Therapy dog, ballet teacher named to mayor's 2019 New Year's honours list

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A retiree who brings music to seniors, a ballet teacher who spreads her love of dance and a service dog that helps to calm young people testifying in court are among those being honoured for their contributions to the city.

Eight Londoners – plus one canine – are named on the annual mayor’s New Year’s honour list released Tuesday.

“It is my great pleasure to honour these committed and caring Londoners,” Mayor Ed Holder said in a statement. “The work they do in our community is critical. Their efforts help build our city, making it an even better place, every day.”

The annual roll call, which started in 1976, celebrates outstanding achievement across 10 categories. This year’s honourees include:

Rachel Braden and Merel, accessibility 

Merel and his handler Braden are an integral part of the child and witness project team at the London courthouse, where they work with young people testifying at criminal trials in cases often involving physical or sexual abuse or domestic violence.

Ernest Maiorana, age friendly 

Maiorana brings his joy of music to residents of retirement homes and long-term care facilities. Known as DJ Ernie at the McCormick Home, Maiorana’s extensive collection of music brings listeners back to bygone eras while putting smiles on their faces.

Victoria Carter, arts 

As the artistic director and principal at the London Dance Centre, Carter has dedicated her life to training London’s top aspiring dancers. She brings extensive experience from studying ballet, tap and jazz across the globe to the long-standing dance school, where she teaches classes and choreographs performances.

Gabor Sass, environment 

Sass leads by example in demonstrating his belief everyone is responsible for making a more sustainable world. An associate professor of environmental sustainability at Western University, Sass empowers people to produce and process their own food.

Steven Liggett, heritage 

For the past two decades, Liggett has been a member of the London and Middlesex Historical Society, serving as president on multiple occasions.

Jacqueline Thompson, humanitarianism

Thompson has been the driving force behind LifeSpin, a grassroots organization dedicated to helping low-income families, for 25 years. Thompson, who oversees a small staff and nearly 100 volunteers, is an outspoken advocate for systematic change.

Mike Lumley, sports

As the founder of the London Badgers, Lumley has seen more than 100 of his players receive post-secondary scholarships and more than 20 drafted by Major League Baseball teams. Lumley is also the head coach of Western University’s varsity baseball program.

Melissa Hardy-Trevenna, housing

The former director of communications for the London and St. Thomas Association of Realtors and longtime London Housing Advisory Board member has a long history of public service and volunteerism. Hardy-Trevenna has served as the secretary for the London Homeless Coalition and played a major role in promoting its biannual Soup ‘n Bread event.