Inductees

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.

Gary Dalliday became an institution in the area’s sporting fraternity during his 34 year career as Sports Director of CHEX TV and Radio.

Gary traded his job at General Electric in the mid 1970’s for the demanding, and somewhat tenuous sports executive post. It was a life-changing decision he never regretted making.

Dalliday was an athlete in his own right, playing Junior B hockey, a handful of games for Scotty Bowman’s Peterborough Petes as well as starring for years In the City softball league.

Gary Dalliday has made sports his life – and along with it, devoting what little spare time he had available to emceeing and hosting hundreds of charity events. In fact, the amount of work he devoted to charities became about as demanding as his job.

He deservedly was inducted into the Peterborough and District Sports Hall of Fame in 2001 as a builder and athlete.
If one attempted to list a number of the colourful sports personalities who have dotted the Peterborough landscape and contributed to the local scene – among them, Scotty Bowman, Johnny Danko, Bob Gainey, Red Sullivan ,Chris Pronger, Dick Trotter, Bill Bennett, Roger Neilson – the name of Gary Dalliday is ranked right up there with them.

Besides the 34 years he was ‘Mr. Hockey’ on CHEX TV and Radio, he and his youngest son, Peter comprised a revered broadcast duo calling Peterborough Petes games on radio for 16 years. Son Peter did the play-by-play and Dad, Gary was the analyst.

Gary Dalliday retired from CHEX TV in 2009 but his caring demeanour, dedication to the sports fraternity and his tireless efforts supporting countless worthwhile causes will forever place him in high regard of the grateful community he served so well.

It should be noted that his son, Peter Dalliday, continues in his Dad’s footsteps and upholds the Dalliday family’s quiet legacy of service above self, as well as calling hockey and lacrosse for Your TV and the Halifax Thunderbirds, as well as co-hosting morning radio in Peterborough on 100.5 FRESH FM.

Gary Dalliday died in August, 2018 following a long, and courageous battle with cancer.

• Photo courtesy of Clifford Skarstedt, The Peterborough Examiner

For over 75 years, Gwen Craw made a quiet but significant contribution to music in Peterborough.

As a teenager, she began as accompanist for YWCA exercise classes and silent films, shown at the George Street Opera House.  She performed, in concert, with Peterborough’s Madrigal Singers across Ontario; contributing her musical talents and knowledge to Women’s Art Association and Peterborough Concert Association.

For near 50 years, Gwen was the official accompanist for Peterborough Kiwanis Music Festival.  In recognition, the Kiwanis Club awarded Gwen Craw an honourary lifetime membership.

The richness of cultural life in Peterborough and the Kawarthas is due, in no small part, to the contribution of First Nations people who live, and create here.

A lifelong resident of Curve Lake, Norman Knott’s artistry, whether in acrylics, oil or watercolours, gained him a reputation around the world. Drawing on a closeness to nature and his Ojibway heritage, Norman developed a powerful and unique style of painting by interweaving contemporary realism with traditional Ojibway symbolism.

The works of Norman Knott can be enjoyed in galleries across North America and Europe, and grace private collections of notables ranging from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, to Pierre Elliott Trudeau and Johnny Cash.

As a reporter for The Peterborough Examiner for more than 25 years, John is best known for his weekly ‘Labor Beat’ column and contribution to the Centennial Yearbook project, ‘Peterborough, Land of Shining Waters.’

His devotion to community ranges from volunteer work with area labour councils, to lecturing in area schools to foster a deeper appreciation of Aboriginal Peoples culture.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

For a great many musicians, a fond memory of youth is spending hours wandering through one of those wonderful, small music stores with guitars hanging everywhere, getting lost in dreams of a guitar you’ll own one day, if you work and practice hard enough.

For thousands of Peterborough musicians, that memory conjures up one name: Bud Monahan.

The Peterborough music scene and the name Bud Monahan have been synonymous for over 50 years. Few have exercised such an influence over musicians in the Kawartha region. For nearly all his life, music played an integral part.

In early days, Bud played with many legendary names in Peterborough music, such as Paul Konkle, Del Crary and Freddie Coupland. Teaching music at such memorable establishments as Rawson’s and Musicland led to opening Bud Monahan’s House of Guitars. For over 40 years, Bud supplied instruments and taught the rudiments to literally thousands of aspiring musicians. In many instances, Bud taught multiple members of the same family, employing many former students as teachers.

