Inductees

Alan Black, a singer, songwriter and drummer, is a major fixture on the local music scene. His musical career stretches over decades, mostly based in Peterborough where he is a co-owner of Maggie’s Eatery and a family man. He was described as, “the backbeat of the best blues,R&B and rock bands in this hip university town.”

He was a co-founder of Jackson Delta, which garnered two Junos nominations, and one for the BB King Lucille Award. Most recently, he has fronted Al Black and the Steady Band and its “New Orleans funk,” a mixture of Rock and Roll and Caribbean rhythms. The band won the 2013 Wire award for Roots/ Blues Band of the Year.

Alan Black has been a tireless promoter of local music, and himself has toured widely in the United States, Britain and Scandinavia. Singles include ‘Happy as a Monkey,’ together with recordings in collaboration with other groups.

Formed in the late 1950’s, the group was this area’s first nationally recognized rock group.

The Count Victors began as The Teen Lords in 1961 and became the Count Victors when Danny Harrison came on board as lead singer. Danny was backed by Bob Dixon on bass, Freddy Munro on the piano, and Terry Lathangue on drums.

This song was a big local hit in Peterborough, and managed to climb to #33 on the 1050 CHUM charts in Toronto.

Long before most of us were thinking ‘green’ and, in particular, about the importance of education as it pertains to environmental stewardship and sustainability, Jacob Rodenburg was a determined trailblazer on a mission.

A field teacher of outdoor education for more than 30 years as well as a longtime environmental education instructor at Trent University, Mr. Rodenburg is the current executive director of Camp Kawartha, an award-winning environmental education centre in Douro-Dummer Township.

Over the course of his career, Mr. Rodenburg has consistently found innovative ways to connect people to nature, as well as to empower youth as agents of change. For his continued efforts, Mr. Rodenburg has been recognized through awards from Otonabee Conservation, the Canadian Network for Environmental Education and Communication, the Ontario Society of Environmental Educators, and Ontario Nature.

Jacob Rodenburg’s vision, leadership and fundraising efforts were key to the establishment of the Camp Kawartha Environment Centre, one of Canada’s most sustainable buildings that showcases ‘green’ building techniques, and has spawned several curriculum-linked environmental programs. Since opening in 2009, the centre has welcomed and educated more than 27,000 elementary, and high school students.

Working with more than 40 organizations, Mr. Rodenburg also conceived, and founded the Pathway to Stewardship and Kinship – an innovative stewardship-fostering approach that identifies key experiences, or landmarks the community at large can deliver to children from the moment they are born, to when they graduate from high school.

In partnership with Trent University, Mr. Rodenburg was integral in the development of an environmental education training program from which more than 350 students and teachers have graduated. More recently, he was also key in the establishment of a national online environmental education program made available to faculties of education across Canada.

Having taught more than 100,000 students to date, Jacob Rodenburg frequently speaks before parent, teacher and community groups, showcasing how they can use local green spaces to connect children to nature. In addition, Mr. Rodenburg has written more than 75 articles on nature and environmental education and, together with Drew Monkman, co-authored a best-selling book entitled The Big Book of Nature Activities. More recently, Jacob Rodenburg published The Book of Nature Education, featuring no fewer than 70 sensory activities that serve to deepen, and strengthen a readers’ connection to nature.

When one combines a passion for youth’s well-being with exceptional leadership skills, the inevitable result is an individual who makes his, or her mark in a very big way.

A proud, and long-serving member of the Peterborough Kiwanis Club, his service included co-chairing the Kiwanis Music Festival. And Donald Glenn Forde was certainly no stranger to stepping up to the benefit of his community. However, when he came out of retirement in 1982 to serve as Executive Director of Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Peterborough, his service to others took on a whole new dimension.

Over the next seven years, Mr. Forde organized numerous fundraising events that helped eliminate a large mortgage eating into the organization’s annual budget. When he led the relocation of Big Brothers, Big Sisters from Simcoe Street to its current home on George Street, the move was accomplished without the need for a mortgage, resulting in fewer overhead costs. That freed up more dollars to help match a greater number of Peterborough youths, with adult role models.

Mr. Forde’s tireless efforts on behalf of young people impacted the sports arena as well. Besides volunteering his time as the inaugural president of the Peterborough Minor Hockey Council, he also gave many hours on behalf of the Peterborough Community Church Hockey League, in particular the Trinity United Church hockey program. From 1971 to 1974, Mr. Forde served as chair of the then-new Peterborough all-star minor hockey system – his involvement and contributions reflected in a display at the Healthy Planet Arena.

