Three older adults were honored on Seniors' Day at the Michigan State Fair in Detroit. They received 2008 Senior Citizen of the Year Awards for their generosity and community service.

The annual awards are sponsored by the Michigan Commission and Office of Services to the Aging (OSA), the Michigan State Fair, and Consumers Energy. They recognize the unpaid contributions made by persons, age 60 and older, in two categories: Leadership in the community and Service to others.

"These awards are presented every year to honor very special older adults for their valuable contributions to our state," said OSA Director Sharon Gire. "They are a source of inspiration and encouragement to others of all ages."

Johnnie Rodebush of Niles received the 2008 Senior Citizen of the Year Award for Leadership. He was recognized for his achievements as a community leader and activist, and for his unparalleled volunteer commitment to the Region IV Area Agency on Aging. Because of his advocacy, community leaders and elected officials paid attention to the comments and concerns of older adults.

William and Ellen Head of Fraser were named co-recipients of the 20008 Senior Citizen of the Year Award for Service. William has made exceptional contributions through activities such as delivering meals to homebound individuals, fundraising, and singing at nursing homes. He has devoted his time to organizations such as Neighborhood Watch, Seniors and Law Enforcement Together, Fraternal Order of United Irishmen, and the Macomb County Ritual Team that conducts burial ritual services for military veterans.

His wife Ellen also has been involved in activities such as home delivered meals and fundraising. She delivers weekly communion to homebound individuals, and helps others through organizations such as Neighborhood Watch, Seniors and Law Enforcement Together, and Wives of the Fraternal Order of United Irishmen.