Elizabeth Fry Society of Peterborough Reveal Rebel Awards Recipients

The Elizabeth Fry Society of Peterborough (EFRY) unveiled its Rebel Awards recipients ahead of its eighth-annual Rebel With A Cause fundraising event at Showplace Performance Centre on Nov. 27.

Photo courtesy of the Elizabeth Fry Society of Peterborough.

EFRY says the ceremony honours outstanding local individuals and organizations who have engaged in advocacy and action to address issues of criminalization, challenged practices in the criminal justice system, and worked towards gender equity.

There are live performances by Peterborough’s Babe Chorus and Poet Laureate Ziysah von Bieberstein. A silent auction, a 50/50 draw and a photo booth are fundraising efforts that will be at the ceremony. This year, all proceeds raised will support the Morning Drop-in Program at Trinity Center. 

The 2024 Rebel with a Cause Award recipients are; 

• Cheyenne Buck, Drop-in Program Coordinator- One City Peterborough

• Kelli Marshall, Indigenous Enrollment Advisor/ Dancer - First Peoples House of Learning

• Jocelyn Enright, Community Engagement Coordinator, Kawartha Sexual Assault Center

This year, EFRY is introducing two new awards categories that highlight the work of community partners and businesses that work thoughtfully and creatively to support and uplift vulnerable communities experiencing challenges associated with mental health, addiction, homelessness and criminalization.

The Inaugural recipients we are honouring this year are:

• PATH Peterborough Action for Tiny Homes - Radical Audacity Award

• Arising Collective- Business Excellence Award

Tickets are available online or at the Showplace Performance Centre Box Office at 290 George St. N. Tickets include a light dinner and refreshments.

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Peterborough and the Kawartha Chamber of Commerce Announce Business Excellence Awards Recipients

The Peterborough and the Kawartha Chamber of Commerce handed out its 2024 Business Excellence Awards at a ceremony held at Showplace Performance Centre on Tuesday night.

Phillip Jolicoeur (middle) with his family, announced as the Business Citizens of the Year. Photo courtesy of the Peterborough and the Kawartha Chamber of Commernce.

The awards are designed to publicly recognize and honour local businesses with a passion for excellence.

Almost 50 businesses and individuals were profiled in 22 categories, with recipients announced live on stage.

The following are the nominees and award recipients:

4-Under-40 Profiles, in memory of Kathy Windrem

• Dr. Taylor Bonner

• Joe Curry

• Hillary Flood

• Dylan Radcliffe

Businesswomen of the Year

Entrepreneur

• Rosalea Terry of nectar co. (Recipient)

Organization

• Heidi Popov of Kawartha Gymnastics (Recipient)

Business Citizen of the Year

• Phillip Jolicoeur of PJ The Marketing Guy, Phillip Jolicoeur Entertainment, Photo Booth Fun (Recipient)

Business Student Leadership Prizes (winners listed)

• Ali Jammal (Trent University)

• Joylyn Johnson D Souza (Trent University)

• Swarna Latha Mareedu (Fleming College)

Commercial Development or Renovation

• Ashburnham Realty (The Railyard Development)

• The Canadian Canoe Museum (Recipient)

• Holmes Riseley LLP (823 Park St. S.)

Customer First

• The Boardwalk Board Game Lounge

• Couture Candy (Recipient)

• McLeod's EcoWater

Employer of the Year

• Engage Engineering

• Gauvreau Accounting Tax Law Advisory (Recipient

Entrepreneurial Spirit

• Green Street Inc.

• nectar co.

• Wanderlight Alpaca Experience (Recipient)

Peterborough County Farm Family of the Year (winners listed)

• Scott, Paula, Jason & Shelby Cornish (Whiskey Lane Livestock)

Green Initiatives

• Camp Kawartha (Recipient)

• Cheeks Ahoy

• Dietrich Homes

Health & Wellness

• Acceptance Nurse Psychotherapy

• Flow Spa (Recipient)

• Trent Health in Motion

Hospitality

• Levantine Grill

• Millbrook Mercantile (Recipient)

Local Focus

• Lang Pioneer Village Museum (Recipient)

• Market Hall Performing Arts Centre

• OmniWorx Design

Marketing & Promotion

• Cottage Country Lifestyle Magazine

• Harmony for Healing

• nectar co. - The Viral Keepsake Campaign (Recipient)

Micro Business

• The Chocolate Rabbit (Recipient)

• Millbrook Mercantile

• Peterborough Disability Tax Services

Immigrant Entrepreneur of the Year

• Sama Noor Yousafzai (Goodies on Mews)

Not-for-Profit

• Five Counties Children's Centre

• Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region – (Recipient)

• Kawartha Gymnastics

Professional Services

• Acceptance Nurse Psychotherapy (Recipient)

• Gauvreau Accounting Tax Law Advisory

• Holmes Riseley LLP

Retail

• Dan Joyce's Retailing Limited

• Paris Marine (Recipient)

• Shop The Lake Inc.

