bliss NOW APR | MAY | JUN
CELEBRATE MILITARY KIDS
Breaking down walls | Opening up | Bouncing back with Family and MWR @blissmwr
SPRING 2021 | WWW.BLISS.ARMYMWR.COM APR | MAY | JUN
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MADE FOR THE MILITARY
For nearly 100 years, we’ve served military members. We not only understand your needs — we share your values. You’ll see it in our products and services tailored for military life.
Call 800-531-8521
™
No official U.S. Army endorsement is implied. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement by the Department of Defense. USAA means United Services Automobile Association and its affiliates. © 2019 USAA. 266289-1019-A
MCCASA Month of the Military Child, Child Abuse and Sexual Assault
#ALLINTOENDCHILDABUSE
drive-thru event OUR FIRST DUTY IS TO OUR NEXT GENERATION. april 17 // 1OAM-12PM
FREE EVENT // OPEN TO DoD ID CARD HOLDERS
ACS Parking lot
2494 RICKER RD. // enter on ricker rd.
T:10.75"
Free ACS Information Bags with Community Information for Parents and Toys for the Kids. The event will be kicked off on the Family Advocacy Program Facebook Page.
INFO: 915-568-9129
bliss.armymwr.com
blissNOW
BY FAMILY & MWR MARKETING
One World One Voice One Magazine
ONE GREAT STAFF Family and MWR Director Tony Lovett
Deputy Director, Plans & Special Events
William Ketcherside
Army Community Service Nancy Thomas-Mainor
Business Operations Ron Telles
Child & Youth Services Pat Smith
NAF Support Manager Indri O’Hara
Recreation & Sports Eric Hildreth
Marketing Manager
Michele Wiernicki
Marketing Assistant
Holly Lebejko
Editor/Writer
Natalie Hinojos
Graphic Designers Kenny Broomfield Raymond Sanchez
Visual Production Marketing
Chris Bohn
Sponsorship and Advertising Coordinator Marlo Brestar
Advertising Assistant Aneta Veedmont
Training Coordinator
Mary Estrada
Office Manager Martina Grise
BlissNOW is a Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation magazine published quarterly for activities on Fort Bliss, Texas. BlissNOW is mailed to all Fort Bliss homes inserted in welcome packets, and distributed to all Family and MWR facilities, along with the Fort Bliss Commissary, Post Exchange at Freedom Crossing, IHG Army Hotels Fort Bliss and the Personnel Processing Center. Circulation: 35,000 quarterly. The appearance of advertising does not constitute an endorsement by the U.S. Army, Department of Defense or federal government. The information in this issue is current at the time of publication; activities and events are subject to change without notice. Downloading of any social media apps is on a voluntary basis. DFMWR is not responsible for any negative consequences resulting in its use. For more information, call the individual facilities. Family and MWR Marketing is located in Building 12 Pershing Road Fort Bliss, TX 79916 and may be reached at 915-568-6741.
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VOLUME SEVENTEEN | ISSUE TWO
CELEBRATE MILITARY KIDS
Director’s
NOTE
Hello everyone! Spring has sprung and so has the team at Fort Bliss MWR! We are springing into action, ready to reopen, resume and restart the fun with holiday events like Easter-A-vaganza, Military Spouse Appreciation Day and holiday brunches. This spring issue of Bliss NOW will reveal all the great programming and events that we have planned for our Soldiers and Families. Take time in April to celebrate the military kids in your lives as we celebrate them during the Month of the Military Child. We know that you and your Families are ready to get out into the beautiful El Paso weather, so join us for events like String Fling Kite Fest and Aquapalooza. As always, we are approaching all of our events and facility reopenings cautiously and with the safety of our patrons and employees in mind. Continue to follow our social media and website for updates and new announcements and get ready for a year to remember with Fort Bliss MWR!
See you there!
TONY
Get your free copy of blissNOW magazine mailed directly to you. Email your name and address to: blissmwr@gmail.com **Disclaimer: Due to the current circumstances, events, programs and services may change. We appreciate your patience and understanding. Visit bliss.armymwr.com for updates or follow us on Facebook/BlissMWR. ** www.bliss.armymwr.com
CONTENTS
2021
APR | MAY | JUN
48
Pages full of absolute fun and endless POSSIBILITIES!
10
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
FEATURES
19 21 22 23 24 26
PCSing 101
ABOUT THE COVER
Fridays are even better now!
6 8 12 13 15 18
Just Try It
Special Thanks to our sponsors Shoot ’n score at Bullseye Grill
Spring Auto Care
Days of Honor
Bring your ‘A’ game
Jump in!
Rollin’ into Spring
Hold your Horses! Purse Bingo is back! The Compact
29 30 31 32 33 35
Splish, Splash!
We salute you!
VMIS 2.0
It’s a new look for SFRG Back to Basics
Reaching out a new way
April is the Month of the Military Child! Our military kids prove their resilience each and every day as they navigate the challenges of military life. That is why Fort Bliss MWR chose this issue to highlight all Military children for their strength, courage, excellence and adaptation to change.
