Good things; PLAYpass extended through 2013 Published Jan. 24, 2013 By Nick Stubbs Thunderbolt editor MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- It's oft said that all good things must come to an end, but while it was expected it would be over at the close of 2012, fans of the Air Force PLAYpass will get an extension of the popular program at least through December. The PLAYpass program, which is a rewards program for the families of deployed members and single Airmen returning from deployment, will remain active through Dec. 31. It offers discounts and free specials to members on everything from child care and deep sea fishing to horseback riding and piano lessons and rock climbing. The PLAYpass program is coordinated through the Airman & Family Readiness Center. Eligible members may register at the A&FRC at 8105 Condor St., building 18 adjacent to the Post Office. Call 828-0145. Several base facilities participate in the program, among them the Arts & Crafts Center, wood and auto hobby shops, the Child Development Center I, the Short Fitness Center, the base library, Outdoor Recreation and the Youth Center. The programs and special offered are available to all Airmen and their families, but only those with a PLAYpass receive the discounted and free offers. "It's a great incentive for deployed members and families, and there's no reason not to take advantage of it," said Tech. Sgt. Tashiana Sanders, A&FRC NCO. Sanders said the program is well known around base, and particularly among those who deploy often. "A lot of our frequent deployers are aware and stay on top of it (the PLAYpass)," Sanders said. She added that because the A&FRC didn't know the program was going to be extended until last month, all PLAYpass cards were set to expire at the end of last year. That means anyone who has not renewed their card should stop in and do so to receive 2013 benefits. Upcoming events and offers include the Sarasota Shell Show Feb. 2 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.. Departing from the base marina activity room at 8:30 a.m., a minimum of 10 people are needed. Cost for pass holders is $8 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under. Register by Jan. 31. A deep-sea fishing trip is set for Feb. 10, and will depart from the marina at 5:30 a.m. Cost for members is $85 per person, with fishing aboard the Miss Virginia out of New Port Richey. Also in February will be Library Lovers Month, with a Valentine's Story Time & Craft day Feb. 12 at 10:30 a.m. The library also has a "guess the number" of hearts in a jar contest. Other offerings include golf lessons. Call the A&FRC for dates. The group class runs five days and the cost is $49. There also are daily golf specials, with prices from $12 to $31 depending on rank and time of day. A new offering is piano lessons for children 5 to 18. Classes are 30 minutes or an hour, and are held Mondays and Thursdays running between 2:30 and 6:30 p.m. Cost is $34 for each 30-minute lesson or $136 per month. One-hour classes are $60 or $240 per month. Register at the Youth Center, building 382 or call 828-7956. Looking ahead to March, offerings include horseback riding and another deep-sea fishing trip, with more events in the works to ensure lots of activities through the end of the year.