A wonderful winter
cool days | cooler activities | warm up with family and mwr www.blissmwr.com
winter 2012
w w w. b l i s s m w r . c o m
¡blissNOW! • Winter 2012 • 1
NO PROBLEM! NO CREDIT? NEED CREDIT?
BEDROOMS
LIVING ROOMS
DINING ROOMS GAME SYSTEMS
COMPUTERS TELEVISIONS TM
CAR ALARMS
CAR STEREOS
GREAT SELECTION OF DIAMONDS (Jewelry shown for illustration only)
TIRES AND RIMS
WHY RENT WHEN YOU CAN OWN?
SUPERIOR CUSTOMER SERVICE • QUALITY MERCHANDISE • IMMEDIATE DELIVERY • ALLOTMENT EXPERTS • POWER OF ATTORNEY ACCEPTED EL PASO, TX 1430 NORTH LEE TREVINO DR., 915-591-3143 / 1-877-787-4177 YOUR INCREDIBLE CREDIT STORE®
one world. one voice. one magazine.
WINTER 2012
VOLUME EIGHT • ISSUE ONE
one great staff. COMMANDING GENERAL Maj. Gen. Dana J.H. Pittard GARRISON COMMANDER Col. Joseph A. Simonelli, Jr. DFMWR DIRECTOR Mark A. Cauthers ARMY COMMUNITY SERVICE Peggy Brown BUSINESS OPERATIONS Ronald Telles CHILD, YOUTH & SCHOOL SERVICES Pat Smith NAF SUPPORT MANAGER Indri O’Hara RECREATION & SPORTS Lindy Sorrell MARKETING & SPECIAL EVENTS William Ketcherside ADVERTISING & SPONSORSHIP Monica Castillo Michele Wiernicki WRITER/PHOTOGRAPHER Heather Wilburn MARKETING ASSISTANTS Marlo Brestar Darline Goyea OFFICE MANAGER Martina Grise GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Kenny Broomfield Raymond Sanchez 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 and George V. Underwood Golf Complex members, inserted in welcome packets, and distributed to all Family and MWR facilities, along with the Fort Bliss Commissary, Post Exchange at Freedom Crossing, Army Lodging Fort Bliss and the Personnel Processing Center. Circulation: 30,000 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. For more information, please call the individual facilities. Family and MWR Marketing is located in Building 11, Pershing Road, Fort Bliss, TX 79916 and may be reached by calling (915) 568-6741.
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4 calendar january 6 calendar february 8 calendar march 11 recognition Family and MWR 12 feature VALENTINE’S “LOVE LINES” 15 contest FAMILY & MWR VIDEO CONTEST 17 diversity BLACK HISTORY MONTH 18 clubs FOOD & FUN 20 sponsorship COMMUNITY PARTNERS 22 recreation leisure 24 recreation SOUTHWEST ADVENTURE 27 recreation sports & fitness 31 veterinary FURRY FRIENDS
32 family cyss 36 community acs 42 fort bliss map 44 east fort bliss map 46 directory phone numbers
DFMWR Director’s Comments The days are shorter, the nights are longer and, if the weather is any indication, winter is in full swing here at Fort Bliss. But never fear: The weather may be cooling down, but the fun is heating up. Our Family and MWR staff of friendly professionals has a great schedule of events lined up to help keep you out and about, and far removed from the winter blues. Start the year with a challenge, and register for the 2012 Fort Bliss Half Marathon. If your fitness goals are a little less lofty, kick off the year on a healthy note with Fitness Resolution 2012. Brought to you by Family and MWR’s sports and fitness staff, this event is designed to introduce exercisers to new ways to get fit by offering 10- to 15-minute versions of some of our most popular group exercise classes. Fitness Resolution is a great way to find elements to add to your fitness routine – and you might even be inspired to start a new one. Fort Bliss’ Got Talent is coming in February, and is shaping up to be our most exciting edition yet. If you haven’t ever seen the award-winning talent show, now is the time. Every Thursday in February, catch Fort Bliss’ most talented performers on stage. You won’t find better entertainment anywhere in El Paso. And it’s not too late to audition; check out the January calendar of events for more information. We’ve got another hot ticket in February – Mega Bingo is back at the Centennial, and it’s bigger than ever. One lucky winner is guaranteed to go home with a 2011 Ford F-150 XLT super cab, and it could be you. Fort Bliss Family and MWR is proud to bring you this first-in-the-Army program; look for Mega Bingo at other installations soon. The (relatively) mild temperatures here in the desert Southwest make the cooler months a great time to get out and get active in the great outdoors. Did you know, for instance, that winter is considered the peak climbing season at nearby Hueco Tanks, a world-class climbing destination? Of course, it’s also a great time for more traditional winter sports, including skiing and snowshoeing. Check out our Southwest Adventure team’s winter calendar for more fun activities. See you out there! Mark Cauthers
¡blissNOW! • Winter 2012 • 3
calendar JANUARY
Fort Bliss’ Got Talent auditions Do you have talent? Now’s your chance to show Fort Bliss what you can do – auditions for the award-winning Fort Bliss’ Got Talent will be held at the Centennial January 4, January 11 and January 18 at 6 p.m. each night. All talents are welcome. If you can sing, dance, play an instrument, juggle, tumble ... whatever! ... Fort Bliss’ Got Talent is the competition for you. The show is open to active-duty, Guard and Reserve members of any branch of service, retirees, Family members 16 years of age and older with military ID, and DoD civilians. Don’t forget: You’re competing for cash! First place takes home $500, second place wins $250 and third place earns $100. For complete rules and eligibility information, visit www.blissmwr.com. To learn more, call (915) 203-2518.
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Healthy Lunch Specials at the Centennial January 3-31 • 11am-1pm Monday-Friday Fort Bliss’ Got Talent Auditions January 4 • 6pm • Centennial Lunch Rocks! Half Day Climbing Adventure January 5 • 12-5pm • Sneed’s Cory, Franklin Mountains Skiing + Snowboarding with Southwest Adventure January 7 • Ski Apache, Mescalero, N.M. Fort Bliss’ Got Talent Auditions January 11 • 6pm • Centennial Fort Bliss’ Got Talent Auditions January 18 • 6pm • Centennial Tower Day - All-Day Use of Tango Tower for $6 January 21 • 10am-5pm • Tango Tower, Biggs Park Lunch Rocks! Half Day Climbing Adventure January 26 • 12-5pm • Sneed’s Cory, Franklin Mountains MWR Open Golf Tournament January 27 • 9am • Underwood Golf Complex FREE Snowshoeing Clinic with Southwest Adventure January 27 • 4-5pm • Biggs Park Skiing + Snowboarding with Southwest Adventure January 28 • Ski Apache, Mescalero, N.M. Snowshoeing with Southwest Adventure
3-31 January 28 • Lincoln National Forest, N.M.
Healthy lunch options Start the New Year on a healthy note and visit the Centennial to enjoy healthy lunch options throughout the month of January. Each weekday from January 3-January 31, the Centennial will offer menu items designed to tame your hunger while helping you meet your healthy dining goals. Enjoy vegetarian burritos, fresh wraps, salads and more. Pick up our punch card and receive one free item from our healthy lunch options menu for ev-
januaryevents
ery five you purchase. Plus, we’ll enter your completed punch card into a drawing for a three-session package with one of the personal trainers on Family and MWR’s Human Performance staff! To learn more about personal training at Family and MWR fitness facilities, visit www.blissmwr. com/fitness. For more information on healthy lunch specials, call the Centennial at (915) 744-8427.
4 • Winter 2012 • ¡blissNOW!
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calendar FEBRUARY
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Watch the brightest stars on Fort Bliss shine during Fort Bliss’ Got Talent, winner of the Army Festival of the Arts’ best variety entertainment production. Fort Bliss’ Got Talent is a four-week-long competition showcasing some of the installation’s best performers, every Thursday in February. At 6 p.m. February 2, February 9, February 16 and February 23, the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center, Bldg. 11199 on East Fort Bliss, will host fierce competition as our performers battle for the $500 grand prize. The contest is open to all activeduty, Reserve and Guard service members from any branch of service; retirees; de-
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pendents age 16 and older with valid military ID; and DoD civilians. Auditions will be held at 6 p.m. January 4, Jaunary 11 and January 18 at the Centennial. The audience is just as important as the talent in this competition; while each week’s performances will be evaluated by guest judges, the audience plays an integral role because their votes have the power to influence the outcome. Military units also have the chance to win: The unit with the most participation over all four weeks will win a $250 unit spirit award. For more information, call (915) 588-8247 or visit www.blissmwr.com.
Fort Bliss’ Got Talent February 2 • 6pm • Centennial 5K Post Championship February 3 • 7am • Soto Gym Martini and a Manicure February 3 • 4:30pm • Centennial Hiking and Snowshoeing with Southwest Adventure February 4 • Gila National Forest, N.M. Bouldering with Southwest Adventure February 4 • Hueco Tanks State Historic Site Super Bowl Party February 5 • 2:30pm • Desert Strike Lanes Lunch Rocks! Half Day Climbing Adventure February 9 • 12-5pm • Hueco Tanks State Historic Site Fort Bliss’ Got Talent February 9 • 6pm • Centennial Wine + Dinner Pairing February 10 • 7pm • Centennial Skiing + Snowboarding with Southwest Adventure February 11 • Ski Apache, Mescalero, N.M. Valentine’s Day Brunch February 12 • 10am-1pm • Centennial Fort Bliss’ Got Talent February 16 • 6pm • Centennial Colorado Ski Trip with Southwest Adventure February 17-20 • Wolf Creek + Purgatory, Colo. Black History Month Program February 17 • 7pm • Centennial Lunch Rocks! Half Day Climbing Adventure February 23 • 12-5pm • Hueco Tanks State Historic Site Fort Bliss’ Got Talent February 23 • 6pm • Centennial Mega Bingo - Win a 2011 Ford F-150! February 25 • 2pm • Centennial Mardi Gras Party February 28 • 6pm • Desert Strike Lanes
Wine + Dinner Pairing
10 Treat your palate to a world of flavor at the Centennial’s Wine and Dinner Pairing Friday, Feburary 10. Dine on a carefully planned four-course dinner and enjoy each course with a wine specially chosen to complement and enhance the dish. Our intimate atmosphere makes it possible to treat your someone special to a romantic evening, or celebrate a girls’ or guys’ night out and
enjoy the company of other wine enthusiasts. Tickets cost $40 each or $75 for two. You can purchase tickets at the Centennial between 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday, or by phone at (915) 744-8427. For more information, visit www. blissmwr.com or call the Centennial at (915) 744-8427.
