Inductees

In a city where post-secondary education is an exemplary pillar of the community both past and present, David Sutherland stands out as a true architect of that legacy.

Arriving in Peterborough in 1967 to assume the founding president role of what was then known as Sir Sandford Fleming College, David ensured the community college was exactly that with its offering of daytime and evening courses, the establishment of campuses in Lindsay, Haliburton and Cobourg, and the fostering of relationships with local employers via college advisory committees.

More uniquely, David’s relationship with Trent University founding president Tom Symons laid the groundwork for what was a mutually beneficial education-based partnership that remains intact to this day in a number of ways, including the joint nursing program. To show their commitment to that relationship, both David and Tom served on each other’s board of governors.

Retirement in 1981 did little if anything to slow David down. With local lawyer and parole board member Alex Edmison, he helped establish Edmison House, a halfway house for parolees, many of whom were given work at the city’s recycling plant. It didn’t hurt matters that David’s wife Sylvia was mayor at the time and had some influence on that decision.

Other volunteer pursuits saw David serve on the boards of Junior Achievement, the Greater Peterborough Area Economic Development Council and Trent Valley Literacy. Also benefitting from David’s clear commitment to community, was Meals On Wheels.

David Sutherland passed in 1991, robbing Peterborough of what was sure to be years of more meaningful contributions. As Sylvia notes, David’s initial plan was to stay at Fleming five years. That became 10 years and then almost 15, leading to the relatively easy decision that Peterborough, thankfully, would remain their home after his retirement.

Most fortunately for Peterborough, finding ways to make a positive change in people’s lives is nothing new for Donald (Don) Watkins.

A pharmacist by trade, Don is a longtime Rotarian, having served with the Rotary Clubs of Tillsonburg, and Peterborough Kawartha. It was with the service club that Don’s leadership qualities became evident as he rose to serve as Rotary District Governor in 1991.

In the Peterborough community at large, Don is active with Community Care and Hospice Peterborough as well as serving meals at the One Roof Community Centre. In addition, he remains a steadfast supporter for new Canadians through Trent University’s International Student Program – helping with the little things that make a huge difference such as buying a first pair of winter mittens, navigating the public transit system, and job coaching.
Along with working closely with a Kurdish family who emigrated to the safety of Peterborough, Don – together with his wife Sharon, have hosted exchange students, welcomed visiting business people from around the world, and offered their home to ‘Beds WithOut Breakfast,’ a group connecting people in need of a free roof over their head while a family member is in hospital.

For any information regarding Rotary, Don has been and remains, the go-to person. However, his biggest contribution to the community through the service club is his annual Adventure In Understanding canoe trip, a six-night, five-day paddling and portage experience that brings First Nations and non-indigenous youth together as they canoe from Ecology Park to Curve Lake First Nation. A lingering vision of Don’s for several years, the program continues to grow and has served as a template for other Rotary clubs considering a similar project.

It’s true that in life, there are ‘do-gooders,’ and there are those who do good. Ray Peters certainly falls within the latter.

He didn’t pursue the limelight in helping the poor and less fortunate. It’s because he assisted so many due to his passion to assure that justice is served, he earned the gratitude of many. Ray Peters saw to it those experiencing difficulty were assisted, and received any benefits the system had to offer. Mr. Peters became a sought-after, and revered personality – so much so, he became legendary in the community. He dedicated most of his time to making sure those in need of assistance, received it.

His tireless efforts on behalf of those less fortunate, earned respect from his superiors, and reverence from his subordinates.

The Pathway of Fame experiences a “first of its kind” category this year.

In the year 2000, prolific songwriter Cyril Rawson was inducted. This year, his father Les Rawson is an Inductee – which marks the first father-son Inductions to the Pathway.

During World War Two, Les Rawson served in the Royal Navy aboard the HMS Norfolk, which was one of the ships to track the Bismarck and was present when the German battleship sank.

But it was after emigrating here with his wife and young son that he was to make his mark in the world.

Les Rawson made a huge impact on the musical history of our area. He not only accomplished that by giving young musicians the opportunity to get a start in their career by making the newest music products available, but – more importantly – through generosity, and trust. Les gave them a way to actually own their own instrument, which in most cases they could not afford.

