PRAIRIE CITY — “Greater” and “community.”

Two words in the Greater Prairie City Community Association’s own name express its mission for the town of Prairie City.

On top of that, the nonprofit group has a glorious, historic structure in the center of town for use as a gathering spot.

The GPCCA has been active in one form or another for more than 20 years, with an aim to support and encourage community activities and involvement.

But it was the acquisition of the former United Methodist Church at a transition ceremony in October 2011 that really gave the group a boost — and a “home.”

One might say that the building was “born again” for the town.

Now known as the Prairie City Community Center, the facility is frequently used during major celebrations such as the Fourth of July, Christmas on the Prairie, Fiber Fest, and community yard sales and potlucks.

In recent months, it’s been alive with increased activity — a Veterans Day dinner for a student senior project, free live music concerts and a spring break family movie night. It was the site for the Prairie City Ranger District’s inaugural Rangeland Management Banquet in February, Prairie City High School’s winter formal in March, and will again be the location for this year’s Prairie City FFA Alumni Banquet.

The center is available to rent — both for private and public events. For information on rental fees, visit gpcca.net.

Next up on the center’s schedule is the GPCCA’s second annual Taco Night on Saturday, May 4, with Taco Company of John Day providing all the eats.

The fundraiser supports improvements and maintenance of the building. Recent upgrades included a new kitchen, bathroom, stage curtain and carpet, sound systems, wifi coverage and much more.

According to GPCCA Treasurer Tracy Mund, they’ll soon be getting new windows, electrical updates and an outdoor deck, all thanks to grant funding. And, she added, thanks to a group member’s fundraiser, there will soon be permanent exterior lighting which can be changed for various holidays, events or the school’s colors.

Mund said they’re grateful for donations and grants, which help keep the facility updated and operational.

“The building is well over 100 years old, and we know how important it is to many in the community. It is a focal point in our town and we just want everyone to be able to enjoy it and have events to bring people together,” Mund said.

History

The property ended up in the GPCCA’s hands when the once-lively church became inactive following years of a dwindling congregation.

The local Methodist Church began its ministry in the Prairie City area 150 years ago at a camp meeting on Pine Creek in 1874. That same year, the present building was erected where Blue Mountain Care Center is located today. In 1885, it was moved a couple of blocks away to Sixth and Kilbourne streets, and then to its current location at the south end of City Park.

The stately structure, with Strawberry Mountain as a backdrop, is a hard-to-miss landmark in the heart of town.

Vice President Cindy Brusch said that it gives people a place to gather without going out of town which, along with the reasonable rental rates, is among the positive feedback they get from folks who’ve used it.

Secretary Marie Bryant added, “It’s wonderful to be part of something that brings joy to the community.”

Other group members are Jef Bryant who handles IT needs, Dan Duey is in charge of audiovisual equipment and Jerry Galland is the manager/caretaker.

Volunteers include Dennis Lynch, Colin and Gail Kolb, Karen Jacobs, Trish Lindaman, Donna Becker, Matt Goodwin, and Chris and Rebecca Camarena.

Bloom, co-president with Sharon Fritsch, said she believes the center is valuable to the community because it upholds existing traditions, while also initiating new ones.

“I hope these traditions provide excitement for everyone. By fostering gatherings, the community center cultivates camaraderie among all, providing an important opportunity for connection and unity,” Bloom said.

For more information about the group or to get involved, call 541-306-2334, email gpccaoffice@gmail.com, or visit Greater Prairie City Community Association at gpcca.net or on Facebook.

Taco Feed

When: Saturday, May 4

Where: Prairie City Community Center

Time: To-go orders, 4:30-5:30 p.m.; dine-in, 6-9 p.m.

Cost: $5-10 for to-go orders, or $12 for all-you-can-eat dine-in or $5 per taco with sides.

Menu: Beef, chicken and pork tacos. (Margaritas, beer and sodas will be sold separately.)

Diners can pay at the door or in advance. Call 541-306-2334 or email gpccaoffice@gmail.com.

There will also be a gift basket raffle.