fair and Dave G. Wilson return to the Grade 5 pipe corps after some time away. Jake Watson and Deb Gauthier take leave of absences to accept work assignments in New Brunswick.
November - Penetangore’s Grade 4 group is awarded Champion Supreme medals from the Pipers and Pipe Band Society of Ontario at the Highland Ball in Hamilton, Ontario. Lisa Moore and Fraser Fleming accept on the band’s behalf. A box of new chanters, ordered by Music Director Jake Watson, arrives at Treasurer Brian Fry’s house for the Grade 5 group. Piper Michael Fitak launches a new Tunes page on the Internet, which is linked to the website www.penetangore.com to allow the band’s musicians to access audio files and sheet music.
December - Piper Hannah Liddle accepts a sponsorship cheque from the Society of Energy Professionals to be put towards band uniforms and equipment.
2009
January - A mini-band travels to Hart House in Toronto to perform at Bruce Power’s Robbie Burns Celebration. Musicians Robert Colquhoun, Reid Johnson, Bill Millman, Lisa Moore, Terry Pinkley, Gerry Radford and Jeff Swance put on an impressive performance. The seven musicians are featured with Bruce Power President and CEO Duncan Hawthorne on the front page of the company's weekly POINT FORM publication.
March - Senior snare drummer George Alderman announces that he is taking some time off from competition for health reasons.
April - Pipe Major Terry Mills leads a Grade 5 mini-band into competition at the Toronto Indoor Games on April 4. Plagued by problems that include a broken snare drum and bass drone reed, the group still manages a FOURTH place finish. It is the first time in competition for Tenor Drummer Kathleen Dicker and the first time with Penetangore for Bass Drummer Bill Penrose. On April 19, a Penetangore big band (both Grade 3 and 5) leads the Supercities Walk for MS in Kincardine, Ontario. Musicians Andrea Ewing-Ostergard, Michael Fitak and Steve LaRue make the trek from Chicago for the event and band rehearsal afterwards. Grade 5 and 3 Penetangore mini-bands compete at the Hanover Indoor Games on April 25; the Grade 5 band doesn't place; Grade 3 comes SECOND after Hamilton Police Pipe Band. Band Secretary Kathy Skinn submits her resignation on April 30; former Band Secretary Marg MacDonald volunteers to provide assistance during transition.
May - Bass Drummer Robert Colquhoun helps out in his kilt at the Scottish Exhibit at Kincardine's Multicultural Festival on May 5. A decision is made to withdraw the Grade 3 band’s entry from Georgetown and Kincardine Highland Games to give the group more time to prepare for competition when Pipe Major Jake Watson returns from a work assignment in New Brunswick. The Grade 5 band competes at the Alma Highland Festival in Michigan on May 23 and 24 and places SECOND and FOURTH, respectively. The new sporrans arrive and an arrangement is made to sell 25 of the old sporrans to the Burlington Fire Fighters Pipe Band that Penetangore Piper Jeff Swance leads.
June - Penetangore’s Grade 5 group puts forth a good effort at the Georgetown Highland Games under the direction of Pipe Major Terry Mills and Lead Drummer Deb Whittall.
July - Penetangore’s Grade 5 group competes at games in Kincardine and Cambridge. Jake Watson and Deb Gauthier return from work assignments in New Brunswick. After an assessment of the Grade 3 group by Jake, a decision is made to withdraw from remaining 2009 PPBSO competitions. Dispensation is requested by Secretary Marg MacDonald and is received from the PPBSO to allow some of the players from the in-active Grade 3 group to compete with Penetangore’s Grade 5 group; Bill Millman, Andy Millman, Kyle MacDonald and Jeff Swance make the move.
August - Penetagore’s Grade 5 group competes at the Glengarry Highland Games in Maxville and the Fergus Scottish Festival. The band performs at the Kincardine Scottish’s annual Gathering of the Bands event. The Board of Directors meet and Jake Watson outlines his plan for a new Penetangore Grade 2 group in association with the Grade 1 Peel Regional Police Pipe Band. Jake also advises that he will be playing with Peel to support Pipe Major John Cairns.