Skilled Trades

• R & M Smith Contracting (Recipient)

• Tom's Heating and Cooling

Tourism

• Beachwood Resort

• Kawartha Country Wines

• Lang Pioneer Village Museum (Recipient)

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Fleming College Alumni Nominated For Premier’s Awards

Six Fleming College alumni have been selected as nominees for the this year’s Premier’s Awards.

The Premier Awards were founded in 1992. Photo courtesy of Fleming College.

Colleges Ontario administers the Premier’s Awards, the advocacy voice for Ontario’s 24 colleges.

This annual celebration recognizes college graduates' significant social and economic contributions on a provincial and global scale.

Colleges can nominate alumni in seven categories: Skilled Trades, Business, Community Services, Creative Arts and Design, Health Sciences, Recent Graduate and Science, Technology and Engineering.

The Fleming College nominees for 2024 are:

Skilled Trades
Dylan Stadtke: Mechanical Techniques Plumbing (2016), HVAC Technician (2018)
The co-owner of Pristine Plumbing Peterborough, Dylan’s business is thriving, reflecting his dedication to high professional standards and community involvement. In addition to two Fleming diplomas, Dylan completed the Construction Leadership Program at Fleming in 2022, demonstrating his commitment to leadership and excellence in his field. Beyond his professional achievements, Dylan is deeply committed to men’s mental health and is a strong proponent of promoting women in trades. His dedication to these important issues underscores his role as a leader and innovator in his industry.

Health Sciences
Francine Sam: Practical Nursing (2024)
Francine Sam began her nursing career while living in Australia where she was enrolled in university for nursing. She ended up moving to a rural village in northern Uganda where she did humanitarian work for seven years alongside her young family, caring for vulnerable children and their communities. It was through her experiences there that compelled her to further her education at Fleming College. Francine recently graduated as a Practical Nurse and was the Valedictorian of the School of Health and Community Services and is now working as a Registered Practical Nurse in the Emergency Department at her local hospital.

Community Services
Heather George: Museum Management and Curatorship (2008)
Heather George is an influential leader in the Canadian museum sector. As Executive Director of the Woodland Cultural Centre, she advocates for Indigenous perspectives and creates opportunities for Indigenous artists and curators. As the Past President of the Canadian Museum Association and current Vice President for the Indigenous Heritage Circle, Heather advances the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call to Action #67, urging museums to engage in reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. In 2021, she led a national review of museum policies in relation to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). This review involved Indigenous communities and museum professionals, culminating in recommendations to change sector standards and develop federal repatriation laws.

Science, Technology and Engineering
Matthew Wilson: Conservation Biology (2024)
In 2022, Matthew Wilson made a significant decision to leave his career in the shipping industry and return to school. He was driven by a desire to pursue a more meaningful path, he chose to focus on addressing the pressing environmental and natural world challenges facing our planet today. Matt has always had a deep passion for animals and nature. Over the years, he has worn many hats, including biologist, arboricultural field technician, and research assistant. Recently, Matt enrolled in the Conservation Biology Program at Fleming College, where he graduated as Valedictorian of the School of Environmental and Natural Resources. Driven by a strong desire to make a positive impact on our climate, Matt is committed to preserving our natural legacy for future generations.

Recent Graduate
Jacques Graveline: Business Administration-Marketing (2022)
Jacques Graveline was a Student Ambassador for Fleming Indigenous Student Services and Fleming Student Administrative Council. He graduated from Fleming College with an Advanced Diploma in Marketing in 2022 and has been extremely involved in the College since. Elected as Board Chair at Fleming SAC in 2023, he passionately advocates for students to ensure an exceptional college experience. Jacques is a leader in the Peterborough community, supporting the United Way homeless initiative and Dragon Boat Races for Breast Cancer, while creating and implementing marketing strategies as the Marketing Assistant at Bridges Peterborough. Jacques is currently the Governance and Advocacy Coordinator with the Fleming Student Administrative Council.

