Bliss NOW Fall 2016 by Fort Bliss Family and MWR

blissNOW OCT • NOV • DEC

OUR ARMY FAMILY

Honoring Veterans | Thankful for Families | Rejoicing with Family and MWR WWW.BLISS.ARMYMWR.COM | FALL 2016

www.bliss.armymwr.com

OCT | NOV | DEC

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WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED IN MORE WAYS THAN ONE. USAA provides more benefits to military members than any other major financial services provider. MILITARY MEMBER BENEFIT #21: Up to 20% discount on renters coverage when you live on base.1

MILITARY MEMBER BENEFIT #10: Get worldwide coverage for your uniforms and personal military gear.²

MILITARY MEMBER BENEFIT #27: Insurance billing to match your military pay dates.3

CALL US AT 800-531-8521 OR VISIT US ONLINE TO SEE HOW WE CAN HELP YOU. 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. 1Renters on-base discount is NOT available in CA, FL, IA, LA, ME, MI, MN, MT, ND, NH, NY, OR, RI, SD, VT, WV, WY, and international locations. Other restrictions apply. 2For loss due to a covered peril of military uniforms or equipment owned by you, and when the loss occurs while you are on active or reserve duty, no deductible will be applied. 3Restrictions may apply to installment payment options. Renters insurance provided by United Services Automobile Association, USAA Casualty Insurance Company, USAA General Indemnity Company, Garrison Property and Casualty Insurance Company, and USAA Ltd. (Europe), San Antonio, TX, and is available only to persons eligible for P&C group membership. Each company has sole financial responsibility for its own products.Use of the term “member” or “membership” does not convey any eligibility rights for auto and property insurance products, or legal or ownership rights in USAA. Membership eligibility and product restrictions apply and are subject to change. © 2016 USAA. 233671-0816 page 2

OCT | NOV | DEC

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VOLUME TWELVE | ISSUE FOUR

OUR ARMY FAMILY

BY FAMILY AND MWR MARKETING

FROM THE DIRECTOR

COMMANDING GENERAL Maj. Gen. Robert P. White

T:11”

Happy Fall to all of our Fort Bliss Family. This is a time we are honoring our Families as November is Military Family Appreciation Month; expressing thanks to our veterans; and rejoicing with the Family and MWR in celebrating the holidays. So many new folks here at Fort Bliss excite us because we get to serve and highlight what we offer, but we also get to hear from you through new sets of eyes that can critique us and give us new ideas. In this time of budget constraints we prioritize those programs and services that are most utilized and attuned to readiness. Through all, we constantly strive to offer the best through our great staff and programs. The Army Community Service, Child, Youth and School Services, Recreation, Business Division, Special Events, and our Support Services Team stand ready to educate, nurture, provide fun activities, and venues for you to get done; what you need to get done. Our partnerships with the Exchange, Freedom Crossing, and the El Paso Community are second to none and we all have you at the forefront. Enjoy the season, have fun and celebrate the holidays. See you out there!

Mark

one world. one voice. one magazine.

one great staff. GARRISON COMMANDER Col. Mike Hester FAMILY & MWR DIRECTOR Mark A. Cauthers Deputy Director Tony Lovett ARMY COMMUNITY SERVICE Nancy Thomas-Mainor BUSINESS OPERATIONS Ronald Telles-Fyffe CHILD, YOUTH & SCHOOL SERVICES Pat Smith NAF SUPPORT MANAGER Indri O’Hara RECREATION & SPORTS Eric Hildreth SPECIAL EVENTS William Ketcherside MARKETING MANAGER Michele Wiernicki MARKETING ASSISTANTS Sarrah Morgan Rachelle Phillips WRITER / EDITOR Natalie Hinojos GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Kenny Broomfield Raymond Sanchez VISUAL PRODUCTION MARKETING Chris Bohn

Getyour your copy of blissNOW mailed directly Get copy of blissNOW mailed directly to you.to you. Email your name and address to: blissmwr@gmail.com Email your name and address to: blissmwr@gmail.com

Family and MWR is recognizing Military Family Appreciation Month for the Fall 2016 issue! We are proud of all of our Soldiers and their Families for all of the things they do for our country. We asked you, our Army Family, to enter a photo and small description of what it means to be a Military Family. Say hello to the Martinez Family, a day out in the desert area holding a sign, “Every Family is beautiful, but ours is my favorite,” and the Scheffer Family, Soldier with his wife and daughter dressed in patriotic colors. We are proud to display their photos on this Fall issue of Bliss NOW! But wait, there are more Families sharing their stories on pages 22-24.

Vendor: TBD Release Date: 12 Aug 16

RELEASED TO VENDOR

ABOUT THE COVER

www.bliss.armymwr.com

SPONSORSHIP & ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Marlo Brestar ADVERTISING ASSISTANT Michaela Elkobtan 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 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, 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. For more information, please call the individual facilities. Family and MWR Marketing is located in Building 12, Pershing Road, Fort Bliss, TX 79916 and may be reached by calling 915-568-6741.

OCT | NOV | DEC

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Family & Kid Friendly · Small Groups Welcome Thanksgiving Pies · Holiday Gifts Westside: 7500 N. Mesa St. #307 • 915.219.8365 Eastside: 1830 Joe Battle Blvd. #103 • 915.307.2766

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OCT | NOV | DEC

CONNECT WITH US EVENTS, CLASSES & CONTESTS.

BLISS.ARMYMWR.COM facebook.com/blissmwr

Contents

pages Full of absolute fun &

endless possibilities!

NEW SPACE OPENS UP FOR CREATIVITY

SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES

FEATURES 19

FAP takes on Domestic Violence

Military Family Appreciation Month

Wings bring flavor to the table

Bataan Memorial Death March

Who’s in your wallet?

36 38 39 40

Get into fitness gear Winner’s Circle Thank you USAA Plenty of programs at SKIESUnlimited

Customer Service ALWAYS top priority

Are you going to Make a Difference?