Super Bowl party You don’t have to head to Indianapolis to enjoy Super Bowl 46 ... you can watch it live from the comfort of Strike Lounge in Desert Strike Lanes! Join the fun Sunday, February 5 when doors open at 2:30 p.m. There will be free snack items and giveaways each
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quarter. Enjoy free entry into the football pool with purchase of food or beverages and great drink specials, as well. Kickoff is at 4:30 p.m., so don’t be late! To learn more, visit www.blissmwr. com/bowling or call Desert Strike Lanes (915) 568-6272.
1/7ÊvÊHouston 1/14ÊvÊSMU 1/18ÊvÊE.ÊCarolina 2/4ÊvÊUAB 2/8ÊvÊTulsa 2/11ÊvÊTulane 2/22ÊvÊSouthernÊMiss 2/29ÊvÊRice
www.blissmwr.com
calendar FEBRUARY
februaryevents
1/8ÊÊÊvÊMemphis 1/12ÊvÊTulsa 1/22ÊvÊHouston 1/29ÊvÊUCF 2/9ÊÊÊvÊMarshall 2/12ÊvÊTulane 2/23ÊvÊSMU 2/26ÊvÊRice
¡blissNOW! • Winter 2012 • 7
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Tower Day
marchevents Lunch Rocks! Half Day Climbing Adventure March 1 • 12-5pm • Sneed’s Cory, Franklin Mountains Sport Climbing with Southwest Adventure March 3 • Rough and Ready Hills Range, N.M. Hiking with Southwest Adventure
Reach new heights during Tower Day at Biggs Park! Enjoy unlimited use of Tango Tower for just $6 per person from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursday, March 29. The Tango Tower is a 50foot tall, six-sided structure with over 20 different high elements, giving participants a multitude of choices. On Tower Day, there are no age restrictions and no reservations are required. All needed equipment is provided. For more information, call (915) 744-2415 or (915) 433-9666.
March 4 • Gila National Forest, N.M. Lunch Rocks! Half Day Climbing Adventure March 8 • 12-5pm • Hueco Tanks State Historic Site Hiking with Southwest Adventure March 8 • Guadalupe Peak National Park FREE Backpacking Clinic March 14 • 4-5pm • Biggs Park Camping + Climbing with Southwest Adventure March 17-18 • Percha Creek, N.M. St. Patty’s Day 6-Mile Run March 17 • 7am • Soto Gym St. Patrick’s Day Party March 17 • 6pm • Desert Strike Lanes Lunch Rocks! Half Day Climbing Adventure March 22 • 12-5pm • Sneed’s Cory, Franklin Mountains MWR Open Golf Tournament
MWR Open tournament Get into the swing of things with the MWR Open golf tournament Friday, March 23. Play begins at 9 a.m. with a shotgun start on the Sunset Course. The MWR Open is open to all. Bring your friends to compete in this fourperson scramble tournament, or register on your own and get teamed with other players. Entry costs $40 per player and includes green fees, cart rental, range balls and lunch. Prizes will be awarded for first, second and third places, and closest to the pin. For more information, call (915) 562-1273.
March 23 • 9am • Underwood Golf Complex Marfa Lights Camping Adventure with Southwest Adventure March 24-25 • Marfa, Texas Tower Day - All-Day Use of Tango Tower for $6 March 29 • 10am-5pm • Tango Tower, Biggs Park Bouldering with Southwest Adventure
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March 31 • Hueco Tanks State Historic Site
St. Patty’s Day party Celebrate the luck of the Irish and head to Desert Strike Lanes Saturday, March 17 for a St. Patty’s Day Party. The fun starts at 6 p.m. and includes free snacks and great drink specials. For more information, call (915) 568-6272.
Andrew P Rosen MD FACOG
Dual Board Certified In Obstetrics & Gynecology & Family Practice
Obstetrics • Gynecology • Infertility Evaluation • Laparoscopy Menopausal Care • Urinary Incontinence Therapy • 4D Ultrasound Complete Personalized Women’s Healthcare • Nurse Lactation Educator In Office Accepting New Patients • Tricare & New Mexico Medicaid Accepted El Doctor Habla Español • Mon-Fri 8:30am-5:00pm
915 261 0326
After Hours
915 838 7946
1600 Medical Center Street • Suite 307 • Medical Center Plaza Building • www.andrewprosenmd.com AdId: R 3364558 - 01
1511086947 8CustId: • Winter 2012 • ¡blissNOW! Dir/Iss: ELPTX YP1 06/2011
YPH: 103944
www.blissmwr.com Physicians & Surgeons Doctors YPSH:
ticipated third album Break The Spell, five years to the day that the band released its self-titled five-timesplatinum debut. In less than four years, Daughtry has scored four No.1 hits, won four American Music Awards, garnered four Grammy nominations, sold more than 7 million albums and played
sold out concerts around the world. Over the years, Daughtry has participated with USO, dedicating time with our troops. They recently played the American Freedom Festival in Washington, D.C., an annual concert honoring the veterans and men and
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Be ready to rock ... multi-platinum rock band Daughtry is coming to Fort Bliss Friday, March 16, and you’re invited! The free show, presented by the Air Force Reserve Tour for the Troops, will take place at Biggs Park and is open to all military ID holders. Show time and admisison information are still being determined. Daughtry recently released its highly an-
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women of America’s armed forces. No food or beverages, coolers, glass containers or pets are allowed at Biggs Park. There is no ATM on the premises. For details as they become available, keep an eye on www. blissmwr.com.
¡blissNOW! • Winter 2012 • 9
10 • Fall 2011 • ¡blissNOW!
CIRCLE AWARD
Darline Goyea, Family and MWR Marketing
If you asked the 10 staff members who comprise the Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation marketing and special events team to rate Martina Grise, as a teacher would issue grades for her students, “Tina” would most likely get straight A’s! Tina started with Family and MWR at Fort Hood, Texas, in October 1995. For a couple of months, Tina worked in the kitchen at the Sports Dome. Later that year, she and her son moved to El Paso. Tina took some much-needed time off during the holidays and jumped back on the wagon in February 1996, continuing her career with MWR at Fort Bliss’ Gen. George V. Underwood Jr. Golf Complex. In fall 2003, Tina moved on to the Fort Bliss Officers’ Club. After the club closed its doors in September 2009, Tina couldn’t sit still for too long. (It’s true ... you should see her at the Family and MWR events!) Tina moved on to the role of office manager for MWR Marketing and Special Events – where she now calls home. She calls us her “special” bunch. A common quote you’ll hear from Tina is, “I don’t mind managing the office, just don’t make me manage the people!” But that’s exactly what she does, whether she likes it or not. There is a lot that comes and goes in the marketing office, and Tina is just right for the job. Tina keeps that “special” bunch in order. If there is a question asked, you bet Tina has the answer – or she’ll get it for you. The marketing department recently made a move to Bldg. 12 on Pershing Road, and Tina organized the logistics to a “T.” Between processing payroll, making sure we are in line with budget, working extra hours to support after-hour events and maintaining the daily business of a dynamic staff, she is the “goto” person. “We couldn’t function without Tina in our office,” said Michele Wiernicki, Family and MWR commercial sponsorship and advertising coordinator. “Tina is like the captain of the MWR Marketing and Special Events ship,” said Bill Ketcherside, chief of Marketing and Special Events. “She keeps everything steered in the right direction.” Tina is a hard-working woman with very high moral standards in the workplace, and I am sure, the staff at Bldg. 12 wouldn’t have it any other way.
www.blissmwr.com
Winner’s Circle Employees go above and beyond
Each quarter, Family and MWR holds the Winner’s Circle award ceremony to recognize employees who have gone above and beyond to provide excellent service for the Soldiers, families, retirees and civilians we serve. Winner’s Circle is a directorate-level incentive awards program primarily designed to recognize outstanding customer service and teamwork by Family and MWR staff members. Each quarter, staff members are nominated by their peers, patrons of Family and MWR or outside agencies, or are identified by name in an ICE comment. Once a year, an individual who reflects greatness is selected by our director, Mark A. Cauthers. This year, Cauthers elected to name two recipients of the Director’s Award. Eric Hildreth from the Community Recreation Division and Nancy thomasmainor from the Soldier and Family Assistance Center both
FAMILY and MWR
MWR
regularly go above and beyond in their service to our Soldiers and families.
recognition
MWR
At the end of the year, informal leaders who contribute to the organization are awarded the “Role Model” award. These staff members coach and motivate employees, help develop a people-oriented work environment and demonstrate selfless service, care and concern for others. FREDERICK OZYP NAF Support Services JESSICA ZAGELOW Child, Youth and School Services WANDA KIENZLE Business Operations Division ANA HERNANDEZ Army Community Service JOSEPH FEDAK Community Recreation Division The following staff members are “Commitment to Excellence” winners for routinely going above and beyond to provide exceptional service to internal and external customers. A maximum of 20 are selected each quarter. 4th quarter 2011 Aaron Jones James HamiltoN joseph fanion eduardo duran john limon kimberly cook-mcdaniel lila barkley pamela thomas martina grise hector gutierrez tiffany mogen
peter frantz charlene gilliam kayla alvarado guadaulpe morales elisabeth jusino susan goss The “Effective Team” award is given to recognize the accomplishments of a team who work together in harmony to produce outstanding results. The selection committee decided that the team below is well deserving of the award. 4th quarter 2011 Omar bradley sports complex Sean Grady, Luis Karl and Jose Holguin
To nominate a Family and MWR employee for a Winner’s Circle award, contact Melinda Scott at (915) 568-3500. To submit a compliment or suggestion for improvement for any Family and MWR program, check out the ICE system at http://ice.disa.mil/ index.cfm?fa=site&site_id=435.
