By Art Thrives

April 1, 2026 (La Mesa) – In a surprise announcement today, La Mesa Mayor Mark Arapostathis announced that the city has acquired the former Macy’s department store building at Grossmont Center.

“I’m delighted to reveal that this site will soon be home to a spacious new library and long-awaited community theatre,” said Arapostathis, a retired teacher and long-time junior theater leader.  He added, “The new Jewel of the Hills center will become a cultural and arts hub for our community, fulfilling our promise of a state-of-the-art library as well as providing event space and a stage for youth theater and other community groups.”