Get to Know Ms. Lavine, Resident at 305 West End Assisted Living

A working journalist and recent centenarian, Ms. Lavine was born in 1924 and speaks proudly of her full and vibrant first 100 years.

She received her undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin, where she was the first woman editor of the student-run Daily Cardinal. Additionally, Ms. Lavine earned her M.S. from Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism — and has been a writer and editor in New York, Massachusetts, Washington, D.C., and Paris.

For 20 years, Ms. Lavine was president of Information Services, a women-owned editorial company in Bethesda, Maryland. The company provided communications for nonprofit and governmental education, medical and health organizations, and international trade fairs. She was also a volunteer mentor and board member for Interages, an intergenerational county program.

She was married for 57 years to her husband Dick, raised two children, lived in the DC area for over 60 years, traveled the world, and wrote her life story as a series of adventures. Since 2008, Ms. Lavine has worked as Senior Editor of the award-winning Moment Magazine.

She edits from her home at 305 West End Assisted Living, blocks from where she grew up and from where her children now live.

The Secret to Her Longevity and Looking Ahead

When asked about the secret to her longevity, Ms. Lavine told Pix11 News, “It’s being active, being concerned, and being interested in other people.”

It was truly a memorable celebration. Ms. Lavine’s son Michael, a cabaret performer, serenaded her with her favorite song, “September Song” by Weill and Anderson, which hails from the 1938 Broadway musical production Knickerbocker Holiday.

Moment Magazine Editor-in-Chief Nadine Epstein spoke about how influential Ms. Lavine and her work have been in mentoring the younger generations. “She brings so much wisdom and perspective to our editorial meetings. It’s an incredible joy to have her on our staff.”

Ms. Lavine does have some advice for others based on her storied history. “Be a lifelong learner, treasure other people. Give generously of your time and effort.” For living a happy life, the recipe includes “Respect. Acceptance. Solving problems in a constructive way and not looking down on other people. A respectful life is an enjoyable life.”

After reaching such a milestone, what’s on the horizon for Ms. Lavine? Her friends and family have already begun planning her 101st birthday celebration, and she’s excited for all the days in between.

Ms. Lavine said, “I am looking forward to all the days leading up to that birthday.”

This story was originally reported by PIX11 News, and has been supplemented with material from an interview completed by Moment Magazine in 2022.