Leamington council held their 2025 Mayor’s Recognition Awards ceremony on Tuesday, July 22 at council chambers, with seven awards being presented to area residents who have made a difference in Leamington through various means.
The awards program celebrates individuals, groups and organizations that have brought distinction, honour and pride to the Leamington community.
“These awards are a celebration of the people who help shape our community for the better,” said Mayor Hilda MacDonald. “Whether through acts of service, leadership or quiet kindness, each recipient has made a meaningful difference in the lives of others. It’s truly an honour to celebrate their contributions and stories.”
The first award of the night went to one of Leamington’s most dedicated young volunteers in Lily Steinhoff, who took home the Outstanding Youth Award. Lily is an exceptional young leader and passionate advocate for the Tourette Syndrome community. As a trained Youth Ambassador and Rising Leader with the Tourette Association of America, she has advocated for increased funding by meeting with senators and representatives. She also volunteers with people of all ages, served on the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Committee in 2023, and was highly engaged in school through her participation in the student council, track and competitive gymnastics.
Next up was the Distinguished Voluntary Service Award, which was presented to Kevin Gale. As President of the Leamington Minor Baseball Association for the past decade, Kevin has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of baseball in Leamington. Under his leadership, the association has become a model for Minor Baseball in Southwestern Ontario, with several players advancing to collegiate and semi-professional levels. Kevin and his family have remained deeply committed, investing both their time and resources, including the establishment of a baseball training facility in uptown Leamington.
The Community Inspiration Award was presented to Warren Dunford, a true ambassador for Leamington, dedicating countless hours over the years to organizations such as Minor Hockey, Minor Baseball and the Sun Parlour Curling Club. Known for doing the behind-the-scenes heavy lifting, Warren brings heart and humour to everything he does, including the beloved, ever-changing messages he posts on the Leamington Curling Club sign, bringing smiles to passersby.
The first Mayor’s Special Award of the evening went to Mark Ribble and Jerry Ribble. The uncle-nephew team spearheaded the town’s Hometown Heroes banner project in 2019 and still oversee it today. Thanks to their leadership and community engagement, personalized banners featuring local veterans, including names, service eras, branches, ranks and photos, are proudly displayed throughout uptown Leamington each fall.
The second Mayor’s Special Award of the evening, given posthumously, was to the late Lorraine Gibson and presented to her sister Carol Bell. Born and raised in Montreal, Lorraine brought a lifetime of compassion and community service to Leamington after settling here later in life. A dedicated advocate for guest workers, her work with the Migrant Worker Community Program and the South Essex Community Council (SECC) left a lasting impact on countless lives. While raising three children, Lorraine earned her law degree, demonstrating both determination and a deep commitment to justice. She was also an active member of Toastmasters and had a long-standing history of service with the Canadian Red Cross. In 2019, she received SECC’s Volunteer Change Maker Award in recognition of her tireless efforts and commitment to those most in need.
The Mayor’s Special Award for Heroism was awarded, fittingly, to two recent heroes. Callahan and Lyla Kivell sprung into action on July 8 to save a struggling boater, with Lyla manning the phone and Callahan manning the lifejackets. Their quick thinking helped a fellow human being in distress and the story was outlined on the front page of the Southpoint Sun the following week. The pair of teens received a standing ovation from all who were in attendance. Callahan and Lyla’s actions are a powerful reminder of the impact of preparedness, community spirit and true heroism.
Last but not least, the Ontario Senior of the Year Award was presented to Leamington’s own Dr. Martin Girash, a respected leader whose lifelong contributions to healthcare, education and community service have left a lasting impact. From serving as President and CEO of Windsor Regional Hospital to Chair of the Erie St. Clair LHIN and the University of Windsor’s Board of Governors, Martin has dedicated himself to public service. More recently, he served on Leamington’s Seniors’ Advisory Committee, including as Chair. Martin continues to show that retirement is no barrier to making a meaningful difference in the community.
