Ruth Dodd keeps serving after hitting century mark

Ruth Dodd takes a quick break from slinging meals to seniors to pose for the Gazette lens beside her 100th birthday cake.

Ruth Dodd of Colfax was honored for her 100th birthday at last Wednesday's seniors luncheon in Plymouth Congregational Church, but she was still on the other side of the serving counter.

Ruth continues to serve as a volunteer at the seniors' luncheon and enjoys doing it.

A resident of Colfax for more than 65 years, Ruth marked her 100th birthday Monday.

Those present at the Council on Aging seniors' luncheon last Wednesday presented her with a 100-year birthday cake. She also received the council's Jeanne Stine Memorial Award which was presented in recognition of her "selfless service" to the agency and to seniors in Whitman County.

She was recognized for more than 15 years of service to the volunteer meal site.

"She is just amazing," said Scott Hallett, nutrition director for the Council on Aging and Human Services.

Every Wednesday, Ruth joins the crew at the Plymouth Congregational-UCC Church at about 10 a.m. to help prepare the seniors' meal. Between 45 and 55 senior citizens from the Colfax area normally attend the noon meals.

Ruth helps cooks Terry Kimberling and Betty Lou Maley ready the meal which is served buffet style. She assists with serving those seniors who are unable to go through the serving line. After the dinner she helps with cleanup, and the crew normally wraps up the session at about 2 p.m

Hallett noted Ruth at first walked to the church from her