It was a dream come true for several seniors last Thursday, July 23, as they were able to travel back in time for a night to remember.
The magic could be felt in the air and heard in the music that guided them through the night at Independence Village’s ‘Somewhere in Time Enchanted Evening.?
Independence Village is a retirement living facility located in the Waterstone subdivision. ‘There’s always something going on here pretty much everyday,? said Stacey Gamblin, the general manager. ‘We have many events.?
This particular event had a Mackinac Island theme to it. Between the hours of 4 and 9 p.m., residents as well as guests from the general public were able to take a horse and carriage ride, purchase Mackinac Island fudge and salt water taffy, enjoy a Grand Hotel style buffet dinner and boogie down to the music of yesteryear.
‘We’re interested in bringing destinations to our residents because they can’t always go somewhere,? said Gamblin.
And what started out as a small, brainstorming idea, turned out to be their largest event yet.
David Thomas and his wife Sandy drove all the way from North Branch after hearing about the event from some of their local friends.
‘We’re certainly happy we made the drive,? said David. ‘There’s good food and good music, what more could you ask for??
Not only were guests impressed with the event coordination but they were overflowing with compliments about the facility itself.
‘The event was great, and it was handled very well by the staff,? said David. ‘Hardware’s one thing but personality’s something else.?
His friend, Rita Rivett of Oxford, chimed in to agree. ‘The workers are so friendly, and they have a great chef.?
‘I think it’s a great thing for people with elderly parents,? said Sandy. ‘If my mother was alive, she would love this.?
Independence Village has been in operation for seven years, and they have continually made an effort to host regular events. Most of these events are open to the public and are often free of charge as was the case for ‘Somewhere In Time.?
‘It’s a casual way for people to come in and see what the community is like, and no one doesn’t like it,? said Gamblin.
The highlight of the night seemed to be the music performed by The Highlights – no irony there. But it’s a tough call as to who came in first, the music or the food.
Independence Village’s Chef Doug Waller prepared an extensive menu to give guests that sincere Grand Hotel feeling.
The next major event planned at Independence Village will be a classic car show and open house on August 8 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information on upcoming events, contact a representative of Independence Village at 248-236-8300. Large scale events are planned sporadically, smaller scale events are happening all the time.