For Bud, music supplied an extended family and a generational rite of passage. Good musicians will tell you it’s in the sharing of same that music affords the greatest satisfaction – and it’s in playing, teaching and sharing by which Bud Monahan personified the greatest gift of music.

• photo courtesy Clifford Skarstedt, The Peterborough Examiner

Terry Finn, a native Peterboronian, was a music prodigy, studying piano and organ. By age 15, he played the organ at the Cathedral of St. Peter-in-Chains, and began teaching music with Tommy Barnes’ Continental Academy of Music. Later, he opened his own Finn’s House of Music, where he taught a wide range of musical skills; his students included upcoming stars such as Serena Ryder.

Terry, along with fellow Pathway of Fame inductees Barry Haggarty and Ken Deschamp, formed a band called ‘Parnell,’ which played across Ontario and the Maritimes. During this time the group also released three singles which garnered airtime on Canadian radio. He has played in at least a dozen other bands, recorded with several notable musicians, and performed at nearly every venue in the Peterborough area. His nominator believes his feeling is captured best in the song “Immortality:” “So this is who I am, and this is all I know.”

• Photo courtesy of Lance Anderson, Peterborough This Week / Metroland / MYKawartha

Many Peterboronians may not be capable of correctly spelling his last name, but it is certain there are not many citizens who have not heard of him. Also affectionately known as ‘Johnny O’, he is well-regarded for his commitment to music and for the generosity he has shown sharing his time and talent.

John Oosterbroek’s life and musical journey are one, and the same. From the time, at 8 years of age, when his father taught him clarinet, his passion for playing and sharing his talent spread from his native Utrecht, Netherlands to Europe, the Middle East and North America. His teaching at Thomas A. Stewart Secondary School and Lindsay’s LCVI High School endeared him to generations of aspiring musicians.

It is his involvement as Conductor of the Peterborough Symphony Orchestra (PSO) and Peterborough Concert Band, as well as his status as a lifetime member of the Kiwanis Music Festival, that shine as his crowning achievements. So too, are the many, many people who have benefited from dutiful teaching courtesy of John and his wife in one of the two New Horizon Band organizations in this area.

A serious accident while performing only slowed him for a while, but with his recovery came his renewed dedication to giving of himself. A recipient of an Ontario government Volunteer Service Award for his work with the PSO, John Oosterbroek has touched so many hearts and brought forth their love of music.

With great pride and humility, The Pathway of Fame welcomes Johnny O to join its group of distinguished Honourees.

Mr. Oosterbroek passed away in June, 2019.

Marie Callaghan was an outstanding television talk show host long before such programming became common fare. In fact, it is safe to say she was a television superstar prior the industry ever coining the phrase.

Marie devoted 5 days a week for more than 21 years to her half hour Marie Callaghan Show. Beginning in 1954 until she retired in 1976, it is estimated the talented lady interviewed an estimated 20,000 or more guests.

Her schooling as a fully-graduated physiotherapist was never put to use, as quite by accident she was offered employment at CHEX TV. From that moment on, Marie balanced a home life comprising husband Jack, and their children Dennis and Lynn, with producing and starring in her own daily TV show.

Nowadays she would be a pioneer in the then-fledgling television industry. That possibly could be one of the reasons she was privileged to “call her own shots” so to speak, and run her program without executive interference. The Marie Callaghan Show was programmed almost autonomously from the rest of the station – so much so that she was in the enviable position of having no restrictions as to  what she could, or could not do.

Marie possessed an innate sense of what would work and what would not, and she exercised that intuitive gift to its fullest. Marie Callaghan’s popularity grew with each passing program, and made her show a staple in East Central Ontario. When she finally volunteered to “throw in the towel” so she could enjoy more family time, she held the Canadian TV record for the greatest number of years of broadcasting at any one television station in all of Canada.

Marie gave of herself to a good many community causes. She certainly possessed the common touch, a humble quality which endeared her to all who came in contact with her. She was a lady who never placed herself above another, and was keenly interested in the lives of others while insisting to one, and all just to be known as Marie.

It was those characteristics she bequeathed to her family, friends, community and TV Industry. Attributes for which she will always be remembered, and revered.

It’s virtually impossible to imagine the Peterborough Theatre Guild being the community theatre tour de force it has become without the decades-long involvement, commitment and talents of Gwen Hope.

