Inductees

There’s a danger in our long term care system that the dignity and individuality of many seniors can be overlooked. Larger elements of care are provided, but attention to smaller consideration is too time-consuming. Often, its attention to ‘small stuff’ that provides the most dignity for those who seem forgotten.

Heather and John Collins are symbolic of countless volunteers who add so much to quality-of-life by ‘sweating the small stuff’ for those who can’t.

For over 25 years, Heather and John volunteered their time and friendship at Extendicare facilities in Peterborough and Lakefield. It’s faithfulness to ‘small things’ that make their contributions so meaningful. They’ve given of their time to accompany residents to physicians and hospital appointments as well as shopping trips and social outings, often using their own vehicle. The prospect of an outing for someone who is alone with mobility problems can be so daunting the chance to interact is often missed. John and Heather made a career of making certain no one is left out. Their faithfulness to little things includes bringing home-baked treats when they visit. They cheerfully repair small objects and do sewing repairs. John makes wood, and coloured-glass ornaments to brighten residents’ rooms, and Heather provides manicures for the ladies.

These are simple things, but are things that add so much to a sense of dignity.

Usually, when a caring citizen does volunteer work, it’s for one or two causes and for a reasonable period of time.

Joe Whetung never put much stock in that approach.

For nearly 60 years, Joe volunteered his time, talent and energy to more than 30 causes and organizations. For Joe Whetung, volunteering was a lifelong commitment.

Joe was born with cerebral palsy. However, rather than allow it to become a deterrent, Mr. Whetung used it as a basis for observation. He couldn’t play sports, but he watched the coaches – and learned to be an exceptional coach himself. He also became a student of organizational structure and procedure. Along with his day jobs working with numbers, Joe became an invaluable addition to many organizations.

It’s an abiding truth that the success of any group lay in its structure, and management – ensuring that ‘the numbers’ are right. The organizations and projects that have benefited from Joe’s talents and dedication are many, and varied. Benefactors of Joe’s expertise were the Fair Boards of Peterborough and Lakefield, parks and recreation committees, Scouts Canada, O.R.C.A., men’s softball and the Salvation Army Christmas Hamper Program, among many others.

An enthusiastic student of First Nations’ history, Joe’s ability to trace the Whetung family back several centuries, was stuff of legend.

“Use what you have, to do what you can” serves as a sum of Joe Whetung’s volunteer philosophy. For Joe, volunteering was a way to do good, improve lives and make friends.

Mr. Whetung passed away December 13th, in 2022.

By looking back we can, most times, see the direction our future is taking. Such is a gift few can claim to share as has Jean Murray Cole with her enthralling compositions.

Our community is certainly richer for her penning nine books, including three Peterborough township histories, plus a host of papers that fill her dossier to date. Jean Murray Cole is an acknowledged expert on the Strickland family; Samuel Strickland, Catherine Parr Traill, Susanna Moodie, and their siblings who remained in England. The Stricklands mean much to the area because they wrote and recorded their experiences in its raw, evolving youthful years.

Jean Murray Cole holds an honours degree from Trent University, the Ontario Medal for Good Citizenship, and the F.H. Dobbin award for her book, ‘Sir Sandford Fleming: His Early Diaries.’ Many of her manuscripts and research papers have been donated to Trent University Archives.

• Photo courtesy of The Peterborough Examiner

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.

If one were to list the awards and nominations that have been bestowed upon author Drew Hayden Taylor, one would best be advised to set aside a fair amount of time.

Each honour speaks to the acclaim Drew has wholly earned, starting in 1992 with the prestigious Chalmer’s Award for his play Toronto at Dreamer’s Rock to his receiving the Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Award in 2012. Drew has well earned the acclaim that has come his way, having traveled the globe to speak to issues that reflect, celebrate and, yes, interfere in the lives of Canada’s First Nations people.

