Fifteen exceptional individuals from Orillia were celebrated Wednesday evening for their outstanding contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The King Charles III Coronation Commemorative Medals were presented by Ontario Senator Gwen Boniface at Creative Nomad Studios in downtown Orillia.
The medal recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to Canada, or their specific provinces, regions, or communities. Speaking at the ceremony, Boniface expressed her admiration for the honorees’ dedication during a critical time.
“These people served our most vulnerable,” Boniface said. “They made a remarkable difference in our community and did a phenomenal job.”
Boniface, a long-time Orillia resident, worked closely with Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital president and CEO Carmine Stumpo to select the recipients. She emphasized the importance of acknowledging the efforts of healthcare workers and community leaders who risked their safety to support others during the pandemic.
“It was important for people in healthcare to be recognized for all that they did,” she said. “While we stayed home, they went to work.”
Stumpo noted the challenge of narrowing down a list of worthy candidates, given the extensive contributions made during the pandemic.
“The recipients reflect leaders who came together to support the community through a difficult time,” he said. “They embody the spirit of this community.”
Among the honorees was former Orillia Fire Chief Brent Thomas, who called the recognition humbling.
“The pandemic was a difficult time for a lot of people,” Thomas said. “This medal brings back memories of being part of a team that responded to the pandemic. It’s an honour to stand alongside them.”
Orillia Youth Centre Executive Director Kevin Gangloff highlighted the collective effort that led to his recognition.
“The community allows us to do the work that gives our youth opportunities,” Gangloff said. “It’s very humbling, and I want to thank the Youth Centre staff and the community for this honour.”
Lighthouse Executive Director Linda Goodall similarly credited her team and the community for the medal.
“It’s the individuals in the community who truly make a difference,” Goodall said. “We do it together, it’s a true community effort.”
Former Orillia Mayor Steve Clarke, who was instrumental in creating the city’s Economic Recovery Task Force and shepherding the municipality through the pandemic, shared similar sentiments.
“This award is a reflection of the task force’s work,” Clarke said. “The committee met over 400 times during the pandemic and did a phenomenal job. I’m humbled to accept this on their behalf.”
The recipients of the King Charles III Coronation Commemorative Medal include:
- Rama First Nation Elder Lorraine McRae
- Todd Borden
- Steve Clarke
- Chris Peacock
- Linda Goodall
- Kevin Gangloff
- Brent Thomas
- Carrie Hassberger
- Candy Spencer-Walt
- Stephanie Cluff
- Dr. Kim McIntosh
- Melanie Moore
- Dr. Lindsay Alston
- Dr. Aaron Barnett
- Stephanie Duesharm