REGULARS
4 9
Director’s Note
Milo
@blissmwr
38 40
Kids Zone
46
Family & MWR Phone Directory
Fort Bliss Maps
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Just try it Disc Golf, more than a sport! Happy Spring Everyone! I hope you are enjoying the season. I always look forward to springtime, the weather keeps improving and it’s getting warmer outside. It’s the perfect opportunity to get out in nature and enjoy plenty of outdoor activities! Have you ever heard of Disc Golf? I hadn’t heard of it myself, but one of my friends told me about it and it peaked my interest. It’s an alternative to golf, and it has been recognized as one of the fastest growing sports in the world. This intrigued me to just try it, and luckily Underwood Golf Complex is one of two places in El Paso that offers this course. Underwood Golf does not require advanced course booking, you can just walk-in and play. That’s how easy it gets! After arriving at Underwood Golf, the manager in charge, gave me and my friends a quick rundown on how to play the game. I have learned that unlike a normal Frisbee, which has a straight flight path, page 6
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golf discs have a smaller diameter and are more aerodynamicallydesigned, which causes them to have more of a right-to-left or left-to-right flight pattern. The game itself is quite easy — like golf — the goal is to hit the target with the least amount of throws. You start off on a green patch or a tee pad and throw the disc towards a target — a chained basket. It’s pretty impressive if you make it on the first shot, because the targets are pretty far. However, if you don’t make it, you simply walk over to where your disc landed and throw from there. Sound familiar? Yeah, it’s just like golf! After a few warm up shots off the first tee, we began our round and made our way through the course. We played the 18-hole course and enjoyed it tremendously! The game took us over 2 hours to www.bliss.armymwr.com
finish with three of us playing. You can also choose a 9-hole course, if you prefer a shorter game. I have to say, for my first experience with disc golf, it was a real joy! This sport is much friendlier to newcomers than regular golf. I enjoyed the simplicity of this game — someone who has never thrown a Frisbee in their entire life, can simply pick up a disc and throw it without too much trouble. I am an active person in general, and I appreciated the fact that this sport includes a lot of walking in between the shots, which kept me active most of time. It’s also a great source of exercise — both your lower and upper body muscle groups work together to power the throw. What I also like about this sport is that anyone can play it regardless of your fitness level. It’s economical too, the cost to play is $5, but an additional cost applies if you would like to rent a cart for the 9- or 18-hole course. Also like golf, there are different discs to use, such as a putter, mid-range and driver, but that’s if you’re a professional disc golfer. As for my newbie friends and me, we only used one or two discs. I brought my own, that I purchased at a local sports store. Underwood Golf has an option of disc rental, but I advise to call and check with the facility if the rental option is currently offered. The best experiences happen when you are having fun, and we had a load of laughs just trying to hit the target. If you are looking for something new and easy to learn, it may be the sport for you. If you would like to experience a
fun outdoors activity, bring your friends or family for a good time together. After the game, you may want to grab a delicious breakfast, lunch or a drink at the Golden Tee restaurant. What’s not to enjoy? For more information about disc golf, the breakfast/lunch menu or the latest updates about the Underwood Golf Complex programs, call 915-5681059 or visit www.bliss.armymwr.com. Until next time,
Aneta
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR BY MARLO BRESTAR FAMILY & MWR SPONSORSHIP & ADVERTISING
What a year it has been! We had to figure out how to keep our partners engaged while providing safe and entertaining activities for our Soldiers and their Families. Here in the sponsorship office, we have amazing and wonderful organizations that support us for the benefit of the entire Fort Bliss Community. We appreciate each and every one of them, but we would like take this opportunity to personally thank a few. USAA for allowing us the flexibility to allocate monies where they were most needed, and specifically for the amazing Fourth of July fireworks display that would not have happened without their support. ASUS (Fort Bliss Water) for continuing to support such programs as Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) and Survivor Outreach Services (SOS), which are near and dear to our hearts, along with other programming. Boingo for providing much needed supplies for quarantined Soldier cohorts, as well as, holiday
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meals for single Soldiers. E.P. Dentistry 4 Kids and Phoenix Truck Driving School at Fort Bliss for giving us constant support when we reach out with a last minute requests. Academy Sports and Outdoors for supplying gift cards for giveaways and backpacks for our Backto- School drive thru. Refuel Agency for an on-going partnership, numerous accounts and unwavering support. Freedom Crossing for fruitful collaboration for the greater good of the Fort Bliss Community. Last but definitely not least, a special acknowledgement and thank you to each entity that supports us. We could not do what we do for our Soldiers and Families without your immense commitment and support. Together, we made it through the challenging 2020 year, and we are looking forward to partnering with each and every one of you this year. We cannot wait to see all of your wonderful faces!
www.bliss.armymwr.com
You can visit El Paso Humane Society's website to see their current wish list, but some of the most needed items include: • Petmate (carrier) two door top load 24” • Small digital food scales (measures grams & ounces) • Heating pads with a stay-on feature • Fortiflora probiotics for cats and dogs • Puppy wet food (Pedigree) • Wet kitten food (Fancy Feast kitten or Friskies paté) • Cat litter
I call that a win, win! In other exciting news, there is an abundance of great trails in El Paso and nearby New Mexico. I have put a list together of some of my favorite pet-friendly places to go with my humans. It’s PAWSITIVELY amazing and I hope to see you there! Rio Bosque Wetland Park, you will forget you are in the desert at this 372-acre City of El Paso Park. It is managed through the Center for Environmental Resource management at University of Texas at El Hello friends, Paso (UTEP). Milo here, your favorite Fort Three Hills Nature Trail, a 4.3 mile loop trail located Bliss MWR mascot! Guess what … near El Paso that offers the chance to see wildlife and I am turning 6 this year! is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for I would love everyone to help hiking and nature trips. me celebrate with a drive by Rio Grande River Trail, a 10.5-mile stretch of the birthday parade! I will developing Rio Grande River Trail begins near the be celebrating outside Texas/New Mexico border and continues south, the MWR Marketing connecting the Texas communities of Anthony, building, located at Bldg. Vinton, Canutillo and El Paso. Along the way, 12 Pershing Road with you’ll enjoy wide open desert vistas and views of the all my friends from MWR Franklin Mountains. The best access to this trail is Marketing & Special Events from Mary Frances Keisling Park. and Fort Bliss Veterinary Lost Dog Trailhead, a 7.7 mile moderately trafficked Services Saturday, April 24 loop trail located near El Paso that offers the chance to from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. see wildlife and is rated as moderate. Join us for my PAWTY! The Pat O’Rourke Memorial Hike and Bike Trail, a 4.3 first 200 vehicles will receive a mile lightly trafficked out and back trail located near free pup cake/cookie, a birthday hat El Paso, Texas that offers scenic views and is good for and other goodies. There will be music, all skill levels. treats and most importantly FUN! I Lazy Cow Trail, a 6.8 mile moderately trafficked out can’t wait to celebrate with you. and back trail located near El Paso, Texas that features Instead of gifts for me, if you beautiful wild flowers and is good for all skill levels. are looking to give back to our There are still more great trails in El Paso and nearby wonderful community, we will have New Mexico to try, I only covered a few. Stay healthy, El Paso Humane Society on-site to live long and PAWSPER! take donations. Although it is not Paws & Kisses, required, it would be great if you are able to donate. It’s easy as pie, we retrieve your donation and in return, we give you some goodies. @blissmwr
