Inuvik (Apr 28/06) - Inuvik said goodbye to one of its local songsters last week with a live music event at the Legion.

The End of the Road music festival society hosted the open mike jam session on Friday night.

James Boraski performed some of his own music for the crowd at the Legion on Friday night. Boraski was one of the musicians who took to the stage that night for the "Sing in the Spring" fundraiser for the End of the Road Music festival society.- Dez Loreen/NNSL photo

James Boraski works for Fisheries and Oceans Canada and had been playing music in Inuvik for the past year and a half.

He is now on his way to Yellowknife.

The event was an appropriate farewell for Boraski. He said he was sad to be leaving Inuvik, but knows the music scene will be left in capable hands.

"There is so much musical talent here. It's great," said Boraski.

Other local musicians took the stage to say their goodbyes to Boraski.

Ray Massey has played with Boraski for the past year and a half and said he will be missed, but he won't be too far away.

"Working with James has been quite enjoyable. We had lots of fun.

"Sure we're going to miss him, but he'll be back. We'll see quite a bit of him," said Massey.

Mike Whiteside, Jonathan Churcher and Bob Mumford started the show off with an entertaining set.

Whiteside said his experience with Boraski has always been professional and he has a unique style of music.

"Some people in the music scene are going to have to step up to fill his shoes when he leaves," said Whiteside.

Craig Fudge was also one of the singers who entertained Legion-goers with his rendition of a few classic Johnny Cash numbers.

Local coffeehouse veterans Razzamajazz were also in the mood for some lounge acts. They provided a good sound to kick off the weekend.

The event also served as the first fundraiser held by the End of the Road Music festival society, with raffle draws for people in attendance.

Boraski said it was a great going away party because he got to play with some of the people who welcomed him into the community.

"I hope people continue to support music in the community. This past weekend was great," said Boraski.