Summer programs aim to beat the summer blues for base youths

  • Published
  • By Nick Stubbs
  • 6th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
MacDill AFB, Fla. --  Summer is fast approaching, sending parents and children into the annual ritual of mapping out what, where and how kids can spend their summer break. The Force Support Squadron believes it has at least part of the answer. 

A host of activities for children and teens has been added to the slate, and will run between June 5 and Aug. 23. The idea is to provide fun and valuable learning experiences, as well as a sure cure for the summer boredom. Both indoor and outdoor activities are scheduled. 

Fishing
Outdoor activities include a shoreline fishing day for kids 10 to 17. It will be every Monday from 9 to 11 a.m. June 8 through Aug. 17. The cost is $2 per child and includes rod, reel and bait. There is no minimum number of participants and no need to sign up in advance. Kids will meet at the base marina and head to the day's fishing destination from there. 

Golf
For the aspiring Tiger's out there, a variety of golf programs are being offered. 

Saturday's 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. between June 6 and Aug. 22 - Junior Golf Clinic for ages 8 through 17. The cost is $3 per child and includes the use of clubs. 

Tuesdays and Thursdays, noon to 1 p.m., June 9 through Aug. 20, the free active duty golf clinic will be open to children. 

Tuesday through Friday, June 5 through Aug. 21, special open play rates for youths 8 to 17 will apply. A round including greens fees and a pull cart will be $5, with junior rental clubs provided free of charge if available. Children may play unescorted if they have a certificate showing completion of a junior golf camp or instruction. Youths with drivers licenses may rent a golf cart, though they will have to pay cart fees. 

Bowling
Monday through Friday between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m - For youths 8 to 17 looking to beat the summer heat, bowling may be just the ticket. Between June 5 and Aug. 22, a Kids Special for open bowling will be just $1 per line bowled. Shoe rental is $1.50. The special is based on lanes being available. 

Mondays at 1 p.m., from June 8 through Aug. 10, there will be teen league bowling. Those looking to participate must sign up at the bowling lanes no later than noon, June 5. The league is for youths 12 to 17, and a minimum of 18 youths) (six teams with three each) is required. Cost is $5 per week, and includes three games, shoes and a $2 prize fund. Prizes for winners will be announced.