CULLMAN, Ala– The Hofbräuhaus was packed as hundreds of seniors piled in for a day of laidback Oktoberfest celebration on Friday, Sept 29, 2023. Cullman County Commission on Aging and Donald E. Green Active Adult Center staff teamed up to ensure the event went off without a hitch, and to celebrate the largest turnout for an Oktoberfest Senior Day since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Seniors enjoyed the dancing talents of Miss Oktoberfest representatives and Miss Senior Alabama representatives as they tapped and twirled to polka classics, with elbows flapping as several local seniors hit the dance floor for a fast rendition of the chicken dance.
Next on the entertainment agenda was lunch, which was a collaborative effort by the full-time senior center managers and sponsored by Drinkard Development, Aveanna Healthcare, Pannell Insurance Agency and Gentiva Hospice.
After everyone was full and docile from the meal, the heat was cranked up with competitive rounds of bingo called by 2023 Burgermeister Dale Greer. With cash prizes and gift cards sponsored by Visiting Angels on the line, seniors anxiously checked their cards and weren’t shy to shout “BINGO!”
Commission on Aging Director Stephanie Lawson said she always looks forward to when the “Stephanies,” herself and Stephanie Neal of the Active Adult Center, get to come together to make an impact on their senior communities.
“It’s always great to partner with Stephanie Neal and the Active Adult Center for Oktoberfest Senior Day! We had the largest turnout this year since returning from Covid. I think a good estimate would be around 350 seniors who showed up for this year’s event!” Lawson exclaimed.
Lawson also took a minute to brag on the true teamwork the event takes, noting the collaborative efforts of the City of Cullman, Cullman Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism and all the volunteers who work every major event to “make the magic happen” for area seniors.
“2023 Burgermeister Dale Greer did a phenomenal job. We truly appreciate the City of Cullman, Cullman city parks and recreation and everyone who puts in all the hard work setting up to make this day happen,” she said. “I appreciate my COA staff and all the volunteers who come out to help us serve!”
If you’re 55 and older and you missed this awesome event, don’t worry! The next Senior Day on the books is Oct. 11, Senior Day at the Cullman County Fair. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/coacullman.
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