Be prepared: the DFAC is closing

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Vernon L. Fowler Jr.
  • 6th Air Mobility Wing public affairs
MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  The Diner's Reef dining facility is a key resource in keeping the members of Team MacDill well-fed and nourished; especially the dorm residents. Unfortunately, the dining facility will go through a closure beginning August 25, 2014 that will last approximately 90 days.

Why is this happening?

The dining facility will be undergoing repairs for the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system. These repairs will allow better cooling for the employees working in the back of the facility, as well as the employees working in the front of the facility.

"This is an important project to MacDill," said Michael Cooley, 6th Civil Engineer Squadron chief of programs. "We have over 200 dorm residents on meal cards that depend on the DFAC and average over 1,500 people per day when we include the wide variety of other military, civil service, and civilians that use the facility."

Senior Master Sgt. Deborah Parsons, 6th Force Support Squadron sustainment flight superintendent, added further comment on behalf of the dining facility personnel.

"This will make for a much more comfortable and enjoyable working and dining experience during the sweltering Florida summers," said Parsons.

What does everyone do in the meantime?

Finance and the dining facility will be working together to create options to help dorm residents deal with the closure. In the meantime, the Aramark will have expanded hours and menu options at the rest of their facilities, to include Fairways Grill, SeaScapes Beach House, Ten Pin Grill and Surf's Edge Club. There will also be food trucks made available.

Overall, preparations are being made in advance to help personnel better deal with not having access to the dining facility. Members of Team MacDill can rest assured in knowing that their needs and concerns are always a top priority.

"This will result in a better dining environment for our base patrons, working environment for the staff, and ultimately save money in fewer repairs and reduced energy consumption," said Cooley.