SIXTH ANNUAL MAIMONIDES BATLE OF THE BANDS
A ROCK’N SUCCESS!!

December 16, 2008— The 6th annual Maimonides Battle of the Bands was a rock’n success generating $225,000 towards the Suite Dreams Capital Renovation Campaign to refurbish all of the residents’ rooms. About 1500 people packed Metropolis on Wednesday December 3rd and Thursday December 4th to hear eight amateur bands made up of dentists, lawyers and other professionals belt it out to raise funds for Maimonides Geriatric Centre.

“The amount we raised is amazing given the tough economic climate. This is truly a gem of an event that the community supports year after year,” says Rory Olson who co-chaired the 2008 Battle of the Bands along with Gerry Kandestin and Terri Klein.

This year, back by popular demand, Maimonides rolled out the red carpet for its sponsors with a VIP cocktail reception before the show featuring Ian Cooney and Sky Lounge.

On December 3rd, The Steamfitters with Marc Gold and Peter Kalichman performed along with The Dynamics which featured Jeff Solomon and Jodi Lazarus. Benny and the Healers featured well-known Montreal dental surgeons Dr. Benny Saleh and Dr. Sylvio Caro. Who Cares wowed the crowd with front-man Rory Olson. On December 4th, NEW this year, Here’s Johnny, included Jeff Stattner, John Miller and Steve Gurman.  Gerry Kandestin and friends treated the audience to a little bit of country. UB Over 40 featured Morris Dascal and incredible vocalist Janyss Greenberg.  Switchback featured Freddie Naimer and Elliott Schuchat. MC Andy Nulman opened both nights performing with Sam I Am.

A special finale song called “More than Care” and written by Ian Cooney was performed by all the bands as pictures of the Maimonides community flashed on the screen in the background. 

“The Finale song was the highlight of the evening and will become the Maimonides song. This year’s event was the best one yet. I am so proud of everyone who took part in this wonderful extravaganza of music and love. Looking forward to next year!!,” says co-chair Terri Klein.

Event sponsors: Dorel and Scotiabank. Other sponsors include: Steve’s Music Store, Spa Diva/ Spa Diva Medical, the law firm of Kugler Kandestin, “Who Cares”, SOGO T-Shirts and “Benny and the Healers”, Globe Metal, Delmar, American Iron and Metal  Media Sponsors: CJAD, MIX 96 and CHOM 97.7 FM and Dascal d/a.  Food was provided by Dagwoods, Adar, Krispy Kreme, Le Living Room Caterers, Canvend and Dubord and Rainville.