Rawson’s Music Centre was a full-service music store, which also featured teaching studios. Les offered the local musician the tremendous opportunity to own their desired instrument over time, without the need for a credit check. He trusted musicians to make a weekly or monthly payment – keeping track on a personalized card in a box under the counter.

Les’ store became a place to meet and try out the newest instruments. Those meetings are credited with the birth of bands led by Bobby Kinsman and Del Crary, as well as other big bands. Les and his wife, Lillian, were also very involved in the Kiwanis Music Festival.

Les passed away in 1969 at the young age of 56, but left behind a legacy of grateful musicians who will never forget the trust, and confidence he placed in them.

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

Mr. Bierk was a noted artist, teacher and co-founder of ARTSPACE with poet Dennis Tourbin, serving as its Director from 1974 until at least 1981. At the time, ARTSPACE was hailed as one of Canada’s earliest artist-operated arts centers.

Mr. Bierk was involved in the community since 1970, taking a teaching position at Kenner Collegiate and Vocational Institute in 1972, and later taught at Fleming College.

Mr. Bierk passed away August 28th, 2002.

Details of Joseph Scriven’s life are somewhat limited, but what is known makes a remarkable story.

He was born in Ireland to a family of comfortable means and educated at Trinity College, Dublin.  On the eve of his wedding, his fiancée accidentally drowned.  It was a shock from which he’d never recover.

Emigrating to Port Hope area, Joseph taught school and developed a strong faith in Christ. Adhering to a strict life of piety, he gave all his possessions to the poor and became known as The Good Samaritan of Port Hope.  He died under mysterious circumstances in August, 1886.

His gifts to the poor of Port Hope were his possessions, but Joseph Scriven’s gift to the world were the many hymns he composed after embracing Christianity, the most notable being, ‘What A Friend We Have In Jesus,’ a song that’s been sung in every Christian church around the world for the past one hundred years.

Music is made in many different ways; no one was more aware of it than Joseph DeNoble Sr., or just plain ‘Joe.’ The Musicland store he created and operated was a palace of musical instruments and a place of learning.

Joe played most every instrument but was quick to emphasize, he played them all badly, except for the accordion and Hammond organ.

‘Music is Happiness’ was his motto and Joe DeNoble’s contribution of instruments and sound equipment to charitable functions of the day, remains legendary to this day.

Musicland benefited from Del Crary’s promotion which aided the excellent quality of service; some of the area’s foremost musicians staffing the teaching roster.

Joe’s generosity and accomplishments served as a lively springboard for careers of countless musicians in the area.

Mr. DeNoble passed away in 1988 after a courageous battle with cancer.

If anyone’s to be truly born with “printer’s ink” in their veins, such could be said of Peterborough’s own Ed Arnold.

Over 35 years, Ed worked his way through almost every position in Peterborough Examiner newsrooms from photography, dark-room, reporter, to city editor and managing editor. In the latter position, Ed Arnold is believed to be the longest reigning such executive of a daily newspaper in Canada.

He authored nine books, including a national best seller on minor hockey. Knowledge of his hometown spurred him to found “Kids In Need,” a registered charity helping children within Peterborough and County.

Recipients benefiting from Ed Arnold’s knowledge and cooperation can be found in a wide range of endeavours, such as the Gainey Foundation, as well as other authors’ access to archival material and electronic media.

Harry Pott is a much admired volunteer who brings enthusiasm and skill to every activity. Except for a stint in the army, until 1958 Harry’s life revolved around farming in Manitoba. After a visit to Peterborough, he decided to stay to be a carpenter until retiring in 1981.

He has been teaching line dancing, taught fitness and swimming to mentally handicapped children, and has been an organizer for major seniors events, such as the Happy Gang seniors and carpet bowling.

Mr. Pott has served on the St. Giles Church Board of Managers since 1968.

To be a popular influential figure in Canadian Country Music doesn’t necessarily mean you have to play and sing. To that end, Jim Higgins made remarkable contributions to local Country Music without ever picking up a guitar.

