Watkins-Das Learning Center new caffination destination

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Tammie Moore
  • 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  Members of the 4th Fighter Wing no longer need to leave the base gates to get their coffee fix.

The Star Mountain Coffee Shop opened for business in the Watkins-Das Learning Center Jan. 4.

"If you want a delicious cup of freshly brewed regular or specialty coffee, stop by and visit Star Mountain," said Janet Best, 4th Force Support Squadron Force Development Flight chief. "They grow their own coffee beans so you are getting the best of the best. You will get great service and can select from a variety of pastries, bagels, wraps, juices, hot chocolate, etc. You never have to leave the base now to get that special cup of coffee."

According to Mrs. Best there has been a demand for a coffee kiosk in the Watkins-Das Learning Center ever since it opened.

"Our students/patrons have asked to have coffee available for them," she said. "Normally when college classes are in session, there are approximately 500 people through this facility on any given day so this coffee kiosk will be a great service to our customers. The library also sees hundreds of visitors per day and people are testing every day, so there is a big demand for this service in the Watkins-Das Learning Center."

In fact, the members of the Airman's Task Force lobbied to leadership to have a coffee shop in the learning center.

"The opening of this coffee kiosk came about because it is what the Airmen wanted," said Col. Anne Winkler, 4th Mission Support Group commander. "They voiced their desires and we listened."

In addition to offering a range of coffee drinks, the Star Mountain Coffee Shop also will sell pastries and wrap sandwiches.

"It is especially important for our students who come to class at 5 p.m. and do not leave the facility until 10:30 p.m.," Mrs. Best said. "Additionally, many students do not have time to eat before coming to class even at lunch."

The Star Mountain Coffee Shop ribbon cutting ceremony took place on the first day of Mount Olive College's winter semester and was attended by several members of the base.

"This is another opportunity for the Seymour Johnson Airman to indulge in their passion conveniently, especially for those attending evening classes," Colonel Winkler said. "Now they can come down for an energy break, grab a banana and a coffee and head back to class."

The coffee kiosk is not just for patrons of the education center and library it is open to the entire Seymour Johnson community.

"We hope that people will stop by on the way to work for that delicious cup of coffee or stop by to grab a wrap for lunch or dinner," Mrs. Best said. "We want this venture to be successful for Star Mountain and a wonderful service to the entire base."

The shop, which only accepts cash, is open from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday.