Manager Leah Murphy, of the Broderick/Bryte Community Center, is anxiously awaiting the Grand Opening. Photo by Michele Townsend

WEST SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - At long last the Broderick/Bryte Community Center is going to finally open. Rhonda Morningstar Pope Florez and the Buena Vista Rancheria Me-Wuk Indian Tribe have been working non-stop since December 2022 to restore the former Bryte VFW, located on Lisbon St., into a beautiful Community Center.

After a rollercoaster of permit issues with the City of West Sacramento and countless pleas and presentations to the City Council, inspections are finally underway. According to Rhonda, Chairwoman of Buena Vista, the inspection for the electric and the inspection for the HVAC have finally taken place and the inspection for the ADA (American Disabilities Act) and all of the “nit-picky stuff that the city was complaining about” is scheduled for Tuesday, December 26, 2023.

The building has been beautifully restored with black and white Italian marble, rod iron, new appliances in the kitchen (except the city took out the stove), an enlarged and updated stage with lighting and a sound booth. Rhonda said they really tried to restore it in the spirit of Jordan Pappy Ramos, the original owner from when it was a movie theater and community center.

“A Community Center in the North side is long overdue, and this will be a community hub for everyone”, said Rhonda Florez. She said that she wants to recognize Pappy Ramos and Henry Rodriguez who inspired the community spirit and helped their community be a better place.

Rhonda said that they are planning tutoring, movie night, board games, bingo nights, talent and open mic nights. In addition, they are planning on holding dances, like father/daughter dance. They have a pool table, a juke box, vending machines, and TVs in the bar area. The hall will be available for rental with the option of using the bar. “We are looking forward to baby showers and family reunions and other events filling these walls again,” said Rhonda.

Grand Opening for the Broderick/Bryte Community Center is scheduled for Saturday, January 27, 2024, 12 noon until 4 PM. Everyone is welcome.