Inductees

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

In today’s fast-paced world, no one can afford underestimating the importance of learning and getting a good education. Sometimes the impediment to a student’s success can be something as simple as the absence of a good breakfast. Jack Byers had an idea to remedy the problem and, several thousand breakfasts later, many Peterborough school children are healthier and more productive because of that idea.

In 1995, Jack approached his fellow members of St. James United Church Men’s Club about starting a breakfast program in city schools. Under Jack’s leadership, the Men’s Club provided a nutritious breakfast for close to 75 students each school day. It’s also the first breakfast program in the city to serve pupils from both Public, and Separate Boards. Thanks to Jack Byers efforts, and those of the St. James Men’s Club, these young people are fed at no cost to Boards, or students. It’s been, and continues to be Jack Byers who spearheads the organization of volunteers, food purchase, and fundraising events to keep the program cost-neutral.

With diplomacy, energy, creativity and dedication, Jack Byers represents the best of a community: You identify a need, and you do something about it. Sounds so simple, doesn’t it?

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.

Marty Gerrard Murphy was a well-known Peterborough criminal lawyer renowned for his “dedication, wit and sense of humour.”

Except for his years studying law in Ottawa, Marty Murphy’s career was in Peterborough. He was a partner in Galvin and Murphy with his uncle, Doug Galvin. He was the brother of Sharon Murphy who was a lawyer with her husband at Gariepy Murphy. Marty founded the Thames Embankment Society, an organization to support lawyers and their work. As one of the city’s leading criminal lawyers, he was Federal Crown Attorney for Peterborough.

There were several stories of how Marty Murphy had helped clients, whom he said should always be treated as royalty. On one occasion he approached someone who was in trouble and was trying to defend himself and was distraught at the enormity of the task. Marty Murphy asked how he could help, and stayed with him the remainder of the day. He told the vindicated man to “do something for someone else in need when the opportunity arose.” Lawyers valued him as a colleague, and “our community was enriched by his contributions.”

More than a generation of Peterborough young people learned music under the tutelage of Tommy Barnes. As proprietor of the Continental Academy of Music, Tommy taught music for over 25 years.

Widely recognized as one of Canadian Music’s finest dobro and steel players, Tommy enjoyed a career as a much sought-after session player and band member. Playing with such locally-acclaimed groups as Wildwind and The Teddy Bear Band, Tommy Barnes gave generously of his considerable talents to further many charitable organizations and fundraisers.

“An individual who’ll gamble intelligently while others tremble with insecurity.” That’s a powerful description of a man who’s made a tremendous contribution to business and cultural progress of Peterborough.

John Bowes isn’t one to sit on his hands when opportunity beckons.

As co-founder of Bowes & Cocks Realty, John quickly proved himself to be an energetic and innovative business leader. He developed a brokerage model for selling as well as pioneering the use of computers and nationally franchising the brand name. Over 50 years ago, he was instrumental in organizing the Peterborough Real Estate Board with a mandate to raise, and safeguard professional standards. Throughout his life, John applied the same solid business acumen to his community involvement. As an integral player with Chamber of Commerce, John was instrumental in developing Peterborough Square, Showplace and Beavermead Park. He’s also an early supporter of what would become The Peterborough Summer Festival of Lights. With The Greater Peterborough Economic Council, John chaired a committee issuing a report entitled ‘Peterborough Into The 21st Century.’ The report was a visionary plan to revitalize the downtown core and improve transportation links.

John Bowes put his life story to paper in a popular autobiography called ‘Dreams For Sale:Make Me An Offer.’ As many commented, the book isn’t just a story of one individual; it’s a revealing portrait of a community in transition, from country town to one of the best places to live, anywhere. That’s been John Bowes’ contribution to Peterborough.

Whether in business or community involvement, his work is characterized by energy, commitment and vision.

When discussing the talents of certain musicians, a phrase is often heard: “It’s in his blood.” That’s certainly very true of inductee William Wright.

Bill started on the drums at age ten and was soon performing in clubs long before he was old enough to partake of the ‘refreshments’ those clubs offered…

Bill’s first taste of the road came when he joined the band of ‘rock’n roll’ star Ray Smith, touring Canada and the U.S. He later played Las Vegas with Canadian pop legend, Bobby Curtola. Locally, Bill gained acclaim performing with such luminaries as Dino And The Capris, the Brian Browne Trio and Stu McCue & Wildwind.

In 1964, Bill opened Wright’s Music on George Street, which became a centre for Peterborough’s musical life. Bill taught many aspiring musicians, and his shop housed the local Academy of Music and the Musicians Union with which Bill was very active.

