Inductees

When David Carley puts pen to paper, there’s a pretty good chance the words that result will take on new life in the form of a play, be it produced for stage, radio or television.

With more than 450 productions having sprung from his storytelling acumen, Mr. Carley has won, or been nominated for, a number of honours including The Governor General’s Award (Writing With Our Feet, finalist), The Arthur Miller Award from the University of Michigan, the New York International Radio Festival Award, and several Dora Mavor Moore Awards. In 2012, for his significant and sustained contributions to theatre in Ontario, Mr. Carley took home the Maggie Bassett Award.

Born and raised in Peterborough, Dave Carley wrote Susanna! for the Peterborough Theatre Guild in 1979 while a student at the University of Toronto. His musical spoof based on the life of Susanna Moodie marked the beginning of a writing career spanning the next 40 years. In 1985, Mr. Carley’s play Hedges, staged by the Guild, represented Canada at an international theatre festival in Japan. He has also written plays staged by Peterborough-based New Stages Theatre.

Beginning in 1990, Carley was the radio drama script editor for CBC and continues to write for the Corporation. He was script editor for the Wendy Lill drama series Backbencher, and wrote three second-season episodes.

More recently, Dave Carley wrote Canadian Rajah based on the life of Esca Brooke Daykin, the eldest son of Charles Brooke, the second White Rajah of Sarawak. It premiered in January 2019 at Toronto’s Campbell House. Prior, Mr. Carley’s work about the death penalty, Twelve Hours, premiered in March 2014 at the Garden Theatre in Columbus, Ohio and, in 2016 his stage adaptation of Al Purdy’s novel A Splinter In The Heart was premiered by the Festival Players of Prince Edward County.

An active member of numerous organizations, including the Playwrights Guild of Canada and Amnesty International, Dave Carley founded Friends of Freddy, an association formed for the appreciation of the Freddy the Pig series of books by Walter Brooks. He’s also the founding editor of the Playwright Guild of Canada’s magazine CanPlay, and serves as chair of the dance and opera divisions for the Dora Mavor Moore Awards.

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

A retired computer science professor at Sir Sandford Fleming College, Al Tye has been a dedicated volunteer with the Peterborough Theatre Guild (PTG).

He directed 13 productions between 1980 and 2010, enjoying outstanding success with Proof (2008). ln more than forty years of association with the PTG he was connected with no fewer than 170 productions, serving as mentor, producer, director, actor and set designer.

He also served as founding Artistic Director for the Whispers Dinner Theatre, directing 14 productions. He was a professional set designer for Arbor Theatre, and for the Kawartha Summer Theatre in Lindsay.

ln 2005, the Market Hall Theatre named Al Tye as one of Peterborough’s ‘Greatest 100 in the Performing Arts.’

In the early part of this century, no one was more important to a community than a family doctor. Doctor Donald Munro met all medical requirements in the village of Warsaw and area, adding much more to the vitality of the community.

Dr. Munro opened his Warsaw practice in 1907. A time when house calls were the norm, he braved all kinds of weather to attend to more than 3,000 births over a 50 year period.

Reaching out to the heart of the community, Dr. Munro served as Church Elder, and Sunday School Superintendent at St. Andrew’s Church for over 25 years.

A self-taught violinist, he shared his love of music by teaching and conducting a local concert orchestra and, as an ardent political activist, he served as president of the East Peterborough Liberal Association.

Artist, activist and academic – when it comes to expressing his views, particularly leading the call for a change in attitudes around equity and inclusion for members of the 2SLGBTQ community, Spencer J. Harrison’s voice and influence has soundly resonated in a very big way.

Having attained a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Queen’s University (1987), a Master of Arts from Trent University (2003) and, most recently, his Doctor of Philosophy from the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (2014), Harrison, in 2014, completed The Freak Show: A Painted Autoethnographic Exploration of Growing Up Gay in Rural Ontario in the 1960s – Canada’s first painted doctoral dissertation.

Positioning artists in the academic world as knowledge creators, Harrison’s art is exhibited and collected across Canada and beyond the country’s borders. His art has been referenced in the House of Commons as part of the effort to change more than 70 laws to provide more inclusion for the 2SLGBTQ community.