Creative Arts and Design
Aaron Robitaille: Graphic Design-Visual Communication Advanced Diploma (2020)
A 2020 graduate of Fleming College’s Graphic Design (GDV) program and recipient of the Muriel Cooper Award for Design Excellence, Aaron launched “Aaron Robitaille Design” and developed notable branding for Haven Brewing Company. Her expertise spans large-scope murals, websites, and mentoring local artists, with work featured across Ontario. She is currently an instructor at Fleming College and acts as Vice Chair and member on Artspace’s Board of Directors, Peterborough’s only artist-run centre. The GDV program’s comprehensive training and community partnerships were pivotal in her success, fostering a blend of art and design that continues to drive her career and contributions to the local arts community.

The Premier’s Award nominees will be recognized at a gala event in Toronto on Nov. 25 where the winners will be announced.

To nominate a deserving Fleming graduate for a 2025 Premier’s Award, please contact the Advancement and Alumni Relations Office at 705-749-5530 ext. 1197 or email alumni@flemingcollege.ca.

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Local Luxury Home Builder/Developer Wins Award for Two-Storey Home Design

Dietrich Homes has won the Ontario Home Builders’ Association’s (OHBA) 2024 Awards of Distinction for Production Built Home.

dietrich homes logo

The OHBA’s award ceremony took place on Tuesday in Niagara Falls.

According to a media release, the awards recognize the creativity, innovation and excellence of land developers, builders, renovators, designers, marketers and service professional’s within the residential construction industry.

“We would like to take this time to recognize the amazing work completed by all of our vendors who take pride in their work and have contributed to our success,” said Paul Dietrich, owner and builder of Dietrich Homes.

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United Way Peterborough & District Names Recipient of 2024 Scholfield Award of Community Distinction

Paul Armstrong, a long-time housing advocate, is the recipient of the award.

united way peterborough & district photo of paul armstrong

The Scholfield Award of Community Distinction is handed out to annually to a individual or organization who, ‘through their excellent leadership or outstanding contribution has demonstrated the ability to mobilize positive change within our community.’

The award sub-committee selected Armstrong based on his work, research and advocacy over the last several decades.

Nancy Fischer, chair of the Community Impact Committee, reflected on her long history working alongside Armstrong during her career with the City of Peterborough.

They first met in 2002 on a housing committee.

“Paul has tirelessly and tenaciously promoted information about the housing market to make sure it gets out into the community,” Fischer said. “For me, it isn’t important to recognize what a person does, but who they are. Paul is tenacious and respectful, showing us how advocates can work together with government for a better Peterborough.”

The first edition of ‘Housing is Fundamental’ was published in 2005 with the 19th edition of the report set to be released by the United Way this fall, written by Armstrong.

“The United Way is near and dear to my heart,” Armstrong said. “Volunteers gain a sense of fulfillment from their work, but it isn’t possible to do this type of work without an avenue for it. United Way has provided me with this avenue and the opportunity to continue to do this work.”

“I have known Paul for 13 years. First and foremost, Paul is a strong advocate and champion for housing within Peterborough,” added United Way Peterborough & District CEO Jim Russell.

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Peterborough Petes General Manager Wins Award

The Canadian Mental Health Association Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge (CMHA HKPR) has awarded Petes GM and vice-president of Operations Mike Oke with the 2024 Naresh James Champion of Mental Health Award.

Photo supplied by peterborough petes

The annual award recognizes an individual who has championed, critical challenges, pioneered initiatives and achieved lasting impacts in support for those who live with mental health issues.

CMHA HKPR’s Jack Veitch nominated Oke for the award, citing his dedication to the work on the OHL’s Talk Today Program as well as his commitment to the mental health of his players and staff.

The award was presented at Wednesday's CMHA HKPR Annual General Meeting.

“Mike Oke transformed the Peterborough Petes' approach to mental health and wellness,” said Veitch. “In 2013, he and the Petes partnered with the CMHA to pilot the 'Talk Today' program, which became a national movement in Canadian junior hockey.”