As broadcaster, promoter and executive, he introduced local and international performers to the area and broadened the appreciation of the music form among fans and followers.

Over the years, Jim became a familiar figure through his cable TV show, The World of Country Music, and his Classic Country radio show. He’s also influential in establishing the Victoria County Music Association and organizing The Grand Ole Night of Country Music at Academy Theatre. As well, he’s been a driving force behind many charity benefit shows in aid of worthy causes. Outside of music and broadcasting,

Jim is a also busy executive with the Peterborough Lakers, promoting lacrosse throughout the Kawartha region.

Jim Higgins is living proof that word of mouth, from the right mouth, can get the message across in music and community service.

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.

Marilyn Robinson first got involved with community theatre quite by chance, that happenstance marking the beginning of what has been a far-reaching 36 year dedication to her passion.

From the moment she was recruited from the audience to handle props during a Whispers Dinner Theatre production in 1984, Marilyn was hooked. At age 20, she became involved with the Peterborough Theatre Guild and has a hand in more than 60 productions since in a number of capacities including director, stage manager and production manager – serving as President of the Guild on three different occasions. In addition, she has gifted her skills to the benefit of 10 St. James’ Players shows.

Marilyn’s love for all things community theatre has extended beyond the stage, leading to her serving in various roles with the Eastern Ontario Drama League, and taking on various responsibilities for the staging of the League’s annual play festivals. At present, Marilyn is in her third year as the League’s Awards Chair.

When the Peterborough Theatre Guild developed a partnership with the Thomas A. Stewart Integrated Arts Program, Marilyn played a key role. And when it came time to secure grants for theatre capital projects, Marilyn was front-and-centre in that process.

Marilyn’s other passion for working with children with disabilities took root when she was in high school, providing the springboard for a lengthy career working with autistic children on their learning and life skills development.

Just like that time many years ago at Whispers Dinner Theatre, Marilyn has continued to step forward to the benefit of events such as Cycle For Autism and Special Olympics, and organizations such as the Canadian Cancer Society for which she has volunteered for more than 40 years. Over the past five years, she has served as chair of the Ovarian Cancer Walk of Hope.

The recipient of a Lifetime Membership from the Peterborough Theatre Guild, Marilyn was inducted into Kenner Collegiate’s Hall of Honour in 2018, adding to a long list of awards that includes an Ontario Volunteer Service Award and two City of Peterborough Civic Awards.

Stompin’ Tom Connors, and his trademark black Stetson, was a music legend whose ‘made-in-Canada’ career intertwined with Peterborough, the home of his first plywood board, his registered nickname, and one song, ‘The Peterborough Postman,’ that has become synonymous with the singer.

He released nearly fifty albums, containing most of his 300 songs that are rooted in Canadian place names. He was born in New Brunswick and raised in Prince Edward Island, and suffered a tough life before becoming an established artist. From 1951 to 1964, he hitchhiked across Canada, something of a singing troubadour. He was married in 1973 on the Elwood Glover show, and he was featured in 1974 on CBC’s ‘Stompin Tom’s Canada.’ Many of his songs are famous for their historical references.

His memorial service was held in Peterborough’s Memorial Centre, March 13, 2013. “When the Peterborough Postman passes by,” we will wonder why he said goodbye…

Paul Crough, in the words of his nominator, “has sung and danced and acted on virtually every stage in the area.”
He is a teacher at St. Peter’s Secondary School who has written, choreographed, directed his students to some remarkable performances.

He toured with Up With People. Locally he founded the Ennismore Homestead Theatre, and has written and directed their shows, designed the choreography and played the leading roles. He was outstanding in the 2013 Peterborough Theatre Guild production of Sound of Music. He played the lead role as Captain Von Trapp, and was a joint choreographer for this outstanding musical. He has had a major role in some forty shows. In 2011, he played the lead in Dirty Rotten Scoundrels. With the St. James Players in 2005 he was a tour de force with Slainte! the remarkable story of Irish emigration to this area, in which he was a co-writer and starred in the lead role.

Paul Crough is an energetic and enthusiastic supporter of theatre in all its local manifestations, and has sung and danced his way into countless audiences.

