Moyer Recreational Center, named for Gary Moyer, vice president of development for The Villages, opened following a ribbon cutting ceremony on Tuesday morning.
Prior to cutting the ribbon Gary Lester, vice president of community pelations, introduced Moyer describing him as “The unsung hero of this development.”
Moyer briefly addressed the crowd.
“I want to thank the Villages and the Morse family. This is very humbling,” Moyer said.
He noted that the Village of Pine Ridge is about two-thirds built out and complimented the cooperation of Fruitland Park. He thanked Tracy Mathews and her design team for the beautiful center.
He concluded, “This is a wonderful honor for me and my family.”
Following the ribbon-cutting, the crowd moved inside to explore the building and the future activities that will happen at the center. There is a wide range of activities from Three-Hand Pinochle to Pilates. The pool is open now all lifestyle activities will start Oct. 1.
Also opening Oct. 1 is the Fruitland Park Police substation located in the center.
Fruitland Park Police Chief Michael Fewless was on hand to meet people and talk about the substation.
“Two sergeants will be assigned to this station; this will be their landing area to do paperwork and meet with Villagers who have concerns or want to pass on information,” he said.
Volunteers will also help staff the station. Volunteers will greet visitors and answer phones. If you are interested in finding out more about being a volunteer, you can contact Karen McKillips, administrative assistant to the chief at 352-360-6655 or kmckillips@fruitlandpark.org.
Jean and Bill Klinkenberg were very enthusiastic about the new center.
“We feel so privileged to be part of this. Being at this opening reminds me how blessed we are to live in The Villages,” said Jean. “I am just full of gratitude right now. It is easy to get caught up in the ‘pool talk’ about what is wrong in The Villages. It is nice to come to a center opening and remember what is so right about living here.”
Neighbors were also meeting neighbors. Steve and June Marcotte, Joe and Terri Webb and Delia and David Treffer started chatting poolside and discovered they all live within about a block of each other in Pine Ridge. All having moved the Villages in the last year, they are glad to have a community spot to meet.
“This center is wonderful. Typical of the Villages, well planned and beautiful,” Marcotte said.
