MOUNT CLEMENS (WWJ) – It was party time in Macomb County on Tuesday, as county officials celebrated the lives of three local centenarians.
There was singing and cupcakes at the “100 or bust” birthday party, but interestingly enough, all three ladies honored on Tuesday said they’ve avoided sweets for the most part for most of their lives – perhaps a secret to their longevity.
Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel and his staff honored 100-year-old Grace Falconer of Roseville, 102-year-old Rita Bova of Macomb and 103-year-old Ann Pierce of Clinton Township.
While that helped make for a healthy life, Bova told WWJ’s Jon Hewett about what’s made her happy over the last century.
“I love to dance. That was the biggest joy in my life,” she said. “When I was in my 20s, it was with the big bands. Definitely Glenn Miller. And I could dance half the night.”
Cue Miller’s “In the Mood,” a joyful tune that could make anyone smile.
Bova said some of the other secrets to her long life include her daily diet – half a banana for breakfast, soup and half a sandwich for lunch and meat, potatoes, veggies and salad for dinner. Every day at the same time.
She also gets up and goes to bed at the same time, and has a glass of red wine at 5 p.m. every day.
It’s also important for Bova to go for a daily walk and read every day.
Falconer has spent her 100 years traveling the world, including visits to Africa, Asia, Italy, Jamaica, the Bahamas and other places.
Pierce, a Macomb County resident for 73 years, worked in a factory during WWII, building airplanes. She has three kids, six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
County officials say a dozen or so other “century club” members in Macomb County who couldn’t make it to the party will be receiving recognition soon.
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