By Pam Wright
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Several individuals who inspire Chatham-Kent’s creative and cultural landscape are set to be recognized Oct. 23.
That’s when they will be inducted into the Chatham-Kent Cultural Hall of Fame at a special ceremony to be held at the Chatham Cultural Centre in Studio One.
Chosen by way of a community-based nomination process, the 2025 inductees include Troy Brooks of Wallaceburg for visual arts; Tracy Hoyt of Chatham for performing arts and Sam Panopoulos of Chatham in the cultural builders’ category.
Chatham’s Patrick Kastoff is being recognized in the dance category; North Buxton’s Bryan Prince has the nod for his role in Literary Arts and Stephanie Copeland of Wallaceburg is acknowledged in the music category.
Legacy inductees include Shelton Brooks of North Buxton and Ken Crone of Chatham.
Formerly called the CK Arts & Culture Heroes Wall of Fame, the initiative is presented by the CK Arts Council (CKAC). Inductees are honoured with a permanent plaque and biography in the Hall of Fame located within the Cultural Centre.
In a media release, CKAC board chair Laurie Langford said she’s deeply inspired by this year’s inductees.
“2025 marks the fourth year for this important event,” Langford stated. “Our eight inductees represent unwavering commitment and ongoing dedication to their chosen fields. Their passion has contributed to the region’s cultural landscape while shaping the world around us.”
Two young people will also be recognized. Tara J. Wilson and Ryan Tetreault have been chosen to receive Emerging Youth Artist Scholarship Awards.
The event is sponsored by the Municipality of Chatham-Kent through its Together CK Community Events grant program and Waste Connections of Canada, operator of the Ridge Landfill.
“We are tremendously proud to be a founding partner of this event,” said Cathy Smith, Waste Connections of Canada project manager. “We believe that in highlighting the success and contributions of these individuals and groups, we can help inspire future generations of young artists to chase their own dreams and achievements.”
The event begins with a reception at 6 p.m. followed by the awards ceremony at 7 p.m. Admission is by donation.
