Inductees

When Peterborough born-and-raised Doug Pearcy moved to Norwood with his wife Sandra in 1969 to begin work in the auto parts business, there was little, to no indication of what that would mean for the town east of Peterborough.

Over the 50 years since, Doug’s fingerprints have been all over many aspects of Norwood’s growth and development.

Mr. Pearcy sat on Peterborough County Council from 1992 to 2014, serving as Reeve of Asphodel-Norwood for six years and, in 1996, as County Warden. However, his contributions to his community have extended well beyond the political arena.

Doug has been a member of the Norwood Lions Club for 49 years, awarded a life membership by the service club for his outstanding service. In addition, for 39 years, Doug has been a member of Branch 300 of the Royal Canadian Legion and currently serves as Service Officer, helping veterans and their families secure benefits owed to them. And, having become a Mason in 1966, Doug has held a number of positions with that organization through his association with the Norwood Masonic Lodge.

With Mr. Pearcy serving as co-chair, Action 2000 saw the raising of $1.5 million towards the building of the Asphodel-Norwood Community Centre, which opened in 2003. When it was decided that a senior AAA hockey franchise would be an ideal tenant for the new arena, Doug was front-and center in that effort and, on most Sunday nights, sold 50-50 tickets at Vipers games, the proceeds of which supported a number of community projects.

Currently president of Hospice Norwood Incorporated, Doug is leading the effort to see that project become a reality. There’s no question his 14-year stint as chair of the Committee of Management for Fairhaven has served him well in that effort. Doug still sits on that committee as a member.

When Doug was presented with a community recognition award on July 1, 2016, there was no doubt his significant service to Norwood spoke precisely to why the late J.J. Stewart, created the award.

If Peterborough hasn’t already formally thanked CHNS-FM, it’s well past the time some form of appreciation is shown the Halifax radio station for giving a young Graham Hart a summer job.

In pursuit of an engineering degree at the time but bitten hard by the broadcasting bug, Graham left Dalhousie University after his third year and pursued radio full-time. A series of on-air positions in Nova Scotia followed before Graham moved to Ontario and worked at radio stations in Chatham, Hamilton and Niagara Falls before his acceptance, in 1973 of a job offer from CHEX Television in Peterborough. Hired as news anchor, Graham quickly became the face of CHEX. Before retiring in 2018, he had served as News Director, Assistant Television Program Director and executive vice-president of affiliated CHEX Radio.

As big an impact as Graham had on viewers’ daily lives via his news reports, and his hosting of specials, documentaries the long-running Campus Quiz  and Flashback programs, his work outside of the studio cemented his position as a community leader. Beyond volunteering his silky smooth delivery to the benefit of countless events and fundraisers as an emcee and guest speaker, Graham has worked tirelessly for a number of non-profit organizations. The Canadian Mental Health Association, the Peterborough Family Resource Centre, the Lakefield Animal Welfare Society, the Peterborough Festival of the Arts, the Community Foundation of Greater Peterborough, the Peterborough Pathway of Fame, and the Ontario March of Dimes are but just a few of his many volunteer affiliations. And then there’s his work for Easter Seals that has seen him appear as a regular on the annual telethon broadcast for no fewer than 47 years.

As one would expect, Graham has been duly honoured by a variety of organizations. Named a Paul Harris Fellow by Rotary International and a Melvin Jones Fellow by the Lions Club International Foundation, Graham was the first recipient of the Gordon Holnbeck Community Service Award and, in 2014, the City of Peterborough presented him with its prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award.

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.

It’s a widely-held truth, in the music business, that really successful groups gather together not to gain fame and fortune, but for the pure pleasure of making music.

That’s essentially how The Kountry Klassics became one of Peterborough’s most popular country groups. Back in the early 1990’s, a handful of musicians got together at one of their homes to jam and have fun playing old time country music. The sound produced was so good; they decided to ‘go public.’ Over an ensuing decade, the group underwent a few personnel changes until coming up with the mix they now have, in 1996.