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

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.

Musicologists agree we can thank The Beatles for more than an exceptional body of music. A generation can thank them for opening the door for young people to form their own music groups with no formal musical training. Teenagers of the 1960’s and beyond created their own sound, and had loads of fun along the way.

Geoff Hewitson is a great example of that era. As lead singer for such wells of memory as The Continentals, The Jaguars and The Fabulous Fugitives, he’s considered a legend of the golden age of Peterborough Rock & Roll. What set Geoff apart was his eagerness to expand his creative horizons. His highly acclaimed and award-winning YOUR TV documentary ‘Peterborough’s Rock & Roll Roots’ revived wonderful memories of those who lived through the era and, maybe, just a small measure of envy among those born too late to enjoy the special good times.

Geoff also wrote a comic drama ‘Wild Oats,’ a highlight of Peterborough Theatre Guild’s 2003 season. Over the years, he’s performed in various capacities with almost every local theatre group, including a superb performance in 4th Line Theatre’s production of “Doctor Barnardo’s Children.”

Geoff Hewitson is a product of a time when music and performing were fun. Creativity was hands-on, and heartfelt. Performance in Peterborough is the richer because he’s carried the spirit, and never dropped the ball…

If all the stage is indeed a world, John Robinson has established himself as one of its leading citizens.

It was back in 1984 that John asked some friends “What do you actually do at Whispers Dinner Theatre?” Clearly he liked what he heard back as he has rarely left a theatre setting since.

As a volunteer with the St. James’ Players and the Peterborough Theatre Guild for more than 30 years, John has worked on more than 130 productions. In 1997, he joined the Peterborough Theatre Guild executive and served as technical director over the next 18 years, participating in workshops on lighting, pyrotechnics and theatre safety while sharing his invaluable knowledge with students at St. Peter and Thomas A. Stewart.

A recipient of awards from the Eastern Ontario Drama League, John was honoured in 2002 with the Peterborough Theatre Guild’s Outstanding Service Award and, just last year, with a Lifetime Membership. His work with the Peterborough Theatre Guild executive brought him a Community Betterment Award from the City of Peterborough in 2003 to go along with two other civic awards for his production team role on two productions. And in 2007, he received an Ontario Volunteer Service Award in recognition of more than 20 years of continuous service with the Peterborough Theatre Guild.

Away from the bright stage lights, John has been no less dedicated and, as a result, no less busy. In 2005, he volunteered his time with Special Olympics Ontario for its Spring Games and again in 2018 for the school championships. For more than 20 years, he has worked behind the scenes to make the Canadian Cancer Society’s Relay For Life a huge success in both Peterborough and Bowmanville, and is currently serving his seventh year as a member of the planning committee for the annual Ovarian Cancer Walk of Hope.

While it’s true there is great influence in numbers, Jenny and Cyril Carter remind us that number that can be as low as two.

The couple moved to Peterborough from England in 1968 with their three children, 15 years after they married. At the time Jenny, with an Honours degree in French from University College of London, was a French teacher while Cyril was completing his PhD in mathematical physics, also at University College London, en route to working as a scientist at the British government’s nuclear energy facility in Harwell.

It was in the early 1960’s that Jenny and Cyril became strong advocates for alternative power sources, believing nuclear energy to be both expensive, and dangerous.

Settling in Peterborough, Jenny worked as a high school teacher while Cyril was a professor of mathematics and environmental studies at Trent University. In addition, Jenny earned a degree in English and her Masters in Canadian Studies at Trent. But busy as life was for the couple, their mutual interest in social issues advocacy never waned. Joining the Peterborough NDP Association gave them the opportunity to act in a meaningful way on that interest.

Community service was a passion shared equallly Jenny and Cyril, the resumés of both brimming with examples.

A founding member of Kawartha Ploughshares, Jenny served as a director with the United Way as well as lending her talents and passion to the work of the Peterborough Social Planning Council and Kawartha Food Share. In addition, she helped establish the Peterborough Legal Clinic and served on its board.

