The Ocean City Community Center, comprised of the Free Public Library, Arts Center, Senior Center, Historical Museum and Aquatic and Fitness Center will offer activities for everyone this winter.
Michel Pedicin and the South Jersey Jazz Society will host biweekly programs on Jazz at 2 p.m. in the Public Library. The series kicks off with “Four Bassists at Play” on Jan. 24.
The work of Carla Migliaccio is on display at the Arts Center this month. The Ocean City Arts Center holds classes in a variety of subjects from fine arts to Tai Chi. The center can be reached by phone at (609) 399-7628.
The Senior Center is open from 8:30 to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Visitors have a place to chat, play cards, or participate in exercise programs. Luncheon is available Monday through Friday. A $2 donation is asked for those who can afford it. Luncheon is free for those who can’t.
The Historical Museum is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Volunteers are on hand to guide visitors through the unique artifacts on display. The museum offers a lecture series on Ocean City history. The public may bring in their antiques for evaluation by experts for a fee during appraisal programs. For more information on Historical Museum activities call (609) 399-1801.
In addition to a 25 meter pool and exercise facilities, the Aquatic and Fitness Center offers fitness programs like yoga and weight training. Call (609) 398-6900 for information.
Other upcoming events at the Community Center and in the local area include:
- Jan. 9 – The Miss New Jersey Outstanding Teen Pageant: held at Millville Senior High School at 7 p.m. There will be 2 contestants from Ocean City: Victoria Matt and Cassidy Diamond. The winner performs at the Miss New Jersey Pageant held at the Music Pier in June. The theme this year is “On Broadway.” Tickets are $35, available at the door or by contacting Joan Cooper, disneyqueen54@hotmail.com. Miss New Jersey, Lindsey Giannini and Miss New Jersey’s Outstanding Teen, Shereen Pimental, will host the Pageant.
- Jan. 9 — Afternoon Movies: featuring “Minions” at 2 p.m. at the Community Center (17th and Simpson Ave.)
- Jan. 11 — Classic Film Night: featuring “Big Night” at 6 p.m. at the Community Center (17th and Simpson Ave.)
- Jan. 16 — Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday Celebration: held at Hughes Performing Arts Center, Ocean City High School (6th and Atlantic Ave.) It will feature Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream Speech” at 1 p.m. A “Soul Food” Dinner immediately follows the ceremony.
- Jan. 18 — Day of Service: honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Volunteers meet at 9 a.m. at the Senior Center (18th and Simpson Ave.)
- Jan. 23 — Afternoon Movies: featuring “Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation” at 2 p.m. at the Community Center (17th and Simpson Ave.)
- Jan. 24 — “Four Bassists at Play”: Andy Lalasis and three other musicians will play original and inspiring music on acoustic, electric and synthesized instruments at 2 p.m. at the Community Center.
- Jan. 30 – National Croissant Day Cooking Class: 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. in the Senior Room kitchen at the Community Center ( 17th and Simpson Ave.)
- March 12 — Third Annual Mr. Mature America Pageant: talent pageant for men 55 years of age and older. Contestants compete in talent, interview and poise categories. Event opens with a dance routine choreographed by Jessica Albertson. Tickets are $10. To enter contest or purchase tickets, call (609) 399-6111 or email msoifer@hotmail.com.
