Each honouree of the Pathway of Fame, Peterborough and District has made a distinct contribution to the area’s arts and humanities heritage. As outlined on our ‘Nominations’ page, the first step in the journey to becoming a Pathway honouree is the submission of a formal nomination by a member of the community, which is then scrutinized by a neutral Selections Committee.
It remains, truly a humbling experience for every individual to whom is bestowed the lasting tribute to their contributions, and recognition of their talent in becoming a Pathway of Fame honouree.
You can find individual Pathway of Fame honourees by doing a simple search of their name using the search bar in the upper-right sector of the page (just look for the magnifying glass). You can also glean a ready snapshot of all inductees in any given year, by clicking on the button that corresponds to the year in which you are interested.
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Barbara Joan Cantello
Samaritan
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Melissa Payne
Entertainment -
Albert Moher
Entertainment/Musical
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Diana McLeod
Entertainment/Musical
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Al Tye
Dramatic Arts -
Stephen Kylie
Cultural Betterment -
Jeannine Taylor
Media -
Dr. Jim and Anne McCallum
Community Samaritan -
Syd & Pamela Birrell
Entertainment/Musical -
George Albertus Cox
Community Builder -
Kate Suhr
Entertainment/Musical -
Les Rawson
Samaritan
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Vincent J. Abrahamse
Entertainment/Musical
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Frank (Bud) Sullivan
Entertainment/Musical
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Elwood Jones
Literary -
Dan Fewings
Dramatic Arts -
Ted Higgins
Cultural Betterment -
David Adams (1960 – 2021)
Community Builder -
Kent Brockwell
Entertainment/Musical -
Dramatic Arts
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Jenny and Cyril Carter
Community Betterment -
Jean Murray Cole
Literary -
Robert H. Bannon
Samaritan
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Stan McBride Sr. (1919 – 2005)
Cultural Betterment -
John F. (Jack) Bardeau (d. 2001)
Community Builder -
Ray Hutchinson (1940 – 2021)
Entertainment/Musical -
Lois Tuffin
Cultural Betterment -
Janet McCue
Cultural Betterment
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Paul Wilson
Cultural Betterment
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Shirley Lannen
Entertainment/Musical
Barbara Joan Cantello
Samaritan
Lifelong resident of Peterborough, Barb Cantello’s community contributions cover the artistic, as well as the practical.
For more than 45 years, she’s been a dynamic and influential member of St. John Ambulance, Peterborough Branch. Active in community affairs, Barb played a pioneering role in developing a program to teach First Aid in area schools.
An added dimension to Barb Cantello’s contribution to the fabric of Peterborough, is her status as one of the founding members of Sweet Adelines Barbershop Singing Chorus, Peterborough Chapter.

Melissa Payne
Entertainment
To whoever gifted a very young Melissa Payne with a fiddle all those years ago, all we can say is thank you.
Born and raised in Ennismore, Payne subsequently learned to play the instrument at the knee of Doug Leahy. She learned well, to the point where today she is a formidable force, not just on the local music landscape but also well beyond its borders. Better still, Payne’s star is still rising with no limit in sight.
Anchored by a lifelong love of old-time fiddle and traditional Celtic music, Payne has steadily fashioned a remarkable recording and performance career that, to date, includes three full length albums of original songs and never-ending stage invites. She followed up her 2012 self-titled debut album with 2014’s High and Dry and, in early 2020, Darker Than Your Dark.
If one can be judged by the company he or she keeps, rest assured Payne is in a very good place. With her live performances having consistently brought forth critical acclaim, Payne has collaborated with some of the biggest names in Canadian music. Greg Keelor (Blue Rodeo), Natalie MacMaster, Matt Mays, James McKenty, Jimmy Bowskill (The Sheepdogs) and Nathaniel Smith share the common experience of having worked with Payne in the studio and on stage.
But Payne is no one-trick pony. Local theatre productions, such as 4th Line Theatre’s 2019 staging of Carmel and Port Hope’s Capitol Theatre tribute to Stompin’ Tom Connors, have drawn on her talent as well.
The thread running through Payne’s contributions to music and the arts is her wholly unselfish willingness to support up-and-coming performers. Her mentoring of those with a musical dream knows no bounds as she provides invaluable advice around booking gigs, publicity and other trappings of the business. If Payne is in your corner, chances are very good that success will follow.
Noted by many who know Payne well is her ability to mobilize others and rally support for important causes. Blessed with a boundless empathy, Payne consistently and easily connects with people from all walks of life.
McKenty, who has produced all three of Payne’s albums, writes his longtime friend “is genuine…people simply gravitate to her down-to-earth personality. I’ve long been in awe watching the way people are attracted not only to Melissa’s music but also to her character.” He clearly speaks for many.
Albert Moher
Entertainment/Musical
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.
Diana McLeod
Entertainment/Musical
A famous Rhythm & Blues singer once said she could see no difference between church and secular music, because God is present in all music. Diana McLeod’s devotion to music certainly fits that belief. As few have been able to, she’s used music to create bonds, bridge gaps and touch people.
For over 35 years, Diana worked with Trinity United Church choir, often introducing complex oratorios, public concerts and intercity exchanges to keep performance vigorous and challenging. For more than five years, she worked on a national committee to create ‘Voices United,’ the updated hymnbook that’s revitalized the music of the United Church of Canada.
Outside the church, she devotes her talents to community choirs such as Peterborough Singers, Jubillaires, Peterborough Centennial Choir and Interlink Choir, a choir of performers of different generations who come together to share and experience music. Diana also contributes to the rich history of musical theatre in Peterborough, serving as musical director, accompanist or performer in more than 30 memorable productions. Her devotion to community is further symbolized by her creative support of the Flood Relief Calendar, a devotion that went an extra mile when she posed as Miss December.
Music is a bridge, a means by which to plumb the depths of the human spirit, to share common bonds. This remains the essence of Diana McLeod, and her love of music.

