Order of Vaughan recognizes sci-fi author, 3 other high-profile figures

Stephen King described Wilson as 'probably the finest science-fiction author now writing'

Yorkregion.com
December 14, 2018
Dina Al-Shibeeb

Pragmatism surround Vaughan's news, especially that related to the building of Mackenzie Hospital and maybe some mishaps emanating from real estate development projects like condo cancellations.

It’s no wonder that Michael DeGasperi, vice-president of TACC Group of Companies, was among the three other recipients of the Order of Vaughan award on Wednesday, Dec. 12. The DeGasperis family, jointly with the Kohn’s, donated a whopping $20 million toward the hospital, slated to open its doors officially in 2020.

“I worked 16 to 17 years to bring a hospital to Vaughan,” he said, urging for more fundraising. So far, more than $100 million has been achieved out of the $250 million target to build and fund the health institute.

Altaf Stationwala, president and CEO of Mackenzie Health, was also among the recipients, but he couldn't attend the ceremony held at the city of Vaughan.

Maria Castro, president of the Board of Directors, Hospice Vaughan, was a recipient of the award as well. Hospice Vaughan is a not-for-profit organization that has been providing compassionate support to individuals facing a life-limiting illness since 1995.

The oddball

However, the only seeming oddball is Robert Charles Wilson, an internationally acclaimed and award-winning science fiction writer, whose first book was published in 1986.

“I am pleased to be here,” he said. “I feel I am joke of the pack of these people who have done so many wonderful things for the community while I was quietly sitting at home writing books.”

Author Stephen King described Wilson as "probably the finest science-fiction author now writing."

The Order of Vaughan was an initiative first launched by Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua in 2016 to mark the municipality's 25th anniversary. The award recognizes outstanding people within the following categories: arts and entertainment, media and communications, athletics, health and wellness, business, philanthropy, public service, education, science and technology, not-for-profit, equity and diversity, accessibility, environment, and spirituality.

At the ceremony, the mayor told the recipients, “Thank you for being you.”