CALENDARS

REGULARS

07 11 15 34 36 37

03 21 44 50 54

October Events November Events December Events Outdoor Recreation Intramural Sports Youth Sports

www.bliss.armymwr.com

BEHIND THE SCENES

HOWLIN’ GOOD TIME

Director’s Note Milo Speaks ACS classes Fort Bliss Maps FMWR Phone Directory

30 37

ARE YOU STRONG ENOUGH? OCT | NOV | DEC

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Friday, October 28 & Saturday, October 29 6-10pm â&#x20AC;˘ Trading Post 1717 Marshall Rd. Info:588-8247

Grab your $2 Goosebumps library card for entrance to more entertainment and inflatable attractions, games, and more. Food & Beverage Vendors

Haunted Houses $1 Barely Scary, $2 Pretty Scary & $3 Massacre on Marshall Road

bliss.armymwr.com Sponsorship does not imply Army endorsement

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OCT | NOV | DEC

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EVENTS THIS

OCTOBER

Monthly Calendar

MWR CALENDAR

1 1 1 1 1 8-9 9-15 14 15 15 15 15 15 15 19 20

www.bliss.armymwr.com

20-21 21 21 21-23 22 22 27-28 28 28-29 28-30 29 29 29 29 31 31

A Call to Men: Feat. Tony Porter 10/20:9am; 10/21: 9:30am | FRC Bring Your Right Arm Night 4-9pm | Pershing Pub Paint N’ Pour 6pm | Mickelsen Library Big Bend Adventure Weekend | Big Bend National Park Harvest Festival 2-6pm | Milam Youth Center Fall Tri-Fecta Golf Tournament 8am-1pm | Underwood Golf Complex Domestic Violence the Musical 9:30-10:30am | Stayton Theater Haunted Pumpkin Patch 5-9pm | Old Fort Bliss Replica Monster Bash 6-10pm | Trading Post Halloween Basketball Tournament Weekend | Logan Heights PFC Halloween Boo-ling Party 12-3pm; 6-9pm | Desert Strike Lanes Floating Pumpkin Patch 5pm | ATC Builder’s Club 2pm | Mickelsen Library Challenge Course Day 10am-2pm | SAC Trick-or-T(read) 5-6:30pm | Mickelsen Library Post-wide Trick-or-Treat 6-8pm | Military Housing

OCT | NOV | DEC

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EVENTS THIS

* Events subject to change without notice. Info: bliss.armymwr.com or facebook.com/blissmwr

IRON SOLDIER SPRINT TRIATHLON

OCTOBER

TOUR DE CRUCES

Want to get out of El Paso and see what else the area has to offer? Then check out Tour De Cruces! Join Outdoor Recreation, Saturday, Oct. 1 for local sightseeing. This trip is all day and includes a driving tour of Old Mesilla. The tour will stop by the Farmer’s Market, visit historic sites and learn about the culture and history of El Paso’s sister city. Some trips may vary. It is open to the public. Registration is $10 and does include transportation. For more information, call 915-7441532.

Do you like to browse through cookbooks and try new recipes? Then grab your apron and sign up for this book club! Join Mickelsen Community Library, Saturday, Oct. 1 for Cook the Book! Participants get to explore the world of culinary arts and become a chef in their own flavorful way. Registration is required and can be done at the adult circulation desk at the library. Select your recipe and sign up. For more information, call 915-5681902.

COOK THE BOOK

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OCT | NOV | DEC

Join Fort Bliss Sports for our Iron Soldier Sprint Triathlon, Saturday, Oct. 15, at the Aquatics Training Center (ATC) located at 20733 Constitution Avenue. The race will begin with a 400M swim, then 15 mile bike and ends with a 5K run. Swim: 400 meters — Competitors will swim in a serpentine pattern and enter the water based on their average swim time. Bike: 15 miles — The entire course is paved. The 15 mile course begins near the ATC on Constitution Avenue, proceeds to East Bliss via the tank trail then back via Torch Road bridge and it will end on Constitution Avenue near the transition point. Run: 5K — The run will begin at the transition areas, through the roundabout in front of Soto Physical Fitness Center, north towards Old Ironsides. The route loops back to the finish line in front of the ATC. The course is on a flat, concrete surface. The race will begin at 7:30 a.m. The cost is $10 for active duty and individual team members, $45 for all other single participants, $65 for non ID card holder teams of 2-3 people. An additional $10 fee will be incurred for late registration. Early registration will be held at Soto, Stout and Milam PFCs and online at raceroster.com until Oct. 12. There will be no registration Oct. 13. Late registration will be Oct. 14 at 4-5 p.m. and Oct. 15 from 6-7 a.m. at the ATC. For more information, call 915-744-5785. facebook.com/blissmwr

MWR CALENDAR The Fall bi-annual yard sale is Saturday, Oct. 15 from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. throughout post housing. It is open to all those living in military housing and no permit is required. This is the perfect opportunity to unload some of your unwanted household goods especially if you have an impending PCS move. Shopping for this event is open to all including the El Paso Community. There will also be additional opportunities to shop at Old Fort Bliss Replica located at 5054 Pershing Road. For more information, call 915-568-2554.

POST-WIDE YARD SALE Join Outdoor Recreation, Friday - Sunday, Oct. 21-23 for the Big Bend adventure where you will have the opportunity to hike, explore and relax during this camping trip. You will enjoy guided tours that are structured to give you information about the region’s history, geology, wildlife and plant life. You will explore some of the most amazing canyons in this part of the United States. Space is limited and trips fill up quickly. Those interested are required to register in person at the Soldier Activity Center located at 20237 Constitution Avenue. The cost is $75 per person and it’s open to the public. For more information, call 915-744-1532 www.bliss.armymwr.com

27-28

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE THE MUSICAL: FIX THE HURT

In “Domestic Violence the Musical” there is no gender, race, religion or ethnicity that the audience can put onto the abuser. The performance leaves the audience with an important understanding, domestic violence can happen to anyone. It shows how it can effectively be handled by loved ones and the community at large. Join the Family Advocacy Program for “Domestic Violence the Musical,” Thursday, Oct. 27 or Friday, Oct. 28. There are showings at 9:30 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. on both days at Stayton Theater. It is free and open to the public. This is a powerful and educational artistic performance that encourages audiences to remember what they have seen and empowers them to help prevent domestic and dating violence. For more information, call 915-568-9129.

