Inductees

To the casual observer, sport is a form of exercise, competition, and entertainment. The primary object is to win but, for those feeling an affinity for athletic pursuits, the word ‘winning’ can take on a wide spectrum of meaning. For Paul Brown, sport is a way of touching the soul.

For close to 50 years, Paul Brown has been deeply involved in the discipline of Judo. He’s a 4th degree black belt and has spent countless hours teaching Judo to young people in the Peterborough area. Significantly, that teaching experience ran parallel to a longtime relationship with the Kawartha-Haliburton Foster Parents Association. With his wife Linda, Paul has been a foster parent for more than 25 years and has used sports to enhance the lives of young people. Through sports, he’s instilled in them the sense of accomplishment, dignity and self-worth; qualities essential to molding a vital human being. In recognition of his efforts, Paul received numerous honours, including and Ontario Volunteer Service Award and Certificate of Merit from the Government of Canada.

In 2004, Paul was inducted into the Peterborough & District Sports Hall of Fame. The recognition is appreciated. But the true rewards, for Paul Brown, are the meaningful lives that blossom because of his teaching; each human being has worth and can do amazing things.

Bill Crane is a tireless champion of musicals and choirs throughout Peterborough and its surrounding Counties. The Peterborough Theatre Guild, numerous schools, Arbour Theatre, the Lindsay Theatre Guild and Bancroft Theatre Guild have all benefitted from his specialized musical arrangements. He has also been known to personalize music to meet the requirements of specific performers, even transposing the music to a different key to suit the performer’s vocal range better.

Bill has delighted audiences with his beautiful tenor singing voice, both ensemble and solo as well as his Church for a good many years. He has impressively sung solo with the Peterborough Symphony in Amahl and the Night Visitors and in Impresario. Bill Crane founded the Peterborough County Youth Choir in the mid 1970’s precursor to today’s Peterborough Children’s Chorus. He actually grew the Youth Choir to just under 280 children, admittedly a massive number.

He is also known as one the best vocal teachers in the area. Hundreds of people have learned priceless and lasting singing techniques from him, and they are still doing so as he remains actively engaged in giving private singing lessons today.

As an elementary classroom teacher, he introduced his own classes to playing the recorder. Over a number of years, he taught advance classes and eventually as lead Arts Coordinator for the Peterborough County Board of Education wrote a full curriculum for teaching the instrument.

Bill Crane has a music teaching credo containing 3 important aspects: 1) the understanding that music lifts the spirit 2) the deep conviction that every person is programmed to be able to make music – it just takes the right approach for each individual and 3) that learning to make music (singing or playing an instrument) should be fun.

A wise person once said you cannot know where you’re going without knowing where you came from. Few have been able to express so warmly their appreciation of family and community roots than has Clare Galvin.

Clare’s great, great grandfather was an immigrant of Peter Robinson, who settled in Ennismore Township in 1825. Mr. Galvin built a family home on land settled by his grandfather, and for more than 40 years, Clare was a successful men’s clothier in Peterborough.

However his true passion was sharing history in a gentle, yet compelling fashion. In 1978, drawing on his Irish heritage, he authored ‘The Holy Land – A History of Ennismore Township.’ He also wrote two other books sharing warmhearted memories of a lifetime lived in the Peterborough area: ‘My Town, My Memories,’ and ‘The Days of My Years.’ Along the way, he displayed his wit and humour through the pages of The Peterborough Examiner by way of his ‘Clare Remembers’ columns.

For Clare Galvin, history, place and family roots were a living trust, and he abided by that trust with perception, gentle grace and good humour.

For many artists, the creative process is a lifelong journey; you start early and finish late. With the body of work he’s produced so far, it’s the hope of many Donald Frost is only at the mere midway point in his journey.

His ability to impress did indeed, start early. While still a youngster, Donald created one of Peterborough’s most recognizable landmarks. Using his parents’ backyard as a first studio, he created the ‘Dancing Figures’ that are synonymous with Peterborough Square. Since their ‘arrival’ at the Square, the figures have frequently been used in marketing, and advertising projects. A credit to Donald’s artistic vision, the creation melds theme, idea and physical reality. The lines are simple, yet evoke energy and spirit. It’s a constant dream of an artist to accomplish this, but it so rarely happens.