APR | MAY | JUN
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n u F d o o F t s a F BY EDWARD ARRIOLA FAMILY & MWR SPECIAL EVENTS
We live in a day and age where people’s lives are constantly moving. We want everything faster; from our transportation to the way we get our information, and yes, even our food. This time Tasha taught me to make one of my fast food favorites! The crunch wrap is an easy to make, handheld marvel that is amazing for anyone’s fast pace schedule. My creative skills were put to the test yet again, the cooking was easy enough, especially for someone with my skill level. I masterfully cooked the beef in a pan, added taco seasoning, while simultaneously cooking the refried beans, pro status, if I do say so myself. Okay … that’s not exactly how it went. Tasha cooked the beans, while I took care of the beef — I had no intention of accidentally burning down a kitchen. Assembly seemed to be where I shined, this is where you can get your children involved and have some fun. Your basic ingredients are flour tortillas, ground beef, refried beans, crunchy tostadas and all the extras you would like to add. I personally like to add tomatoes, lettuce, cheese and sour cream. This is a layering process; first you start with a large flour tortilla base and add a thin layer of cooked meat. Then, place a crunchy tostada with the refried beans spread on top of it — the refried beans should be facing up. Here’s where you can add page 10
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and subtract ingredients to fit you — sprinkle the lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and spread the sour cream onto a precut circular piece of the flour tortilla. The precut piece needs to be the size of the tostada, because the base flour tortilla isn’t large enough to close up the wrap. Once your layering is done, fold the ends of the base flour tortilla towards the center. Once you close up your creation, fry it in a light coat of oil on medium heat until it is a bit crispy on both sides. Be careful, not to it leave on for too long, it fries up quickly. This is truly a delectable snack, simple to make with a crunch. If you are like me and don’t like to waste the excess flour tortillas that you precut, here’s a neat little trick. Chop the excess flour tortillas into little squares or triangles and fry them in some oil. As soon as they are crispy and golden brown, take them out and coat with cinnamon and sugar. Now you have a sweet treat ready to eat! These treats are similar to Cinnamon Toast Crunch. I am really enjoying my cooking journey! I have learned some new skills and have started to experiment on my own. I find it hard to cook for only one, which is one of the reasons I waited so long to take on this task. The great thing about this recipe is how easy it is to make for a family dinner or even a snack on the go. So, go on and give it a shot, but hey that’s just food for thought! @blissmwr
Amounts vary depending on taste, but standard package sizes and 1 lb. of beef makes 5 wraps. • Ground beef • Taco seasoning • Refried beans • Extra-large flour tortillas • Tostada shells • Vegetable Oil Add or subtract ingredients to your liking. • Iceberg lettuce • Roma Tomato • Shredded cheese • Sour cream
scan here to watch video
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BY HOLLY LEBEJKO FAMILY & MWR MARKETING
Have you ever wanted to experience dining in a hunters lodge in the middle of the desert? The Bullseye Grill has you covered! Hungry for breakfast? Select something tasty off the Buckshot Breakfast menu to start your day off right! Any of the six “shooter” specials will fill you up! Looking for something lighter? Check out the side arms and breakfast favorites off the griddle. Not an early bird, but cravin’ breakfast items? No worries! Breakfast is served any time the kitchen is open. Lunch time! The Longshot Lunch might be for you, offering a variety of hot and cold sandwiches, salads, burgers, game and sides; the options are endless. If you’ve never tried game before give the elk and buffalo burgers a shot, you won’t be disappointed with these crowd favorites. Whether you are having breakfast or lunch, you will have a choice of hot or cold beverages, such as coffee, fountain soda and a variety of bottled beverages. If you’re watching your waistline, don’t stress. The Bullseye Grill offers many items less than 500 calories on the “Healthy Army Communities” Menu. For the budget conscious family, or extra hungry group, the Bullseye Grill now offers Lunch Bundles. Patrons can choose between two bundles that include four complete meals. Bundle one includes four meals of a cheeseburger, fries and a fountain soda for $25.95. Have more than four in your group? It’s only $6.95 per person for each additional meal. Bundle two includes four meals of a cheeseburger, hotdog, fries and a fountain soda for $31.95. This bundle offers an additional meal for only $7.95. The covered patio offers you an opportunity to sit back and enjoy your meals while watching the shooters. They also offer cold drinks and snacks to enjoy out on the range. The Bullseye Grill is now open to enjoy breakfast and lunch at any time! The Bullseye Grill is located inside the Rod & Gun Club at 3730 Roy Johnson Lane. For more information, call 915-568-2983. page 12
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www.bliss.armymwr.com
ROLLIN’ INTO SPRING INTO SPRING BY ROBIN FOX
FAMILY & MWR ART & HOBBY
Let’s face it, 2020 was a real drag for most of us. Well, tighten your seat belts, for the upcoming Joes, Joe & Wheelz! This is a spring car show presented by Fort Bliss MWR Auto Crafts Center and the Soldier Recovery Unit! Head on over April 24 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to the park located at the corner of Marshall and Cassidy roads, right next to Auto Crafts, 820 Marshall Road. Vehicles will be on display along with additional activities held inside and outside the auto shop. Categories for the showcase include classic, custom, rat rod, and electric/ solar/clean energy cars and motorcycles, with trophies for winning participants in each category. Joes, Joe & Wheelz will also highlight the services and experiences regularly offered at the Auto Crafts Shop, and its sister program, the Art and Hobby Shop. It will include food trucks, kid-friendly activities, arts and crafts and a dynamometer. Due to COVID-19 restrictions and to ensure maximum safety, attendees must wear face masks at all times. The Fort Bliss MWR Art & Hobby-Auto Crafts Shop will provide hand washing and sanitizing stations during the event for your convenience. Please be advised that based on current guidance concerning COVID-19, this event may be postponed, cancelled or held virtually. Off-post sponsored spectators are welcome, call the Fort Bliss Visitor Center for additional information regarding getting on post. If you would like to volunteer at the event, call the Auto Crafts Shop at 915-568-5563/7280. @blissmwr
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! h c Brun Join us for
Easter Brunch • Sunday, April 4th Mother’s Day Brunch • Sunday, May 9th Father’s Day Brunch • Sunday, June 20th
Enjoy a spectacular served breakfast buffet and never-ending lunch at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center. The cost is $21.95 for adults, $10.95 for children ages, 5-10 and free for children ages 4 and younger. Buffet includes complementary champagne, mimosas and wine. Reservations can be made from 10am-1pm and are required. For more information or make a reservation, call 915-744-8427. **Centennial Banquet and Conference Center will be following proper CDC guidelines. Please remember to wear face masks and social distance.**
Hold your horses!