¡blissNOW! • Winter 2012 • 11
alentine’s D ay V Michael Wayne, we’ve had a such a Happy Valentine’s Day and 10-year To my two greatest loves. I never thought journey in the four years of being married. Love you babe, and you’re the best Thank you for being a provider, friend, thing that ever happened to me. anniversary. I love you for all that you that love at first sight could strike twice. are and do for our family and our great But it did and I am thankful every day for father, helper, and lover. I love you both Thank you for being a wonderful with all my heart. husband. you both. Love, Sabrina Bickett nation. Love, Jenni
To my love, my hero, my friend, Mr. Travon Crouchet: I will love you for a lifetime and then some. Happy Valentines Day! Mrs. Shannon Crouchet
Happy Valentine’s Day to my husband Aayan Das. I LOVE YOU! *m
To my baby: Babe, I love you with all my heart and soul and will stick by you ‘til the very end. All my love, Joy
My love, my friend, I promised to love you every moment of forever. Would you be my cupid for the rest of our lives? ILU.
Spc. Jose Nieves Mendez, your love is why You are a wonderful Daddy and hubby !! We I wake up every day, and gives me encourQuinn, I thank God for you and continuBrad, I love you so very much and love you and miss you very much!! Happy agement, hope and strength to face all the ously dedicate myself to you and our boys. Valentine’s Day, Manny! xoxoxoxo obstacles that arise in my life. Your children I love you always and forever. Truly yours, I’m extremely proud of you! Happy and I are proud of you. We love you. Bekah Valentine’s Day! All my love, Kim Love, Net, Jazzy, Justice, Jonah and Jordyn
Just remember I love you. Even when I don’t like you. Especially when I don’t like you.
Sean, I love you more than anything in this world. Thank you for the past four years and many to come. Happy Valentine’s Day. ~Amanda
12 • Winter 2012 • ¡blissNOW!
To my beloved husband, my Chocolate. LaRon, I love you more than words can express. You are my guy! Your Hottness, Dominica
Ant, even though we can’t spend Valentine’s Day together I still want to tell you that I love you with all my heart and miss you a great deal. Hugs and kisses, Aracelis
Love Lines I would like to wish my husJustin: Happy Valentine’s Day, band, Joesph Allen Martin Henson, a very happy Valentine’s Polar Bear! Come home safe! Your Day. I love you honey, bunches Valentine is waiting for you. I love you so much! Your wife, Amber and bunches!
We asked, and you entered! On these next three pages, you’ll find the declarations of love we received from our readers as part of the Valentine’s Day Love Lines promotion. Could cupid have done a better job? We don’t think so.
To my husband Chris Hall, I love you so much and I am still in love with you. Thank you for being my man and having three of the most wonderful children in the world. You are my hunnybear.
Happy Valentine’s Day, Sgt. Farrar! We miss you. Hope you come home safe and always remember we love you. Amber, Paris and Junior
Para el amor de mi vida: Si Dios me lo permite siempre estare junto a ti. Feliz Dia de los Enamorados, mi amor.
Dear Justin, I want you to know Happy Valentines Day, honey Happy Valentine’s Day, Aminifu! WE may not be perfect, but that I love you more than anything. Happy Valentine’s Day to Sgt. bee! I love you and can’t We love and miss you! “ Close you’re perfect for me. YOU lift me You are my best friend. I don’t 1st Class Mike Neal. My love, my wait to spend the rest of together or far apart, you’re forever know what I would do with out best friend, my hero! Forever my life with you. Someday, up. YOU let me fly. For ME you’re in my heart.” Love you! Julie MY ONLY GUY! you. Love, Your Peach and for always! Jennifer everyday. 7/14/2012. Johnson
Spc. “Boodaddy” Adams, You’re our hero and mean the world to us! Can’t wait to have you home so we can get back to us!
Spc. Nathan Bytheway, Even though at times we’re miles apart, no amount of distance can separate our hearts. We will always be together forever in one another’s heart. Happy Valentine’s Day, my love!
Baby I love you sooo much. Thank you for everything that you do and all your love. Will you be my Valentine forever? Love always, your wife
Justin, I love you so much! You make me the happiest girl in the world and I can’t wait to be “yours forever”! Always, Jessica
There could have been no two hearts so open, no tastes so similar, no feelings so in unison. Ever thine. Ever mine. Ever ours. Happy Valentine’s Day to my immortal beloved.
¡blissNOW! • Winter 2012 • 13
alentine’s D ay Love Lines V To my wife Maricar Pinaula, I’m truly a lucky man. I always appreciate you and adore you. Happy Valentines Day! For life and longer, James
Russell, although we are not together on our first Valentines Day, know I am here thinking of you my darling from all 1626.0 miles away! Haydee
Rags, Your love gives me strength to leap over mountains, skip upon the hills, skate across the oceans, soar on eagles’ wings. I love you.
Happy Valentine’s Day to my wonderful husband John Tripp! I love you more than anything in this world, forever and ever baby!
Home for good and almost done. I’m so proud of you. Happy Valentine’s Day. Love always, Angela
Happy Valentines Day to my To my husband, David Watts: I’ve Tyler, Although we may be apart, we want extraordinary husband! Thank never been more sure anything you to know you’re always in our hearts. you for marrying me! I love you! and the simple fact is that I love You’re our hero, Daddy! Love, Christina, Yours truly, Mrs. Hodge Taylor and Payton you. “You had me at hello.”
Congratulations! Congratulations to Grendalys De Jesus, winner of our Valentine’s Day Love Lines giveaway. Grendalys won a two-night stay for Chase SuiteHotels two in a luxury studio suite at El Paso’s Chase Suite Hotel.
6791 Montana, El Paso Texas 79924 (915) 772 - 8000
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14 • Winter 2012 • ¡blissNOW!
Tell us what Family and MWR means to you and win
Heather Wilburn, Family and MWR Marketing
Are you handy with a video camera? Dying to try out that new digital recorder you picked up last year? Then do we have the contest for you: It’s the first-ever Fort Bliss Family and MWR video contest! We’re looking for your videos to tell us what Family and MWR means to you. The winner of the Family and MWR video contest will receive a 42-inch high-definition television, courtesy of Freedom Furniture. The contest is open to active-duty, Reserve and National Guard service members from any branch of service, stationed at Fort Bliss, and their family members age 18 and older, with valid military ID. Contestants must be in amateur status and cannot be professionally employed as a videographer (i.e., with the Public Affairs Office, etc.). Video submissions must be at least 29 seconds in duration, and no more than 59 seconds in duration, and should follow the theme “This is What Family and MWR Means to Me.” Videos may not depict Soldiers in their day-to-day activities during duty hours. Videos may not include any intentional logo placement, although a logo on a building in the background, for instance, is acceptable. All materials must be the original composition of the participant. Video submissions that include YouTube or any other like footage source will be disqualified. This includes photography, music and other media, as well.
video CONTEST
Lights, camera, action!
To enter, upload your completed video to your YouTube account, then copy the link to your video and send it to christopher. bohn3@us.army.mil. Include in the email your name, your unit or sponsor’s unit information, your email address and a daytime telephone number, along with the times it will be best to contact you. Submissions will be accepted until 11:59 p.m. Monday, February 20. For a complete copy of the official rules and information, visit www.blissmwr.com. Now get out there and get filming!
RENTRENT-A-CAR CASA NISSAN IS NOW AVAILABLE TO SERVE ALL YOUR RENTAL CAR NEEDS! COMPETITIVE PRICING AND MILITARY DISCOUNTS! DISCOUNTS! CONVENIENT LOCATION TO FORT BLISS, JUST OUTSIDE THE JEB STUART GATE. 915915-772772-1488 5855 MONTANA AVE. www.blissmwr.com
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16 • Fall 2011 • ¡blissNOW!
www.blissmwr.com
Black History Month program set to entertain, educate
As we celebrate this month it is “ wonderful to reflect on what makes our
Darline Goyea, Family and MWR Marketing
February is the month of love, culture and history, and – this year – the leap year! The month of February provides an open invitation to engage in and learn about the contributions of African-Americans in American history. This year, Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation is sending an invitation to the community of Fort Bliss and the surrounding city of El Paso to join us in observing Black History Month. Typically, the Equal Opportunity office oversees the celebration of diversity we share here on Fort Bliss. This year, however, the Family and MWR Marketing and Special Events teams have joined forces to bring you Fort Bliss’ first Black History Month event of this kind, A Celebration of Our Journey: From Africa to America. The purpose of the program will be to provide entertainment, educate and acknowledge past and present AfricanAmericans and their contributions to our society, and recognize the jubilee of a rich and diverse culture. “As we celebrate this month it is wonderful to reflect on what makes our country great: The ability to grow, learn and prosper in the celebration of our different cultures and diversity,” said Mark Cauthers, director of Family and MWR. Family and MWR approached individuals and groups to participate, and all were more than happy and honored to partake. Performances will vary from Congo drum players,
country great: the ability to grow, learn and prosper in the celebration of our different cultures and diversity.
”
diversity BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Celebrating diversity
singers and dancers to a dynamic one-woman show and a fashion show—which will encompass fashions made with authentic West African fabrics, set in today’s American trends. There will be a display of African-American artifacts showcased for viewing, and so much more. The Black History Month production is a free, family-friendly event. Mark your calendars: Friday, February 17 at 7 p.m. in the ballroom at the Centennial. Doors open at 5 p.m. to allow guests time to enjoy dinner; food and drinks will be available for purchase. Child care will be available at the regular hourly rate for children registered with Child, Youth and School Services, but we’d rather you have the young ones join us for an evening of edification for the mind and soul. If you choose to take advantage of the special child care opening, you must make advance reservations. For more information contact the Family and MWR Marketing office at (915) 568-6741 or (915) 568-6353.
The right place to stay is right on post. IHG Army Hotels at Fort Bliss Fort Bliss, TX
Comfortable, pet-friendly* rooms. Free breakfast. Free local phone calls. Free Wi-Fi in the main lobby. Free DVD availability. Wednesday-evening socials. A business center. Three fitness rooms. An outdoor pool and playground. Concierge and courtesy on-post shuttle service. Even the chance to earn points in IHG’s awardwinning Priority Club® Rewards program.** At IHG Army Hotels, it’s all right on post at Fort Bliss, convenient to everything. With a knowledgeable staff that understands exactly what military visitors need. So check it out for yourself. And see how IHG Army Hotels is redefining the whole concept of on-post lodging. For the better. RESERVATIONS: 1-877-711-TEAM (8326) or 915-565-7777 IHGArmyHotels.com IHG Army Hotels at Fort Bliss, 1744 Victory Avenue, Fort Bliss, TX 79906 * A non-refundable pet fee applies.
