Going strong for 55 years

Only a few recreation centres have survived the test of time and harsh economic periods, and Roosevelt Recreation Centre is one of them, having celebrated its 55th anniversary on 31 October.
The centre’s facility manager, Ina Horstink, said the centre is glad to have reached this milestone as well as having helped and supported members who are the heart of the centre.
“We’ve always been a strong centre, with 37 groups who always stay after joining but, unfortunately, for now we don’t have space for other groups. At the moment we have 1 375 members which is quite a lot for a centre,” said Horstink.
“Our gymnastics group has 450 members which is the biggest group. We also have ongoing programmes that people can feel free to enquire about joining.”
Horstink said the craft class at the centre is close to her heart as she teaches this group. The class has 24 members who are mostly elderly citizens and they make mosaics and decoupage.
“In the new year, we have a Zumba [class] and cake decorating guild who will be part of the centre. All groups have year-end functions and competitions such as the gymnastics year-end competition. All the children belonging to the gymnastics clubs do their routines in a competition and get awarded.
“The Franklin Players will also host the Aladdin and the lamp [production] from 18 November over alternate days.”