Throughout his adult life, Forde was an accomplished musician, playing trumpet, tuba, French horn and reed instruments. He was a member of The Bobby Kinsman Dance Band for more than four decades, as well as a member of The Hal MacFarlane Big Band and the Peterborough Civic Band.

Forde’s musical pursuits saw him play alongside the region’s big band luminaries including Del Crary, Paul Minicola and George Novotny while gracing the stages of equally legendary music venues such as Club Aragon, Brock Street Summer Gardens and The Pines in Bridgenorth. And for his executive duties with the local Federation of Musicians, Donald Glenn Forde was presented with an exclusive Lifetime Membership Gold Card.

Robert John Ainsworth, real estate agent, chiefly based in Peterborough, Ontario, has been a successful playwright and member of the Playwright Guild of Canada. Since emigrating from Birmingham, England in 1980, he has collaborated in producing musicals and children’s plays, and has written plays such as Dirty Little Secrets, Autumn Leaves and The Mouse House. As well as being a director and actor with the Peterborough Theatre Guild, he has directed musicals for the St. James Players, for Trinity United Church. He has twice taken productions to the Eastern Ontario Drama League festivals, both times winning awards as best director. The Mouse House won as well for best Canadian play and best production. He has also won Awards of Merit from the Peterborough Real Estate Board and from the City of Peterborough for his contributions. His play The Mouse House won the award for best production in the Theatre Ontario all ontario festival in Sault Ste Marie. The play won 7 awards including best director for Robert.

Living his entire life in the hamlet with the heart of gold known as Cordova Mines, could be the reason for Dan Ireland’s talent and giving spirit.  He’d been singing and playing guitar since age 12, organizing events throughout his life to better the surrounding area.

Some major accomplishment: the organization of the Crowe Valley Jamboree in aid of the local Junior Hockey Association.  He was an asset toward building a new Recreation Centre, donating many hours entertaining, and raising money for its construction.  Dan Ireland was co-founder of the Havelock Country Music Talent Show, held each year, the proceeds of which help the Hospital for Sick Children Foundation, Five Counties Children’s Centre, and local youth groups.  His own children are ‘chips off the old block’ and are carving their own place in the country music industry of the nation.  Residents of retirement homes, nursing homes, hospitals and fundraisers could always count on being entertained by Dan, and his fellow musicians.

Dan Ireland was an example of the best of a community’s heart.

Mr. Ireland passed away in 2016.

Margaret MacKelvie, teacher and community activist, was a woman with a deep, and abiding love for the magic of ‘living history.’

No one was more involved in the creation of Lang Pioneer Village.

Before Lang opened in 1967, Margaret supervised Village construction, including arranging for several buildings to be transported to the site. Over the years, she arranged ‘special days’ at Lang, as well as creating publications with a focus on Lang.

As evidence of her true devotion, Margaret served as volunteer curator from 1967 to 1995.

For her efforts, Margaret MacKelvie was awarded the Canada Commemorative Medal, an Outstanding Achievement Award from the Ontario Museum Association, and an honourary doctorate from Trent University.

A famous Rhythm & Blues singer once said she could see no difference between church and secular music, because God is present in all music. Diana McLeod’s devotion to music certainly fits that belief. As few have been able to, she’s used music to create bonds, bridge gaps and touch people.

For over 35 years, Diana worked with Trinity United Church choir, often introducing complex oratorios, public concerts and intercity exchanges to keep performance vigorous and challenging. For more than five years, she worked on a national committee to create ‘Voices United,’ the updated hymnbook that’s revitalized the music of the United Church of Canada.

Outside the church, she devotes her talents to community choirs such as Peterborough Singers, Jubillaires, Peterborough Centennial Choir and Interlink Choir, a choir of performers of different generations who come together to share and experience music. Diana also contributes to the rich history of musical theatre in Peterborough, serving as musical director, accompanist or performer in more than 30 memorable productions. Her devotion to community is further symbolized by her creative support of the Flood Relief Calendar, a devotion that went an extra mile when she posed as Miss December.

Music is a bridge, a means by which to plumb the depths of the human spirit, to share common bonds. This remains the essence of Diana McLeod, and her love of music.

Peter Brackett made his mark in the Peterborough community not only as musical artist, but as leader in raising large amounts of money for many charitable organizations and worthy causes.

An import from Herring Cove, Nova Scotia, he’s enhanced the Peterborough area since making it his permanent home.  He gained admiration from his peers with a caring heart and giving talent in aid of numerous causes.  His singer/songwriter abilities are admired, as well, by huge followings of fans who enjoy his large repertoire of traditional country tunes, and off-the-wall humour.  Peter shows particular passion for Peterborough and those requiring assurance that someone is there, someone who cares, and he shows it with each compassionate commitment he makes.