Purse Bingo is back!
BY NATALIE HINOJOS
FAMILY & MWR MARKETING
All right ladies, place your bets for the Kentucky Derby Purse bingo! Yes! Designer Handbag Bingo is back and ready to take on the reins to show you a good time at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center! We have more than 20 designer purses up for grabs with each purse carrying varying amounts of money inside, ranging from $25 to $250! Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 1, doors open at 9 a.m. and the game will start at 12 p.m. If you get here early, you’ll have a chance to win additional prizes! There will be food and beverages available for purchase. Tickets are $35 which include your initial bingo paper pack. Or treat yourself with a VIP
@blissmwr
ticket for $50 which includes your initial paper pack and a bingo dauber, treats, a drawing ticket, party favors and reserved seating. Additional packs will be available at the door and extra games can be bought throughout the event. Electronic bingo machines will also be available for purchase and could help increase your odds, you never know! Electronics can be purchased along with your ticket, while supplies last. Ticket sales start April 5 through April 30 at Centennial Banquet and Conference Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., you can purchase them over the phone or in person. Remember space is limited, be sure to buy your tickets early, once they are gone … they’re gone like the wind! If tickets are still available, they can be purchased at the door on a first-come, first-serve basis and the cost will be $40. VIP tickets are not available at the door. So, come on down to the Derby purse bingo, enjoy a day out with friends, order a mint julep and hopefully win extra cash with a new purse! Designer Handbag Bingo is open to DoD ID cardholders and their guests, ages 18 and older only. Children, ages 17 and younger, are not allowed at this event; this is a fun afternoon just for you! Make sure to have your ticket and your ID with you at the door. As for safety precautions, Centennial Banquet and Conference Center will be following CDC guidelines, you must properly be wearing a face mask and social distance. For more information or to buy your tickets, call 915-744-8427.
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The Compact
Providing educational opportunities for Military children BY DEBORAH FETZER
PROGRAM OPERATIONS FOR YOUTH AND SCHOOLS
When Military children move they already face many challenges like leaving friends and having to make new ones, getting used to a new school and a new city, fitting in, trying out for sports, and much more. Repeated moves and frequently changing schools can also pose challenges to academic success and achievement. Fortunately, The Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children, “The Compact,” removes many of the barriers to academic success. The Compact is an agreement between states that ‘levels the playing field’ for Military children and gives them more opportunities for educational success. It has been adopted by all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and is enacted via a memorandum of understanding for Department of Defense Educational Activity (DoDEA) schools so regardless of where a student transitions to or from; the provisions of The Compact protect them. There is significant need to ensure children of Military families are afforded the same opportunities for educational success as other children and are not penalized or delayed in achieving their educational goals. The Compact addresses the following issues: Records and Enrollment Under the Compact agreement, schools must share educational records in order to expedite proper enrollment and placement of students. States should give 30 days to obtain appropriate immunizations in the gaining state. Students in Kindergarten and first grade shall be allowed to continue their enrollment at grade level in the receiving state commensurate with their grade level from the sending state. Placement and Attendance For course placement, the receiving state school shall initially
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honor placement in educational courses based on the student’s enrollment in the sending state school if the courses are offered. For special education services, the receiving state shall initially provide comparable services to a student with disabilities based on his/her current Individualized Education Program (IEP); and the receiving state shall make reasonable accommodations and modifications to address the needs of incoming students with disabilities, subject to an existing 504 or Title II Plan. School districts shall be given greater flexibility to grant excused absences to students for visitation with a parent or legal guardian, who are Active-Duty and who are impacted by deployment. Eligibility School district can not charge tuition to a Military child placed in care of a non-custodial parent. A Military child placed in care of a non-custodial parent, may continue to attend their enrolled school, while residing with the custodial parent. State and local education agencies should have an easy transition or Military children to be included in extracurricular activities to the extent they are otherwise qualified. Graduation If you have students, who are seniors, waiver requirements and exit exams may be simple to transition to their new school. Receiving schools may waive specific courses required for graduation if similar course work has been satisfactorily completed in the sending state. Exit exams provide a more uniform standard for how exit or end-of-course exams, national norm-referenced achievement tests, or other alternative tests impact students who are approaching graduation. Transfers during senior year, allows the receiving state to work with the sending state to permit the student to graduate with a diploma from the latter if the receiving state has exhausted all of its options under the compact and is unable to grant a diploma. For more information, regarding the Interstate Compact, call the School Liaison Office (SLO) at 915569-5064, via email at usarmy.bliss.imcom-fmwrc. mbx.school-liaison-office. The SLO is located at Bldg. 505 Pershing Road, hours of operation are 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. www.bliss.armymwr.com
PCSING 101 “on the road again …” BY CHER ROUMELL FAMILY & MWR ACS RELOCATION READINESS
Are you hearing the words to that all too famous song by Willie Nelson, “On the Road Again.” Well, it’s quickly approaching peak season for Permanent Change of Station (PCS). Hopefully, by now you have received your Request for Orders (RFO) and you are waiting to do your levy briefing in hopes of receiving your orders within 7 to 10 business days, pending any delays such as your Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) clearance, etc. Reminder, did you fill out your 5434 Request for Sponsor? This is a requirement and something that should ease the transition for you and your Family. Have you heard from your designated sponsor at your next duty station? If not, be pro-active. Call your gaining unit and ask questions, request a P.O. Box, especially if you are going overseas. Let them @blissmwr
know your arrival information and whether or not you need a ride. Don’t forget to mention that you will have your spouse, three children and two dogs. This will ensure they don’t bring a tiny sports car, as opposed to a unit van to pick you up. Make your own reservations for your arrival at the hotel on your installation, and don’t forget to ask if they are pet friendly. Each installation is different, whether overseas or stateside, a vital question to ask is, “Are there any restrictions or quarantines required at your gaining installation?” Visit Army Community Service (ACS) and speak with your friendly neighborhood Relocation Readiness counselor to help ease the transition and put you in contact with resources at your gaining installation. So take a deep breath … hum along with, “On the road again… Just can’t wait to get on the road again … Goin’ places that I’ve never been … Seein’ things that I may never see again … And I can’t wait to get on the road again…” APR | MAY | JUN
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FRIDAYS ARE EVEN
BETTER NOW! BY IGNACIA (TRISHA) OLVERA
FAMILY & MWR REPLICA YOUTH CENTER (RYC)
Fort Bliss Child & Youth Services (CYS) is now offering Friday Fun, an online program that invites students, ages 11 through 18, to take part in art, craft and science activities at home. Friday Fun will have interactive activities such as origami, sewing, painting, drawing, and sculpting. There will be easy to do science activities that can be done in the kitchen. Replica Youth Center (RYC) will provide most of the materials and instructions needed for the interactive video project. Interested students can drive up with their parents on Wednesdays from 3 to
4:30 p.m. at RYC, located at 5037 Sheridan Road. This program is open to DoD ID cardholders and is offered on a first-come, first-served basis. The videos will be available on both the Milam and Replica Youth Center’s Facebook pages at https://www.facebook.com/MilamYAC/ or https:// www.facebook.com/FortBlissTeens every Friday. Whether you are here at Fort Bliss, transitioning in, or departing on a new journey, Fort Bliss CYS Friday Fun is looking forward to bringing more enjoyment into your home every week! We can’t wait to “see” you online! For more information, call RYC at 915-568-3526.