Truth be known, labeling the proud Ojibwa from Curve Lake first an author fails to speak to the creative tour de force Drew has been, and continues to be. Add theatre artistic director, playwright, journalist, lecturer, television scriptwriter, radio broadcaster and documentary director to the mix and you get a truer picture of the breadth of his boundless talent and passion.

Equally adept at writing fiction and non-fiction books as well as short stories and plays, Drew has penned 30-plus works. His first novel, The Night Wanderer: A Native Gothic Novel, was published in 2007; in 2010, Motorcycles and Sweetgrass saw him short-listed for the Governor General’s Award for Fiction. Most recently, Take Us To Your Chief And Other Stories – a collection of Native-themed science fiction stories – was published and, just this year, his new play Crees In The Caribbean came to fruition.

Despite the many roads down which his life journey has taken him, Drew has never forgotten his roots.

In 2011, his play Berlin Blues was staged at Millbrook’s 4th Line Theatre. In March, 2018 Cottagers and Indians, Drew’s play about people at odds over the harvesting of wild rice on Pigeon Lake, received rave reviews when it was produced at Toronto’s Tarragon Theatre. And in May of that year Drew hosted, and performed at the Gord Downie and Chanie Wenjack Fund Benefit Concert staged at Peterborough’s Market Hall.

In the television realm, Drew has made equally significant contributions, including co-creating and writing for the comedy series Mixed Blessings. In 2007, ‘In A World Created By A Drunken God’ – a made-for-TV movie he penned based on his play of the same name, was nominated for three Gemini Awards. In 2011 and again the following year, Drew wrote the script for the National Aboriginal Achievement Awards.

Having served as writer-in-residence at the University of Michigan, the University of Western Ontario, Ryerson, Wilfrid Laurier University and the University of Luneburg in Germany, Drew has made giving back a priority, sharing his insights and talent to the great benefit of young people.

• Photo courtesy of Clifford Skarstedt, The Peterborough Examiner

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

Serena Ryder – something about her name even hints of lurking greatness.

As a youngster, it was evident she was destined to reach goals to which others could only dream. Quite possibly, Serena’s years growing up in Millbrook, Ontario gave her a certain kind of stability found only in a small-town setting. It is equally evident that even while attaining the success she has already enjoyed, she retains a great deal of admiration and respect for the place from which she came.

During her years at PCVS she had the opportunity to hone her craft along-side Thousand Foot Krutch and Three Days Grace. Her songwriting became a vehicle for her expressive vocals and it was not long until industry and audience alike began to take note. Releases such as “Just Another Day,” “If Your Memory Serves You Well,” “Weak In The Knees,” and “Is it OK” solidified her popularity.  Awards – including prestigious Junos – began to reward Serena’s songwriting/vocal gifts.

It all happened so quickly that the resultant promotion and appearance whirlwind took its toll with a bout of clinical depression. Serena fought it with a determined response and in overcoming it, her works took on deeper, meaningful emotions which only resulted in gaining more appreciative audience attention. Then along came her hit “Stompa,” and with it international stardom.  Deservedly more Junos followed.

A highlight of a busy 2015 was her singing the Pan/Para Am Games official song, “Together We Are One.”
Serena Ryder never forgot her Millbrook roots and Millbrook did not forget her either.  In fact notification is given everyone approaching the town with “home of Serena Ryder” being added to the identifying Millbrook highway sign.

Serena actively supports numerous local and special causes – Young Artists in Haiti, Save the Children Canada, Peterborough Music Fest and Five Counties Children’s Centre.

• photo courtesy Clifford Skarstedt, Peterborough Examiner

There are those who just give of themselves to the community without seeking public acclaim for their efforts. Jim Coghlan is certainly one who fit that description. His volunteer work has taken him to many corners of this area over the years.

Well past retirement age, one might expect Jim to have slowed down a little, but fortunate for us such was not the case. His volunteer work included service as President of the St. Joseph’s at Fleming Foundation Board, Past Chair of the St. Anne’s Church Parish Council, a member of the church’s Volunteer Screening Council and is a Lector and Eucharistic Minister. He was also a Director of the Kawartha Men’s Social Club.

