49 SVS renovations to modernization Published Sept. 18, 2007 By Airman 1st Class Heather Stanton 49th Fighter Wing Public Affairs HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- Renovations are taking place throughout the 49th Services Squadron to modernize the look and provide a better quality of life for Holloman Airmen. The biggest renovations are to the current Enlisted and Officers' Clubs, soon to be renamed Desert Sands and Stealth Landing Clubs, respectively. "The renaming is to get out of the standard rank clubs," said Maj. Raymond Madrid, 49 SVS commander. "98 percent of our programs are open to all ranks so there is no longer a need to delineate between officer and enlisted programs or facilities." Renovations to the Desert Sands Club are to the ballroom, said Major Madrid. It is getting new carpet, fresh paint, wood finishings, and new chandeliers and lighting fixtures. Also, the wall section in the back is being demolished for more room. "The ballroom is mostly used for conferences and events, such as Airman Leadership School graduations," said the major. "It was the general's (Brig. Gen. David Goldfein, 49th Fighter Wing commander) vision to have a better first impression for spouses and guests to Holloman." The Stealth Landing Club will be mainly to the patio area, said Major Madrid. There will be a gas fire pit, new railings, a new door from the 49er Lounge, a dry bar and new furniture. "It will provide more space for people to spread out," said Capt. Patrick Holland, 49th Logistics Readiness Squadron. "We will be able to enjoy the weather as it cools down and it will be an overall enhancement to the Stealth Landing Club." "This was another vision of the general's," he said. "A place to be more utilized by everyone." All renovations are being funded by General Goldfein as part of his quality of life initiatives for Holloman. Along with the renovations to the clubs, other changes are taking place. "Starting Aug. 31, JR Rockers will become enlisted-only Fridays after 4 p.m.," said Major Madrid. "Officers currently have their own bar for Friday evening, the 49er Lounge, but there is no official enlisted bar available due to accepting a JR Rockers for this base. As a short-term fix, until a long term solution can be attained, JR Rockers will become enlisted only so both officers and enlisted can have a place dedicated to hang-out and/or provide mentorship." The Desert Sands Club ballroom will be closed until Oct. 19 and the Stealth Landing Club patio will take approximately three months to complete.