The County of Lambton wants to hear about the people who work to preserve and promote its rich heritage, as it marks its 175th anniversary.
Nominations are now being accepted for the "Heritage Champions Awards."
The awards honor outstanding individuals or organizations from each of the county's eleven municipalities.
They spotlight those dedicated to various aspects of community heritage, including showcasing Lambton County's archaeological, built, cultural, and natural heritage.
Cultural Services General Manager Andrew Meyer said the timing is right.
"We thought it was an appropriate time to recognize all of the work that volunteers do across the county to support the preservation and the celebration of our rich heritage," said Meyer. "There are many museums, heritage organizations, historical societies and committees and a lot of that work was accomplished on the backs of volunteers."
Meyer said they want to make sure everyone is represented.
"We haven't set a limit on the recognition, but we're hopeful that we get a strong response from the community, and we'll gauge how we recognize those individuals once we get the nominations in," said Meyer.
Meyer said the county will reach its 175th anniversary milestone at the June council session.
"That's when we're going to have sort of a celebration to recognize the anniversary, and that really starts the 175th year for the County of Lambton as an incorporated body," he said. "Our plan is to have a celebration at the June council session and recognize these individuals there. Depending on the response, we might do something bigger than that depending on how many nominations we receive."
Those making nominations are asked to write a summary of 250 words or fewer, detailing the nominee's contributions and up to five supporting documents, such as photographs or newspaper articles.
Nominees must consent to their nomination.
You can go to www.lambtonmuseums.ca/heritagechampion to make a submission.
The deadline is Friday, March 15, 2024, at 4:00 p.m.