If Susan Dunkley isn’t deserving of Pathway of Fame induction as a Community Builder, quite frankly no one is.

For more than three decades, Susan has left a huge imprint on an impressive number of cherished events, social enterprises and charitable milestones, her volunteerism advancing the enrichment of a number of spheres.

Currently the chair of the Peterborough + Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce board, Dunkley is in her ninth year with that governance body. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg, particularly when it comes to the advancement of women.

With the Chamber, Dunkley helped launch the Luminary Awards to shine a spotlight on women-led business excellence. She is a founding member, and two-term president of the Women’s Business Network, and, back in the 1990s, Susan helped establish the Festival of Trees fundraiser, which raised $1 million-plus for its lengthy run for women and families fleeing violence.

Driven to never stop once she sets her sights on a need, Dunkley has brought that same determination to her own business pursuits. That dates back to her involvement with McKnight’s Flower Shoppe, and her launching of Suzi Home Maker during the pandemic, an enterprise which continues to help seniors downsize and transition from their homes to new living quarters.

The list of Susan’s contributions borders on endless – lead logistics and business liaison for the Kawartha Food Share’s Porch Pirates initiative, advisor with Green Economy Peterborough, and a four-year stint as a member of the Peterborough Remembers Committee are but a few highlights of her extensive resumé.

Through it all, the woman who many know affectionately as Suzi, has had a song in her heart aching to get out. As such, she’s a 25-year vocalist and organizer with the Peterborough Singers, and a performer with, and business manager for, the Peterborough Pop Ensemble.

As for awards and commendations, Member of the Year honours came her way from the Women’s Business Network in 1992 and 1993. Scouts Canada presented her with its Award of Commendation in 2007, and in 2015, her outstanding arts advocacy was recognized with the City of Peterborough Cultural Betterment Award.

“Suzi is well organized and is a ‘can do’ person who brings people together,” raves Peterborough Singers business manager Peg McCracken, while Gail Moorehouse of Recharge Solutions says her friend “spots unmet needs, rallies people and resources, and leaves systems in place that keep serving long after the ribbon-cutting.” These are just two voices of many in awe of Dunkley’s roll-up-your-sleeves approach to meeting challenges head on with one goal in mind – the betterment of this place we call home.

To become acquainted with Paul Wilson is to know an individual who never stops promoting, supporting and contributing to the betterment of his community in so many ways.

Paul’s cheerful and outgoing manner makes him one of the best ambassadors the Peterborough area has ever had.
His position as the first Athletic Director at Trent University was characterized by his “sports for all” philosophy resulting in a special tribute wall in the University’s Athletic Building.

But it is in recognition of Paul Wilson’s selfless involvement in the Peterborough community which is being hailed by the Pathway of Fame.

Paul’s decade of service on City Council was marked by a civility combined with a constructive sense of humour to the workings of Council.  His contribution to the well-being of Peterborough citizens is legendary. Paul Wilson left an admirable legacy of achievement to many areas of the City. He is also a skillful, bright emcee who, over many years devoted his time to countless events for non-profit organizations.

Paul’s volunteer work with Cogeco Television (now Your TV, and well over 50 broadcasts a year) is well-known and respected for the fairness and common sense he contributes to the programs in which he is involved. David Feely, as of 2016 the Manager Programming and Community Relations unreservedly states, “(Your TV) is grateful to Paul for his dedication to the organization.”

His wife Gillian’s (Inducted 2003) immersion in Peterborough theatre has seen Paul become a great supporter as well. Paul, himself has brightened the stage in plays and revues, from time to time.

In so many areas of volunteer service Paul’s readiness to give of himself to the betterment of his community is an example to be emulated and admired.

Paul P.S. (PSB) Wilson died in January 2026 in his 87th year.

“I have this idea…”

How often have we heard someone say this? Truth be known, ideas are a dime a dozen. A rare jewel is the individual with vision, fortitude and perhaps insanity to turn an idea into reality. Jack Blakely had a dream of starting a Country Music jamboree. He did such a good job of turning the idea into reality that, in the Country Music of today, the road to international stardom runs right through Havelock.

Jack had always been a respected businessman and energetic community supporter. His work with the Havelock Lions Club and numerous local fundraising projects always meant a great deal to the community. In the late ’1980’s, he began articulating the idea of a music jamboree, and proceeded to set the wheels in motion.

