Inductees

While you may not place the face, chances are you know, and know well, the voice.

For more than two decades, as a morning radio personality for 101.5 CFMP (pre-dating The WOLF) and Oldies 980 CKRUz, Melnik’s distinctive tone helped start the day on the right foot for thousands.

Having first arrived at 980 CHEX Radio in 1977 where he worked alongside local broadcasting icons Graham Hart, Gordon Gibb and Gary Dalliday (and later, Wally Macht) Mike Melnik learned fast, and well.

Returning to Peterborough in 1988 from CKCK Regina, he again took to the local airwaves with CFMP, the FM affiliate to 980 CHEX. When he moved to the AM dial in 1992 with the debut of oldies CKRUz on AM, Mike’s easy and entertaining on-air banter with the late John Badham was the highlight of close to 5,000 morning shows. When Badham retired, Melnik didn’t miss a beat as he, and his new co-host Catherine Hanrahan went together like peas and carrots until Mike’s retirement from the airwaves in 2012.

Away from the studio, Melnik’s philanthropic nature has benefitted numerous causes and events. Besides lending his voice where, and when needed he has always taken an active role in fundraising. A prime example is his 25 years-plus involvement with the Easter Seals Telethon – a huge commitment that not only sees him host the Angel Board segment of the telethon, but also serving as a member of the telethon’s organizing committee.

As chair of Peterborough’s ‘Canada 150’ Anniversary Celebration, Melnik worked with the Downtown Business Improvement Association and Peterborough Musicfest, hosting pop-up performances and a signature concert featuring Kim Mitchell. A founding member of the Three Loonies fundraiser that has raised close to $2 million for Kawartha Food Share, Melnik has also gifted his time and talent to the Boston Pizza Smashed Volleyball Tournament, Pedal For Hope, and the BEL Rotary Polar Plunge, to name but a few of his associations.

But for all his work towards the betterment of our community, Mike Melnik’s capacity to put those he interviews at complete ease remains an enduring hallmark of his persona. Simply put, he was, and remains gifted in terms of helping his interview subjects to feel instantly comfortable and right at home, as his natural curiosity draws out their story.

Owner and operator of Impact Communications, Mike not only helps his many clients achieve success through their marketing acumen, but also continues to volunteer his time to Easter Seals and, more recently, as a board member with the Peterborough Foundation.

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.

Mention the former Towns General Store, and ‘Douro’ will probably be mentioned in the same breath – and the reverse will happen when one mentions Douro – Towns General Store will be mentioned too. Ask the whereabouts of Michael Towns and you will be corrected to say ‘Mike’ Towns. For it is as ‘Mike’ that Towns is held by the entire region as the successful, dedicated and newly retired businessman, accomplished musician and now it’s more recent Author-In-Residence!

Just as his father and grandfather before him, Mike welcomed customers to the famous store established in 1892, and operated continuously until it succumbed to a massive fire on February 2nd, 2018. When minding the store for most of his life, he always showed a genuine interest and deep compassion for those who frequented his establishment.

It can truly be stated Mike’s journey has been walked with integrity, humility and grace. He is certainly regarded as a cherished gem within the community of Douro. Now it is Mike Town’s penning as an author too which has allowed the many descendants of Douro residents, those residing within it, and those who have moved away to rekindle their roots.

Mike’s two books, ‘While Minding The Store,’ and ‘I Mind The Time,’ chronicle the life and history of the early settlers and previous generations of Douro residents.  Readers are gently guided back to a time of faith, family and community.

Mike’s friendly demeanor, ready smile and handshake are testimonial that even in this hurried day and age, one can be assured of personal attention and interest – a genuine quality only transferred from generation to generation.
The Pathway of Fame was formed to enshrine important people such as Mike Towns who represent and maintain those special ideals that have made this area the extra special place that it is.

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.

Margaret MacKelvie, teacher and community activist, was a woman with a deep, and abiding love for the magic of ‘living history.’

