(Ahlul Bayt News Agency) - The grand opening Wednesday was attended by about a dozen city officials and employees, including four of the city’s five commissioners.

After a tour, the two-dozen people attending the event were served a Mediterranean meal and provided complimentary copies of the Holy Qur’an.

City officials praised the group for its conversion of a rundown warehouse into a family-oriented facility for Muslims throughout Central Florida.

“I love that the focus is on children. Anything for kids, I support it,” said Longwood Mayor Brian Sackett, a fifth-grade teacher.

American Muslim Community Centers President Atif Fareed thanked city officials for their support and cooperation in locating the center in Longwood.

“A group of friends got together and we decided to build a community,” Fareed said. “We got very lucky when we chose Longwood.

Longwood was convenient to many communities where Muslims live. I want to thank the city of Longwood. They have welcomed us from day one, and worked with us and guided us.”

An open house and fund-raiser for members of the Muslim community will be held at the center from 1 p.m.-6 p.m., Saturday.

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