Gwen joined the Peterborough Theatre Guild family in October 1967, just two years after it was founded. What followed was an outstanding theatrical career that also included work with the Whispers Dinner Theatre, Arbor Theatre, St. James’ Players and the New Stages Theatre Company.

With the Peterborough Theatre Guild, Gwen’s resume features an impressive list of duties – costume design, makeup, stage management, stage décor, lighting, acting and directing credits abound.

Having created costumes for more than 25 productions, Gwen has taken home the John L. Walley Award for costume design a remarkable four times from the Eastern Ontario Drama League (EODL). That’s in addition to EODL awards for Best Supporting Actress and Personal Growth. Gwen has also been recognized by the Province of Ontario for 25-plus years of volunteer service and has received 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, Gwen was recently made a Lifetime Member of the community theatre group.

The impact made by Agnes Logan Green on the appreciation of fine music is multi-faceted. But what else could be expected from such a multi-faceted talent?

As a youngster, her talents bordered on that of child prodigy, beginning on the piano at age four, giving recitals at age 12, sweeping music competitions and studying in England by her teens.

Agnes forsook a concert career for life and love in Peterborough. She often performed locally and spent years teaching music. As one of the original Peterborough Concert Committee members, she brought luminaries such as Glenn Gould to the City. During the 1950’s, Agnes performed a classical concert series on CHEX Radio.

Always willing to lend a helping hand, Agnes Logan Green was an early supporter of Kiwanis Music Festival and Kawartha Music Camp, as well as a number of worthy local causes.

Agnes Logan Green passed away on 2002.

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.

Stuart Harrison, the General Manager of the Peterborough Chamber of Commerce since 2003 has, over the years become a respected advocate for business, and a trusted friend of the community. His positivity, intuitiveness and inventiveness is matched only by his commitment to volunteerism and community well-being.

Through it all, he remains the same down-home prairie lad dust in his boots.

Stuart has, for decades written ‘The Business Beat,’ a weekly feature on changes and updates in the area’s business scene that appears in the Peterborough Examiner, and is also featured on CHEX-TV as ‘Stoo’s News.’ The columns, since 2004, are archived at KawarthaNow.com.

Stuart’s career in journalism began in his home province of Saskatchewan, in North Battleford, before continuing following a move to Peterborough as the mid-morning man on CHEX Radio, from 1977-1985. This show evolved into a talk show format that featured interviews with visiting authors, entertainers, and experts, as well as local people promoting events and fundraisers such as the Christmas Hamper program, Hospital drives, Five Counties, and Easter Seals.

As the station promotion manager he promoted events while dressed as the ‘CHEX Chicken,’ and added host for the annual Easter Seals Telethons for some thirty years, a role he continues to this day.
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Stu Harrison spent many years in advertising with the publisher of Kawarthas Today and The Business Advantage. He ran his marketing company, Harrison Advertising, from 1987 until becoming General Manager of the Chamber. During this time he developed the sophisticated ‘Visitor in Peterborough VIP’ promotions, an important feature of local tourism.

His many awards and accolades include induction as a Rotary Paul Harris Fellow; in 2009 the Canadian Chamber Executive of the Year; in 2012 recipient of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce James Carnegie Award; and in 2013 the Burnie Gillespie Memorial Award “for demonstrating excellence in Chamber Management and outstanding commitment to the community through volunteer service.”

It can be said that the business community, and the community as a whole, has no better friend than Stuart Harrison.

Erica Cherney, quite simply, never gave up…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Photo courtesy of Red Pashmina

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.

Passion for music and dedication to community is often a repeated combination with Pathway of Fame inductees.

Few better personify the combination than does Wally Parnell.

His music career started early, and became a lifelong commitment. Wally began playing in Salvation Army bands at age 16. In 1949, he joined the Peterborough Citizens Band, becoming conductor a year later. For over 60 years (24 as conductor), Wally was an integral member of the Peterborough Concert Band. Under his guidance, the Concert Band won five Senior Band titles in Band Competitions at the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE), and four Canadian Championships.

During his ‘spare’ time, Wally served as president of the Peterborough Federation of Musicians (19 years), and contributed to the local Big Band scene by playing with the likes of Del Crary, Bobby Kinsman and Hal MacFarlane.

To enrich the life and esteem of a community through music takes a large measure of talent, hard work and dedication.

In other words, it takes a Wally Parnell.

