Civic Awards

Derek was recognized for his many years of advocating for the accessibility needs of residents in all parts of the city, particularly in Glenayre where he has helped to bring about a number of improvements – such as curb letdowns, sidewalk installations, and street lighting – that have made the neighbourhood more walkable and safe. From 2014 to 2020, Wilson organized and delivered the Handy Helper minor home repair program for clients of the United Way’s Better at Home program, offered through SHARE Family and Community Services. Home repairs completed through this program included the installation of grab bars, hand-held shower heads, and single-handle faucets in bathrooms and kitchens to assist clients with disabilities.

Christine Scott - 2019

Christine Scott, CEO of Kinsight, was recognized for her efforts to leverage Kinsight’s real estate assets and forge new and innovative partnerships with other non-profits, private developers, and municipalities to create shared space in the community where everyone is welcome. A recent example is a partnership between Catalyst Community Developments Society, Inlet United Church, Kinsight, SHARE Family and Community Services, and BC Housing to create a mixed-use project that will include housing options for people with developmental disabilities. There will also be space for a children’s centre that will support families and deliver early intervention programs for children and youth who have, or are at risk of having, developmental delays or disabilities. Scott is known as a collaborative leader who works to create opportunities for neighbours and organizations to welcome all people.

Mossom Creek Hatchery – 2017

In 2017, the Mossom Creek Hatchery received the Accessibility Award for creating and maintaining an accessible space. Mossom Creek Hatchery, managed by the Burrard Inlet Marine Enhancement Society, was recognized for its new, barrier-free facility, which opened in 2015. The roadway up to the clubhouse and the washroom are now fully accessible for people who use wheelchairs.

Gabi and Jules Handmade Pies - 2016

Gabi and Jules Handmade Pies received the Accessibility Award in 2016 for creating and maintaining an inclusive work environment. Individuals with autism can gain skills and work experience while being part of a team.

Port Moody Auto and Air - 2015

Port Moody Auto and Air received the Accessibility Award in 2015 for their efforts in community integration and the removal of physical barriers. Specifically they provide excellent customer services for clients with physical disabilities.

Port Moody Station Museum - 2014

The Port Moody Station Museum received the Accessibility Award in 2014 for its efforts to make the facility accessible to all. They removed physical barriers, provided signage and listening stations that accommodate both hearing impaired and visually impaired visitors, offered volunteer opportunities for members of the community with mental health challenges and limited mobility.

Port Moody Arts Centre – 2012

The Port Moody Arts Centre received the Accessibility Award in 2012 for their efforts to promote accessibility. They use an adaptive approach to provide opportunities for persons with disabilities to explore their creativity and develop interpersonal skills in a safe and inclusive environment. For example, they offer a clay workshop for autistic youth and art and drama camps for children with mental health issues, brain injuries, and cognitive disabilities.

The Home Team for the Beaudoin Residence – 2012

The Home Team, a non-profit community outreach of the Cornerstone Seventh Day Adventist Church, received the Accessibility Award in 2012 in for their renovation and reconstruction of Chantal Beaudoin's house. She was left with a physical disability following an accident in 2004. The renovations make her house 100% accessible.

Beadworks – 2009

Beadworks, formerly located in Newport Village, received the Accessibility Award in 2009 for helping break down barriers for people with disabilities. They have hired staff with developmental disabilities and promoted a positive and inclusive work environment.

Community Integration Services Society – 2008

The Community Integration Services Society received the Accessibility Award in 2008 for their program using the Kyle Centre Kitchen. This program provides individuals with developmental disabilities an opportunity to learn valuable food preparation and administrative skills through participation.

Tracey Bates – 2007

Tracey Bates, owner of Eden West Fine Foods and Gifts, received the Accessibility Award in 2007 for making her store wheelchair accessible.

Debbie Richardson – 2006

Debbie Richardson received the Accessibility Award in 2006 for her work in lobbying to make the washrooms accessible in Rocky Point Park. She also served on the Community Care Committee for a number of years.