Al Tye
Dramatic Arts
A retired computer science professor at Sir Sandford Fleming College, Al Tye has been a dedicated volunteer with the Peterborough Theatre Guild (PTG).
He directed 13 productions between 1980 and 2010, enjoying outstanding success with Proof (2008). ln more than forty years of association with the PTG he was connected with no fewer than 170 productions, serving as mentor, producer, director, actor and set designer.
He also served as founding Artistic Director for the Whispers Dinner Theatre, directing 14 productions. He was a professional set designer for Arbor Theatre, and for the Kawartha Summer Theatre in Lindsay.
ln 2005, the Market Hall Theatre named Al Tye as one of Peterborough’s ‘Greatest 100 in the Performing Arts.’

Stephen Kylie
Cultural Betterment
Few can claim to equal Stephen Kylie for his dedication and service to his community. He devotes so many volunteer hours to all his various pursuits that it gives one pause to wonder when he has time to pursue his law practice.
Stephen Kylie is one of those people who finds a great deal of satisfaction knowing he is contributing to the well-being, and strength of his community.
Stephen’s vision of a better, caring place in which to live is reflected by the committees in which he is involved. His focus is always on those who require a better standard of housing and care.
At present, Stephen is Chair of the Peterborough Poverty Reduction Network, as well as Chair of the Mount Community Centre. Both are challenging, and demanding responsibilities that Kylie handles with ease, together with an insight possessed by a select few.
Stephen Kylie proves, at every turn, that he is the man of the moment.
It is an impossibility to list Stephen’s volunteer pursuits, as space does not allow.
However we dare mention a few: Co-Chair of the Rotary Club Victoria Day Fireworks and Family Night (Peterborough); President of the Peterborough Diocese Good Shepard Foundation, and Vice-Chair of the Trent University Board of Governors – chairing the Executive and Property and Finance Committees.
He is widely respected among his peers as a pillar of the community and one who can be trusted to offer up thoughtful, caring advice on any problem presented and requested of him. As busy as he is, he always has time to help assist projects other than those which may be commanding his attention at any given moment.
Stephen Kylie’s greatest attribute is the complete devotion he freely offers to any, and all community or church project requesting his expertise.
It is because of people like Stephen Kylie, that our City and surrounding areas remain the jewels they are – and all, for his willingness to give of himself so unselfishly, in order to make it a better place in which to live, for all.
- photo courtesy Clifford Skarstedt, The Peterborough Examiner

Jeannine Taylor
Media
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.