The early years were a learning experience – lots of trial-and-error and no small measure of risk-taking. But Jack closed his ears to naysayers and lukewarm supporters and held fast to his dream, and true enough Jack Blakely’s Havelock Jamboree became a monumental success.

It has since become one of the ‘go-to’ events in Country Music for both fans and performers around North America.

The spinoff is tremendous. With thousands of fans arriving each August, the Jamboree has become a major tourism event, providing a boon to Kawartha businesses and, in Jack’s insistence, benefiting many local service clubs and charities.

Making a dream into a reality is no easy task. There’s the big picture and, of course those nagging little things called ‘details.’ Jack Blakely has proven that concentrating on the positive and believing in the dream, is the road to achievement.

• Photo courtesy Havelock Lions Club

A wise person once said, “God is in the details.” It’s often an overlooked fact of life: the ‘little things’ that can derail an ambitious project and the faithfulness to detail is often the key to its success.

Case in point can be found in the persona of Mary Stockdale.

The Kawartha region takes great pride in hosting the Ontario Open Fiddle & Step Dance Contest each June, in Bobcaygeon. The event has become one of the area’s largest tourist draws, attracting performers and visitors literally from all over the world.

For near 30 years, Mary Stockdale served as secretary for The Ontario Open. Many would argue, without Mary’s meticulous attention to detail, The Open couldn’t have gained its present stature. Mary made her home the event headquarters and centre for correspondence, inquiries and dissemination of information.

To those familiar with her dedication, Mary was The Ontario Open

Along the way, Mary was a lifelong member of the Bobcaygeon Horticultural Society, an active member of Trinity United Church, and a founding force behind the Bobcaygeon Meals On Wheels program.

An eye for detail and passion for people: two very important ingredients in the success of any community endeavour. One needs only to ask the friends of Mary Stockdale.

Red Moncrief, born in South Monaghan, learned to play violin and piano as a child. As a young man, Red combined farming and music, gaining popularity performing at local house parties and barn dances.

During the days when there were few records, and electricity wasn’t readily available outside the city, weekly dances were a top source of entertainment. Red decided to form a dance band; ‘Red Moncrief and the Haymakers.’ The band stayed together for 22 years, garnering an immense local following by playing at area Legion halls . For three years, the band performed weekly live shows on CHEX radio.

For many longtime Peterborough area residents, Red Moncrief and the Haymakers remained the most popular, and fondly remembered musical act during the Depression, and into the War years.

Among recent generations, people might lament the passing of the pioneer spirit that created this country. Truth is, that pioneer spirit has always carried on. Today it may look or sound different, but it continues in those who revere their roots, and the land in which they’re rooted.

The work of Nick Nickels is a prime flowering of these pioneer roots.

Born into the Burnham family, whose generations go deep in settling Peterborough, Nick’s youth is steeped in a genuine love of nature. An administrative job with an airline hooked him on the beauty of the Canadian North and its people. His natural affinity for storytelling led him to a long association with the Peterborough Examiner as a photojournalist. Under Robertson Davies’ tutelage, he honed his craft and was afforded the opportunity for a ceaseless curiosity to bloom.

From 1957 to his life’s end, Nick wrote, photographed and freelanced. His stories and photos graced the pages of countless newspapers and magazines. With charm and humour, he piqued the interest of Canadians in themselves and the land upon which they lived. Nick authored 10 books on outdoor life and local history. His “Canoe Canada” remains the bible for every serious and aspiring canoeist.

The gift Nick Nickels gave to us is a timeless gift of pioneer spirit. To respect, and love the land and her inhabitants, is to be constantly enveloped in awe, and wonder.

George Novotny Sr’s short life is a prominent example that it is not how long you live, but what you accomplish while living it. Fleeing an oppressive regime in his native Czech Republic brought George Sr., his wife Sylvia and George Jr. to Peterborough in 1952. They brought with them nothing but the tremendous desire to succeed, and a tireless work ethic.

However, George Sr. did have some attributes that would help him, and his family to quickly settle in. He was fluent in seven languages, and was an accomplished pianist, accordionist, arranger and orchestrator. These abilities soon found favour with such area musical stalwarts as Bobby Kinsman, Del Crary, Buzz Buzzell, Paul “Streak” Konkle, Hugo Tapp and others.

George Novotny Sr. also had another ace up his sleeve. He had an innate ability to readily identify, and name any musical note immediately, which is commonly referred to as perfect pitch.

