CALEB NICKERSON
QUYON May 5, 2018
Keeping with their reputation as a musical hub in the Ottawa Valley, Gavan’s Hotel in Quyon was host to a musical expo like no other on Saturday afternoon. Serving as a fundraiser for the town’s Canada Day fireworks, the event started just after noon with a well-attended open mic, featuring everything from classic rock to country and bluegrass. As the afternoon turned into evening, two area bands took to the stage.
“Michael Whalen was the inspiration. He’s in a band called Ladies and Escorts,” explained Cindy Forin, who organized the event along with hosts Sue Johnson and Christian Patterson. “Their focus is on the old-time taverns. They’re a four-piece, two men, two ladies, doing the old country songs.

He’s like, ‘You know Cindy, there’s a goldmine there at Gavan’s, and we have to get up there and we have to play. So let’s get this together.’”
In addition to Ladies and Escorts, J.D. Brownriggs & Saturday Night also performed a set.
When asked if she had ever organized anything similar before, Forin was blunt.
“Never, it’s baptism by fire, baby!”
Forin explained that she is friends with many musicians through Irene’s Pub in Ottawa, and she said they even chartered a bus to take people up from the city.
“It’s been a long time since I moved out of Quyon, but I have really strong roots in the community and it’s really great to try to give back,” she said. “People forget about the music and the history that has taken place between these four walls. It’s pretty incredible to bring the musicians, and to raise awareness, not only for Canada Day, but we have a beautiful tavern here, the gateway to the Pontiac. It’s the heart and soul of this town.”