September - Penetangore’s Annual General Meeting is held on Sept. 27 and the following people are acclaimed: Rob Liddle, President; Marg MacDonald, Secretary; Brian Fry, Treasurer; Lisa Moore, Quartermaster; Gerry Radford, Lead Drummer; Jake Watson, Music Director. In Jake's absence, Craig Colquhoun gives a progress report on the proposed Grade 2 group and potential leaders. Other appointments are to be made by Jake Watson when band leaders are assigned. Resignations acknowledged at the AGM included Julie Fair, Bill Penrose, Dave G. Wilson and Anders Ivo. A decision is confirmed to not field a Grade 5 group in the 2009-2010.
October - Rehearsals resume on a Sunday-Sunday-Saturday-off cycle with the new Grade 4 group as Craig Colquhoun and Jake Watson sort out details for a Grade 2 band. Piper Hal Graham resigns after playing the 2008-2009 season with Penetangore's Grade 5 group. Robert Hay from Owen Sound joins the Grade 4 pipe corps. PIper Andy Millman is recruited by the Peel Regional Police Pipe Band and joins a pipe corps that also includes former Penetangore player Glenn Walpole.
December - The first rehearsal is held for the new Penetagore Grade 2 group in Campbellville, Ontario, because of the number of new players from that region. Jake Watson announces that Tom Anderson is the Pipe Major and Graham Kirkwood is Lead Drummer. Jeff Swance makes the necessary arrangements for the group to use a hall at the Kilbride United Church and the Burlington Legion as practice facilities. Other Penetangore players making the trek to rehearse with Grade 2 include Robert Colquhoun, Kyle MacDonald, Lisa Moore and Terry Pinkney.
2010
January - A Penetangore mini-band performs at Bruce Power's Robbie Burns Evening in Toronto. Brian Fry, Deb Gauthier, Andy Millman, Bill Millman, Lisa Moore, Terry Pinkney, Gerry Radford and Jake Watson represent the band. The Penetangore Board of Directors approves the purchase of new drums and specified equipment to be used initially by the Grade 2 band.
February - Tom Anderson resigns as Grade 2 Pipe Major but agrees to continue to support the new band. Doug Wickham is appointed Pipe Major by Jake Watson. Quartermaster Lisa Moore trucks the band's uniform inventory to Kilbride, Ontario to outfit the new Grade 2 organization. Piper Reid Johnson advises Grade 4 Pipe Major Bill Millman that he is taking a year off from the band. Marshall Chamberlain from Sarnia, Ontario, is accepted into the Grade 4 band on recommendation from Terry Mills. President Rob Liddle attends a Raptor's basketball game at the Air Canada Centre in Toronto with other community volunteers on invitation from Bruce Power in recognition for his work with the Penetangore Pipe Band. The Board of Directors meets and receives an update from Jake Watson on the Grade 2 band.
April - After many revisions, the Grade 2 roster is confirmed with the following players: Pipe Major Doug Wickham, Lead Drummer Graham Kirkwood; Pipers Dave Goodall, Andrew Green, Callum Harper, Kaitlin Kimove, Trish Kirkwood, Kyle MacDonald, Chuck Matheson, Cameron Perry, Terry Pinkney, Deb Siebert, Patrick Sweeny; Drummers Cheryle DaPonte, Paula Harper, Fiona Weir, Robert Colquhoun, Chris Bell, Rob Calder and Jaclyn Gomme. Penetangore performs at the Supercities Walk for MS on behalf of Bruce Power.