No one was more involved in the creation of Lang Pioneer Village.

Before Lang opened in 1967, Margaret supervised Village construction, including arranging for several buildings to be transported to the site. Over the years, she arranged ‘special days’ at Lang, as well as creating publications with a focus on Lang.

As evidence of her true devotion, Margaret served as volunteer curator from 1967 to 1995.

For her efforts, Margaret MacKelvie was awarded the Canada Commemorative Medal, an Outstanding Achievement Award from the Ontario Museum Association, and an honourary doctorate from Trent University.

His, was a life devoted to the oral and aural tradition. If questions regarding sound arise, John K. Muir was the one to provide the definitive answer.

John Muir pursued a varied, and eclectic career as broadcaster, sound engineer, educator and administrator. John demonstrated proficiency in choral music, and is one of the few people in Peterborough to hold a certificate in campanology.

In the area of community service, John functioned in creative and administrative capacities with Artspace, The Kawartha Jazz Society, and Showplace Peterborough.

In the late ‘70’s, John was one of the founding directors of Trent Radio and, since 1994, served as its General Manager. Under his dedicated and energetic guidance, this student-sponsored radio facility became an influential and broad-based voice in the Peterborough community. His enduring legacy is tied to every program, every note of music, and every broadcast heard on what has evolved, truly, to a community radio station.

John Muir died in June, 2019 in his 63rd year.

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

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

June Whiteman was a mainstay of ‘live’ theatre in Peterborough since the 1950’s.

Beginning with the Knox Theatre group, June went on to become a founding member of the Peterborough Theatre Guild in the mid-sixties, serving on its first Board of Directors.

As a singer and actress, she appeared in dozens of roles, most notably that of Aunt Eller in the 1971 production of ‘Oklahoma’. In 1986, June turned her attention to directing with the Guild and continued to appear with the ‘Guild Overtones,’ often for charity.

June also found time to undertake movie, and television work outside of the city.

June Whiteman passed away in March, 2006.

While many have been, and still are champions of the preservation and celebration of local heritage and history, few have displayed the level of passion and sheer tenacity that Mary Laverty brought to bear over some three decades.

Starting in the early 1980s, Mary clearly recognized the need to preserve all forms of local heritage, including researching and presenting the history and architecture of buildings. She volunteered her time for restoration efforts, was involved with the naming and cataloging of Roy Studio Images, assisted in the writing and development of public policy on heritage issues, and rewrote the bylaws of the Peterborough Historical Society to bring them in line with 21st century thinking and practices. In short, Mary saw the pressing need for cultural preservation, rolled up her sleeves and made it happen.

Mary’s work with Roy Studio Images led to her researching for her book Upper Stoney Lake: Gem of the Kawarthas. Later, with her husband Doug, she researched and wrote Up The Burleigh Road: Beyond The Boulders. For her writing prowess and the breadth of her research, she received the 2011 Award of Merit from the Ontario Heritage Trust.

Among the many who worked with Mary on a number of committees and projects was inaugural Trent University president Dr. Tom Symons. Just recently, he remembered Mary for “standing out amongst those who have cherished and cared for the distinctive heritage of this old Ontario town.”

During her five terms as president of the Peterborough Historical Society, Mary sewed heritage dresses for volunteers to wear and managed the historical preservation of the museum. In addition, she organized the High School History Awards and the annual Heritage Awards presentation. Mary also spoke on heritage issues before numerous groups as well as promoted and organized active community participation in local heritage activities, most notably via the annual Doors Open Peterborough initiative.

Before her passing in July 2014, Mary amassed a number of awards and honours. In 1985, her championing of the educational and historical significance of PCVS brought her an Award of Merit as Educator of the Year; in 2007, and again in 2009, the City of Peterborough presented her with its Cultural Betterment Award; and 2011 brought her the Award of Merit from Heritage Ontario. Mary also won the George A. Cox Heritage Award.

