Your NAF support enables new bowling center

  • Published
  • By 509th Bomb Wing Report
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  Many members of Team Whiteman may not be familiar with the way Nonappropriated Funds (NAF) influence base programs, events and facilities.  In fact we all play a direct role in raising funds that are used by the wing to purchase items that improve the Whiteman community each time we utilize Force Support NAF activities.

That means the profits from that burger you just purchased from Mission's End, the game you just bowled at the Stars & Strikes Bowling Center, the bucket of balls you just hit at the golf course or even the snow blower you just rented from Outdoor Recreation are all given back to Team Whiteman - to all of us - through the NAF process. 

The fact that NAF programs and facilities are designed to be self-supporting - meaning they make enough money to support themselves so no extra money from the wing has to be set aside - makes these initiatives even more beneficial.

It is imperative that we all understand the importance of supporting our on-base NAF activities, and the direct impact your support can have on our ability to care for our people and families.  Unlike Appropriated Funds (APF), which are appropriated by Congress and have strict rules on how they can be spent, NAF funds provide greater flexibility for wing leadership to directly contribute to the morale, welfare, and recreation of the Whiteman community. 

That means that all of us that are part of Team Whiteman directly benefit from the money NAF contributes by way of programs, equipment and facility upgrades, renovations and projects you see throughout the base.

And the good news is, even more changes based upon your feedback are on the way. 

You, the Whiteman community, have listed our bowling center as an integral part of your daily recreational activity.  Because of your consistent, practical input and thanks to your support of NAF programs, soon there will be a new bowling center here on Whiteman AFB.

The current bowling center, which was constructed in 1966, is the highest-rated dining option on base; however, major changes are needed to sustain operations there as patronage continues to grow.  Moreover, existing limitations at the current facility prevent us from expanding the current bowling center to meet demand. 

As such the Force Support Squadron, the Civil Engineering Squadron, and the Contracting Squadron here have been working diligently to make this new $6.6 million quality of life (QoL) initiative into a reality that all Team Whiteman members, young and old, can enjoy.  What's even better is that the new Bowling Center will actually raise even more NAF funds once it is open and it will help provide self-sufficiency throughout all of our FSS activities - that means even more QoL money coming in to the wing.  

The groundbreaking for the project is currently scheduled for March 23 at 11 a.m. and will take place directly across from the 509th Headquarters building.  The estimated completion date for the new Bowling Center is March 2016.  

The new center will offer an expanded pro shop with 16 brand new lanes able to be used for league bowling, parties and everyday recreational use. 

But the updates don't end there. 

To further create an environment that is healthy and fun for Team Whiteman members of all ages, party rooms and a game room will be included to round out your entertainment experience.  The new facility will also feature an expanded kitchen to serve up the same great food that makes the Stars & Strikes Bowling Center the top option for on-base dining. Finally, our new location will offer a larger area for indoor and outdoor seating. 

So the next time you dine at a FSS activity, or choose an FSS facility for your entertainment needs, remember that you are directly influencing future programs, equipment and events at Whiteman AFB through the NAF process for the better!