Leardi awards five King Charles III Coronation Medals
- Ron Giofu
- Apr 1
- 2 min read

A special ceremony was held in Harrow on the weekend where King Charles III Coronation Medals were awarded.
Essex MPP Anthony Leardi hosted the event at The Shine restaurant last Saturday afternoon where medals were presented to Jack Howson, John Fox, Vincent Georgie, William (Bill) Shea and Paul Mastronardi.
Howson and his family were credited to enhancing Ontario’s cattle industry for generations, driving innovation and excellence in farming while preserving their agricultural heritage.
Fox was described in an introduction by Leardi as “a dedicated police officer and fire marshal” who “exemplifies courage and public service.” Fox sustained a severe on-the-job injury but “his commitment to safeguarding the community remains unwavering.”
Fox said he was deeply honoured by the medal and thanked those who think of others.
“I’ve always been a believer in community and those who work towards it,” he said.
Georgie, introduced as a visionary leader and film advocate, was credited as growing the Windsor International Film Festival (WIFF) into Canada’s largest volunteer-run film festival.
“His dedication to arts and media inspires and empowers communities across Windsor-Essex and beyond,” said Leardi.
Georgie said he was honoured by the King Charles III Coronation Medal but said it was due to the community the festival celebrated its 21st year.
“(WIFF) is so successful because the community built it,” said Georgie.
Shea, a World War II veteran, is a lifelong Royal Canadian Legion member. It was pointed out he has over 60 years of dedication to the community.
“His leadership, generosity and commitment to supporting veterans and the Legion have left a lasting impact,” said Leardi.
Mastronardi also said he was honoured for the medal, thanking his family and everyone involved in the process. He said he is happy to be in an industry that helps feed the community.
Mastronardi was described in his introduction as “a greenhouse pioneer” and someone who helped revolutionize fresh produce marketing with innovations such as the Campari Tomato and the industry-first Traceability programs.
“His lifelong dedication has transformed Ontario’s produce industry locally and globally,” said Leardi.
Leardi said medals like the King Charles III Coronation Medal are minted only when there is a new king or queen. He said they are rare and this was the first one that has been minted in his lifetime. He called Saturday’s recipients “a fine example of the people who live in Essex County.”Essex MP Chris Lewis recently presented 30 medals to county residents, including four from Amherstburg.
Leardi awards five King Charles III Coronation Medals
By Ron Giofu
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