Family Movie Night: Bringing Families Together

Published Sept. 23, 2015
By Airman 1st Class Mercedes Muro
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

LITTLE ROCK AIR FORCE BASE, Ark. -- Due to the constant hustle and bustle of everyday life, many families have trouble finding the time to relax and have fun together. The 19th Force Support Squadron at Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas, is looking to combat that by holding Family Movie Night at Hangar 1080.

In an effort to make the club more family friendly, Hangar 1080 staff began holding family movie nights.

The idea to hold Family Movie Night at the base club was originally inspired by the thought of making the club more family friendly.

"A lot of people don't think Hangar 1080 is a family atmosphere," said Rebekah Beauford, a 19th Force Support Squadron club manager. "We want people to see that the club isn't just a place for Airmen. It's for everybody."

The 19th FSS decided to show movies on base because it's an affordable and safe way to get out of the house.

A family watches a movie at Family Movie Night Aug. 27, 2015, at Little Rock Air Force Base, Ark. Hangar 1080 provides movie showings every fourth Thursday of the month for all Team Little Rock families looking to spend off-duty time together. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Mercedes Muro)

"Families can come here for free," Beauford said. "Life can be so hectic sometimes that people just don't get a chance to relax at home. We want to give people that opportunity to relax in a safe environment that is affordable."

Many movie-goers are already positively responding to Family Movie Night.

"I love Family Movie Night," said Anita Urban, a substitute teacher and frequent Family Movie Night attendee. "It's a special night out for me and my godchildren. It's cheap and I love that I'm able to spend time with my godchildren here."

A buffet is also provided to families who attend the movie showing. Snacks and activities, such as face painting, are also included.

Luciana watches a movie and eats popcorn during Family Movie Night Aug. 27, 2015, at Little Rock Air Force Base, Ark. Family Movie Night is open to all families and offers a buffet and snacks. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Mercedes Muro)

Although the movie night's primary focus is the base populous, there are hopes the event will strengthen community ties as well.

"We're definitely looking forward to seeing more participation in Air Force events because, in the end, we're all a family," said Beauford. "We're one family and one Air Force. We have to come together to know who is there for us and who we can fall back on."

To find out what movie is playing next, call (501) 987-5404.