VIENNA — The Heart of Chesapeake Country Heritage Area hosted its 10th annual awards event on May 28. A crowd of about 50 gathered at the Capt. John Smith Center, near the Nanticoke River in Vienna, to honor people and organizations that make exceptional efforts to protect, sustain, and promote Dorchester’s heritage. Each year, the Heritage Board takes nominations from the public, and a committee of community and board members selects the recipients. These awards are made possible through the support of the Maryland Heritage Area Authority. Individual Achievement: Russ Brinsfield For practicing, promoting, and/or encouraging heritage preservation and awareness that results in public understanding and appreciation. Mr. Brinsfield, mayor of Vienna and co-founder of the Eastern Shore Land Conservancy, has dedicated his career to finding the balance between farming, the environment, development, and preservation. Outstanding Project: Battle of The Ice Mound For a project that preserves the region’s heritage, increases public awareness of our history, and/or enhances the heritage community. Hundreds of people gathered on Taylors Island Feb. 7, 2015 to witness the bicentennial re-enactment of the Battle of the Ice Mound, the last battle of the War of 1812 fought on the Chesapeake. Volunteers from these three organizations planned, organized, and hosted the impressive commemorative event. Organizational Excellence: Richardson Maritime Museum To a group that demonstrates noteworthy achievement in heritage preservation, interpretation, and/or promotion. The museum was founded in 1992 and is dedicated to educational programming designed to illuminate Dorchester County’s influence on Chesapeake Bay maritime history and to pass traditional wooden boat building skills to the next generation. Except for one, part-time employee, the organization is run by dedicated volunteers. Business Partner: Ricky, Rosie and Joan Travers’ Simmons Center Market To a business that embraces and promotes our heritage in a distinguished and sustained way. Simmons Center Market opened in 1937 and is one of the oldest retail and grocery stores on the Eastern Shore. The market has everything from fresh produce to old-fashioned candy and antiques dating back to its earliest days.