Jim Coghlan has held several prominent positions in both the public and private sectors of his working life in which health care and amateur sports have been his focus. Jim was a founding member of the Peterborough Region CAT Scan Fund, as well as the Peterborough Hospitals Lottery and the Festival of Trees.

Sports have always been of keen interest to him, both as an active player, coach and leader. In 1986 he served as Chair of Logistics for the Ontario Summer Games when the City hosted them, and again in 1992 Jim was the Ceremonies Chair.

The event dearest to his heart just may have been the highly successful Arborough Games of which he was Founding Chair. The games were an International sports and cultural exchange between Peterborough and Ann Arbour, Michigan. Each City hosted over 1000 young 10 to 16-year-old athletes in 10 different sports. What a tremendous accomplishment that was, and no wonder one would never forget it!

All of these activities and more brought Jim Coghlan the 1985 Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year Award, and he can boast 2 Peterborough Civic Awards as well.

• Photo courtesy PRHC Foundation

Any mention of Peggy Lockwood’s name in the Peterborough regional arts community is greeted with awe and reverence, which is due to such a composite, dynamic personality.  Peggy Lockwood is a major contributor to the vibrant dramatic life of our community.  In fact, it could be stated she’s creativity personified.

Author, director, actor, drama teacher; she’s involved in most every facet of Peterborough’s artistic life.  The Peterborough Theatre Guild is a beneficiary of her varied talents. A winner of the Best Supporting Actress award, Peggy is even known to join as a participant of numerous chorus parts in musicals.

Peggy is also a published writer of children’s books, as well as a writer of religious plays.  Her cherished focus is to utilize her many talents to teach a better, more moralistic way of life – especially to youth.  This community is better for having her in our midst, and contributing her many talents within, and without.

Bravo, Peggy!

There’s an old Celtic saying; the greatest sin is the unlived life. This individual’s life is a true mosaic of experiences, events, relationships and dedications to his belief. It could never be said Father Bernard Heffernan is guilty of an unlived life.

An ordained priest since the early ‘60’s, this son-of-Douro worked as labourer, plumber, truck driver and RCAF flight lieutenant. His parishes existed in quintessential small-town Ontario, but often his congregation was the world.

Father Heffernan was an innovator in the use of mass media to spread his message of faith. He penned, and produced the widely-distributed TV series ‘The Church’ as well as numerous radio programs and series.  Among the shows he hosted and produced was ‘Gospel Gold,’ airing Sunday evenings at 6pm on CKQM ‘Country 105’ radio in 1987. A similar program aired on 910 CKLY Radio in Lindsay. He crafted an influential, and well-received book called ‘The Future Vision of the Christian Mass Media Mission.’

Whether interviewing celebrities such as Garth Brooks, spending time listening to prisoners in local jails, or seniors in nursing homes, he always held fast to the belief that each person is valued in God’s eyes. Regardless of his many accomplishments in mass media, for Father Bernard Heffernan, faith is passed on one soul at a time. As well, it can be said, one note at a time. Ahead of most of the major Peterborough Petes or Lakers Lacrosse games, ‘Father Hef’ would often be seen outside the entrance of The Peterborough Memorial Center, playing his fiddle and spreading the Good Word.

And especially, on St. Patrick’s Day.

Father Heffernan went to be with the Lord in 2016, at age 81.

The 15 years Sylvia Sutherland devoted to being Mayor of Peterborough will, in the main be considered her greatest legacy to the community.

Sylvia received a grounding in journalism, beginning at the Orillia Packet and Times and, later at the Toronto Telegram where she and Isabelle Bassett became good friends having joined the newsroom at the same time. Sutherland graduated from Ryerson with a diploma in Journalism in 1963, and from Trent University in 1973.