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www.blissmwr.com
¡blissNOW! • Winter 2012 • 17
clubs FOOD&FUN
Bring on the bingo!
The Centennial offers several ways to play program, Sheppard said. Whether you’re a bingo novice or a Bingo is now offered Wednesday, double-fisted dauber, the revamped bingo Thursday and Saturday nights, and program at the Centennial has someSunday afternoon. Jackpots have thing for you. From the regular-sesbeen raised from previous levels, sion bingo offered four times a week and other changes have been impleto special events like Mega Bingo mented as well. and High Stakes Bingo, there are “We have raised our payouts more ways than ever to win. at Binge Bingo,“ Sheppard said. In August, the Centennial “We moved our Saturday hosted the Army’s first-ever program to Thursdays with Mega Bingo, and lucky winner slightly higher payouts, to make Martenia Barclay went home way for a new Super Saturday with a 2011 Jeep Compass. Bingo program with higher payouts. program manager Leesa Sheppard Sunday Funday Bingo has been and her crew are at it again, and brought back through the fall Mega Bingo returns to the Centenand winter, for those really dienial Sunday, February 25. This hard weekend players.” time, you’re playing for a 2011 Binge Bingo features a proFord F-150 XLT super cab, valgressive jackpot and starts at ued at more than $32,000, gen6 p.m. each Wednesday, with erously sponsored by Casa Ford early-bird games beginning at Lincoln Nissan. 5:30 p.m. “The Mega Bingo in August Thursday, play Payday was a raging success,” ShepThursday Bingo for your pard said. “It being our first chance at a jackpot of up Mega Bingo, we tested the wato $2,000. Games begin at 6 ters to see what worked and p.m., and early-birds start at what didn’t. 5:30 p.m. “As a result of customer Super Saturday Bingo offeedback, the Mega Bingo on fers higher payouts every February 25 will have fewer week and a guaranteed jackgames and higher payouts,” pot once a month. Early-bird she continued. “And – of course games kick off at 5:30 p.m. – the big, beautiful Ford F-150 Martenia Barclay poses with the 2011 Jeep Compass she won at the Cen- and regular-session bingo betennial’s first Mega Bingo, held in August. At the upcoming February 25 currently parked in front of the Mega Bingo, the grand prize will be the 2011 Ford F-150 XLT pictured above. gins at 6 p.m. Centennial will be given away.” Sunday Funday Bingo feaIn addition to the truck, Mega Bingo of- saw a good turnout at the one in Novem- tures a coverall jackpot and begins at 1:30 fers a total of up to $20,000 in cash prizes. ber, but we’re always happy to welcome p.m. each Sunday. Stop by early and enjoy Tickets go on sale January 9 at the Centen- new customers. Nothing is more excit- the Centennial’s famous Champagne Sunnial and cost $100 in advance, or $125 at ing than having a newcomer win some day Brunch before you play. the door. Players must be 12 years of age money!” While there are several places to play or older, and there must be a minimum of Speaking of newcomers, Sheppard said bingo in El Paso, none of them stack up to 50 players participating, or the game will she hopes to see more in the future. the Centennial. be cancelled and refunds will be issued. “Our customer service sets us apart,” “Bingo is not just for the blue-haired Mega Bingo is the biggest bingo event ladies,” she said. “We invite all newcom- Sheppard said. “We are very customeron Fort Bliss, but it’s not the only one. The ers to come try out our bingo programs. oriented. Centennial also hosts High Stakes Bingo, We have old and young, men and women, “We have a lot of fun at bingo, and we and the stakes are truly high. At the High and we would love to have you join us.” celebrate birthdays and anniversaries,” she Stakes Bingo in November, each regularBingo programs held four times each continued. “There is a bond between us all, session game paid out at least $500, and week give newcomers and established and we truly appreciate all our bingo clia total of more than $9,000 in cash prizes guests plenty of chances to join Sheppard ents.” was put up for grabs. To learn more about bingo programs at and the rest of the bingo staff. The pro“We will be having another High gram was recently revamped to benefit Fort Bliss, visit www.blissmwr.com/bingo Stakes Bingo in May,” Sheppard said. “We bingo clients and the growth of the bingo or call (915) 744-8427.
Heather Wilburn,, Family and MWR Marketing
Heather Wilburn, Family and mwr marketing
18 • Winter 2012 • ¡blissNOW!
www.blissmwr.com
Finishing touches
Bobby Kaerwer, Underwood Golf Complex
Several years ago I had the good fortune to be part of a facility on instruction at what was then known as the Business Schools of the PGA of America. One of the other guest instructors was Labron Harris Sr., who was at that time the golf coach at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, Okla. Harris was very successful in that his team annually contended for the NCAA golf championship and eventually won it. The following are a few of his “thoughts for better play”: • A stroke lost on the green is lost forever. • Promise yourself that you will never again take a shot carelessly or halfheartedly. • If you regularly shoot more than 80, every time you think of an approach club, make yourself take one club stronger. • Where everything else is equal, confidence is the difference in winning and losing. • Good putting goes hand-in-hand with good concentration.
clubs FOOD&FUN
Better your game with concentration
photos by HEATHER WILBURN, Family and mwr marketing
With construction of the new, state-of-theart clubhouse at Underwood Golf Complex drawing to a close, workers have begun the finishing touches. Look for an opening in late February. Above: Landscaping has begun on the areas surrounding the clubhouse. The concrete curbs in the foreground mark the location of a fountain that will anchor a circular drive.
Left: Workers piece together a stone backsplash in the bar area. The bar is located in the clubhouse’s Golden Tee dining room, which can accomodate more than 300 diners.
Kaerwer is the head golf professional and manager of Gen. George V. Underwood Jr. Golf Complex. In 2010, he received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Sun Country Section of the PGA of America.
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¡blissNOW! • Winter 2012 • 19
sponsorship COMMUNITY PARTNERS
"Just one of the Secrets of Southeastern New support Mexico" Community
Alamogordo
Event sponsors help make the magic happen
Michele Wiernicki, Commercial Sponsorship and Advertising Coordinator
If you have watched the news or read a newspaper lately, you are familiar with words like budget cuts, debt crisis and economic upheaval. Here at Fort Bliss Family and MWR, we are learning to survive with less and stretch our dollars more in this new “fiscal reality.” You might wonder how, in this burgeoning era of thrift and financial responsibility, Family and MWR is able to continue to put on first-class events and enhance quality-of-life programs at little or no cost to Soldiers and their families. The answer to that question can be found right outside the Fort Bliss gates and it comes in the form of commercial sponsorship. We at Fort Bliss are very fortunate to live in such a supportive and patriotic community. Within El Paso, there are businesses that are more than willing to show their support for Fort Bliss by sponsoring events and programs. In exchange for their monetary or in-kind support, the businesses are offered an opportunity to have a presence on post and at our events and facilities. If your children were spooked at Monster Bash, if you tried your luck at Mega Bingo or even if you were blessed with a turkey voucher for Thanksgiving, you were touched by commercial sponsorship. October 14, Family and MWR formally thanked the amazing individuals and businesses that continually support our programs, our Soldiers and their families at the annual sponsor appreciation ceremony at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center. Top sponsors were recognized with trophies and certificates of appreciation by Family and MWR Director Mark Cauthers. “The sponsors are true partners in our delivery of quality programs and entertainment,” Cauthers said. So if you see one of these businesses the next time you attend a Family and MWR event or utilize one of our facilities, please take a moment to say thanks – because we wouldn’t be able to do it without them.
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20 • Winter 2012 • ¡blissNOW!
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Salvador Renteria 915-383-4515 VISIT: salvador@saratoga-homes.com www.newmexico.org www.nmcentennial.org www.blissmwr.com
Carlsbad New Mexico
recreation leisure
Get crafty
Library technicians lead crochet, cross-stitch classes Darline Goyea, Family and MWR Marketing
It’s quite simple, you see. You take this yarn and loop it here, but make certain the correct needle is being used ... no, no, no, that’s not the right size! Yes, it’s that complex, but so much fun at the same time. The explosion of cross stitching and crocheting came about in the early ‘70s and ‘80s, culminated for a while and recently commenced again – and it’s not your grandmother’s type of craft anymore! Starting at a young age – 4, to be exact – Christena Lunsford, a library technician at Mickelsen Community Library, learned her family tradition of cross stitching. After being approached by lead librarian JoAnn Knight about teaching a beginner’s class, Lunsford took it up for consideration, and the first stitch was stitched. The library’s first cross-stitching class was held in November. At a charge of $7.50, all supplies were provided – including fabric, thread, needle and pattern. For four weeks, the class learned
22 • Winter 2012 • ¡blissNOW!
the basic steps of cross stitching, such as how to read a pattern, how to start and form blank patterns, half stitches, back stitching and the French knot. Lunsford’s goal was to start off with easy projects and slowly progress her class to a more skilled level. Cross stitching is a very precise hobby. “A simple pattern, for a beginner, can take up to a month and a half,” explained Lunsford. Lunsford simplified the beginner’s class by starting off with patterns for the holiday season, such as ornaments. Pending funding, Lunsford hopes to add cross stitching to the library’s cur-
riculum on a regular basis. A hook and yarn is all you need for Debby Strader’s crocheting class, also offered at the library. Strader is also a library technician and has been crocheting since she was 12. “The first thing that attracts me [to crochet] is the color of the yarn. I have to feel and touch it,” explained Strader. Crochet is mostly a memorization form of knitting; the difference is knitting requires two needles without a hook, and crochet is done with a hook, which can be made of plastic, bamboo or metal. According to Strader, the one thing that is important when crocheting is to count your stitches as you go or your project will “morph” into something other than what was intended. Who knew you could learn so much about crocheting and cross stitching? Look for possible classes in the spring. For more information on cross stitching and crocheting classes, please contact Mickelsen Community Library at (915) 568-1902.
