Kids, Dignitaries Tour Facilities at Boys & Girls Club 'Fun Day'

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On Saturday, Dec. 14, Menifee's new Boys and Girls Club hosted its "Family Fun Day" -- an open house party complete with free bounce houses, balloons, popcorn and cotton candy.

Many local parents arrived with their kids, who quickly discovered a game room complete with air hockey and ping pong tables, a playground and ball courts. Moms and dads inquired about membership sign-ups and the many programs that will be offered in early 2014.

A Riverside County Sheriff's deputy and his patrol car were on display for the young visitors, while many dignitaries toured the campus, including Riverside County Supervisor Marion Ashley, Menifee Mayor Scott Mann, Councilman John Denver, Menifee USD School Board members Robert O'Donnell and Jerry Bowman, Menifee USD Superintendent Steve Kennedy, and Romoland School Board member Sandra Tusant.

"The kids really had a lot of fun today," said Bill Zimmerman, a member of the Club's Board of Directors. "We are fortunate to have this facility, and look forward to creating a safe and enjoyable atmosphere for Menifee's youth."

The Club's Board of Directors is working hard to finalize the details for staffing and transportation in order to begin offering before/after school programs, tutoring, sports leagues and themed camps.

The Club is accepting donations of items to help furnish the facility. Last weekend, Councilman Tom Fuhrman delivered a foosball and air hockey table for the game room. Two ping pong tables were donated by the Sun City Civic Association. The club is seeking donations of children's books, video game consoles, musical instruments and art supplies. The facility also lacks a refrigerator and pool tables.

The Boys & Girls Club of Menifee Valley is a 501c3 non-profit organization. It is based in the former Menifee Elementary School at 26301 Garbani Road. More information can be found at the Club's website: www.menifeebgc.org