Remarkable Seniors Recognized

Eight remarkable people are being recognized for their significant contributions to their communities and their work with seniors.

Seven seniors will be recognized by their peers on Friday, June 10, at the 16th Annual 50+ Expo.

"The government of Nova Scotia congratulates the recipients of this year's Remarkable Senior Awards for their commitment and dedication to their communities," said Angus MacIsaac, chair of the Senior Citizens' Secretariat. "Their generosity and selflessness is truly remarkable."

Remarkable Senior Award winners are nominated by senior's councils across Nova Scotia and chosen by a committee. Recipients are selected under three categories: community service, leadership and volunteerism.

This year's awards recipients are:

Community Service

• Naomi Judah, Halifax
• Freda Theakston, Greenfield, Kings Co.

Leadership

• Omer Blinn, Comeauville, Digby Co.
• Alta and Murray Covert, Annapolis Royal, Annapolis Co.

Volunteerism

• Percy Bowser, Halifax
• Georgina Patriquin, Wentworth, Cumberland Co.

Mr. MacIsaac also acknowledged Valerie White, executive director of the Senior Citizens' Secretariat, for her recent award. Ms. White received a 2005 Award of Recognition from the Gerontology Association of Nova Scotia, for her 25 years of professional and personal service to Nova Scotia seniors.

Nila Ipson, president of the association presented the award at a ceremony on April 30. "With her professionalism, leadership abilities, dedication and optimistic attitude, Valerie has been a positive role model for many and it is what we believe sets her apart," said Ms. Ipson. "The secretariat is not a nine to five job for her, but rather the vehicle through which she can achieve both personal and professional goals -- namely, to enhance the lives of older Nova Scotians."

The 50+ Expo is a non-profit event planned and organized by a volunteer committee of seniors. The event is sponsored by The Chronicle Herald, Doctors Nova Scotia and Tour Tech East.

The 50+ Expo will run from 9 a.m to 6 p.m on Friday, June 10 and Saturday, June 11 at Exhibition Park, Halifax. Tickets are $5 per day and available at the door. The event is a project of the Senior Citizens' Secretariat and leads up to Seniors' Week which takes place June 14-20.

For more information about the 50+ Expo, contact the Senior Citizens' Secretariat information line at 902-424-0065 or toll free at 1-800-670-0065.