Harrison was the founding director of Camp fYrefly, a Trent University-based leadership retreat for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans-identified, two-spirited, intersexed, queer, questioning and allied youth. Under his leadership, the camp combined arts-based and Indigenous knowledge and practices to help youth build strong positive identities, moving away from self-harm issues in the process.

Exhibitions of Harrison’s work date back several years, his thought-provoking work displayed at galleries in Toronto, Belleville, Milton and Ottawa. Confirmed for this winter at the Art Gallery of Peterborough, at which Spencer is the artist mentor for youths planning to pursue the medium at the post-secondary level, is his newest exhibition, Does It Give You The Gay.

For more than 12 years now, Harrison has taught at Toronto’s Ontario College of Art and Design (OCAD) University, specializing in courses that explore subject matter and the value of the makers of their crafts. During his time at OCAD, he has been honoured with the Non-Tenured Teaching Award and the BLG Equity Teaching Award. Earlier, he served as artist-in-residence at Trent University in 1994-1995.

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

Describing what she does so very well as “an extraordinary privilege and a daunting responsibility,” Ann Douglas has been, and remains, celebrated as Canada’s foremost writer on all things parenting.

The author of numerous books about pregnancy and parenting as well as the creator of The Mother Of All book series that has seen more than half a million copies sold, Ann’s knowledge, insight and advice has calmed the often stormy waters for parents and parents-to-be across North America.

In addition to her books, Ann has written more than 1,000 pregnancy and parenting articles for a number of respected publications including Canadian Living, Today’s Parent, The Globe and Mail, The Toronto Star, The Chicago Tribune and Canadian Family, whose former editor-in-chief has praised her as “Canada’s most trusted parenting writer.” Ann has also contributed to a number of anthologies about motherhood as well as earned praise as a passionate and inspiring speaker, delivering keynote addresses and leading workshops at conferences across the country.

When she’s not putting pen to paper, Ann volunteers her time with a variety of projects and causes, currently sitting on the national editorial board of the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, and a member of the social media team for the Canadian Red Cross.

Several honours have come Ann’s way, including a Lifetime Membership from the Professional Writers’ Association of Canada in recognition of her contributions to the freelance writing profession – just the second writer given that distinction. And in spring 2012, Ann was one of 16 Canadians invited to Rideau Hall in Ottawa to discuss family policy with then governor-general David Johnston and his wife Sharon.

Currently the host of online conversations on parenting and mental health issues, Ann’s most recent book, Parenting Through The Storm: How To Handle The Highs, The Lows and Everything In Between, provides further evidence of her belief that writers can change the world by sharing ideas that can fuel social change.

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.

There’s a story familiar to Canadians, that of a young leaving Newfoundland to seek a better life in Ontario and beyond. Some abandon their roots. Special ones fight to keep the essence of their small, tight-knit birth places in their souls. Reg Benoit came to Ontario to build a future in music, but he never forgot the intrinsic value of individual human beings he learned about in Stephenville.

Typical of many musicians, Reg created a steady, if unspectacular career. He did well enough to garner acclaim, although not enough to quit his day job.

Then, in 1998, Reg’s world came to an abrupt halt. A serious spinal cord injury sustained at his day job forced him to pursue music fulltime and fine-tune his passion for life, and people. The unexpected tragedy became a new direction in service to others through music, and a deeper understanding of how life will work out. He’s performed tirelessly entertaining seniors, the sick, and in aid of notable lists of fundraising projects, large and small, public and personal. His music benefited St. John’s Children’s Hospital and Sick Kids Hospital in Toronto. He devoted time and energy to native groups and, when Canada’s last surviving Father of Confederation, Joey Smallwood, ran into financial difficulties writing his History of Newfoundland, Reg was there to help.

Along the way, Reg became a pastor in order to touch people in the darker corners where even music cannot reach. Reg Benoit is a symbol of those for whom music is not a road to riches, but a challenging path to the hearts of people.

Arnold (Arn) ALLEN has served the Scouting Movement for over a half century.  His dedication is unparalleled and has been a large part of the backbone of Kawartha Waterways Area (formerly Peterborough District).  Arn’s wife, Lenore ALLEN, has also given over a half century to Scouting, and continues to render further dedications.  This Scouter has taken every challenge presented to her, with an attitude and fortitude of “let’s get moving, there’s work to be done.”  Arnold and Lenore ALLEN truly deserve the title “Mr.&.Mrs. Scouting” because they personify the scout law spirit.