May - Snare Drummers Melissa Atkinson and James Hawkins advise Lead Drummer Gerry Radford that they'll be withdrawing from competition for the year. Penetangore Penetangore's Grade 4 band travels to the Alma Scottish Festival and Highland Games in Michigan and wins THIRD prize at the Saturday event and THIRD prize at the Sunday event. Rob Hay, Scott McGregor,De De Mills, Dave Whittall and Deb Whittall compete with the Grade 4 group for the first time. Senior Snare Drummer George Alderman is back in the line up for the first time in competition since 2008 and veterans Steve LaRue and Michael Fitak make the trek from Chicago to compete with the band. Michael also competes as instructor with the Grade 5 Tunes of Glory Pipe Band, which wins FIRST place on both days. At the same event in solo competition, Kaitin Kimove from the Grade 2 group wins Best Amateur Piobaireachd. Bass Drummer Brian Fry travels to Holland to perform with the Ontario Fire Fighters Pipe Band in celebrations marking the 65th Anniversary of the Liberation of Holand. Former Penetangore piper Pat Reid, now with the 400th Squadron of Orillia, is also in the line up.
June - Penetangore's Grade 4 band wins THIRD prize at the Georgetown Highland Games while the Grade 2 band debuts at the same event, coming SECOND against Fredericton Society of Saint Andrew Pipe Band. In solo competition, Marshall Chamberlain competes for the first time in Grade 5 and comes FIRST. Nigel Smedmore joins the Grade 4 group. A sponsorship application is approved by Bruce Power to provide additional funding for more tartan and the manufacture of kilts.
July - Penetangore's Grade 2 Pipe Major Doug Wickham and Grade 1 Peel Regional Police Pipe Band Pipe Major John Cairns finalize the details of an agreement initiated by Jake Watson to formalize a unique player-exchange development program between the two bands. Penetangore's Grade 4 band comes FOURTH in a line-up of ten bands at the Kincardine Scottish Festival, while Grade 2 places THIRD after City of Chicago Pipe Band and Burnett's & Struth Pipe Band (Barry, Ontario). Penetangore’s Chris Bell is awarded Professional Drummer of the Day at the event. Other Penetangore soloists who place included Marshall Chamberlain, Kaitlin Kimove, Callum Harper,and Cameron Harper. Both the Grade 2 and 4 bands are outfitted with new vests at the event by Quartermaster Lisa Moore. Penetangore's Grade 2 band comes THIRD at the Oshawa Highland Games after Glengarry Pipe Band and Burnett's & Struth. Penetangore's Grade 4 group wins SECOND prize at the Cambridge Highland Games. The Grade 2 group, as the only Grade 2 group at the event, serves as Duty Band and is awarded FIRST prize. Penetangore's Grade 4 band places FOURTH at the Glengarry Highland Games (Maxville) and North American Championship. The Grade 2 band does well but does not place in a contest won by City of Chicago Pipe Band. In solo competitions, Callum Harper makes a big splash in Grade 2 with a FIRST in S/R A, a FIRST in Jig A, a SECOND in March A, and a FIRST in Intermediate Amateur Piobaireachd A. Kaitlin Kimove wins FOURTH in Jig B and 6th in S/R B. In Grade 5, Marshall Chamberlain earns a SECOND. In drumming, Fiona Weir wins FOURTH in the Amateur Flourishing Tenor contest and FIFTH in the Amateur Tenor contest, while Lisa Moore takes the title for Amateur Bass.
August - With Grade 4 Pipe Major Bill Millman accompanying son Andy Millman and the Peel Regional Police Pipe Band at the World Championship in Scotland, Jeff Swance leads the Grade 4 band with Lead Drummer Gerry Radford in competition at the Fergus Highland Games. The band wins A FOURTH prize at the event. In solo competition on the same day, Penetangore players do well with Marshall Chamberlain earned a FIRST in Grade 5 March; Kaitlin Kimove, FIRST in Grade 2 S/R; Callum Harper, SECOND in Grade 2 S/R and a FOURTH in March; Lisa Moore, FIRST in Amateur Bass Drumming. Penetangore's Board of Directors holds the first of two final meetings scheduled before the upcoming Annual General Meeting to review the band's business and revisions that have been suggested for the band's Constitution. Music Director Jake Watson leads a Penetangore band with players from both the Grade 2 and Grade 4 groups during a performance in Victoria Park in Kincardine at the annual Gathering of the Bands event organized by the Kincardine Scottish Pipe Band. Grade 2 Pipe Major Doug Wickham recruits Ken Allan to help with the administration of the Grade 2 group and provide support to Band Secretary Marg MacDonald.