When Sylvia, and husband David Sutherland lived in Norwood in the late 1960’s, Sylvia ran for town council and was elected. David Sutherland was the founding President of Fleming College, to which Sylvia contributed much as well. Her engaging personality and people skills attributed to her hosting a very popular afternoon CHEX TV program.

In all this activity, Sylvia Sutherland developed a love for Peterborough and area – so much so, she considered it her “adopted” home. It was her energy and popularity that inspired her to successfully run for Mayor of Peterborough. Preserving the character of the City through the saviour of many of its landmark buildings from the wrecking ball, was just one of her visionary accomplishments. Sutherland  saved the historic Cox terrace on Rubidge Street, and helped preserve the Peterborough Armouries by attracting government monies for that cause.

During the “great flood” of 2004, Her Worship Mayor Sutherland showed stalwart leadership and executive skills of a person worthy of that position. And who will ever forget the resultant “Calendar Girls” fundraiser? Sylvia championed the Market Hall restoration, a proud symbol of our City. Hutchinson House on Brock Street stands as part testament to our historical past through her efforts.

Much of our City’s stature owes its existence to Sylvia Sutherland who saw, in its past, its future attractiveness.
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Without question, he’s one of the most talented and multi-faceted musicians ever to make his home in Peterborough.

Bud Sullivan took to the saxophone early in life and never looked back. Under the tutelage of renowned Belgian musician, Ben Vereecken, Bud began playing with the famed Huntsville Band, and at Bigwin Inn. His talents quickly impressed vacationing musicians, leading to an opportunity of a lifetime.

In 1926, Bud began an eight year tour with the immortal John Philip Sousa Marching Band. After Sousa’s death, Bud went to work with the CBC and the Toronto Symphony. Also at this time he began a new, and fulfilling stage in his life; teaching music.

Opening his music store on Charlotte Street, with wife Dorothy, Bud shared his gift of musical genius with more than a generation of young Peterborough musicians, including Bobby Kinsman and Daniel Rubinoff. Testament to Bud’s teaching talent is the fact that several of his students went on to graduate from the illustrious Juilliard School of Music.

Bud Sullivan: a musician of considerable talent and creativity who maintained a love for music, and for people who made music.

The essence of a true visual artist is to take the particular, and make it universal. The concept goes a long way in explaining the appeal of Eddie LePage’s artistry.

Completely self-taught, Eddie’s creative spirit embraces the beauty of the natural world, and finds an immediate kinship. Popularity of his portraits attests to the positive response of this kinship. Eddie’s works hang in private, and public galleries around the world. As well, his portraits of Ojibwa culture, past and present, found ready acceptance.

His talents are recognized by such groups as Ducks Unlimited, The Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters, and The Bradford Exchange.

For over a quarter century, Eddie made the Kawarthas his home, not only for this region’s incredible natural beauty but for the sense of community he’s found. With great generosity, he shares his time and talents to aid numerous community causes, including Heart & Stroke Society, The M.S. Society, the YWCA, and Peterborough Regional Health Centre.

Creativity, Nature and Community are three words shining through Eddie LePage’s art, and life.

• photo courtesy Clifford Skarstedt, The Peterborough Examiner

(1938-1987)

Born and raised in Peterborough, Jack Bailey became one of Canadian Country Music’s most memorable performers. His talent as both vocalist and writer formed the basis for a solid recording career. As well, Jack’s natural affinity for people made him a welcome guest on stage, in clubs and on television across Canada and many parts of the United States.

Always one to be there when help was needed; Jack gave generously of his time and talent to support a variety of local causes, most notably, the M.S. Society, Easter Seals Campaign and area hospitals.

His untimely death from a heart attack at age 49, places Jack Bailey in a category of ‘Done too soon’ with so much more he could have given. He performed in the area for 35 years.

There seems a point in an entertainer’s life when the call of home and community overtakes the lure of the road. People who create a life, and roots, become more important than heading out on the road to a new town, a new audience.

