January 13, 2008
NOMINATIONS OPEN FOR ORDER OF BRITISH COLUMBIA

VICTORIA - Nominations for the Order of British Columbia, the Province's highest recognition of excellence and lifetime achievement, are now being accepted by the Honours and Awards Secretariat.

"British Columbia has so many remarkable and talented people. Their continued dedication and contribution to our province has enriched the lives of our citizens," said the Honourable Steven Point, Lieutenant Governor and Chancellor of the Order of British Columbia. "Since the order's inception in 1990, 259 British Columbians have been awarded our province's highest honour. I encourage everyone to consider nominating those citizens who you feel may be deserving of the Order for their significant contribution toward the greater good of our society."

The Order of B.C. will be presented this year by Lt.-Gov. Steven Point to outstanding British Columbians who have excelled in any field of endeavour-such as community leadership, the arts, labour, business, volunteer service, research and education-benefiting the people of the province or elsewhere.

Recipients are chosen by an independent advisory council headed by British Columbia Chief Justice Lance Finch. The deadline for receiving nominations is 5 p.m., March 10. Recipient names will be announced in May, with an official dinner and ceremony of recognition at Government House in June.

Nomination forms and information are available by contacting the Honours and Awards Secretariat in Victoria at (250) 387-1616 or on the Internet at www.protocol.gov.bc.ca . Forms are also available at government agent offices.

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This news release is online at www.protocol.gov.bc.ca.

Media contact:
Jamie Edwardson
Communications
250 356-7373

Karen Felker
Manager Honours and Awards Secretariat
250 387-1616