Summer fun in San Angelo

  • Published
  • By Scott Jarmon
  • 17th Training Wing Public Affairs
GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  It's that time of the year again - you can walk outside and instantly be drenched in sweat. Of course, in San Angelo sometimes that occurs in the middle of January, but by June or July this kind of weather can really discourage you from going outside and doing anything.

However, there are tons of different activities to do on Goodfellow and in San Angelo that won't cause you - or your wallet - to swelter.

Movies: The Goodfellow Chaparral Theater plays a movie Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings for $3 per person. This theater is perfect for students looking to see the movie they missed in off-base theaters. Though some might not like the idea at taking up weekend time that might otherwise be spent clubbing, the showings are early enough that catching a movie won't interfere with your nightlife too much. Check out the listings in the community section of this paper, or call the movie line at 654-3206.

Local Activities: San Angelo has several historical and interesting sites to visit. Take a tour of Fort Concho, visit historic Fairmount Cemetery or take a walk in one of San Angelo's many parks - all for free. Yes, these are outside activities, but better to try them on a sunny day than during the pouring rain. For more information, see www.sanangelo texas.org.

Volunteer Work: It might seem crazy, but getting outside and volunteering does tend to make working hard on a hot summer day seem worthwhile. San Angelo is a growing community filled with opportunities for service. Get involved with base professional organizations to help with Air Force-related projects, or contact the Airman and Family Readiness Flight at 654-3893 to ask about volunteer opportunities in San Angelo.

Sports: Sports are some of the best activities to engage in during the summer. While it might be difficult to muster the energy to head to the gym when the thermometer reads in the triple digits, both Mathis and Carswell Fitness Centers are a lot cooler inside than the heat outside. Get a group of friends together to play basketball, or work out in a group by taking some of the fitness classes. If more organized fare is your game, try joining one of your unit's sports teams. There are several athletic events going on this summer; contact the Mathis Fitness Center for more information at 654-3242.

Bowling: Whether you're a professional or a newcomer, bowling is a sport that everyone can enjoy together. Open bowling is available every day at the Thede Bowling Center for a reasonable price, and the short-order food is a nice change of pace if you only eat in the dining facility. For more information, call 654-3227.

Outdoor recreation: When you can't decide what to do, sometimes the best thing to do is to just go outside and have a good time. The number of outdoor activities is only limited by the ideas one can come up with. The Recreation Camp has activities to keep you busy during the summer and around town there are numerous parks where you can spend the day.

Get out of town: From Disney World to Six Flags to international travel, whether you have leave burning a hole in your pocket or you're just looking for a good way to spend a weekend, Information, Tickets and Travel can fit your needs. Call ITT at the Events Center to buy tickets for theme parks and vacation spots at a discount available to all active duty personnel. For more information, call 654-3247 or visit www.goodfellowservices.org/ITT.htm

Barbeque: Good food. Good friends. Good fun. What's not to like about a barbeque? The Commissary offers everything you might need for a good barbeque: meat, marinade, sauce, charcoal, etc. If you don't have a grill, you can get one from Equipment Rental or go to one of San Angelo's many parks; it's a great place to go to interact with the community and have fun. Equipment Rental can be reached at 654-3254 and has a brochure online at www.goodfellowservices.org/EquimpentRentalPrices.html

Camping: Going out to San Angelo state park with friends or family for the weekend is never a bad idea. Camping is a great way to relax and take the stress of work off your shoulders. If you're looking for a more rugged experience, there are several parks out of the city that are meant for backpacking. For your equipment needs, from large ice chests to backpacks, call or visit the Equipment Rental Store.

Pools: Nothing beats a cool dip in the pool on a hot summer day. The base has three pools: McGarr, China Beach, and the pool at the Goodfellow Recreation Camp, and they all open today! Buying a pool pass for the summer is a good way to ensure an inexpensive and cool summer. Check www.goodfellowservices.org/pools.htm for information and pricing for the pools.

Don't forget, the Texas heat is unforgiving at times. Whatever you choose to do, make sure you keep cool and drink plenty of water to avoid overheating.

Get out there and have a wonderful summer!