The year was 1915. WWI was in full swing. The first transcontinental phone call was made. Pyrex glassware was introduced. And, Citrus Place resident Sarah Frittito, was born in Italy.
107 years later, wars continues, phone calls are wireless and every day, Pyrex is in nearly every kitchen, and Sarah celebrated her birthday at Citrus Place among friends, family, and the local fire department.
“With today’s focus on wellness, it’s not surprising that more and more seniors are becoming centenarians – we have four at Citrus Place. But Sarah takes the cake by celebrating her 107th birthday and maintaining an independent lifestyle,” said Executive Director Lori Spencer.
Adding to her lunch celebration were Sarah’s favorite red velvet cupcakes, baked fresh by Citrus Place’s own culinary team, and a visit by the local Fire Department. The Fire Chief led a chorus of “Happy Birthday” and made Sarah an honorary member of their crew.
When asked her secret to a long and interesting life, Sarah replied, “Cooking with olive oil and being kind to people.”
Prior to retiring at Citrus Place in 2017 at the age of 102, Sarah enjoyed working as a key punch operator, retail saleswoman and later as a volunteer for AARP in Riverside for 11 years. She also enjoyed being a “Room Mother” for 8 years at St. Thomas School. Other interests included traveling, gardening and musical events.
“How do you summarize a life of 107 years?” asked Spencer. “Sarah has seen and done so much, and continues to stay active. She enjoys attending our many social events and musical performances and often is in attendance at Citrus Place’s Christian Fellowship meetings.”
“We wish her a very happy 107th!” added Spencer.
Located in Riverside, California, Citrus Park offers a full continuum of outstanding care, spacious apartments, expansive grounds, dedicated staff and desirable amenities and programming. Based on resident and family feedback, Citrus Place was named a “Best of Senior Living 2022” by A Place for Mom. Citrus Place is an MBK Senior Living community, an award-winning leader and innovator in senior housing with a shared mission to nurture a culture of genuine care. We're proud to be ranked in Fortune magazine's top 25 "Best Workplace in Aging Services" since 2020 and certified as a Great Place to Work© since 2018.
