Sen. Farley Announces Gloversville's Audrey Bowman Named An Outstanding Nys Senior

State Senator Hugh T. Farley (R, C - Schenectady) is proud to announce that Audrey Bowman, an ombudsman for the Fulton County Office for the Aging, was given the Outstanding Contributions by a Senior Citizen award at a ceremony held at the Governor's Mansion in Albany on May 10th.

"May is Older Americans Month, a time to honor and celebrate the seniors who helped build our communities and gave so much to future generations," Senator Farley said. "Audrey Bowman is not only a role models for seniors, but also an excellent example for everyone living and working in her community."

While Ms. Bowman was pleasantly surprised and enjoyed her award, she didn't take time off to relax -- she was busy at work the next morning helping host a community breakfast and tour for the Tryon facility in Johnstown where she is a member of the Tryon Adivsory Council. For the last 10 years, she has also been a member of the women's auxiliary of the Sacandaga Elks Lodge and for the last 17 years, an active member of the Office for the Aging's Grandparent Support Program. Ms. Bowman also teaches seniors at Pineview Commons to play cards and enjoys having games with them.

Each Office for the Aging (OFA) throughout New York State nominated two seniors to be honored at the 2006 Senior Citizens' Reception for their dedication and help to seniors. Fulton County's other representative was Bonnie James-Cooper, who is also an ombudsman for her OFA. She is also a volunteer with Mountain Valley Hospice and has worked on behalf of the Wells Nursing Home.

Montgomery County's honorees were Ann DiCaterino and Sylvia Palmieri. Ms. DiCaterino volunteers for the OFA and Community Hospice of Amsterdam. She also works extensively with the meals programs for seniors. Ms. Palmieri donates her time to the local OFA by helping staff with office and clerical work and by answering phones.

Schenectady County's honorees were Henry Jackson and Robert Ludwig. Mr. Jackson is the past Commander and Chaplain for the Disabled American Veterans and a current volunteer at the VA Hospital. He also is extremely active with the Schenectady County Council of Veterans, the Rotterdam Elks, the VFW and the Polish American Veterans. Mr. Ludwig has been a longtime volunteer with Schenectady's United Way, Jewish Community Center, United Jewish Federation and Interfaith Coalition. He has also served as a member of the NYS Alliance for the Arts and Education.