21-23

BIG BEND ADVENTURE OCT | NOV | DEC

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LUCHA LIBRE Nov. 10//@ 6pM Free // Open to the public

Mask vs. MAsk LOSER UNMASKED AT CENTER OF RING

MAQUINA 45 JR. EL HIJO DEL MARQUEZ

PAKAL PELUCHIN MALDAD

WWW.BLISS.ARMYMWR.COM page 10

INFO: 588-8247 OCT | NOV | DEC

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EVENTS THIS NOVEMBER

Monthly Calendar

MWR CALENDAR

1-3 4 4 5 5 5 5 5 5-6 10 11 12 18 19 19 19 19

19 20 26 27 28

ONGOING EVENTS

Story Time 2 Sessions: Tuesdays 10:15am & 11am Mickelsen Library School Age Book Club Wednesdays 4pm Mickelsen Library Paws for Reading Every 1st and 3rd Wednesday 4-5pm Mickelsen Library Do-It-Yourself Auto Safety Orientation Wednesdays, Thursdays: 6-6:30pm Saturdays: 8-8:30am Auto Crafts Center

THE BRANDS YOU WANT. THE CONVENIENCE YOU NEED. A great stay experience, no matter your mission. Whether you’re staying at the new Holiday Inn Express® on Ft. Bliss or IHG Army Hotels® Biggs Field on Ft. Bliss, you’ll enjoy a host of amenities including complimentary breakfast, free Internet and the convenience of staying inside the gates. Book your next stay now and see why the right place to stay is right on post.

IHGArmyHotels.com — 877.711.8326 www.bliss.armymwr.com

Sponsorship does not imply U.S. Army, Federal Government or Department of Defense endorsement.

OCT | NOV | DEC

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EVENTS THIS

NOVEMBER 5

* Events subject to change without notice. Info: bliss.armymwr.com or facebook.com/blissmwr

Spend the day at Chuck Heinrich Park on a guided mountain bike ride, Saturday, Nov. 19 with Outdoor Recreation. The trail will start with a hike-a-bike up the dam, then a continuous gradual climb for 1 mile, then turn onto Lazy Cow trail for a 3 mile section of single-track. There will be a stop at the ranch roundhouse, then head back down the trail to end at the Chuck Heinrich Park parking lot. The cost is $35 per person, bikes and helmets will be provided to all participants. Registration is required. Space is limited so sign up now! For more information, call 915-744-1532.

8 MILE BIKE RIDE

NIGHT GOLF SCRAMBLE When the lights go out, let’s glow golfing! Underwood Golf Complex will host a 9-hole night Golf Scramble, Saturday, Nov. 5 festivities will begin at 5 p.m. The cost is $40 per person and includes green fees, cart fees, glow gear, prizes, dinner and dessert. Dinner will be served at 6 p.m. at the Golden Tee Restaurant located inside the clubhouse. There will be a 7 p.m. shotgun start for the scramble. Awards immediately following the tournament. It is open to the public, 18 and older. Registration is required. For more information, call 915-568-1059.

PAINT N’ POUR page 12

OCT | NOV | DEC

19 The Library After Hours presents: Paint N’ Pour, a social painting class. Get together with friends and paint an acrylic masterpiece in a staff-led class from 6-8 p.m., Friday, Nov. 4 at the Mickelsen Community Library. Cost is $20, includes supplies, instruction and one glass of wine. Payment is due at time of reservation to confirm your spot in the class. Make sure to wear clothing, you do not mind getting paint on. It is open to DoD ID card holders, 21 and older. For more information, call 915568-1902. facebook.com/blissmwr

MWR CALENDAR

Like a challenge? Then take advantage of Fort Bliss Outdoor Recreation’s What A Loop hiking trip, Sunday, Nov. 20 from 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. Enjoy an 8 mile guided hike to the tallest point in all of Texas, Guadalupe Peak! The fee is $25 and does include transportation, guide service, some snacks and water. Registration is required and can be done at the Soldier Activity Center. For more information, call 915-744-1532.

WHAT A LOOP

TURKEY TROT

Don’t let all the holiday food get you down, sign up for the “Cold” Turkey Trot 5K, Saturday, Nov. 19 at Soto Physical Fitness Center and eat guilt free this season! The run will begin at 8:30 a.m. This is a Family-oriented event, so bring the children out, bundle up the little ones in strollers and don’t forget you can also bring your dogs! What makes the Turkey Trot so much fun and different is that first place winners in each category will www.bliss.armymwr.com

19 get a Cold Turkey! Enjoy your winnings with a turkey meal! Registration is required for the run and can be done at Soto, Stout, Milam PFCs or online at raceroster. com through Nov. 17. The cost is $10 for Active Duty and children 12 and younger, $20 all other participants. Late registrations is available Nov. 19 from 7-8:15 a.m. at Soto PFC, an additional $10 will be incurred. Packet pick up will be from 7-8:15 a.m. Nov. 19 at Soto PFC. For more information, call 915744-5785 or 915-744-5794.

LUCHA LIBRE Lucha Libre returns to Fort Bliss Thursday, Nov. 10 for an evening of authentic macho entertainment. The event will begin at 6 p.m. at Stout Physical Fitness Center where men wearing wacky spandex ensembles and colorful masks play out testosterone-fueled soap operas in high-spirted Mexican style wrestling. Presented by Border Impact Group, masked warriors show off their high-flying acrobatic maneuvers in matches consisting of 2-3 rounds each. There will be Mask vs. Mask, with Flamarion challenging Green Danger. The loser will be unmasked in the center of the ring! Then it’s tag team mania with Maquina 45 Jr. and El Hijo del Marquez vs. Pakal and Peluchin Maldad. It’s up to you who you root for as the popularity and skill of the fighters increase with each round. The event is free and open to the public. Join the fun at Stout PFC, located at 2930 Cassidy road. For more information, call 915-588-8247.

