LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. –
As U.S. Air Force Airmen spend their time at work, stress may build up inside them. The Community Commons at Langley Air Force Base, Va., may provide several ways an Airman can release that stress, relax, do something exciting or learn a new skill.
According to Master Sgt. Elroy Williams, 633rd Force Support Squadron community programs director, the Community Commons at Langley Air Force Base is unique in what it offers Service members.
"The Community Commons is the new name for the Community Center," said Williams. "It's mainly for the Airmen in the dorms to come over, use our computers, pool table, table tennis, basketball court, video games and all our other facilities, but is open to all Service members and their dependents. This facility is pretty much unique, being that it's one of the bigger community commons in the Air Force, housing the Airman's Attic, Heidi's Dress Closet and the Thrift Store."
The Commons provides Airmen with retail alternatives, but also organizes trips and events for Airmen to participate in. The program which they reach out to Airmen with is called the Single Airmen Initiative.
"We have the Single Airmen Initiative here, which coordinates trips and events, often free of cost," said Williams. "We've done skiing trips, Myrtle Beach trips, block parties, bowling events and more. We also help provide cheap--sometimes free--tickets and tours."
If there is nothing available that meets an Airman's particular interests, the Community Commons management is very open to ideas. Williams said if it is not too "crazy," they can most likely get a good idea approved by their chain of command.
The Commons also hosts tournaments for Billiards and Table Tennis players, and will soon host tournaments for video gamers as well.
"We also host classes for martial arts, dance, music and others," said Williams. "The instructors welcome you to come in and talk to them, bring your kids and work with them to get whatever you want or need from them."
Located near the Child Development Center and Langley Inn, Williams encourages Service members to come check out what the Commons has to offer. As unique as it is, Williams thinks it would be good to take advantage of its presence.
For more information, call 764-2983 or 764-2984 or visit
www.jble.forcesupport.com