With Don Stiver on steel, Paul Jones and Al Marshall on guitars, Jim Hobson on drums and Bonnie Irwin on vocals, the Kountry Klassics quickly made a name for themselves on the Peterborough music scene and have given selflessly of their time and talent in aid of numerous local causes.

Kim Blackwell’s love of the dramatic was ignited as a youth, nourished at Adam Scott High School as well as through involvement in the Peterborough Theatre Guild. Her appetite for live theatre was whetted too, at an All Saints Anglican Church youth group, ‘Kids Unlimited,’ which served to solidify the direction her life would take. And what a journey that was to be.

Kim studied with the best live theatre groups this country has to offer; then independently tried her hand in forming Black Well Productions to help shape her dramatic traits. Kim’s 10 years immersed in various positions at Peterborough’s Union Theatre definitely assisted in helping her determine the consuming love of theatre that would shape her future.

Kim Blackwell can now be accredited with being a veteran 4th Line director/producer as 2016 marks her 22nd season with the stalwart company.  During those years she directed no fewer than 15 productions including 5 world premieres. Her stage credits from managing, development workshops, innovative interaction and teaching of young talent with seasoned professionals, plus the lengthy list of productions, catalogue her artistic progress over the numerous years with 4th Line Theatre. Its founder, Robert Winslow (POF 2006) has discovered in Kim Blackwell that rare commitment which has permitted him to completely entrust to her the company’s artistic control while he devotes his energies to the time consuming research required to bring productions to life.

Kim Blackwell has received the Peterborough Historical Society’s J. Hampden Burnham Heritage Award as well as twice being nominated for the John Hirsch Award for directing excellence.

• Photo courtesy Mike Lacey, Peterborough This Week / Metroland / MYKawartha.com

There have been many words used to describe Washboard Hank Fisher’s performing talents. Words such as “unique,” “different,” “silly,” and “funny” come to mind. However, one word that’s never been used to describe Hank’s performance is “boring!”

With stylish blends of vintage Country Music, hillbilly, undeniably original songs, and heaping helpings of energy and humour, Hank Fisher charms and delights audiences across North America. His numerous appearances on radio, television, in clubs and at festivals prove his music and showmanship know no boundaries of age or social status. With his trusty Strad o’Various, he raised the lowly washboard to lofty heights of art form. With abiding reverence for the best tradition of music and humour, he’s truly become an original.

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

Back in the 1980’s, Robert Winslow began giving voice to the dream of establishing a theatre company that would present original plays dealing with local history, and staged in a barnyard! Needless to say, the original reaction was one of ‘suspended credulity.’

But Robert Winslow followed his dream and created 4th Line Theatre.

He invited the world, and the world came.

4th Line Theatre has evolved an imposing reality, not only coping with challenges facing an outdoor theatre, but facing the challenges inherent with dramatizing oft times uncomfortable themes: Catholic vs. Protestant, East vs. West, Rural vs. Urban, white vs. native.

And yet, from Day One, 4th Line Theatre has been truly unique and compelling. Whether as producer, director, writer, actor and always as Artistic Director, Robert consistently nailed the essence of drama, and the essence of conflict. Through portrayal of both sides of conflict, we’re afforded an opportunity to better understand our roots, ourselves, and others.

4th Line Theatre is now recognized across Canada, drawing patrons from around the world. Today it ranks as one of Kawarthas’ major tourism draws and has given a remarkable number of aspiring artists a chance to shine, just before sundown.

Sometimes with pathos, often with humour, but always with poignancy, Robert Winslow has held up, for us a rear- view mirror through which audiences can disappear, for a brief moment, into an elusive but welcome past…

There have been a number of studies done pointing to the generosity of Canadians who display, in amounts of time, devotion to volunteer work. It says a lot about Canadian character.

For Paul Lafond, volunteering is more than a full-time job. It speaks volumes about Paul Lafond’s character.