www.blissmwr.com
recreation leisure
Inspection protection
Auto Crafts make sure your POV is legal
Darline Goyea, Family and MWR Marketing
You say you’re new in town, and you just moved from Germany? Not only are you wondering when is your furniture getting here, but what you need to register your vehicle at your new duty station? Fort Bliss’ Auto Crafts is your answer. Auto Crafts provides both the Texas safety inspection and emissions testing, provides these services quickly and is located on Fort Bliss – no need to head off post. Who needs a safety inspection and emissions testing? The answer might surprise you. In the past, drivers had to provide proof of a passed safety inspection and emissions testing when registering vehicles on post. While Department of Defense decals are no longer required, new arrivals registering their vehicle in El Paso County will still require a Texas state inspection and emissions testing for vehicles two to 24 years old. For vehicles newer than two years and older than 24, only the safety inspection is required. And regardless of what state your vehicle is registered in, state law dictates that military personnel assigned to an installation in an emissions county, including El Paso, maintain up-to-date emissions testing. You should also maintain a current safety inspection. In case you’re wondering what other services are provided at Auto Crafts, preventative maintenance such as tune-ups, brake jobs, oil changes and transmission services are the most common. Tire repairs, coolant flushes and diagnostic drivability issues are also part of the many services offered. You can get these services at several shops in town. What sets Auto Crafts apart? “Great customer service, great service and great prices,” explained Rudy Moreno, Auto Crafts’ assistant manager of three years, with a total of nine years tenure with
photos by darline goyea, Family and mwr marketing
Above: Auto Crafts technician Jesus Ortiz works on a client’s brakes. Right: Auto Crafts technician Angel Jimenez mounts a tire on a rim. Auto Crafts. Compared to shops around the area that can start at $60-$65 an hour for labor, Auto Crafts charges $55 per hour. “Price and service make all the difference in the world.” For all you do-it-yourself types, there’s also the Hobby Shop, which is part of Auto Crafts. The Hobby Shop is set up for individuals to come in and repair their personal vehicles on their own, at their own pace – without the assistance of the Auto Crafts technicians. Prior to using the space, a 30-minute safety orientation is mandatory. The Hobby shop is open Wednesday through Friday from noon-9 p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Use of the shop includes tools at a charge of $4 an hour. For more information on Auto Crafts or the Hobby Shop, please visit www. blissmwr.com or call (915) 568-7280. 100% Customer Satisfaction! NO FIX, No PAY ... 30 Day Guarantee.. we service
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¡blissNOW! • Winter 2012 • 23
recreation southwest adventure
Cool weather, even cooler adventures
Hit the slopes, or reach new heights with climbing trips
Heather Wilburn, Family and MWR Marketing
The cool winter weather offers Fort Bliss and El Paso a welcome respite from the desert heat. With the new season comes a whole new crop of adventurous opportunities presented by Southwest Adventure, Family and MWR’s outdoor recreation program. One of the most popular winter recreation programs is – of course – skiing, and Southwest Adventure has several ski trips on the schedule. These day trips head for Ski Apache in Mescalero, N.M., just outside Ruidoso. “Our skiing trips were really well-received last year,” said Kenny Coppedge, outdoor recreation specialist with Southwest Adventure. “And they’re very affordable. If you pack your own sack lunch, you can go skiing or snowboarding for $60-$65, and that includes everything.” The trips cost $50 per person, which includes transportation and a lift ticket, and makes a pit stop at a veteran-owned ski shop in Ruidoso before hitting the mountain. There, adventurers can rent skis for $10 and snowboards for about $15, a rate substantially lower than others available in the area. In February, the team is leading a four-day ski trip to Colorado, a joint effort with Fort Carson. Coppedge said the trip will involve two full days of skiing. “A lot of people think, ‘I’m not a good skier – why should I go on a two-day trip?’ When you ski two days in a row, you might spend the first day falling down a lot, but the learning curve increases. The second day, it will be much more enjoyable because you’ll have time to apply all the skills you learned the day before.” While it’s common knowledge that winter is a great time for skiing, many people may not know that it’s also a great time for bouldering and climbing, especially in the desert Southwest. “It’s better to climb when it’s cold; that way, your hands don’t sweat as much,” Coppedge said. “That’s when the hardest climbing happens, especially at Hueco Tanks, is during the winter. You climb a full grade higher. It’s like you freeze to the rock.” Climbing enthusiasts from around the world are familiar with this – that’s why the Hueco Rock Rodeo is held at Hueco Tanks each February. Southwest Adventure will run day trips to this world-class climbing competition. “It’s huge,” Coppedge said. “Climbers from all over the world come here to El Paso, to Hueco Tanks, to climb in the Rock Rodeo.” Another fun option for climbing: Tower Days at Tango Tower in Biggs Park on East Fort Bliss. During Tower Days, climbers pay $6 for all-day use of Tango Tower, a 50-foot-tall, six-sided climbing structure. There are no age or skill-level restrictions, and no reservations are required. Not into skiing or climbing? Try snowshoeing! There are day hikes scheduled in January and February to the Lincoln National Forest and Gila National Forest, respectively, and if the weather cooperates, they may be snowshoeing trips. “We’ll see; it’s an experiment,” Coppedge said. “How many people in El Paso want to go snowshoeing, you know? It sounds kind of weird ... snowshoeing? But there is snow close enough to go snowshoeing and have a fun day.”
24 • Winter 2012 • ¡blissNOW!
photos by southwest adventure
Another of the adventures lined up might sound “weird” as well, but promises to be a fun family outing. Southwest Adventure is headed to Marfa, Texas, to search for the Marfa Lights. “Do you know about Marfa? It’s this weird, artsy place ... in the middle of nowhere. Really interesting place,” Coppedge explained. “We’re going to be there to see the Marfa Lights. They’re these unexplained – maybe extraterrestrial, I’m not saying – lights that happen in Marfa.” The campground offers areas in which guests can set up their tents, but other options exist, including teepees and renovated airstream trailers. Pricing varies depending on the accommodations campers choose. To learn more about any Southwest Adventure program, call (915) 744-2415, email kenneth.coppedge@us.army.mil or visit www. blissmwr.com/southwestadventure.
www.blissmwr.com
Activity:
Location:
$$
Includes:
January 5
Lunch Rocks! Climbing
Sneed’s Cory
$10
Transportation, equipment, park entry fees, guide services
January 7
Skiing + Snowboarding
Ski Apache, Mescalero, N.M.
$50
Transportation, lift ticket - Equipment rental not included
January 21 10am-5pm
Tower Day
Tango Tower, Biggs Park
$6
All-day climbing of Tango Tower, equipment
January 26
Lunch Rocks! Climbing
Sneed’s Cory
$10
Transportation, equipment, park entry fees, guide services
January 27
FREE Snow Shoeing Clinic
Biggs Park
FREE
Equipment, instruction, handouts
January 28
Skiing + Snowboarding
Ski Apache, Mescalero, N.M.
$50
Transportation, lift ticket - Equipment rental not included
January 28
Snow Shoeing
Lincoln National Forest, N.M.
$15
Transportation, equipment, park entry fees, guide services
February 4
All-Day Hard Bouldering
Hueco Tanks State Historic Site
$15
Transportation, equipment, park entry fees, guide services
February 4
All-Day Hike + Snow Shoeing Gila National Forest, N.M.
$15
Transportation, equipment, park entry fees, guide services
February 9
Lunch Rocks! Bouldering
Hueco Tanks State Historic Site
$15
Transportation, equipment, park entry fees, guide services
February 11
Skiing + Snowboarding
Ski Apache, Mescalero, N.M.
$50
Transportation, lift ticket - Equipment rental not included
February 17-20
Colorado Ski Trip
Wolf Creek + Purgatory
$250
Transportation, lift tickets, lodging - Maximum 12-16 participants
February 23
Lunch Rocks! Bouldering
Hueco Tanks State Historic Site
$10
Transportation, equipment, park entry fees, guide services
February 25-26
Hueco Rock Rodeo
Hueco Tanks State Historic Site
$45
Transportation, equipment, park entry fees, guide services
March 1
Lunch Rocks! Climbing
Sneed’s Cory
$10
Transportation, equipment, park entry fees, guide services
March 3
All-Day Climbing
Rough and Readies Hills Range $15
Transportation, equipment, park entry fees, guide services
March 4
All-Day Hike
Gila National Forest, N.M.
$15
Transportation, equipment, park entry fees, guide services
March 8
Lunch Rocks! Bouldering
Hueco Tanks, N.M.
$10
Transportation, equipment, park entry fees, guide services
March 11
All-Day Hike
Guadalupe Peak National Park
$10
Transportation, equipment, park entry fees, guide services
March 14
FREE Backpacking Clinic
Biggs Park
FREE
Equipment, instruction, handouts
March 17-18
Camping + Climbing
Percha Creek
$25
Transportation, equipment, park entry fees, guide services Maximum 12-16 participants
March 22
Lunch Rocks! Climbing
Sneed’s Cory
$10
Transportation, equipment, park entry fees, guide services
March 24-25
Marfa Lights Camping Adventure
Marfa, Texas
$35
Transportation, equipment, guide services - Cost of lodging not included ($20-$150, based on preference)
March 29
Tower Day
Tango Tower, Biggs Park
$6
All-day climbing of Tango Tower, equipment
March 31
All-Day Bouldering
Hueco Tanks State Historic Site
$15
Transportation, equipment, park entry fees, guide services
recreation southwest adventure
Date:
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MWR Sports half marathon kicks off winter calendar Heather Wilburn, Family and MWR Marketing
intramurals calendar
Are you searching for a way to start the year off on the right foot? Hungry for a challenge? Look no further than the Fort Bliss Half Marathon Saturday, January 14 at Soto Gym. The run steps off at 8 a.m. Registration is open to all and is free for active-duty Soldiers, $20 for all military ID holders, and $35 for all others. The first 200 registered runners receive a free Under Armour shirt. Early registration ends January 11. Late registration will be held on-site from 6:30-7:45 a.m. the day of the event, and costs an additional $10 per runner. Sponsored by Under Armour and USAA, the half marathon is the first in a series of monthly runs the MWR Sports team has scheduled for 2012. The program’s staff worked hard in 2011 to build a base of return customers who recognize the quality of their events, said Aaron Jones, intramurals coordinator. “We’ve really got a lot of people signed on as far as knowing, ‘Hey, they run a quality event –let’s go back there,’” he said. With that hard work comes an increased turnout, and that principle applies not only to the runs, but to the league sports and tournament events, as well. “During the last half of 2011, we increased every single program exponentially,” Jones said. “Take, for instance, the flag football league. The year before, we had somewhere in the neighborhood of 40-45 teams. In 2011, we had 74. “Any time that you have a quality product, people buy into it,” he continued. “ And I think what helps sometimes is the open leagues. They get their feet wet, they see what we’re running and they enjoy it, and when it comes time for unit-level leagues they get their fellow Soldiers involved.” In addition to offering a quality product, command support is an integral part of making the programs a success. Successful programs, in turn, boost troop morale. “It helps your Soldiers have that hour away from work,” Jones said. “It builds camaraderie and teamwork.” The unit-level leagues are open to active-duty Soldiers only, and are the only ones in the running for the Commander’s Cup. The open leagues and women’s leagues – both open to active-duty Soldiers, fam-
EVENT NAME AND ELIGIBILITY
photos by mwr sports
The MWR Sports program at Fort Bliss has grown dramatically in the past years, more than doubling in size. In 2012, there will be 43 leagues and events offered, including familiar programs like the Intramural Basketball League (above) and 5K Turkey Trot (right), and new additions.
recreation sports&fitness
Marathon man (or woman)
ily members 18 and older with military ID, and DoD civilians – are steadily growing in popularity. As a result, more league have been added to the schedule. “We’re hoping the rest of the women’s leagues will take off like the women’s softball league did. It was very popular,” Jones said. “We’re hoping to draw in some of the same crowd. Most of the women really enjoyed that.” For information on any MWR Sports program, including MOIs and more, visit www.blissmwr.com/intramurals or call (915) 744-5790.
