Mrs. Smith’s happy day

Lindsay Sandham

It’s not every day that a human reaches 100 years of age. In the

close-knit neighborhoods of the Balboa peninsula, a centennial

birthday means party time.

Longtime peninsula resident Alice Smith hit triple digits

Saturday, while celebrating with her many loved ones at a party in

her honor. She attributes her longevity to eating fruits and

vegetables and being surrounded by so much love.

“I love everybody and everybody loves me,” said Smith, who’s lived

in her neighborhood so long she knows just about everybody. Smith’s

good friend and neighbor Joanne Walker hosted the gathering where

dozens of relatives, friends and neighbors trickled in and out -- all

with arms full of cards, flowers and trays of food.

“I’ve known Alice 35 years,” Walker said. “She’s a wonderful,

wonderful person.”

All generations showed up, including Smith’s three

great-great-grandchildren -- 7-year-old twins Zachary and Cassidy

Eckman and their younger brother, 4-year-old Joshua Eckman.

“She always does fun stuff,” Zachary said of his

great-great-grandmother. He added that she always has good snacks and

candy for them when they come over.

At 100, Smith still lives on her own, in the same house she and

her husband bought in 1954.

She also does her own hair.

“I gave myself a permanent,” she said. “You know, a Toni. I think

it turned out pretty good.”

Although she told party-goers not to bring presents, Smith

received many gifts and cards.

“I told ‘em, no presents, just their presence,” she said.

She also got letters from President Bush, Gov. Schwarzenneger, and

Sen. John Campbell.

Many of Smith’s neighbors joked that they’re all so nice to her

because “she’s got something on everyone” on the block.

“She’s our idol,” said neighbor Ed Eaton. “If I look like that

when I’m 60, I’ll be excited. She’s wonderful -- to be 100 and live

on your own and take care of yourself and everything else.”

Smith said she plans to go on enjoying life on the peninsula,

surrounded by friends.

“I’m still here,” she said. “I feel the same inside ... I feel

great.”