Fifty years ago, a small group of locals in Newman decided that growing older didn’t mean growing apart. The Orestimba 50+ Club was born in 1975, founded with a simple yet ambitious goal: to offer those aged 50 and up the chance to stay active, informed, and—most importantly—connected. Half a century later, the club marked its golden anniversary with a lively celebration featuring tacos, quesadillas, and the ever-popular pastime of Bingo.
It all started in the spring of 1975 when Paula Davis and other early organizers envisioned a space where seniors could come together for social, educational, and recreational activities. “She hoped the club would host tours, guest speakers, and a variety of programs for its members,” reads the club’s history, describing Davis’ dream. That dream quickly took shape. The first meeting, led by Davis as temporary chairman, drew 60 attendees, with charter members selecting their officers: Enos Tosta as president, Helen Machado as vice president, Helen Moe as secretary, Richard Smith as treasurer, and Manuel Mattos as sergeant-at-arms. Dues were set at a mere 25 cents per month, and the twice-monthly meetings became a cornerstone of the club’s identity.
Over the years, the Orestimba 50+ Club expanded its membership from the Newman Crows Landing Unified School District to include the entire Westside. It grew, thrived, and adapted to the changing times, peaking at an impressive 160 members who routinely embarked on trips to casinos and regional destinations. “Going to the casinos were really popular trips,” said Loveada Fresquez, a member for the past eight years and its former president. Fresquez served in the role with distinction, guiding the club through challenges like the pandemic, which temporarily halted its outings. Now, the trips are starting to return—it’s just a matter of lining up affordable transportation.
Today, the club is smaller but still mighty, boasting about 40 regular members who gather twice a month at the L.J. Newman building for potluck lunches, Bingo, and socializing. Members also enjoy a monthly outing to local restaurants. Fresquez remains passionate about the club’s mission: “We want the seniors to know that there is something to do here,” she said.
Barbara and David Tosta, second-generation members, embody the club’s enduring legacy. Barbara’s father, Enos Tosta, was the club’s very first president. “They realized it was a great organization and worked to keep it going,” Fresquez said, praising the efforts of children of original members who’ve carried the torch forward.
Special events like holiday parties and a recent sock hop complete with root beer floats add extra joy to the calendar. For the Orestimba 50+ Club, the last fifty years have been about more than meetings and meals. It’s about creating a community where seniors can laugh, learn, and continue building connections that stand the test of time.
Anyone interested in joining the club can contact Loveada Frequez at (209) 417-9754 for more information.
