Community center hosts grand opening today

Workers rushed around Newport Coast Community Center Friday morning, putting the finishing touches on the 17,000-square-foot, $8.5 million building. The center will host a grand opening dedication at 10 a.m. today.

“As with any grand opening, everything is up to the last minute,” said Wes Morgan, director of the city’s Recreation and Senior Services Department. “But at least the paint is dry.”

The focal point of the new center is a gymnasium with an indoor-outdoor stage. The stage will be used for outdoor concerts and community events.

The center was open to the public this week for a sneak-peek of some of the 150 classes that will be offered there this fall.

The center also will host an open house with live music and class demonstrations 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday.

— Brianna Bailey