NORWICH – The Chenango County Retired and Senior Volunteer Program honored its 430 participants Friday during a luncheon at the Canasawacta Country Club in Norwich.

“In the past year, 430 senior volunteers have cumulatively served over 64,000 hours in 50 non-profit agencies throughout the county. This is the equivalent of putting more than $1.2 million back into the community,” said program director Linda Campbell.

State Senator James L. Seward and Assemblyman Clifford W. Crouch both spoke at the lunch and praised the contributions of volunteers.

In his opening remarks, Seward recalled a 99th birthday party he attended for an elderly gentleman recently.

“I’m always up for a great party,” said Seward. “I attended this gentleman’s 99th party and when we talked, I said this was great and I hope I can be here for your 100th birthday party next year.”

“He stopped for a moment, he looked me up and down and says: ‘Well you look like a healthy young man to me, I’m sure you’ll still be around by then,’” joked the senator.