“We piloted the Talk Today program in 2013 after the initiative was brought to us by Dave and Heather Pogue,” Oke added. “We were the first team to implement the program with our players and staff here in Peterborough, it then became mandatory in the entire CHL, growing to involve other junior hockey leagues in Canada.”

Oke noted they know of at least one situation where the work of the team’s support staff has had direct life saving impact in the community.

“These individuals work very closely with our players and staff daily to help eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health,” Oke said.

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City of Peterborough Hands Out 2023 Civic Awards

The 2023 Civic Awards were presented by City Council at the McDonnel Street Community Centre on Tuesday.

civc awards photo

The awards recognize contributions to the community that enriched the lives of residents and outstanding individual and group achievements in the city in 2023, according to a City of Peterborough media release.

“It’s an honour to recognize the outstanding achievements and efforts of these exceptional individuals who have gone above and beyond in contributing to the life of our community,” mayor Jeff Leal said. “Their dedication, hard work, and commitment to making our city a better place is truly inspiring.”

Award Recipients:

Community Betterment

• Peterborough Police Auxiliary Unit

• Myles Conner

• Irish Millie

• Jennifer and Braden Glasbergen

• Marie Gulliver

• Dave Rumball

• Peterborough Lions Club

Cultural Betterment

• Sebastian Johnston-Lindsay

• Tina Avlonitis

Environmental Stewardship/Sustainability

• Ashburnham Memorial Stewardship Group

Athletic Award of Merit

• Holy Cross Secondary School Girls Hockey Team

• Chelsea Burton

• Kenner Senior Boys Basketball Team

• MacKenna Hancock

Holnbeck Award

• John McNutt

Junior Athlete of the Year

• Alexis Jenkins

Youth Volunteer of the Year

• Titus Ngouepo

Volunteer of the Year

• Greg McLeod

Lifetime Achievement Award

• Ron Cambridge

“On behalf of the entire city, I extend our heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to all of this year's recipients,” Leal said.

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Peterborough County Family Recognized For Sports Volunteer Efforts With Commemorative Plaque

Township Council, Staff and community members gathered to celebrate the unveiling of the Wilford Family plaque at the Douglas Sports Centre Ball Diamond in Lakefield on Thursday evening.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough County.

This plaque has been installed to acknowledge the Wilford family (Jim, Yvonne and children Jessica and her husband Shawn, and Jimmy) for contributing to youth sports in our community.

“What stands out about the Wilford family is their deep commitment to the members of our community. They haven’t just supported our sports programs—they’ve helped build them,” said Sherry Senis, Selwyn Township Mayor. “Whether through countless volunteer hours, coaching, organizing, or contributing to the construction and maintenance of our ball diamonds, the Wilford’s have poured their hearts into making sure our kids have the opportunities and facilities they need to thrive and play.”

The Township of Selwyn would again like to thank the Wilford family for their commitment to our community.

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Pathway of Fame 2024 Inductees to Be Honoured Sept. 10

The Pathway of Fame, Peterborough & District will honour its 10 inductees for the Class of 2024 at Showplace Performance Centre on Sept. 10 at 7 p.m.

The Pathway of Fame, Peterborough & District is a not-for-profit organization formed in 1997 to honour community citizens and individuals in the Arts and Humanities. Photo courtesy of the Pathway of Fame.

The Pathway of Fame, Peterborough and District will conduct its annual Induction Ceremony for the first time as an evening event.

The formal induction is open to the public and is not a ticketed event.

Doors open at 6 p.m. and the evening starts with a performance by 'The Heritage Trio’ – comprised of Barry Haggarty, Terry Finn and Ken DesChamp – on the main stage at about 6:15 p.m. until 7 p.m.

Past inductee and Pathway co-founder Graham Hart is the master of ceremonies with the event broadcasted by YourTV.

The following are this year’s class of inductees:

Spencer J. Harrison (Artist, activist and academic)

When it comes to expressing his views, particularly leading the call for a change in attitudes around equity and inclusion for members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community, Spencer J. Harrison’s voice and influence have resonated strongly.

Having attained a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Queen’s University (1987), a Master of Arts from Trent University (2003) and, most recently, his Doctor of Philosophy from the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (2014), Harrison, in 2014, completed The Freak Show: A Painted Autoethnographic Exploration of Growing Up Gay in Rural Ontario in the 1960s – Canada’s first painted doctoral dissertation.

