Oracle – The Oracle Community Center is a non-profit corporation which promotes and sponsors programs that improve and maintain the health and welfare of the community. It also oversees maintenance and use of its facilities, in the best interest of the residents of Oracle and adjacent areas. All funds for insurance, water, electricity, phone, gas, trash and ongoing maintenance come from hall rentals, membership dues and fundraisers.
In working hard to make the Center available to all, the OCC managed to get a new roof, new tile and an upgrade to the ladies restroom in 2013, as well as clearing out many items that were simply taking up space. Chuck did a great job on the landscaping and continues to work with others to make our center the best looking yet.
This year, the OCC plans to repair the ceiling, as well as to install new lighting in the building. Donations can be designated for this purpose.
The Oracle Community Center (OCC), located at 685 E. American Ave. in Oracle, has a host of on-going activities for those who are of a social bent or a crafty inclination. In addition to the regularly scheduled activities, there are special events planned each month, usually in celebration of the holidays.
Every third Saturday, the OCC holds a Park ‘n’ Swap event. Browsing is free. If you want to set up and sell, the cost is $5.
Every Monday, at noon potluck lunch is held, with an entrée provided by the Center, which is open to all. Bring a dish or donation of $4 for members or $5 for guests.
The needlework group still meets on Wednesdays from 1:30 pm -3:30 pm. You may bring your own handwork project or join the OCC’s project. Everyone is welcome to attend this social gathering where tea, coffee and a sweet treat is served. Projects include sewing, knitting, crochet, and crafts. For more information, contact Susie at 896-2935.
Join members for a friendly game of Bridge on Tuesdays, from 12:30 pm – 4 pm. Refreshments will be served. Call Mary McClure at 896-2604, if interested.
Akido, a Japanese martial art, is taught on Tuesdays, from 4 pm – 6 pm. Call Laurel Wilson at 408-781-2241
Feb. 14, Valentine’s Day this year is on a Friday, so the restaurant scene is going to be crazy. Why not avoid the hassle and enjoy a relaxed, fun-filled spaghetti dinner at the Center, as well as some games, door prizes and raffles? At $10 per person, that’s a deal that can’t be beat.
The Oaks Festival, scheduled for Sat., Apr. 26, is being planned with meetings and lots of new ideas to make it the best. The theme this year is “Horsin’ Around in Oracle.” What does that mean? Well, lots of horses, of course. Oracle loves horses, but, you can “horse” around on a bike, quad or even your own two feet, taking a ride, a hike or just come in and horse around at fine Oracle eateries or shopping venues.
If you have an idea for a parade entry, get a form from the website and get going. Kate Horton is working on a website, which should be up and running soon, to download forms for the Oaks Festival As time goes on, the Center will include information about other events, activities and general news. The website is www.oaksfestoracle.com
The Oracle Community Center is seeking items for the silent auction as well as participants, volunteers, floats, marching band and ideas from you, to make the Oaks Festival a celebration to remember. To donate items for the auction, contact Shirley at 520-959-2722 or Chuck at chuckwalla@theriver.com.
Planning your own event? If you need space for a graduation or birthday party,wedding reception or other occasion, call Shirley at 896-9326 and leave a message. A Rental Manager is being sought for the OCC. If you know someone up for the challenge, call Shirley and let her know. Fees for renting the center are $275 per day for Fridays or Saturday, $175 per day from Sunday – Thursday, or $35 per hour for up to four hours.
Lastly, the Oracle Community Center would like you to know that the cider press has still not been sold, and asks you to pass the word that it can be seen at the Dry River Trading Co. on American Avenue, next to the Rancho Robles entry.