Inductees

Erica Cherney, quite simply, never gave up…

Never gave up volunteering. Never gave up giving of her time and expertise to causes she felt made the community a better place. Never gave up despite a sign hanging in her office which read “Stop me before I volunteer again!” There is no end to the many stories of Erica’s generosity that has left an indelible altruistic mark all over Peterborough and surroundings.

A contribution to Trent University was met with the University bestowing upon her an honourary degree for her good works.

In 2000 Erica Cherney was named Citizen of the Year, an honour among a multitude of other City, and Provincial awards.

The Erica Cherney Inspiration Fund was established by the CCRC in 2006 in recognition of her leadership and community service. Peterborough area people donated over $100,000 to the fund, inspired by Erica’s generosity and compassion. The immediate, as well as lasting result of these funds was support of practical, helpful services and solutions such as homeless prevention funds, art therapy programs for women who had experienced violence, counselling services and local community gardens.

Her provision of economical office space for charitable organizations trying to get started, helped many fledgling groups.

When Erica Cherney was named Vice-Chair of TV Ontario, a particular focus was brought to our City.

There is no doubt Peterborough and surrounding communities are much better places because of her vision, caring and involvement. Erica Chereny was one-of-a-kind, and we are the better for it.

Erica Cherney passed away on August 16th, 2016 at the age of 84. She was aware of her nomination to The Pathway of Fame, but passed away just prior to her formal induction.

• Photo courtesy of Red Pashmina

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.

For close to 40 years, Barb and her husband, Allen served as foster parents for the Kawartha Haliburton Children’s Aid Society.  She was also actively involved with the Foster Parent Association of Ontario, working extensively to balance the rights of foster parents and the rights of foster children.  For many years, she hosted the ‘Good & Country’ show on Trent Radio and is one of the founding members of the Peterborough Pathway of Fame.

Barbara Beck, octogenarian, was a well-respected leader in the community for over fifty years. She was a strong advocate of consumer and social justice causes, and contributed to the arts community in countless ways.

Mrs. Beck also sat on committees and councils at the local, provincial and national levels. She believed, “… what matters is what you do for your fellow man.”

She served with the Consumers Association of Canada as local president, provincial president and national vice-president. Barbara, together with her late husband Dick, were stalwarts of the Peterborough Theatre Guild, locally and provincially. She also served on several boards such as Peterborough’s Social Service Council; the Peterborough Memorial Centre; the Social Planning Council; Community Care Peterborough, and the Ontario Community Support Association.

She received many honours over her lifetime, including the City’s Community Betterment Award, and she was made a Paul Harris Fellow by the Rotary Club.

Barbara Beck was a tireless volunteer for the betterment of Peterborough, and its people.

Barbara Beck passed in March, 2018 in her 90th year.

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

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

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

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

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.

Del Crary’s life can be divided in two halves: first half as Peterborough’s most famous musician; second half as Peterborough’s most famous broadcaster. A talented saxophonist and arranger Del, at age 12, joined his first band. During World War II, Del worked with Canadian Army bands, entertaining troops overseas. On returning to Peterborough, he led his own band or played with such Peterborough stalwarts as Bobby Kinsman and Jimmy Duffus.

In 1947, Del joined CHEX Radio (now 100.5 FRESH FM), becoming the region’s most famous ‘morning man.’ He subsequently worked with CKPT (now ENERGY 99.7 FM), then with CKQM (now Country 105) until his death in 1978.

A 30 year broadcasting career made Del Crary a legend.

Actively involved in community service, especially the Easter Seals Campaign, Del was named Citizen of the Year. He would go on to help establish the Arts & Water Festival, the forerunner of today’s ‘MusicFEST’ held each summer in the park which now bears his name.

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

For a true actor, performance isn’t simply something you do at an appointed time, at an appointed place. For a free spirit performance, like a stage of life, knows no boundaries. It’s in the air, like breath itself. When boundlessness of performance comes to mind, so too does the memory of Alan Nunn.

