It is a room full of stories.
At its annual centenarian luncheon, The Osborn retirement home celebrated the 24 of its 430 residents reaching milestone birthdays. The celebrants ranged from from 106 year old World War II veteran Harry Fleisch to mere 99 year old youngsters who will turn the one hundred year old corner later this year.
“We are truly blessed to have all of these centenarians with us here today,” said CEO Matt Anderson, who is entering his 28th year at The Osborn. “So many of them have contributed to this great country and this great world, and not only that, to this great organization.”
Anderson, acting as the event emcee, circled the room speaking with various centenarians and helping each share life observations and advice. Here is just some of the advice dispensed by those who have seen so much.
Barbara Jackson, age 103
Jackson advises to get a good education, and always be sure to save some money. Her secret to longevity is a glass of scotch in the afternoon.
Harry Fleisch, age 106
The oldest resident at The Osborn, Fleisch fled the Nazis when he was young, coming to America. He joined the US armed forces in the intelligence service (speaking fluent German) and returned to fight Hitler, fighting in the Battle of the Bulge. Fleisch’s advice for young people is to get a good job and work hard.
Ann Unger, Age 103
Unger grew up in Frankfurt, Germany. At age 17 she fled Hitler, coming to New York. She had been scheduled to go to the junior Olympics in Israel “but the Nazis wouldn’t let us out,” said Unger. That’s why I came here.”
Unger’s advice to young people is to pay attention, ask questions and have awareness.
Charlotte Kaufman, Age 101
Her secret to longevity is to have wonderful children. And her advice to young people is to listen to their parent’s advice.
Dr. Ed Pasciuti, Age 99
Pasciuti’s mother was first at The Osborn, then he decided later to move to the campus in 2000. Known informally as the mayor on The Osborn campus, he worked 40 years in the school system in New Rochelle. His secret to longevity is “God’s doing and it’s in your DNA”. Students still call and visit him. He advises young people to be in the moment, do something that interests you and be with people as much as you can because socialization is a very important aspect of life.
Hannah Shmerler, Age 99
Shmerler grew up in Port Chester and Scarsdale. Her secret to longevity is to keep active and not let age define you. She also recommends staying connected with friends and loved ones.
Sylvia Gurchin, Age 99
Gurchin grew up in Brooklyn. Her secret to longevity is good luck and being around people who care. “People who care give hope and faith to the people who they are with,” said Gurchin.
She tells young people to respect others and yourself and don’t give up on life, be open to opportunities.
Lillian Hirsch, Age 102
Born and raised in Hudson, New York Hirsch, a librarian, said she inherited longevity from her parents. Her best advice for young people is to try new things and read lots of books.
William Wolff, Age 100
Wolff has always advised CEO Anderson to buy water utilities. Wolff was originally from Toronto, Canada and lived in Boston before coming to The Osborn. His secret to longevity is good genes and a healthy attitude. His advice for young people is to count your blessings every day.
Mary Becktoft, Age 103
Becktoft worked as a nurse at The Osborn before becoming a resident in 2003. She said young people need to find meaning in life, stick with it, and enjoy what you do.
Dr. George Reed, Age 102
Originally from Brooklyn, Reed said the secret to longevity is to have a positive attitude. He said young people should find out what they love doing and have some fun.
Mildred Schoenbrun
Schoenbrun was also born in Brooklyn and moved to The Osborn from New Jersey. Her secret to longevity is to pick your parents. And for young people, she said to be good to your children as you may need them someday.