Dr. Jim and Anne McCallum
Community Samaritan
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

Syd & Pamela Birrell
Entertainment/Musical
A wise individual once defined life as what happens to you while you’re making other plans. Rarely has that observation hit home with more devastating clarity than in the lives of Syd, and Pamela Birrell.
A life in music and raising a family seemed to have been the original plan. Pamela found acclaim as a gifted coloratura soprano and shared her love for music through teaching. Syd became well-known as organist at Lakefield College, and Murray Street Baptist Church. He’s also a founder of the nationally-renowned Peterborough Singers.
Then life changed the plan.
In 1996, Pamela was diagnosed with breast cancer and, while recovering from chemotherapy, their son James was diagnosed with neuroblastoma.
Syd and Pamela’s lives changed forever. They became unceasing advocates on behalf of neuroblastoma research and how a family can retain a sense of humanity while going through the struggle of terminal cancer.
James, sadly, died in 2001. However, thanks to the Birrell family, his story spread around the world, inspiring thousands. James’ short life shines like a bright star in the often dark sky of cancer. Today the James Birrell Neuroblastoma Research Fund is a world leader in cancer research.
Perhaps when the final plan is written, the greatest accomplishment will be how Syd and Pamela, Ben and Rebecca can go through hell, and emerge with their humanity intact.

George Albertus Cox
Community Builder
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.

Kate Suhr
Entertainment/Musical
It’s one thing to be blessed with abundant musical and theatrical talent. It’s quite another, to unselfishly share that talent to the betterment of one’s community.
From an early age, it was very clear that Kate Suhr had a musical gift, prompting her subsequent study of musical theatre at PCVS, and opera at Western University – on her way to attaining a Bachelor of Contemporary Music degree from Humber College.
Locally, Kate has performed lead roles with the Peterborough Theatre Guild, the St. James’ Players and New Stages Theatre. For more than 10 years, our inductee starred in Beth McMaster’s Legendary Icon Series at Showplace, helping raise thousands of dollars for the downtown performance venue.
During the COVID-19 pandemic which began in late 2019, when so many were in need of a lift, Kate Suhr collaborated with her good friend and 2021 Pathway of Fame inductee Megan Murphy to create The Verandah Society, a song-and-storytelling performance that brought joy to people’s lives right where they live. Many of their performances were fundraisers for various causes. In 2021, The Verandah Society was staged professionally at 4th Line Theatre.
Beyond Peterborough, Kate’s artistic footprint has been equally substantial and impressive. She starred in The Little Mermaid and Mary Poppins at Toronto’s Lower Ossington Theatre, as well as worked alongside a number of top Canadian artists in Podium Concert Productions’ The Secret Garden and Nine. Musically, Kate has performed at the Boots and Hearts Festival, and worked alongside Blue Rodeo, as well as Natalie McMaster and Donnell Leahy. A talented songwriter, Kate Suhr has recorded her own music, including the single Better Off Together in late 2021. Her YouTube videos have garnered more than 50,000 views and counting.
While her work has seen her divide her time between Peterborough and Toronto, Kate has always been first in line to perform in support of local causes – a long list that includes Peterborough Performs: Musicians Against Homelessness. A member of the Peterborough Theatre Guild Board of Directors, Kate recently put together a fundraising show to help the company get back onto its post-pandemic feet.
As busy as she is on stages both near and distant, Kate Suhr is a volunteer with Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Peterborough – further evidence of her inspiring concern for the well-being of others, ahead of her own.
Les Rawson
Samaritan
The Pathway of Fame experiences a “first of its kind” category this year.
In the year 2000, prolific songwriter Cyril Rawson was inducted. This year, his father Les Rawson is an Inductee – which marks the first father-son Inductions to the Pathway.
During World War Two, Les Rawson served in the Royal Navy aboard the HMS Norfolk, which was one of the ships to track the Bismarck and was present when the German battleship sank.
But it was after emigrating here with his wife and young son that he was to make his mark in the world.
Les Rawson made a huge impact on the musical history of our area. He not only accomplished that by giving young musicians the opportunity to get a start in their career by making the newest music products available, but – more importantly – through generosity, and trust. Les gave them a way to actually own their own instrument, which in most cases they could not afford.
Rawson’s Music Centre was a full-service music store, which also featured teaching studios. Les offered the local musician the tremendous opportunity to own their desired instrument over time, without the need for a credit check. He trusted musicians to make a weekly or monthly payment – keeping track on a personalized card in a box under the counter.
Les’ store became a place to meet and try out the newest instruments. Those meetings are credited with the birth of bands led by Bobby Kinsman and Del Crary, as well as other big bands. Les and his wife, Lillian, were also very involved in the Kiwanis Music Festival.
Les passed away in 1969 at the young age of 56, but left behind a legacy of grateful musicians who will never forget the trust, and confidence he placed in them.
Vincent J. Abrahamse
Entertainment/Musical
The old saw, (Like Father, Like Son) certainly applies to Vincent J. Abrahamse. He encouraged the same love and passion for music, in his Thomas A. Stewart students, as his father, Jack, instilled in him.
Crafting a highly successful music program at Thomas A. Stewart, Vincent brought much recognition to this area through his direction of unfailing national award winning bands. The bands consist of students from grades 9 through 12, many with no musical experience prior to entering his music program.
It’s through his passion, dedication and hard work that Vincent is able to bring a love and joy of music to those he teaches and who, because of it, produce provincial and national awards as a result.
Frank (Bud) Sullivan
Entertainment/Musical
Without question, he’s one of the most talented and multi-faceted musicians ever to make his home in Peterborough.
Bud Sullivan took to the saxophone early in life and never looked back. Under the tutelage of renowned Belgian musician, Ben Vereecken, Bud began playing with the famed Huntsville Band, and at Bigwin Inn. His talents quickly impressed vacationing musicians, leading to an opportunity of a lifetime.
In 1926, Bud began an eight year tour with the immortal John Philip Sousa Marching Band. After Sousa’s death, Bud went to work with the CBC and the Toronto Symphony. Also at this time he began a new, and fulfilling stage in his life; teaching music.
Opening his music store on Charlotte Street, with wife Dorothy, Bud shared his gift of musical genius with more than a generation of young Peterborough musicians, including Bobby Kinsman and Daniel Rubinoff. Testament to Bud’s teaching talent is the fact that several of his students went on to graduate from the illustrious Juilliard School of Music.
Bud Sullivan: a musician of considerable talent and creativity who maintained a love for music, and for people who made music.