DATE
LOCATION
COMMANDER’S CUP EVENT?
Open to active-duty fort bliss military Intramural Basketball League
Begins January 9
Various Gyms
YeS
Intramural Bowling Championship
January 23
Desert Strike Lanes
Yes
Border Rumble Boxing Smoker
February 10
Soto Gym
No
Intramural Volleyball League
Begins March 19
Stout Gym
Yes
Intramural Outdoor Soccer League
Begins March 19
Stout Field
Yes
open to all military ID holders Women’s Basketball League
Begins January 9
Soto Gym
No
Intramural Racquetball Championship
January 24-26
Stout Gym
Yes
5K Post Championship
February 3
Soto Gym
Yes
Open Softball Saturday League
Begins March 3
Omar Bradley Complex
No
Women’s Volleyball League
Begins March 12
Biggs Gym
No
Open Flag Football League
Begins March 19
Stout Field
No
Fort Bliss Half Marathon
January 14
Soto Gym
No
St. Patty’s Day 6-Mile Run
March 17
Soto Gym
No
Open to fort bliss and el paso community
www.blissmwr.com
¡blissNOW! • Winter 2012 • 27
recreation sports&fitness
Testing your resolve
Fitness Resolution offers classes in “trial size” versions Darline Goyea, Family and MWR Marketing
Fitness Resolution, hosted annually by the fitness staff at Soto Gym, easily attracts 300 participants every year. What’s the draw? The chance to check out new ways to add to your fitness routine – or maybe begin a new one – by trying new classes in 10- to 15-minute increments. “The purpose of the event is to demonstrate a condensed version of the classes the gyms have to offer,” explained Teia Mack, Soto’s fitness coordinator. Fitness Resolution 2012 will run from 7 a.m. to noon Saturday, January 14 at Soto Gym. Instructors will demonstrate classes such as step aerobics, yoga, kickboxing, Zumba and Kettle Bell 101, in shortened versions. This year Fitness Resolution is also introducing RIPPED (Resistance, Interval, Power, Plyometrics, Endurance and Diet). RIPPED is a high-energy interval class that will burn a lot of
MWR SPorts photo
Fitness Resolution will give exercisers a chance to try classes like Kettle Bell 101, above, in “trialsized” increments of 10 to 15 minutes. The event will take place Saturday, January 14 at Soto Gym. calories, build endurance and tone. cal jump, and run a three-cone drill. For you die-hard football fans who The Fitness Resolution day is a good way would like to train like the pros, there will to rate what level you are at with exercise also be a Pro Combine demonstration add- and fitness. It’s an even better way to detered to this year’s agenda. Pro Combine is mine how to get where you would like to a series of combination workouts done in be. Challenge yourself and get motivated. quick spurts; for example, participants will Make it a family affair and bring the kids. test their ability to run a 40-yard sprint, lift For more information, call Soto Gym at 225 pounds in a bench press, jump the verti- (915) 744-5788.
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28 • Winter 2012 • ¡blissNOW!
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Veterinary clinic offers range of services Darline Goyea, Family and MWR Marketing
When you have a love for animals, there is no other calling but to become a veterinarian – and serving as a military veterinarian is no walk in the dog park. The schooling and training is similar to other medical professions; veterinarians are required to attend four years of college and four years of veterinary school. However, compared to a civilian veterinarian, military vets are subject to various other job duties. For example, military veterinarians are responsible for food inspection for the Department of Defense. That means all foods that comes on post has to come from an approved source, which means it is inspected by an Army veterinarian. Did you know the Army is the only military branch that provides veterinary care for all the other branches of military service? Who knew? Capt. Amanda Smith is the chief of the Fort Bliss Branch Veterinary Services. Smith has been a military veterinarian since June 2010. I know what you’re thinking: How is she a captain? Military veterinarians come in as captains because of the intense training and long years of schooling. While at Oklahoma State University pursuing her veterinary degree, Smith was approached by a Health Professions Scholarship Program recruiter (which typically recruits for physicians, dentists and veterinarians) about a possible scholarship. Smith had already been in school for two years and figured this would be a great way to offset the cost of the last two years, and serve her country as well. The veterinary treatment facility here at Fort Bliss has a staff of three veterinarians and four animal care technicians
WRAP YOUR ABS
photos by darline goyea, Family and mwr marketing
who care for more than 17,000 privately owned patients (Fort Bliss has the largest branch privately owned animal mission in the district). Nonetheless, the very small staff also provides comprehensive medical and surgical care for all of the military working dogs at Fort Bliss. The veterinarians and technicians also train the handlers on proper procedures for the care and maintenance of military working dogs. As a rule, the veterinary clinic on post offers the same full-service care as any
other veterinary clinic off post – with the exception of grooming or overnight boarding care. They generally see a high volume of four-legged patients that come through on a regular basis. Of course vet services are extended to families with an active-duty service member and retirees. If you live on post, it is required that your pet is registered at the VTF. The clinic operates on an appointment basis and offers limited emergency care during the day. Any specialty care is usually referred off post. The cost of care is commonly less expensive on post than off, so if you are wanting care for your family friend, trust the care of Capt. Smith and her staff on Carter Road. For more information on veterinary services on post, please check out www. blissmwr.com/veterinary.
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family CYSS
Home alone
CYSS program teaches youth safety, responsibility Darline Goyea, Family and MWR Marketing
Every parent has had that nagging feeling. Is it safe? Is he or she too young? Is my child responsible enough? Child, Youth and School Services has leaped to address your concerns. imAlone is a new program CYSS has undertaken in a four-hour class that teaches adolescents and parents responsibility, trustworthiness and safety while staying home alone. The class is interactive and features scenarios representing real-life situations that may arise. The class tackles the issues to help both the youths and parents communicate better about how to deal with any possible dilemmas or mishaps. The group begins with an icebreaker to help ease any apprehensions the youths and parents may feel. “No question is a dumb question,” said Gwen Gale, the CYSS training and programming specialist who teaches the class once each quarter. “I got a true feeling of how he felt,” said Karin Newport, mother of Carter, 11, the oldest of three. “It gives me more trust in him and it makes me feel better.” The youth workbook delves into self-assessment questions that help determine if the youths are truly ready to stay home alone – questions that address how they feel, what shows they are ready and what they already know. The materials also provide opportunity for a broader discussion about character ... the Six Pillars of Character, to be exact: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship.
darline goyea, Family and mwr marketing
Carter Newport, 11, and his mother Karin look over information in one of the workbooks provided to participants in the imAlone program.
“This class will help me be more responsible,” Carter said. Class participants role-play and discuss situations ranging from friends coming over while parents are away to computer and internet safety, how to create a family escape plan, emergency information and home safety – even snacks are covered! As military families, we move a lot and it is not always easy to leave your child in the care of strangers; imAlone can start the communication between parents and young adults about what it takes to create and maintain a safe home environment. The next series of imAlone is in February; reserve a spot now for you and your child. Contact Gale at gwendolyn.s.gale.naf@ mail.mil for more information.
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32 • Winter 2012 • ¡blissNOW!
www.blissmwr.com
family CYSS
The art of discipline
Ballet class teaches dancers focus, patience Darline Goyea, Family and MWR Marketing
darline goyea, Family and mwr marketing
Na Young Moon, age 9, works on proper form during a Ballet II class offered through the SKIES Unlimited program. Ballet, and several other dance programs, are offered to children ages 4 and up.
www.blissmwr.com
Did you know SKIES Unlimited, is in the business of teaching the French language? Well, at least through the art of dance they are. Ballet is a performance dance that originated during the Italian Renaissance in the 15th century. It was then developed further in France and Russia as a concert dance form. However, SKIES dance instructor Allison Duncan, a University of Houston-trained dancer, has brought her talents to Fort Bliss. The love of dance came to her at the age of 10; it began with ballet. “The discipline, creative aspect and hard work is what drew me to seek a degree in dance,” explained Duncan. Her strongest point is dancing hip-hop. In the past she has choreographed hip-hop moves and formed dance troupes. However, her degree in dance has privileged her to teach ballet, jazz, tap, hip-hop and modern dance.She teaches youths at Fort Bliss between the ages of 4-9. “Ballet is a good discipline. It teaches the girls patience,” explains Duncan. “Because it is so exact, it teaches them focus, too.” Duncan’s primary ballet class is comprised of 4- to 6-yearolds. It consists of basic lessons in beginners’ ballet. The young girls learn foot and arm positions, and posture. “With the younger students you have to change it up so they don’t get bored,” explained Duncan. The Ballet II class is more advanced—in age and in movements. The 7- to 9-year-olds are taught more avant-garde steps and positions. Typically, the girls get warmed up by doing stretches through a song and promptly move to the bars. A lot of floor routines are common as well. Besides the dance movements, the girls learn respect, team work, vocabulary (the majority of the words used in ballet are French), discipline, and how to be aware of their physical movements, like the way they walk, and concentrating on their core. The admiration and respect the young girls have for Duncan is a sight that should be seen. Duncan and the ballet troupe performed a holiday recital in December and will be performing a hip-hop dance routine for the Family and MWR Black History Month program this February at the Centennial. Looking to sign your child up? Contact SKIES at (915) 5687187 or (915) 568-5544 for more information.
