Written by Rima Runtzel
OAKHURST – The committee of the Elegant Auction to benefit the Oakhurst Community Park is seeking volunteers to assist in the planning of its 30th annual gala event, which takes place on Saturday, May 2, at the Tenaya Lodge in Fish Camp.
The Elegant Auction provides 100% of the funding for the equipment, maintenance, and upgrades to our local Community Park.
Without funding from any state or county sources, the Oakhurst Community Park was a vision that became a reality solely through the contributions of residents and businesses in our mountain area communities and the support of out-of-area businesses.
Thirty years ago, the Oakhurst Community Park Committee held its first Elegant Auction to raise money to pay for the bridge across the Fresno River, sprinkler systems and the grand gazebo. The park opened Aug. 8, 1987 with a celebration that included bands and politicians, skydivers and clowns, ribbons and flags and hundreds of community residents.
The park has become a vital part of our community for all ages to enjoy, a place for families to unite, and a place for community gatherings. Today, the park is home to many area events that provide entertainment for locals and bring travelers to the area, including the Oakhurst Fall Festival, Sierra Tel Patriot Day, Yosemite Festival and many more.
None of this would be possible without the volunteers who coordinate the annual Elegant Auction. After 30 years of service, many of those volunteers have retired from the committee and some new and exciting plans are being made with fresh ideas. The committee is seeking additional new members who are interested in making a difference in their community by assisting with various tasks related to the planning and production of this year’s event.
“Since I have become the president of the Park Committee, I get to hear great stories about so many people’s experiences with the park over the years,” said Andrew Pence, “They often ask what they can do to help. This is it. Joining this committee is the single biggest difference you can make for our park.”
For more information about the Elegant Auction, to purchase tickets, or to find out how you can join the committee, contact Andrew Pence, 559.658.7611 Ext. 203, email andrew.pence@wjbradley.com or visit www.Facebook.com/ElegantAuction.
