In Jamaican patois, ‘brawta’ means something extra.

Speaking at the Nipissing Transition House 30th Anniversary celebration in 2013.

Over the years I have volunteered with the North Bay and District Multicultural Centre. This great organization provides settlement services and more to immigrant newcomers in the district.

I also served on the board of the Nipissing Transition House from 2006 to 2024, serving as board chair for eight of those years. NTH is a 20-bed shelter for women fleeing violence.

Playing with the rest of the trombone section at our June 2024 concert.

In October 2007 , Betty Farris, a retired high school music teacher, started an instrumental class for adults who had never had a chance to learn to play a concert band instrument. By Christmas Sunday, the J.O.Y. Band (Just Older Youth) had 25 members composed of new and a few experienced players and played in church. In 2009, Neil Kennedy, also a retired music teacher, joined the band as co- director. The J.O.Y. Band now has 68 members ages 18-91! They enjoy playing for various community events including public concerts, schools, seniors’ homes and civic events. All proceeds are donated to local charities. I joined the J.O.Y. Band in 2015 and after struggling on the clarinet for 2 weeks, I switched to the trombone. With each year, as my playing and confidence improves, we take on more challenging and interesting pieces. For further information about the J.O.Y. Band contact:
Betty Farris: bettyfarris@hotmail.com.