St. John the Apostle Anglican Church – 2005

St. John Apostle Anglican Church received the inaugural Accessibility Award in 2005 for their commitment to improving the accessibility of the heritage building.

Mike Arseneault was recognized for his contributions to the arts and business community, and for his incredible leadership and commitment to community building. He is the founder of Ioco Players Port Moody Theatre Arts, which presented several performances and table readings in 2022. Arseneault also contributes to the community through the POMO Foodies Facebook group and his quarterly newsletter Ioco News. He has been described as a brand builder, strategist, designer, storyteller, published author, theatre producer, director, performer, connector, and cultural curator. Although Arseneault has only been a Port Moody resident for a short time, he is known for his passion, energy, and commitment to building an exciting, cohesive, and supportive community.

Tracey Schaeffer was honoured for being the passionate visionary behind the 2022 Frantic Breeze Fast Film Competition. The competition had teams of filmmakers write, film, and edit a short film in just 72 hours. In taking on the challenge of organizing this successful event, Schaeffer presented a three-day youth film workshop in partnership with the Port Moody Public Library, hired support staff, arranged for promotional materials, attended film-related events to promote this new event, secured sponsorship, and managed the event budget. Schaeffer has been described as an enthusiastic planner who brought joy to the process of organizing Frantic Breeze, which she saw as both a special arts event for the community and a way to promote the city itself.

The Blue Mountain Quilters’ Guild was recognized for their work in giving back to the community through donations, leadership, and teaching skills, and for bringing Port Moody to the forefront of the fibre art world. A goal of the Blue Mountain Quilters’ Guild is to provide charities with as many donated quilts as they have members. In 2021, approximately 142 quilts were donated, as there are currently 142 members, including approximately 80 from Port Moody. Although the Guild is a Tri-Cities group, many of their quilts go to residents and organizations in Port Moody, such as Crossroads Hospice Society and the Port Moody Royal Canadian Legion. The Guild also donates to regional organizations and institutions such as the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Royal Columbian Hospital and Tri-Cities schools. The Guild also participates at the Ioco Ghost Town Days Festival by having a booth, displaying quilts, and teaching adults and children the quilting process. 

Brenda was honoured for her vision for, and work on, the Queens Street Plaza Placemaking Project. Queens Street Plaza was an underused area of the city and her vision was to make it a flexible space where people could gather to talk, read, paint, and attend special events. Millar thought the Plaza needed a central art piece and conceived the idea of the canoe planter that is now in place. The canoe was painted by an Indigenous artist and is used to hold flowers that add colour to the Plaza. Millar ensured the community had input and came together to bring the project to life. She also contributed items to fill toy boxes so that children can have a great experience at the Plaza.

Val Simons - 2019

Val Simons was recognized for her many contributions and accomplishments as president of the Port Moody Arts Centre Society from June 2015 to May 2019. Simons led a campaign to double the Society’s endowment funds and successfully renegotiated a five-year operating agreement with the City of Port Moody. She spearheaded a community art project, titled the Unity Project, to celebrate Canada’s 150th birthday in 2017, and helped bring the project back in 2018 for Port Moody’s second annual Car-Free Day. Simons has also served terms as a director-at-large for the Port Moody Arts Centre Society and as a member and president of the Blackberry Artists Society.

Jim Millar and Markus Fahrner – 2018

Jim Millar and Markus Fahrner received the Arts Award in 2018 for their commitment to fostering the arts in Port Moody through their many collaborative exhibits, as well as their promotion of the Port Moody Station Museum as an integral part of the City of the Arts. One of their projects was an exhibit titled “As He Saw It,” a collection of wartime sketches by the renowned German typographer Rudolph Koch. Millar is a role model who is dedicated to the Port Moody Station Museum and the community as a whole. Fahrner is a graphic designer who has exhibited his work in Port Moody and Germany.