Elwood Jones
Literary
Were Peterborough history, and heritage to have a hero, that hero would be Elwood Jones.
This Trent University professor has consistently championed the cause of local history since arriving in the City in 1969. Over the past 30 years, Elwood has written major works on many aspects of Peterborough’s heritage, including the City’s history, the Peterborough Agricultural Society, St. John’s Anglican Church, and the City’s first golf course.
As a member, and past-president of the Peterborough Historical Society and Trent Valley Archives, Professor Jones has contributed numerous pamphlets, papers and articles, spreading the gospel of local heritage.
- photo courtesy Clifford Skarstedt, The Peterborough Examiner

Dan Fewings
Dramatic Arts
There are not enough improv phrases to conjure up the immense contribution Dan Fewings has made to this community. No doubt, he has helped bridge the gap between the Trent University, and Peterborough communites through his varied activities, and as a consequence made Peterborough a more welcoming place to live.
Dan Fewings’ vocation as music teacher at PCVS and Crestwood High Schools enabled him to note, encourage and help promising talent. He became mentor to such exceptional people as Jimmy Bowskill. Dan single-handedly expanded the Peterborough Folk Scene, hosting and performing 5 years of Tuesday nights (count ’em ,256 in all) at Red Dog Ray McGregor’s (Inducted 1999) Hunter Street West Tavern stage in the early 1990’s.
It can be said of Dan Fewings that his comedic talents boarder on genius, making him sought after by numerous groups as performer, emcee and comic.
His presence in ‘Bowskills and Fewings,’ ‘The Three Martinis,’ ‘Slim Pickets’ and ‘The Union Cards,’ also with son Josh in ‘Fewings and Son,’ and then on occasion with the Citiots Improv Group, has resulted in the stuff legendary stories in equal parts colourful,and simply great.
It would be safe to say that those with whom he has graced the stage: Linda Kash (Inducted 2015), Sean Cullen, Serena Ryder (Inducted 2016) and Rick Mercer to name but a few, will concede that the billing could be just as meaningful the other way around!
It is estimated Dan has volunteered over 1000 hours of music, clowning around or emcee to numerous functions. His wit, energy, promotion of others and love of people combine to bestow Dan Fewings, an Honouree of the Peterborough and District Pathway of Fame.

