Base enlisted club undergoes renovations Published Dec. 2, 2014 By Senior Airman Stephanie Morris Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- The Minot Air Force Base enlisted club, J.R. Rockers, began renovations Nov. 17, to improve the overall design and functionality of the building. Construction is expected to be completed in the early summer of 2015 with the reopening of the new club to follow shortly thereafter. The club, built in 1957, was originally known as the Northern Lites Club. Since opening, it has hosted a wide array of events ranging from football parties to socials with visitors from other countries; from dance nights to live musical performances. "J.R. Rockers began as, and remains, a place where Airmen can come together to relax and let go of the stressors of their daily routines," said Robert Michel, 5th Bomb Wing historian. Renee Price, 5th Force Support Squadron J.R. Rockers assistant manager, explained no one project took priority over the other and nearly the entire building is currently under construction. "All of the projects are happening simultaneously: the carpet is up, walls are down and the bathrooms are torn apart," Price said. "I'm very excited about the renovation. I've been at Rockers for about 15 years, so I'm looking forward to seeing the changes." The renovations, which some feel may be overdue, are starting this year based on customer feedback that the building was becoming outdated, Price said. Some projects, such as bathrooms, weren't originally slated for refurbishing but have since become a part of the construction plan. Once construction is complete, customers will be able to enjoy new facilities, carpet, flooring and painted walls throughout the entire building, Price said. There will also be new furniture in the club and bar areas. Though the project has only just begun, Price stated many customers have already expressed their excitement and anticipation of the changes, and many can't wait for the reopening. Now that renovations have begun on the building, the staff and management are making plans for new events, menus and a new name for the establishment. "We have had focus groups to make sure that we're incorporating the Airmen's ideas into new programs," Price said. "When we open back up, it will be an exciting time for everyone. We'll have a new name and a new menu. But at the moment, we are keeping the new programs as a surprise."