SPRING AUTO CARE
Check Windshield This is also a good time to check the windshield for dings and the wipers for wear and tear. Have them repaired or replaced if needed. Check Maintenance Check the alignment and suspension, tire pressure and mileage, to gauge any necessary flushes. To see when to check on oil changes, tire rotation or repairs, see chart for mileage guidelines. Fort Bliss Auto Crafts offers a thorough bumperBY ROBIN FOX FAMILY & MWR AUTO CRAFTS to-bumper service to help you spot any extra vehicle In the spring, people find it difficult to nudge their concerns that, if left unattended, could derail way out of hibernation mode. spring time travel plans — that’s no fun. The fee Spring cleaning is always a great way to get ready for the bumper to bumper service is $40. For more for the new season. Usually, inspiration gets pretty information, call Auto Crafts at 915-568-7280. exciting when planning for all the fun and travel to be had in the warmer weeks to come. In anticipation of those outside adventures, make sure you take FLUID/PARTS MILEAGE a few moments to spring clean your vehicle. Make Change every 3,000-5,000 miles sure it’s ready to support you and your family in your Oil Change upcoming plans. Here are a few tips to get you started. Transmission Fluid Change at 30,000-60,000 miles Wash Vehicle Winter weather can be a bit harsh on the exterior. Coolant/Antifreeze Change at 30,000 miles Give your vehicle a good scrub and wax to protect the Change at 24,000-36,000 miles finish and touch up any nicks or dings that may have Brake Fluid happened over the colder months. Power Steering Fluid Change at 30,000-60,000 miles Detail Interior Change at 12,000-15,000 miles Have the interior detailed to keep up with any Air Filter necessary interior issues that you may have overlooked Done at 3,000-6,000 miles Tire Rotation during the winter weather.
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BY HOLLY LEBEJKO
FAMILY & MWR MARKETING
There are many misunderstandings about certain holidays honoring our military service members. Here are some tips to know whether you are celebrating, honoring or remembering during these government holidays. ARMED FORCES DAY Honoring those currently serving in the Armed Forces. What: Armed Forces Day was created in 1949 by the Secretary of Defense, Louis Johnson. It replaced separate days that honored various branches of the military (Army, Air Force and Navy) and was intended to “expand public understanding of what type of job is performed and the role of the military in civilian life.” Armed Forces Day is celebrated with parades, displaying the flag and often by volunteering or making donations. Who: All who currently serve and all who have served, both active and former, in the reserves, National Guard or on active duty, including the Coast Guard. When: The third Saturday in May. Extra Fact: Why is Armed Forces Day in May? Armed Forces Day lands right in the heart of National Military Appreciation Month. It begins May 1 with Loyalty Day and includes Public Service Recognition Week – a week to celebrate government employees, Victory in Europe Day (VE), Military Spouse Appreciation Day, and Armed Forces Week (the third week in May), leading up to Armed Forces Day. The month of military appreciation concludes with Memorial Day. MEMORIAL DAY Honoring those who died in military service.
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When: The last Monday in May. What: Memorial Day was originally known as
Decoration Day. The holiday roots back to the post-Civil War era when citizens would informally create spring flower memorials on the graves of fallen Soldiers. Today, it is celebrated annually on the last Monday in May to honor those who gave their lives in military service to our nation. The wearing of red poppies is a common way to honor those who have passed. Extra Fact: The practice of wearing of poppies takes its origin from the poem, “In Flanders Fields,” written in 1915 by John McCrae. VETERANS DAY Honoring all living or deceased who served in the military, whether in peace or wartime. When: Celebrated annually on Nov. 11. What: Veterans Day is formerly known as Armistice Day. It coincides with similar observances in Great Britain, Australia and Canada that all commemorate the armistice that went into effect on Nov. 11, 1918, ending the fighting between the Allies and Germany. In the U.S., Veterans Day specifically honors all former members of the U.S. military. The proper spelling is, “Veterans Day.” It does not include an apostrophe, but does include an ‘s’ at the end of veterans, because it is not a day that belongs to one veteran, it is a day for honoring all veterans. Extra Fact: Why do some schools close and others remain in session on Veterans Day? There is no legal requirement that schools close on Veterans Day, individual states or school districts are free to establish their own policies on school closings.