Ted Higgins
Cultural Betterment
To use a modern expression – Man! Is there a lot to be said in telling factual stories surrounding Ted Higgins!
For example, Ted left school at 15 to work with his father in the hardwood flooring business, which prospers to this day.
However, it’s his contribution to Canada’s national sport, the game of lacrosse, that endears Ted Higgins to this community.
In his youth, he was a player; he was on a team that won Minto Cup. While he was coach and executive member of the Junior A lacrosse club, the Junior Lakers won four Minto Cups. He made Peterborough Lakers Major Series Lacrosse Club into a major force, with a winning team and a strong fan base.
During Ted Higgins’ presidency, the Peterborough Lakers Major Series Lacrosse Club won four Mann Cups. He’s nurtured respect of players, growth of community spirit, and gained personal dedication in bringing it all about, many times, at great cost to himself. Proof positive Ted Higgins’ determination has bettered the entire community in many ways, more than once.
- Photo courtesy Metroland / MYKawartha

David Adams (1960 – 2021)
Community Builder
When charged with being the face, and the voice for an organization, the pressure to deliver can, and often is equal parts overwhelming, stressful and daunting.
During his 27 years as Executive Director of the Five Counties Children’s Centre Foundation, if Dave Adams felt any pressure to deliver results, he never showed it. Quite the contrary, as he proudly heralded the centre’s mission of helping children and adolescents with physical, communication and developmental needs, strengthen their abilities.
Mr. Adams’ own daughter was in the pipeline to receive support and care from Five Counties, when Dave applied for the Executive Director’s position in 1991. He not only got the job, but over the ensuing years worked tirelessly to raise awareness of the centre’s work, and the need for funding to ensure that work continued.
In his role, Dave Adams spoke to numerous community groups, often outside of working hours – and he organized very successful fundraisers, including the annual door-to-door campaign which relied upon an army of volunteers to raise thousands of dollars.
When the Peterborough Festival of Trees ended its lengthy run, Mr. Adams, saw an opportunity and retooled the event as a Five Counties fundraiser dubbed Winterfest. He also coordinated an ambitious fundraising campaign with the goal of raising $5 million over five years.
Our inductee’s unabashed support of his community extended well beyond the Dutton Road centre, as he volunteered with Junior Achievement, the Canadian Mental Health Association, and the United Way of Peterborough and District.
Mr. Adams was also heavily involved in sledge hockey for youths with special needs, and gifted his time to Special Olympics as well as the Ontario Association of Children’s Rehabilitation Services. Active in sport in his own right he skied, played hockey, baseball and golf, and even won a medal for speed skating. For a number of years Mr. Adams awoke many days at 6 a.m. to flood a neighbourhood ice rink before heading off to work.
Retired in 2018, David Adams sadly passed away three years later – but his influence and legacy is seen to this day in the continuing world-class care and support provided daily to children and their families from across the Peterborough region, and beyond.

Kent Brockwell
Entertainment/Musical
Kent Brockwell is living proof that without a loving sense of history, one can never fully embrace the future. As singer, songwriter, guitarist, composer, and recording artist, Kent never missed an opportunity to perform in the Peterborough area and spread his gospel of traditional country music.
His vast knowledge of ‘Country’ roots made him a master, at whose knee many aspiring performers would learn. One of his most devoted fans was the legendary Stompin’ Tom Connors. On many occasions, Kent and Tom performed together, recorded together and wrote songs together. A high point in Kent’s career was appearing in the highly acclaimed Stompin’ Tom film, ‘Across This Land.’

Dramatic Arts
For many years during his broadcasting career, George Franks led a double life, much to the delight of countless radio listeners.
His time behind the microphone spanned close to 40 years, most notably here in Peterborough at both CKPT and CHEX and later, nationally, with CKO. For his ‘serious’ work, he gained a reputation as a smooth and perfection-oriented announcer.
It was, however during his tenure at CHEX that George created his famous alter-ego. Elwood Cranston was the crusty but lovable curmudgeon from Cordova who poked fun at government, society and human foibles, through his frequent appearances on Sean Eyre’s Wired Woodshed, at numerous public functions and eventually, on The Tommy Hunter Show.
George Franks’ humour and creative genius provided ample proof that radio was indeed the ‘theatre of the mind’ and made Elwood Cranston a much-loved figure in Peterborough broadcasting, even as residents of Cordova could never quite remember exactly where he lived…
Mr. Franks died in 1989 at the age of 55 after a 19-month battle with cancer.