OCT | NOV | DEC

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Friday, December 2 * 5-9pm

bliss.armymwr.com

Trading Post, 1717 Marshall Rd. Info:588-8247 / bliss.armymwr.com

d a n y l s b a o e B in T H

Y A D I L O

16 0 2 T S FE

Free

pictures with Santa & Humpty Dumpty, mini donuts & hot cocoa & Outdoor Inflatable fun!

area kating s r le l rs. ro ow ou door r in r e o e b r F or yours *Bring tss/craf t r a r FRGs Indoo enefit b o t s d procee

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OCT | NOV | DEC

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EVENTS THIS DECEMBER

Monthly Calendar

Ham Shoot-out Tourney 11 Christmas 9am-2pm | Rod and Gun Club Course Day 17 Challenge 10am-2pm | SAC Brunch 18 Holiday 10am-1pm | Centennial Thank You Glow Bowling 24 Family 1-7pm | Desert Strike Lanes Stakes New Year’s Eve Bingo 31 High 4pm | Centennial with a Bang Bowling 31 Out 9pm-1am | Desert Strike Lanes

ONGOING EVENTS Group Tennis Class for Beginners Mondays & Wednesdays 8:30-10am Tennis Club

Paws for Reading Every 1st and 3rd Wednesday 4-5pm Mickelsen Library

Story Time 2 Sessions: Tuesdays 10:15am & 11am Mickelsen Library

Do-It-Yourself Auto Safety Orientation Wednesdays, Thursdays: 6-6:30pm Saturdays: 8-8:30am Auto Crafts Center

B FORT liss

SPECIAL OLYMPICS texas team

Team Bliss Special Olympics Seeks Track and Field Coaches and Volunteers! Register by January 9, 2017 at 915-533-8229 or visit www.sotx.org/get-involved. Once registered , please contact the Exceptional Family Member Program at 915-569-4227 (ext 5) or the School Liaison Office at 915-568-2784.

www.bliss.armymwr.com

OCT | NOV | DEC

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EVENTS THIS

* Events subject to change without notice. Info: bliss.armymwr.com or facebook.com/blissmwr

DECEMBER 2

8K HOLIDAY RUN HOLIDAY FEST

This holiday season, create priceless memories with your Family and fun works of art during the Holiday Festival 2016. This year’s theme is Babes in Toyland. Join the fun from 5-9 p.m., Friday, Dec. 2 at the Trading Post located at Bldg. 1717 Marshall Road on Fort Bliss. The event will feature free photos with Santa! There will also be free hot chocolate, cider and donuts. Dress warmly for this indoor/ outdoor event! For more information, call 915-588-8247.

It’s that time of year again! Santa is coming to town and he’s making a special stop at the Rod and Gun Club, Sunday, Dec. 4 for their annual breakfast feast! Enjoy a scrumptious all-you-can-eat buffet filled with holiday favorites from 8:30-11:30 a.m. The cost is $12.95 for adults and children, who are 11 and older, $6.95 for children between ages 5 and 10, children 4 years old and younger are free. Reservations are required. Be sure to bring your cameras to take photos with Santa and your wish lists! The Fort Bliss Rod and Gun Club is located at 3730 Roy Johnson Lane in Northeast El Paso. For more information, call 915-568-2983 or visit bliss.armymwr.com. page 16

OCT | NOV | DEC

Get ready to go dashing through the desert during the 8K Holiday Run, Saturday, Dec. 3 at Soto Physical Fitness Center. The run is open to the public and begins at 8 a.m. Early registration is $10 for active duty and children, who are 12 and younger, $20 for all other participants. Registration is required and can be done at Soto, Stout and Milam PFCs or online at raceroster.com. Early registration closes Nov. 30. Late registration is available from 7-8:15 a.m. Dec. 3 at Soto PFC. An additional $10 will be incurred. For more information, call 915-744-5785 or 915-744-5794.

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

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MWR CALENDAR

CHRISTMAS BALLOON SALE

Christmas is just around the corner, are you done with your shopping list? Maybe you should take this opportunity to shop for your golf friends or maybe buy yourself a little something at Underwood Golf Complex, Saturday, Dec. 10. The Christmas Balloon Sale will be from 7 a.m.-5 p.m., so take advantage of the discounts! While you’re shopping, enjoy complimentary wine (ages 21 and older) and cheese. Come into the Pro Shop, select your items and pick a balloon. Whatever discount is in the balloon will be for those selected items. Ping and Titleist items are not eligible. This event is open to the public, so come by and see what you can get for Christmas! Underwood Golf Complex is located at 3200 Coe Avenue in the Logan Heights area. For more information, call 915-568-1059.

GET YOUR COPY

of blissNOW mailed directly to you. Email your name and address to:

blissmwr@gmail.com

www.bliss.armymwr.com

Celebrate the holidays with a distinctive brunch from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 18 at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center. Enjoy an exciting variety of holiday delights, including an endless buffet, a lavish dessert table, and omelet and carving stations. There will be complimentary wine, champagne and mimosas. Brunch costs $22.95 for adults, $11.95 for children between ages 5-10 and free for children who are 4 and younger. Advance reservations are required.

HOLIDAY BRUNCH

The Centennial Banquet and Conference Center is located at 11199 Sgt. E. Churchill Street on Central Fort Bliss. For more information, call 915-744-1171.

Start the New Year off right with a little extra cash in your pocket. Join the fun and excitement, Saturday, Dec. 31 at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center for High Stakes New Year’s Eve Bingo! Try your luck at $2,000 in guaranteed cash prizes to win. Ticket buy-in is $50 and includes bingo paper pack, dinner, and a champagne toast to the New Year! Doors open at 4 p.m. and dinner begins at 6 p.m. There will be a New Year’s observance on the East Coast at 10 p.m. Registration is required and it is open to DoD ID card holders ages 18 and older. The Centennial Banquet and Conference Center is located at 11199 Sgt. E. Churchill Street on Central Fort Bliss. For more information, call 915-744-1171.

NEW YEAR’S EVE BINGO

OCT | NOV | DEC

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October is

Domestic Violence Awareness Month No one deserves to be abused, and anyone can be a victim. Even simple actions can make a difference.

Speak up: Be part of the solution

Know the warning signs. Learn safe and appropriate ways to raise the issue with friends and co-workers.

Take a stand to stop domestic violence. For assistance, contact:

• Your installation’s Family Advocacy Program • Domestic Abuse Victim Advocate • National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233

For more information, call Military OneSource at 800-342-9647.

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Keep everyone in our community safe.