But it was in the political arena that Jenny flourished on a bigger stage. Elected Peterborough MPP in 1990, she represented this area at Queen’s Park until 1995, serving as Ontario’s Energy Minister under Bob Rae in 1990 and 1991. Among her milestone achievements was the introduction of a government moratorium on new nuclear plants.

Cyril, meanwhile, was equally active, serving for 12 years with the Peterborough Utilities Commission, as both a commissioner and Chair. He played a major role in the Commission’s acquisition of the Wenonah property, ensuring its future use for the Riverview Park and Zoo.

In addition, Cyril served on the board of what was then Peterborough Civic Hospital, was a founding member of the Peterborough Solar Energy Society, was a director with the Canadian Solar Energy Society and co-founded the Environmental Studies Department at Trent University. With Jenny, he also helped establish the Peterborough Legal Clinic and  was a charter member of Trent University’s Legacy Society.

Cyril Carter passed away in 1999.

• Photo of Jenny Carter courtesy of Clifford Skarstedt, The Peterborough Examiner

What possible connection does a cemetery in San Rafael, California have to Peterborough? Well, Mount Tamalpais Cemetery is the final resting place of Dr. Jessie Birnie, the first woman to practice medicine in the city.

Born to Caroline and John Birnie, Dr. Birnie was in Peterborough in 1901, having graduated from the University of Toronto. It wasn’t until seven years after her arrival that she was granted hospital privileges.

Initially, Dr. Birnie lived on Water Street with American-born Frances Mary Best, the widow of well-known merchant James Best. When she passed in 1915, Dr. Birnie moved to a residence located at the current location of the Peterborough police station.

When Quaker Oats was rocked by a massive explosion in 1916 and consumed by flames, Dr. Birnie, in one account, “was barking like a Sergeant Major” while assisting fire wardens with the plant’s evacuation. The account goes on to note, in fairness to Dr. Birnie, the roar of the flames necessitated her “barking” to be heard.

A few years earlier, Dr. Birnie opened her home to eight ladies where, in her living room, they began a tradition of meeting regularly to discuss, research and debate the works of William Shakespeare. Thus the Women’s Shakespeare Club was formed.

In 1931, with her sister Caroline, Dr. Birnie crossed into the United States at Detroit on their way to see their brother John in California. There Dr. Birnie passed in 1935, just a few months after her sister died.

• Photo courtesy of the Birnie Family

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.

Virtually any Peterborough stage production of note that had dancing and movement at its centre can be attributed to the skills and guidance of Julie Fallis.

Under the tutelage of Joanne Agar at the Academy of Dance in East City, a young Fallis was bitten hard by the dance bug. The after effects of that have been long lasting and significant, not only for the countless students she taught and mentored at her Move N’ Grooove Studio, but also for the Peterborough Theatre Guild, St. James’ Players, Ennismore Homestead Theatre, and St. Peter’s Secondary School.

Before opening Move N’ Grooove more than 30 years ago, Fallis attended Fleming College, taking her recreation and leadership skills to the Royal Academy of Dance where she earned certification as a dance instructor.

Under Fallis’ tutelage, Move N’ Grooove provided hundreds of students, from primary aged kids to adults, with a safe space where they felt seen, heard and accepted. The studio’s walls were home to hundreds of awards – a testament to the high calibre of instruction they received. Countless former students – many of whom have gone onto very good things – credit their time as Fallis’ students with shaping them into what they have become.

As a sideline dancer for the Toronto Argonauts football club, as a performer with Up With People and as an always encouraging supporter of her students at dance competitions, Fallis’ passion for dance and movement has been, and remains, the common denominator. That she got involved with local theatre productions was a natural progression of not only her training but also her overriding desire to see others soar.

Following the challenge of choreographing Guys and Dolls for the Peterborough Theatre Guild in 1997, Fallis embarked on a long line of theatrical collaborations, lending her skills to the success of a number of productions. Her most recent theatre project was with the guild’s 2025 staging of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.

Forced to close Move N’ Grooove as a result of the pandemic shutdown, Fallis did what the resilient do – she regrouped and, upon attaining her yoga teaching certification, opened Inspired Movement where she continues to share her love of movement, albeit in a different form.

