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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 9, 2006

Governor Taft to Honor 2006 Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame Members

COLUMBUS - Governor Bob Taft, Merle Grace Kearns, Director of the Ohio Department of Aging, and members of the Ohio House and Senate will spotlight the achievements of 16 exceptional seniors being inducted into the Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame during a ceremony at the Statehouse Atrium in Columbus from 4:00 - 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 17.

"Today's honorees are an inspiration for all Ohioans as they actively serve the state through community service, education and medicine," Taft said. "We salute their passion for life and the commitment to making a difference in the lives of others."

"Through their dedication, wisdom and compassion, the 2006 Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame members leave their mark on Ohio," said Kearns. "They exemplify positive aging and positive living."

2006 Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame Inductees:

• Hugh Coffman (Marietta)
• Creola C. Dickey (Columbus)
• Anthony M. "Tony" Feldes (Youngstown)
• Carolyn A. Haynali (Berlin Center)
• Troy Lee James (Beachwood)
• Mary Keller (Defiance)
• Beulah McFarland (Carrollton)
• Myrtle Musch (Hamilton) - posthumous
• Robert Netzley (Laura)
• Ralph & Myrtle Peters (Akron)
• Jean Pieper (Georgetown)
• Jean E. Plack (Galion)
• Bill Richards (Newark)
• George Riser (Lyndhurst)
• Mardo Williams (Columbus) - posthumous

Since 1977, more than 300 individuals have been inducted into the Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame. Native-born Ohioans or state residents for at least 10 years are nominated by individuals or organizations based on service to others and achievements after age 60 and for lifetime achievements that represent positive aging. Bios and photos of the 2006 honorees will be available May 15, on the Department of Aging's Web site at www.goldenbuckeye.com/hof/

Nine Elder Caregivers of the Year will be honored at the event. They represent thousands of family caregivers in Ohio. Novartis celebrates Ohio's seniors as sponsor of the event.