OCT | NOV | DEC

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FAP TAKES ON

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Editor’s Note: Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation strives to give our readers the services and information they need in case of a domestic dispute. This article is from military.com news source and can be helpful for Families in need. If you or anyone you know is a victim of domestic violence, call the Domestic Violence Hotline at 915-269-2013 or visit the Family Advocacy Program located at 2494 Ricker Road.

Army.mil/News

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO —

The Family Advocacy Program is taking the lead this year in the Army’s campaign to give Soldiers and their Families the tools they need to avoid and prevent the occurrence of intimate partner violence. The U.S. Army Installation Management Command is making a concerted effort during Domestic Violence Awareness month to highlight their resources and strike a chord of resiliency on Army garrisons.

“We’ll have a campaign this year, activated at each garrison to highlight our programs to our Soldiers and Family members,” said Col. Anthony Cox, director of the IMCOM Family Advocacy Program, or FAP. “Our goal is to help them capitalize on their strengths to make their domestic situation a success.” The Family Advocacy Program is a congressionally mandated program intended to prevent and reduce the occurrence of Family violence and create an environment of intol-

MWR ARMY COMMUNITY SERVICE erance for such behavior. “Family Advocacy is the art of bringing public awareness about Family violence and prevention techniques to our Soldiers and spouses,” said Novella Magwood, IMCOM Family Advocacy specialist and program manager for domestic violence awareness month. “We have in our program the ability to help before a situation escalates into violence.” For Soldiers and Family members involved in domestic violence, early referral and intervention reduces risk, establishes safety plans and provides treatment for victims and offenders. The program manager is trained to be proactive in their efforts to provide the skills the Soldier needs most. “We offer classes, such as anger management, financial counseling and new parent training,” said Magwood. “Many times we’ll get a request from the commander to

go directly to the unit to conduct FAP training. This puts us in a position to meet the Soldiers and get the feedback we need to assist one-on-one.” Referrals work both ways. Family advocates work through outreach to assess a situation and refer the Soldier or couple to an Army Community Service- or chaplainled class, or to professional licensed therapists at the onpost medical treatment facility. Whether a Soldier asks first, or the commander instigates the contact, Family Advocacy is a stigma-free zone. “Soldiers fear that others will think badly of them or that their commander will take action against them,” said Cox. “In fact, the biggest stigma is seeing themselves as broken or damaged. Sometimes it takes a buddy to tell us ‘you guys are having problems and need to get help.’ If you hear that from your buddy, my advice is to go see the chaplain or go to ACS to get the help you need.”

NOW OPEN

1635 Pike Rd ★ pike & marshall

BRANCH FEATURES:

• Loans, new accounts

& safe deposit boxes • 24-hour ATMs • Extended Hours: Mon-Fri 8am to 8pm & Sat 9am to 3pm www.bliss.armymwr.com FirstLightFCU.org | 915-562-1172

OCT | NOV | DEC

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Courtesy photo/Survivor Outreach Services

Maira Alvarez, right, is pictured with her husband Sgt. Conrad Alvarez while pregnant with their son, Kristian. Top Right: Maira and her son, Kristian, pose with a photo of Sgt. Conrad Alvarez. Below Right: Maira poses with Sgt. Conrad Alvarez.

Support for Families FROM ANY of the Fallen – WAR ERA

Harvey Mikulencak and Helen Barrientes

FMWR Survivor Outreach Services

According to History.com, “On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918, an armistice, or temporary cessation of hostilities, was declared between the Allied nations and Germany in the First World War, then known as “the Great War.” Commemorated as Armistice Day beginning the following year, November 11th became a legal federal holiday in the United States in 1938. In the aftermath of World War II and the Korean War, Armistice Day became Veterans Day, a holiday dedicated to American veterans of all wars.” Veterans Day has been, for most, a time to celebrate our veterans. It is sometimes forgotten what the day actually means. Veterans Day is a reminder of what our veterans have done and continue do to for our country and reminds us to be page 20

OCT | NOV | DEC

grateful for the sacrifices they make for us every day. Although it is a day to give thanks to living veterans who served their country honorably, there are Families and veterans themselves, who remember their fallen on this day. “Veterans Day to me is a reminder of how much I love this country. I went in willingly, knowing the responsibilities that come with being a Soldier. I’m so proud to have served my country; my husband was also very proud to serve. The military is what he loved, it was his passion. He was an amazing infantryman who loved his job. I think of him all the time, and it hurts that he’s gone but he made his sacrifice doing what he loved the most,” said Maira Alvarez, former active-duty service member, who separated from the military after the death of her spouse, Sgt. Conrad Alvarez. He was killed in action Feb. 20, 2008 in Baghdad, Iraq. Many times after military Families have lost a loved one, there are unresolved issues or questions that may surface months or even years after the loss. In 2008, the Secretary of the Army responded by adopting a new program which extends support to Families of the Fallen for as long as

needed. The program is called Survivor Outreach Services (SOS), and is designed to provide dedicated and comprehensive support to Survivors to ensure that they receive all benefits to which they are entitled. Survivor outreach is available to eligible Family members on a full spectrum of topics. Services are provided by professionals with applicable licenses, degrees, industry certifications and designations. Services include but are not limited to Army benefits, financial counseling and budgeting, grief counseling, estate planning, health, life and long-term care insurance, life skills education, and referrals to professional support services. SOS services are available to all Survivors: spouses, children, parents, siblings, and friends who are grieving the loss of a Soldier regardless of the circumstances of the death. REMEMBER, RESPECT and HONOR our Fallen Military Heroes and the sacrifice and strength of Surviving Families who wear the Gold Star Pins. SOS is located at Bldg. 241 Sheridan Road on West Fort Bliss. For more information, call 915-568-5970. facebook.com/blissmwr