Bobby Kinsman was the first to utilize our inductee’s  wide-ranging musical talents. It was not long before George Sr. formed his own orchestra and began performing regularly at the Rock Haven Motor Hotel and, in the summer months at Viamede summer resort. CHEX Radio hosted his shows “Musician’s Corner” and “88 Keys,” and CHEX TV programmed a seasonal show “Music By George.”

The Novotny Orchestra played high school proms and he also presented music clinics on the history of music and piano stylings at Lakefield College School. He was also Church Organist, and Choir Director at St. John the Baptist Church.

Shock waves reverberated through the entire area when he passed at the age of 37 on November 3rd, 1961 after taking ill during a performance the night before at the Rock Haven. The relatively short period of time he contributed to the musical life of this area remains deeply imbedded in the hearts, and minds of all who were fortunate enough to have been entertained by him, or come in contact, in some way, with one of the greatest talents to ever grace this community.

As The Beatles were to ‘60’s generation, so were ‘The Dumbells’ to a generation at the first quarter of the 20th Century.  Formed to entertain troops during World War I, The Dumbbells became Canada’s first musical super-group, going on to great success as a vaudeville act following the War.

One of the founding members of The Dumbells, was Peterborough’s Morley Plunkett.  As vocalist, musician and comedic actor, Morley Plunkett was instrumental in popularizing such unforgettable standards as ‘Pack Up Your Troubles’ and ‘It’s A Long Way To Tipperary.’

You hear the expression: ‘You can dress him up but you can’t take him anywhere.’ Well, Howard Berry dressed others for decades, with skill and talent that took him everywhere.

With a knack for, and love of fashion from a young age – his father gifted him a manual sewing machine at age five – Howard could never remember a time when he wasn’t creating with fabric and experimenting with varied colour combinations.

Shortly after graduating in 1959 from a private design school in Toronto, Howard opened his own design shop in the big city. A number of different jobs in a variety of fields followed – but Howard’s love of fashion design never waned. Arriving in the Peterborough area in 1977, Howard landed a men’s wear retail job with Eaton’s, which took him back to Toronto. When he returned to Peterborough, he opened Howard Berry Designs in Charlotte Mews.

It was in 1980 that Howard’s long and fruitful association with the Peterborough Theatre Guild began with his design and creation of costumes for ‘A Doll’s House.’ Since that time, he was a constant fixture at the Rogers Street theatre. ‘The Mikado,’ ‘Le Cage Aux Follies’ and ‘Cats’ are just a few of the Peterborough Theatre Guild productions that soared thanks to his abundant talent for design.

However, Mr. Berry was no one-trick pony. In addition to costume design, he donated his time and abilities as a theatre set designer, director, production designer and painter for dozens of plays, musicals and special performances – greatly contributing to not only Peterborough Theatre Guild productions, but also to presentations at Showplace Peterborough.

Recognition has duly come Howard’s way. In 1990, the Eastern Ontario Drama League awarded him for set design followed, in 2008, with an award for Best Visual Presentation and, in 2009 an award for costume design. That same year, Theatre Ontario also recognized Howard’s work with an award for costume design. Finally, in 2015 and along with the cast and crew of ‘Twelfth Night,’ Howard accepted a Cultural Betterment Award from the City of Peterborough.

In 2017, at The Mount Community Centre, ‘Passion For Colour: A Design Retrospective’ saw Howard’s work put on public display – a show that featured many of his most spectacular theatre costumes, as well as his original paintings.

Mr. Berry passed away March 3rd, 2022 at the age of 84.

• Photo courtesy of Clifford Skarstedt, The Peterborough Examiner

Whether promoting active transportation or working to increase climate resilience through community building, Tegan Moss is in a league of her own when it comes to ensuring our world finds itself in a better place.

Trent University-educated – she attained her Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Environmental Studies – Moss was the longtime executive director of B!KE: The Peterborough Community Bike Shop before being named the executive director of Peterborough GreenUP in September 2021. Common to both roles has been Moss’ selfless dedication and leadership in fostering positive change and empowerment.

In 2011, Moss assumed the executive directorship of B!KE, a not-for-profit member-based cycling education and support organization that, since 2006, has taught bike maintenance, repair and riding skills from its George Street location in Peterborough’s downtown core.

Under Moss’ guidance, B!KE’s impact flourished with the expansion of cycling education initiatives. Via strategic collaborations, including a partnership with GreenUP, Moss spearheaded innovative programs, such as in-school cycling programs, community workshops and the Earn-A-Bike program, which provides access to a bike for those with limited means.