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BRING Y ‘A’ GAME! BY FAMILY & MWR MISSION ESSENTIAL FITNESS (MEF)
Have you ever heard of Mission Essential Fitness (MEF)? No? Well it is a Fort Bliss Department of Human Performance mission-side unit physical training (PT) program designed to enhance the physical preparation of today’s Soldier. Ironworks Gym West and Ironworks Gym East run the MEF program. This high intensity interval training (HIIT) circuit is designed to meet the needs of Soldiers for muscle strength, endurance and power. The program improves PT scores for Soldiers and incorporates the exercises from the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT), as well as, many others such as barbell, dumbbell, kettlebell, and body weight exercises. Soldiers go through three rounds of the circuit, working for one minute and recovering for 30 seconds, before moving to the next exercise. It’s a 45-minute workout, ideal for unit PT for platoon size and bigger. MEF is available through reservation at each Ironworks gym, currently the capacity is for a single unit up to 50 Soldier maximum. Unit training is given priority gym usage time. To reserve a time at Ironworks Gym East, call 915-744-5201 or Ironworks Gym West at 915-568-2892. If you’re an Active-Duty Soldier, who does weight training, why not try the continuously running Fort Bliss 1000 Pound Club? This is done at your convenience Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. To become a member, all you have to do is pay $30 at the Soto Physical Fitness Center (PFC) snack bar and bring the receipt to either
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YOUR ! Ironworks gym location to do the test. The test is Squat, Bench, and Deadlift for one repetition each exercise. The total for all three lifts will determine where on the board you’ll place. You will receive a Fort Bliss 1000-Pound Club T-shirt with the corresponding poundage and a nameplate on the facility’s board. Keep a look out for upcoming events in the fall with the Fort Bliss Department of Human Performance. The Annual Fort Bliss Strongman and Strongwoman Competition should resume in the fall of 2021, stay updated with either Ironworks Gyms for more information. The competition will take place on the turf field next to Soto PFC and will include log press, farmer’s walk, tire flip, and truck pull to determine the Fort Bliss’ Strongest Man and Woman! Also, Dia de Los Deadlifts, a deadlifting competition will take place mid-October until Nov. 2, 2021. This event is conducted in the same process as the 1000 Pound club. Register to participate and come in when you’re ready to bring your ‘A’ game! Ironworks East is located at T2070 Anzio Way and Ironworks West is located at 2996 Cassidy Road. For more information, call Ironworks East at 915-744-5201 or Ironworks West at 915-5682892.
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BY ANGELINA PARRIS WHEELER AND CHARLES ARMENDARIZ FAMILY & MWR AQUATIC CENTERS
n! @blissmwr
Splash into TWENTY TWENTY-ONEderful! The pools are open and entrance is free! 2020 can take a dip and 2021 will float above the rest with new aquatic programming coming in waves! We’ve all had our share of challenges this past year and the swimming pools were in the depths of it. The past swim season was filled with disappointment: limited programming, facility restrictions, mask mandates and no summer pool fun. This left the aquatics team with a bummer summer! However, Fort Bliss swam it’s way to the top by finding innovated ways to keep the pools open for Active Duty, retirees and adult DoD ID cardholders. Aquatic facility operations will continue to follow all COVID guidance, as we move forward in the hopes of opening with more capacity soon! Fort Bliss MWR’s aquatic centers are here to accommodate your fitness needs for 2021! Fort Bliss offers 18 and older lap swimming, by reservation, at two major indoor pools. To make a reservation, call either Aquatics Training Center (ATC) or Replica Pool. One day in advance is required. Looking to do unit military training such as Combat Water Survival Training (CWST) and swim testing? For more information about CWTS, call ATC at 915-744-5901. The ATC, located on East Bliss, is a one-of-akind indoor aquatic training facility housing three different pools. The Olympic sized 50-meter lap pool is two pools in one! Separated by a bulkhead, making two 25-meter pools, eight lanes are available for lap swimming. The
13ft diving well and multi-purpose pool with a zero depth entry is open for military training through email request only (climbing wall and diving board are currently closed). Replica Pool, located on main post, is an indoor swimming facility featuring an Olympic-sized 50-meter pool with four lanes available. All indoor pool hours extend from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday and Sunday with modified hours for training and federal holidays. At this time, the two seasonal outdoor facilities are unavailable, but are tentatively projected to open by summer 2021. Keep a look out for year-round events happening at both aquatic centers. There’s the 100-Mile Swim Club, track your miles and win a prize when you join the club! You’ll receive a t-shirt if you complete the 100 miles and prizes will be awarded for the top three individuals with the most miles by Dec. 31, 2021. Let’s not forget about the monthly Aqua Challenge! Every month pick a distance and challenge yourself in the pool! It’s $5 per challenge, per person. You must complete the distance of your choice for a prize, you’ll receive a certificate of completion, distance coin and goodie bag. Sign up at either aquatic centers, credit or debit can only be accepted. If you’re looking to for a job, make your splash in 2021! Both aquatic centers are hiring recreation aids and lifeguards, visit usajobs. gov. For more information, call ATC at 915-7415901 or Replica Pool at 915-568-7431. APR | MAY | JUN
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Saturday,
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m o c . r w m y m s.ar s i l b r o 7 4 2 8-8 8 5 5 1 9 : o f In
BY NATALIE HINOJOS FAMILY & MWR MARKETING
The sun is starting to shine more and more! With warmer days ahead, Biggs Park is getting ready to open up their newest addition … The Splash Pad! Currently under construction, the Splash Pad is moving quickly to get ready for the summer! It will have three sections, a toddler bay, family bay and pre-teen bay. Each section will have different activities for the whole family to enjoy. There’s even going to be a dumping bucket! What’s a dumping bucket, you ask? Water will fill a large suspended bucket and when it’s heavy enough, it will pour on everyone who’s standing below it, what fun! Along with the water bucket, there will be 18 to 20 other features like ground sprayers, and pole sprayers. The best part of the Splash Pad addition is that it’s FREE to use! There are also no capacity limitations like the old Splash Park. So, how is all this possible? Thanks to the Fort Bliss Quality Recycling Program, MWR received over $750K to remove the old structure and create this new, awesome addition to Biggs Park. “Because of the great job the Fort Bliss Community does utilizing recycling, projects like this can be built,” said Eric Hildreth, chief of Community Recreation Division (CRD). “It’s projected to open Memorial weekend.” “This new Splash
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Park is a reflection of how the Fort Bliss community cares for the environment. It is the result of what our community can accomplish when we all RECYCLE RIGHT! The proceeds from recycling were provided to Family, Morale, Welfare & Recreation to build this Spray Park to enhance the quality of life for our Soldiers and Families,” said Terri Smythe, Fort Bliss Recycling project manager. “The Fort Bliss Qualified Recycling Program Committee members thank all of those who continue to do their part and recycle right! So remember, ‘if the container is blue, place paper, cardboard (flattened), plastics and tin in any blue recycling bin.’ Because the more recycling you do, the more comes back to you in other projects and activities.” The Splash Pad will be following COVID-19 guidelines for the safety of all patrons. The hours of operation will be from 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Get ready to head to the park for some cool water fun!
