Celebration: Carrie Turns 100!
By Beverly J. Clark, Publicity Director
In the last two issues, we chronicled Carrie Adelia Gabriel, an amazing Retiree on the move and an L.A. historical figure, as she turns 100.
It was an honor to represent RLACEI in the celebration of Ms. Carrie Gabriel’s 100th birthday at her home Jan. 28. Joining in the celebration were her son, Robert Rainey; Club CEO Robert Larios and Vice President of Marketing Summy Lam; my husband, David Clark; and Ms. Gabriel’s long-time friend for over 60 years whom she supervised for several years, Mrs. Letty Herndon and her husband, James.
Carrie’s home was adorned with balloons, flowers and birthday decorations. Robert Larios presented her with a beautiful plaque from the Club. RLACEI provided Carrie a chocolate birthday cake, her favorite, and a variety of balloons including three large purple balloons with the number 100. RLACEI Director Liz Torres created a personalized birthday card to commemorate this celebration.
Carrie received a certificate of recognition from Mayor Eric Garcetti, a resolution from the Los Angeles City Council, a letter of congratulations from Gov. Gavin Newsom and many cards and letters from dignitaries, friends and family from across the country. She did not want a big celebration due to pandemic restrictions, but that did not stop several well-wishers from stopping by to congratulate her and drop off tokens of love and appreciation.
Carrie says, “I’m still riding high on cloud nine!” She thanks all who celebrated with her and wished her a happy birthday.