The same can be said of his work for Quaker Oats and other creations lovingly brought to life in his Lakefield studio. Those creations have found homes in private, and public collections around North America. The artist’s propensity to share his dream and craft has led to an enthusiastic teaching career, particularly at Kenner Collegiate and Grove School, plus a series of lessons and workshops at his studio.

To instill with life an idea, a dream and a meaning is the essence of an artistic life. To communicate a sense of energy and human vitality through inanimate materials is the true mark of genius, and the hallmark of Donald Frost’s visual artistry.

There are few individual in Peterborough’s sphere of endeavour who proved, more emphatically, the power of language to enlighten, amuse, provoke and, when necessary, enrage than did Bruce Knapp. His frequent calls to local radio, and community television talk shows, his unending flow of letters to the editor, and his appearances before City Council spoke of a man willing to take a stand to defend points of view that often may not be in vogue.

As an ardent monarchist, Bruce spearheaded a campaign to force Canada Post to commemorate the Queen Mother’s hundredth birthday. His humanitarian efforts in disaster relief in Canada and around the world were legendary.

For his efforts, he was awarded the Caring Canadian medal by the Governor General of Canada.

Performing as a family troupe, it only took Leahy a mere 20 years to become an overnight sensation in Pop Music.

Growing up on a farm near Lakefield, the group (presently made up of five brothers and four sisters) learned their unique blend of Celtic, Folk and Pop Music (with more than a dash of step-dancing) from their parents.  Frank Leahy led a fiddle band for 25 years, and Julie Leahy was a champion step-dancer.  Their home didn’t have television, so the children learned to entertain each other with music and dancing.

That early grounding would prove invaluable.  ‘Leahy’ won two Juno Awards in 1998, as ‘Best New Group’ and ‘Instrumental Group’ of the year.  The Juno Award onslaught would continue in 1999.  From humble family beginnings, Leahy became one of the most in-demand acts in the world of Popular Music.

• Photo courtesy Anita Peeples

No historical figure more romantically personifies the pioneer spirit of a young and growing Canada than does Catherine Parr-Traill.

Emigrating to Canada in 1832, Catherine lived in Lakefield, the Rice Lake area and finally, in Peterborough until her death.  During her 69 years in the Kawarthas, she balanced eking out life in the Canadian wilderness with a prolific writing career.  Her books are often referred to as complete studies in Canadian pioneer life, including the now- classics ‘The Backwoods of Canada,’ ‘The Female Emigrant’s Guide’ and ‘Plant Life in Canada.’

With the publication of her last book, ‘Pearls and Pebbles’ in 1894, she was held in esteem as the oldest living author in the British Empire.

In the eyes of many, a writer’s life is a solitary one, locked away in a small room, alone with one’s thoughts and the creative process. However, when you add a dimension of reaching out and a willingness to touch others on a number of levels, then the life of a writer takes on a fresh and meaningful vitality. Gail Corbett is a writer who has reached out, as well as taken in.

As historical writer, Gail’s books, such as ‘Barnardo Children in Canada,’ ‘Portraits,’ ‘Country Churches,’ and ‘Katherine Wallis’ add much to our appreciation of local and national history. Her life is also one of passing-on and sharing the craft of writing. For over 20 years, she’s taught creative writing at Fleming College and conducted numerous lectures and workshops. Gail is also a compelling force, especially locally, with the Canadian Authors Association.

For those of us living in the Kawarthas, Gail has given two precious gifts; a sense of community for aspiring writers and a sense of our own history. It’s often said of history and tradition that what is not written down will be forgotten.

Gail Corbett has written it down, so we shall not forget.

To be active and talented in drama, art, or sport is very special. Also to be able to write effectively about such enthusiasms is truly amazing. Don Barrie, a former Peterborough teacher for 34 years, has been both.

