The Tides getting a makeover

  • Published
  • By Chris Kraus
  • 45th Services Division
The Tides, Patrick AFB's popular beach-side consolidated club, is undergoing a major face-lift. 

Made possible with a matching grant from Space Command, the 45th Services Division plans to renovate the existing facility with nearly $500,000 in improvements. Preliminary work has already started and the project is expected to be completed within the next 90 to 120 days. 

With the help of the 45th Civil Engineer Squadron, the renovation is being accomplished in two phases. The first phase will convert the 50s/60s diner to a special functions room and allow the club more space to hold meetings and support larger events such as weddings. It will also provide a room that can be utilized to handle overflow when the dining room exceeds capacity. 

The second phase will convert the old Sharkey's Lounge into a brand new dining room, complete with a new bar. A dance floor is being added and will allow the room to support activities that include music and dancing. Increased lighting will also be added to brighten up the room and create a more inviting atmosphere. 

Although the renovation may temporarily prevent the club from supporting some special functions, the inconvenience to club members will be minimal. 

"Lunch and dinner operations will continue with no interruption," said Bill DeCoux, chief of the 45th Services Division's Business Operations Flight. "The services division is making every effort to ensure the project has minimal impact on our customers and to continue making improvements to the Tides Club wherever possible. 

"We ask patrons of the club to bear with us and to 'pardon our progress' during this time," Mr. DeCoux added. "The minor inconveniences some club members may experience while the renovation takes place will be offset by the end result - a much nicer looking club that will benefit members and result in less moving around for patrons and staff during special functions." 

To obtain the grant money to make the renovation possible, Patrick competed with other bases in the command. After a thorough review of all the grant requests, the justification submitted by Patrick's services division was approved. 

"We are very pleased with being awarded these funds. The 45th Services Division worked very hard to make this upgrade to the club possible," said Mr. DeCoux. "The grant, along with matching funds generated here at Patrick, enable us to make these much needed improvements. We are listening to our club members and doing everything we can to make The Tides Club a better place and the best in the command." 

Acting Tides Club Manager Frank Martinez agrees. "I think our club members will really appreciate what we are doing for them here. I'm very excited about the way the renovation plans look right now and believe our members will be as well."