Alan began his life pursuit, on stage, by attending the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London following World War II. An acting life took him all over Britain and North America. He trod the boards for such illustrious companies as The Old Vic, Birmingham Repertory Company and both Stratford and Shaw Festivals, to name a few. He served as house manager at O’Keefe Centre, and taught theatre at Seneca College. Settling in Peterborough, he utilized performance as a means of engaging community members. Alan founded the Lakefield Readers Theatre, taught Shakespeare, read to seniors, wrote the historical mystery ‘M’Kenzie’s Cloak’ for young people, and recorded books for the CNIB.

Alan Nunn’s love of theatre and performance is an inherent part of his spirit and life force. For Alan, the stage wasn’t a division that divided performer from audience. Rather, it was a river that joined all of us in the flow of life.

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

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

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

Bravo, Peggy!

When it comes to the immeasurable level of giving, and support that John and Paul Downs have provided the local community, the challenge lies in finding an organization or cause that hasn’t benefitted from their kindness.

Raised in Toronto, John graduated from Queen’s University with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. He started his career in marketing, first with Northern Telecom and then GTE Automatic Electric.

Paul, meanwhile, obtained his teaching certificate from Lakeshore Teachers College in Toronto and then his BA from Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo. For 15 years, he taught elementary school, eventually serving as a vice-principal and principal while attaining his Master of Education degree in educational administration from the University of Toronto.

In 1979, following the passing of his father Ed, John became the general manager of Durham Telephones Limited and Docon Telephone Supplies Limited before negotiating the purchase of Otonabee Municipal Telephone Systems in 1983. Close to 15 years later, John and Paul purchased cable TV assets from Shaw and the telecommunications conglomerate Nexicom was born.

Before the brothers sold Nexicom in 2017, some 1,000 people worked at the company’s offices in Millbrook, Peterborough, Lakefield and Lindsay while annual revenues went through the roof, climbing to an impressive $34.1 million in 2016.

While their business success and acumen is admirable on its own, it’s the Downs brothers’ incomparable giving spirit that sets them apart. In 2017 alone, benefactors of their philanthropy included the New Canadians’ Centre, the Peterborough Humane Society, Hospice Peterborough, the Peterborough Dragon Boat Festival, 4th Line Theatre, YMCA Peterborough, Special Olympics and Peterborough Musicfest, to name but a few. Since taking over the family business all those years ago, it’s estimated that John and Paul have donated more than $1 million to area charities and not-for-profits.

In addition, both have sat on numerous boards – 4th Line Theatre and Fleming College among the many organizations that have benefited from their involvement, and input.

A number of commendations and awards have come their way, including honours from the Peterborough Business Advisory Centre, Peterborough Economic Development, the Township of Cavan Monaghan, and the bestowing of top business excellence awards in Peterborough and Lindsay. Just this past May, the County of Peterborough honoured John and Paul with its Business Leadership/Entrepreneurial Innovation Award.

In telecommunications industry circles, both John and Paul have been major players. The Ontario Telecommunications Association made John a lifetime member in 1999. Paul is a past-president of the Independent Telecommunications Providers Association and the Canadian Independent Telephone Association. And, in 2009, John and Paul received Career Service Awards from the Telecommunications Hall of Fame for their contributions to the telecom industry.

• Photo courtesy of Clifford Skarstedt, The Peterborough Examiner

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.

As The Beatles were to ‘60’s generation, so were ‘The Dumbells’ to a generation at the first quarter of the 20th Century.  Formed to entertain troops during World War I, The Dumbbells became Canada’s first musical super-group, going on to great success as a vaudeville act following the War.

One of the founding members of The Dumbells, was Peterborough’s Morley Plunkett.  As vocalist, musician and comedic actor, Morley Plunkett was instrumental in popularizing such unforgettable standards as ‘Pack Up Your Troubles’ and ‘It’s A Long Way To Tipperary.’

Being in it for ‘the long haul’ has been a characteristic long sought by the Pathway of Fame. When talking about longevity in the music business, there’s no finer example than Jersey Joe Henderson – a fixture on the Peterborough entertainment scene for more than 40 years.