Don Barrie’s amazing career as athlete and coach, notably in lacrosse, led to his induction into the Peterborough and District Sports Hall of Fame, the Ontario Lacrosse Hall of Fame, and the Canadian Lacrosse Hall of Fame.

Don began, on the occasion of his retirement over 15 years ago, to write a weekend Peterborough Examiner sports column. Many historical columns were reworked into his books. Some of his published works (some collaborative, others solo efforts) include ‘Don’t Skate near the Lift Lock,’ ‘Five Decades with the Petes,’ and ‘Lacrosse, the Peterborough Way.’ He was awarded the Peterborough Historical Society’s Dobbin Award for an authoritative and voluminous book on lacrosse.

The Pathway of Fame is pleased to welcome the opinionated writer who shared his love of history of his, and Peterborough’s, favourite sports.

On the off chance that Brian MacDonald is accused of committing a crime in a Peterborough theatre or choral music setting, he would be well advised to get a good lawyer – his fingerprints are everywhere.

For more than 20 years, community theatre has provided the backdrop for Brian’s remarkable and varied creative talents as an actor and director with a number of companies, the Peterborough Theatre Guild and St. James’ Players among them.

Brian’s portrayal of Feste in the guild’s production of Twelfth Night earned him the 2009 Outstanding Male Performance award from the Eastern Ontario Drama League.

But Brian hasn’t stopped there. A singer and instrumentalist of note, he has served as musical director for a number of stage productions, as well as choral work with not one but three Peterborough churches. Brian also sang with The Peterborough Singers and Ada Lee’s celebrated gospel choir.

In addition, Brian has made a point of volunteering his time and talents to the benefit of young people as vocal director for high school and Trent University productions. Yet another artistic realm for Brian is dance and choreography, beneficiaries of his guidance and expertise including the Academy of Dance and the St. James’ Players, for whom he choreographed three shows.

Away from the stage, Brian’s advocacy for the Peterborough arts community as a place of inclusion, diversity and education led to his co-founding of Arts For Awareness, for which he currently serves as chairperson. The theatre collective, which is dedicated to the production of high quality art in various forms, raises awareness of social issues via partnerships with local agencies such as the Canadian Mental Health Association, Hospice Peterborough and the Peterborough AIDS Resource Network. In 2014, Arts For Awareness was recognized as a Mental Health Champion.

On the administrative side, Brian is a past president of the Peterborough Theatre Guild, and has served as board secretary for the St. James’ Players and Performing Arts Bancroft.

For many years during his broadcasting career, George Franks led a double life, much to the delight of countless radio listeners.

Gary Dalliday became an institution in the area’s sporting fraternity during his 34 year career as Sports Director of CHEX TV and Radio.

Gary traded his job at General Electric in the mid 1970’s for the demanding, and somewhat tenuous sports executive post. It was a life-changing decision he never regretted making.

Dalliday was an athlete in his own right, playing Junior B hockey, a handful of games for Scotty Bowman’s Peterborough Petes as well as starring for years In the City softball league.

Gary Dalliday has made sports his life – and along with it, devoting what little spare time he had available to emceeing and hosting hundreds of charity events. In fact, the amount of work he devoted to charities became about as demanding as his job.

He deservedly was inducted into the Peterborough and District Sports Hall of Fame in 2001 as a builder and athlete.
If one attempted to list a number of the colourful sports personalities who have dotted the Peterborough landscape and contributed to the local scene – among them, Scotty Bowman, Johnny Danko, Bob Gainey, Red Sullivan ,Chris Pronger, Dick Trotter, Bill Bennett, Roger Neilson – the name of Gary Dalliday is ranked right up there with them.

Besides the 34 years he was ‘Mr. Hockey’ on CHEX TV and Radio, he and his youngest son, Peter comprised a revered broadcast duo calling Peterborough Petes games on radio for 16 years. Son Peter did the play-by-play and Dad, Gary was the analyst.