Dr. Hilary Letwin – 2017

Dr. Hilary Letwin received the Arts Award in 2017 for her work in curating the “Meeting the Moodys” exhibit on display at the Port Moody Station Museum. This exhibit, which included personal letters and photographs, provided an opportunity for visitors to learn about Colonel Richard Clement Moody, who was the first lieutenant governor of the Colony of British Columbia, and his wife, Mary Moody. The Port Moody Heritage Society contracted Letwin to provide curatorial services for the exhibit, which involved selecting the materials to be displayed and preparing the accompanying educational panels.

Gallery Bistro – 2016

Gallery Bistro received the Arts Award in 2016 for providing a presentation venue and meeting space where artists can share their talents and exchange ideas. The bistro has become an artistic and cultural hub in the city. They host musical jam sessions, concert performances, workshops, and art exhibits, as well as regular meetings for a variety of local groups.

Stirling Ward - 2015

Stirling Ward received the Arts Award in 2015 for his work as an internationally renowned photographer. He regularly donates his time, talent, professional services, and equipment to local events and has participated in on a number of local boards and committees.

Port Moody Film Society – 2014

The Port Moody Film Society received the Arts Award in 2014 for fostering filmmaking through a monthly film night, mini-festivals, and indoor and outdoor film screenings every summer. They also donate thousands of dollars of film equipment to the City and operate the Bistro concession on a volunteer basis.

Ann Kitching – 2013

Ann Kitching received the Arts Award in 2013 for her contributions to collaboration and art in the community. She spear-headed the Centennial Wall Hanging that features contributions from over 350 community participants. She has also served as the president of the Port Moody Arts Centre Society, organized the Wearable Art Awards, and was a member of the City's Arts and Culture Task Force and Arts and Culture Committee.

Susan Ius and Richard Dixon – 2012

Susan Ius and Richard Dixon received the Arts Award in 2012 for their work in planning the first Port Moody Youth Arts festival. They created a nurturing environment where young people in our community were able to gain valuable experience in their chosen artistic field.

Helen Daniels - 2011

Helen Daniels received the Arts Award in 2011 for her work with ArtsConnect. Through this project, she creates diverse online resources and a welcoming space for artists. Signature ArtsConnect events like the ArtWalk, ArtistCircle, Golden Brush, and Quick Flick Challenge all benefit from her vision and expertise.

Dan Mattinson – 2010

Dan Mattinson received the Arts Award in 2010 for his work as the Executive Director of the Coastal Sound Music Academy (CSMA). He oversees the budget, programming, fundraising, registration and travel for the group.

George Balzer – 2009

George Balzer received the Arts Award in 2009 for his work with the PCT Summer Sunday Concerts. These free concerts feature local bans and Rocky Point Park every weekend in July and August.

Dave Bennie was honoured for his many years of volunteer work stewarding Noons Creek and educating our community and young people. Bennie is currently the vice-president of the Port Moody Ecological Society, a local stewardship group that operates Noons Creek Hatchery, where he spends countless hours volunteering. He has an in-depth understanding of salmon life cycles, streams, and local history, which he shares through the many outreach events that he is involved with as director of special events and school programs. The annual Fingerling Festival coincides with the release of young salmon, and Bennie has helped grow this event into a popular environmental fair that attracts thousands of participants across Metro Vancouver. He has also been a key supporter of Indigenous collaboration at the hatchery, including the In the Presence of Ancestors project led by local First Nation artists and Knowledge Keepers. 

Aniela, a 13-year-old student, was honoured for inspiring others through her actions and for raising awareness of important environmental issues. She has been an outstanding volunteer at Mossom Creek Hatchery since she was 10, taking a leadership role in water quality testing, fish husbandry, and visitor orientation. Guzikowski is also an accomplished public speaker who brought a cigarette butt awareness campaign to three municipal councils when she was 11. She also raised awareness of the dangers of cigarette butts through broadcast media and by speaking at large public events including TEDx. At community events, Guzikowski has distributed pocket ashtrays which she was able to fund with a grant from the City.

