The big 1-0-0

Lifelong Wilson resident Beatrice Brawn celebrated her birthday with a gathering at the Wilson Conservation Club on Saturday, Feb. 25, two days before she turned 100 years old.

Brawn was visited by scores of family and friends at the club. Pictured, members of the Wilson Conservation Club Auxiliary presented Brawn with yellow roses tied with a green ribbon, the colors of the club. Brawn is a life member of the club. From left, Ruth Weaver-Metzger, president; Rena Israel, charter member; June Schuman, member; Shirley Thrush, board member; Bonnie Thrush, board member; and Brawn's daughter, Rosemary Smith.

Government officials Wilson Town Supervisor Joe Jastrzemski, Niagara County Legislator Dave Godfrey, and State Sen. George Maziarz were on hand as well. All three levels of government issued proclamations in Brawn's honor. The Maziarz proclamation before the New York State Senate said: "This beloved woman has enriched the lives of those around her through her joyous and sincere love for others and through the quiescent charm and wisdom which comes only from a fullness of years."

Her children include daughters Rosemary Smith and Renee Reynolds and son Larry Thomas, as well as five grandchildren.

Brawn is pictured in the second photo - next to 100 cupcakes made for the occasion - with three of her nine great-grandchildren, from left: Brecken Gritzmacher, Emma Okoniewski and Makenna Gritzmacher. (photos by Larry Austin)