It’s no small wonder that Trent Valley Archives director Elwood Jones praised Mary as the backbone of the Peterborough Historical Society, her husband Doug noting “When Mary got involved in a cause, she really believed in it.” Mary’s many contributions continue to form the foundation of historical understanding and preservation in Peterborough.

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

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

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

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

A faithful champion of the Canadian Armed Forces and veterans long after his 1970 retirement from the Royal Canadian Air Force as a Captain, Robert Ough has never stopped serving.

With decades of volunteer service in Peterborough and area – he moved here in 1982 with his wife Margaret – Robert has maintained a leading presence with the Air Force Association, the Royal Canadian Legion, the Royal Canadian Military Institute and the Peterborough United Services Institute. Local events held annually to honour veterans have benefited greatly from his involvement.

After leaving the Armed Forces, Robert spent 47 years in the helicopter industry, earning a life membership in the Helicopter Association of Canada. Still, as successful as he was in business, he never forgot his Military roots.
As a member of the 428 Peterborough Wing Air Force Association, Robert was one of those responsible for the restoration of the 1950 F-86 Sabre jet at Riverside Park in Peterborough. In June 2009, fully restored, the jet was returned to the park – a consecrated memorial to the memory of all airmen from the Peterborough district. While that was a much publicized effort, it is Robert’s unheralded efforts on the part of veterans that sets him apart as he regularly visits with them, advocates on their behalf and drives them to and from events.

Robert’s service extends well beyond the military realm, a prime example being his work with a 12 Step Program as well as his extensive service and contributions as a Mason for more than 50 years.

In 2012, Robert was awarded the Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Medal for his dedicated service to his peers, his community and Canada as a whole.

Long-standing member of Kawartha Shrine Club, Lloyd devoted himself to a long list of community projects.  He served in several capacities with Shriners, including club ambassador, sick and visiting chair and president.  Also influential in organizing Shrine support for Peterborough Youth Soccer and, as part of the Shrine clown unit, delighting in entertaining children.

Eveline Foster is one of those rare and wonderful musicians who warmly combined her love of music with her love of family and community.

For near 60 years, Eveline charmed the Peterborough people as both performer and teacher. She taught piano and violin to such future luminaries as Del Crary, Ernie Victor and Stan McBride Sr.. As musician, she played at silent movies, numerous minstrel shows, the Peterborough Symphony, the YWCA and, on Saturday nights, the Sergeant’s Mess at the Armouries. A humble woman, she poured her heart into her music. Eveline once said she never did solo work because that would mean facing the audience. “They should be just enjoying the music,” she said, “not seeing me.”

In recognition of her dedication to music and community, a trophy in her name is awarded each year at the Kiwanis Music Festival. To those who knew her or felt her influence, Eveline Foster represents the best in our musical tradition: a love of people and the making of music for the pure joy of it.

The life of a pioneer in Peterborough County during 19th Century was one marked by hard work, long days and constant uncertainty. To temper the harshness of that life with a soft touch of poetry took a remarkable human being.

‘Remarkable’ is an apt word to describe William Telford Sr.

Born of humble origins in Scotland, Will Telford came to the Peterborough area in 1850 and toiled as a farmer, and stonemason. To this day, many homes still stand as testament to his stonemason craftsmanship. In the best Scottish tradition of Robbie Burns, Will found time to pursue his love of poetry, finding inspiration in his ancestry and the beauty of the world around him. His many poems led him to be dubbed ‘the Bard of the St. Andrew’s Society’ and the ‘the poet laureate of Peterborough with the gentle brogue and lilt.’ The volume of Will’s poems, found in print, attest to his stature as one of the most prolific and widely read poets ever to live in the Peterborough area.

William Telford Sr. was an artist in both stone and poetry, and it’s indeed poetic and fitting that both his stonework and his written words have endured.

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.

