Centenarians, Plus 2, are Celebrated at St. Patrick's Home

Families, friends, fellow residents, and staff were all on-hand during the afternoon of June 20th at St. Patrick's Home on Van Cortlandt Park South in the Bronx as everyone honored nine residents who are either 100 years old or more or soon to be in that club of distinction. The event, which was arranged by Recreation Director Janet Kibassa and her team, took place in the large dayroom called St. Joseph Hall, included music by keyboardist Rick Salucci, announcements from various St. Patrick's Home VIPs, plus a large gorgeous chocolate birthday cake made by the St. Patrick's Home Kitchen staff, prayers, songs, and dancing.

"These nine women have been blessed with the longevity of life," said Kibassa. "Both our clinical and non-clinical staff here always go above and beyond to make sure the residents are, not only cared for health-wise but that they always get stimulated with the many activities we do here. I always feel that their social experience here leads to living their lives comfortably."

Songs that were played by Mr. Salucci were carefully selected by Ms. Kibassa and that brought sighs plus tears of joy as seen throughout the audience. Songs included The Beatles, "Let It Be", Alabama's, "Angels Among Us", songs from other artists such as Elton John, and more. The poem, "The Beauty of Elderly Hands" by writer and poet Kelly Roper was read, along with the singing of the 19th Century inspirational song by Johnson Oatman, Jr., "Count Your Blessings" where everyone joined in a heartfelt rendition.

The VIPs were then called upon to read the various heartfelt proclamations and handed out certificates during the event. They included dignitaries such as Resident Council President Mary Frances, Director of Social Services Evelyn Duncan, who read the Citation from Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson, Kathy Dawkins, who read the Citation from the City of Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano, and Infectious Preventionist Jon Bunal, who read the Citation given by Westchester County Executive George Latimer.

Cake and coffee were then served to the birthday honorees, families, and friends. The nine residents at St. Patrick's Home who were praised included:

• Irene Kuchma, age 106
• Irene McDonald, age 103
• Rosaline Robinson, age 101
• Filomena Magavero, age 100
• Dorothy Turnier, age 100
• Catherine Sheridan, age 100
• Margaret Magnotta, age 100
• Ann Lyons, age 99
• Carrie Jackson, age 99