High-profile list receives Order of Canada

September 03, 2010

OTTAWA — A glittering array of Canada's finest sports heroes, musicians, politicians, actors and business leaders filled Rideau Hall Friday for the Order of Canada ceremony in one of Gov. Gen. Michaelle Jean's last public appearances.

Among the recipients were hockey legend Mario Lemieux, film director Ivan Reitman, singer Burton Cummings, and former politicians Kim Campbell, Gary Filmon, Alexa McDonough and Jean Augustine.

A total of 53 Canadians were honoured at the ceremony, including four Companions, 19 Officers and 30 Members of the Order of Canada.
Jean, whose term as governor general ends on Sept. 30, said that she recalled her first Order of Canada ceremony in November 2005, remembering being "greatly impressed by the accomplishments of so many Canadians" receiving the awards.

She said Canada has been "brilliantly enriched" by the contributions of the honourees who gave unselfishly to the country, pursued their dreams and used their skills to the best of their abilities.

Cummings, frontman for legendary Canadian rockers The Guess Who, said he was honoured to receive the Order of Canada.
"I've had a lifetime of awards, but nothing like this," said Cummings, 62. "This tops them all."

Chantal Petitclerc said receiving the Order of Canada was a different experience than getting a gold medal at the Paralympics.
"But at the same time, it has a meaning that is so much wider and broader and I'm always very impressed and feel very humble to be here today among all these people who really have made a difference," Petitclerc said.

Source:    Tony Lofaro, Ottawa Citizen September 3, 2010