As performer, teacher, union supporter and businessman, there’s no doubt music remained a foundation, flowing through the veins of Bill Wright.

Sam Strickland was one of the earliest settlers in what is now Peterborough, arriving at the same time as the Peter Robinson settlers. He built the first house in the area on what is now Nicolls Oval, where visitors can read a plague bearing the following history…

“Sam Strickland was an immigrant to Canada in 1825 sponsored by a family friend, Colonel Black of Darlington, Ontario. He purchased this property, now Nichols Oval, in 1829 and built his first house here. He worked for John Galt and The Canada Company in the Huron Tract.

“In 1830, he sold this property and purchased farm land in North Douro. Sam Strickland became a land commissioner, Justice of the Peace, teacher, author and family man.

“Two sisters, Catharine Parr Trail and Susanna Moodie followed him to the Lakefield area. His 1853 book, Twenty-seven years in Canada West, was a helpful guide for immigrants, mostly young and working poor hoping to succeed in Canada.

“Within its pages he described the three great ‘wants’ in Canada. “We need pastors, teachers and population.”

“Sam Strickland emphasized the development of community and the education of the young. Col. Strickland was an early advocate of assisted child emigration to Canada; by 1935 more than 900,000 young people came to Canada as “Home Children.”

The plaque was erected by The City of Peterborough, in partnership with The Fenner Foundation.

Sam Strickland was a leading citizen of the area and is recognized as the founder of Lakefield. He supported the construction of Lakefield’s first mill, its first passable road, and its bridge over the Otonabee River. He was a member of Council for Douro Township and of Peterborough County.

Samuel Strickland was a true pioneer, and a giant among men in every sense of the word.

Bing Doughty’s life stands as testament to his belief that music and friendship go hand in hand. If you loved old time country music, you were Bing’s friend and he, your’s. A true devotee of traditional Country Music, Bing Doughty was a familiar and welcome performer at all area fairs and jamborees. Although born and raised in the Peterborough area, he spent lots of time in Coe Hill and thus his signature tune, ‘The Coe Hill Cannonball’.

Over the years, Bing was a tireless performer, always ready and willing to entertain in aid of charitable causes and brighten the lives of seniors in, and around the Peterborough area.

When big bands and their music ruled, none seemed bigger or more lasting than Hal MacFarlane’s Orchestra, usually boasting 14 musicians.

In Peterborough and surrounding area there was one band commanding large followings and enjoyed by hundreds of fox-trotting, ballroom dancing fans; the Hal MacFarlane Orchestra.

As a youngster, Hal aspired to be a theatre pianist. He added saxophone and developed a great reputation as a music teacher. Hal MacFarlane inspired more than a generation of musical aficionados. His Orchestra was one of the largest in the area in 1940’s through to the 1960’s.

The Hal MacFarlane Orchestra was, for years the resident band at the Brock Ballroom on Saturday nights, where they developed novel ways to protect their instruments from the hockey-rink ice. During war years, the band played for army recruitment shows, and at the Peterborough Exhibition. The band was in demand for proms and high school formals until the 1960’s, when many young dance bands emerged.

Hal MacFarlane, a two-time president of the local musicians’ union, was also organist for the Peterborough Petes hockey team. His music, and our memories will never end. Nor will we forget the good times.

Lifelong resident of Peterborough, Barb Cantello’s community contributions cover the artistic, as well as the practical.

For more than 45 years, she’s been a dynamic and influential member of St. John Ambulance, Peterborough Branch. Active in community affairs, Barb played a pioneering role in developing a program to teach First Aid in area schools.

An added dimension to Barb Cantello’s contribution to the fabric of Peterborough, is her status as one of the founding members of Sweet Adelines Barbershop Singing Chorus, Peterborough Chapter.

Johannus Boots is one of those rare and fortunate individuals who is able to combine career, with creative passion.

Formally trained as a commercial artist, Johannus spent a number of years using his artistic creativity to produce what was necessary to pay the bills. Working to the specifications and desires of others taught him much about the art business, laying a foundation for his dream of self-publishing, and self-distributing.

Since setting out on his own, Johannus has drawn upon the natural beauty of the Haliburton Highlands to create his distinctive artistic expression. His lithograph and giclee editions gained him a significant, and ever-growing reputation; a reputation due, in no small measure to his extensive use of the internet to display his works to patrons, worldwide.

Passion for his art and determination to be an individual has made Johannus Boots a truly unique artist.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For many, altruism is a luxury. To Louis and Gus Yeotes and family, it’s a way of life.

