Several First Nations, a group involved with the preservation of a historic house, a Delta man who started a unique Facebook page as well as a local resident who has been painstakingly restoring old photographs are this year's recipients of Delta's heritage awards.
Every February, through its heritage advisory commission, Delta marks Heritage Week (Feb. 15 to 21) by presenting its Heritage Award of Merit and Friends of Heritage Awards.
The commission accepts nominations throughout the year for awards to be presented the following year.
The Heritage Award of Merit is conferred to projects, individuals or groups for their contribution in conserving a valuable part of Delta's history. Awards may be granted to projects in the area of preservation, restoration, rehabilitation or adaptive re-use and may be considered for their exterior or interior characteristics.
At Delta council's regular meeting on Monday, Mayor Lois Jackson will present the 2016 Heritage Award of Merit to seven First Nations - Tsawwassen First Nation, Musqueam First Nation, Katzie First Nation, Kwantlen First Nation,
Tsleil-Waututh Nation, Semiahmoo First Nation and the Kwikwetlem First Nation - that have worked closely with the provincial government to create a "recognition area" at the foot of the Alex Fraser Bridge.
Some of the oldest archaeological finds, representing First Nations activity estimated to be 9,500 years old, have been discovered there.
Friends of Heritage Awards are conferred to a project, individual or group that promotes heritage conservation and awareness in the areas of education, publication or advocacy.
Recipients of a Friends of Heritage Award include the Boundary Bay Park Association, formerly the Cammidge House Committee, for its work promoting heritage through activities at the historic home in Boundary Bay Regional Park.
Rick Pelletier will receive an award for his heritage restorations and installations at buildings at Hawthorne Park, while Gary Cullen will be recognized for promoting interest and awareness of local heritage through his Facebook group called Tsawwassen Old Photos.
The mayor will also announce the recipient of a Heritage Award Scholarship.