There seems a point in an entertainer’s life when the call of home and community overtakes the lure of the road. People who create a life, and roots, become more important than heading out on the road to a new town, a new audience.

Make no mistake, Del Haddlesey still loves his music but benefiting others now occupies the driver’s seat in his life.

Many will remember Del Haddlesey from the ‘salad days’ of Peterborough music in ’60’s and ’70’s. Whether at Brock Ballroom, Queens Hotel, Marmora or Madoc Hotels, Del captivated audiences over many years of Saturday nights. In the 1970’s, he went on the road to share stages with the likes of Waylon Jennings and Chubby Checker. As time went by, and life imposed its dictates, Del returned to his Peterborough roots.

Switching gears, Del concentrated on making a difference on behalf of people who needed him in the Kawarthas. His date-book soon filled with events in aid of a veritable ‘who’s who’ of community endeavours. With his group, ‘Father Time,’ he worked in aid of local food banks, area Legions, the Heart and Stroke Foundation, the Cancer Society, many family benefits and an impressive list of community projects.

Dedication to community through time, talent, energy and selflessness is the hallmark of an exceptional human spirit. That’s Del Haddlesey.

Since 1986, Mike Barker has been the founding director of Folk Under the Clock, a concert series that presents folk/roots music in Peterborough. Barker has brought some remarkable talents to Peterborough from around the world – Dougie MacLean (Scotland), Arlo Guthrie (U.S), Eric Bogle (Australia), Danu (Ireland) and legendary Canadian Bruce Cockburn. As well as bringing over 100 music acts to Peterborough stages, Barker has also been a Juror for the Canadian Juno Awards and a longstanding Juror for the Canadian Folk Music Awards. Mike Barker has brought a welcome diversity to the local music scene and has successfully promoted Peterborough as THE place to play in Southern Ontario.

Mike Barker photo courtesy Clifford Skarstedt, Peterborough Examiner

“There is one thing a photograph must contain: the humanity of the moment.”

Charlie Gregory has certainly heeded the advice of Swiss photographer and documentary filmmaker Robert Frank.

Camera in hand and empathy flowing through his veins, his motivation has been, as he told The Examiner in February 2023, “to swing these people into having a heart,” a reference to you and me and anyone else who has seen the marginalized but remained blind to their full right to not only walk among us but live their lives on their terms.

So it is, through Gregory’s photographic essays, we have met Bongo Dave, Groundhog, The Shinny Man, One Legged Bill, Abby Red Scooter, Ottawa Bob, Quiet Ken, Big Joe Nap and The Drifter.

A self-described “watcher of folks who live on the edges of society,” Gregory has made it his selfless mission to be there for each of them and countless others – but his kindness extends well beyond the click of a camera shutter.

As the proprietor of Lumpy Bikes, Gregory habitually donates refurbished bicycles to the marginalized. But his compassion is much more up close and personal.

In the introduction to Dark Hallways Revisited and Other Lost Places In My Soul – the sequel to his 2012 published photo essay of the same name – Lynn Cummings writes “Stealthily, regularly, he checks the downtown neighbourhoods and gathering places of people who are homeless…sourcing medical and social assistance, providing rides and smokes, offering an ear for listening and a shoulder for leaning.”

But the essence of who Gregory is, and why it matters, can be found in his striking photographs. His documentation of those he has befriended brings us on a privileged journey where our eyes are opened as we stare into the eyes of his subjects. His accompanying insights speak to the soul of those his camera has frozen in time. The result is we see – really see – the homeless for who they are and always have been: people who, while lacking a home, are people all the same. Flesh and blood; dreams and hopes; interesting, quirky and full of life as they’ve experienced it.

The message of Gregory’s advocacy, both photographic and personal, is bogeymen are the stuff of fiction. Don’t dare avert your eyes. There’s nothing to be afraid of here. Never was. Never will be.

As one would guess, Gregory hasn’t come to this place at this time by accident.

In a 2018 interview with Peterborough This Week, Gregory revealed that there was no authority figure in his life after age 12, his widowed mother struggling to raise six children.

Showing “great signs of being a rascal at a very young age,” he was bailed out of the drunk tank six consecutive weekends when he was 16. Later, in the 1970s, his selling of recreational drugs brought a 13-month sentence at the Ontario Reformatory in Guelph. This sentence had a twofold effect in that it prevented him from further using soft and hard drugs, as well as introducing him to working in the prison school as both the secretary, and as a teacher with his own hand-chosen pupils, hardened by difficult lives at home.  After his marijuana grow operation for those suffering various maladies both physical and mental, was raided in Peterborough’s south end in April 2008, he was sentenced to a 45-day stay at the Central East Correctional Centre in Lindsay.

