By Jarret Liotta

WESTPORT — Sue’s Cafe at the Westport Center for Senior Activities was the site of a century-old celebration Friday afternoon.

Frances Mande, 100, a longtime local resident, enjoyed birthday cake and best wishes from her community.

“She wanted to have a chance to see all of her friends at the center, who have all been so wonderful to her,” explained her daughter, Susan Zucker of Massachusetts, who was in attendance with her husband, Rick, and Mande’s son, Jerry Mande, of Maryland.

Sue Pfister’s, longtime center director, for whom the cafe was named, noted Mande’s continuing involvement despite the limitations brought on by the pandemic.

“What I find inspiring about Frances was her ability to engage in our Zoom programs since the pandemic,” she said.

Also in attendance was State Sen. Will Haskell and U.S. Congressman Jim Himes.

“I’m so thrilled to celebrate this occasion,” Himes said.

Himes presented Mande — who has three children, five grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren — with a proclamation honored the occasion and asked her what the secret was to her longevity.

“Great support from a lot of people, great support from the senior center, and a great family,” she said.