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.

In Canada, we’re undergoing a dramatic and revolutionary change in primary care delivery of medicine. Is it for the better? Many would argue it isn’t. Others argue it’s the way of the future based on the realities we face in today’s society. What’s certain, is that there are generations to come who’ll not know what it is to have a family doctor.

That’s why the people of Apsley treasure a friend named Wag Reyes.

Dr. W.E. Reyes has been the family doctor in Apsley area for many years; long enough to know thousands of patients and family members on a first-name basis. Dr. Reyes’ career stands as a symbol of a uniquely personal approach to primary care. His practice covers a large area of Central Ontario because he ignored quotas and ratios, and rarely turned down new patients. He’s been one of a rare breed who calls patients directly. and believes in follow up. Wag represents something we’re losing in today’s medicine – namely, a primary care provider who follows patients throughout their lives. One wonders too, about the continued existence of many small Ontario communities without a consistent primary care provider.

Wag Reyes is a committed family man and community member. His service combines science, technology, hands-on experience, a personal touch and an unflinching sense of personal morality. Our inductee remains the essence of what many believe medicine should still be.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For Gene Canning, it seems art is more than intriguingly executed images on canvas. Indeed, he skillfully nurtures the dormant creativity within each student almost as an extension of himself. His ability to do so, has enhanced Gene’s artistic acceptance as an artist worldwide.

One of his paintings currently hangs in the Rideau Hall exhibit among Canada’s permanent art collection.
Expanding his compulsion to share the appreciation of art utilizing modern communicative tools, Gene Canning created and hosted ‘Journeys of an Artist,’ a weekly national PBS Network television program that aired from 2003 through 2008.

Sharing his talent on a more individual level, he teaches art at a Children’s Summer Camp, a senior’s group as well as an advanced plain art course each fall.

Mr. Canning has been especially supportive of those with special needs, assisting them to develop their artistic abilities. So great has been his influence, and his teaching skills, that a good many of his students have gone on to enjoy a tremendous measure of success in the world of art.

Gene Canning’s artistic accomplishments have earned him global recognition which has made his career the subject of TV documentaries, high profile interviews and studies. He is, at present engaged in an art project retracing the trails of Tom Thompson to commemorate the famous Canadian’s Centenary (1917).

It can be stated with considerable pride, that Gene Canning’s artistic pursuits will continue to spotlight the Peterborough area as his home and workplace for many years to come.

• Photo courtesy of Mike Lacey, Metroland

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

For many years, Gwen Brown was a major contributor to the growth and vitality of live theatre in Peterborough. She was involved in forming the Peterborough Theatre Guild, which came about as an amalgamation of several theatre groups, including St. John’s Players, with whom Gwen had been previously involved.

In 1964, Gwen directed ‘Ah! Wilderness,’ the first production of a newly-formed Guild. Since that beginning, she performed as director or actor in dozens of Guild productions. As well, she worked with Arbor Theatre, a professional company that ran for many years. Along the way, her teaching skills and creative enthusiasms have been an inspiration for countless theatre devotees.

Gwen Brown passed away in 2013, in her 92nd year. More than a year after her passing, Gwen’s fellow models from the famed 2004 Flood Relief Calendar gathered to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the flood, and the tremendous community strength, determination and generosity that helped a community both weather the storm, and champion a comeback. Gwen Brown, on display in glorious black and white, was there in spirit…

• Photo courtesy of Lois Tuffin, Peterborough This Week / Metroland / MYKawartha

An inability to say ‘No’ has been, and remains, a characteristic common to all Pathway of Fame inductees, past and present. Indeed, for Paul Rellinger, the word is simply not part of his vocabulary.

Since moving to Peterborough in 1989, Paul has jumped at the opportunity to lend his well-respected written and spoken voice, organizing skills, and near compulsive desire to simply help in any way he can. Initially, opportunities to become involved were a byproduct of his 27 years as an editor and weekly columnist with Peterborough This Week. However, upon his retirement in 2016 Paul has continued to put his hand up when the call is made.