Positioning artists in the academic world as knowledge creators, Harrison’s art is exhibited and collected across Canada and beyond the country’s borders. His art has been referenced in the House of Commons as part of the effort to change more than 70 laws to provide more inclusion for the 2SLGBTQ+ community.

Harrison was the founding director of Camp fYrefly, a Trent University-based leadership retreat for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans-identified, two-spirited, intersexed, queer, questioning and allied youth. Under his leadership, the camp combined arts-based and Indigenous knowledge and practices to help youth build strong positive identities, moving away from self-harm issues.

Harrison’s work has been exhibited for several years, his thought-provoking work displayed at galleries in Toronto, Belleville, Milton, and Ottawa. His newest exhibition, Does It Give You The Gay, is confirmed for this winter at the Art Gallery of Peterborough, where Spencer is the artist mentor for youths planning to pursue the medium at the post-secondary level.

For more than 12 years now, Harrison has taught at Toronto’s Ontario College of Art and Design (OCAD) University, specializing in courses that explore subject matter and the value of the makers of their crafts. At OCAD, he has been honoured with the Non-Tenured Teaching Award and the BLG Equity Teaching Award. Earlier, he served as artist-in-residence at Trent University in 1994-1995.

Photo courtesy of the Pathway of Fame.

John Lewis (Music)

Peterborough city and county is widely known 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. He remains local music’s head cheerleader, bringing to our attention the incredible talent of the many musical artists. 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, 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 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 due to 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 highlighting 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 Pathway of Fame.

Earl Wilfong (Musician) 

Many perform music but few live the experience 24-7.

As a lifelong entertainer, Earl Wilfong’s love of performing anywhere and everywhere is unparalleled. Where there’s an audience, there’s a will to do what he does and do it very well.

Born and raised in Peterborough, Wilfong’s passion for music was kindled at age 8 in church choir settings. A year later, he added the drums and guitar to his musical arsenal, forming his first band at age 11 before honing his talents through high school when, at age 17, he came away a winner from the Canadian Jazz Stage Band Festival, earning all-star drummer status in the process.

Wilfong subsequently took his talent across Canada, the United States and overseas to Germany and The Netherlands. Comfortable with almost any music genre, he has performed with Jack Bailey, Joe Henderson, Lisle, Highway and Blindstone Bridge, to name but a few. If that’s not impressive enough, he has shared stages with The Kentucky Headhunters, Rosanne Cash, The Good Brothers, Valdy, Burton Cummings and the late Jeff Healey.

Despite a busy performance schedule, one undeniable truth has remained constant—Wilfong has never forgotten where he comes from. That has not only brought him numerous collaborations with local musicians such as Danny Bronson, Barry Haggarty, and Cyril Rawson but also benefitted numerous local organizations and charities. Simply put, Wilfong has rarely, if ever, said ‘no’ to gifting his talents to benefit this cause or that.

The list of benefactors of Wilfong’s charitable ways is long and varied: the United Way, the Children’s Aid Society, Activity Haven, the Canadian Cancer Society, The Festival of Trees, the Peterborough Regional Health Centre and the Peterborough Arts community… The list goes on and on. The homeless, the hungry and the disenfranchised among us have eased their plight due to Wilfong’s unwavering commitment to their wellbeing.

Just as he soaked up music at a young age, many young aspiring musicians have benefitted from Wilfong’s willingness to mentor them. For a number of years, he has taught music lessons, no doubt passing on the most important lesson of all—love the music, and the rest will fall into place.

Photo courtesy of the Pathway of Fame.

Melissa Payne (Musician)

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 she is a formidable force today, 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 consistently bringing 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 working 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 also drawn on her talent.

The thread through Payne’s contributions to music and the arts is her unselfish willingness to support up-and-coming performers. Her mentoring of those with a musical dream knows no bounds, as she provides invaluable advice on booking gigs, publicity, and other business trappings. If Payne is in your corner, chances are very good that success will follow.

Many who know Payne well note her ability to mobilize others and rally support for important causes. Blessed with 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.”

Photo courtesy of the Pathway of Fame.

Jim Hendry (Journalist)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photo courtesy of the Pathway of Fame.

Glen Caradus (Singer-songwriter)

Music has long been effective as a means of communicating a message to a specific group.

