Senior center's grand opening set

The long-awaited grand opening of the Carson City Senior Citizens Center's expansion is Thursday.

Work on the $2.5 million project started in May 2003, and is ahead of its 16-month construction schedule. The expansion added more than 14,000 square feet, putting the total space at 31,000 square feet.

The celebration will include tours beginning at 10 a.m., grand opening ceremony at 11:15 a.m., prime rib lunch at 11:30 a.m., color guard presentation by the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps, an artists' display and sale, and a used costume-jewelry sale.

"The building is fabulous. People will see everything put together," said Janice McIntosh, executive director.

The expansion is on a portion of 4.48 acres donated by the Bureau of Land Management. Former Sen. Richard Bryan, D-Nev., helped the city get the land for use for senior services. The project also includes more parking for the center.

The buildings are connected with a hallway. A few stairs will be on one side and a ramp for the disabled on the other. The hallway leads to a courtyard with a sitting area and fountain. It also includes a brick memorial area in honor of late Supervisor Jon Plank.

"We will have all our regular activities going on as well," said McIntosh. "Then Friday, we'll have the gala."

The Kiwanis Club, which has been a major force in the senior center, will host a reception with wine and cheese tasting from 5:30-6:30 p.m. in the Kiwanis Lounge.

There will be a dance with the Tahoe Dance Band from 6:30-9:30 p.m.

"I think it will be really great and a treat for everybody."

If you go:

What: Carson City Senior Citizens Center grand opening

When: Thursday at 11:15 a.m.; tours begin at 10 a.m.

Where: 911 Beverly Drive

Call: 883-0703

What: Gala dance

When: 6:30-9:30 p.m. Friday; wine and cheese tasting from 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Call: 883-0703

Contact Rhonda Costa-Landers at rcosta-landers@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1223.