Gary Dalliday retired from CHEX TV in 2009 but his caring demeanour, dedication to the sports fraternity and his tireless efforts supporting countless worthwhile causes will forever place him in high regard of the grateful community he served so well.

It should be noted that his son, Peter Dalliday, continues in his Dad’s footsteps and upholds the Dalliday family’s quiet legacy of service above self, as well as calling hockey and lacrosse for Your TV and the Halifax Thunderbirds, as well as co-hosting morning radio in Peterborough on 100.5 FRESH FM.

Gary Dalliday died in August, 2018 following a long, and courageous battle with cancer.

• Photo courtesy of Clifford Skarstedt, The Peterborough Examiner

When talking about those who’ve contributed to the growth of live theatre and performance in Peterborough, one name quickly comes to mind…

Beth McMaster is a founding member, and a tireless worker with the Peterborough Theatre Guild. She’s authored more than 30 plays, many of them debuting at the Theatre Guild under her direction.

In 1990’s, Beth McMaster was the driving force and guiding spirit behind the creation and success of Showplace Peterborough. She has written many fundraisers for the theatre and today, largely through her dedication, Showplace Peterborough is an unquestioned jewel in Peterborough’s performing arts crown.

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.

American novelist Thomas Wolfe’s book ‘You Can’t Go Home Again’ left the impression that one can’t return to what was and pick things up again. It’s most fortunate for Peterborough that Len Lifchus didn’t take that message to heart.

Arriving in Peterborough in 1999 as the newly-minted Chief Executive Officer of the United Way of Peterborough and District, Len served in that role for 10 years before moving to Hamilton to assume the same role in that city. This story would end here but for one thing – upon his retirement in 2014, Len returned to Peterborough to lend his energy, vibrancy and enthusiasm to a number of community initiatives.

In his first go-round, Len joined the Rotary Club of Peterborough-Kawartha and was involved in numerous club projects. Upon returning to the city, he maintained that association by serving in a number of executive positions, including club President for 2017-18. Armed with the ability to juggle numerous projects at one time while bringing people together towards a common goal, Len’s leadership and determination has lifted his fellow Rotarians to new heights. Those contributions have been acknowledged through recognition as a Paul Harris Fellow – Rotary’s highest honour.

Len has gifted that same passion and commitment to the local theatre realm, most notably with the Peterborough Theatre Guild for whom he has directed numerous productions including The Mikado, La Cage Aux Folles, and Cats. In addition, Len’s directorial skills resulted in Ain’t Misbehavin’ and Tonic@Twenty being very successful fundraisers for the Showplace Performance Centre. In October of 2018 he shepherded ‘The Music of ABBA’ across the Showplace boards to rave reviews.

In addition, a number of Board, and Committee tables have seen Len pull up a chair.

He served as Chair of the Central East Community Access Centre, and the Greater Peterborough Chamber of Commerce; vice-Chair of the City of Peterborough Committee of Adjustment, the Trent Centre for Community-Based Education; and he lent his voice to the discussion as a board member for the Peterborough Regional Health Centre, the Estate Planning Council of Peterborough, the Community Foundation of Greater Peterborough and the City of Peterborough Youth Commission. Len’s experience in strategic planning and governance has been invaluable for each of those bodies, and many more.

Never afraid to roll up his sleeves when there’s a job to be done, Len chaired the United Way’s 75th Anniversary Celebration in 2016 and, that same year, assumed a lead role with the volunteers for the Canada Games. And if you wondered as to the identity of Rotary Man at the 2018 Polar Plunge, take a wild guess…

The Warming Room was the benefactor of Len’s chilly dip into Chemong Lake.

• Photo courtesy of Clifford Skarstedt, The Peterborough Examiner

In a city with such a rich musical heritage, it takes exceptional talent and dedication to be mentioned in the same breath as the likes of Bobby Watson, Colleen Peterson or Buzz Thompson.

