Center seen as step in revitalization

City officials and community representatives called the opening of the Downtown Community Center a big step in the effort to revitalize downtown. "The community center is a great place for after-school programs for children and to serve the growing senior population. It is a focal point for all ages to come together," said Rep Loretta Sanchez, D-Santa Ana. "We need more of these. I'd like to get one on the west side of town." A West Anaheim community center also is being pushed by residents in the area. "This is the culmination of about IS to 20 years of effort. The groups need a place to meet and pull the community together," said Christopher Jarvi , city community services director. "This building is the first step. The YMCA, the Boys & Girls Club and the cultural arts buildings will be smaller as a result of the full support of the downtown complex." "This is great for the kids. We've been waiting a long time for this Now, we are able to provide more services in one centralized area," said Moses Menchaca, community services supervisor. "The community turned out today, (the opening) was well supported. The center will be better supported than we ever imagined," said Ed Kostiuk, head of the youth programs. Councilwoman Shirley McCracken called the center part of the revitalization of Anaheim. "Downtown Anaheim has changed. We have a real community that young professionals and young families want to live in. The long-range plan is to have (a community center) in West Anaheim." "It will add energy and life and activity to the downtown area," Mayor Tom Daly agreed. "It is so beautiful it will attract residents from throughout Anaheim,. We have accomplished the goal of making a facility that is warm, comfortable and inviting." "A newer building has a new atmosphere, a new feeling," said Patty Davis, the English as a Second Languague instructor. "The whole purpose of the community center is to provide a place for citizens to gather and to celebrate," Elisa Stipkovitch, community development director. "This is spectacular. It's so nice to see so many people of all ages happy," said Janis Heckel, the grand opening coordinator. The first annual Orange County Senior Games is an event for men and women age 50 and over to promote lifelong health and physical fitness. The event features 14 different sports to be held at several locations throughout the South Orange County area. Competition is open to all active and health-minded seniors. The Games are affiliated with the California State Senior Games Foundation.