¡blissNOW! • Winter 2012 • 33
community ACS
Helping Soldiers heal
Dedicated staff takes on a big job at the SFAC Heather Wilburn, Family and MWR Marketing
When you have a 15,000-square-foot facility, making it seem warm and welcoming can be a challenge – but challenges are nothing new to Nancy Thomas-Mainor and her staff at the Soldier and Family Assistance Center, and they rise to meet them every day. The SFAC provides services to the wounded warriors and warriors in transition assigned to the Warrior Transition Battalion. The facility, located on Marshall Road within the footprint of the WTB, opened its doors in June. Before that, the SFAC was housed in the back portion of the Army Community Service building. “The way it was planned from the very beginning, they were going to build facilities for the SFAC,” Thomas-Mainor said. “It just took a little longer to realize the plan than we initially anticipated.” But the SFAC’s new digs were worth the wait. A spacious lobby with comfortable seating and an indoor-outdoor fireplace, a nourishment area with healthy snacks and beverages, and a computer lab with CAC access and printers are just a few of the amenities WTB Soldiers and their family members are privy to when they are at the SFAC. “This is a really nice building. It’s nice,” Thomas-Mainor said. “The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and that was purposefully set for the clientele we deal with. It doesn’t look like a regular military building. It gives them an opportunity to get out of a military setting and come into a place where it’s more inviting, where it’s warm. It’s a place they can feel comfortable in, as they are receiving assistance in their healing process.” Don’t let the relaxed atmosphere fool you, though – there is a lot of work going on behind the scenes. The SFAC staff includes an information and referral coordinator, military human resources and benefits counselor, education service counselor and social services assistant. WTB staff housed in the facility include finance personnel, the chaplain and chaplain’s assistant and the WTB guidance counselor. And to make sure the SFAC is truly a onestop shop when it comes to services utilized by WTB Soldiers and their families, there are representatives from the Army Wounded Warrior Program (AW2), the Army Career and Alumni Program (ACAP), and the Texas Veterans’ Commission. The veterans Administration has a representative on hand twice a week, and Army Emergency Relief is in the house once a week. There’s even an ID card service for SFAC patrons, as well. Another feature of the SFAC is the testing lab. Thomas-Mainor saw the need for that service and made sure it was added to the roster.
“Those military personnel who have to do testing for one reason or another within their MOS, our education counselor is now trained and can administer those exams. We’ve added that as a feature so the Soldiers don’t have to go to an alternate site.” The SFAC has added education classes through Park University to lineup of services, as well. Instructors from Park come to the SFAC four days each week to offer basic core classes. Students from the first session “graduated” in December, and had a chance to take basic math and first-year creative writing. A new session begins January 16, and government and public speaking have been added to the course catalog for a total of four class options. “It gives the Soldiers and family members the opportunity to get a feel for what it would be like to be back in class, and they get credit for these courses, as well,” Thomas-Mainor said. All these services provided within the WTB footprint make it easy for WTB Soldiers to get what they require without the hassle of traveling back and forth across Fort Bliss. And, if for some reason the SFAC cannot provide a service, they find out who can. “We’ll do the leg work and find out who would provide that service and how we get the Soldier there,” Thomas-Mainor said. “We can do what we call a “call forward,” and have the representative of the agency come to us. If we can’t do that, we make a specific appointment and get the Soldier to that place.” This top-of-the-line facility is on par with the best care in the Army, Thomas-Mainor said. “I think the SFACs vary across the Army, and each SFAC is kind of tailored to the needs of the installation and the needs of the warriors there. I think in comparison to those who are pretty similar to For Bliss in size, we’re right up there,” she said. Of course, the facilities wouldn’t do anything without the dedicated staff, and the staff at the SFAC really cares, Thomas-Mainor said. “The staff is just awesome,” she said. “Their attitude is, What can we do? They always look for ways to do that. “The amazing thing about them is that all of them are retired military,” Thomas-Mainor continued. “They’re veterans. Some of them served in this war before retiring, so they really get it. They know what the Soldiers are going through. They’ve been there. They know what steps and processes the Soldiers have to take, and they can guide them through. And it all makes a tremendous difference. It really does.” Services through the SFAC are offered by assignment to the WTB only. For more information about the SFAC, stop by their facility at Bldg. 887 Marshall Road or call (915) 568-6789.
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36 • Winter 2012 • ¡blissNOW!
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¡blissNOW! • Winter 2012 • 37
u.S. army photo u.S. army photo
The leaders of
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At Embry-Riddle’s El Paso Campus, we get the fact that students today are different from previous generations. We also know that while you have big obligations, you still have big dreams. And a college education is the key to getting on a career path that will help you achieve those dreams; dreams of bigger paychecks, more rewarding careers, more opportunities for advancement and more respect. To make it easier for you to achieve those dreams, we deliver courses and degree programs on campus, online and through a network of more than 150 campus locations throughout the United States, Europe, the Middle East and Asia. Contact us today for more information regarding our programs.
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w o r l d w i d e .e r a u .e d u
In December 1789, James Madison introduced to the First United States Congress a series of articles now known as the United States Bill of Rights. The Bill of Rights was created to preserve the various rights early Americans wanted to be certain the government could not intrude upon, so it serves to protect the freedoms of individuals and state. Just as we have privileges as citizens to power and freedom, volunteers who support the numerous volunteer agencies on our installation have rights and responsibilities as well. The Army has established a Bill of Rights and Responsibilities based on the Army Values: loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity and personal courage. It provides the rights the volunteer should expect from the organization and the responsibilities the individual has to the organization. Volunteers have a great impact in our community. They are needed on our installation as they support numerous missions for the betterment of Soldiers and family members of Fort Bliss. It is our duty to follow the Army Volunteer Corps Bill of Rights and Responsibilities to ensure our volunteers continue to feel their service is invaluable to the organization in which they serve, Fort Bliss and the nation. Thanks, volunteers, for giving your time, talents and hearts to serve our community. Change the world ... Volunteer!
www.blissmwr.com
Army Volunteer Corps Bills of Rights and Responsibilities
community ACS
Tephanie Hopper, Army Volunteer Corps Coordinator
LOYALTY The right to be valued as an equal partner within the organization The right to feel that efforts have a purpose and contribute to the organization’s goal. The responsibility to learn and follow organizational policies and procedures DUTY The right to receive meaningful assignments that match personal goals, abilities, knowledge and experience The right to receive orientation training, a job description, guidance, feedback,and the resources necessary to carry out assignments The responsibility to maintain professional standards and to perform assigned tasks to the best of one’s abilities RESPECT The right to be treated with respect The right to be heard and help plan assignments and projects The responsibility to respect others and the diversity of opinion The responsibility to be open to change SELFLESS SERVICE The right to participate in a volunteer program that enhances and extends the goals of the organization The responsibility to pursue excellence The responsibility to work with compassion, caring, and commitment HONOR The right to work in a climate that values volunteerism and volunteer service The right to formal and informal expressions of appreciation and recognition The responsibility to embrace the values of the organization and the Army volunteer Corps INTEGRITY The right to be treated with fairness and equity The right to honest and open communication The responsibility to safeguard confidential information and protect privacy The responsibility to act fairly and impartially PERSONAL COURAGE The right to challenging and meaningful assignments The right to opportunities that promote personal and professional growth The responsibility to do what is right, now what is merely convenient The responsibility to accept personal and professional challenges by developing new skills, taking advantage of training opportunities, and accepting leadership roles
¡blissNOW! • Winter 2012 • 39
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1334 5035 131 887 2496 2930 262 1301 503B
(915) 562-4036 (915) 568-7506 (915) 568-1537 (915) 568-7431 (915) 568-7187 (915) 568-6923 (915) 569-3858 (915) 568-3264 (915) 569-5449 (915) 562-5451
PIKE RD
GATEWAY BLVD SOUTH
47 48 49 50 51
1733
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PIEDRAS ST
ELM ST
37 38 39 40 41 54 42 43 44 45 46
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5054 2968 1743 1611
(915) 564-0795 568-2538/2898 (915) 568-3035 (915) 568-1241 (915) 566-1133 (915) 568-7141 (915) 568-7506 (915) 564-5275 (915) 568-6156 (915) 568-7318 (915) 568-2115 2116/2117 (915) 568-4518 (915) 568-7393 (915) 568-4374 PX: (915) 562-7200
HAAN RD
ARTILLERY RD
A PH RD
Old Fort Bliss Replica Museum Omar Bradley Softball Complex Parent Central/CYSS Registration Freedom Crossing Post Exchange, Grand Theatre Third-party Shops Post Office POV Car Resale Lot Recycling Center Replica Aquatic Center SKIESUnlimited Gymnastic Center Soldier and Family Assistance Center ALTURA Soldier and Family AVE Medical Clinic Stout Physical Fitness Center Tennis RICHMOND Club & Fitness Zone AVE Thrift Shop, OCSA Transportation Inbound Transportation Outbound Transportation Unit Funds USO AURORA AVE Vehicle Registration Veterinary Services WHEELING AVE Youth Services
33 34 35 36
HUMPHREY RD
NI
(915) 562-4767 2011 500B (915) 568-3301 (915) 568-4849 45 PIERCE AVE (915) 562-8461 7060 (915) 568-1132 2494 (915) 565-7777 1744 (915) 568-7280 820 (915) 568-6272 2949 (915) 630-8669 197 (915) 568-1519 112 (915) 568-5689 1730 (915) 569-7199 5036 504B (915) 568-6287 (915) 568-4022 1717 (915) 568-5380 250 (915) 568-4108 6380 (915) 568-3500 11 (915) 568-5412 1735 (915) 569-5500 250 (915) 568-5563 820 (915) 568-2833 1 7777 (915) 569-2121 7777 (915) 569-2331 7777 7777 (915) 569-CARE (888) 874-9378 7777 (915) 569-2483 7777
DO
A Little Bit of Bliss Gift Shop Adjutant General American Red Cross Armed Services YMCA Army Community Service IHG Army Hotels at Fort Bliss Automotive Skills Center/Auto Crafts Bowling Center/Desert Strike Lanes Car Wash, Scuds & Suds Chaplain Child Development Center, Main Child Development Center, Replica Civilian Personnel Office Commissary Community Pool VAN BUREN AVE Defense Military Pay Office Family and MWR Headquarters Old Ironsides MuseumAVE MONROE Family Resilience Center Framing Bliss Garrison Command Hospital: WBAMC Information McKINLEY AVE Ambulance Appointments TRICARE Service Center Red Cross Housing On-Post/Balfour Beatty 1991 Off-Post In-Processing/Welcome Center FORT BLVD Inspector General Kelly Park Legal Assistance Leisure Travel Services (ITR) Mainstreet Expresso Mickelsen Community Library Milam Fitness Center Military Police Station
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24
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ALABAMA ST
FORT BLISS LEGEND
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21
WORK AVE
HAYES ST
RD
ALABAMA GATE
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LOUSIANA
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FRED WILSON RD
AVE
CHAFFEE GATE 6
Fort Bliss National Cemetery
17 37 11
PIKE RD
AIRPORT RD
13
FOUNDERS BLVD RD
36
HINMAN RD
PLEASONTON RD
HAAN RD CARRINGTON
MARSHALL RD
21
SHANNON VAN VALZAH RD
CHAFFEE RD
AVE
EARL H. BRUNS RD
JEB STUART RD
35 47 26
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SHERIDAN RD
ROBERT E. LEE GATE
HOOD RD
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ON EAS
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48 H
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BUTTERFIELD TRAIL BLVD
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EAST FORT BLISS EAST FORT BLISS LEGEND No.