Ryan, and his brother Sam Weber arrived in Peterborough from their native Maryland in 2000, young and confident. With the goal of meeting the late Ronnie Hawkins, our inductees did just that – undertaking chores at his Stoney Lake property for the privilege of learning all they could absorb about the music business, stage performance and songwriting from the then-living legend. Ryan and Sam proved to be good students, soon striking out on their own as The Weber Brothers, and never looking back.

With 14 studio albums to their credit, their catalogue of original music is staggering – and still growing. They’ve performed on pub and event stages throughout Peterborough and the Kawarthas as well as across Canada, the United States and Europe. In 2016, with filmmaker Rob Viscardis, they released the documentary Before We Arrive: The Story of the Weber Brothers, providing insight into the struggles that professional musicians routinely face.

In 2019, Ryan and Sam Weber launched their own production company as an extension of something they’ve done since day one – showcase, and promote the talents of up-and-coming musicians.

For all their success The Weber Brothers have rarely, if ever said “no” to helping any cause that comes knocking. They have headlined numerous fundraisers and benefits, never once mailing in their performance. When their mentor, Ronnie Hawkins called on them to accompany himself, Kris Kristofferson, Gordon Lightfoot and Willie Nelson on a re-recording of Me And Bobby McGee, our inductees were quick to help the man who helped them, all those years ago.

As was the case for musicians near and distant, the COVID-19 pandemic put a stop to performing live. However, Sam Weber’s vision, Weber Brothers Productions, further evolved during that time in the form of a recording studio, allowing the brothers’ to share their musical knowledge and acumen – again, not unlike Hawkins did for them.

Recognized and respected by their peers, accolades have come their way, including three Wire Awards honouring their contributions to Peterborough’s vibrant live music scene. But at the end of the day, the Maryland natives’ all-in support of their adopted home (the Land of Dreams, about which Ryan Weber often refers), and in particular their fellow musicians – continues to set The Weber Brothers apart.

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.

Terry Finn, a native Peterboronian, was a music prodigy, studying piano and organ. By age 15, he played the organ at the Cathedral of St. Peter-in-Chains, and began teaching music with Tommy Barnes’ Continental Academy of Music. Later, he opened his own Finn’s House of Music, where he taught a wide range of musical skills; his students included upcoming stars such as Serena Ryder.

Terry, along with fellow Pathway of Fame inductees Barry Haggarty and Ken Deschamp, formed a band called ‘Parnell,’ which played across Ontario and the Maritimes. During this time the group also released three singles which garnered airtime on Canadian radio. He has played in at least a dozen other bands, recorded with several notable musicians, and performed at nearly every venue in the Peterborough area. His nominator believes his feeling is captured best in the song “Immortality:” “So this is who I am, and this is all I know.”

• Photo courtesy of Lance Anderson, Peterborough This Week / Metroland / MYKawartha

The magic of musical performance lay in its capacity to entertain, delight, inspire, challenge and express thoughts and emotion – too deeply felt, to be entrusted to mere words. Shirley Lannen spent a lifetime expressing thoughts and emotions through music and audiences; the Kawarthas have been the richer for her passion, and talent.

Shirley spent her formative years playing and singing in church, school choirs and at community events. By the late 1950’s, her talents were on display with area dance bands. Her broad love of all genres of music made her the Kawarthas’ unofficial ‘wedding singer.’

In the 1970’s, Shirley began a 28-year love affair with the St. James Players and her natural affinity for Musical Comedy contributed much to the enviable reputation the St. James Players enjoyed over the years. With the Players, she served as director, pianist, choral and musical director, costume director, producer and leading lady.

She served as organist at Donwood United Church and enjoys participating in church musical fundraisers.
Whether in church, on stage or before a dance band, Shirley Lannen always said it best with music.

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.

Each generation wishes to define its youthful existence through a definitive expression, thereby leaving its imprint on the modern evolutionary process.

So it was, the explosive 1960’s gave birth to a dedicated and talented group of young musicians, initially named “The Capris” and subsequently “Dino and the Capris.” It became one of the most popular groups to entertain three generations of Peterborough and area audiences. Whether rock and roll, or country and western, the group’s music was the sound of the 1960’s for this area.

