Oakville residents recognized for their dedication to preserving local heritage

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Town Council members welcomed Oakville’s Ontario Heritage Trust award recipients at a ceremony held at Town Hall last night. Eight individuals were recognized in six categories for their valuable contribution to preserving local heritage.

“Council’s commitment to the preservation of Oakville’s heritage is reflected by the dedication of our outstanding award recipients,” Mayor Rob Burton said.

Recognized by the Ontario Heritage Trust this year are:

Debbie Guerin and Ursula Greer, Heritage Community Recognition – Natural Heritage Award.

Ms. Guerin and Ms. Greer are inspirational primary school teachers recognized for their dedication to promoting environmental stewardship within the classroom and in the schoolyard.

George Chisholm, Heritage Community Recognition – Cultural Heritage Award.

Mr. Chisholm has been President of the Oakville Historical Society for fifteen years. His knowledge of history and his admiration for the buildings and characters that shaped the town’s early days has earned him the respect of fellow cultural historians.

Andrea Stewart, Heritage Community Recognition – Built Heritage Award.

Ms. Stewart has been a member of the Oakville Historical Society for over 10 years and served on its Board of Directors for six years. Her interest in built heritage extends to her involvement in the popular Doors Open Oakville event.

Clare Fiala and Brayden Ross, Young Heritage Leaders – Built Heritage Award.

These two dedicated students are recognized for their volunteer work with the Oakville Historical Society at Merrick Thomas House. They have participated in the smooth operations of the house and are always eager to interact with visitors to share their interest and knowledge.

Councillor Cathy Duddeck, award recipients Emma Mogus and Julia Mogus, and Councillor Pam Damoff; Photo Credit: Town of Oakville

Julia Mogus, Young Heritage Leaders – Cultural Heritage Award.

Ms. Mogus is a tireless advocate of cultural heritage in the Oakville community. She is a member of the Volunteer Halton Youth Advisory Committee and is a Steering Committee Member of the Community Youth in Action Network. Ms. Mogus, together with her sister Emma, founded Books with No Bounds to improve literacy skills of aboriginal children and youth.

Emma Mogus, Young Heritage Leaders – Natural Heritage Award.

As a member of the youth leadership group Eco-Mentors, Ms. Mogus has facilitated workshops on the environment and has volunteered with Bronte Creek Provincial Park as a Junior Naturalist. Ms. Mogus and her sister Julia, founded Books with No Bounds.

The town also announced at the award ceremonies a new Heritage Grant Program to assist heritage property owners with the cost of restoring and maintaining their properties. The program is a three-year pilot plan which could cover up to $15,000 of approved restoration projects. For more information visit oakville.ca.