Woman turning 103 says mixing in ‘a little bit of bad’ with the good is key to longevity

People who know Verna Platner say she’s very sharp, funny and loves attention. (Source: KPHO)
Published: Feb. 8, 2024 at 11:23 AM EST

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (KPHO/Gray News) – A woman turning 103 was surprised by how many friends she has when she saw how many showed up to celebrate her special day.

People who know Verna Platner say she’s very sharp, funny and loves attention.

At first, Platner said she didn’t think much of her age but started to embrace it over the past several days with family and friends.

She said her secret to longevity is living in moderation.

“A little bit of good, a little bit of bad goes pretty well together,” Platner said.

The 103-year-old went to Arizona State University, which was known then as Arizona State College at Tempe.

She went on to teach elementary school, got married and had two children.