Carla Scott was recognized for working tirelessly throughout the Tri-Cities to protect bears and educate area residents about the need for improved management of wildlife attractants. She founded the “Port Moody, Tri-Cities Bear Aware” Facebook group, which shares information and tips on how to manage wildlife attractants and help improve the situation for bears in our neighborhoods. Focusing on the proper management of garbage and green waste carts, Scott has distributed countless information pamphlets and shared her knowledge with residents who live in areas with frequent bear activity. She has also volunteered with the Harvest Fruit Rescue group, which helps to reduce attractants by harvesting fruit from trees in our community. This year the group harvested 600 pounds of fruit which went to the Critter Care Wildlife Society. 

Kevin Ryan - 2019

Kevin Ryan, president and operations manager for the Burrard Inlet Marine Enhancement Society, was recognized for his accomplishments related to watershed protection and salmonid enhancement. Ryan has worked to build a solid partnership between the Mossom Creek and Noons Creek hatcheries for the benefit of both organizations. He has brought together municipal, provincial, and federal government representatives and users of Eagle Mountain trails (mountain bike, motorbike, and 4x4 groups) to discuss the impact of unregulated trail use on the environment. Results of these discussions include increased awareness and co-operation by trail users, improved signage on Eagle Mountain, and the closure of problematic trails. Ryan has also been a key participant in the formation of a Salmon in the City program to improve coho-rearing and chum-spawning habitat. This program includes removing invasive plant species and replacing with native vegetation that contributes to watershed health.

Judy Taylor-Atkinson and Jim Atkinson – 2018

Judy Taylor-Atkinson and Jim Atkinson received the Environmental Award in 2018 for their contribution to the stewardship and protection of wildlife in Port Moody, including the beaver family that arrived in the Klahanie Community in 2016, and the Great Blue Heron colony that has taken up residence along the Shoreline Trail. The Atkinsons' advocacy for the beavers contributed to Council's direction to develop a Beaver Management Plan for Port Moody that will prioritize co-existence with beavers whenever possible. The Atkinsons attend numerous stewardship and community outreach events every year, advocating for wildlife protection and restoration within our natural landscape.

Kiyoshi Takahashi – 2017

Kiyoshi Takahashi received the Environmental Award in 2017 for his efforts to protect local bat, purple martin, and owl populations in Port Moody and the Tri-Cities area. As a nationally-recognized bat expert, Takahashi's accomplishments include design, construction, and installation of bat boxes and the provision of technical advice for bat conservation and relocation. He was instrumental in the formation of the Burke Mountain Naturalists Bat Team, which conducts citizen-science-based programs to promote bat conservation through public awareness and education. Takahashi also worked with the Coast Guard to ensure new nest boxes for purple martins were installed during the replacement of old pilings in the Port Moody Arm of Burrard Inlet. Takahashi's restoration efforts contributed to the shift in provincial status of the purple martin from threatened to vulnerable.

Neil Laffra – 2016

Neil Laffra received the Environmental Award in 2016 for his volunteer contribution to the Mossom Creek Hatchery. In his role, he supports environmental education and outreach activities, manages the hatchery operations, and trains new volunteers. He is also a member of the Board of Directors of the Burrard Inlet Marine Enhancement Society, which manages the Mossom Creek Hatchery.

Dr. Elaine Golds – 2015

Dr. Elaine Golds received the Environmental Award in 2015. She is a well-known environmental educator, naturalist, and preservationist who has worked for decades to protect and restore the natural environment in Port Moody and the surrounding region. Her work includes conducting biological inventories and developing educational tours and materials, building community awareness, and providing input to numerous community plans, policies, and practices.

The Seaview Community Elementary School and Seaview Gardeners – 2014

Seaview Community Elementary School and Seaview Gardens received the Environmental Award in 2014 for their work in planting learning gardens at the school. These gardens provide an opportunity for students to learn about growing produce, re-establish connections with food supply, and foster a sense of community ownership and stewardship. They also created a community garden that allows families to participate and grow their own food.

Saskia Vaisey – 2013

Saskia Vaisey received the Environmental Award in 2013 for her working in raising awareness around environmental issues and climate change. She completed a marathon in Botswana to raise awareness about the impact of water shortages. She also cycled to Inuvik in order to raise awareness around climate change and to promote connections between youth.

Rod MacVicar – 2012

Rod MacVicar received the Environmental Award in 2012 for his work in starting the Mossom Creek Hatchery in 1976. He is an outstanding environmental educator and continues to volunteer at the hatchery. He is also a Director of the Reed Point Marine Education Centre and Pacific Wildlife Foundation.

Bill Nicol – 2011

Bill Nicol received the Environmental Award in 2011 for his work as a long-standing volunteer with the Port Moody Ecological Society. He's collected over 60,000 aluminum cans through litter pickup and donations. He also began a bursary program for volunteers at the Mossom Creek Hatchery who are studying earth and ocean sciences at the University of British Columbia.

John Dunn – 2010

John Dunn received the Environmental Award in 2010 for his work as a volunteer at the Mossom Creek Hatchery since 1991. He helped construct the hatchery and ensures its ongoing operation through regular maintenance work.

Ruth Foster – 2009

Ruth Foster received the Environmental Award in 2009 for her work removing invasive plants and restoring natural habitat throughout Port Moody and our parks. She also is a founder of Mossom Creek Hatchery

Brianne Egeto was recognized for her pivotal role in organizing events and supporting heritage in the community. In the past decade, Egeto has supported programs for children, summer student training, and First Nations awareness through exhibits at the Port Moody Station Museum. She creates collections and displays at the museum, volunteers to digitize archival materials, and creates and updates programs for the community (e.g. Family Day events and programs for a variety of different audiences such as moms and tots or people who are learning English as a second language). Egeto is highly involved with the annual Ioco Ghost Town Day Festival and has recently helped to coordinate the Ioco Legacy project and took part in creating an Ioco Memories digital book and signage throughout the Ioco Townsite.

Jennifer Duncan and John Duncan were honoured for their efforts to restore a local heritage building. Since purchasing the Barnum Residence at 2625 St. George Street in 2003, the Duncans have spent countless hours restoring it. The house was built circa 1903-1904 by William Ernest Barnum, a lumber mill worker. Barnum lived in the residence with his wife and four children until 1924. Located in the heart of Moody Centre, the Barnum Residence was formally recognized by the City and placed on the Heritage Register in 2006, and listed on the Canadian Register in 2009.

The McLellan family - 2020

The McLellan family was recognized for their efforts to support the Port Moody Heritage Society and the Port Moody Station Museum. The contributions of Kelly, Jeff, Emily, and Madison McLellan include initiating and fundraising for Christmas Lights at the Museum, fundraising for Ioco Ghost Town Day and, most recently during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading online Easter and Mother’s Day celebrations. The McLellan family has dedicated countless hours to the preservation and celebration of Port Moody’s heritage.

Tasha Faye Evans - 2019

Tasha Faye Evans was recognized for her contributions to the community in building and leading educational presentations and programs on Indigenous culture. In 2017 and 2018, Evans led the Welcome Post Project, a series of events that celebrated Coast Salish history and culture through art, song, and storytelling. In 2019, she continued her work by leading the Stakw: Water is Life Project, which celebrated water’s significance in Coast Salish culture and the connection water has to our community and way of life. Evans has also been instrumental in organizing National Indigenous People’s Day celebrations in Port Moody. Through her work, Evans has brought together Indigenous and non-Indigenous people from Port Moody and beyond to share a unique perspective on local history.

Evergreen Line Public Art Liaison Committee – 2018

The Evergreen Line Public Art Liaison Committee received the Heritage Award in 2018 for their incorporation of art into the new Evergreen Line stations. The committee, made up of Helen Daniels, Susan Ius, Gerry Nuttall, Judy Stanley, and Stirling Ward, worked tirelessly with the Evergreen Rapid Transit Project Team to incorporate art into the new stations. When the Evergreen Extension opened in 2016, a total of seven public art pieces had been installed for all to enjoy.

