Mayor Honors Redmond Seniors, Declares May Older Americans Month

Redmond Mayor John Marchione named Howard Larson and Paul Lester as this year's outstanding senior volunteers at Tuesday's City Council meeting. Marchione also proclaimed May as Older American and Senior Recognition Month.

Marchione said Larson has volunteered in the nutrition program at the since 2003. Larson prepares lunch for approximately 35 people each Wednesday and in addition to handling dish-washing duties on Thursdays.

"Howard is a true asset to our nutrition program and our community," Marchione said.

Lester has served on the senior center's advisory committee for two years, Marchione said, and recently took on more of a leadership role. Lester is currently working with other city groups in an effort to improve transportation options for local senior citizens, Marchione said.

"He is an advocate for the Redmond Senior Center, and extremely deserving of this senior volunteer award," Marchione said of Lester.

Marchione also proclaimed May National Preservation Month and the week of May 15 to 21 as Peace Officers' Week, a national commemoration that honors police officers who are killed in the line of duty. The city will also observe Peace Officers' Memorial Day on May 15.

Police Chief Ron Gibson said the recognition is especially meaningful for Redmond officers who have lost friends in other King County agencies.

"The proclamation's important to us, especially in recent years," he said.