Navy Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) is currently extending hours at fitness and child development centers (CDC) at installations throughout Navy Region Europe, Africa, and Southwest Asia (EURAFSWA) in an effort to better serve Sailors and their families.

These changes are a result of new initiatives instituted by Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus.

Extended hours at fitness centers are happening immediately, and will be incorporated at each installation according to the center's ability to hire new staff to accommodate the changes. The extension of childcare centers hours is less than a year down the road. Beginning Oct. 1, the Navy will see all CDCs open an hour earlier in the morning and stay open an hour later in the evening.

Along with these initiatives, the region is also working to reduce prices at MWR facilities and the programs they offer. This includes bowling prices and movie theater tickets, which are now less than half the price of the U.S. average.

Lisa Sexauer, director of fleet readiness, EURAFSWA, added that these savings are a result of additional funds the region found at the end of last year.

"[Region Commander Rear. Adm. Jack Scorby] wanted to pass the benefits [of these funds] to the Sailors in the region, since we were able to do so," Sexauer said.

She added, Sailors can also expect more entertainment, community events, and reduced Information, Tickets & Travel (ITT) trip prices.

According to Sexauer, this has had two benefits: putting more money back into Sailors pockets and an increase of host-nation cultural experiences. She also stated all of these programs have seen an increase in participation, including tours.

One service member said they are thus far satisfied by the additional savings and benefits they are beginning to see from these improvements.

"I take full advantage of the movie theater; it's a great deal," said Lt. Cassey Hauser, force protection planner, U.S. 6th Fleet. "And I find the rest of the prices very satisfactory."

Navy Region EURAFSWA delivers efficient and effective shore service support to U.S. and allied forces operating in Europe, Africa, Southwest Asia. As part of its mission, the region also provides numerous services, programs, and facilities to support the fleet, fighter, and family.

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For more news from Commander, Navy Region Europe, Africa, Southwest Asia, visit http://www.navy.mil/.