His career represented, in many ways, a history of musical entertainment in Peterborough. From his early days as part of such groups as The Sonics and The Emeralds, to his later work at venerable landmarks as the New Grand Hotel, The Ship and Shore, the Commercial and Montreal House, Joe charmed audiences with his talent and personality. He was one of the first artists signed to play Havelock Jamboree, sharing the stage with a remarkable list of notables, including Ronnie Hawkins, Merle Haggard and Colleen Peterson. Over the years, Joe gave freely of his time and talent in aid of worthy causes, too numerous to mention, but especially, worked with palliative care patients through Red Cross.

To be Peterborough’s longest standing full time musician means you must have done something right. In keeping an audience entertained, Jersey Joe Henderson wrote the book on doing it right.

A self-made entrepreneur for the past 27 years, Jeannine Taylor has backed her vision with substance as the founder, CEO and publisher of kawarthaNOW.com – the only independent Kawarthas media company owned, and operated by a woman.

Born and raised in Peterborough, Taylor graduated from Fleming College in arts administration and marketing, working for several local arts organizations before becoming marketing director for Lansdowne Place.

After toiling for the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area and serving as managing editor for three local magazines, Taylor’s visionary recognition of the emerging importance of the Internet as a communications platform led to her launch quidnovis.com, the local region’s first ‘electronic’ magazine and, later, Quid Novis Internet Productions, a website development and hosting company with hundreds of clients.

By the early 2000s, as numerous entities became embroiled in the online media frenzy by developing their own websites and related Internet presence, Taylor saw the writing on the wall for Quid Novis, and decided to pivot. In 2006, she re-launched quidnovis.com as kawarthaNOW.com, a digital media company focused on local community, business and arts/entertainment news.

Serving Peterborough, the Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland, Hastings and Haliburton, kawarthaNOW.com now boasts more than 72,000 regular readers, 13,800 weekly e-news subscribers and more than 70,000 followers on social media.

As committed as she is to her business and to her clients, Taylor has consistently gifted her time to support and mentor other women in business. She has been a member of the Women’s Business Network since 1987, a founding member of 100 Women Peterborough, and served on the committee for Inspire: The Women’s Portrait Project Gala in 2018.

Truth be known, Taylor’s board and committee work resumé is too vast to include in its entirety – but suffice to say countless organizations, and their clients, have benefitted from her insight, dedication and drive to succeed – as many have, thanks to her wise counsel.

Add to the mix kawarthaNOW.com’s sponsorship of numerous local non-profits that provides far-reaching, invaluable promotion of their respective programs and initiatives.

Named Peterborough Business Woman of the Year in 2005, Taylor has brought home a boatlload of other awards and honours. The recipient of two Peterborough Chamber Business Excellence Awards – in 2011 for Best Micro Business, and 2013 for Entrepreneurial Spirit, Taylor was a finalist for the Kawartha Chamber’s Entrepreneur Innovation Award in 2018. That same year saw then-MP Maryam Monsef present Taylor the Peterborough-Kawartha Women’s Leadership Award.

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.

Dick Beck was well-known in Peterborough for his day job, as engineer at Canadian General Electric, and for his work with the Peterborough Utilities Commission. But if truth be known, his true passion, was connected to  theatre.

For over 30 years, Dick was an active member of PTG, serving in many capacities. He directed six full-length plays and one children’s play. He penned music and lyrics for about a dozen children’s plays which have been performed in many parts of Canada as well as here at home, at the Guild.

As well, Dick logged time undertaking set design, set construction, production and stage management. In an administrative capacity, he served on the Executive and Board of the Guild as President, Treasurer and Chairman.

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.

For close to 30 years, Fred Anderson worked tirelessly to make Peterborough and the Kawarthas one of Canada’s most vibrant music and tourism centres.

In the early 1970’s, recognizing the immense drawing power of Little Lake, Fred was instrumental, along with Del Crary in establishing The Arts & Water Festival. By 1987, Fred began devoting time and energy to the creation of The Peterborough Summer Festival of Lights, which has since evolved into MusicFest. Under his guidance, The Festival of Lights became a unique event in Canada, featuring some of the top names in Canadian Music, and North America’s first synchronized illuminated boat show.

The Festival attracts over 100,000 visitors, from around the world to Del Crary Park, making the festival the number one tourist draw in the Kawarthas. For his efforts, Fred Anderson was previously honoured with awards such as Peterborough’s Citizen of the Year, and Tourism Ambassador of Ontario.

