If rain is a sign of blessing, then Hobby Oasis will have it in buckets. As the rain began to pour on Thursday morning, members of the Stanley community gathered in enthusiastic support as Hobby Oasis officially opened its doors at 114 South Broadway in Stanley. The 10 a.m. ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by business leaders, customers, friends and family was a celebration of creativity and community spirit marking a significant moment for gaming enthusiasts. Hobby Oasis promises to be a go-to destination for community members and gaming enthusiasts alike. Chamber Treasurer Debbie Haas of Debbie’s on Broadway welcomed attendees and introduced Chamber President Ron Haas, who expressed his excitement for the store’s arrival, highlighting its role in supporting local creativity and offering a space for people of all ages to explore their passions. Vice President Lacey Granger added her excitement that the business is utilizing a vacant building on the main street. “This is an excellent example of entrepreneurs finding a little niche,” said Charlie Walker from the Chippewa Economic Development Corporation. “For economic development, it’s amazing,” he added noting that the Hobby Oasis provides the young people in the community with a convenient social place that fosters a sense of belonging. Commenting on the building’s long period of vacancy and it’s location across from the popular Kwik Trip, he mentioned, “Nobody can compete with Kwik Trip. I think you found a way to do it.”
The opening of Hobby Oasis marks a new chapter for the Stanley community, promising to be a vibrant and inspiring space for hobbyists of all kinds. The store’s founders, brothers Brady and Cody Junker expressed their gratitude for the community’s warm welcome and their excitement about contributing to the local creative landscape. “We’ve been really excited. We put a lot of work in,” said Brady as he expressed his thanks to their friends and family for their help. “We’re excited to open up.”
Cody mentioned that while playing video games at home is fun, they are excited to have a place where people can play and still have face to face interaction with their friends as Hobby Oasis will be a place where people can “come in and hang out.”
“We’re excited to bring that aspect to the community,” said Cody.
Hobby Oasis is open from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday and has a gaming area with tv screens where patrons can use PS5, XBOX, or Nintendo Switch gaming systems for $10 for two hours with monthly memberships also available. Board games are $5 per game and decks are $5 to rent. Coin operated arcade games range from $.25 to $1.00 per game or player. Party Packages are available at $120 to rent the venue for two hours of unlimited play.
For more information about Hobby Oasis, including store hours and upcoming events,  call 715-709-0038 or follow on Facebook at The Hobby Oasis.