In between the 1960s, Bob Dylan and Pete Seeger, to name a few, spoke to anti-war protesters and civil rights activists in a voice they understood and rallied around. Fast forward to the new millennium and Peterborough singer-songwriter Glen Caradus who, for some 20 years now, has, through his music, spoken to countless children and young people about the environment and nature and their developing role in the preservation of both.

As an educator with Camp Kawartha, Ecology Park and the Canadian Canoe Museum, Caradus’ exuberant and creative teaching style has seen him add his exceptional storyteller and puppeteer skills to the mix. Since 1999, The Paddling Puppeteers, a musical puppet show he created, has enlightened kids across the country on topics such as shoreline naturalization, a critically endangered prairie ecosystem and the geological history of the Peterborough region.

Able to play multiple instruments, Caradus is also an accomplished musician, having recorded three children’s CDs, each with an environmental or nature theme.

Caradus practices what he sings of. He cycles more than he drives, and his electric hybrid provides his ride when he does drive. His garden is home to native trees, shrubs and wildflowers that he gives away for free, and under the cover of darkness, he sometimes undertakes ‘guerilla re-wilding’ – the planting of native trees in parks and green spaces in a bid to improve biodiversity.

More recently, Caradus created The Ride for Climate. In 2021, he cycled 350 kilometres over 14 hours, raising money for Peterborough Green-Up. The following year, joined by his friend Nick Ormond, Caradus covered 421 kilometres in 20 hours, bringing in more than $10,000 for Camp Kawartha and Rowan Tree Children’s School’s nature-based programming. And in 2023, Caradus logged 280 kilometres, raising more than $5,000 to the benefit of For Our Grandchildren’s climate change education efforts.

First Nations and reconciliation awareness is also near and dear to Caradus’ heart and, on that front, he has been very active. In 2014, he partnered with the Rotary Club of Peterborough-Kawartha to create Adventure In Understanding, a since annual six-day/five-night culture-based canoe experience for First Nation and non-native youths aged 16 to 18. The 100-kilometre trek through the Kawartha Lakes culminates at Curve Lake First Nation. Participants engage in reconciliation by learning about First Nations in the region, connecting with Elders and the land and being together.

Meanwhile, the developmentally disabled have benefitted from Caradus’ voluntarism. Over the past three years, he has volunteered for the Dream Players, which performs musical theatre. Other benefactors of Caradus’ time and talents include the Five Counties Children’s Centre and, for 25 years now, Ecology Park where he helps with its gardens and tree nursery. 

Photo courtesy of the Pathway of Fame.

J. Murray Jones (Politician)

Peterborough County and, by extension, rural eastern Ontario have a champion, and his name is J. Murray Jones.

Upon retirement in 2022, Jones departed politics as the longest-serving warden of Peterborough County—an 11-year run that capped a stellar municipal government career that also saw him serve many years as mayor of Douro-Dummer Township and chair of the Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus.

In the political game, there have been, and still are, few who command the respect that Jones has earned. Blessed with an over-the-top personality, marked by a booming voice and a near-infectious laugh, it’s hard not to like Jones. But don’t be fooled. The requisite attributes of an effective politician – leadership, vision, and passion – are present in abundance, and their effectiveness as a representative of the people can be found therein.

Jones arrived in the Peterborough region in 1970. After several years in radio broadcasting and cable television, he founded and published The Dummer News, continuing to do so after being first elected in 1998 as a Douro-Dummer councillor.

While mayor of the township from 2003 until his retirement, Jones served as county warden for 11 years and was elected chair of the Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus in 2011.

As chair of the Eastern Ontario Regional Network from 2011 to 2022, Jones championed two projects near and dear to his heart: the implementation of broadband expansion providing high-speed internet access for rural eastern Ontario residents and businesses, and the securing of provincial and federal dollars for the expansion of cellular services in eastern Ontario. Both advances proved hugely beneficial during the pandemic as homes and cottages became the new workplace for thousands across eastern Ontario.

During the pandemic years, Jones exhibited the same commitment to the well-being of residents. A strong supporter of public health measures put in place, he led by example, not only volunteering at COVID-related clinics but also being among the first to roll up a sleeve and get vaccinated.

Tough as nails when he had to be, Jones tempered that with an affability still remembered with fondness by most all he met. He consistently took the time to visit with county staff, learning and remembering the names of each, from those working on road maintenance crews to the CAOs of the various townships. With a quick wit and an easy banter, Jones’ knack for putting at ease all he met remains a highly respected attribute. Often using humour to defuse the tension of difficult situations, Jones ensured everyone’s view was heard, believing that compromise and consensus are at the core of governing unflappable. 