Make no mistake, Del Haddlesey still loves his music but benefiting others now occupies the driver’s seat in his life.

Many will remember Del Haddlesey from the ‘salad days’ of Peterborough music in ’60’s and ’70’s. Whether at Brock Ballroom, Queens Hotel, Marmora or Madoc Hotels, Del captivated audiences over many years of Saturday nights. In the 1970’s, he went on the road to share stages with the likes of Waylon Jennings and Chubby Checker. As time went by, and life imposed its dictates, Del returned to his Peterborough roots.

Switching gears, Del concentrated on making a difference on behalf of people who needed him in the Kawarthas. His date-book soon filled with events in aid of a veritable ‘who’s who’ of community endeavours. With his group, ‘Father Time,’ he worked in aid of local food banks, area Legions, the Heart and Stroke Foundation, the Cancer Society, many family benefits and an impressive list of community projects.

Dedication to community through time, talent, energy and selflessness is the hallmark of an exceptional human spirit. That’s Del Haddlesey.

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.

Audrey Caryi resonated throughout Lang Pioneer Village, to which she devoted her artistic talents, for an incredible 34 years.

An honours graduate of Toronto’s Art College in 1969, she began her long tenure with the historic village in 1983. Audrey’s career as Museum Specialist and Exhibit Artist has enhanced the life of the Village, and its displays, to a degree rarely equaled elsewhere. Audrey Caryi’s drawings give life to the many artifacts displayed throughout the Village. She developed conceptual drawings for a number of reproduction buildings that were added to the Museum grounds over the years. Her work also engaged her in the design and staging of numerous exhibits.

It is safe to say that Audrey Caryi’s life, and that of Lang Pioneer Village were almost one and the same. However, while she did devote talent to the many areas of the Village, she also did a variety of work as a freelance artist. This included calligraphy work for the Campbellford Memorial Hospital, and also updating names and illustrating pages in the Book of Remembrance for the City of Peterborough.

Audrey was an enthusiastic community supporter of Warkworth and area cultural Boards and festivals, and was one of 17 original artists who started the Colborne Artists Cooperative in Colborne, Ontario. Her accomplishments are far too many to list here, but there is no doubt that no one was more dedicated to ensuring that activities at Lang Pioneer Village were historically accurate and true to the Museum’s vision, mission and mandate.

Tragically and all too soon, Audrey passed away as the result of a horse riding accident in April, 2017.

Joe Corrigan, the Museum’s Manager says it so well, “we are all the richer for having had Audrey Caryi as part of our lives.”

The Order of Canada was established to pay tribute to Canadians who exemplify the highest qualities of citizenship and whose contributions enrich the lives of their contemporaries. It’s also a perfect description of the life of Dennis Sweeting.

A highly decorated war hero, Dennis pursued careers as actor, writer and theatre administrator before coming to Lindsay. It’s here he became the driving force and catalyst in the successful enterprises of Kawartha Summer Theatre, and revitalization of Academy Theatre.

Displaying those high qualities of citizenship, Dennis also served in several political and community capacities, most notably Reeve of Lindsay and Warden of Victoria County.

A man of considerable warmth and commitment, his contributions to cultural life in his community and that of Canada led to his being named to the Order of Canada. Few better personify the criteria of that Order than does Dennis Sweeting.

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.

Glen Walker was hit with the theatre bug in Brantford in 1967 and, to the immense benefit of the Peterborough Theatre Guild since 1970, a cure was never found.

During his close to 50 years with the multi-awarded theatre company housed on Rogers Street in East City, Glen served in virtually every capacity, including the holding of positions on the Executive, and the Play Selection Committee.

As the theatre’s property manager, Glen was involved in several building improvement initiatives such as the installation of a new heating, ventilation and air conditioning system and a new metal roof, as well as the addition of a wheelchair-accessible washroom.

Both onstage and behind the scenes, Glen’s love of, and commitment to community theatre was always abundantly clear. Along with his direct involvement in several productions as both actor and director, he has served offstage as a sound designer, and makeup artist.