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We salute you BY TEPHANIE HOPPER
FAMILY & MWR VOLUNTEER CORPORATION
There are many reasons why volunteers give their time and talent to worthwhile causes, but one is supreme … They care. They care about the sick. They care about our kids. They care about Single Soldiers. They care about Families. They care about their neighborhood. They care about the city. They care about their state. They care about our nation. Because they care, we SALUTE them. We salute volunteers for helping to distribute food at local food banks. We salute them
for coaching little league, we salute them for teaching religious classes, and we salute them being there and caring for the sick at our local hospitals. You too, can earn a salute by making a difference. Regardless of your age or situation, you can also have a positive influence on someone’s life. The simple act of visiting with a veteran in a retirement home or serving food to the homeless, or walking a dog will show that you care for others in the community. Volunteering provides us with the opportunity to get involved in a cause that we are passionate about and provides the chance to look beyond our situations and appreciate what others are experiencing. The difference that you will make in someone else’s life will make an even more significant difference in yours. During volunteer week, April 18-24, SALUTE a volunteer and show them you care!
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Visit one of our two El Paso locations Sunland Park |www.bliss.armymwr.com The Fountains
BY TEPHANIE HOPPER FAMILY & MWR VOLUNTEER CORPORATION
It has been a long time coming, but the modernized Volunteer Management Information System (VMIS) is finally here. Let us look at what has changed with VMIS. The first change is the website where VMIS is found. Now located at armyfamilywebportal.com, volunteers can create new accounts or transition accounts that are already established. There are three ways to access VMIS, which means there are three levels of change. The first level of change is from the volunteer perspective. The process of getting to and entering hours has been simplified and streamlined with a Volunteer Dashboard. The Volunteer Dashboard provides several resources to volunteers. These resources include a Notifications area and an hours chart representing the volunteer’s current number of submitted, approved, and rejected hours for the month. An additional feature is the Opportunities page, which allows volunteers to search for and apply for various volunteer opportunities within multiple communities and organizations. Volunteers can sort and filter opportunities, and they can browse opportunities without creating a VMIS account. The second level of change is the Organization Point of Contact (OPOC). The OPOC has a responsibility to regulate volunteer applications and hours. The OPOC has the control to accept or decline volunteers per their unit or organization access. A first feature
is the OPOC Administrator dashboard, which allows OPOCs easy accessibility to certify or reject hours using the administrator table. A second feature of the VMIS modernization is the Organization Charts which summarizes the volunteer hours and positions for each of the OPOC’s assigned organizations. Different communities and organizations can be selected to change the information that will populate the charts. The final level of change is through the Army Volunteer Corps Coordinator (AVCC). Modernized VMIS has made it easier to add OPOCs to VMIS by merely adding them through their email. Moreover, the modernize VMIS has incorporated a Peoples page that allows AVCCs to view OPOCs, volunteers, and relevant information for those people. From this page, an AVCC can export a list of people, email users, edit user information, and add new users. However, that is not all, there are many new features to modernize VMIS but to learn about them register for the site at armyfamilywebportal.com or for the VMIS classes on bliss.armymwr.com.
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BY WENDY RAMOS FAMILY & MWR ARMY COMMUNITY SERVICE (ACS)
The Army began to make changes to the Soldier and Family Readiness Group (SFRG) previously known as the Family Readiness Group (FRG) in April 2019. These changes are the first of its kind since 1990 following the first Gulf War. Units, Soldiers, Families and Civilians all sacrifice and serve our nation. The nation appreciates and recognizes the challenges military life places upon all those engaged on the battlefield and on the home front. The Army’s focus is on readiness, modernization and reform and the SFRG is a critical part of this reform. The name change to SFRG was to link the Soldier’s readiness to the Family. By doing this, it ensures that commanders will incorporate all unit personnel — including single Soldiers and their Families — into the community network of the SFRG. The purpose of the SFRG is to create a network of communication, support and community resources, to guarantee all Soldiers and Family members remain steadfast and ready at all times. The commanders are responsible for executing the SFRG mission by providing Soldiers
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and their Families with official and accurate command information, and connecting them to the chain of command with support between the command SFRG members. Commanders must also connect SFRG members to available community resources both on- and off-post and offer a network of mutual support. Although change can be difficult, adapting and being flexible is the way of military life. The success of the unit SFRG is what members make of it. A successful SFRG can help foster an environment of support, a network of communication and it can provide a foundation of commitment, resilience and endurance for sustaining the mission on the home front and battlefields. If you are interested in diving further into the changes, or wanting to volunteer for your units SFRG, Army Community Service (ACS) welcomes you to attend any or all of the SFRG trainings. To register, visit bliss.armymwr.com, search SFRG or for more information, call 915569-5500. We look forward to seeing you!
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Back to Basics Enhance your skills in Army culture with AFTB BY TAMMY HERRERA FAMILY & MWR AFTB AND AFAP
Living within the Army culture can be as challenging as it is rewarding. The Army Family Team Building (AFTB) training exists with the purpose of transporting pre-military life knowledge into a simple understanding of how to handle oneself around Army culture. AFTB offers classes that give you the skills to be a resilient, self-sufficient, and self-reliant member of the Army community. Here at AFTB we know that making time to take a class can be hard … so we are making it easy for you! AFTB presents … Back to Basics. These classes will give participants the chance to learn and earn certificates without giving up 2 to 3 days of their time. After attending AFTB classes, the participants will learn how to maneuver through daily challenges, grow through self-development and experience resilience modules. They will also be able to expand their leadership skills with effective communication techniques and learn how to mentor others. The classes start in April and will run through December. If Back to Basics is not what you are looking for, AFTB also offers Concept Blocks. These are 3-hour classes that teach you problem solving skills, how to decipher acronyms, family preparedness and more. AFTB also offers their Level I, II, and III classes by request. Are you struggling with managing virtual meetings? Join AFTB for the new Virtual Meeting: Tips & Techniques class! It will teach you strategies to effectively manage a virtual meeting. AFTB has something for everyone. We can tailor the classes to meet the needs of units, SFRGs, and organizations. To schedule classes, call 915569-5409 or visit bliss.armymwr.com, search “AFTB.”
