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The Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center of Augusta, Ga., opened in early August after seven years of planning and developing the 100,000-square-foot facility.
Over 9,000 guests visited on opening day, Aug. 6, entertained by a Salvation Army band in the impressive Franklynn Hall Arts and Worship Center, autograph signings by Augusta Green Jackets team members, and even free massages. The day ended with a performance by local band Cowboy Mouth and a fireworks show timed to traditional Salvation Army brass band music. In the first full day of operation, 1,004 memberships were sold representing 2,374 members.
“Our grand opening far exceeded my expectations,” said Captain Todd Mason, Kroc Center and area administrator. “After planning for so long and after our team had put so much work and heart into this project since its beginning, it was an amazing feeling and a beautiful sight to behold. It was fun, it was filled with laughter, learning and depth and with over 9,000 guests coming onto the campus that day, my heart was blessed.”
The massive structure, which sits on 17 acres in historic Harrisburg, boasts a spectacular pool and water slide, gymnasiums and fitness centers, recreational rooms for kids and adults, an amphitheater and banquet hall. It provides facilities, programs and services that encourage positive life-changing experiences for children and adults, strengthen families, and enrich the lives of seniors.
“I was reminded over and over again of this wonderful gift from Joan Kroc and the blessing the Lord has bestowed upon the greater Augusta area because of that gift,” Mason said.
From blog.salvationarmy.usa