September - A new Board of Directors is acclaimed at the band's Annual General Meeting at the Bruce Power Visitors' Centre. It includes: Ashleigh Weeden, President; Katie Ashton, Treasurer; Marg MacDonald, Secretary; Lisa Moore, Quartermaster; Jake Watson, Music Director. Appointments to the Board include: Bill Millman, Grade 4 Pipe Major; Gerry Radford, Grade 4 Lead Drummer; Doug Wickham, Grade 2 Pipe Major; Harvey Dawson, Grade 2 Lead Drummer. Retiring President Rob Liddle agrees to remain on the Board as Bruce Power Liaison to assist with transition and communications. Retiring Treasurer Brian Fry is acknowledged for his nine years of service on the Board. Laurie Flemming and Ken Allan accept newly created positions as Band Administrators for the Grade 4 and 2 groups respectively to provide support to the Pipe Majors and Band Secretary. Resignations are received from long-time Sarnia travellers Terry and De De Mills and Dave and Deb Whithall. Their years of service and dedication are acknowledged.
October - Weekly rehearsals resume with the Grade 2 band practicing at the Burlington Legion and the Grade 4 band practicing at the Bruce Power Visitors' Centre. Led by Pipe Major Doug Wickham, members from both Pentangore bands performs as a single unit at the Hamilton Convention Centre for the 3rd annual Scotchtoberfest event featuring Enter the Haggis, Liam McGlashon and others.
December - Rosters are established for the 2011 contest season.
2011
January - The Board of Directors holds its first meeting of the year and decides to move forward with a new style and colour of shirts and uniform ties. New artwork and a logo is also to be considered with submissions to be requested from graphic designers.
February - A Penetangore mini-band performs at Bruce Power's annual Robbie Burns Evening in Toronto on Feb. 3 for corporate executives and guests from Ontario's energy sector. The event, hosted by Bruce Power President and CEO Duncan Hawthorne, is held at the Grand Banking Hall on King Street. Other performing artists included Colin Mochrie, Debra McGrath, Karen McCulloch and Jan Menkal. Mini-band members include Jake Watson, Gerry Radford, Andy Millman, Deb Gauthier, Rob Hay, Whitney Bonnett, Lisa Moore and Brian Fry. Penetangore mentor Craig (Hoss) Calquhoun and snare drummer Whitney Bonnett appear in the film On the Day: the Story of the Spirit of Scotland Pipeband in Cineplex theatres on Feb. 9 and 13. The two musicians performed with Spirit of Scotland when some of the world's top musicians got together to form a band specifically to compete in the 2009 World Pipe Band Championship. The documentary was put together by acclaimed Producer/Director John McDonald.
March - Bill Millman steps down as Pipe Major of the Grade 4 Penetangore Pipe Band to take more time to recover from a shoulder injury sustained the previous fall. Ashleigh Weeden, who also serves as the band’s President, assumes the role and to work with Bill, Music Director Jake Watson and Lead Drummer Gerry Radford to prepare for the contest season.
April - Penetangore's Grade 2 and 4 bands join forces on April 17 under Pipe Major Doug Wickham at the Davidson Centre in Kincardine, Ontario to kick off the 11th annual Supercities Walk for MS. The weather is cold with rain and snow but approximately 300 supporters participate in the event. More than $40,000 is raised to find a cure for muscular distrophy and help those afflicted with the disease.
May - Marshall Chamberlain and Alex Adams enjoy some success on May 7 at the PPBSO Western Branch Kiwanis Competition. Marshall wins FIRST place in Grade 4 March, while Alex earns a FOURTH in Senior Amateur Piobaireachd and 6th in Grade 1 March and 6th in Grade 1 Strathspey & Reel.
