Oxford Mayor Mike Smith gave two proclamations to recognize local organizations at the Oct. 19 City Council meeting.
In his first proclamation, Smith declared Oct. 23 as Greater Oxford Community Foundation Day in recognition of the organization’s 25th anniversary.
The foundation serves the Oxford, Hanover, Milford and Reily areas, all of which fall under the Talawanda School District. It uses donations and grants to fund programs and projects in the area that improve the quality of life for residents.
Since its inception as a nonprofit in 1996, the foundation has given just less than $6 million in grants.
Betsy Hope, executive director of the foundation, thanked Smith and the city for its support during her tenure.
“I don’t think the foundation would be where it is without the city of Oxford and all your help and all your support,” Hope said.
Bob Carmean, president of the foundation’s Board of Directors, said he’s looking to the future of the organization.
“As we are celebrating our 25th anniversary, we’re looking forward to the next 125 years here in Oxford,” Carmean said.
Smith also gave a proclamation declaring Oct. 29 as Oxford Community Arts Center (OCAC) Day. OCAC, a nonprofit organization that promotes community arts, has hosted more than 150,000 patrons of all ages since being established 20 years ago.
OCAC will host a 20th Anniversary Celebration of the Arts in Oxford from 6-9 p.m., Oct. 29, to commemorate its inception. The event, which will be held outdoors, will feature music, food trucks, presentations and more.
Kim Peterka, president of the Arts Center’s Board of Trustees, represented the center at the meeting. She thanked both city officials and the community members who support the arts in Oxford.
“We wouldn’t exist without the Oxford community and all of the volunteers and artists that make us what we are,” Peterka said. “We, just like the Community Foundation, are looking forward to a very, very strong future.”
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City Council will meet again at 7:30 p.m., on Tuesday, Nov. 2, in the Oxford Courthouse.
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