MCA’s first centenarian

A milestone achievement as membership in organization surpasses 900

By Michael Sobol, MCA Member

The Men’s Cultural Alliance (MCA) has long been a beacon of camaraderie, support and shared interests. As we celebrate our first member reaching the incredible age of 100, we also take pride in surpassing the milestone of 900 members. This dual achievement is a testament to the vibrant and thriving community that MCA has fostered over the years.

A tribute to longevity

Reaching the age of 100 is a remarkable feat, deserving of recognition and celebration. Esteemed member Irwin Mannis has reached this iconic milestone. Born in 1925, Irwin witnessed and contributed to a century of change, growth and innovation.

MCA exceeds 900 members

From its humble beginnings, MCA has grown exponentially, reaching and exceeding 900 members. This growth reflects the association’s ability to adapt, innovate and meet the evolving needs of its members. Our diverse community is united by a shared commitment to fostering connections, promoting wellbeing and enriching lives through various activities and programs.

Programs and activities

MCA offers a wide range of programs and activities that cater to the diverse interests of our members. From educational workshops and cultural events to recreational sports and social gatherings, there is something for everyone. Our commitment to providing high-quality, engaging and inclusive programs has been instrumental in attracting and retaining members.

Member involvement

The success of these initiatives relies heavily on the involvement and feedback of members. We encourage all members to actively participate in shaping the future of MCA by sharing their ideas, volunteering their time and engaging in our activities. Together, we can build an even stronger and more vibrant community.

The celebration of our first member reaching 100 years old and surpassing 900 members is a momentous occasion in the history of MCA. It is a testament to the enduring appeal and impact of our association. As we honor these achievements, we also reaffirm our commitment to serving our members and fostering a community that thrives on connection, support and shared passions. Here’s to many more years of growth, friendship and success at MCA!

Jack Abel’s interview with Irwin Mannis

JA: Thank you for meeting with me. I was made aware that you are about to celebrate your 100th birthday on April 15. Fantastic and mazal tov. Where were you born?

IM: I was born in Cleveland on April 15, 1925, and I spent most of my life there.

JA: Tell me about your parents.

IW: My father came from Belarus and worked in various city jobs — driving a truck, etc. He worked until the age of 81 and lived until the age of 94. He was divorced and had three daughters from his first marriage.

My mother came from Lithuania. She was a homemaker and seamstress. She was previously married and had two boys from her first marriage. She was a widow and lived to the age of 97and-a-half.

JA: I am beginning to see genetic longevity in your family. But let’s move on to your educational background.

IM: I attended public school, but when it came to high school, I decided to attend a technical school since I had an interest in aeronautics.

JA: You graduated from high school in 1943 during WWII.

IM: That’s right. Shortly after graduation, I was drafted into the army. After basic training, I was assigned to ASTP (Army Specialized Training Program) at the University of Pittsburgh. For the next six months, I took engineering courses. Thereafter, I got chicken pox and was quarantined in Pittsburgh. I have always said that “chicken pox saved my life.” I was not sent to a fighting battalion. Rather, I went home and 60 days after D Day, I was sent to Omaha Beach to join the Red Ball Express — driving trucks loaded with supplies and equipment from Belgium to Patton’s third army on the front lines.

JA: So, you never actually were involved in any battles.

IM: That’s correct. In fact, I was later promoted to the rank of sergeant. I also drove Nazi POWs from France to Germany.

JA: Did you ever experience any antisemitism either growing up or in the army?

IM: Never. In fact, in my army service, my partner was a West Virginian red neck. We got along fabulously well.

JA: What did you do upon your discharge from the army?

IM: I returned in 1946 and, with the aid of the GI Bill, I attended Case Western Reserve for a few years and then transferred to Cleveland Marshall Law School. I attended school at night while working during the day.

JA: Did you then begin a law career?

IM: No, I did not. I never practiced law. For the next 20 years I ran an auto trim shop. Thereafter, I started my own similar business just outside Cleveland. At the age of 62, I sold the business and retired.

JA: When did you get married?

IM: I married Shirley in 1950. We were married 62 years. She passed away in 2012 at the age of 88.

JA: How did you meet?

IM: Shirley worked around the corner from where I worked while going to school at night. I met her while having lunch at the local soda shop. She grew up in Cleveland and attended public schools. Shirley was a homemaker and had her own antiques business.

JA: Do you have any children?

IM: We had two daughters. Charlene is married and has two children and three grandchildren. She is a home maker and has an estate sales business. My other daughter passed away last year.

JA: I am interviewing you at Charlene’s beautiful home where you now reside. You have a part-time care giver. Tell me what an average day is like.

IM: I usually get up at 8 a.m. I go to the club house and exercise. I also go to the Baker Senior Center a few times a week where I play Rummikub and have lunch. I also go with my son-in-law, Gordie, to Costco and Publix to pick up my prescriptions.

JA: How do you spend relaxing time?

IM: I read The New York Times every day, cover to cover. I also love to watch sports. I am a big fan of the Browns, Cavaliers and Guardians. For news, I tune into CNN. I really am interested in all topics. By 10:30 p.m., I am tired and go to sleep.

JA: Do you dine out?

IM: I do go out occasionally. My favorite place is Mission Barbeque for lunch.

JA: I must tell you that you seem quite an independent guy for your age.

IM: I drove till the age of 98 and really try to be as independent as I can. I am still upset that it was only very recently that I had to use a walker rather than a cane.

JA: You are one of the most optimistic people I have met. I am sure that you have been asked this many times: What is the secret to your long life?

IM: No alcohol, no smoking and no sex.

JA: I will keep that in mind. But there is one more thing that I noticed. You are always smiling and keep on telling me jokes

IM: I do tell jokes at Rabbi Muller’s Comedy night. Be sure to catch my performance at the forthcoming event. By the way, I meant to tell you that I am in excellent health, take very little medication and have all my original parts.

JA: What do you feel about the world we are living in now?

IM: I am very disturbed that we are fighting each other, and we should be taking care of the poor and homeless in our country.

JA: How would you like to be remembered?

IM: As a good and funny guy. A mensch.

JA: Irwin, I will be back in New York on April 15, but I want to wish you a happy birthday and may you live until 120. I have a feeling you will live beyond that. I absolutely loved meeting you. Your optimism, smile and jokes are an example of the way to face our aging future. You are independent, with remarkable memory, active and, as I understand from you, you are still looking at women. Finally, I want to say that you are so fortunate to be surrounded by such a great family. It is something I wish we all could have as we grow older.

Again, happy birthday.