Organization
Bldg.
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13471 (915) 566-5479 AAFES Mini Mall Army Community Service Annex/AER A478/479 (915) 744-1435 11251 (915) 744-8730 Biggs Gym 11388 (915) 744-8087 Biggs Park 11284 (915) 562-8442 Biggs Shoppette 11199 (915) 744-9330 Cenntennial Club (915) 562-5969 Catering Dining Room Habanero Java Cafe Primo’s Express (915) 744-9600 Takeout Orders (915) 744-8427 Metro Bingo Bar T20700 (915) 744-8697 6 Ironworks Gym 11896 (915) 744-7879 7 Milam Child Development Center 11898 (915) 744-2274 8 Milam School Age Center 10960 (915) 744-2278 9 Milam Youth Activity Center 20751 (915) 744-5788 10 Soto Physical Fitness Facility BOSS Headquarters Leisure Travel Services Outdoor Recreation Unit Funds 11 USO/FirstLight Federal Credit Union 20727 (915) 744-3480 USO (800) 351-1670 FirstLight Federal Credit Union 12 U.S. Army Sergeants Major Academy 11291 (915) 744-8009 (915) 562-5645 AAFES SMA Bookstore 1 13 2 3 4 5
8
FOUNDERS
WENDOVER
SERGEANT MAJOR BLVD
3
LUKE
7
CHANUTES
12
LUKE
SERGEANT MAJOR BLVD
SHORT
4
SGT E CHURCHILL
BIGGS
MSG R MILLER
SGT C THOMAS
5
SGT MARKLE
BARKSDALE
LUKE
MSG R MILLER
AIRPORT ROAD
BIGGS GATE
DUNCAN
RANDOLPH
SGT MARKLE
SSG SIMS
2
SCOTT
BOLLING
CSM E. SLEWITZE
PETERSON
WRIGHT
BIGGS ARMY AIRFIELD
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WALTER JONES
GLOBAL REACH GATE
EL PASO, TEXAS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT MILITARY AREAS
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El Paso International Airport
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family and mwrdirectory
ARMY COMMUNITY SERVICE ARMY COMMUNITY SERVICE
Bldg. 2494 Ricker Road
(915) 568-1132
ARMY COMMUNITY SERVICE ANNEX
Bldg. A478, between Sapper & Kasserine, East Fort Bliss
(915) 744-1435
FAMILY RESILIENCE CENTER
Bldg. 250 Club Road
(915) 569-5500
SOLDIER AND FAMILY ASSISTANCE CENTER
Bldg. 887 Marshall Road
(915) 568-6923
SOTO PFC
Bldg. 20751 Constitution Avenue, East Fort Bliss
(915) 744-5788
STOUT PFC
Bldg. 2930 Cassidy Road
(915) 568-3264
MILAM PFC
Bldg. 2499 Cassidy Road
(915) 568-7318
LOGAN HEIGHTS PFC
Bldg. 4797 Ellerthorpe Road, Logan Heights
(915) 568-5198
BIG ED’S GYM
Basement, Bldg. 2 Sheridan Road
(915) 568-4508
BIGGS PFC
Bldg. 11251 Biggs Street, East Bliss
(915) 744-8730
IRONWORKS GYM
Bldg. T20700 Sergeant Major Boulevard, East Fort Bliss
(915) 744-8697
TENNIS CLUB & FITNESS ZONE
Bldg. 262 Club Road
(915) 569-5449
COMMUNITY POOL
Bldg. 250 Club Road
(915) 568-4825
REPLICA AQUATIC CENTER
Bldg. 5035 Dickman Road
(915) 568-7431
Bldg. 11199 Sgt. E. Churchill Street, East Fort Bliss
(915) 744-8427
UNDERWOOD GOLF COMPLEX & GOLDEN TEE
Bldg. 3191 Coe Avenue, Logan Heights
(915) 562-1273
DESERT STRIKE LANES
Bldg. 2949 Ricker Road
(915) 568-6272
FORT BLISS ROD & GUN CLUB
Bldg. 3730 Roy Johnson Lane, Northeast El Paso
(915) 565-4867
BIGGS PARK
Bldg. 11388 Sergeant Major Boulevard, East Fort Bliss
(915) 744-8087
MICKELSEN LIBRARY
E-Wing, Basement, Bldg. 2, Pershing Circle
(915) 568-6156
RV PARK
Bldg. 4130 Ellerthorpe Road
(915) 568-0106
FRAMING BLISS
Bldg. 820 Marshall Road
(915) 568-5563
AUTOMOTIVE SKILLS CENTER
Bldg. 820 Marshall Road
(915) 568-7280
LEISURE TRAVEL SERVICES-MAIN
Bldg. 1743 Victory Avenue
(915) 568-7506
LEISURE TRAVEL SERVICES-PX KIOSK
Freedom Crossing, Main Exchange, Bldg. 1611, Marshall Road
(915) 569-6446
LEISURE TRAVEL SERVICES - SOTO GYM
2nd Floor, Bldg. 20751 Constitution Boulevard, East Fort Bliss
(915) 744-5105
OLD FORT BLISS MUSEUM
Bldg. 5054, Pershing Road & Pleasonton Road
(915) 568-4518
GYMS & FITNESS FACILITIES
FOOD, LEISURE & ENTERTAINMENT CENTENNIAL BANQUET AND CONFERENCE CENTER
CHILD, YOUTH & SCHOOL SERVICES FACILITIES CYSS PARENT CENTRAL
Bldg. 1743, Victory Avenue
(915) 568-4374
CYSS PARENT CENTRAL SATELLITE OFFICE
Bldg. 503B, Pershing Road
(915) 568-2146
CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER-MAIN
Bldg. 1730, Pleasonton Road
(915) 568-5689
CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER-LOGAN
Bldg. 3500, Ellerthorpe Road, Logan Heights
(915) 568-3989
CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER-MILAM
Bldg. 11896, Haan Road, East Fort Bliss
(915) 744-7879
CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER-REPLICA
Bldg. 5036 Sheridan Road
(915) 569-7199
SCHOOL-AGE CENTER-BLISS
Bldg. 11898, Sheridan Road
(915) 568-2178
SCHOOL-AGE CENTER-LOGAN
Bldg. 3505, Ellerthorpe Road, Logan Heights
(915) 569-5784
SCHOOL-AGE CENTER-MILAM
Bldg. 11898, Hann Road, East Fort Bliss
(915) 744-2274
YOUTHPLEX
Bldg. 195, Chaffee Road
(915) 568-5437
MILAM YOUTH ACTIVITY CENTER
Bldg. 10960, Haan Road, East Fort Bliss
(915) 744-2278
SKIESUnlimited - Main
Bldg. 3508, Ellerthorpe Road, Logan Heights
(915) 569-7732
SKIESUnlimited - Gymnastic CENTER
Bldg. 131, Doniphan Road
(915) 568-5544
FAMILY CHILD CARE (FCC)
Bldg. 1730, Victory Road
(915) 568-4198
SCHOOL LIAISON OFFICER
Bldg. 503B, Pershing Road
(915) 569-5064
MORE FAMILY AND MWR PHONE NUMBERS DFMWR HEADQUARTERS
2nd Floor, Bldg. 11, 2nd Floor, Pershing Road
(915) 568-3500
PRIVATE ORGANIZATIONS & SOLICITATION
Bldg. 11, 2nd Floor, Pershing Road
(915) 568-4444
UNIT FUNDS
Bldg. 1743, Victory Road
(915) 568-7506
UNIT FUNDS - SOTO GYM
2nd Floor, Bldg. 20751 Constitution Boulevard, East Fort Bliss
(915) 744-5105
VET SERVICES
Bldg. 6077, Carter Road
(915) 742-2266
2011 & 2012
PRESORTED STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID EL PASO, TX PERMIT #296
MWR Marketing Bldg 11, Pershing Rd. Fort Bliss, TX 79916
ti
n
e t t
At FirstLight you get paid first!
!! n o
WE NO
W OFF
ER
A Enjoy early payroll posting! Just one of the many benefits of being a military member at FirstLight! M-Tap Program
Branches and ATMs
Low Rates
An auto loan program for military with little or no credit.
Nine locations, three conveniently located on post, and over 180 local no-fee ATMs available to members.
Credit unions are not for profit, offering better rates than you would find at a bank.
M I L I T A R Y T U R N K E Y A U T O P R O G R A M
3500
Plus, you have access to use over 4,000 national credit unions through the Shared Branching network and over 37,000 national Co-Op ATMs. On post locations:
“It’s a great day to be a soldier’s credit union”
TM
• Marshall 1741 Marshall Rd., Fort Bliss, 79906 • William Beaumont 500 N. Piedras, Fort Bliss, 79920 • East Fort Bliss 20727 Constitution Ave., Fort Bliss, 79918
www.military.firstlightfcu.org