Accolades for Glen’s talents have come in the form of a trio of Eastern Ontario Drama League Awards (EODL) – Best Sound Design (1981), Best Actor (1985) and Best Cameo (1989). Glen was also recognized by the Province of Ontario for 30-plus years of volunteer service, and was the recipient of two Civic Awards for Cultural Achievement from the City of Peterborough.

Already the recipient of an award for Outstanding Service from the Peterborough Theatre Guild, Glen was recently made a Lifetime Member of the community theatre group.

Mr. Walker passed away in March, 2024.

It’s very difficult, if not impossible, to not include the descriptor ‘pioneer’ in any review of the life work of Dr. Garry Humphreys.

As the Medical Officer of Health for Peterborough City and County from 1984 to 1986, and again from 1991 to 2008, Dr. Humphreys advocated for, and implemented, several significant public health initiatives which continue to serve us well to this day.

Consider, for example, that long before the advent of COVID-19 – the most serious public health crisis in world history – Dr. Humphreys worked as assistant vice-president of clinical trials at Connaught Laboratories from 1986 to 1991. That experience fueled his lifelong push of the benefits of vaccine use.

In 1991, when Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health issued a report outlining the impacts of cigarette smoke on both smokers and non-smokers, Dr. Humphreys jumped into action, eventually convincing local elected officials to implement a bylaw that protected residents from the effects of second-hand smoke. That bylaw paved the way for subsequent wider legislation that to this day prohibits smoking in bars, restaurants and other public spaces.

Those who today receive health care services from nurse practitioners also owe Dr. Humphreys a debt of gratitude.

He lobbied the provincial government to fund nurse practitioner-led clinics that were established in rural communities such as Havelock, Keene and Curve Lake First Nation in 2008.

Earlier, in 2004, Dr. Humphreys organized education sessions for local physicians on diagnosing occupational health hazards, including asbestos exposure. That led to his lobbying Queen’s Park to establish occupational health clinics, enabling the mass screening of workers and their family members.

In times of crisis, Dr. Humphreys was equally relentless. In 2004, when flood waters ravaged Peterborough, he worked closely with the Red Cross to ensure kits containing face masks and cleaning supplies were widely distributed. Further, Dr. Humphreys secured the funding for those supplies.

Beyond the public health realm, Dr. Humphreys’ community service included his years as a proud Rotarian, serving a term as club president. In that capacity, he worked closely with Camp Kawartha, ensuring wonderful summer experiences for children from families with limited resources. Another benefactor of Dr. Humphreys’ voluntarism was Prince of Wales Public School, where he prepared food for the Peterborough school’s breakfast program.

While those contributions were visible for many to see, Dr. Humphreys’ kindness also shone through in less heralded, but no less life changing acts. Fueled by a desire to ensure that young people are able to attend or visit something on their wish list, Dr. Humphreys often accompanied students to plays and musicals in Toronto, and also to Niagara Falls.

Dr. Humphreys passed in late 2019. However, even in retirement his fierce commitment to public health never wavered. Earlier that same year, he spoke at Peterborough Public Health’s Back to the Future event, where he lauded the role vaccines have to play in our wellbeing, and in particular, their importance in the eradication of polio.

Allan Harding’s fundraising ventures have placed him well above others – literally.

On a March weekend over the course of 16 years, Allan took to the roof of the Canadian Tire store, initially at the former George Street location and then at the store off Lansdowne Street. His ‘Al On The Roof’ fundraiser not only brought the Easter Seals Society close to $150,000 but also greatly raised awareness of the organization’s mandate and many associated programs.

Crediting his father Art with instilling in him a strong desire to help others, Allan has a self-professed soft spot for children in need. When one youngster had an urgent need for a wheelchair accessible van, Allan spent 48 hours on a boat in extremely cold weather, joined by the boy’s father. ‘Al In The Boat,’ as it was coined, raised $1,400.

