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Older Americans Month activities to include annual 90s birthday party
Jackson County will recognize its oldest residents this week during the 24th annual 90s Birthday Party.
The event is planned for Friday, May 12, from 2 until 4 p.m. at the Golden Age Center. This year’s 90s party has been organized by the Jackson County Department on Aging.
The party recognizes local residents who have lived 90 years or longer and will include entertainment by Pelham Thomas.
Jackson County Commissioners’ Chairman Brian McMahan signed a proclamation May 1 honoring the county’s older citizens and naming May “Older Americans Month.” The document recognizes the knowledge the elderly can offer, as well as the needs of that population that younger generations must help meet. Joining McMahan are, from left, Irene Hooper, president of the Golden Age Senior Center board; Helen Bryson, director of the Department on Aging; and Alicia Maney, acting director of the Golden Age Center. – Herald photo by Derek Hodges
According to information on file at the Department on Aging office, Jackson County has more than 140 residents who are age 90 or older, and knows of five who have lived more than a century.
The first party celebrating the county’s nonagenarians was held in 1982, and Helen Bryson of the Department on Aging said she understands the initial gatherings were organized by VOICE volunteers from C.J. Harris (now Harris Regional) Hospital’s Home Health department.
A 1987 clipping from The Sylva Herald indicates that 106 attended that year’s event.
According to Bryson, attendance in recent years has averaged 15 to 20.
“The main thing we want to do is recognize these people and share their life stories,” Bryson said.
The department makes an effort to visit 90-plus residents in nursing homes who are unable to attend the party, she said.
Transportation to and from the party is available for those who need it, Bryson said.
Jackson County residents who will be 90 or older this year and would like to attend the event should call 586-8562 to make a reservation.
Past sponsors include C. J. Harris (now Harris Regional) Hospital Home Health Service, the Jackson County Council on Aging, the Golden Age Senior Center, local nursing homes and local churches.
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