Fred Anderson died February 20th, 2006.

A photographer is a truly magical artist.  With a camera, the photographer can freeze a moment in time that generations, to come, can hold in their hands.  Frederick Roy was a photographic artist who literally made time stand still.
From teenage years until his death in 1950, Frederick Roy devoted his entire life to photography while working in the family photography studio.  Peterborough residents are familiar with what’s known as the Roy Collection.  A collection of over 400,000 photographic images, lovingly and precisely documenting life in Peterborough area from late 19th century to the mid-20th century.  As well, Mr. Roy’s reputation spread beyond the Peterborough area.  His photography of Kings George V and George VI gained acclaim throughout Europe, and his portraits of Sir John A. Macdonald’s funeral and Jack Miner’s bird sanctuary are now part of Canada’s historical record.

Through his creativity and eye for detail, Frederick Roy’s photography gave us a precious gift.  What he gave was not only a piece of our history, but also a piece of our soul.

For many, the true test of life well-lived, is the capacity to make mole hills out of mountains. To be a respected entertainer, songwriter and tireless community volunteer are true enough achievements on their own. But along the way, John Morris has had to make the mountain of blindness into a mole hill.

John is a self-taught musician and songwriter who’s given selflessly of his time and talent to raise money for charities such as the Cancer Society, Easter Seals, The Heart & Stroke Foundation, Peterborough Food Bank and Peterborough Warming Room. John works extensively with CNIB, often going into schools to give young people a sense of what it’s like to live with blindness and work with a guide dog. To make life better for others, he works with Council for Persons with Disabilities, the Transportation Committee, and Access Awareness Committee.

In 1994, in recognition of his efforts, he was given the City of Peterborough Award of Merit. John is one of the founding members of the Pathway of Fame, which recognizes in others the qualities and achievements so evident in John himself.

John Morris is living proof each of us should face our unique challenges; the quality of our lives lay in who we become, and what we accomplish.

• photo courtesy Clifford Skarstedt, The Peterborough Examiner

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

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

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

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

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

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

Robert Rehder, professional engineer, enjoyed a stellar 47 year career with General Electric Canada, and retired to consulting work on high voltage switch gears and insulation systems. The Otonabee Region Conservation Authority has observed, “Mr. Rehder’s vision, leadership qualities, community pride, his skills and passion have provided opportunities for youth education in forest ecosystem management, for volunteer involvement in conservation, the restoration of the historic Hope Mill…” and more.

The Hope Mill was originally for carding and fulling but was converted to a sawmill in 1892. The task of restoring the mill was complex, as Rehder’s group fixed the foundations, repaired machinery and built a solar powered kiln for drying lumber, among countless other tasks. It took “time, energy and wisdom” to get this gem running again.

Rehder has won the Centennial Medal of the Institute of Electronic Engineers, the Engineering Excellence Award, and the Citizenship Award of the Ontario Society of Professional Engineers. The Hope Mill project itself won several heritage accolades in 2003 and 2004, including an award from the Ontario Heritage Foundation.

By way of her chosen profession and her volunteer pursuits, Helen Weichel committed herself long ago to making life better for countless others.

Upon graduating from St. Mary’s School of Nursing, Helen came to St. Joseph’s Hospital in 1960 before moving to what was then Civic Hospital, where she worked in many departments. Before retiring from Civic, she held a number of positions, including supervisor, and was very involved in the nurses’ association. Helen was the first recipient of the James McNabb Award, which recognized the community volunteer efforts of hospital staff.

As the leader of Cub Pack 17 based at St. Alban’s Church, Helen never missed an opportunity to involve her young charges in major events. When the Prime Minister, or Royalty visited, Peterborough Cub Pack 17 was front and centre. When medals were handed out at the Summer Games, Cub Pack 17 was involved. When Hugh Faulkner became Secretary of State, Helen brought Cub Pack 17 to Ottawa for a tour of the Parliament buildings, given personally by Faulkner. Long after her sons Greg and Tom moved on from Cub Pack 17, Helen stayed on, providing its members with unique opportunities while dedicating herself to their growth and development as good citizens.

