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‘Outstanding Older Citizen of the Year’ Goes to Mr. Jim Mott

There wasn’t an empty seat inside of the Alpena Senior Citizens Center as a celebration of ‘Older Americans Month’ took place Sunday evening.

The national event recognizes older adults for their continued movement within the community. Mayor Matt Waligora declared a proclamation for the May of month to be designated for ‘Older Americans Month.’

Sunday the center presented an award for ‘Outstanding Older Citizen of the Year.’ That lucky winner went to Mr. Jim Mott. Overwhelmed with emotion, Mr. Mott thanked his wife for being his backbone.

“Behind every good man, is a good woman… I’ve been with my wife 50 years, and I’ve know the joy I have had with this marriage,” Mr. Mott said.

This year’s theme was called age out loud, which gives aging a new voice, reflecting on what today’s older adults have to say. Like Mr. Mott, older Americans are working longer, trying new things, and participating in their communities.

Mr. Mott said he was taken by surprise when he won, but said it truly felt good to be recognized.

“Oh I say thank you to everybody. It was so nice, so nice,” he said.

Another person that was recognized was the oldest senior at the center. Mrs. Edna Manning born in 1913 is still enjoying the center at the age of 103. She was presented with a bouquet of flowers and plenty of hugs from family and friends.

Next year the center plans to do awards for both, a female, and male winner.