Moss’ leadership of B!KE didn’t go unnoticed. Among the accolades that came her way were the Wheels of Change Award from the Share The Road Cycling Coalition in recognition of her dedication to educating the next generation, and Peterborough-Kawartha Women’s Leadership Award, a nod to her influence and commitment to the advancement of her community.

As a staunch advocate of increased active transportation, Moss went above and beyond in convincing the City of Peterborough of the need to add more bike lanes to the infrastructure landscape. Speaking before city council, writing letters and campaigning, Moss did whatever it took to sell the benefits of active transportation, lobbying tirelessly for its prioritization and inclusion as part of Peterborough’s overall transportation plan.

When the executive director role with Peterborough GreenUP opened after Brianna Salmon moved on to become executive director of Green Communities Canada, Moss jumped on the opportunity, eager for the challenge of leading the organization that, since 1991, has helped countless area residents lead more healthier eco-friendly lives.

When she’s not engaging with the community to help them better address the climate crisis, Moss can often be found doing just what you would expect – riding her mountain bike or getting her hands dirty in her wild garden. She indeed practices what she preaches and, in fact, was doing so long before it became common practice to do so.

The essence of a good community Samaritan lies in translating your love of community into action, and deed. Words are easy, actions aren’t always so. Kenn Grainger is a shining example of the best community Samaritanism. In spite of growing personal limitations, Kenn seemed to find the secret to a life of vitality by giving of himself, to making the lives of others better.

Over 50 years ago, Kenn began an ongoing involvement with the ‘Elmer The Safety Elephant’ program in area elementary schools. His affection for young people carried over into a longtime association with youth hockey and baseball and a 38-year relationship with the Peterborough Figure Skating Club.

Increasing vision difficulties spurred Kenn to involvement with the CNIB and the Kiwanis Club. Of course there’s his ongoing volunteer work with United Way, Hospital Foundation, YMCA, Kinsmen Club and K-40 Club. In recognition of his community service, Kenn was presented with the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal and an Ontario Ministry of Education award. Both awards recognized his work with school children.

Although legally blind, Kenn raised money and scratched a few activities from his bucket list at the same time by doing an assisted jump from a plane, and water skiing.

When it comes to love of one’s community, Kenn Grainger has certainly ‘talked the good talk.’ But unlike so many others, he has backed those words with a lifetime of action.

Kenn Grainger passed away January 18th, 2022 two months shy of his 95th birthday.

“There is one thing a photograph must contain: the humanity of the moment.”

Charlie Gregory has certainly heeded the advice of Swiss photographer and documentary filmmaker Robert Frank.

Camera in hand and empathy flowing through his veins, his motivation has been, as he told The Examiner in February 2023, “to swing these people into having a heart,” a reference to you and me and anyone else who has seen the marginalized but remained blind to their full right to not only walk among us but live their lives on their terms.

So it is, through Gregory’s photographic essays, we have met Bongo Dave, Groundhog, The Shinny Man, One Legged Bill, Abby Red Scooter, Ottawa Bob, Quiet Ken, Big Joe Nap and The Drifter.

A self-described “watcher of folks who live on the edges of society,” Gregory has made it his selfless mission to be there for each of them and countless others – but his kindness extends well beyond the click of a camera shutter.

As the proprietor of Lumpy Bikes, Gregory habitually donates refurbished bicycles to the marginalized. But his compassion is much more up close and personal.

In the introduction to Dark Hallways Revisited and Other Lost Places In My Soul – the sequel to his 2012 published photo essay of the same name – Lynn Cummings writes “Stealthily, regularly, he checks the downtown neighbourhoods and gathering places of people who are homeless…sourcing medical and social assistance, providing rides and smokes, offering an ear for listening and a shoulder for leaning.”

But the essence of who Gregory is, and why it matters, can be found in his striking photographs. His documentation of those he has befriended brings us on a privileged journey where our eyes are opened as we stare into the eyes of his subjects. His accompanying insights speak to the soul of those his camera has frozen in time. The result is we see – really see – the homeless for who they are and always have been: people who, while lacking a home, are people all the same. Flesh and blood; dreams and hopes; interesting, quirky and full of life as they’ve experienced it.

The message of Gregory’s advocacy, both photographic and personal, is bogeymen are the stuff of fiction. Don’t dare avert your eyes. There’s nothing to be afraid of here. Never was. Never will be.

As one would guess, Gregory hasn’t come to this place at this time by accident.

In a 2018 interview with Peterborough This Week, Gregory revealed that there was no authority figure in his life after age 12, his widowed mother struggling to raise six children.