To put Paul’s volunteer work in perspective, he averages about 1,800 volunteer hours a year. A person who works 40 hours a week puts in about 1,700 hours per year. So Paul’s volunteer work is definitely into overtime!

His fundraising achievements are impressive, helping to raise money for the Cancer Society, Hospital for Sick Children and the International Prevention of Child Abuse, just to name a few. To date, he’s raised more money for the M.S. Society in Super Cities Walks than anyone in the Kawarthas.

Paul also finds time to drive seniors to appointments and shopping. He shovels their sidewalks in winter, cuts their grass in summer.

Paul Lafond’s community commitment is truly the essence of volunteerism. To make a difference, you don’t have to reinvent the wheel. You simply have to care enough to do something for someone. Paul’s monumental achievement has been to do what the rest of us just talk about doing.

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.

Part of the charm of living in a small community, such as Peterborough, is we get to know the local ‘characters’ by name and learn about their stories!

One such favourite character of Peterborough is Paul Henry MacFarland. He was affectionately known as “Half A Deck,” and made his living at odd jobs. Paul wasn’t a success in the conventional meaning of the word; he was, however, a success in making the most of what he did well, and that was marathon running.

Over the years Paul ran, walked or jogged in numerous marathons to raise tens of thousands of dollars in aid of causes such as the Canadian Cancer Society, Five Counties Childrens’ Centre, the Autistic Children, and Spina Bifida Associations. Towards the end of his life, after undergoing chemotherapy for lung cancer, Paul jogged from Toronto’s Princess Margaret Hospital to Peterborough, raising money for the Cancer Society as a thank-you for providing him transportation to, and from chemotherapy.

Paul MacFarland remains a shining example that caring is the greatest gift one person can give – and one person’s greatest accomplishment is making the most of the hand, which you are dealt.

In the Peterborough area, we are blessed with a rich tradition of Irish Music. Whether it’s jigs, reels or waltzes, there seems a spiritual quality to music that binds people together and, in those rare, magical moments binds fiddler to music.

Few personify that spiritual essence better than Albert Moher.

Known far and wide as ‘the fiddler from Douro,’ Albert came to music at an early age, spending his life sharing his talented gift of music. To Albert music, like love is truly a gift when shared. For more than a few years, Albert captivated listeners at weddings, wakes, community events, fairs and contests. With fiddle in hand, he gives generously of his time and talent to cheer those who live in nursing homes, seniors residences, at church services and celebrations, small and large. He has an uncanny ability to touch the heart with the strings of his fiddle. His repertoire, whether classical or traditional, borders on the monumental and his fame has spread well beyond the confines of his native Douro.

There was a time, not long ago, when the art of the fiddler and magic of timeless music was about to be a thing of the past. But in Albert Moher, the spiritual bond between musician and his music is a tradition that will live for years to come.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13

The news story printed in the Toronto Daily Star, Monday May 21, 1951 describing a devastating fire in Peterborough, tells it best. The details contained therein, make it quite evident why Earl Spencely joins the over 300 Honourees in the Pathway of Fame.

A sub headline reads, “Always Ready to Help.” Friends said today they weren’t surprised when they learned Earl Spencley, a 34 year old army veteran was in the thick of it as he aided firemen in battling the blaze in a downtown office building. “That was typical of Earl,” said H. C. Munro, a business associate. “He was always in everything when he thought anyone needed help.”

“The father of two was on his way to work when he came upon the fire, and dashed in to help. Through the night, the trapped man’s father led rescue workers as they worked frantically to rescue his son. Finally at 3.30 am, and 16 hours after he became trapped, the body of Earl Spencley was carried out.

“Spencley could have stayed out of danger at the fire. Two years ago he opened a florist shop a few doors away and was fast building one of the best businesses in town. He had a wife, two children Susan (six) and the baby, Peggy, just a few years old and a new home in suburban Peterborough. ‘But he knew it was his duty,’ friends said. So Earl Spencley joined firemen and when they needed help to carry a hose inside the building he was the first to volunteer. Minutes after he entered the building, he was buried.

