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Member of Parliament
Newmarket-Aurora 2019-2025 (Retired)

Member of Parliament
Newmarket-Aurora 2019-2025 (Retired)

King Charles III Coronation Medal Recipients

I was proud to join several members of our community at the Newmarket Old Town Hall to honour the recipients of the King Charles III Coronation Medal. Each of them have demonstrated exceptional commitment to our nation and have made their communities better places to live.

Without doubt, the recipients have touched neighbours with kindness, provided support for those in need, inspired others to join a movement, and demonstrated that, regardless of age, we can make a positive difference in the lives of those around us. Their efforts have created a more connected community – a place to feel we belong.

I also want to recognize Erin Cerenzia, Chris Emanuel and Debora Kelly. I truly appreciate your willingness and your expertise in determining who should receive the King Charles III Coronation Medal.  I know the task was challenging given how many applicants were deserving, but I do believe those in the room today being recognized represent our community exceptionally well.

The twenty exceptional recipients, in no particular order, are:

Jackie Playter personifies what it means to be a community builder through her work for the Terry Fox Run, Belinda’s Place, the Newmarket Chamber of Commerce, and the Easter Seals.
Through her leadership in the Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA), Jerisha Grant-Hall has championed culturally relevant mental health support programs, advocated to address food insecurity, and created a vital space for Black Canadians in Newmarket.
Glenn Marais, driven by his love of music, has demonstrated his utmost commitment Canada through his work to enrich the lives of people in our community.
Having left a deep impact on all of his students through his kindness, empathy, and dedication, Geoff Brown is a true example on what it means to be a role model.
York Regional Police (YRP) Superintendent Sarah Riddell has been a strong mental health advocate over the years, leaving a lasting impact on York Region by reshaping how YRP responds to mental health needs.
Dan Banks has been a crucial community support through his work as a coach and advocacy for athletes – including in the Aurora Special Olympics. He also does great work as a Detective for the YRP.
Known for his work with the Southlake Foundation, Habitat for Humanity, Easter Seals, and the Oasis Centre for Bereavement, Brian North has been a passionate, dedicated community member for years.
Michael Braithwaite has worked tirelessly to prevent and end homelessness through his work as CEO for Blue Door and has helped provide over 40,000 nights of safety and 115,000 meals for youth, families, adults, and seniors.
As Chair of the Executive Council for the Welcoming Arms charity, Doug Steele has made great contributions in his community to support low-income and marginalized individuals and families.
Upon his retirement as an educator 22 years ago, Kirby Brock has dedicated his life to serving those in need. He has worked with Doane House Hospice, Inn From the Cold, and the Newmarket Santa Fund.
Hilary Van Welter's volunteer contributions have ranged from mentorship and business evaluation through work to help restore Lake Simcoe, but they all intersect at her desire to help individuals, families, communities to unlock their hidden potential and live their best life.
As Chairman of the Run for Newmarket and former President of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association, Arif Faheem Khan has made significant contributions to our country and raised over $25,000 in the last two years for local charities.
Sajel Bellon is a South Asian psychotherapist, professor and humanitarian who has committed her career to helping the people that help people. While her work is based in Newmarket, she has developed and delivered programs and her talks around the globe.
With over 30 years of volunteer service in Scouts Canada, Robert Cole has been a tireless advocate for the program serving in numerous roles at the grassroots level interacting with youth and adult volunteers.
Peter van Schaik has demonstrated immense dedication and leadership through his grassroots support to build Southlake’s Regional Cancer Centre, his work as an entrepreneur, and his time as the honourary chair for the Happy Hearts campaign in Newmarket.
Lori Hoyes has tirelessly exemplified the spirit of volunteerism through her work with the Army Cadet Support Committee, Royal Canadian Legion Executive, Salvation Army, and local food and toy drives.
Michael Croxon has demonstrated his unwavering commitment to his community through his work at the NewRoads Automotive Group, his support for Southlake Foundation, and his incredible charitable support for mental health, women and girls, and for the arts.
Major Robert Brain has worked with the Canadian Armed Forces Reserves since 1989 and has contributed significantly to those around him through his support for Habitat for Humanity and the John Cooper Learning Centre, which supports children with learning disabilities.
Julianne Goyette has been a long-time advocate for helping anyone in need and will always step up. She is deeply committed to supporting a vibrant and healthy community through her work with the Newmarket Food Pantry, the Easter Seals, and her annual sock campaign for those in need.
Beth Stevenson, founder and producer at Brain Power Studio, has made significant contributions to the arts and the film industry, which has led to the filming of over 80 films – many of which have appeared on cable TV and streaming services.

To all recipients: I hope you will wear your medal with pride. For your kindness, your compassion, your energy, and your love – thank you.

I encourage you to continue making a positive difference, reach out to those in need and through the spirit of your actions let them know they are not alone. Let our communities continue to benefit from your generosity.  

Tony Van Bynen

Member of Parliament Newmarket-Aurora 2019-2025 (Retired)