Sword swallower, 76, performs for seniors

WASILLA, Alaska, Sept. 1 (UPI) -- A 76-year-old Kansas man who claims to be the world's oldest practicing sword swallower put on a show for residents of an Alaska senior center.

Jimmy Ball, who has been swallowing swords for crowds since he was 12 years old, said he took time out from his Alaska vacation to swallow two swords and a stretched-out coat hanger for residents of the Wasilla Senior Center, KTUU-TV, Anchorage, Alaska, reported Thursday.

"I love doing it and I love the people," Ball said after his performance.

The senior center visitors said they were grateful for the entertainment.

"Something different for the people here and they all enjoyed it," resident Carl Tinley said.