“Spencley was an active member of the YMCA, a member of the executive of the “Y” business men’s club and a member of Corinthian Lodge AF & AM.

“Whenever there was a job to do we could count on Earl to do it, “ they said. “that was the kind of man he was.”

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

Barry Haggarty, a singer and an acclaimed guitar player, has played with Ronnie Hawkins, Bentwood Rocker and the Family Brown as well as with his own group. He has been a guest with Shania Twain, k.d. lang, and Ian Tyson.

Since 1991, he has operated his superb recording studio, Haggarty Sound Studio, in Peterborough, and recorded an incredible range of talented artists. A highlight for him was recording in the Abbey Road Studios, of Beatles fame, where he recorded some of his own songs, such as ‘Hockey Town,’ ‘If These Walls Could Talk,’ and an instrumental guitar pick. The sound in his own studio is equally good, and he has recorded over 100 CDs and albums for countless projects, and given opportunities for great talent to record in superior facilities.

His outstanding album ‘Old Days’ was performed with notable backup, and besides the title track included ‘Give Me a Break’ and ‘Doesn’t Mean a Thing.’

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

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

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

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

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

This Pathway inductee possesses one of the most familiar faces in Canadian broadcasting. His career offers proof that to be a trusted and recognized presence in broadcast news for close to 40 years, means he has continuously done the right things well.

Wally Macht began his broadcasting career in Saskatchewan in 1959, soon becoming Western Canada reporter for the CTV Network. In 1968, he moved to Toronto as national reporter and backup anchor to Harvey Kirck. Wally served as CTV’s weekend news anchor for 11 years and, in 1977 was elevated to news anchor for Canada AM.

In 1988, Wally looked north and landed in Peterborough as news anchor and Vice President of Information at CHEX Radio and Television, overseeing major updates in news-gathering, tech and presentation – including overseeing  the installation of a state-of-the-art newsroom.

Now, an integral part of the Peterborough community, he utilizes his broadcast skills to assist several local projects, most notably the Heart Catheter Fund, and the Trent Valley Archives.

As journalist, he demonstrates an uncanny news sense and capacity for hard work; as news executive, he demonstrates the rarest of talents; the ability to motivate, without intimidation.

John Greco was Peterborough’s most visible, and energetic hotel manager for over two decades.  Always enthusiastic to give aspiring talent a place where they could hone their craft, John became known as the ‘Godfather of Live Music’ in Peterborough.  He readily made available his venues for numerous charitable causes and was instrumental in developing the very popular Hunter Street cafe district.

With a lifelong love of painting and sketching, George Elliott was one of those rare individuals who actually pursued his dream. Following 28 years as graphic artist with Outboard Marine Corporation, George opened his own studio and Peterborough has been the richer for it.

Through hundreds of pen-and-ink sketches, George served as area chronicler, with his series on historical, and heritage buildings. As well, he taught his craft to aspiring artists as part of the Continuing Education Program at Fleming College for over 20 years. He illustrated a number of books, and his generous donation of many pieces of his work has benefited countless local charities and causes.

Mr. Elliott passed away in July, 2020 at the age of 81.

• Photo Source: PTBOCanada

To be a true community Samaritan, it seems necessary to do two things: robustly speak out regarding important causes, and provide quiet comfort and assistance to distressed individuals, without fanfare. These two qualities were personified with grace, and dignity in the Reverend Floyd Howlett.

Reverend Howlett began his life of commitment protesting the treatment of Japanese Canadians during World War II. That led to work as a United Church missionary in Japan.

Returning to Canada, he became passionately involved with the Peterborough branch of Project Ploughshares, campaigning for world peace and disarmament. Floyd and his wife, Sheila were selfless supporters of the New Canadians Centre, even opening their home to needy refugee families. Floyd shared his dedication and energy with the Social Planning Council of Peterborough, Kairos and Natwin program, which twins Peterborough with the northern Ontario reserve of Mishkegogamang.

