CAMP ZAMA, Japan (Sept. 11, 2012) -- The new Skills Development Center here was opened to the public following a ribbon-cutting ceremony held Sept. 7 in front of the facility.
The multipurpose facility includes an Auto Skills Center, Arts and Crafts Center, Military Clothing Sales and Army Supply Center in one complex. This offers a variety services that are centrally located for customer convenience, said a representative from Camp Zama's Morale, Welfare and Recreation.
"This is great for one-stop shopping," said John Shoda, MWR's business operation officer here. "It's very comfortable and user-friendly. Having a brand new facility like is a great program and service for the community. I hope people utilize this place and get much out of it."
The Arts and Crafts Center is the only two-story facility in the complex. It was previously located in a building that was originally constructed in late 1950 and had provided the installation with a variety of services for more than 25 years. The new center includes a frame shop, balloon shop and wood shop on the first floor. A print shop, pottery shop and multi-craft classroom are located on the second floor. The new Arts and Crafts Center offers customers a wider selection of programs and services, Shoda said.
Shinto priests from the nearby Suzuka Myojin Shrine performed a traditional purification ceremony to bless the new building during the opening ceremony. Camp Zama representatives, including U.S. Army Garrison Commander Col. Eric Tilley, cut the ribbon to open the facility. More than 100 people later toured the inside of the new facility after the ceremony.
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