The Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging recently recognized nine county honorees during its Outstanding Senior Citizen Awards ceremony in Ontario, celebrating older adults whose volunteerism, leadership and community service have made a lasting difference across north central Ohio.
About 100 people attended the event, according to a community announcement. The Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging has presented the awards since 1976 to highlight older adults who contribute to their communities and promote a positive image of aging.
The awards honor residents from the agency's nine-county service area, which includes Ashland, Crawford, Huron, Knox, Marion, Morrow, Richland, Seneca and Wyandot counties.
The Outstanding Senior Citizen Award recipients were:
Ashland County: Charles and Melody Barnes
Crawford County: Mohsen "Mo" Ressallat
Huron County: Herschel and Ruth Honeycutt
Knox County: Margaret "Peggy" Dunn
Morrow County: Chris and Hyla Skudder
Richland County: Sidney "Sid" Hall and Nancy Hall, posthumously
Wyandot County: Bonnie L. Conley
According to the announcement, individuals or organizations involved with seniors nominate candidates for the awards. The Area Agency on Aging selects recipients based on the impact of their accomplishments and contributions within their communities.
"Each year, we are honored to recognize older adults who have generously shared their time, talents, and dedication to strengthen their communities," Area Agency on Aging CEO Duana Patton said. "These honorees are inspiring examples of the many ways older adults continue to lead, serve, and positively impact the lives of those around them."
Family members, friends and elected officials from communities throughout the service area also attended the ceremony.
Proclamations honoring the recipients were presented by elected officials, including a senator and representatives, mayors and county commissioners.
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This article originally appeared on Mansfield News Journal: Area Agency on Aging honors outstanding senior citizens