Emo council seeking input on top senior

Once again, the Township of Emo is looking to recognize seniors in the community and the countless contributions they make by proclaiming June as Seniors’ Month.
In particular, Emo council is eager to nominate an individual for the 2007 Senior of the Year Award, which was established by the Ontario government to give each municipality the opportunity to honour one outstanding local senior.
But council would like public input on who to nominate for the award.
“There’s a lot of stuff going on that we don’t know anything about—people doing things that we haven’t heard about,” noted Coun. Gerd O’Sullivan.
“It would be nice if the public had a say,” echoed Coun. Ken Fisher.
A letter from Jim Bradley, the minister responsible for seniors, stated “recipients are individuals, who after the age of 65, have enriched the social, cultural, or civic life of the community, without thought of personal or financial gain.”
It added the province’s seniors deserve special recognition for their accomplishments, and that the province is working with the municipalities to ensure they are honoured in a meaningful way.
The selected senior will receive a certificate, provided by the province, signed by Lt.-Gov. James K. Bartleman, Bradley, and the local head of council.
In addition, Emo council often plans a surprise celebration at which to announce the name of the recipient and present them with the award.
Bernice Campbell received the honour last year and was acknowledged at a party in the cafeteria at the Emo Health Centre, where she often volunteers.
Several of Campbell’s friends were on hand to congratulate her on the achievement, and cake and ice cream was served.
Council noted Campbell was well-deserving of the award, especially because of the time she spent volunteering at the manors and hospital—and just helping others in the community.
Those who know of a local senior with similar accomplishments are asked to contact the Emo municipal office before council’s next regular meeting on April 24, at which time a candidate will be selected and submitted to the province.