Harlem Senior Celebrates 100th Birthday In Style

EAST HARLEM, NY — A woman who has lived in Harlem for more than 70 years celebrated her 100th birthday Friday surrounded by friends and family at East Harlem's Carter Burden Network senior center.

Esther Semidey kicked off her party with a rousing karaoke performance before blowing out the candles on her 100th birthday cake — a three-tiered vanilla and guava cake from nearby Valencia Bakery. After the festivities, during which she was given a proclamation by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli, the centenarian broke it down on the dance floor.

"It's very, very wonderful," Semidey said about turning 100. "I love it, because when I was small I used to work hard and think about being good all the time."

Semidey has been attending events at the Carter Burden Network for more than 20 years, the network's executive director William Dionne said. Dozens of friends she met through the center attended the birthday party.

"She is such a vital part of our community," Dionne said. "So it's so great to remember special occasions like this. As you can see it's filled by her family and friends."

Although Semidey just turned 100, she is actually the "kid" sister in her family. Her sister Virginia Padilla recently celebrated her 104th birthday. Padilla planned to welcome her sister to the 100-year-old club, but couldn't make the party at the last minute.

Semidey moved to New York City from Puerto Rico more than 70 years ago with her son. She studied stenography and typewriting at Yauco Commercial College on the island before coming to the city to work.

When asked what her favorite thing to do is, Semidey said "helping people."