The Heritage Advisory Committee took the microphone during the recent Moose Jaw & District Chamber of Commerce luncheon to recognize the many efforts around the city to preserve the rich heritage of Moose Jaw.
Six awards were presented this year, each one to a person or organization that has made significant contributions in preserving and promoting the built heritage of the city.
Heritage Advisory Committee members Scott Hellings and councillor Crystal Froese made the presentations.
A Heritage Craftspeople or Tradespeople Award was presented to Steady Metalworks for their work on Team Mac, replacing Mac the Moose’s antlers this fall, and their help in revitalizing the Capitol Theatre’s iconic marquee.
John and Donna Bye were given a Restoration Award, for the extensive restoration work they completed on a home on Coteau Street East.
Four awards for Heritage Advocacy and Education were also given, for continued work in sharing the city’s heritage.
Percy Hill received this award, for his continued efforts in promoting the natural heritage of Moose Jaw and his extensive knowledge of the Moose Jaw River Valley.
Tourism Moose Jaw was given an award as well, for their ongoing cemetery tour and it's educational foundation.
The Moose Jaw Dayz Facebook group received an award for the page’s ongoing role as a place to share photos and stories about Moose Jaw’s history, making it a useful resource.
The organizers of BisonFest also received a Heritage Advocacy and Education Award, as the event functions as both a celebration of the cultures that relied on the buffalo and an interactive pop-up museum about living on the Northern Plains.
“It was an honour to be recognized that the amount of work that goes into it and the amount of work that the other organizers have put into it [is appreciated],” said Rich Pickering, the BisonFest committee member who accepted the award.
The Heritage Advisory Committee presents awards each year and accepts nominations from the public for consideration.