Released early and ordered to complete his sentence by working weekends at the Youth Emergency Shelter (YES) on Brock Street, Gregory was a witness to prostitution, overt drug activity and copious consumption of alcohol in the shelter’s vicinity – a firsthand experience that was an epiphany of sorts as he saw “the underbelly of Peterborough like I had never seen it before.”

Out many thousands of dollars because of his legal troubles but blessed with a family and a roof over their head, Gregory determined, then and there, to help people who “had nothing.” The following summer, he found, refurbished and donated no fewer than 74 bicycles to those in need. Lumpy Bikes is a byproduct of that experience, as is the name which satirizes the bikes he donates.

When all is said and done, Gregory’s striking photographs and from-the-heart stories put a face to the faceless, and give meaning to lives that indeed matter. He asks nothing of those who view his images and read his words, other than perhaps some long overdue reflection on ‘There but for the grace of God, go I’ and the love for others which often flows from that.

Many of those depicted in Gregory’s book have died since they were photographed – but the road to anonymity they were on has been lit by the photographic proof of their having been here with us.

“My job is to share the information I have on these people,” Gregory told This Week, adding “I don’t know why I do it but I think somewhere in there I say ‘This person needs a friend.’ So, I end up being their friend.”

And we end up being in a much better place as a result.

Gary Stewart was a funeral director with Comstock Funeral Home until 1974, and subsequently since 2003 with Community Alternatives.

Stewart founded G. Stewart Travel Services, and directed the firm for nearly 30 years, when he sold it to Scott and Dana Stewart. The firm was connected to Carlson Wagonlit.

Stewart was an Otonabee Township councillor from 1981 through 1995, serving as Deputy Reeve, and Reeve. He served as the Progressive Conservative Member of Provincial Parliament for Peterborough, 1995-2003.

As MPP, he was particularly determined in working to secure the funding needed to assure the success of the new Peterborough Regional Hospital. Stewart has spent his entire life in Stewart Hall and Peterborough, and is well-known and connected with the community.

In varied and quiet ways, Gary Stewart has helped countless people, and innumerable causes in the community. As John Cunningham, of Community Alternatives has noted, “Gary is extremely personable, exudes trust and just has a way with people…”

• photo courtesy of Lance Anderson, MyKawartha and Peterborough This Week

With a significant international artistic career in her wake, since relocating to Peterborough Linda Kash has lent her considerable talents to the many, and varied entertainment and theatrical aspects of this community.

Previous to her local involvement, she boasts an impressive resume which includes Second City appearances, and a number of plays for the Canadian stage. A busy actor, Linda has appeared on everything from Seinfeld, Best of Show, Waiting for Guffman and more recently, the series Fargo. Movies include Cinderella Man, and the made-for-TV movie ‘Titanic’ produced in commemoration with the 100th anniversary of the Titanic sinking, and cast as the ‘Unsinkable Molly Brown.’

If there were any doubt about her pedigree of performance, it should be noted that Linda and her four siblings were born to beloved Canadian operatic contralto Maureen Forrester, and Toronto-based violinist and conductor Eugene Kash.

However, in all likelihood her best-known role was her portrayal of the Philadelphia Creme Cheese Angel on television that took on iconic status for years.

It is for her vitality and creativity while contributing to such projects such as the Festival of Trees, appearances in New Stages productions, improv nights at the Gordon Best Theatre, directing Beau Dixon’s “Beneath Springhill: the Maurice Ruddick Story” for black history month, and host for countless charitable events to assist with fundraising in the community which has earned the respect and admiration of Peterborough audiences.

As director of the Peterborough Academy of Performing Arts (PAPA) as well as the mentoring of people of all ages with an interest in dramatic arts, have combined to place Linda front and centre in the theatrical life of the community.

Linda Kash certainly raises the bar for all theatrical artists in Peterborough and district. And it is for her genuine caring and willingness to share her tremendous talent, that she is welcomed into the Pathway of Fame.

There’s political service…and then there’s Jack Doris.

