Enlisted club offers entertainment close to home Published Oct. 1, 2008 By Airman 1st Class Marissa Tucker 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- With the national average for a gallon of gas at $ 3.63, taking road trips to party can be very pricey. As a means to keep Airmen from traveling off base for all of their entertainment needs, the Enlisted Club host parties, socials and other events to appeal to the tastes of all enlisted members, from the first term Airman to the seasoned non-commissioned officer. "We try to do a little something for everyone at the e-club," said Al Urolia, club manager. "Our goal is to provide an environment for servicemembers and their families to relax, socialize and just come together and have fun." Mr.Urolia, a retired Air Force master sergeant, has been working in the clubs since 1977. They have always served as a country club of sorts for the base, hosting events such as weddings, graduations, retirements, and generally, just a place to hang out, Mr. Urolia said. The club includes a bingo room, barbershop, catering service, ballroom, the Kitty Hawk lounge, and Simply Seymour's; a dine-in or out restaurant open from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for lunch Mon-Fri, and Friday evening from 5 p.m. to 8 for dinner for all ranks enlisted and officer. Club hours vary day to day depending on what types of events are being held, and Mr. Urolia usually tries to have activities going on, he said. "We have the rock band nights where people can come in and play the video game on the projector screen," Mr. Urolia said. "Also, on game days, people can come in and watch the game on the big screens and have a drink while they're at it. We do this for the base and they just have to take advantage of it." The club also offers membership through a club card with Chase bank. There are two types of club cards available: a proprietor's card, which can only be used Air Force clubs, and a traditional credit card usable wherever credit cards are accepted. Both cards can be used for discounts at most force support facilities at Air Force bases worldwide. "I think it's pretty good plan," Mr. Urolia said. "It benefits the user, because it can build up their credit, which can be very useful for the Airmen who just came in trying to establish their credit, or the NCOs who just wants to raise their credit score. Club membership is always a good thing." Another benefit of the enlisted club is the parties hosted on certain weekends. Latin, Hip Hop, and old school night are some of the themed parties available free of charge. Airmen who usually travel far for a party can enjoy the atmosphere of a club in a safe setting close to home. " It's important for Airmen to have a different option besides driving 45 minutes to have a good place to have fun," said Airman 1st Class Irney Puentes of the 4th Civil Engineer Squadron and secretary of Exceptional Airmen Gaining Leadership Skills (EAGLES) who sometimes work with Mr. Urolia to plan events. "Sometimes, there's just not money for gas." Also, there is a better feeling of safety while having a good time at the enlisted club. "There is a level of respect and camaraderie that is held among Airmen, so there are less fights at the e-club compared to off-base establishments," said Airman 1st Class Meghan Pohlman, also of the 4th CES. "Also, it's nice that you can just walk home if you live in the dorms. " The programs created at the club are based on the response of the Airmen who take advantage of the services offered. For more information on programs and events offered at the enlisted club, or to make suggestions, call (919) 722-1927.