June - A Penetangore mini-band performs for an appreciative audience on June 4 at Kelso Beach near Owen Sound, Ontario in support of a fundraiser for the Ann Milne Dance School. June 11, 2011 - Penetangore's Grade 4 band places THIRD in the Georgetown Highland Games on June 11 while the organization's Grade 2 group comes FOURTH in a lineup of five pipe bands. The Grade 4 competion Is won by Niagara Regional Police Pipe Band, with Arnprior MacNab Pipe Band coming second. The Grade 2 contest Is won by Glengarry Pipe Band from Eastern Ontario. Penetangore solo players fair well with Jeremy Evans coming FIRST in Professional Flurishing Tenor, Fional Weir coming FIRST in Amateur Flourishing Tenor and Marshall Chamberlain coming THIRD in Grade 4 March A piping. On June 18, Penetangore's Grade 4 band places SECOND overall in a field of 14 pipe bands and FIRST in drumming at the Chicago Highland Games. The band is led by Pipe Sergeant Jeff Swance and Lead Drummer Gerry Radford.
July - Penetangore's Grade 4 band earns SECOND place in a field of nine on July 2 at the Kincardine Scottish Festival. The Niagara Regional Police Pipe Band win the event. In Grade 2 competition, Penetangore's Grade 2 band comes SECOND, following the Rob Roy Pipe Band from Kingston, Ontario. In solo competition, Penetangore's Marshall Chamberlain comes FIRST in Grade 4 March piping, while Alex Adams earns a FIFTH in Senior Amateur Piobaireachd A . Anders Ivo wins the Amateur Flourishing Tenor contest. On July 16, Penetangore's two bands earn THIRD place at the Cambridge Highland Games, Grade 2 in a field of four pipe bands, and Grade 4 in a field of seven. In solo competition, Penetangore's Jeremy Evans places FIRST in Professional Flourishing Tenor while Anders Ivo comes FIRST in Amateur Flourishing Tenor. Penetangore's Grade 4 band comes FOURTH at the North American Championship on July 31 at the Glengarry Highland Games in Maxville, Ontario.
August - Pentangore's Grade 2 band comes FIRST at the Fergus Highland Games on August 14, while Grade 4 finishes FOURTH. A Fairwell Ceildh is held for Grade 2 Pipe Major Doug Wickham on August 20 at the Scottish Rite Hamilton Masonic Centre.Doug is moving to Germany with his family. Music Director Jake Watson leads members from both Penetangore Bands during a performance on August 27 at Gathering of the Bands in Kincardine. A new Penetangore website is launched on August 28. It's announced that Penetangore's AGM will be held from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Sept. 25 at the Bruce Power Visitors' Centre.
September - Penetangore's Grade 2 and Grade 4 bands both place second in their categories for the 2011 competition season as ranked by the Pipers and Pipe Band Society of Ontario (PPBSO). The AGM is held at the Bruce Power Visitors' Centre and Ashleigh Weeden announces that she will not be standing for re-election as President because of other commitments. The following Board members are acclaimed: Jake Watson, Music Director; Gerry Radford, Grade 4 Lead Drummer; Harv Dawson, Grade 2 Lead Drummer; Marg MacDonald, Secretary; Katie Ashton, Treasurer; Lisa Moore, Quartermaster; Rob Liddle, Communications Director. Jeff Swance is appointed as Pipe Major of the Grade 4 band, while Jake Watson takes on the role of interim Pipe Major for the Grade 2 band. The President's position remains vacant when nominations are declined.
November - Members of the both the Grade 2 and 4 bands perform at a Remembrance Day ceremony on behalf of the Bronte Royal Canadian Legion in Oakville, Ontario on Nov. 6. Grade 4 bass drummer and band founder Brian Fry announces that he is retiring to spend the winter months in Florida. "Brow" will maintain his association with the band but can't commit to performances when he is not able to be at winter rehearsals. Piper Deb Gauthier offers up some storage space for the band's stores to provide some relief for Quartermaster Lisa Moore. Jeff Boyle, a bass drummer in the Grade 2 band, advises the Penetangore Board of Directors that he is willing to take on the role of President. Jeff's offer is unanimously accepted by Board members on Nov. 24.
2012
January - Rob Hay is appointed Pipe Sergeant of the Grade 4 band. Jamie Connolly joins the organization as Pipe Major of the Grade 2 band.