In 1903, Louis Yeotes opened his first business on George Street and, for the next 74 years, embraced this community as few others have done. He donated money to almost every sports league in the city and purchased equipment for teams struggling through the Depression when money was scarce. To all charities and civic endeavours, he was a generous donor and the first major contributor to the Memorial Centre building fund. To honour his generosity and kindness to Peterborough, especially to the sporting community, Louis was inducted into the Peterborough & District Sports Hall of Fame.

Louis’ son, Gus, has followed his father’s footsteps. For over 25 years, he’s freely made available Lakeview Bowl to support Big Brothers and Big Sisters. Gus and his family continued to make substantial donations to a multitude of local causes, including Sports Hall of Fame, Showplace, Save The Town Clock fund and Peterborough Regional Health Centre, until they ultimately retired from the business.

For a century, the Yeotes Family has been a vital part of the Peterborough community and, for a century, far too many individuals and organizations – to even begin to mention – have benefited from their heartwarming generosity and kindness.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

If you’ve any doubt that one individual can make a difference in the betterment of the human condition, look no further than the life of Dr. Barclay McKone.

A trusted, tireless family physician, Dr. McKone set his sights on the treatment, and prevention of tuberculosis. Over the years, he helped pioneer programs to rehabilitate tuberculosis patients, particularly with the Department of Veterans Affairs and First Nation bands in Northern Canada. He was instrumental in establishing a vaccine program to help eradicate tuberculosis in Ontario.

With an abiding commitment to cultural and the medical well-being of his community, Barclay McKone served with the Kiwanis Club, the Peterborough Chamber of Commerce and late in life gained attention for his remarkable, handcrafted models of Peterborough’s historical buildings.

Some might question why a person would devote so much time and effort for others, even to the extent of spending money out of his own pocket. The answer to the question, was Al Beavis.

His, was a lifelong quest to assist people and organizations, giving him great pleasure knowing he made a difference; in fact, a big difference.

And, what a difference! In the area of personally attracting over $200,000 toward assisting various causes that he supported from Five Counties Children’s Centre to Art Space. Al even put his portly physic to work, investing in a red suit and appropriate white beard to raise funds for a number of charities.

Al Beavis epitomized a community fundraising Santa by combining his altruistic character and creativity, resulting in helping all those in need.

Mr. Beavis passed away on March 15th, 2009

Wayne Pritchard first came to the attention of Peterborough audiences as a talented bass player who performed with a number of local Country music groups, and was always willing to give of his time and talent in aid of worthy causes.  Wayne’s love of music, and of people led him to take an active role in the music business.  He toiled, for many years as promoter, and as a participant with organizations such as the Peterborough Musicians’ Union, and the Peterborough Exhibition Board.

With his vast knowledge of music and music people, Wayne Pritchard co-created the nationally-syndicated radio show ‘Canadian Top Ten’.  The program is credited with doing much to nurture the development of Canadian Country Music talent.

Few can claim to equal Stephen Kylie for his dedication and service to his community. He devotes so many volunteer hours to all his various pursuits that it gives one pause to wonder when he has time to pursue his law practice.

Stephen Kylie is one of those people who finds a great deal of satisfaction knowing he is contributing to the well-being, and strength of his community.

Stephen’s vision of a better, caring place in which to live is reflected by the committees in which he is involved. His focus is always on those who require a better standard of housing and care.

At present, Stephen is Chair of the Peterborough Poverty Reduction Network, as well as Chair of the Mount Community Centre. Both are challenging, and demanding responsibilities that Kylie handles with ease, together with an insight possessed by a select few.

Stephen Kylie proves, at every turn, that he is the man of the moment.

It is an impossibility to list Stephen’s volunteer pursuits, as space does not allow.

However we dare mention a few: Co-Chair of the Rotary Club Victoria Day Fireworks and Family Night (Peterborough); President of the Peterborough Diocese Good Shepard Foundation, and Vice-Chair of the Trent University Board of Governors – chairing the Executive and Property and Finance Committees.
He is widely respected among his peers as a pillar of the community and one who can be trusted to offer up thoughtful, caring advice on any problem presented and requested of him. As busy as he is, he always has time to help assist projects other than those which may be commanding his attention at any given moment.

Stephen Kylie’s greatest attribute is the complete devotion he freely offers to any, and all community or church project requesting his expertise.

It is because of people like Stephen Kylie, that our City and surrounding areas remain the jewels they are – and all, for his willingness to give of himself so unselfishly, in order to make it a better place in which to live, for all.

