New award recognizes seniors over 70 who are still 'part of the scene'

With so many awards recognizing up-and-coming youth, one Calgarian is upping the age limit to show that seniors are still making a difference.

"That really encapsulates all of them, making a difference," Jim Gray, Calgary-basedbusinessman and philanthropist, told the Calgary Eyeopener."Wanting to leave this place healthier and happier and richer than we found it."

Gray said seniors areliving longer and staying healthier, leading many olderCalgarians to become entrepreneurs and stayactive in the community much later in life.

"People don't know about it but they're starting new companies, they're mentoring young people," Gray said."Seniors often[bring] financial as well as intellectual resources to the table."

Gray hopes the Top 7 Over 70 awardswill highlight the effortsseniorshave made in seven categories:

• Health and recreation.
• Arts and culture.
• Science.
• Business.
• Environment.
• Overcomingadversity.
• Making a difference.

"Two things we're trying to do is put some light on the contributions seniors made, but the other one is just thatwe long to inspire seniors to do more, to get involved, to be part of the scene," Gray said.

Any senior who is over 70 and lives in Calgary or its surrounding communitiesis eligible fornomination. Gray said seniors can be nominated onlyfor something they have done after reaching70.

To nominate someonefor one of the awards, visit www.top7over70.com. Gray said every nominee will be recognized. The seven winners will be honoured on Oct. 2at the Sheraton Hotel.

• MORE CALGARY NEWS|Horse put down after breaking leg in Calgary Stampede chuckwagon race
• MORE CALGARY NEWS|'It's just so sad': 3 bodies found in burned-out vehicle in northwest Calgary

• With files from the Calgary Eyeopener