TRAVELING

with your pet

Munchie

Smalls

Hi friends, it’s me your favorite Family and MWR mascot Milo! I hope you guys are ready because the holiday season is right around the corner; and we all know what that means … traveling! Traveling with your furry friend can be easy and fun as long as you plan ahead. Let’s face it, your furry friends don’t like to be left at home during the holidays, they want to be with their Families. After all, this is the happiest time of year! That’s why I decided to give you humans a couple of tips when traveling with your four-legged friend. First, if you have to stay in a hotel, before you reach your final destination, make sure it’s pet friendly. I have stayed in lots of hotels with my Family and to be honest it’s my favorite part of traveling. Think of all the new smells and people we get to meet, and those beds … are pawsome! Next, if you are driving be sure to include stops for us! Stop by a local dog park or just a regular park. Some cities even have museums or tours open to dogs. One time, when I was traveling with my Mom and Dad, we stopped at an airplane museum. I got to take lots of really cool pictures in front of real life airplanes! If you are flying be sure to get all the shots your four legged friends’ need before you get to the airport. It’s very important for our doctors to make sure we are healthy enough to fly. Also, some of your furry friends might not like to be confined

www.bliss.armymwr.com

Penny

in small spaces. If that is the case, make sure to get them used to their carrying cases or crates before it’s time to use them. Lastly, is planning our meals. I’m gonna be honest, meal time is my favorite time of the day; and you can’t imagine how many places will let you bring your well-behaved pups, as long as they have an outside area. You don’t always have to eat fast food when traveling, if the weather is nice, stop by restaurants that have patios and let’s enjoy a meal together! Besides meal time, spending time with my human pack is the best. We go on so many adventures and we share every meal together. That’s what makes a Family a Family. So, don’t leave us at home this year, take some time and plan ahead, we promise it will be worth it!

Charlie

Paws and Kisses,

Kylie

OCT | NOV | DEC

& Hans

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Military Family

Appreciation Month Editor’s Note: Family and MWR asked Fort Bliss to send in their Family photos and describe to us, what it means to be a Military Family. During the process, some of our sponsors provided us with free giveaways as we randomly selected three lucky winners. Thank you to Story Book Cabins, MCM Elegantè Lodge and Resort, and Inn of the Mountain Gods for providing our Families with wonderful prizes!

Henderson Family

where, it’s who you live in it with. Some What it means to be a military Family friends ask me how I do it but when you to us is being able to support our nation do it with people you love it’s so easy and worth it. Sure it’s stressful at times, with pride and hard work. Not many your household stuff gets broken, your people get that opportunity and we’ve been lucky enough to be a chosen Fam- kids get sad about moving away from ily, to give our time and effort in support their friends and even those times your spouse is away from you for months but of freedom for all Americans. as long as you keep your faith, focus Atienza Family and stay grounded everything always “I signed up for this,” are the words works out. I believe it has been a blessing to have made this decision years ago I always tell myself whenever I need and wouldn’t trade the experience for to step up and act like a single mother because my husband is, again, away. It anything else. is sometimes lonely and often times, Braoudakis Family challenging. For my husband to serve What it means to be a military Family: the United States of America, the whole My husband and I make up our military Family needs to sacrifice. But, it doesn’t Family. A military Family is strong. end there, thankfully. Being part of a Strong enough to have been married one military Family means we get certain month and be separated by oceans for perks too... military discounts... to travel the next nine. A military Family is brave. and live in other states or countries... the Brave enough to not know the answers GI bill and more... And when the good to a lot of questions and still remain things happen, I also remind myself that, fearless. A military Family is resilient. “yup, we sure signed up for those too!” I Resilient through the good times and the am proud of the career path my husband bad. The Army Family is a strong one chose. And my son and I are happy that and we are too. we could be there for him and with him.

the strength to keep going and fight for what we believe in. Having the opportunities to live abroad and make friends that will last a life time. Being a military Family is more than just a Family, it’s where no one is left behind.

Britain Family

Being a military Family means so many things. However, I’d like to share one very special part of that. My husband and I recently found out we are expecting our first little one. We were so very excited and couldn’t wait to find out the gender. The more we talked about this the sadder we got, as we are from South Carolina and our Family and majority of our friends are all there and wouldn’t be able to be a part of a gender reveal with us. In the short time we’ve been at Bliss we have become great friends with three other military couples. As military Families know in this lifestyle it doesn’t take long for new friends to become Family! This being said, our little military FamGarza Family DeHart Family ily here at Bliss not only did a gender It is the foundation of love, support If you had told me I was going to and strength. Love because it is why we reveal for us complete with pictures of marry a Military man after growing up do what we do one step at a time. Having the reveal and a video so we could share with Family back home, but also had a a Military brat I probably would have that love gives us the ability to inspire BBQ after with gifts! said NO WAY! When I was little moving other military Families and friends. We No other lifestyle creates and nurtures around was annoying and inconvenient are the support system for our service bonds and friendships like those of the to me trying to make friends and moving men and women, and for Families who military Families. For my husband and schools. However now I LOVE being stay behind during deployment. Being part of my Military Family. I enjoy the there for one another no matter what the myself this is one of the most rewarding and special parts of being a military Fammoving around, meeting new friends military brings or where it takes us. In ily. We now have “Family” from all over and getting to take house after house times of struggles, we help each other the USA that we will forever remain close out bringing joy and compassion. We and make it our home every time. I with! “Military friends are the Family you manage to stay strong giving each other have learned it’s not what you live in or get to choose.” - Unknown

Huh Family

Being a military Family means unity. It means some days are more difficult than others. It means sometimes there page 22

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Henderson Atienza

DeHart

Britain

Braoudakis

Garza

Linton Huh

is an empty chair at the dinner table and using Skype to get help with math homework. We learn to make goodbyes quick and welcome home hugs last a lifetime. “Home” becomes wherever we are together, instead of a place. Being a military Family also means we have a special kind of pride in our dad as he serves his country. We’ve learned to do our best at everything we do, just like he does. We are strong for each other, persevering through the challenging times and cherishing the days we are all together. No two days are the same, and the only constant is change, but together we’ve www.bliss.armymwr.com

Perez-Strickland

learned to enjoy the adventure, and feel blessed to be a military Family.

Perez-Strickland Family

Being a military Family and a vet has made us a strong Family, especially dealing with deployment. We are also grateful because we are able to see different parts of the USA and the world due to the every 3 years assignments.

Linton Family

Being a military Family is an experience we all have known since we could

MILITARY FAMILY Continue on page 24 OCT | NOV | DEC

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MILITARY FAMILY

Rodríguez Family

facing or going through you can get through it if you believe in yourself.

