The celebration goes on as Bridge at Cherry Hill honors centenarians

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The Bridge at Cherry Hill’s iconic party planners – namely Executive Director Maryann Grace, Sales/Community Relations Director Jennifer Burns, Executive Cher Marvin Carter and Dining Room Supervisor Ann Marie Cardilli – were “totally disappointed” when the annual Governor’s Centenarian Brunch was cancelled.

“We always look forward to hosting this important event,” Burns noted. “We love welcoming the state’s centenarians; however, we weren’t surprised that COVID-19 forced cancellation of this important event and countless other such traditions throughout Rhode Island.”

Nonetheless, the show did go on as the award-winning retirement facility-assisted living center paid tribute to not one but a half-dozen residents who have reached the magical milestone of celebrating their 100th birthday and beyond.

While Burns said the governor’s event could possibly be rescheduled for September and host it in conjunction with National Assisted Living Week.

Meanwhile, The Bridge paid tribute to five of the six centenarians who live at the Johnston-based facility and the ever-created Burns asked those “fantastic folks” what their advice would be for the boys and girls who are or have graduated from high school in recent weeks.

Thus, Nazareth "Nat” Piccirilli, who turned 100 on April 2, offered: “Listen to your mother and father; they have the best advice for you. Study your lessons and always be kind to people, especially to people older than you.”

Nancy Croce, who turned 103 on March 25, said: “Live our life our way and you will be fine.”

Ida Pezzullo, who will turn 100 on Aug. 18, said: “Work had as long as you’re able. Enjoy it so there is no street there.” Ida, Burns related, “Didn’t retire until she was well into her 80s.”

George Costa, who turned 100 Feb. 16, noted: “You have made it through high school and going to college so you are already on the right path. Continue on.”

Angela McCord, who turned 103 on April 13, noted: “Don’t have children and you will live to be as old as me.”

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