Going back much earlier, in 1987, Allan perched himself on the roof of the former Red Oak Inn in downtown Peterborough, bringing in money for the emergency department at the then Peterborough Civic Hospital. In addition, his feet firmly planted on the ground, Allan has raised money for Canadian Tire’s Jumpstart initiative that ensures children have equal access to sports and physical activity.

Unselfish in the extreme, Allan has always been quick to give credit to others who have supported his efforts. In October 2011, when Relly On The Roof – initially a fundraiser for the United Way – debuted atop The Brick, a very surprised Paul Rellinger was visited by Allan who made the climb and took the time to offer his warm support, offering the novice survival tips in the process.

In 2012, Allan returned to the roof of Canadian Tire one more time, again to the benefit of Easter Seals, but that was the last time as the physical strain of his rooftop sojourn had proven difficult. Other awards that have come his way, include Rotary’s Paul Harris Fellowship Award for exceptional community service, and Easter Seals’ Spirit of Giving Award.

How far will one guy go to raise money for a most worthy cause?

In the case of Ted Dawes, it’s not how far. It’s how high, how often. Although there is an aspect of how far involved here, as well. Confused? Read on.

A longtime employee of Minute Maid in Peterborough, Dawes took to the roof of Morello’s Independent Grocer in May 2024 for a 20th time, raising funds for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada, every penny brought in destined for research.

Supported by his work union, United Food and Commercial Workers International, Dawes’s annual long weekend rooftop stay had brought in some $400,000 over the years prior.

Why Morello’s? Simple. Holly, his wife of 39 years, is a longtime employee of the east Peterborough grocery store, while owners Dave and Kim Morello have been, and remain, staunch supporters of Dawes’ fundraising efforts.

In 2009, Dawes deviated from his Ted on the Roof script, opting to undertake Ted on the Road and walking from Parliament Hill in Ottawa to Toronto’s Sick Kids Hospital. In addition, Ted at Your Door has seen Dawes go door-to-door for donations, while Ted on the BBQ has seen him flip burgers and the like for the cause that remains near and dear to his heart.

Back in 2011, when Relly on the Roof took flight atop The Brick as a fundraiser for the United Way initially and later for Habitat for Humanity, newbie ‘roofer’ Paul Rellinger was quick to praise Dawes for blazing the roof fundraising path along with Al Harding, who raised money for the Heart and Stroke Foundation for years prior from his perch atop Canadian Tire.

“The best ideas are stolen…and I stole this one,” admitted Rellinger, crediting both men for their dedication to their respective causes, and for voicing their support of the new kid on the roof.

While Ted should be applauded for his years of roofing for an important cause, he’d no doubt shrug such praise off, noting his greatest achievement has been, and remains, his and Holly’s raising of Corey, Chris and Caitlyn, coupled with their enduring love for their grandchildren, Jayde and Sophia.

Canada is a country of immigrants. In a true sense, we’re all visitors. We, our parents or ancestors, have come from far away, from homelands that lost hope for the future. The Kulla Brothers are a shining example of those who adopted Canada as their home, Peterborough as their city, and made both a better place in which to live.

Jim, Mike and Eddie Kulla fled Communist Albania at the height of the Cold War. They faced grave physical danger, both to themselves and family members left behind, to seek freedom in a new land. The brothers settled in Peterborough, determined to explore the fullness of their potential. They worked hard to establish themselves as good corporate citizens and enthusiastic and caring members of the community. Many longtime Peterborough residents and visitors have fond memories of the Miss Diana Restaurant in Market Plaza, the Miss Diana Motor Hotel on Lansdowne and, more recently, Lakeside Dining in Lakefield.

By nature, the Kulla Brothers are warm and outgoing and – by being true to their nature – became unofficial ambassadors on behalf of Peterborough and Kawarthas. Through their generosity and charm, they put a human face to our City, and area, for thousands of residents and visitors.
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For more than three decades, no charity concert in Peterborough would be complete without the familiar figure of Johnny Driscoll. An avid Country Music enthusiast, he’d give unselfishly of his time and energy to organize and promote concerts in aid of many worthy fundraisers.

