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NEWS | April 9, 2013

FSS springs into the season

By Senior Airman Teresa Aber 633rd Air Base Wing Public Affairs

Days are getting longer, the water is getting warmer, flowers are blossoming and people are starting to spend more time outdoors; through programs offered by the 633rd Force Support Squadron at Langley Air Force Base, Va.

The squadron has a variety of activities, both outdoors and indoors, for Service members, Department of Defense employees and their dependents.

"Regardless of whether you're a veteran to the area or you've just PCS'd here, we have a variety of activities to help you enjoy the season," said Jeff Tessler, 633rd FSS Community Services Flight chief. "These events allow you to meet new people and make new friends."

With the weather warming up, Service members and their families can enjoy the outdoors at Bethel Park through paddle boat rentals, fishing, softball fields, volleyball courts and barbeque grills. Also included at Bethel Park are paintball facilities and pavilion rentals for squadron picnics, promotion parties and more.

FamCamp, also located at Bethel Park, provides full camping facilities for up to 22 recreational vehicles, which may be helpful for family vacations or relatives coming to visit, said Tessler.

Another avenue to take advantage of the warm weather is through the Langley Marina. Customers can rent wet or dry slips to park their boats for 24/7 access. The Marina has a snack bar open for lunch on weekdays with daily lunch specials.

The Eaglewood Golf Course may also suit those seeking warm weather activities. With an 18-hole course, professional golfers on staff available for lessons and a 24-hour driving range, the golf course has a variety of activities for the most experienced golfer, as well as for beginners who may be interested in learning the game.

"There is always something going on for any level of golfer to enjoy," said Tessler.

Additionally, spring may be the perfect time to complete vehicle maintenance before those big summer road trips. Langley's Auto Skills, now open Sundays, is an option available for Service members and their families.

"Customers can use the 24-bay facility for do-it-yourself repairs and maintenance work," said Tessler. "Or if they're not skilled in vehicle maintenance, we have Automotive Service Excellence certified mechanics available."

For those wanting to stay indoors, FSS offers additional activities.

Langley Lanes, a 24-lane bowling alley, has a variety of events to enjoy, including cosmic bowling weekly, bowling leagues and family fun packs available on Sundays. Langley's Lanes also offer lessons for those who wish to improve their game, as well as food at the King Pin Café, which is open seven days a week, all in an air conditioned facility.

"Not everyone enjoys outdoor activities," said Tessler. "Sometimes, people want to escape the heat and humidity during the day, and they may want to find ways to enjoy their time when the sun goes down."

Also available for indoor enjoyment is the Langley Club. The club hosts various special events such as Latin, Soul Food and Comedy Nights. With nationally known headlining comedians, club members and nonmembers can come together to have a good time. The Community Center is also a perfect indoor retreat. With musical instrument lessons, martial arts classes and acting workshops, there is an endless variety of activities to choose from.

"During the spring and summer months, our Bargain Market is a huge hit in the Community Center parking lot," said James Murrell, Community Center director. "Anyone looking to do some spring cleaning can come together to buy and sell all those items that may have been sitting in their attics or garages without being used."

For those who enjoy activities off-base, Information, Tickets and Tours, also available at the Community Center, offers outlet mall trips and discounted tickets to amusement parks, as well as local arts and sporting events.

No matter what you enjoy, 633rd FSS offers a wide range of activities and events that are sure to meet your needs and pique your interests. For more information on services provided, visit http://www.jbleforcesupport.com/.