Still connected to the community, Jones recently expressed his desire to volunteer with a County committee – proof positive that keeping a good man down is indeed difficult.

Photo courtesy of the Pathway of Fame.

Tegan Moss (Environment)

Whether promoting active transportation or working to increase climate resilience through community building, Tegan Moss is in a league of her own in ensuring that our world is a better place.

Trent University-educated – she attained her Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Environmental Studies – Moss was the longtime executive director of B!KE: The Peterborough Community Bike Shop before being named the executive director of Peterborough GreenUP in September 2021. Moss’s selfless dedication and leadership in fostering positive change and empowerment are common to both roles.

In 2011, Moss assumed the executive directorship of B!KE, a not-for-profit member-based cycling education and support organization that has taught bike maintenance, repair, and riding skills from its George Street location in Peterborough’s downtown core since 2006.

Under Moss’ guidance, B!KE’s impact flourished with the expansion of cycling education initiatives. Via strategic collaborations, including a partnership with GreenUP, Moss spearheaded innovative programs, such as in-school cycling programs, community workshops and the Earn-A-Bike program, which provides access to a bike for those with limited means.

Moss’ leadership of B!KE didn’t go unnoticed. Among the accolades that came her way were the Wheels of Change Award from the Share The Road Cycling Coalition in recognition of her dedication to educating the next generation and the Peterborough-Kawartha Women’s Leadership Award, a nod to her influence and commitment to the advancement of her community.

As a staunch advocate of increased active transportation, Moss went above and beyond to convince the City of Peterborough to add more bike lanes to the infrastructure landscape. Speaking before the city council, writing letters and campaigning, Moss did whatever it took to sell the benefits of active transportation and should be lobbying tirelessly for its prioritization and inclusion as part of Peterborough’s overall transportation plan.

When the executive director role with Peterborough GreenUP opened after Brianna Salmon moved on to become executive director of Green Communities Canada, Moss jumped on the opportunity, eager for the challenge of leading the organization that, since 1991, has helped countless area residents lead more healthier eco-friendly lives.

When she’s not engaging with the community to help them better address the climate crisis, Moss can often be found doing just what you would expect – riding her mountain bike or getting her hands dirty in her wild garden. She indeed practices what she preaches and, in fact, was doing so long before it became common practice to do so.

Photo courtesy of the Pathway of Fame.

Ray Ostapovich (Community Volunteer)

Good things typically follow when someone is predisposed to help others find his niche.

More than 17 years ago, as a member of the Peterborough Lions Club, Ray Ostapovich was a key player in developing the service club’s Handicap/Medical Equipment Loan Program.

That was then, and this is now. Now, a wide range of used assistive devices and medical equipment—walkers, wheelchairs, medical beds, crutches, and the like—have been donated to the club for Ostapovich to collect and repair/refurbish for use by anyone in need.

Impressive, especially considering that Ostapovich is still hard at it… At age 88.

Once notified that equipment is available, Ostapovich initiates the collection process, bringing the donation to his workshop. There, he inspects and repairs the equipment, logging it in his inventory. That done, he waits for the call from someone who, already burdened by health issues and, often, related financial challenges, is hard-pressed to purchase expensive new equipment. Ostapovich then moves quickly to loan the needed equipment at no cost.

A number of organizations in Peterborough, such as PRHC, and many occupational therapists, are well aware of Ostapovich’s work and refer patients to him. In record time, he facilitates delivery and, if necessary, provides set-up in the patient’s home.

As of September 2023, more than 3,600 pieces of medical equipment and assistive devices were on loan. Better still, Ostapovich’s garage is home to a large stockpile of equipment ready for the next call for help—a testament to his determination to ensure the demand is met, no matter how high.

As a huge side benefit, the environment comes away a big winner. Without Ostapovich’s intervention, many donated items would have been otherwise discarded. By repurposing each piece of donated equipment, he gives new life to that which, at one time, could have been landfill-bound.

A member of the Peterborough Lions Club for nearly 60 years, Ostapovich is a past chair of the Canadian Hearing Society, the Lions Multiple District A Hearing Committee and the Lions District A3 Hearing Committee – the latter a position he held for 40 years.

Photo courtesy of the Pathway of Fame.