Paul Ayotte was a technical writer for General Electric of Canada, 1964-2002, but is best known for his remarkable contributions to municipal government. He represented Ashburnham ward, 1978-85, 1987-2003. He served as mayor of Peterborough from 2006 to 2010. During these years he served frequently on committees for finance, public transportation, council procedures and affordable housing.

After the Ides of July flood in 2004, he chaired the Peterborough Area Flood Relief Committee, and while mayor established and energized the Mayor’s Action Committee on Poverty (Peterborough’s first since 1875). During 28 years in public office he has been a tireless advocate for fighting poverty, building affordable housing and finding ways to help the disadvantaged. He then accepted the challenge of chairing the Peterborough United Way campaign for 2012.

His family has been in the area for eight generations, and he admired the community’s ability to meet challenges and to support those in need. He challenged people to give a “gift of hope.”

His amazing public career has always been about finding ways to lead, ways to better the community one person at a time.

Paul Ayotte photo courtesy MyKawartha.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

Audrey Caryi resonated throughout Lang Pioneer Village, to which she devoted her artistic talents, for an incredible 34 years.

An honours graduate of Toronto’s Art College in 1969, she began her long tenure with the historic village in 1983. Audrey’s career as Museum Specialist and Exhibit Artist has enhanced the life of the Village, and its displays, to a degree rarely equaled elsewhere. Audrey Caryi’s drawings give life to the many artifacts displayed throughout the Village. She developed conceptual drawings for a number of reproduction buildings that were added to the Museum grounds over the years. Her work also engaged her in the design and staging of numerous exhibits.

It is safe to say that Audrey Caryi’s life, and that of Lang Pioneer Village were almost one and the same. However, while she did devote talent to the many areas of the Village, she also did a variety of work as a freelance artist. This included calligraphy work for the Campbellford Memorial Hospital, and also updating names and illustrating pages in the Book of Remembrance for the City of Peterborough.

Audrey was an enthusiastic community supporter of Warkworth and area cultural Boards and festivals, and was one of 17 original artists who started the Colborne Artists Cooperative in Colborne, Ontario. Her accomplishments are far too many to list here, but there is no doubt that no one was more dedicated to ensuring that activities at Lang Pioneer Village were historically accurate and true to the Museum’s vision, mission and mandate.

Tragically and all too soon, Audrey passed away as the result of a horse riding accident in April, 2017.

Joe Corrigan, the Museum’s Manager says it so well, “we are all the richer for having had Audrey Caryi as part of our lives.”

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.

A musician and songwriter for over 30 years, Bryan D. Switzer is one of those genuine artists who uses his music to touch the hearts of people in his community, and country. He created a remarkable catalogue of songs celebrating Canada, the land’s history and beauty, and poignancy of the lives of individual Canadians. His songs had an impact on audiences across the country and as far away as Europe.

Throughout his career, Bryan’s been an ardent and passionate supporter of Canadian talent, especially those aspiring artists looking to get their foot in the door. There have been no worthy causes in our area that have yet to benefit from the musical generosity of Bryan D. Switzer.

If longevity is a hallmark of success, this gentleman has achieved his longevity with a caring commitment to his music, and his fellow Canadians.

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.

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.

The Order of Canada was established to pay tribute to Canadians who exemplify the highest qualities of citizenship and whose contributions enrich the lives of their contemporaries. It’s also a perfect description of the life of Dennis Sweeting.

A highly decorated war hero, Dennis pursued careers as actor, writer and theatre administrator before coming to Lindsay. It’s here he became the driving force and catalyst in the successful enterprises of Kawartha Summer Theatre, and revitalization of Academy Theatre.

Displaying those high qualities of citizenship, Dennis also served in several political and community capacities, most notably Reeve of Lindsay and Warden of Victoria County.

A man of considerable warmth and commitment, his contributions to cultural life in his community and that of Canada led to his being named to the Order of Canada. Few better personify the criteria of that Order than does Dennis Sweeting.

To see a need and to act upon it; to do the good act not for self-reward but because it is the right thing to do, is an admirable attribute.

