Sparr Heights Expands Services

Twirling their grass skirts and poi balls, members of the Keiki O Ka Aina hula-dancing group danced to a different beat during their performance at Saturday morning’s Sparr Heights Community Center Grand Re-opening Celebration.

The newly renovated center at 1613 Glencoe Way is home to the Glendale Parks and Recreation Department senior lunch program, pool tournament and various classes, including one taught by Keiki instructor Liz Espinoza.

“This was the first time around this summer offering classes at Sparr,” said Pam Cook, Glendale recreation and community services coordinator.

The Grand Re-opening Celebration showcased the transition Sparr Heights is making from a senior center to a community center, Cook said.

“What we’re doing is-just in the times that they [seniors] are not there-bringing in other programs. I think the community around there will support these classes, they just need to be made aware of it,” she said.

Cook was happy to introduce seniors to the instructors Saturday morning.

“We don’t want seniors to feel that they’re being displaced,” she said. “This is my way of easing it in there so that they feel comfortable with that we’re bringing in.”

Espinoza’s Hawaiian dance class for children is only one currently underway at the center. While not enough students signed up for an acrobatics class, Cook said children’s fencing and karate lessons, which were moved from Dunsmore Park, are packed.

Ten-week karate and fencing lessons cost $85, 10-week Hawaiian dance classes cost $80 and two-hour swing and salsa dance workshops cost $18.

“We will be offering all these classes and more at Sparr in our fall session,” she said, adding that she hopes to include children’s art and Spanish language classes for the session starting Sept. 20. “With Fremont [Elementary School] across the street it’s a natural place to offer after-school programs.”

For more information, contact Cook at 548-3718 or call the registration office at 548-2184. A complete listing of fall classes will be available in the department’s fall Leisure Guide, which can be ordered by calling 548-4080, ext. 5600, or viewed online at parks.ci.glendale.ca.us.