King’s Coronation Medals awarded to Dufferin-Caledon residents

Medals awarded during March 20 ceremony at Mount Alverno

By ZACHARY ROMAN

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Residents in Dufferin and Caledon who have made major contributions to their community and country were recognized last week.

On March 20, King Charles III Coronation Medals were handed out in a ceremony at Mount Alverno Luxury Resorts in Caledon. 

The ceremony was emceed by Caledon's Regional Councillor for Wards 4, 5 and 6, Mario Russo. It was hosted by Kyle Seeback, Dufferin-Caledon MP at the time, in his last public event before the election was called.

Russo shared with attendees the context of the medals. He explained that in May 2023, to mark the coronation of King Charles III, it was announced that 30,000 Coronation Medals would be distributed across Canada to be awarded to people who have made a significant contribution to their community, province/territory, or Canada.

“The medal is a way to recognize outstanding individuals of all ages and from all walks of life,” said Russo. “Our shared sense of purpose as Canadians is strengthened when we collectively honour those who distinguish themselves by virtue of their talents, generosity, and service to their community and country.”

Russo said residents of Dufferin and Caledon are extremely proud of, and grateful to, the medal winners.

Here's a full list of medal winners, as noted in the medal ceremony program: Deep Singh Bains, Linda Banks, Alan Boughton, Beth Brown, Ed De Sousa, James Dick, Ajay Duggal, Patricia Franks, Bryan Peter Goustos, Peter Harold Harris, Steve Hayward, John Edward Ince, Martello Jones, Barbara Karasiuk, Larry Kurtz, Jasjot Singh Lamme, Bonnie Ledson, Sarah Mailhot, Randy McClelland, John McDermid, Jim Pattison, Brian Sheldon Price, Lori Schickedanz, Barrie Shepley, Chuck Simpson, Joe Tersigni, David Allan Tilson, and Wayne Townsend. 

“Your time and efforts have significantly contributed to the betterment of our community. The selfless service you've consistently demonstrated has not gone unnoticed. We've gathered here tonight to recognize not only your achievements, but also the sacrifices you personally made for that service… tonight, we say thank you,” said Russo.

Seeback explained that all the medal winners were nominated by members of the Dufferin-Caledon community and that he had the extremely difficult job of narrowing down the nominations to the number of medals he was allocated to award.

“You should feel honoured that the community has recognized you,” said Seeback to the winners. “All of you here tonight have made contributions that have made our community stronger, so I want to absolutely thank you for what you've done.”

Seeback said Dufferin and Caledon are lucky to have amazing community leaders.

“I'm so happy to be able to say that the sacrifices you've made for your community have been recognized, and you can accept that recognition tonight. So congratulations to each and every one of you,” said Seeback.

He also commended the friends and family of the award winners for the important role they play.