Local names among 26 to be awarded Order of Ontario

CTV News Chief Anchor and Senior Editor Lisa LaFlamme

Twenty-six new appointments to Ontario’s highest civilian honour have been announced, including those of three people with local ties.

Jim Estill, Cheryl Forchuk and Lisa LaFlamme were among the names announced Wednesday as new recipients of the Order of Ontario.

Estill, who lives in Guelph, is the CEO of Danby Appliances. Last year, he announced that he would put $1.5 million toward the private sponsorship of 50 Syrian refugees.

Forchuk lives in Brantford and is best known for her work with Western University’s nursing and psychiatry problems.

LaFlamme, the chief anchor and senior editor of CTV National News, grew up in Kitchener and started her television news career at CTV Kitchener.

Other Order of Ontario recipients announced Wednesday include Dennis O’Connor, who presided over the Walkerton Commission of Inquiry, Cowboy Junkies lead singer Margo Timmins, and track athlete Donovan Bailey.

All newly announced appointments will receive the honour at a special ceremony in Queen’s Park next June.