Sunnyside resident Maria Fernandez celebrated her 100th birthday at a special party held by Sunnyside Community Services (SCS). Originally from Panama, Maria has children and grandchildren who are spread out among three countries: the United States, Canada, and Panama. Cooking has always been one of her pas­sions, and her arroz con pollo and sancocho are her favorite dishes to offer family and friends.

Maria has been a longtime member of SCS’s Center for Active Older Adults where she takes exercise classes, such as Zumba and stretching, and participates in arts and crafts and other activities. The SCS Center for Active Older is located in Sunnyside and offers a number of activities for people age 60 and older, including recreational, fitness, and educational activities.