But there’s another side of Fallis’ contributions that doesn’t get the attention it should. Over the years, when a cause or organization asked for her talents and time, she repeatedly answered the call. The Down Syndrome Association of Peterborough, the Five Counties Children’s Centre, Fleming College and the Peterborough Regional Health Centre Foundation are but a few of the entities having benefited greatly from Fallis’ giving back to the community she loves.

From the 1930’s to the 1970’s, if you enjoyed live entertainment at one of Peterborough’s legendary ‘hot spots,’ chances are you were charmed by the multi-faceted talents of Ernie Victor.

Beginning his career with the Salvation Army Band at the ripe age of seven, Ernie wowed audiences with his ability to play a duet on two horns at the same time. As leader of his own group, a member of Graydon Sheldon’s Oldtimers, or as a soloist, Ernie delighted an entire generation with his musical virtuosity.

In the 1950’s he added magic to his repertoire, and subsequently became one of Peterborough’s most prolific booking agents. He brought countless big name entertainers to the Peterborough area and booked grandstand shows for the region’s major fairs and exhibitions. Achieving distinction as musician, conductor, arranger, vocalist, magician, comedian, and booking agent, he could well have been called the “Mr. Everything” of Peterborough entertainment.

The quality and expressiveness of lighting can never be underestimated in the success of live production.

For 28 years, Ray Gillies raised the craft of lighting to an art form. He provided lighting for almost every production of The Peterborough Theatre Guild as well as Memorial Centre shows and numerous events in, and around the City.
Ray was a driving force behind acquisition, and restoration of The Theatre Guild’s present location on Rogers Street. While assuming the added responsibility of serving as property manager for the Theatre Guild, Ray Gillies always gave generously of his time and patience to teach others the art, and craft of lighting.

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.

The Peterborough region is blessed with many who light up a room by simply walking into it, but few can lay claim to a more memorable entrance than Megan Murphy.

Gifted with a spark and quick wit that endears her instantly to everyone, Megan has brought her boundless enthusiasm and energy to several projects and organizations, and also to the theatrical stage as an actress with the Peterborough Theatre Guild, St. James’ Players, New Stages and 4th Line Theatre.

A college-educated documentary filmmaker, Megan’s piece de resistance remains the multi-awarded ‘Murphy’s Law,’ a self-exploratory cycling journey across Ireland that retraced the same journey her late father had made years earlier…on the same bicycle. And many remain grateful for her film documentation of the history of Town’s General Store in Douro which, shortly afterwards, was lost to fire.

A number of campaign and event organizers have been wise to tap into Megan’s talents and natural exuberance to energize their respective causes. In 2018-19, Megan served as Chair of the United Way of Peterborough and District campaign, and the Showplace Performance Centre recently named her an ambassador, alongside Linda Kash, of its ‘Showplace Project: Act II’ fundraising campaign. As an event host, Megan has called on her many years of radio broadcast experience to become the emcee voice of numerous events, including the Easter Seals Telethon.

When the shadow of COVID-19 darkened the landscape, Megan partnered with her good friend Kate Suhr to bring light to the life of many via The Verandah Society that saw the duo present a number of “On the Verandah” musical performances. Also during the pandemic, Megan stepped up on behalf of Kawartha Food Share, spearheading a number of campaigns that helped the agency feed countless families during an unprecedented demand. That same compassion for strangers was clearly evident years earlier when Megan travelled to southeast Asia to help with the rebuilding effort in the wake of the tsunami in late 2004.

For many, of a certain age, we remember when heart disease translated to a death sentence. Medical science has made great strides in treating cardiovascular illnesses over the past 50 years, thanks in no small part to the work and dedication of pioneers like Dr. John Parker.

Having spent his formative years in Peterborough, John graduated as medical doctor in 1954. He went to Columbia University, New York, devoting himself to the relatively new field of cardiovascular medicine.

Returning to Canada in the 1960’s, John established one of the country’s first cardiac catheterization, and angiographic laboratories in Kingston. There, he helped streamline the use of heart-lung machines in cardiac surgery. He was instrumental in establishing a Division of Cardiology at Queens University and a research program in cardiovascular physiology and biochemistry. New inroads were made, under his guidance, in the use of nitroglycerin and other related drugs in treating cardiovascular disease.

