Well, it’s here. 9/9/99 came and went without the realization of the feared worldwide computer crashes or the coming of Nostradamus’ predictions.

For all that 9/9/99 was (thankfully) without, however, that date did bring about the realization of one change — the opening of Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts in downtown Harrisburg.

Called a “magnet” by Governor Tom Ridge, Whitaker Center opened its doors in front of the throngs of mid-morning spectators who gathered in Market Street to watch the goings-on.

“Whitaker Center is about the future,” Mayor Stephen R. Reed said, adding that the building serves as a promise for the next generation — a belief that Governor Ridge more than echoed in his statements.

“(Whitaker Center) is a Capital place for young and old to come and experience and enjoy,” he said. “We open the doors for the children.”

The groundbreaking for the $51 million Center, home to the 664 seat Sunoco Performance Theater, an interactive science museum, and a six-story 3D IMAX Theater, took place some two years ago this month and, in addition to private and corporate funding, was aided by a state investment of $21 million — a price tag that the Governor sees as being more than justifiable. “This is one of the best investments we’ve ever made,” he said, addressing the crowd. “We (the state) gave you back some of your own money to build this, so I thank you.”

Also in attendance at the ribbon cutting was Whitaker Center architect Hugh Hardy who reiterated the sentiment that Whitaker Center is more than a mere building. “What could be better than a place of discovery?,” he asked, adding, “The point of all of this is, it’s yours — now go inside and make it your own.”

Now fully operational, the Whitaker Center will act as home to 10 resident theater companies and more than 200 hands-on exhibits. More than that, however, is the fact that it is now a permanent part of the Harrisburg landscape.