Jenny and Cyril Carter
Community Betterment
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

Jean Murray Cole
Literary
By looking back we can, most times, see the direction our future is taking. Such is a gift few can claim to share as has Jean Murray Cole with her enthralling compositions.
Our community is certainly richer for her penning nine books, including three Peterborough township histories, plus a host of papers that fill her dossier to date. Jean Murray Cole is an acknowledged expert on the Strickland family; Samuel Strickland, Catherine Parr Traill, Susanna Moodie, and their siblings who remained in England. The Stricklands mean much to the area because they wrote and recorded their experiences in its raw, evolving youthful years.
Jean Murray Cole holds an honours degree from Trent University, the Ontario Medal for Good Citizenship, and the F.H. Dobbin award for her book, ‘Sir Sandford Fleming: His Early Diaries.’ Many of her manuscripts and research papers have been donated to Trent University Archives.
Robert H. Bannon
Samaritan
Freely giving away to others that which is your own expertise may qualify one as a Samaritan. To do so however a calm, never judgmental demeanor may help assure such a title.
Such is the nature and gift of Robert H. (Bob) Bannon whose greatest passion lay in his knowledge and love of the “pipes”- as in bagpipes. He belonged to the General Electric Pipe Band for 30 plus years, being its Pipe Major for 26 of those years. It was during that time Bob Bannon taught more than a hundred people both young and old, never asking as much as a penny for his lessons.
During his tenure as Pipe Major the GE Pipe band won many prestigious awards at highland games across Ontario and the Northern USA. In 1966 the band won the honours of North American champions.
It was, however, as a patient, understanding, teacher of that most cantankerous musical instrument for which Robert H. Bannon became most well-known and admired. Many of his students went on to become world class pipers and some even became Pipe Majors of Canadian Pipe Bands. It was Bob’s trust and faith in people that shone through all he did to impart the art of piping to those he taught.
He is fondly remembered for his altruistic nature in never asking for recompense. One of his former students echoes the sentiment shared by all who knew Robert H. Bannon – “he was a true gentleman.”

Stan McBride Sr. (1919 – 2005)
Cultural Betterment
In the history of Peterborough, no one more personified the term ‘community service’ than did Stan McBride Sr.. Nearly all his adult life, he gave unselfishly of his time, energy and talents on behalf of almost every worthwhile community cause that came along.
In his early days, area residents cheered on his athletic abilities and, later, he served his city as Alderman, Mayor and Sheriff.
On a more casual basis, Stan was a popular and revered emcee, toastmaster and humourist – not to mention a willing volunteer for numerous boards and committees. For more than 50 years, Stan McBride Sr. demonstrated that volunteerism, with a smile, is the key to a better community.

John F. (Jack) Bardeau (d. 2001)
Community Builder
To the great benefit of Peterborough’s musical and sport communities, our inductee moved to the region in 1957 and never left – in so doing, making his home a better place for countless others.
Born and raised in Toronto, Jack Bardeau started work with Bell Canada in 1941 but joined the Royal Canadian Air Force the following year, helping develop the radar network on Canada’s west coast. Post-war, he returned to Bell and made his way to the Peterborough area, living first at a cottage on Pigeon Lake and then, at a home in the city’s north-end in a Veterans Land Act subdivision where he raised his family.
In the early 1960’s, Mr. Bardeau contributed his singing talent to the Liftlock City Chorus, staying with the barbershop-style ensemble for more than 10 years. When the need for a new conductor for the ladies’ chorus arose, Mr. Bardeau took on the challenge and directed the Peterborough Pipers of Harmony.
Jack Bardeau also became quite involved in sport, but not until his mid-50’s. He made up for lost time, however, playing in the Peterborough Recreational Oldtimers Hockey League as well as serving as its president. He organizing the annual Kinsmen Arena tournament for teams from across Ontario, earning tournament ‘Founding Father’ status from the league. In addition to his on-ice pursuits, Mr. Bardeau also played baseball for a number of years.
It was while he was with Bell Canada that Jack Bardeau was awarded the Community Chest Award for Outstanding Citizenship in 1961. He was also a long-serving member of the Telephone Pioneers, a North American organization that supported the needs of the disabled and, in particular, the hearing impaired. Mr. Bardeau served as president of the organization’s local chapter and, upon his retirement from Bell in 1984, he was presented with a Pioneer Life Membership.
When a stroke in 1995 brought an end to his athletic pursuits, Mr. Bardeau was asked, a few years later, to drop the puck at the annual hockey tournament he founded – a gesture that clearly showed the respect he had earned from his teammates.
Jack Bardeau passed on in 2001, but his war service has been immortalized alongside that of so many others on the Veterans Wall of Honour at Confederation Square. Also not forgotten, is his strong sense of community, anchored by his unselfish efforts to make Peterborough a better place, for so many.