The life of Reverend Floyd Howlett is proof that, although the distance between words and actions may be great, the journey is well worth the travel…

Reverend Howlett passed away the year following his induction, in 2003.

To make your community a better place doesn’t always necessitate major and widely publicized feats. Sometimes it’s the little things, done with love and compassion. Helping neighbours means the most. With modesty and an extremely large heart, Pearl Goodall was a consummate good neighbour, and friend.

Known for her involvement, for many years, including that of her brother Bill and husband Stan involved with the Commercial Hotel in Lakefield, Pearl loved baking and sharing the bounty of her efforts with family, friends and strangers. She’s an active participant in the Lakefield Fair and, for 18 years, helped organize the Lakefield Santa Claus Parade. Pearl volunteered tirelessly with the Canadian Cancer Society, Heart and Stroke Foundation, and Red Cross. Pearl Goodall was recognized by the Ontario Community Care Program for having logged the most hours as a volunteer driver in the entire province of Ontario.

To be fondly remembered for unselfish dedication to your community, for your love, compassion, spirit and good humour is the surest indication of a life, well-lived.

Debi Fitzgerald was a rarity among us. She was fortunate to have the capacity to combine her artistic passion, love of nature and commitment to others, into her career.

She began her career at age 12, drawing animal portraits and was, at the time of her induction in 2003, a professional artist for more than 25 years. Her appreciation for detail and intuitive kinship with the fluidity of living things, gained her the title ‘Rose Lady’ during the ‘70’s and ‘Wolf Lady’ during the ‘80’s. In the 1990’s, she was twice named National Artist of the Year by Ducks Unlimited.

Her creations can be found in collections at Buckingham Palace, as well as major corporations and galleries around the world. She shared her works to raise funds for numerous charities and conservation groups.

It’s often said that art reflects life. With Debi Fitzgerald, it can also be said, art reflects the artist.

Debi Fitzgerald passed away following a battle with cancer June 13th 2016 in her 63rd year.

If there’s any doubt that music is a doorway to a life well spent, as an individual and an integral community member, one has only to look at the life of Elsie Chambers Flett.

As one of the first members of Peterborough Branch of the Ontario Registered Music Teachers Association, she taught, and inspired children of this area for more than 50 years. As choir director and organist, she enriched services at St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church, as well as leading numerous musicals utilizing talented members of the choir.

However, it’s an offshoot of her work at St. Paul’s that many consider her most noteworthy achievement. She’s founder, producer and director of ‘Bethlehem Live.’ Through the marriage of music and spoken word, this yearly pageant brings to life the Christmas story in a poignant and tender way. Since its inception, the event has charmed, and inspired thousands of Peterborough residents and visitors.

The joy and meaning of music, accomplishment, and dedication to community.

Elsie Chambers Flett passed away in 2013, in her 90th year.

Not unlike most Pathway of Fame inductees, both past and those being honoured today, giving back to the community has been, and remains an integral part of Dawn Straka’s DNA.

A longtime Rotarian, much of Dawn’s good work has been accomplished via the service club that she served as District Governor in 2010-11. That said, Dawn’s insatiable desire to make her home a better place for others has seen her commit to a number of projects and organizations outside of the Rotary realm, including her serving as chair of the annual Peterborough United Way campaign in 2005 as well as chairing the hospital Board.

Beyond that, the list is long and impressive.

Dawn helped lay out the glass for the stained glass window at Westdale United Church. She folds boxes for Salvation Army Christmas hampers and serves meals at the One Roof Community Centre, as well as shipping hand- knitted baby cloths, hats and mitts to communities in the Far North, as well as Afghanistan. And Dawn was a member of a support team bringing a Syrian family to Canada. Now settled and doing well, the family has been able to sponsor a set of parents to join them here in Peterborough.