Kirk Wipper

If timing is everything, there is no better time than now to honour Kirk Wipper.

Back in May, when the new Peterborough home of the Canadian Canoe Museum was officially opened, it’s certain that Wipper was in the thoughts of many, and for very good reason. Without his generosity, love of watercraft and foresight, the museum wouldn’t have opened at its original Peterborough location in 1997.

In the late 1950s, Wipper started his extraordinary collection of canoes, a process kicked off by the gift of a rare circa 1890 basswood dugout destined to become the centrepiece of the museum. Wipper subsequently travelled the country in search of canoes to secure, housing each in a building at Camp Kandalore that later became home to the Kanawa International Museum of Canoes, Kayaks, and Rowing Craft.

The world’s largest collection of watercraft grew to contain more than 500 canoes and related artifacts, prompting the suggestion that Peterborough would be an ideal location for a permanent museum to store and display them. With numerous volunteers on board, developing a knowledge centre about the canoe was floated and adopted, leading to the opening of the Canadian Canoe Museum at the Monaghan Road location of the former Outboard Marine.

Besides providing the inspiration and the springboard for what has become the internationally recognized home of all things canoe, Wipper has also been instrumental in ensuring the immense contributions of Indigenous peoples to Canada’s growth and development have been kept front of mind.

A volunteer with several canoe, paddling, camping, and water safety organizations, Wipper served 45 years with the Royal Lifesaving Society of Canada and was a national director of the Duke of Edinburgh Awards. The Canadian Recreational Canoeing Association, which later became Paddle Canada, benefited from Wipper serving as the inaugural chair of its History and Archives Committee.

In 2002, Wipper was fittingly appointed a member of the Order of Canada. When he passed 12 years later, tributes to his and his life work poured forth. Among those taking the time to honour him was James Raffan, the executive director of the Canadian Canoe Museum at the time.

“If you look at the tributes to Kirk that are pouring in, you will see that he indeed changed the world for the better,” wrote Raffan.

“This is surely the end of an era. Kirk will be missed but his legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of the members, volunteers, staff and friends of the museum (entrusted with) stewardship of these 600 canoes and kayaks – this unique portrait of Canada he created.”

Photo courtesy of the Pathway of Fame.

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City of Peterborough Given Municipal Innovation Award

The Peter J. Marshall Innovation Award Jury has presented the City of Peterborough with its highest award for its Modular Bridge Housing Community project.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

The award was presented to Mayor Jeff Leal at the 2024 AMO Conference in Ottawa.

“I am incredibly proud that Peterborough’s transitional housing project has been recognized with the prestigious Peter J. Marshall 2024 Municipal Innovation Award,” said Leal. “This award is a testament to our city's commitment to addressing homelessness with compassion, creativity, and a focus on practical solutions.”

The City spearheaded the transitional housing project in May last year to address a long-term encampment in downtown Peterborough. With help from the provincial Homelessness Prevention Program, the City built 50 modular homes, shared washroom facilities and a central service hub in just six months according to a press release. 

Engagement with encampment residents was key to the project’s success. Community outreach workers gathered input from 75 residents to ensure the modular home community would fit their needs. Considerations included everything from site design and location to security, operations and pet policies. 

The Peterborough Modular Bridge Housing Community was built at the original encampment site. During construction, residents were moved to a vacant parking lot across the street which was the City’s first temporary sanctioned encampment. 

By November last year, the first residents moved into their new modular homes. The community had a 98 per cent move-in rate for the first 50 people who were offered units. This is not typical for transitional housing programs, which normally see a 40 to 60 per cent move-in rate.

Within the first six months of operation, four people acquired jobs, one person moved into permanent housing, and emergency service calls were 90 per cent lower than when the site operated as an encampment. Staff have also reported significant improvements in the mental and physical health of the residents.

“As a Council, we knew we had to move beyond the natural tendency to stop when faced with an overwhelmingly complex challenge like homelessness,” said Leal. “We knew we had to pick a lane. We learned from the experiences of others and our professional staff delivered this project with urgency and expertise. Municipalities have shown they can innovate to create lasting positive change in our communities. I’m proud of the decisive, bold, caring approach that we have taken.”

“The modular home program at Wolfe St. is a great example of a municipality thinking outside of the box to properly use the Homelessness Prevention Program to reduce homelessness in Peterborough’s vulnerable community,” said Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP.

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