The Enquirer

Friends of the Boone County Arboretum are sponsoring a Volunteer Appreciation Picnic at 6 p.m. with recognition of Volunteer of the Year award at 7 p.m. Wednesday at the Boone County Arboretum at Central Park, Shelter #2.

Dinner will be provided. Information: Cheryl Coles (859) 586-6101.

Fort Wright Police protect the elderly

FORT WRIGHT - The Fort Wright Police Department will be honored Thursdayfor its dedication to protecting local senior citizens.

State Sen. Katie Stine, R-Fort Thomas, will present the award from the Northern Kentucky Elder Maltreatment Alliance at Northern Kentucky Area Development District offices in Florence.

"Protection of our vulnerable adults is a community responsibility,'' Stine said. "This award recognizes local law enforcement for turning this responsibility into action. Hopefully, by publicly acknowledging their excellence in service, we can raise awareness in other communities in Northern Kentucky.''

The Fort Wright Police are being recognized because of their dedication to the community by being constantly aware of older residents' activities and getting involved when something seems amiss.

For example, the police department knew of one senior citizen's habit of taking daily walks. When Detective Michael Knight noticed a change in her routine, he checked on her and learned that she had temporarily suspended her daily walks because of cataract surgery.

To nominate a person or group for an Elder Maltreatment Award, call Community Education Specialist Pat Schneider at (859) 525-4963 or e-mail her at pschneider@seniorservicesnky.org.

Brighton Center sells Entertainment Book

NEWPORT - The 2005 Entertainment Book with discount coupons for regional restaurants, sports, entertainment venues and retailers is now on sale.

This year's Entertainment Book is $25, or $10 cheaper than last year's. It can be purchased at Fifth Third Bank branches or at Brighton Center's office at 741 Central Ave. in Newport. Proceeds benefit Brighton Center's Retired and Senior Volunteer Program initiative to encourage and recognize area volunteerism.

RSVP, part of Senior Corps, invites adults 55 and older to use their life experience and skills to answer the call of their communities in Boone, Kenton and Campbell counties. For information, contact Dee Loar at (859) 491-8303 ext. 2405.