State-of-Art Milken Recreation Center Is Set to Open

The state-of-the-art Ferne Milken Youth & Sports Complex at the West Valley Jewish Community Center will be dedicated in opening ceremonies Sunday.

The new $4.5-million complex, which will offer activities for children and adults, features a 12,000-square-foot gymnasium, a 3,000-square-foot multipurpose room, a 2,000-square-foot teen center and a permanent display called the “Jewish Sports Hall of Fame.”

“This is a rebirth for the center,” said director Ronda Wilkin. “It’s definitely what the community needs. We have so many young families moving to the West Valley and the Conejo Valley. This is a way to address their needs and wants.”

The Gerry and George Gregory and Family Gymnasium has a tournament-size basketball court overlaying two regular-size courts or three volleyball courts. Bleachers will seat 500 for games or 800 when used as an auditorium.

Rita’s Room, the multipurpose space named after the late community leader Rita Reznikoff, will be used for classes for all ages. The Farber Family Teen Center includes a lounge, game area, study space and even a pizza-warming oven.

Former Dodger Manager Tommy Lasorda, California’s First Lady Sharon Davis and NFL Hall of Famer Ron Mix will be among the speakers at a 1 p.m. dedication ceremony.

A grand opening celebration is planned from 2 to 5 p.m., with several athletes scheduled to sign autographs, including new Dodger Shawn Green, Olympic champion Mark Spitz and soccer icon Alexi Lalas.

The new complex on the Bernard Milken Jewish Community Campus is located at 22622 Vanowen St., West Hills.

Free opening day parking is available at the northwest end of Fallbrook Mall, with a free shuttle running continually between the lot and the campus.

For more information, call (818) 464-3300.