Dr. Jim and Anne McCallum – in their own quiet and unassuming way and through their Friends of Honduran Children (FOHC) organization which they founded here in Peterborough – provide free medical, dental, and educational care, as well as building homes and schools for needy children in that country.

Both Dr. Jim and Anne are extremely community-minded, and support other local non-profit organizations. Recently they were successful at initiating a committee to accept refugees through their church community. Anne volunteers at her church and with St. Vincent de Paul. She deservedly received the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal in 2002.

It is through their efforts, together with those of several hundred volunteers who fuel the immense undertaking to provide for the extremely poor children of Honduras. In a country which does not offer the social, medical and support system such as we are blessed, Dr. Jim and Anne McCallum and Friends of Honduran Children serve as a social net for the Honduran poor.

Dr. Jim harbours a personal dream, and fervent wish that one day they will grow a children’s village into a settlement to house 500 orphaned, and abandoned children.

It is absolutely inspiring that among the citizens of Peterborough, are people such as Dr. Jim and Anne McCallum who truly live, and understand the credo “we, are our brother’s keeper.” They give of themselves on a daily basis to the care, and welfare of others.

True Samaritans indeed – Dr. Jim and Anne McCallum.

• photo courtesy of KawarthaNOW

You hear the expression: ‘You can dress him up but you can’t take him anywhere.’ Well, Howard Berry dressed others for decades, with skill and talent that took him everywhere.

With a knack for, and love of fashion from a young age – his father gifted him a manual sewing machine at age five – Howard could never remember a time when he wasn’t creating with fabric and experimenting with varied colour combinations.

Shortly after graduating in 1959 from a private design school in Toronto, Howard opened his own design shop in the big city. A number of different jobs in a variety of fields followed – but Howard’s love of fashion design never waned. Arriving in the Peterborough area in 1977, Howard landed a men’s wear retail job with Eaton’s, which took him back to Toronto. When he returned to Peterborough, he opened Howard Berry Designs in Charlotte Mews.

It was in 1980 that Howard’s long and fruitful association with the Peterborough Theatre Guild began with his design and creation of costumes for ‘A Doll’s House.’ Since that time, he was a constant fixture at the Rogers Street theatre. ‘The Mikado,’ ‘Le Cage Aux Follies’ and ‘Cats’ are just a few of the Peterborough Theatre Guild productions that soared thanks to his abundant talent for design.

However, Mr. Berry was no one-trick pony. In addition to costume design, he donated his time and abilities as a theatre set designer, director, production designer and painter for dozens of plays, musicals and special performances – greatly contributing to not only Peterborough Theatre Guild productions, but also to presentations at Showplace Peterborough.

Recognition has duly come Howard’s way. In 1990, the Eastern Ontario Drama League awarded him for set design followed, in 2008, with an award for Best Visual Presentation and, in 2009 an award for costume design. That same year, Theatre Ontario also recognized Howard’s work with an award for costume design. Finally, in 2015 and along with the cast and crew of ‘Twelfth Night,’ Howard accepted a Cultural Betterment Award from the City of Peterborough.

In 2017, at The Mount Community Centre, ‘Passion For Colour: A Design Retrospective’ saw Howard’s work put on public display – a show that featured many of his most spectacular theatre costumes, as well as his original paintings.

Mr. Berry passed away March 3rd, 2022 at the age of 84.

• Photo courtesy of Clifford Skarstedt, The Peterborough Examiner

One of Canadian Music’s most poignant and admired singer/songwriters, ‘Willie P’ penned songs that would become award-winning classics for artists such as Prairie Oyster, David Wiffen, Blackie & The Rodeo Kings, Vince Gill and Pure Prairie League.  He was a fixture at folk clubs and festivals across Canada for more than 40 years and a valued member of Peterborough’s music scene.

Willie P. died on February 15th, 2008 at his home in Peterborough suddenly, of a heart attack. He was 56.

• Photo By Donna Hopper

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