GRAND ISLAND, Neb. (KSNB) – Tabitha Senior Living Community celebrated Oktoberfest on Friday with music, brats and brews.

“Senior living is so much fun and it is so much more than what people think about,” said Tonya Van Pelt, campus administrator. “It’s so important to stay active for our minds and bodies, have fun and just live with a purpose in mind and stay active.”

Artist Rascal Martinez kicked off the afternoon event with an hour-long performance, and residents enjoyed pretzels and brats along with a variety of beers, some of which went with the Oktoberfest theme.

“I love music and it’s pretty good,” said Tabitha resident Kathleen. “It’s just nice to have happy people around you.”

Van Pelt said organizing these types of events is important for engagement with residents.

“It helps prevent memory loss and Alzheimer’s disease, it helps a whole host of things to keep our bodies healthy,” says Van Pelt.

The Tabitha location has been open for almost two years and according to Van Pelt, the building offers them the opportunity to offer fun events.

“This facility is so beautiful and we are so honored to be part of this community,” said Van Pelt. “It’s just a beautiful environment and a place that we can offer our seniors.”

This isn’t the only event that brings the community together at Tabitha; they recently took second place in the float competition during the Harvest of Harmony parade.

“It was a lot of fun to work together as a community on a project and ultimately see the results,” said Van Pelt. “Their smile is worth everything, that’s why we do what we do, right? It’s just to serve our seniors who paved the way for us and I think it holds a special place in our hearts.”

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