Westbury resident Maria Ciardullo will celebrate her 100th birthday on March 6. Maria was born in 1908 to Francesco and Francesca Buffalino of Westbury and at the age of five returned to her parents' native Naples, Italy but always dreamed of returning to the United States.

In 1928, at the age of 20, Maria's dream came true and she moved back to New York. Shortly after, Maria met Domenic Ciardullo, whom she married on June 9, 1929. The couple soon built their dream home in Westbury and raised five children, Michael, Frank, Madeline, Frances and Gina. The Ciardullos were married 55 years when Domenic passed away on March 18, 1984.

Maria, who currently has 13 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild, still resides in her Westbury home, along with a caretaker. She enjoys cooking and baking for her family and also enjoys crocheting.

A family celebration honoring Maria and this milestone birthday was held March 2 at Westbury Manor.