Smithville’s Justin Potter Library is hosting the 46th annual Older Americans Celebration Wednesday to honor local senior citizens.
Library Director Kathy Hendrixson said the event has transitioned to the county complex over the last several years to accommodate a growing crowd. Hendrixson said the celebration provides resources and activities that promote active lifestyles for residents aged 60 and older.
“I hope they do get out and be and, you know, think more about their health and interacting with other people and it’s just a day they all get together and visit,” Hendrixson said. “They always have a good time, they always sit and eat their lunch together, but just keep active. You know, keep keep going no matter what age you are.”
Hendrixson said various organizations such as NHC, Caris Healthcare, and local emergency departments will be on-site to provide helpful tips regarding senior benefits and scam prevention.
“It’s just a, like I say, a month that we honor our older Americans and all the contributions that they’re making to our communities and have made to our communities,” Hendrixson said. “And I always recognize our veterans because, you know, without our veterans, present and past, we would not have a country.”
Hendrixson said the event features over 80 door prizes donated by local businesses, including items ranging from country hams and homemade quilts to restaurant coupons.
Hendrixson said the entertainment for this year features a historical reenactment of Benjamin Franklin’s life performed by David Mitchell and his wife, Linda. Hendrixson said the presentation aims to educate the audience on the inventions and influence of the founding father through an authentic, custom-made costume and a historically accurate account of his life.
“He goes to schools and gives presentations there and educates our children because, you know, they need to learn history, who was our founding fathers, why is our country what it is and how did we get to where we are,” Hendrixson said. “So I think children need to know that, but our adults maybe forget that a little bit too, how influential he actually was.”
Hendrixson said the library board and local businesses collaborate to provide sack lunches consisting of sandwiches, chips, and fruit for all participants.
“You know, just hanging in there and doing what you can do but just, you know, we’re never too old to learn and to do new things,” Hendrixson said.
The celebration begins Wednesday morning at 9:00 with vendor booths followed by the historical performance and lunch.