Hello, my name is Omarelys Rodríguez. This is not the best Family picture Scheffer Family remember. Both my husband and I come but I can say it’s the best to be a miliBeing a military Family to us means from a military upbringing and have detary Family. that we as a Family feel a great pride for cided to also make that a part of our adult We are not the perfect Family but I our loved one that has chosen to serve lives and our children’s lives. Going from have learned that to be the wife of a our country. dual military to now having one of us Soldier, you have to live with the good The military has given us many opwho actively serves has really shown both and bad times. portunities that we would not have had of us all aspects of the Army life. There The true meaning of a military Family in the Civilian world. Our Family gets to are so many different components of our is always present. Whether it’s hapexperience new cities, vacation spots, and Military life but hopefully I can break piness, pain or sadness we are here to down the 3 ways it has really stuck to our support our Soldiers and Families. Our MILITARY FAMILY Continue on page 43 Family. Pride, Sacrifice and Resilience. lives are different from that of CivilPride: There is nothing more proud ians. Military Families go through a than a Soldier who is defending the free- lot and together can overcome all dom of our country. struggles. Sacrifice: From saying goodbye to Rogers Family loved ones for deployments to the For our Family what ultimate sacrifice of not being able to say welcome back, sacrifice is an aspect it means to be a military Family is of this life that unfortunately is present to have love, supthroughout our military communities Resilience: Only the resilient can hon- port, strength and orably serve and continue to be a part of encouragement. a military Family. “Challenges are what This photo was taken the night makes life interesting and overcoming them is what makes life meaningful.” — my husband was deployed. We Joshua J. Marine are currently in Leeworthy Family our first deployBetween deployments, PCS moves and ment. Rodriguez various aspects of life, there seems to be During this very few moments when things aren’t a time of beserious matter for today’s military Fami- ing apart we lies – us included. We look for ways to have learned capture some of those “un-serious” times to be each and enjoy ourselves as a Family, regard- other’s rock and less of where we live. strength to lean The Army has afforded us a multitude on during the of school and career opportunities that hard times. We Leeworthy Ayler we wouldn’t have anywhere else. It has have so much also offered us the chance to strengthen Rogers love and enour familial bonds with our free time. couragement The three of us enjoy cosplay and take for each time together to plan out and create our other, and own costumes from our favorite comic we support book and sci-fi movies. each other No matter what, we are always a team 100% no – in and out of costumes, and in and out matter what. of my husband’s career. No agendas nor I have worry for certain moments in time – just found that the joy of being us – together. through attending the wonderful church I have found Ayler Family here and practicing my faith Making Memories Frustrating Fields that it gives me the strength Scheffer Martinez Iconic Experiences Admired Patriotism and encouragement I need. Learning About Life Meeting Others We believe our children Illustrious Families Inspired Thoughts watch us and look up to Travel Hardened Love and Laughter us and even though we’re Adapting, Evolving Yummy Food nowhere near perfect, we try Restless Nights to stay strong and show them Yearlong Deployments that no matter what your Continued from page 23

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OCT | NOV | DEC

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WINGS

MWR FOOD&FUN

BRING FLAVOR TO THE TABLE

Chef Damien Donaldson FMWR Centennial Banquet and Conference Center

The holidays are no time to spend all day in the kitchen, with all the running around one has to do. Visiting friends and Family ... and of course there’s preparation for the big all day feast. So what does a person do? Consume half the holidays in line for take-out – spending half your paycheck, or you can get a jump on some of the food. One party favorite is wings, fortunately they’re inexpensive and easy to make at home. A couple of things to note before you get started, buy plain frozen wings at the grocery store, skip the flavored ones, which are not really the tastiest available and can also be overpriced. This is a time to let the inner “wing master” out in terms of flavorings. You can, of course, deep fry or bake your wings. If you decide to deep fry, wait until the frying is done before you start flavoring, even salt and other seasonings. My preference is baking; it will leave you a juicier wing, and your flavoring can be basted for a more intense flavor. I’ve listed different seasonings and flavors at the end you can try out.

Deep Frying

Be sure you’ve allowed the wings to thaw. Frying them while frozen is not the worst thing to do, but it tends to dry them out a bit. Be sure to dry your wings before putting them in hot oil; less splatter, and a better wing skin texture. I will purposely not give you a cooking www.bliss.armymwr.com

time, this will vary greatly from package to package and batch to batch. However, use tongs to take a test piece out of the oil and cut the wings in the center to the bone, juices should run clear and not pink. If the juices are clear, but there is slight pinkness at the bone that’s OK – remember when you remove the wings, carry over heat will continue to cook the wings – you don’t want to dry them out. As soon as you remove them from the oil add your seasonings (see below to pick your type of seasonings and flavor), don’t be shy go ahead, add more. Allow your wings to set for 3-4 minutes, then add your flavoring and toss/mix.

Baking

The seasoning process is different for baking your wings. Be sure your wings are dried, toss in oil – this will help the skin cook and crisp – then add your seasoning, again lots of seasoning is a good thing. Line a baking sheet with oiled aluminum foil. With your oven pre-heated to 400 degrees, place wings in oven. Remember every batch is different, so check the meat of the chicken after 15 minutes of baking. Instead of basting your wings while they are on the baking sheet, I prefer to remove the wings to a large bowl, add some of your flavoring, toss, and then place them back onto the baking sheet and into the oven for another 5 minutes. Repeat the basting process at least a total of 3 times, you really want a nice sticky coating.

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Free Shuttle Service Bookings at: www.theoutletshoppesatelpaso.com 915.877.3208

WINGS Continue on page 43 OCT | NOV | DEC

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B S t nl Banquet and Co At the Centennia, staff members work er nt Ce ference guests excellent hard to give theirce. Pictured are rvi se d an t. food r a formal even rooms set up fo

b e h i n d

Right: Virginia cook at the CenteCoger, prepares omelennial, customers durin ts for Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day br g the un Sunday, May 20 ch, 16.

the

Below: Jorge cook at the CenteGibbs, prepares food du nnial, ring the Easter brunch, Su nday, March 2016.

s ce

of FM n es WR: Ban Centen nial Con quet a feren n ce C d ente r

Leesa Sheppard, program manager at the Centennial, checks over the bingo system for the Big Bingo event held Sept. 2. She ensures that the bars are fully stocked, they have the right amount of product and inventory for any given event they may have and makes sure the bingo program operates ethically and efficiently.

