With excitement filling the air, seniors all across Sampson County traveled down to Garland to celebrate an achievement that very few centers ever make, being named a Center of Excellence by the state.

Marie Faircloth, the director of Garland Senior Center, couldn’t help but smile over achieving something that many consider to be “prestigious.”

Surrounded by 200 seniors, friends and well wishers, she stated of the award, “It took a lot of hard work and dedication to make this happen.”

Faircloth said that she was definitely not alone in her effort to make sure her senior center is recognized.

“This is a joint effort,” Faircloth commented.

Lorie Sutton, the director of Department of Aging, is also quite excited to know that one of her centers has been honored in such a capacity.

“This will help to receive grants,” Sutton commented.

In addition to recognizing the center’s award, many from all around the community just came to honor senior citizens in recognition of National Older American’s Month.

One senior to attend for such a reason is Helen Herring, 74, who just enjoyed getting to talk with some of her friends

“This has given me something to look forward to, to be among people,” said Herring.

Fellow senior Edna Hayes was also quite thrilled to be there on Thursday morning.

“It means a lot to me, “said Hayes, in regards to the party.

Now while some seniors came on the own to the event. Others chose to attend with their nutrition site group.

Mattie Murphy, Butler Court site manager, was thrilled to give 18 of her seniors a chance to get out.

“It enhances them and allows them to fellowship and get educational information,” said Murphy, “It proves that they may be getting up in ages, but they can still enjoy a good quality of life.”

Roseboro site manager Pam Peoples also brought 18 seniors with her for the festivities.

“They have got everything here to entertain seniors,” said Peoples commenting of the jazz band, prizes, health screenings and more that were a part of the day.

Linda Armwood, the Nutrition Program manager, stated that she was thrilled to see so many seniors getting together in Garland.

“Just being able to come together means a lot for seniors,” said Armwood.

In addition to seniors present, Faircloth also invited children from Garland Head Start to take part in the fun.

Sarah Mathis, director of Garland Head Start, stated that despite the extreme age difference between the two groups, the seniors and the children both seem to get a kick out of being there.

“They love it; they even dance and sing together,” said Mathis.

Katie Holland can be reached at 910-592-8137, ext. 136, or by e-mail at silife@heartlandpublications.com.