He was adamant in his lobby effort with the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons to initiate a sub-specialty in Cardiovascular Medicine. In that way, an ever-increasing number of surgeons and specialists have been trained in this new discipline.

Throughout his life, John Parker maintained an abiding love of family, the outdoors and, of course, hockey. His life represents ongoing contributions to medicine, science and family. John never lost sight of the fact that a scientist is also a human being. Because of the balance and dedication, the future of cardiac patients continues to look a lot brighter.

The song ‘The Impossible Dream’ could be said to reflect Ray Hutchinson’s inner spirit.

His career is the stuff of dreams, and he accomplished it. Physically challenged from age four, he spent most of his life on pain medications. Later, a near fatal accident left him with severe head trauma as well.

Teens from all over the North American continent in the late 1950’s danced to ‘Clap Your Hands.’ By  then Ray was balladeer, and lead guitarist of ‘The Beau-Marks’ who became Canada’s most recognized Rock’n Roll Band, as a result – at one time standing on  the same stage as Dick Clark on American Bandstand, and later with the renowned Ed Sullivan.  Much can be said about Ray Hutchinson that deservedly places him in Canadian music legend status. Ask anyone who enjoyed his many local performances in the 1970’s, while living at his Stewart Hall farm, about his captivating charm, and extremely great talent known continent-wide.

When, in like circumstances, faced with trials and tribulations others might have given up. Ray endured, and with his determination and perseverance, became an inspiration to his peers, friends and fans alike.

Mr. Hutchinson passed away October 31st, 2021 at the Peterborough Regional Health Center, in his 82nd year.

Lois Harte-Maxwell was proof that with hard work and dedication, the only insurmountable impediments in life are not physical, but that of the human spirit.

Despite her own difficulties with physical mobility, Lois tirelessly supported and, in some cases, was a pioneer in creating community awareness in Peterborough for those with any form of disability. She served several terms on City Council and sat on a number of committees dealing with accessibility issues for those with disabilities. More than any other individual, Lois Harte-Maxwell was instrumental in making City Hall physically accessible to all citizens of Peterborough.

Lois Harte-Maxwell died in 2016, in her 80th year.

Is there still a place in this world for a renaissance man? There is, and to the immense benefit of Peterborough and the Kawarthas, a renaissance man in every respect has made this place his home.

David Goyette most certainly brings all the characteristics of a renaissance man to the table. He’s highly educated, cultured in the arts and he has charisma in spades. And yes, he’s an intelligent man who is good at many different things, accomplishing much with an ease that belies his boundless energy.

Since moving to the region 13 years ago David has gifted his leadership to several initiatives, as well as contributed financially in a big way to a number of projects and campaigns, including a $50,000 donation made in March 2020 in support of the David Goyette and Victoria Pearce Arts and Wellness Initiative that provides funding for arts-related projects undertaken by United Way member agencies. His philanthropy has also included support of the Showplace Performance Centre in the form of a 10-year funding commitment for the purchase of a state-of-the-art theatrical lighting console. In 2018, Showplace named its stage in his honour.

As a board chair, David’s guidance steered a clear path for the downtown performance venue and, in 2019-20, his term as Chair of the Peterborough and District United Way campaign saw an invigorating vibrancy injected into the annual appeal. As a board member, David has rolled up his sleeves to the benefit of the Canadian Canoe Museum, the Artisan Centre of Peterborough, and the Lakefield Jazz, Art and Craft Festival. David most recently chaired a very successful campaign for the Camp Kawartha Health Centre.

With an eye firmly focused on the nurturing of the local arts scene, David is not one to sit on the sidelines, bringing his talents as an artist and musician to the fore. A songwriter and guitarist, he has three CDs of original music to his credit and, as an abstract expressionist painter, he has mounted no fewer than 20 shows of his work with many of his pieces having found a home in private collections. The former Peterborough Examiner weekly columnist has also authored four books, the sale proceeds from two of his books benefitting Our Space and the Purple Onion Festival.