Whirlpool spa closes: Juice bar construction begins May 1 Published April 25, 2007 By Sheila Rupp Nucleus Journalist KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, New Mexico -- The East Fitness Center will be getting a healthy new supplement soon - a juice bar to help nourish patrons from the inside out and further enhance the services provided there. Beginning May 1, the whirlpool spa in the East Fitness Center will close to make room for what will eventually be a healthy juice bar. The two-phase project will begin with the filling of the current whirlpool spa and turning the room into a rest and relaxation area, said Steve Wilson, services director. Phase I of the renovation will include adding vending machines that are stocked with healthy drinks and snacks and tables and chairs to rest on before, during or after workout. Phase II consists of adding a full juice bar that will feature smoothies, energy bars, fruit and other healthy food items. Robins AFB, Ga. added a juice bar to their fitness center annex in April 2001. John Enterman, the Robins fitness center director, said, "Our juice bar has been very popular with our customers and the only negative thing I've heard is that it isn't open long enough." The Robins juice bar provides $17K in income to the base's services division, and they are looking into adding an espresso machine. Whirlpool spa patrons will still be able to visit the West Fitness Center whirlpool spa after the east whirlpool spa is closed May 1. The West Fitness Center will be open limited hours through April 29 due to a deployment exercise. Reduced hours are Monday through Friday 6 a.m.-2 p.m. and closed Saturday and Sunday. Normal business hours will resume April 30, Monday through Friday 6 a.m.-6 p.m. For any questions or comments, call the East Fitness Center at 846-1102.