Richard Ott jokes that he likes retirement parties.

Ott, 74, of Bismarck, has taken five jobs since his first try at retirement. He has been named North Dakota Outstanding Older Worker for 2007 by Experience Works, a nationwide provider of training and employment services for older workers.

The group designates outstanding older workers in each state every year.

Ott has been the executive director of the North Dakota School Boards Association and an activist with the Central Dakota Humane Society. He has worked in jobs ranging from restaurant work to land surveying and teaching.

Ott currently is the school superintendent in Glen Ullin and commutes there about 60 miles from Bismarck.

In a statement issued through Experience Works, Ott said work keeps him "mentally alert and physically conditioned," and he values education.

"Human development is the most fascinating aspect of life," he said. "To be able to witness this and actually have a hand in it on a daily basis is very satisfying."

- Associated Press