• photo courtesy Clifford Skarstedt, The Peterborough Examiner

Rick Fines’ talents as artist, singer and songwriter have earned him wide respect from audiences, fans and those within the music industry. For 15 years, during the 1980’s and 1990’s, Alan Black (drums, harmonica), Gary Peeples and Rick Fines played as the Jackson Delta Blues Band. They played in rock bands but, on off nights, played acoustic blues. They pursued individual musical careers after the 1990’s. Rick, in 2005, for his song ‘Riley Wants His Life Back,’ won in the blues category of an international songwriting competition. Rick played in various parts of the United States, Canada and Eastern Europe over the past two years. His awards include a Maple Blues Award for Songwriter of the Year, and twice for Acoustic Act of the Year. Still in his ’40’s, he’s considered a veteran on the folk and blues circuits.

Rick believes those gifted with musical ability have a responsibility to share it by teaching others. He’s been teaching finger-style guitar at Haliburton, Kincardine and Hornby Island, as well as participating in Blues in the Schools programs from Saskatoon to Fredericton. He’s taught adults and youngsters to play the guitar and write songs. He blends traditional sounds with witty contemporary songwriting.

A true professional in every sense of the word.

• Photo courtesy rickfines.ca

For true lovers of music and performance, it’s difficult to recall the first time they held an instrument in their hands.

Norm Post has been making music and captivating audiences since the age of 12 and is considered one of the most ‘instrumental’ individuals in Central Ontario Country Music.  In many ways, Norm’s life and career typify the road traveled by so many Country artists.

As fledgling performer, the dictates of raising a young family put a strain on his musical ambitions.  That worked itself out nicely, in 1967, with the formation of The Singing Post Family.  The next decade, the Post Family made inroads into the Canadian music scene, recording eight albums and making three cross-country tours.

In the 1970’s, as the kids went their separate ways, Norm reinvented his performing passion.  He became an active participant with the Kawartha Shrine Club, devoting much time and energy fundraising for crippled children.  To further his fundraising technique, Norm took the opportunity to become a registered clown and perform as ‘Cinders.’  He continued as solo Country artist, playing alongside such luminaries as Roy Clark, Hank Snow and Gordie Tapp.

He founded the Cross Country Jamboree, which introduced us to talents such as Carroll Baker and Wayne Rostad.  Organizations such as the Canadian Cancer Society, the Rockhound Gemboree, and Canadian Spinal Cord Research benefited from Norm’s organizational, and performing talents.

Music, and people; that’s the combination that comes together, with Norm Post.

The Northwest Mounted Police was formed in 1873 as a federal police force to maintain law and order in remote areas of Canada where provincial and municipal policing wasn’t sufficient.  The Mounties were essential in maintaining Canadian boundaries and, in turn, protecting Canadian culture and identity.

Two local residents played significant roles in the evolution of Canada’s national police force.

Inspector D’Arcy Strickland of The Northwest Mounted Police helped define the Canadian frontier in the Yukon Gold Rush of 1897-1898 and later served as Adjutant to the Fifth Mounted Rifles during the Boer War.

Corporal George Hendren was the only Canadian selected to serve as bodyguard to British Commander Lord Roberts in the Boer War.  He also became a ‘charter’ member of The Royal Northwest Mounted Police when it was established in 1904.

It’s possible to live in a community without really being part of it. With his unselfish devotion of time, energy, commitment and caring, Gerry O’Connor was very much a part of this community. For 12 years he served on Peterborough City council, however his love for Peterborough didn’t stop there.

He was instrumental in developing Del Crary Park, and the creation of Peterborough’s three major shopping malls. He enjoyed local sports, and served in several capacities with Peterborough Minor Hockey and Minor Lacrosse Associations.

It was, however his enthusiastic support of Snofest, Peterborough’s annual winter carnival, for which he will be most fondly remembered. Serving as Snofest’s chairperson for 23 years, he embodied a spirit that made Snofest the success it remains today. ‘Mr. Snofest’ helped to make winter a brighter, and warmer time for all.

An individual who helped thousands of youngsters, spent a lifetime developing award-winning teams, was on duty at 6:30 in the morning until late at night, and who refused as much as a penny in remuneration.

Such was Peterborough’s Pansy Forbes.

Pansy was a pioneer of synchronized swimming, as sport, in Ontario and in Canada; an involvement encompassing more than 30 years.

Early in her career, she included basic figures and patterns in her instruction, concluding with a display of synchronized swimming. A Peterborough club was formed with Pansy as coach. Her accomplishments included many Canadian and International titles, exhibiting the sport at the 1954 British Empire Games and representing Canada at the 1955 Pan Am Games in Mexico City.

