There are a lot of VIPs in the world.  It could be someone who rose to the top of their profession.  Or someone who became big in politics, entertainment or sports.  But, there's probably no person more deserving to be a VIP than someone who's reached their 100th birthday.

It was honor it is for me to be invited to a special birthday party at Juniper Village Senior Living in Meadville. The party was for the oldest resident there.  She reached 100 a few years ago.  She's now 103.  

The guest of honor is Louise Gamble. Many fellow residents and staff showed up for the party to honor Louise on her milestone day.  And what a day it was.  Many of us may never know what it would be like to be 103 and how special it is. The Pennsylvania State Senate issued a proclamation honoring Louise, as did Meadville City Council. The Crawford County Commissioners declared November 26, her birthday, as Louise Gamble Day throughout the entire county. I asked Louise how her day was going.

"Very good.  Very good. Why?  Should it not be?” she answered. 

For Louise, all days are good. She has two children, five grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren. She stays active and has the respect of the Juniper Village staff, including Sherry Barzak, the activities director.

"It's good to see somebody at 103 to be able to walk down stairs on her own in jeans and tennis shoes. Even moccasins. It's really cool to see that kind of stuff,” Sherry said. 

Many of Louise's fellow residents are 20 to 30 years younger than her.  Louise is an inspiration to them. Susan Luty is one of those residents.

"You have to put it in perspective.  Age is inevitable,” said Susan. “You're going to get older so you might as well just get older and don't question it and don't try to fight it.  It's just a number, you know."  

Of course when you turn at least 100 years old, some news reporter is going to ask you this question. What is the secret?  What is the secret to a long and wonderful life?  It's something Louise hasn't really thought about or isn't willing to share.

"Oh I don't know,” she said.  “There's no answer to that.  Everybody's got their own answers."

That's right. Enough questions. It's a party for gosh sakes!  Louise wants me to have fun. She smiled as a giant piece of birthday cake was placed in front of me at our table.

Louise was a resident of Cambridge Springs for many years.  She was a beautician and owned her own shop.  She did not retire from work until her late 70s.