Longtime Verona Resident Turns 102

When Geraldine Ballinger was born, William Howard Taft was President of the United States. The Titanic departed on its maiden voyage a few months before her third birthday, and the Apollo 11 moon landing changed the world forever a week after her 60th birthday.

On Thursday, "Gerry" celebrated her 102nd birthday at the Hillwood Terrace Apartments in Verona, surrounded by dozens of friends, and three generations of family, including her great granddaughter, Gabriella.

The dining room at Hillwood Terrace was packed with more than 40 residents, who applauded and cheered when the guest of honor made her way into the room. Smiling brightly, Gerry happily waved and greeted the assembled guests, making her way to the table where her family was seated.

Gerry, who lived in Cedar Grove for nearly 60 years before moving to Verona, worked at the Booth, Berman & Bates law firm as a private secretary in Montclair for decades, retiring in 1982 at the age of 73. One of the secrets to living such a long life, Gerry says, is working past retirement age.

In addition to working hard, and avoiding foods that contain salt and sugar, Ballinger says your outlook on life makes all the difference in the world.

"Having a pleasant disposition is one thing that keeps you going. If you're grumpy and cranky and critical, you'll never make it," she said.

Verona Mayor Frank Sapienza was also at the party, and gave Ballinger a Township of Verona lapel pin.

"I first met Gerry on her 100th birthday, and I'm looking forward to continuing our friendship," he said.

Michelle DeWitt, program coordinator for Hillwood Terrace, presented Gerry with a large birthday cake, and lead the room in a rousing rendidition of "Happy Birthday" after a brief introduction.

"We are a facility for seniors age 62 and up.. Gerry is the up," she joked.

"Whenever we have parties, she's always the first person up here dancing with me. Thank you, Gerry, for all the happiness you inspire in us all..102 years old and still dancing."

"I don't feel it!" said Gerry.