From the moment one enters the Margarita Recreation Center in Temecula, it’s clear this is a different kind of space.
There is a lending library at which residents can swap out children’s and adult books. There is a giant pool that caters to all ages. Most significantly, there is a beautiful mosaic tile artwork centered on the idea that all are welcome — young, old and those with special needs.
The center at 29119 Margarita Road opened in March. A city news release calls the place “groundbreaking.”
“The goal of our community’s new facility is to bring all walks of life together to enjoy a wide range of activities, programs and services that are most important to the quality of life for all our residents,” the release states.
A center brochure states that its activities include the youth advisory council, summer food service, inclusive visual arts and social skills, yoga, Pilates, art and etiquette classes, the management of swim lessons and the freedom of open swim.
It continues that theme of offering something for everybody.
The new center with its many amenities also speaks to the clout of Temecula. With its giant mall, many car dealers and large employers, Temecula has been the economic powerhouse of southwest Riverside County since the 1980s.
Temecula has what it takes to offer such a center. Outside of Temecula, I haven’t seen many other recreational spaces in the area’s other communities that can match what this place has. Money has its advantages.
The day I visited, about 15 kids were happily doing crafts as part of a summer day camp. Another group was doing relay races under the guidance of camp counselors. Classes were also held for preschoolers and babies.
At the beautiful, six-lane, warm-water, outdoor pool that is wheelchair accessible (I’ve never seen that in a pool and it’s certainly a great feature), classes for special needs students were going on.
A city flyer said there are public swim, neighborhood nights and special-needs family nights. Another flyer said classes such as “gentle swim,” “lunch crunch” and “aqua yoga,” were available — something for all age groups.
High Hopes, a recreational and social program for adults with special needs, also hosts events at the center, including dances, karaoke, bowling and movie nights.
Related Articles
Temecula marks 30 year-connection to its sister city in Japan
Deadly Temecula massacre of late 1840s detailed in new book and film
Animal Friends of the Valleys adoption drive gets support from Rocky Kanaka
Family vacation to Turkey is an adventure — and a time to bond
Dangers, benefits of cellphones for kids weighed by Lake Elsinore-area parents
The Little Lending Library, with donations from the Friends of the Temecula Libraries support group, provides books for all ages. Like the physical activities offered at the center, the idea is to make the mental activity of reading more accessible to everyone. One of my all-time favorite children’s books, “The Napping House,” was available the day I was there.
The park’s inclusive spirit is best captured in the “Mosaic Mural” created by local artist Troi Follansbee, who had help from community members, including students from nearby Temecula Elementary School.
It includes a quote from civil rights legend Rosa Parks: “Today’s Mighty Oak is yesterday’s nut that held its ground.” Images of kids and seniors are featured as well as words such as “community” and unity.”
Of the artwork, Yvette Martinez, the city of Temecula’s community services manager, said: “Its overarching theme is celebrating community while highlighting inclusivity, intergenerational connections and the essence of beautiful Temecula and all the MRC has to offer.”
Reach Carl Love at carllove4@yahoo.com.
