It was exactly a year ago that Jamie Bramburger, in his role of author, visited the Arnprior Museum to discuss his second book, “Sudden Impact” on the Almonte train disaster of 1942. Jamie is of course more renown for his first tome, Go Kings Go! A Century of Pembroke Lumber Kings Hockey, published in 2018.
It was a packed house at the PMC on Saturday night as the much-awaited “Jamie Bramburger Fall Classic” delighted fans with a perfect combination of old-time hockey and warm hearts.
One of the many organizers — and longtime friend of Jamie — Fred Blackstein delivered the opening speech at centre ice. Blackstein said:
“I’m honoured and humbled to have been asked by Jamie’s family to deliver tonight’s tribute. After mourning our great loss for over half a year, tonight we celebrate Jamie Bramburger’s legacy. As we take to the ice, we remember that unmistakable voice — the one that brought every goal to life and every fan to their feet. To honour Jamie, let’s listen once more to those unforgettable moments — the iconic sound of the voice of the Lumber Kings, calling the goals we’ll never forget.”
Following Blackstein’s comments, the audience was treated to a montage of Bramburger’s many hockey calls over the years. The tribute stirred emotions for many in attendance — most notably Jamie’s wife, Barb, who shared this comment during the game:
Barb and her family also held a quiet ribbon-cutting ceremony for the opening of the newly named Jamie Bramburger Studio, which now displays a collection of Jamie’s jerseys — each now with a permanent home at the PMC.
The star of the show was undoubtedly former Lumber King and NHL great PJ Stock, who laced up for the PLK Squad and had a terrific time rekindling memories of days gone by in Hockey Town. Stock helped lead the PLK side to a 15–10 victory over the Algonquin team. The college squad benefited from a good-natured trade of some PLK players midway through the game, which helped tighten the score and prevent a runaway by the Lumber Kings.
Pembroke Mayor Ron Gervais and local MPP Billy Denault were among the crowd of red and white, all gathered to support The Jamie Bramburger Memorial Fund and The Grind.
(Written By: Richard Evans)
