A Hundred Years And Counting…

By LA QUINTA CLARK

A slash of red lipstick adorned Adele Lerner’s 109-year-old face as she fielded the usual questions about her secret to longevity.

“Living a balanced life,” said the oldest living client of Selfhelp Community Services in Queens.

Lerner, a self-taught painter who held her first art show several years ago in Flushing, was among several centenarians feted with music, videos and other amusements at a birthday party sponsored by the organization and City Council members on Thursday.

“It is amazing and inspirational,” director Sandy Myers said of the event.

“I work all the time and I never sit,” said Virginia Devejian, 102,  “I exercise, clean and cook for myself.”

Although the party focused on the ages of the attendees, the attendees seemed oblivious to the theme. Laughter filled the room as they told jokes and made their rounds for food and refreshments, joined by family and friends.

“In Europe people would like to have a little pleasure and less work, and here they do more work and less pleasure,” said John Neumeyer, 100.

Carmen Hernandez, who turns 100 in August, and her only daughter Iris joined the festivities and also revealed secrets to living a long life. Carmen had a very hard childhood, and contributes those struggles to her strength.

“Make it the best for yourself and make it the best life you have. You have to help yourself and be independent,” she said.

Selfhelp Community Services has served the senior community for 80 years, with over 2,000 clients of whom 77 has hit the 100 year old mark.

The organization is a tool for elders to connect them with programs that provide housing, Nazi Victim Services, senior centers and more.

“Our 100 and over clients inspire us every day,” said CEO Stuart Kaplan. “They’ve witnessed enormous change – World Wars I and II, major advances in technology and transportation, and the creation of civil rights.”

Councilmembers and board members  congratulated all the guests on their accomplishments and independent spirit.

Photo by La Quinta Clark of Adele Lerner surrounded by well-wishers.