Robert Simons – 2017

Robert Simons received the Heritage Award in 2017 for his contributions to the community as a heritage advocate. As president for four years and as past president, Simons has guided the long-term vision of the Port Moody Heritage Society. He has volunteered countless hours at heritage events, and worked tirelessly to encourage heritage conservation in the city. Simons has played a lead role in the preservation of the Ioco Heritage Conservation Area and the expansion of the Ioco Ghost Town Day Festival.

Golden Spike Can Can Dancers – 2016

The Golden Spike Can Can Dancers received the Heritage Award in 2016 for their advocacy of heritage conservation. They are a non-profit group with more than 30 members, who volunteer their time to perform for a variety of different events and organizations.

The “Trench Squad” – 2015

The “Trench Squad” (Guy Black Markus Fahrner, Alan Fox, John Goheen, Jim Millar, Cary Price, and Sonny Son) received the Heritage Award in 2015 for creating the McKnight Centennial WWI Trench. This exhibit, located at the Port Moody Station Museum, promotes an important part of Canadian history and pays tribute to former city engineer and resident, Augustus McKnight.

David Spence – 2014

David Spence received the Heritage Award in 2014 for his dedication to heritage advocacy. He recently created outstanding representation when he played Colonel Richard Clement Moody to celebrate the City's centennial year.

Jim Millar – 2013

Jim Millar received the Heritage Award in 2013 for his outstanding heritage advocacy in each centennial celebration event. During the event, he took photographs, organized Heritage Week, and developed the Heritage House Tour. He also Recreated the City's 1946 May Day float for the Centennial Parade. Jim was also a key contributor to the Heritage Society's book “Tracks in Time: Port Moody's First 100 Years.”

Fred Soofi – 2012

Fred Soofi received the Heritage Award in 2012 for the restoration of the Judd and Alexander residences. Both heritage buildings were revitalized using authentic building styles and materials, representing sustainable re-use of existing building and complement the heritage character of Moody Centre.

Port Moody Heritage Society and Mary Ann Cooper – 2011

The Port Moody Heritage Society and Mary Ann Cooper received the Heritage Award in 2011 for their heritage advocacy through the Ioca Ghost Town Days. This is a free community event that promotes the city's heritage. It also celebrates the establishment of a Heritage Conservation Area within the former Ioco Townsite.

Glynn Williams-Jones and Isabelle Lepine – 2010

Glynn and Isabelle received the Heritage Award in 2010 for the revitalization of their heritage home at 2710 Henry Street. The home was originally built in 1911 by Charles and Grace Smith. Glynn and Isabelle's efforts help to preserve the local culture and pay tribute to the people that built our community.

Allan and Sarah Wiser – 2009

Sara and Allan Wiser received the Heritage Award in 2009 for their sensitive revitalization of their heritage home. They transformed their 1920s era home by adding a second storey addition with two peaked dormers and a columned from porch in craftsman style.

Brenda and Jim Millar – 2008

Brenda and Jim Millar received the Heritage Award in 2008 for their efforts in heritage advocacy.

Fred Soofi and Mary Anne Cooper – 2007

Fred Soofi received the Heritage Award in 2007 for the heritage restoration of the Appleyard Residence.

Mary Anne Cooper also received the Heritage Award in 2007 for her efforts in heritage advocacy.

Heritage Award recipients - 2006

In 2006, we awarded three Heritage Awards to the following individuals and groups:

• Ioca United Church (heritage advocacy)
• Al and Nellie Sholund (heritage advocacy)
• Randy and Brenda Finmore and Cynthia Gillander (heritage building revitalization)

Port Moody Station Museum – 2005

The Port Moody Station Museum received the Heritage Award in 2005 for the creation of the Heritage Tour and Inlet Trail Brochure.

Heritage Award recipients – 2004

In 2004, we distributed three Heritage Awards to the following individuals an organizations:

• Port Moody Heritage Society (heritage conservation advocacy)
• Oliver Schneider (community revitalisation)
• Jan and Jen Voss (heritage building restoration)