Showing “great signs of being a rascal at a very young age,” he was bailed out of the drunk tank six consecutive weekends when he was 16. Later, in the 1970s, his selling of recreational drugs brought a 13-month sentence at the Ontario Reformatory in Guelph. This sentence had a twofold effect in that it prevented him from further using soft and hard drugs, as well as introducing him to working in the prison school as both the secretary, and as a teacher with his own hand-chosen pupils, hardened by difficult lives at home.  After his marijuana grow operation for those suffering various maladies both physical and mental, was raided in Peterborough’s south end in April 2008, he was sentenced to a 45-day stay at the Central East Correctional Centre in Lindsay.

Released early and ordered to complete his sentence by working weekends at the Youth Emergency Shelter (YES) on Brock Street, Gregory was a witness to prostitution, overt drug activity and copious consumption of alcohol in the shelter’s vicinity – a firsthand experience that was an epiphany of sorts as he saw “the underbelly of Peterborough like I had never seen it before.”

Out many thousands of dollars because of his legal troubles but blessed with a family and a roof over their head, Gregory determined, then and there, to help people who “had nothing.” The following summer, he found, refurbished and donated no fewer than 74 bicycles to those in need. Lumpy Bikes is a byproduct of that experience, as is the name which satirizes the bikes he donates.

When all is said and done, Gregory’s striking photographs and from-the-heart stories put a face to the faceless, and give meaning to lives that indeed matter. He asks nothing of those who view his images and read his words, other than perhaps some long overdue reflection on ‘There but for the grace of God, go I’ and the love for others which often flows from that.

Many of those depicted in Gregory’s book have died since they were photographed – but the road to anonymity they were on has been lit by the photographic proof of their having been here with us.

“My job is to share the information I have on these people,” Gregory told This Week, adding “I don’t know why I do it but I think somewhere in there I say ‘This person needs a friend.’ So, I end up being their friend.”

And we end up being in a much better place as a result.

Peer Christensen is an influential professional artist based in Peterborough since 1985. He founded local art galleries: Williamson House Gallery, 1986-95; Hunter West Gallery, 1995-2006; Christensen Fine Art Gallery, 2006 to the present.

He founded, and still maintains the Starving Artist Framing Outlet.

He has been the featured artist in solo exhibits, 2002 and 2010 at The Art Gallery of Peterborough; and with his wife, Lori was honorary chair for the Art Gallery of Peterborough Fundraising Gala in 2011.

His art is housed in several private, and corporate art collections and has been featured in fundraising events for several organizations. He has served on the PRHC Foundation Volunteer Art Committee from the outset. He has a great track record for getting involved in projects important to the local arts community and seeing them through.

Some of his most striking work captures the changeability of nature and the impact of the industrial landscape.
According to Peterborough This Week, “Self taught in drawing and watercolour, Christensen works primarily as an oil painter, his immense classical-based talent clearly evident and his work respected well beyond the city’s borders.”

• Photo courtesy Lance Anderson, Peterborough This Week / Metroland / MYKawatha

In her native Germany, Freidel Washchuk learned needlework and weaving skills, making her one of Canada’s most compelling artists. On a world tour to promote her works, Friedel fell in love with the allure of the Canadian landscape and heritage, and moved to Canada. After working for a time in Toronto, she relocated to the Peterborough area, devoting herself to a remarkable passion as a tapestry artist.

Drawing on the natural beauty and history of the Kawarthas, Freidel Washchuk became the first weaver to serve as Artist-in-Residence at Trent University. Her tapestries have delighted patrons at galleries across Canada and Europe.

From the 1950’s to the 1990’s, if there was a theatre production or live performance in Peterborough, Mabel Smith would see it, and tell you about it. For 40 years, she served as theatre critic and performance reviewer for the  Peterborough Examiner, writing critiques that were enjoyed, and respected.

With a lifelong passion for live theatre, Mabel was a founding member of Peterborough Theatre Guild, toiling backstage for countless productions. Mabel Smith’s work as Guild archivist evolved into the acclaimed history, Peterborough Theatre Guild – The First Thirty Years.

As Peterborough’s contribution in Nashville’s music machine, Cyril Rawson established himself as one of Country Music’s most in-demand writers.

Beginning as musician and record producer in Ontario, Cyril soon devoted himself to songwriting full time.  After penning hits for Canadian stars such as Colleen Peterson and Alannah Myles, he turned his attention to the Nashville market, serving up material for such superstars as Lorrie Morgan and Tanya Tucker.

Now working as an independent writer and producer, and dividing his time between Peterborough and Nashville, Cyril Rawson has penned an amazing portfolio of 250 songs recorded by artists around the world.

