For children's sake

  • Published
  • By Jamie Haig
  • 16th SOW Public Affairs
The 6,700-square foot, $2.1 million addition to the Hurlburt Field Youth Center opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Tuesday, signifying an improvement for Hurlburt Field children and the before-and-after school programs offered. 

“It’s been a long time coming, and I thank 16th Services Squadron personnel for their efforts,” said Col. Clifford “Skip” Day, 16th Mission Support Group commander. “I hope everyone will enjoy it.” 

Five new rooms, which took 16 months to complete, presents new opportunities for children ages 5-12 years old. 

“We want to challenge the children,” said Dell Mucci, youth center director. “We want to encourage them physically and mentally.” 

The “quiet room” provides a space where the children can read, do homework or take part in drama classes. 

The science and arts room has a selection of arts and craft supplies, microscopes, board games and a sewing area. 

The dance room, which is enclosed by mirrors, is available for practicing dance moves and doing aerobics. 

A multi-purpose room allows for a place to play music and have snacks. The room, which is equipped with a kitchen, can also be rented out by base members for personal use. It also comes equipped with dance platform machines, a big screen television andsoon, a karaoke machine. 

The new high-tech cyber lounge has five computers that are hooked up with three interactive gaming stations and a gateway to the Internet. 

“We try to encourage the children to be active,” said Sarah Conway, 16th SVS. “But, we also understand their need to just ‘chill’ in front of a game sometimes.” 

In addition to the changes made for the children, the youth center staff members now has their own training room. 

“This room gives us the edge,” said Mr. Mucci. “We want to provide the best training available to our staff.” 

The youth center has plans to keep expanding their current curriculum to offer more opportunities for base children. 

The hours of operation are 6:15- 8:30 a.m. and 2:30-5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday..