**Plains, Ga., Prepares Grand Celebration for Jimmy Carter’s 100th Birthday**

**PLAINS, Ga.** — As Jimmy Carter becomes the first American president to reach 100 years old, the small southwestern Georgia town of Plains is bustling with excitement and preparation. Lawns are adorned with signs that proclaim, “Happy 100th Birthday Mr. President!” The local general store is stocking up on its famous peanut butter ice cream, and the town’s population is expected to double for a day as visitors arrive to honor their beloved “Mr. Jimmy.”

The festivities planned for Carter’s milestone birthday include a military jet flyover, a naturalization ceremony, and a concert. Even though Carter, who is in hospice care, is not expected to attend the events, the town is pulling out all the stops. Carter, who hasn’t attended a major event since his wife’s memorial in November 2023, has always been a significant figure in Plains, a town with a population of just 720 residents.

Locals share a deep affection for Carter, with many having personal stories of running into him at local spots such as the pharmacy or the peanut shop. This affection is apparent regardless of political affiliations, as even some houses displaying signs for former President Donald Trump also have signs celebrating Carter. “Everybody in this town is crazy about him,” said Sonya Fox, an employee at a local medical clinic established by Carter.

Jill Stuckey, superintendent of the Jimmy Carter National Historical Park, visits Carter almost daily. She describes him as upbeat but nonchalant about his centennial birthday, more interested in how the community is faring and how his friends are doing than in celebrating himself.

Historically, Carter has preferred low-key birthday celebrations, even during his presidency. After his presidential term ended, he returned to Plains, opting for modest celebrations except for a notable 75th birthday gala that raised funds to restore the Rylander Theatre in Americus, Ga.

Carter's journey to 100 has been filled with challenges, including a metastatic melanoma diagnosis in 2015 and several falls in recent years. Despite declining health, Carter made a surprise appearance during his 99th birthday at the town’s annual peanut festival, drawing cheers from the crowd.

Residents have been planning Carter’s 100th birthday celebration for over a year. Events include a military flyover featuring F-18 jets Carter had authorized as president, and a concert with performances by country musician Brent Cobb and pianist David Osbourne. Tickets for the events quickly sold out, showcasing the community’s eagerness to celebrate this historic moment.

Carter's legacy in Plains is profound. Growing up as the son of peanut farmers, his early life in the town has left an enduring influence. His contributions extend beyond politics; his home doubles as the epicenter of their humanitarian efforts, drawing 65,000 tourists to the town annually.

As Carter reaches this remarkable milestone, Plains commemorates not just a former president, but a cherished member of their close-knit community.