Dawn’s immense giving spirit has extended well beyond Peterborough’s borders as well. Having traveled internationally with both Rotary and Jamaican Self Help, she has put her nursing skills to use in Jamaica, distributed wheel chairs in Central America, immunized children against polio in India and helped rebuild schools in Haiti. As her nominator notes Dawn never stops and Peterborough, as well as several other communities around the globe, are better for her generosity, compassion and work ethis.

To that end, Dawn Straka simply asks what needs to be done, then rolls up her sleeves…

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

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

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

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

Glen Walker was hit with the theatre bug in Brantford in 1967 and, to the immense benefit of the Peterborough Theatre Guild since 1970, a cure was never found.

During his close to 50 years with the multi-awarded theatre company housed on Rogers Street in East City, Glen served in virtually every capacity, including the holding of positions on the Executive, and the Play Selection Committee.

As the theatre’s property manager, Glen was involved in several building improvement initiatives such as the installation of a new heating, ventilation and air conditioning system and a new metal roof, as well as the addition of a wheelchair-accessible washroom.

Both onstage and behind the scenes, Glen’s love of, and commitment to community theatre was always abundantly clear. Along with his direct involvement in several productions as both actor and director, he has served offstage as a sound designer, and makeup artist.

Accolades for Glen’s talents have come in the form of a trio of Eastern Ontario Drama League Awards (EODL) – Best Sound Design (1981), Best Actor (1985) and Best Cameo (1989). Glen was also recognized by the Province of Ontario for 30-plus years of volunteer service, and was the recipient of two Civic Awards for Cultural Achievement from the City of Peterborough.

Already the recipient of an award for Outstanding Service from the Peterborough Theatre Guild, Glen was recently made a Lifetime Member of the community theatre group.

Mr. Walker passed away in March, 2024.

For all his success, both professionally and personally, Jim Hendry hasn’t done well at the retirement thing.

Since departing from The Examiner in 2014 after a 32-year newspaper career, Hendry hasn’t come up for air. He has found, and continues to look for, opportunities to volunteer his time and talents to the benefit of his community. Sitting back with his feet up hasn’t been, and still isn’t, an option. Retirement, it would seem, can wait for a bit.

Born in Peterborough, Hendry moved with his family to Cobourg, returning to the city in 1982 for a job as a reporter with The Examiner. Over the following years, he rose through the ranks, serving as the daily newspaper’s weekend editor, city editor, editorial editor page and, finally, managing editor. A true professional who strove to report news factually and balanced, he was awarded a number of Ontario Newspaper Awards as well as the Harry Britain Fellowship Award granted by the Commonwealth Press Union.

Upon calling it a day with The Examiner, the road was clear for Hendry to pursue other interests, bringing to the table informed insights into Peterborough’s political and social challenges.

As a regular panelist for YourTV’s Politically Speaking, Hendry has provided fact-based opinions on the state of affairs at Peterborough City Hall and elected representatives’ performance, or lack thereof. And since retiring, he has written two editorials per week for The Examiner.

Over the past six years, the United Way of Peterborough and District has been a huge benefactor of Hendry’s passion for the place he calls home and those who need a hand up. First as a board member, then as the board chair and most recently as campaign cabinet chair, Hendry has wholly committed himself to the United Way’s mission while inspiring others to do likewise.

Other local entities that have progressed from Hendry’s board involvement include the ReFrame Film Festival as well as the Kawartha Golf and Country Club.

If these contributions aren’t enough to put Hendry into a volunteer class of his own, consider the countless hours he has contributed to ensuring newcomers to the city are felt welcome and valued.

Currently a lead member of a group supporting three Syrian refugee families, Hendry has hosted six Canada World Youth exchange participants, an American Field Services youth exchange participant, and a Belarusian boy displaced by the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear disaster. Collectively, that humanitarian work earned him Rotary’s Paul Harris Fellow, the highest honour bestowed by the international service club.