100 year-old John Perovich, who was the University of New Mexico president during the early 80s, celebrates at the Centennial Birthday Celebration held by the City of Albuquerque’s Department of Senior Affairs Tuesday afternoon at the North Valley Senior Center. (Roberto E. Rosales / City Desk ABQ)

Three centenarians were honored at the city’s Centennial Birthday Celebration Tuesday. The annual event, which is held on the 100th day of the year, took place at the North Valley Senior Center.

More than 100 people showed up to celebrate the lives of the active senior citizens, according to Victoria Velarde, city communications coordinator. Entertainers, friends, family and students from Valley High School participated in the event.

“We wanted to bring together members who are turning 100 or more to celebrate,” Velarde said.

102 year-old Lydia Murphy, center, celebrates along with North Valley Senior staffers Rosemarie Padilla, left, and Angela Gallegos during a Centennial Birthday Celebration held by the City of Albuquerque’s Department of Senior Affairs. (Roberto E. Rosales / City Desk ABQ)

The three senior citizens who were honored this year all participate in the city’s senior centers or other programs. 

They are:

  • Kay Dolce, 100, who is active playing shuffleboard in the city’s Sports and Fitness Program. 
  • Lydia Murphy, 102, participates in the North Valley Share Your Care program.
  • John Perovich, 100, an active Highland Senior Center member and former president of the University of New Mexico.

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