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FORT BLISS CAMPUS
LOCAL AND ONLINE CLASSES
ENROLLING NOW! (915) 562-8450 ftbl@park.edu
PARK.EDU APR | MAY | JUN No official U.S. Army endorsement is implied.
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GETTING TO KNOW
Getting to Know ACS is available as an audio podcast on every major platform!
Scan here to subscribe on Spotify.
YOUR KEY TO UNLOCKING ALL OF YOUR ARMY BENEFITS YOU DIDN’T KNOW YOU HAVE ACCESS TO. SPEAK TO ADVISORS TO BETTER YOUR FINANCIAL SITUATION. LEARN ABOUT INTEREST FREE LOANS AND GRANTS.
BUILD PERFECT RESUME TO GAIN EMPLOYMENT. UTILIZE THE LENDING CLOSET TO FURNISH YOUR HOME WITH ESSENTIAL ITEMS.
PLUS SO MUCH MORE, TUNE IN WEEKLY FOR INSIDER SCOOP!
Reaching out in a new way BY FAMILY & MWR ARMY COMMUNITY SERVICE (ACS)
Do you know what services are offered at Army Community Service? Did you know ACS stands for Army Community Service? If you don’t know, you are not alone. During the pandemic, ACS realized many people do not know what it is that ACS does for Soldiers and their Families. ACS has discovered that their conventional way of marketing, has not been working as effectively, especially since the shutdown occurred. While the pandemic has been difficult, it has also given the opportunity to do things a little different and reach clients in a refreshed way. If you do know about ACS, you may have noticed more live videos with the staff on social media. The videos provide helpful tips, go on mini tours of some of the attractions in El Paso and offer virtual classes. With all this, people still have not really grasped everything ACS has to offer and the different programs provided. The new MWR ACS podcast, “Getting to Know ACS,” is set to change that. Getting to Know ACS, is a podcast about, well … getting to know us better. The podcast is hosted by Tracy Broomfield, DysTech project manager/analyst, and Jasmine Davis, a Family Advocacy Program administrative assistant. Each week, ACS will highlight a different program and talk about what it offers and how the Fort Bliss community can benefit from using their “free” services. Learn about how financial counselors can get you on the right track to help your money work for you. If you’re new to the area, maybe you just need to borrow a few things from the Lending Closet. Looking for a job? Listen to the Employment Readiness episode to get tips for your résumé. The podcast also gives ACS an opportunity to start a dialog with the Fort Bliss community. It’s gives the community and ACS a chance to talk “directly” about how the program can better serve you, as well as, knowing where it’s excelling and where it needs improvement. Getting to Know ACS is available on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube as well as other podcast platforms. If you want to know more about ACS, check it out. Editor’s Note: Fort Bliss MWR has been working around the clock to give you more information about the different programs, facilities, events offered on post. Follow on Facebook to view the different podcasts, maybe you’ll even see favorites like Chris and Kenny, who love to chat about almost anything. Maybe even catch Michele and Marlo, who love to give away free stuff! Stay updated with Fort Bliss MWR. @blissmwr
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NOW OPEN a READY TO SERVE YOU! Enjoy seating inside or on the patio! Doors open at 4:30pm Wednesday-Friday 11199 Sgt. E. Churchill St. Info: 915-744-8472 SCAN TO SEE OUR FULL MENU
Fort Bliss MWR is working hard to bring back safe events for our families. Partner with us while giving back to the Fort Bliss military community. Tap into new opportunities while enhancing the quality of life for our military community members. It is a “Win-Win” situation, and your successful business growth journey starts with Fort Bliss MWR.
ROI
Publicity & Recognition
Market Expansion
Brand Loyalty
What’s in it for YOU?
Destination Fort Bliss MWR Increase sales volumes and generate Return on Investment. Introduce and promote your product to attract new customers.
Customer Relations Military Population Access
Create positive feelings, encourage repeat purchase. Create maximum exposure, directly interact with Fort Bliss military and civilian market. Enhance customer experience by developing and maintaining a valuable relationship with your client base. Expand your brand visibility and become recognized as a dedicated MWR supporter
We have many Advertising and Partnership opportunities available. For more information, please do not hesitate to call our Corporate Partnership Office at 915-568-6078/3415.
Milo’s Armed Forces Day Salute!
Help Milo celebrate by searching for the names of the vehicles used by some of our favorite heroes! Stay up to date, check out our website at www.bliss.armymwr.com.
APACHE THAAD MRAP CHINOOK M113 M1 ABRAMS HEMTT BLACKHAWK JLVT PATRIOT
B 3 A K H V C H W H M M R A P
L 3 B C A L H O S C 1 W 3 M A
A 1 T 1 W H I N K 1 1 J L V T
C A B 3 P A K H A M N M T T R
K L T T M N R W B I O H H M I
H B K R E O P K T H T A P P O
A P A C H E A S R C H E M T T
W 1 1 1 N N T M I N A H B J A
K O O N I H C A P O A D A M B
T K A B P P N B A T D 1 3 1 H
K W W K A H O 1 T A T T L T V
H M 1 A B R A M S P M M R A P
1 C 1 R A T W A B K T A A T H
3 T 3 1 T M K A R A H T R A H
1 P M T 3 E 3 1 A H D R T B R
HAPPY ARMED FORCES DAY
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Jeb Stuart Rd.
CHAFFEE GATE
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Shannon Van Valzah Rd.
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Sponsored by:
SCAN TO SEE UP TO DATE INFO
** Event is subject to change. **
Saturday, May 8 Freedom Crossing INFO: 915-568-2554
bliss NOW MWR Marketing Bldg. 12, Pershing Rd. Fort Bliss, TX 79916
PRESORTED STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID EL PASO, TX PERMIT #296
