Board Of DirectorsThe Georgian Bay Folk Society Board of Directors

 

You may reach these people by emailing them care of GBFS at gbfs@bmts.com

 

Ruth Parsons

President

Experienced business owner and social work/group facilitator, Ruth has much to offer the GBFS. As a previous member of the Canadian Mental Health Board and the Parent Advisory Board of the Bluewater School District, she is knowledgeable in both board governance and conflict resolution. Ruth’s background and experience as a GBFS board member, committee chair and volunteer will assist her in being a vital addition to the personnel and planning committees.


Phil Bye

1st Vice President

Dedicated to the GBFS for over 35 years, Phil has been a volunteer, committee chair and board member over his time with the Folk Society. Phil’s previous experience with the Ministry of Environment, the Agricultural Society and the SR Management Group allows him to bring both his business management and human resources skills will be invaluable qualities as Chair of the Personnel and member of the Planning Committees .


Derek Sparnaay

2nd Vice President
Summerfolk Coordinator

Highly trained in the business of computer intel and services, Derek will be a great asset to the GBFS. His presence on the Board of Directors and 18 years of experience volunteering at the Summerfolk Music & Crafts Festival both as Security and bar Coordinator, Derek brings a necessary viewpoint to the boardroom.


Debbie Blackshaw

Treasurer
Finance Chair

 







Debbie McKague

Secretary

Debbie is an active volunteer in a number of organizations throughout Grey Bruce.  Over the years, Debbie has also been an manager in both retail and service industries.  As the Property Manager of the Owen Sound Professional Centre an d a co-chair of the Business Excellence Awards at the Chamber of Commerce, she has her finger on the pulse of local business.  Her wealth of knowledge and experience in these fields makes her an invaluable member of  the GBFS Board.


Carolyn Bigley

Grant Oversight Committee Chair

Carolyn has been involved in Ontario’s folk arts community for over 30 years, including serving as President of the Ontario Council of Folk Festivals, President of Folk Alliance International and Chair of the Owen Sound Celtic Festival. She is currently Co-Chair of the Owen Sound Buskerfest and serves on the City of Owen Sound’s Cultural Advisory Committee. Adept in fundraising, policy implementation, grant writing, event and promotional planning, she is looking forward to putting these skills at the disposal of the Folk Society.


Steve Ritchie

Connections Co-chair










Wayne McIntee

Connections Co-chair

Being in real estate since 1975 and president of the local real estate board for 4 terms, Wayne is an expert in communications and a genuine ‘people person’. His positive attitude and contagious smile make him a pleasant addition to the Folk Society. As an avid supporter of the GBFS, both as a sponsor and Co-Chair of the Connections Committee, he looks forward to making a difference on the Board and in the local arts and culture community.


Gary Brubacher

Odd Jobs Co-Chair

Gary has brought his carpentry design and installation experience to the Summerfolk Festival site for over 30 years. As a volunteer and crew chief, Gary has nurtured many of our young volunteers. He looks forward to becoming more involved as a Board member and continuing to assist where possible.




Patty Sargent

Promotions Chair










Linda Van Aalst

Promotions










Rob Memery

Membership Chair

As the Artisan Coordinator of the Summerfolk Music & Crafts Festival, Rob is well respected within the artist’s community, both on and off the festival site. He has been part of the festival for over 26 years. Catch his enthusiasm in and around the Artisan Village! Making people feel welcome, listening and handling individual concerns makes Rob a perfect member of the GBFS Board of Directors.



Frank Ryan

Membership Co-Chair
Odds Jobs
Volunteer Co-Chair

Frank is a licensed tradesman who is always eager to lend a helping hand. With a strong understanding of governance and policy procedures, Frank is an excellent addition to the GBFS  Board of Directors.  His experience volunteering with many organizations will bring an understanding that will benefit the Membership and Volunteer Services Committees.


Sophie Bouchard

Volunteer Co-Chair

Sophie is an experienced financial planner with a strong history with the GBFS. As a dedicated Volunteer for many years on the security crew, Sophie has developed into an excellent Coordinator and Board Member. Her ability to remain calm and listen will be an integral part of her position on the Volunteer Services Committee.





Georgian Bay Folk Society Staff


Richard Knechtel

Artistic Director

Roxanne Davidson

Office Administrator

 


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