With a passion for fostering recreational opportunities, Helen became involved with the Peterborough Recreational Association in 1970. She would play an instrumental role in the merging of the Peterborough Parks, and Recreation departments. In addition, Helen served with the Ontario Municipal Recreation Association, sitting as its chair for a period.

Helen’s guiding belief that recreational opportunities are essential for people of all ages saw her advocate relentlessly on behalf of the middle-aged, and seniors. In addition, she pushed for equality in terms of the allocation of sport facilities and resources, providing girls and women with the same opportunities to participate, as did boys and men.

An extension of that was Helen’s long tenure with ParticiPaction Peterborough, an organization dedicated to raising the level of personal fitness in Peterborough and the surrounding area. Helen was a member of the organization’s Sources and Resources Committee, charged with securing access to existing facilities, including schools, for fitness-related events. The committee also established a speakers’ bureau, produced brochures, and promoted existing and new fitness activities in local schools, including Trent University and Fleming College.

In 1977, the City of Peterborough recognized Helen’s unmatched efforts in the promotion of fitness and recreation, bestowing upon her its Award of Merit.

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.

It’s an interesting human characteristic: a few strains of melody quickly releases a flood of memories; the good times we had in our youth. Part of such cherished memory belongs to musicians who gave form to melody.

One name that’s long been associated with musical good times in Peterborough area is Paul ‘Streak’ Konkle.

Paul was, to many a musical genius who could write arrangements as easily as other mere mortals could write down phone numbers. For several decades, he was one of the most respected guitar teachers in Peterborough, enabling countless young musicians to set sail on their own careers.

Yet, is is through his performing talents, that most will remember Paul Konkle. Solo or part of a small, or large ensemble, Paul charmed audiences with his musical ease and craftsmanship. He excelled as a valued member of many legendary bands, coming out of bygone eras in our history; working with names such as George Novotny, Hal MacFarland, Bobby Kinsman and Del Crary. It was a time when Saturday nights meant fun with friends and up-close live music. That’s where Paul shone.

Whether it’s dancing at The Aragon or relaxing at The Algonquin, musical memory and Paul ‘Streak Konkle was part of our lives.

Even a most fleeting visit to the Peterborough & District Sports Hall of Fame will confirm the important role sports play, in Peterborough’s cultural life.  But would sports be as popular if the accomplishments of games weren’t reported with enthusiasm and clarity?  In Peterborough journalism, Cec Perdue set the bar for all sports reporters who’ve followed.

In 1931, Cec became The Peterborough Examiner’s first sports editor, serving as reporter and columnist for the next 37 years.  He covered area sporting events and those around Ontario and across Canada with any Peterborough connection.  For his writing, he earned a reputation as a fair, honest and respected reporter who genuinely understood, and appreciated athletes and athletic competition.

In recognition of his journalistic skills and his contribution to Peterborough community, he was given a Civic Award by the City in 1965.  Cec Perdue was inducted into the Peterborough & District Sports Hall of Fame in its founding year of 1980: a fitting tribute for one of Peterborough’s most fondly-remembered pioneers of journalism.

• Photo courtesy The Peterborough Examiner

In her native Germany, Freidel Washchuk learned needlework and weaving skills, making her one of Canada’s most compelling artists. On a world tour to promote her works, Friedel fell in love with the allure of the Canadian landscape and heritage, and moved to Canada. After working for a time in Toronto, she relocated to the Peterborough area, devoting herself to a remarkable passion as a tapestry artist.

Drawing on the natural beauty and history of the Kawarthas, Freidel Washchuk became the first weaver to serve as Artist-in-Residence at Trent University. Her tapestries have delighted patrons at galleries across Canada and Europe.

Connie Brummel Crook spent a great deal of her life proving, if you enjoy a good story, you needn’t go further than our own Canadian history.

For 30 years, Connie taught English in Peterborough and area schools. She launched one of Peterborough County’s first Reading Labs and tutoring program to assist younger students.

Upon retiring from teaching, she concentrated on a writing career; authoring a series of popular novels extolling Canadian history and heritage. Connie Brummel Crook is recognized by the International Reading Association for her creativity and faithfulness to historical accuracy.

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

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

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