Seniors and mayor meet to discuss possible NLV center

Diana Sahagun

Wednesday, April 19, 2000 | 11:13 a.m.

North Las Vegas senior citizen Ila Gifis sees the city moving in a positive direction, in sharp contrast to what she saw when she moved there 15 years ago.

What's important to her, and other seniors who take classes through the North Las Vegas Recreation Center, is the need for a true senior center with more classes and space.

Gifis spoke of her concerns Tuesday when she and others met with members of the City Council, mayor, and staff to get acquainted in the city's first "Mayor's Community Breakfast." Gifis was one of at least 50 seniors who were bused from the recreation center to the event.

More than a stone's throw from the seriousness and governmental jargon of council chambers, council members mingled easily with the crowd of more than 100 people at Mojave High School, some taking a seat with the residents while others roamed the area introducing themselves.

Gifis said she was particularly impressed with Mayor Michael Montandon, whose speech, "Cultivating Community Pride," included encouraging residents to check on senior citizens and others with special needs.

The crux of Montandon's speech focused on growing together as a community by meeting neighbors and working together.

"You measure a community by what they do for each other," the mayor said.

As Councilman John Rhodes talked with several seniors, he said some were concerned with transportation, crime and senior services. He said the event will become a yearly occasion, "to build community pride and let people know there's human beings behind these titles."

Diana Sahagun covers North Las Vegas for the Sun. She can be reached at (702) 259-2320 or by e-mail at diana@lasvegassun.com