New MCX opening Nov. 18-21

Story by Cpl. Laura A. Mapes

After approximately 14 months of construction, the station's new Marine Corps Exchange is scheduled to open Wednesday.

The grand opening of the new, 64,000-square-foot exchange complex is scheduled to occur during four event-packed days, Nov. 18-21, each featuring something for all ages. "The intent behind it was to spread the grand opening out over four days so there is something for everyone," said Jenifer Larson, Marine Corps Community Services marketing assistant and sponsorship coordinator. "We wanted to have something for every demographic, and I think we will."

Following a ribbon cutting ceremony at 9 a.m., the first 100 visitors will receive a goody bag and an MCX gift card of up to $250. Cooking demonstrations will go from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., after which is a beer tasting from 2-4 p.m. Guitar Hero and Call of Duty video game tournaments are scheduled from 3-7 p.m. Winners will receive an Xbox 360, games and an MP3 player. Mixed martial arts stars Frank "Twinkle Toes" Trigg and Rob Emerson will be signing autographs from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m.

MCCS has organized a family fall festival day, which starts at 4 p.m. on the second day of the grand opening. This will include face painting, pony rides, family games and the chance to win a washer and dryer. Another beer tasting is scheduled as well as a guest appearance by the Bud Girls. The third day's theme will be a "taste of MCAS." Exchange patrons will be able to sample the different types of beverages and food the new exchange has to offer. These include Dryers ice cream, Rice King, Carl's Jr., Frito-Lay with an appearance of Chester Cheetah, Benito's Pizza and more, as well as various brands of alcohol. Tommy and the Drifters, a blues rock band, will be playing from 4-7 p.m. during the tasting.

The last day of the grand opening is deemed "Xtreme day." This day will include Monster Motocross team performances at 4 p.m., 5:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. There will also be a NASCAR simulator open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

"I am ecstatic about it," said Larson. "I think this grand opening is going to be great."