Currently the board chair of Peterborough Musicfest and a member of the campaign cabinet for the United Way of Peterborough and District, Paul has also served as honourary chair of Peterborough Family Literary Day since 2011 – a natural fit with his time as an adult learning tutor with the Trent Valley Literacy Association. When Paul was asked in 2012 by the United Way to camp out on the roof of The Brick for 48 hours as a campaign fundraiser in partnership with Peterborough Cares, what was a one-off lark became Relly On The Roof that raised thousands of dollars for Habitat For Humanity over the next seven years.

A past president of the Kinsmen Club of Peterborough, Paul has served on the boards of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Peterborough, the John Howard Society, and Showplace Performance Centre as well as time sitting on a number of committees. For nine years, he helped plan the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade – telling anyone who questioned his non-Irish roots that his real name is Fitzrelly.

Now a freelance writer, Paul’s self-admitted biggest joy lies in stepping up to help those in need. He has emceed numerous benefits for needful members of the local music community that he loves and, just last year in tandem with fellow inductee David Goyette, organized and produced Peterborough Performs: Musicians Against Homelessness, a live music showcase that raised more than $30,000 for the city’s most vulnerable.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

His vast reputation of never the narrow-minded or exclusionary cleric is legend in this area. His birth, and raising on a farm in Norwood may have had a lot to do with his ecumenical viewpoint on life.

‘Father Leo,’ or just plain ‘Leo’ to those who know him, has pastored the wider community, intellectually and spiritually, in life’s happy and sad moments without distinction. His greatest legacy is one of inclusion and genuine love and respect for all. Believers and non-believers have found in him one who is consoling, stimulating and collaborative.

Few clergy spend as much time visiting the sick at PRHC including those in Palliative Care, providing comfort to patients and family members during their difficult moments.

His life has been one of a lifelong search and study not only of spirituality but also of modern scientific cosmology.
Father Leo has an active internet presence (at Leospot.ca) where one can keep in touch with his thinking, read his Sunday homilies and read articles of interest from other contributors.

He has worked among leaders of all denominations and held workshops on difficult questions, such as death and dying. His secular community interests have seen him serve on the Board of Directors for Big Brothers and Big Sisters, organizing a commercial softball league and an industrial hockey league.

Father Leo Coughlin can be best described as a man who is loved by many – a happy and a humble man, a generous, spiritual and social man, and an all-inclusive person, – embodying all those qualities to which many aspire but few attain.

As a banjo player and the leader of the ‘Millbrook Barnyard Preservation Band’ from 1973 to 2012, Jim ‘Fearless’ Flood made it his mission to bring his highly entertaining brand of music to as many people as possible in the Peterborough region and beyond.

Typically at no cost, Jim brought his volunteer band to retirement homes, Legions, and Navy and Air Force clubs in an area stretching from Toronto to Trenton and north to the Kawarthas.

Always willing to lend a hand, Jim also built, and presented numerous floats for parades for Canada Day, Frontier Day and The Yuletide in both Peterborough and Millbrook. And, as The Great Zucchini, Jim entertained countless children with both his magic and his music.

An excellent banjo player gifted with perfect pitch, Jim’s legacy is a lifetime of selfless giving of himself, his good humour and his musical gifts to thousands, young and old and all ages in between.

Jim ‘Fearless’ Flood passed away in 2015 at age 80.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

It never ceases to amaze how great accomplishments arise from small beginnings.

Many years ago, when Belmont Townships single-room school experienced difficulty keeping a teacher for an entire school year, Don Clark decided to get involved. That led to almost 40 years of public service to the Peterborough area. Don’s first love has always been the betterment of educational opportunities for young people. For close to four decades, he served on various school boards, including two terms as Chair of Peterborough County Board of Education.

Not confining his volunteering solely to education, he’s been Gideon Bible Society member, board of governors member of Civic Hospital, Citizens’ Advisory Committee at Warkworth Institution, Crowe Valley Conservation Authority, Peterborough Housing Authority and Havelock-Belmont-Methuen Police Services Board. He served municipally as councilor, and reeve for Belmont-Methuen. Don has also been a volunteer driver for Canadian Cancer Society and Havelock Community Care.

In recognition of his incredible community involvement, Don was awarded the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal for public service. For 40 years, if Don Clark had any spare time, you can be assured we were the beneficiaries of it.

