Merced County Times Newspaper

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‘Old Timers’ association celebrates longtime residents

By The Merced County Times On Apr 30, 2026

The Old Timers of Merced County recognized 18 distinguished honorees during the group’s 83rd annual luncheon last Sunday, April 26, at the Italo-American Lodge in Downtown Merced.

Since its formation in 1942, the Old Timers committee has proudly honored individuals aged 85 or older who have lived in Merced County for 50 years or more.

The honoree list was developed through a nomination process that started in Janurary.

During Sunday’s event, the honorees enjoyed VIP treatment, with complimentary corsages, family portraits and lunch. They were also recognized with certificates and proclamations from various political representatives, including the Merced County Board of Supervisors.

2026 Old Timers Honorees

Beverly Atkinson

Nancy Brawley

Carol Gamble

John Grant

Dorella Heller

Chuck Herman

Richard Lemas

David Marshall

JL Marshall

Edna Mason

Louis Minor

Gloria Minor

Alice Phillips

Don Reid

Gary Reinero

Walter Soernsen

Kenneth Stone

Florence Walker

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Established in 1964, Mid-Valley Publications (MVP) is an employee-owned group of five weekly community newspapers in Merced and Stanislaus counties. With the Merced County Times, Atwater-Winton Times, Hilmar Times, Waterford News, Hughson Chronicle—Denair Dispatch, we are one of the longest-standing publishers of local newspapers within these two counties.

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