Pansy Forbes received numerous awards, one of which was being named to the Aquatic Hall of Fame in Winnipeg.

Pansy Forbes is in the Peterborough Sports Hall of Fame.

Longtime Peterborough family doctor, Don Curtis also found time to be an energetic and effective community activist. A strong supporter of the City’s Recreation Committee since the early 1970’s and instrumental, in 1982, of restructuring the committee into its present form as Parks & Recreation.

Dr. Curtis was an active participant in both 1980 and 1986 editions of the Ontario Summer Games and, in the 1970’s, co-chaired the groundwork entailed in establishing ParticipACTION Peterborough, and Snofest. Don Curtis provided invaluable support for the Peterborough YMCA and The Canadian Canoe Museum.

Dr. Curtis was inducted into the Peterborough and District Sports Hall of Fame in 1983.

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

The Heffernan Family, a talented singing group from Lakefield, long consisted of six siblings and a friend. They learned their music in the family home of Barbara and Kevin Heffernan and was deeply rooted in Irish musical traditions.

The oldest siblings and a friend founded a high school band in 1969 and gradually, the younger siblings joined the group. They were Mary Jo (now deceased), Betty Ann, Kevin, Michele, Patricia and Jeanie, and with the addition of Tom King and his harmonica became ‘The Heffernan Family and Friends.’ These pioneers of the Peterborough Celtic sound performed for masses, weddings and funerals, and eventually played the Peterborough Market Hall and Peterborough Showplace, for Christmas concerts and fundraisers for charities.

They have four albums to their credit: ‘Stay Awhile’ (1997); ‘All the Folks are Home’ (2001); ‘Heart of an Immigrant’ (2011) and ‘The Village Concert – Story and Song’ (2013). The history of the family and Lakefield have been celebrated in the letters of Patricia and Mary Jo, printed in the Lakefield Herald as “Letters from Home,” some of which were published in booklet form in 2013. The Heffernan family has delightfully captured the spirit of the community for some forty years.

The editorial cartoon is a truly unique art form requiring very special talent. Doug Landry demonstrated that special talent for over 50 years in the Peterborough area.

He sold his first cartoon to none other than Robertson Davies, then-editor of the Peterborough Examiner in 1950, and churned out a steady stream for area publications since that day. Doug estimated at one time he produced several thousand quick sketches at fairs and community events. In fact, special editions of his cartoons and caricatures are now becoming collector items.

Over the years, Doug branched out into commercial art and design, and landscape painting. However, it’s the quick sketches, caricatures and cartoons that remained his first love.

Many perform music but few live the experience 24-7.

As a lifelong entertainer, Earl Wilfong’s love of performing, anywhere and everywhere, is unparalleled. Where there’s an audience, there’s a will to do what he does and do it very well.

Born and raised in Peterborough, Wilfong’s passion for music was kindled at age 8 in church choir settings. A year later, he added the drums and guitar to his musical arsenal, forming his first band at age 11 before honing his talents through high school when, at age 17, he came away a winner from the Canadian Jazz Stage Band Festival, earning all-star drummer status in the process.

Wilfong subsequently took his talent across Canada and the United States, as well as overseas to Germany and The Netherlands. Comfortable with most any music genre, he has performed with Jack Bailey, Joe Henderson, Lisle, Highway and Blindstone Bridge, to name but a few. If that’s not impressive enough, he has shared stages with The Kentucky Headhunters, Rosanne Cash, The Good Brothers, Valdy, Burton Cummings and the late Jeff Healey.

Despite a busy performance schedule, one undeniable truth has remained a constant – Wilfong has never forgotten where he comes from. That has not only brought him numerous collaborations with local musicians such as Danny Bronson, Barry Haggarty and Cyril Rawson, but also benefitted numerous local organizations and charities. Simply put, Wilfong has rarely, if ever, said ‘No’ to gifting his talents to the benefit of this cause or that.

The list of benefactors of Wilfong’s charitable ways is long and varied: the United Way, the Children’s Aid Society, Activity Haven, the Canadian Cancer Society, The Festival of Trees, the Peterborough Regional Health Centre and the Peterborough arts community…the list goes on and on. The homeless, the hungry and the disenfranchised among us have had their plight eased as a result of Wilfong’s unwavering commitment to their wellbeing.

Just as he soaked up music at a young age, many a young aspiring musician has benefitted from Wilfong’s willingness to mentor them. For a number of years, he has taught music lessons, no doubt passing on the most important lesson of all in the process – love the music and the rest will fall into place.

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

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