The Beacon

On September 17, Mary Snider, a three year resident of Edgewood, celebrated her 100th birthday with a huge bash. The party began with an official birthday message and presentation by Mayor Debbie Hymore-Tester.  Not only was Ms. Snider presented with the key to the city, but also two matted and framed certificates from the White House.  One was a birthday card with a congratulatory message from President and Mrs. Bush.  The second certificate was an official confirmation from the office of Congressman John Linder that a U.S. flag in Mary's honor was flown over the capitol in Washington D.C. on her birthday.  The flag will then be sent to her as a keepsake. Since music has been a large part of Mary's life, Don Gresh played a wide variety of different songs on his accordion for one-and-a-half hours of fun.  At one point Ms. Snider took a spin around the floor to a favorite polka.  Smiles, laughter and clapping surrounded the room as all who attended listened to the music and enjoyed their afternoon together.
A decorated chocolate cake with chocolate icing was served with vanilla/chocolate swirl ice cream and a raspberry punch.  "I love chocolate cake," said Mary.  "It's my favorite."
Surrounded by family, friends, staff members and fellow residents, the birthday girl opened presents, lots of cards and received several colorful floral bouquets.  
Mary was born in Cleveland, Ohio and moved to Port Clinton with her family.  She met her husband, Leo, at a dance when he was in the service.  After dating for a short time, they married when Mary was just nineteen and had two children, Betty and Bill.  "I've always stayed busy.  I like having fun," Snider said with a grin.  She always led a very active lifestyle not only raising a family but also working as a telephone operator for a cab company as well as in a restaurant.  Singing in the church choir, winning numerous trophies at bowling and playing the organ were just a few of the things Mary enjoyed in her free time.  She also loved to dance anytime she got the chance and played a mean game of poker.  Contributing her longevity to her active lifestyle, Snider states, "I've led a good life!"
Edgewood Manor Nursing Center is proud to say they have three ladies living in their facility over the age of 100.  They are Elsie Woolley who turned 101 in May, Irene Kosa who turned 100 in April and Mary Snider who just turned 100 in September.