From its formation, throughout its active playing years, the intent was to entertain as many young people as possible while improving on their musical talents. Its members, through the period spanning 1963 through 1986, included lead singer Paul (Dino) DeNoble, Garry Warriner, Ron (Hub) DeNoble, John Barnes, and Dave Coones.

One needs only to talk to anyone about those years to determine the impact of Dino and the Capris. Sheer love of music fuelled the musicians who played in the group over that time. Each participant usually spent whatever he earned to purchase more equipment to enhance their ability to produce the best sound possible.

The late Paul (Dino) DeNoble (deceased 1992) led the most popular Peterborough dance band of its era. People remain grateful for memories of the always-energetic group of musicians, namely Dino and the Capris.

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.’

Longtime proprietor of The Red Dog Tavern, Ray McGregor was a significant contributor to the Peterborough area, both in supporting and encouraging young Canadian musical talent – and in his humanitarian efforts to make life better in the community.

Over the years, under Ray’s guidance the Red Dog afforded a great many aspiring local musicians with their first opportunity for professional employment. Established entertainers such as Prairie Oyster gained their first public exposure, thanks to Red Dog Ray.

Ray frequently utilized the Red Dog facilities to raise thousands of dollars for worthy causes, most notably Cancer Research. On countless occasions, especially at Christmas, Red Dog Ray prepared meals to feed the homeless and forgotten. For his heartfelt generosity, the City of Peterborough presented Ray McGregor with the Award of Merit in 1991.

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

Tanglefoot, a revered folk music group, was one of the great sensations of the mid-1970’s in Peterborough. The group consisted of three elementary school teachers: Tim Rowat, a bilingual Joe Grant and Bob Wagar, who played guitar, fiddle and mandolin and sang tight three-part harmony in period dress. They penned, and presented songs about aspects of Canadian history in a style as if they had found folk songs. The songs dealt with General Brock, the Plains of Abraham, and pioneer life.

They performed in school auditoria across the Province, and their story-telling was punctuated with their music and song. They had a general following because of their appearances at summer events and historic sites – and because they recorded some of their performances for sale.

At one Ottawa festival, the legendary Canadian folksinger, Stan Rogers, opened for Tanglefoot.

The group, with new membership and the continuity of Joe Grant, has toured Canada and lreland. But the music of the 1970’s remains the yardstick for this venturesome group, who most cleverly made history come alive in so many ways.

When we consider the far-reaching success and resulting prominence of business people that have called Peterborough home, George Albertus Cox remains in a league of his own.

Born in Colborne, Upper Canada in May 1840, George came to Peterborough as a young man to serve as an agent for the Montreal Telegraph Company. According to historian Michael Bliss, after attaining the same position for the Canada Life Assurance Company in 1861, George vowed he would one day be its president. He did just that in 1900.

Prior to that, George became president of the Midland Railway in 1883, founded the Central Ontario Loan and Savings Company in 1884 and, in 1890, was named president of the Bank of Commerce. That was two years after he moved to Toronto as a member of a group purchasing the Toronto Globe and the Toronto Evening Star.

George died in January 1914 but not before he and fellow former city resident Edward Food founded Brazilian Light and Power, the largest utility company in South America to that point.

As impressive as his business acumen was, George’s political star was equally bright. Between 1872 and 1886, he served seven one-year terms as Peterborough’s mayor. In 1874, he served briefly as a Liberal member of the Ontario Legislature, completing the term of Thomas Fairbairn who died while in office. He was narrowly defeated when he ran for his seat the following year, meeting the same fate when he ran federally in 1987. Still, his political value was well noted as evidenced by his 1903 appointment to the Senate by Prime Minister Wilfrid Laurier.

In addition to his business pursuits, George served as president of the Ontario Ladies College in Whitby, was bursar of Victoria College at the University of Toronto, and was a major supporter of the Toronto General Hospital.

Not surprisingly, George possessed a fine eye for real estate. Today, his legacy can be seen in a very tangible way on Rubidge Street in Peterborough, where the 2nd Empire Cox Terrace still stands, a designated National Historic Site.