Ray Hutchinson (1940 – 2021)
Entertainment/Musical
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.

Lois Tuffin
Cultural Betterment
If you believe, as Robert Louis Stevenson once said, that a busy person never has time to be unhappy, then the seemingly permanent smile on Lois Tuffin’s face makes perfect sense.
Since relocating to the Peterborough region from Almonte in the late 1990’s to assume a newsroom position with Peterborough This Week, Lois Tuffin has rarely, if ever, remained idle. Over the past 25 years, our inductee has put her exceptional and effective communication skills to work on behalf of several events, and organizations.
Presently a board member with the Council for Persons with Disabilities and a volunteer with Peterborough Food Share, Ms. Tuffin previously oversaw communications for the Peterborough Poverty Reduction Network, Youth Emergency Shelter, the YMCA, and the Peterborough Regional Health Centre’s Breaking Ground fundraising campaign. Starting in 2004, she was marketing co-chair for the Be A Goddess event for five years. In 2007, and again in 2019 the World Women’s Under-19 Field Lacrosse Championships benefitted greatly from Lois Tuffin’s skills as she attracted to the event unprecedented media attention while producing a daily newsletter for teams, and fans.
Long-term involvement with various initiatives has also been part, and parcel of Ms. Tuffin’s commitment to the betterment of people’s lives.
In 2009, via the pages of Peterborough This Week, she organized the Great Turkey Exchange that saw readers donate food for distribution to those who otherwise might go without a traditional Christmas meal. Now overseen by the East Peterborough Lions Club, more than 17,000 people have been helped to date. As a member of the board for The Mount Community Centre, Ms. Tuffin served in a variety of board positions for seven years, helping raise close to $3 million for the construction of much-needed affordable apartments.
And as a board member with Homegrown Homes from 2004 to 2010, Ms. Tuffin helped foster an important rebranding, and worked to restore the organization’s financial health.
Her volunteer involvement as a team player is noteworthy – but so too, are Lois Tuffin’s individual contributions that fall below the radar. Quickly closing in on 100 blood donations, Ms. Tuffin has worked one-on-one with newcomers from South America, helping them with their language skills and employment acquisition through her quiet involvement with the New Canadians’ Centre.
Unsurprisingly, Lois Tuffin has been duly recognized for her community service. In 2008, she was the recipient of a Peterborough Civic Award in the Sport Betterment category. The year prior, The Ontario Community Newspaper Association honoured our inductee with its Mary Knowles Community Leadership Award.
Janet McCue
Cultural Betterment
Janet McCue has made remarkable contributions towards the preservation, and public awareness of native culture, language and teachings. She taught courses and wrote numerous songs in Ojibwa, and translates compositions, including the National Anthem.
Janet is lead vocalist and drummer, since 2005, in the Wshkiigamong Women’s Hand Drum Group. The group, based in Curve Lake First Nation, performed by invitation at Juno Beach on the occasion of the 65th anniversary of the D-Day invasion; then, toured in France and Holland.
Closer to home, the group donates countless hours to community events and charity fundraisers.
Her interest in presenting, and educating all who’ll listen about the Ojibwa culture is foremost in her accepting invitations to perform. Many of Janet’s songs relate to native teachings regarding conservation, and proper stewardship of our natural resources, and the environment.
Paul Wilson
Cultural Betterment
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.
Shirley Lannen
Entertainment/Musical
The magic of musical performance lay in its capacity to entertain, delight, inspire, challenge and express thoughts and emotion – too deeply felt, to be entrusted to mere words. Shirley Lannen spent a lifetime expressing thoughts and emotions through music and audiences; the Kawarthas have been the richer for her passion, and talent.
Shirley spent her formative years playing and singing in church, school choirs and at community events. By the late 1950’s, her talents were on display with area dance bands. Her broad love of all genres of music made her the Kawarthas’ unofficial ‘wedding singer.’
In the 1970’s, Shirley began a 28-year love affair with the St. James Players and her natural affinity for Musical Comedy contributed much to the enviable reputation the St. James Players enjoyed over the years. With the Players, she served as director, pianist, choral and musical director, costume director, producer and leading lady.
She served as organist at Donwood United Church and enjoys participating in church musical fundraisers.
Whether in church, on stage or before a dance band, Shirley Lannen always said it best with music.