Two Chautauqua County seniors, Mary Wisniewski and Patricia Baker, were honored in Albany for their outstanding service. The award ceremony was sponsored by the New York State Office for the Aging. Mrs. Baker and Mrs. Wisniewski were nominated for this award by MaryAnn Spanos and the Chautauqua County Office for the Aging.

“Both Mary and Patricia are outstanding assets to local organizations and both make incredible contributions each day,” said Goodell. “Their commitment and service is a tremendous example for future generations and will leave a lasting impact on our community. I want to applaud both women for their service and thank them for all they do.”

Mary Wisniewski is 85 years old and was born and raised in Chautauqua County. She is one of eight children and has been involved with the Office for the Aging since 1993. As part of her volunteer efforts, she provides medical transportation, caregiver support visitation for the isolated and assists clients with cooking meals and going grocery shopping. On average, she serves 50 hours a week and provides assistance for at least a dozen people.

Patricia Baker has been a resident of New York for 76 years and is a devoted wife, mother of four, grandmother of six and great-grandmother of six. Patricia has volunteered with numerous organizations, including seven years with the Office for the Aging, 31 years with the Chautauqua Fire Department/Rescue Auxiliary, and 46 years with the VFW Auxiliary. In addition, she has worked with the North Harmony Senior Citizens for 10 years, has been an active member of the Volunteers for Mayville Food Pantry for seven years and has volunteered for five years with the Mayville Senior Citizens.

As part of today’s ceremony, Assemblyman Andy Goodell (R,C,I-Chautauqua) today joined with members of the legislature and the New York State Office for the Aging to observe the 2013 Senior Citizens Day Celebration. May is National Older Americans Month, and today’s event was a chance to honor outstanding seniors who make remarkable contributions to their communities through their volunteer work. Mary Wisniewski of Dunkirk and Patricia Baker of Mayville were among the honorees.