Inaugural Induction Ceremony for Sports and Entertainment Hall of Fame

Six former and current town residents were immortalized in the Petawawa Sports and Entertainment Hall of Fame (PSEHOF).

On June 15, these six incredible people were inducted before friends, family, and admirers. Their remarkable contributions to the community and the world at large are forever available for future generations to look up to when walking the halls of the Petawawa Civic Centre.

“Our goal is to inspire the youth of Petawawa to excel in sports and entertainment and in trying to achieve their goals in all aspects of life,” said PSEHOF Committee member Sean Chase.

By creating this wall and displaying assorted memorabilia, the PSEHOF honours, celebrates, preserves and shares the outstanding achievements and contributions of those who brought recognition to the town of Petawawa through sport and entertainment.

Former NHL forward Ray Sheppard, former Detroit Red Wings centreman Roy Giesebrecht, award-winning Canadian country music artist Jason Blaine, world-renowned opera singer Joshua Hopkins, Petawawa Ski Hill founder Fred Molson and dedicated sports and community leader Willard Mohns were all selected for the hall’s inaugural year. The next crop of leaders will be announced in 2020. Nominations are being accepted.

A great fan or a loved one who was instrumental in their success presented a plaque to the inductee or their representative, and a video highlighted some of their great achievements and impact they’ve had.

Blaine surprised the crowd with a few songs, ending the official ceremony with an impromptu concert. “This is certainly, certainly an honour,” he said. “I am humbled to be here, especially amongst the other inductees this evening.

These are my stomping grounds. I grew up here on James Street.”

Locally, many of the inductees have become a legend and have become synonymous with the area, their achievements becoming something that the entire community takes pride in.

Their hard work, whether in an arena, on the stage or simply building the community, has etched their name in the very fabric of the town.

“Thank you for this honour ... what you have here is just an old fool who thought for six years that he could make a mountain out of a molehill,” said Molson about the ski hill that remains a popular community recreation asset.

For these chosen six, Petawawa was more than just their town; it was where they grew their talents and had the opportunity to shine.

“It all started here,” said Sheppard. “I am very fortunate to be elected to this Hall of Fame.” Ultimately, the PSEHOF is a labour of love made possible through the dedication and hard work of a team of volunteers, namely PSEHOF Committee President Gary Serviss, one of the major forces behind its creation.

“You have to take a few minutes out of the evening to recognize the vision that Gary brought to the table with this particular initiative,” said Mayor Bob Sweet.

“This is just absolutely marvelous,” he added.

Details on the recipients can be found at www.facebook.com/PSEHallofFame.