As a retired Peterborough County OPP officer, David McNab is well acquainted with all things required to serve and protect. Beyond that, however, our Inductee committed himself to, and has acted upon in multiple ways, an obligation to help in any way possible.

McNab may have retired from policing in 2017 – but he hasn’t retired from a lifelong commitment to roll up his sleeves and get busy on behalf of someone else’s wellbeing. If you listen carefully, you can almost hear the wheels turning in McNab’s head as he answers the self-directed question of “What I can do?” with a knowing smile as the answer comes to him.

If anyone has earned the moniker of global citizen, it’s David McNab. As an example, his commitment to the Peterborough settlement and integration of Syrian refugees is deep, and life-changing.

When Syrian children new to Canada – sponsored by McNab and his wife Kristy Hiltz – tried tobogganing for the first time, McNab rolled in the snow alongside them.

When teen Syrian refugee Rashid Sheikh Hassan pleaded to come to Canada to escape the civil war ravishing his country, David and Kristy navigated the red tape to make that happen, bringing him to Peterborough where a small network of like-minded people, McNab among them, made his successful integration their mission.

When a Kenyan woman couldn’t come up with the money to send her young son to school, McNab monetized videos depicting their life and Kenyan wildlife, sharing them on YouTube and raising the money needed for not only her son’s school supplies, but also the medicine she needed.

Closer to home, McNab’s kindness has made life better for many, going back to his tenured involvement with Cops For Cancer. McNab’s zest for life and desire to have fun doing whatever he tackles, remains as infectious as it is uplifting. In 2021, McNab issued a Ghost Pepper Eating Challenge, tears welling in his eyes as he and his challenger raised money for One City Peterborough. The next year saw McNab knit toques that he donated to the same organization and also sold to help those seeking shelter from the cold.

Unsurprisingly, McNab’s compassion for others, and his related actions, have brought him significant recognition. In 2021, he was awarded the YMCA Peace Medal, and this past March, Rotary named McNab a Paul Harris Fellow – the highest honour awarded by the international service club. Rashid spoke during that presentation, capturing perfectly, in near perfect English, the essence of his benefactor.

“This is a man who saved my life. I have never met someone like him. He’s kind. He helps people and he respects people. The world needs people like Mr. David.”

Since 1986, Mike Barker has been the founding director of Folk Under the Clock, a concert series that presents folk/roots music in Peterborough. Barker has brought some remarkable talents to Peterborough from around the world – Dougie MacLean (Scotland), Arlo Guthrie (U.S), Eric Bogle (Australia), Danu (Ireland) and legendary Canadian Bruce Cockburn. As well as bringing over 100 music acts to Peterborough stages, Barker has also been a Juror for the Canadian Juno Awards and a longstanding Juror for the Canadian Folk Music Awards. Mike Barker has brought a welcome diversity to the local music scene and has successfully promoted Peterborough as THE place to play in Southern Ontario.

Mike Barker photo courtesy Clifford Skarstedt, Peterborough Examiner

It seems, to be part of Canadian character, many of our enduring cultural achievements come not just from larger centres but from smaller communities such as Peterborough. A proud case in point, remains the shining success story known as The Peterborough Theatre Guild.

Few have contributed more to the Guild’s artistic tradition, than Syd Waldron.

For over 40 years, Syd played a vital, multi-dimensional role in a continuing saga of The Guild. Behind the scenes, (if a director’s job can be considered behind the scenes), Syd directed such classic Guild productions as The Music Man, Ten Little Indians, The Mumberly Inheritance and Sinners, to name but a few. He also devoted much time and energy to fundraising, membership drives and whatever was needed doing, organizationally.

In front of audiences, Syd shone in stellar performances: Fiddler On The Roof, Kiss Me Kate, The King And I and many more.

For Syd Waldron, the stage is truly a two-way street. He takes delight in the vibrant world of live theatre and audiences have taken delight in his talent, creativity and imagination.

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