June 7, 2023 3:30 a.m.

Douglas County Commissioners Tom Kress, Chris Boice and Tim Freeman, along with the County Senior Services Department have announced that Michael and Helen LeRitz were named the Douglas County Senior Services Volunteers of the Month for May of 2023.  The couple was presented with the award at the Bistro Sixty Senior Dining Site in Sutherlin on May 30th.

Commissioner Tom Kress said, “Michael and Helen are great assets to our volunteer team in Sutherlin. We really appreciate that they make time as a couple to serve others, their enthusiasm is contagious”.

The county release said the LeRitzes moved to Douglas County about eighteen months ago and began volunteering at the Sutherlin Bistro Sixty Senior Dining Site right after they got settled. Both are retired U.S. Air Force veterans. Michael previously worked for the State of Texas before retiring full-time.

Bistro Sixty Senior Dining Sites prepare meals on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at seven rural dining locations in Glide, Glendale, Reedsport, Riddle, Sutherlin, Winston, and Yoncalla. Those who know of residents who could benefit from their Meals on Wheels delivery program or with meals at the dining sites should contact Senior Services at 440-3677. Those who want to help as a volunteer can call the same number.