First elected as a separate school board trustee in 1966, Jack Doris sought a Peterborough city council seat the following year, won election, and ultimately served Peterborough residents for 45 years – the longest serving council member in the city’s history. That incredible run was comprised of 39 years representing Monaghan Ward residents and another six years as mayor from 1991 through 1997.

Born and raised in Keene, young Jack found himself in Peterborough at age 13 when opportunities in the city triggered a family move. A superb athlete, he excelled at hockey and softball, his prowess as a left-handed pitcher earning him the lifelong nickname of ‘Lefty.’ Entering the workforce at a young age, he worked 40 years for General Electric, initially as a fitter/welder before retiring in 1990 from his position as shop operations department manager.

Doris met his beloved Sheila (Grady) in 1950 on a blind date at Club Aragon where they danced the night away to the Bobby Kinsmen Orchestra. They married the following year, embarking on a remarkable 72-year life journey together that ultimately blessed them with six daughters, 15 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

Long before the lure of politics grabbed hold, in 1953 Doris, along with others, explored the co-operative housing concept. Those involved worked their respective jobs by day, studied the building trades at night and subsequently built each other’s homes. By July 1956, no fewer than 41 families had moved into their new homes located in what became known as The Greenhill Subdivision.

Upon his retirement from politics in 2014, Jack’s outstanding service to the city and its residents saw him awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, the key to the City of Peterborough, the Mayor’s Civic Award, and Homegrown Homes’ Lifetime Achievement Award for Community Betterment.

Having displayed, through his words and actions, the highest standards of integrity, Jack Doris – upon his passing this past March at age 92, was widely, and fondly remembered for his compassion for the less fortunate and those in need. Whatever one’s station in life, Jack Doris had your back, listening and responding with genuine interest and empathy, offering encouragement and hope for better days ahead.

His greeting was always thus, with an outstretch hand and a smile: “Hello, I’m Jack Doris. How can I help?”

Jack Doris died March 4^th, 2023 in his 93^rd year.

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.

Peterborough city and county is known widely for its diverse music soundtrack – a formidable footprint that’s well worthy of heralding whenever the opportunity presents itself.

For more than three decades, John Lewis has been, and remains, local music’s head cheerleader, bringing to our collective attention the incredible talent of the many musical artists in our midst. His platform for doing so remains YourTV, for which he has voluntarily produced hours of programming that brings artists of all music genres and talent levels to our ears.

Bringing his background as a CBC audio engineer to the table, Lewis not only helps ensure the airing of high quality productions but his research is over the top. More often than not, his guests are taken aback by some tidbit Lewis knows about them, either personally or professionally. Lewis does his homework.

His head crammed with information drawn from a variety of sources, Lewis doesn’t simply recite a list of questions – he engages his guests in a dialogue that, once finished, leaves us with as complete a picture of him or her as one can obtain.

The list of those who have sat down with Lewis for multiple episodes of both Junction 28 and The Skinny is long and impressive, featuring the likes of Serena Ryder, Jimmy Bowskill and the late Colleen Peterson. But he hasn’t limited his interview subjects to those of the long established variety. Many an up-and-coming musician has been granted the chance to perform in-studio, introducing each to a large audience. Good things – very good things – have often followed as a result of their one-on-one time with Lewis.

On top of hosting his two programs, Lewis has played a huge role in YourTV’s Christmas season programming. He has spent hours creating notes that highlight every audio cue, vocal note and movement for the Peterborough Singers’ presentation of Handel’s Messiah. With Lewis’ help, local music talents such as Terry Guiel and Elyse Saunders have shared their holiday music favourites with YourTV viewers.

As a volunteer, John doesn’t mail it in. He professionally approaches every interview and performance he’s involved with. Leading by example, he plays a key role in training other YourTV volunteers, eagerly sharing his expertise with those looking to make their own mark in the community television realm.

• Photo courtesy of The Peterborough Examiner

Country Music fans in Peterborough area knew Stu McCue as a topnotch entertainer; what many don’t know, is the depth of his diversified talent.

A professional musician for more than 30 years, Stu McCue shared stages with many Country legends. However, he is equally talented as a landscape painter, and teacher. To better share a love of his heritage, Stu became a Certified Instructor of Native Languages and Culture in 1977.

Stu McCue is perhaps best known for his boundless generosity towards others. For years, he performed at local seniors’ residences and nursing homes on a weekly basis. He continually encouraged young talent by giving them an opportunity to perform with him. If there’s a local cause or charity in need of fundraising, Stu was always there to help.