Longtime member of Warsaw & District Lions Club, Cecil gave freely of his time and talent to raise funds for a number of local causes.  He was instrumental in constructing the band shell at Warsaw Lions Park and organizing a series of charitable concerts performed there.  Believed to be the last steam-powered sawmill operator in Ontario, Cecil volunteered his expertise to help establish a viable lumber industry on the Island of Dominica.

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

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

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

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

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

Much of our City’s stature owes its existence to Sylvia Sutherland who saw, in its past, its future attractiveness.
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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.

Dignity, dedication, caring and good, old-fashioned hard work is characteristic of a life, well-lived.

Alta Whitfield demonstrated these qualities and more in whatever pursuit she followed.  With strong ties to family and church, Alta served as an educator in Peterborough area schools, and at Fleming College.  She thrived as a successful business person.

Her resume of community service includes tireless volunteer hours in the fields of education, health care and cultural history.  In many aspects of her life, Alta was a pioneer.  She’s the only woman, in over 170 years, to serve on North Monaghan Township Council and, later, as Reeve.  She’s also the first woman to chair the Peterborough Civic Hospital Board of Directors.

For her dedication to a long life of service, Alta was awarded a fellowship by Fleming College, and a nomination as the YWCA Woman of the Year.

It’s one thing to be blessed with abundant musical and theatrical talent. It’s quite another, to unselfishly share that talent to the betterment of one’s community.

From an early age, it was very clear that Kate Suhr had a musical gift, prompting her subsequent study of musical theatre at PCVS, and opera at Western University – on her way to attaining a Bachelor of Contemporary Music degree from Humber College.

Locally, Kate has performed lead roles with the Peterborough Theatre Guild, the St. James’ Players and New Stages Theatre. For more than 10 years, our inductee starred in Beth McMaster’s Legendary Icon Series at Showplace, helping raise thousands of dollars for the downtown performance venue.

During the COVID-19 pandemic which began in late 2019, when so many were in need of a lift, Kate Suhr collaborated with her good friend and 2021 Pathway of Fame inductee Megan Murphy to create The Verandah Society, a song-and-storytelling performance that brought joy to people’s lives right where they live. Many of their performances were fundraisers for various causes. In 2021, The Verandah Society was staged professionally at 4th Line Theatre.

Beyond Peterborough, Kate’s artistic footprint has been equally substantial and impressive. She starred in The Little Mermaid and Mary Poppins at Toronto’s Lower Ossington Theatre, as well as worked alongside a number of top Canadian artists in Podium Concert Productions’ The Secret Garden and Nine. Musically, Kate has performed at the Boots and Hearts Festival, and worked alongside Blue Rodeo, as well as Natalie McMaster and Donnell Leahy. A talented songwriter, Kate Suhr has recorded her own music, including the single Better Off Together in late 2021. Her YouTube videos have garnered more than 50,000 views and counting.

While her work has seen her divide her time between Peterborough and Toronto, Kate has always been first in line to perform in support of local causes – a long list that includes Peterborough Performs: Musicians Against Homelessness. A member of the Peterborough Theatre Guild Board of Directors, Kate recently put together a fundraising show to help the company get back onto its post-pandemic feet.

As busy as she is on stages both near and distant, Kate Suhr is a volunteer with Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Peterborough – further evidence of her inspiring concern for the well-being of others, ahead of her own.

Ivy Sucee has fought zealously to keep alive the story of the Barnardo Home Children, the child emigrants of whom 9,000 came through Peterborough between 1883 and 1923. She has helped countless people gain access to Barnardo records in England and learn fresh details about the history of their ancestor who was a home child.

Her own father was a Barnardo home child and since 1995, she searched for information about Barnardos, which still operates in the United Kingdom handling adoptions and after care, but not emigration.

Her efforts have had some impact. A 1999 plaque summarizing the history of Hazelbrae, the Barnardo home and distribution centre, stands on a lawn near George Street. A dramatic monument listing the names of all who came through Peterborough stands on Barnardo Avenue on the lawn of Queen Alexandra school. To create that list was a major undertaking, for which Ivy Sucee recruited researchers and historians.

The Hazelbrae Barnardo Monument was unveiled on the inaugural Ontario British Home Child Day, September 28, 2011.

Ivy was a 25 year volunteer with the Peterborough Exhibition and helped produce their 1995 history of the fair.

She received several honours, including a city Lifetime Achievement Award and the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal.

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.