When most people walk by old Peterborough buildings, they simply see old brick, wood and shingles. When Martha Kidd passes an old Peterborough building, she sees life and history. She sees the men who built the structure, the individuals and families who inhabited the building over decades, who worked and played, laughed and cried, lived and died there to mold Peterborough into what it is today.

Active in many phases of local history, Martha served as president of Peterborough Historical Society and vice-chair and research director with Peterborough Architectural Conservation Advisory Committee.

A book she co-authored with Louis Taylor, (Historical Sketches of Peterborough,) and a myriad of newspaper articles and columns are a continuing source of fascination, bringing to life so many aspects of Peterborough history. Her writing also enriches any city walking tour.

Few have contributed more to our appreciation of local history and architectural heritage than Martha Ann Kidd.

Martha Ann Kidd passed away in 2012. Image credit: MyKawartha.com

Poet, historian, genealogist, educator, philanthropist – Rosemary McConkey has worn many hats while making remarkable contributions to her community but, in the words of her nominator, it’s as a valued and compassionate friend that she has also stood out.

Professionally, Rosemary worked as an educator in various capacities and played a major role in a number of initiatives involving the education of medical practitioners and initiated a national professional standards review for physicians. In addition, Rosemary has made several contributions to the field of nutrition, her writings on the topic having found a permanent home in the Trent University Archives.

A sixth-generation family member with roots in both Peterborough and Smith-Ennismore, Rosemary comes by her passion for local history quite naturally.

A founding member of both Trent Valley Archives and the Kawartha Ancestral Association, Rosemary’s contributions as a genealogist has seen her research and record the histories of area families, including her own.

One her projects, titled Call Back Yesterday – A History of the Allen Family, is widely recognized for its investigation and research depth. A number of her published works on family histories are available as reference material at the Peterborough Public Library. Rosemary also regularly contributes to various publications.

Now well into her eighties, Rosemary has shown little to no sign of easing up on her creative urges.

Just last year, she contributed in a very big way as part of a team that produced a major theatrical production on Peterborough area family history. The same year saw the Peterborough Historical Society bestow upon Rosemary its F.H. Dobbin Heritage Award for her published work on local family genealogies.

Country Music fans in Peterborough area knew Stu McCue as a topnotch entertainer; what many don’t know, is the depth of his diversified talent.

A professional musician for more than 30 years, Stu McCue shared stages with many Country legends. However, he is equally talented as a landscape painter, and teacher. To better share a love of his heritage, Stu became a Certified Instructor of Native Languages and Culture in 1977.

Stu McCue is perhaps best known for his boundless generosity towards others. For years, he performed at local seniors’ residences and nursing homes on a weekly basis. He continually encouraged young talent by giving them an opportunity to perform with him. If there’s a local cause or charity in need of fundraising, Stu was always there to help.

This Pathway inductee possesses one of the most familiar faces in Canadian broadcasting. His career offers proof that to be a trusted and recognized presence in broadcast news for close to 40 years, means he has continuously done the right things well.

Wally Macht began his broadcasting career in Saskatchewan in 1959, soon becoming Western Canada reporter for the CTV Network. In 1968, he moved to Toronto as national reporter and backup anchor to Harvey Kirck. Wally served as CTV’s weekend news anchor for 11 years and, in 1977 was elevated to news anchor for Canada AM.

In 1988, Wally looked north and landed in Peterborough as news anchor and Vice President of Information at CHEX Radio and Television, overseeing major updates in news-gathering, tech and presentation – including overseeing  the installation of a state-of-the-art newsroom.

Now, an integral part of the Peterborough community, he utilizes his broadcast skills to assist several local projects, most notably the Heart Catheter Fund, and the Trent Valley Archives.

As journalist, he demonstrates an uncanny news sense and capacity for hard work; as news executive, he demonstrates the rarest of talents; the ability to motivate, without intimidation.

Was it chance they taught at two local high schools? Coincidence they directed plays at each? No matter! Destiny played a part in their eventual union and thereby carried a mutual love of live theatre over their lifetime.

John and Nora Martyn have devoted their lives to various roles, comprising the production of musical and dramatic theatre. Their co-directed productions at Peterborough Theatre Guild have been met with much success.
John and Nora’s strength as directors reflects an ability to make the most out of the time, and resources available. Their direction, as good coaches in sport, is putting together the best team possible, and ensuring specific attention is paid by everyone to the meaning behind the words in the script.

Such investment of time, energy and encouragement combine to create the various nuances of a Martyn stage production.

• photo courtesy of The Peterborough Theatre Guild