With a deep sense of commitment to Peterborough’s performing arts community, Johnny Driscoll was an early and vocal proponent of establishing a city performance centre. He was also a grassroots supporter of the Pathway of Fame.

To be a true community Samaritan, it seems necessary to do two things: robustly speak out regarding important causes, and provide quiet comfort and assistance to distressed individuals, without fanfare. These two qualities were personified with grace, and dignity in the Reverend Floyd Howlett.

Reverend Howlett began his life of commitment protesting the treatment of Japanese Canadians during World War II. That led to work as a United Church missionary in Japan.

Returning to Canada, he became passionately involved with the Peterborough branch of Project Ploughshares, campaigning for world peace and disarmament. Floyd and his wife, Sheila were selfless supporters of the New Canadians Centre, even opening their home to needy refugee families. Floyd shared his dedication and energy with the Social Planning Council of Peterborough, Kairos and Natwin program, which twins Peterborough with the northern Ontario reserve of Mishkegogamang.

The life of Reverend Floyd Howlett is proof that, although the distance between words and actions may be great, the journey is well worth the travel…

Reverend Howlett passed away the year following his induction, in 2003.

A faithful champion of the Canadian Armed Forces and veterans long after his 1970 retirement from the Royal Canadian Air Force as a Captain, Robert Ough has never stopped serving.

With decades of volunteer service in Peterborough and area – he moved here in 1982 with his wife Margaret – Robert has maintained a leading presence with the Air Force Association, the Royal Canadian Legion, the Royal Canadian Military Institute and the Peterborough United Services Institute. Local events held annually to honour veterans have benefited greatly from his involvement.

After leaving the Armed Forces, Robert spent 47 years in the helicopter industry, earning a life membership in the Helicopter Association of Canada. Still, as successful as he was in business, he never forgot his Military roots.
As a member of the 428 Peterborough Wing Air Force Association, Robert was one of those responsible for the restoration of the 1950 F-86 Sabre jet at Riverside Park in Peterborough. In June 2009, fully restored, the jet was returned to the park – a consecrated memorial to the memory of all airmen from the Peterborough district. While that was a much publicized effort, it is Robert’s unheralded efforts on the part of veterans that sets him apart as he regularly visits with them, advocates on their behalf and drives them to and from events.

Robert’s service extends well beyond the military realm, a prime example being his work with a 12 Step Program as well as his extensive service and contributions as a Mason for more than 50 years.

In 2012, Robert was awarded the Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Medal for his dedicated service to his peers, his community and Canada as a whole.

A wise individual once defined life as what happens to you while you’re making other plans. Rarely has that observation hit home with more devastating clarity than in the lives of Syd, and Pamela Birrell.

A life in music and raising a family seemed to have been the original plan. Pamela found acclaim as a gifted coloratura soprano and shared her love for music through teaching. Syd became well-known as organist at Lakefield College, and Murray Street Baptist Church. He’s also a founder of the nationally-renowned Peterborough Singers.

Then life changed the plan.

In 1996, Pamela was diagnosed with breast cancer and, while recovering from chemotherapy, their son James was diagnosed with neuroblastoma.

Syd and Pamela’s lives changed forever. They became unceasing advocates on behalf of neuroblastoma research and how a family can retain a sense of humanity while going through the struggle of terminal cancer.

James, sadly, died in 2001. However, thanks to the Birrell family, his story spread around the world, inspiring thousands. James’ short life shines like a bright star in the often dark sky of cancer. Today the James Birrell Neuroblastoma Research Fund is a world leader in cancer research.

Perhaps when the final plan is written, the greatest accomplishment will be how Syd and Pamela, Ben and Rebecca can go through hell, and emerge with their humanity intact.