Cure for cabin fever: Outdoor Recreation fills spring, summer with adventures

  • Published
  • By Connie Hempel
  • 17th Training Wing Public Affairs
GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  The sun is shining and the days are getting warmer, but it seems like there's nothing to do in West Texas. Well maybe you just haven't been looking in the right place.

It's time to get up and get out because your cure for cabin fever starts right here. From getting wet to getting dirty, the 17th Force Support Squadron's Outdoor Recreation has packed the next few months with outdoor activities to entertain all ages.

"Let us help you get outside," said Ms. Kelley Kazura, Outdoor Recreation director. "Being outside helps give people perspective and takes the stress away."

The ODR staff is passionate about what they do, because they believe it's important for people to be able to get out and relax.

"Our goal is to help people spend their time off relaxing so that when they get back to work, they're ready to do the best job they can and accomplish the mission," Ms. Kazura said.

She also believes that getting outdoors helps build camaraderie.

"When people go on our trips, they get away from all of the electronics, like cell phones, computers and televisions, and that encourages people to communicate with each other," she explained.

Some events coming up include sailing classes, adult fishing clinics, kayaking and a camping trip to Balmorhea State Park.

ODR keeps safety in mind when planning their trips to make sure it's suitable for everyone. "When we plan a trip, we always recon the site before we take anyone out there," said Ms. Kazura. "We do a lot of preplanning and learn everything there is to know about the site to make sure it's safe."

ODR recently held a weekend camping and kayaking trip on the Llano River and even though she was a first-timer, 1st Lt. Melissa Collins, 17th Civil Engineer Squadron, applauds the ODR staff for helping her feel comfortable.

"At first I thought I'd be scared, but now I plan on renting my own kayak and going out on my own sometime," Lieutenant Collins said.

Even if people don't want to go on an organized trip, the ODR staff can help anyone plan their own trip.

"We actually encourage people to get out there on their own," Ms. Kazura said. "We have tons of resources and a staff that can help plan any outdoor adventure. Tell us what you have in mind, how far you're willing to travel and we'll do the rest."

If you want to get out but don't have the equipment to do anything, don't worry; there's plenty of equipment to rent at ODR. From tents, campers, and kayaks, to sports equipment and folding tables, there's always something available.

"Outdoor (recreation) is a great place to start to find something to do," Lieutenant Collins said.

For more information, call ODR for their latest scheduled events. The 17th FSS Goodtimes monthly magazine also lists two to three months worth of upcoming activities.

For a list of equipment for rent and prices, visit www.17FSSGoodTimes.org, call 325-654-3254 or stop by Building 736.