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OCT | NOV | DEC

Photos by Natalie Hinojos/FMWR Marketing

facebook.com/blissmwr

Beate Kruger, ba nial, fixes up a nquet captain at the CentenCafè in the GIFcoffee for a customer at the Java cafes when needbuilding. Beate assists at the ed.

Colleen Downey, custodian, is training to become the operations assistant at the Centennial.

Raymond Vasquez, landsca the only landscaper who maiper, mows the lawn. He is ntains the upkeep outside of the Centennial.

Natalie Hinojos

Brian Arriola, cook at the Centennial whips up a Samuel Adams burger order for customers.

Family and MW R Marketing

Centennial is no t three, there’s a just one facility, but are all Behind the Scen ca Ja es will be a seri and the Cliffhang va Cafè at the GIF my em pable of doing more. I want articles describi ployees to be em er Cafè at the S ng the fundamen es of powered to do AC. what th tals of The Centennial Fort Bliss Famil ey Ban y and Recreation and Morale, Welfare ence Center is the quet and Confer- job done, think is correct to get the (FM and make sure th cility in the Arm largest catering fa- servic at customer Imagine walki WR). y e an is firs d ng into an el room, the atmos egant est in the city of El Pas the second larg- employee t. I don’t want any of my s to phere absorbs th o. sence of grace e es- kitchen than the El P It has a larger I’m just the say — ‘I can’t help you, as an one of the tabl d beauty, sitting at Center, which is the o Convention one who ca waitress, let me get somelargest catering es draped with n.’ — facility in w linen clothes, th comfortable an I want them to feel e utensils are hite All staf El Paso. d confident to set their proper plac f e, crystal glasse in to work members have the ability whatever situation they are assist in every job at th in filled with colo s are e Centennial. Tabitha has been with FM .” rful cloth napk T he y ar e in W tr every guest sitt ing at the lavish s for positions ained to assist in all vacant years. She started out as a R for 13 w in It is arranged with flowers, di table. working ef order to have the center the Centennial and kept m aitress at oving ficiently and effe mmed lighting and ward from oper de ct ations assistant forAll around, gues licate centerpieces. “I’m very blessed to be he ively. O at the ffi ce r’s Club re ts they’re attendin can feel as though with a great, great kitchen , I work ager at the C to now business manen st g a formal banq uet fit managers, I’m in heaven,” G aff and When ther tennial. for royalty. ua e da is an event for Tarango, cook for the Pavilion lupe 1,000 people 80 The Centennial C at at en tending Tabitha 0 to B th an te e nn qu ia et l. “I used to be and Conference Center st br wil in g in staffing fr a nurse, I ri om outside co l lence to every oc ves to deliver excel- ealike the kitchen! I love to see pe but panies. Since mstaffing fluctuat ople t the food and ju es actly that, every casion and to do exse st w rv sm it er h il s, e. sh ” e hires from differ E employee is trai ent comned to em ach position is important to know how to pr pa ni es , no t just op pl th all of their custom erly serve and assist Tab oyees and Business Manag e anywhere from one, in order to get itha Bohn, who er, 15 up to 40 se ers. works around th for a large even rvers Let’s go “Behin cl oc t. k e d to th keep her empl e Scenes” with the Centennial T he oy C ee en s tennial, and en happy B ence Center, w anquet and Confer- selves courages the staff to see them facilities and ca not only has three te here exquisite m or e than their ti serve delicious rs events, they also foods, “Peo drinks and servic foods Tuesday th ple will say thin tle. e starts here. rough gs like — ‘you Friday from 11 a. More than 1,50 can’t do th m. 0 the establishmen events are held at or custod at, you’re just the cashier for their lunch men to 1 p.m. Stop by ia us t ployees help m and only 29 em- people to n,’ — for me, I don’t like ads, burritos, pizz , whether it’s sala say you’re ‘jus aintain it all. or the special the day, the food t.’ The is ‘just’ anyt is cooked and se of hing,” said Tab Nobody rved itha. “We CENTENNIAL Continue on page 43

Lisa Kennedy, cashier at the Centennial, writes up the Daily Activity Reports (DAR). She has been working with FMWR for 32 years. Right: Damien Donaldson, FMWR executive chef, fixes grilled wings at the Centennial kitchen. Read more of his recipe on page 25.

www.bliss.armymwr.com

Guadalupe Taran prepares pizza forgo, cook at the Centennial, the daily lunch bu ffet.

Patty Garcia, waitress at the Centennial, helps answer the phones when needed.

OCT | NOV | DEC

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Presents

In El Paso BroadwayInSaginaw.com

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Month-long fall fun

Sarrah Morgan Family and MWR Marketing

Monster Bash Fort Bliss, get ready to celebrate Halloween with monstrous Family fun! Monster Bash is the area’s biggest

and best Halloween event. We promise this year will not disappoint, because we are not having just one day of fun, but two days of fun! The event will be 6-10 p.m. Friday, Oct. 28 and Saturday, Oct. 29 at the Trading Post. This year’s theme is Goosebumps, so get ready for Goosebumps themed inflatables, activities, crafts and entertainment. Participants will have the opportunity to purchase a library card at the event and get a stamp at each inflatable and craft. Once you fill out your card turn it back into the Goosebumps library for your chance to win great prizes! The fee for the library card and entrance to the inflatable area is $2 for kids 2-17 and $1 for those 18 and older. If you do not want to purchase a library card, there will be some free Family fun activities around the event, like face painting and a photo booth. There will also be food available for purchase from food trucks. The event wouldn’t be complete without haunted houses, there will be a Barely Scary Haunted House for $1, a Kinda Scary Haunted House for $2 and for those who are brave enough to enter the Massacre on Marshall Road the entrance fee will be discounted to $3 for this event only. We promise you, it’s a steal! Don’t forget about the free shuttle taking you from Monster Bash to Old Fort Bliss Replica’s Haunted Pumpkin Patch. The Trading Post is located at 1717 Marshall Road. For more information, call 915-588-8247.

Massacre on Marshall Road Voted the #1 scariest haunted house in El Paso and Las Cruces

by Annie’s Adventures you definitely don’t want to miss Fort Bliss MWR’s Massacre on Marshall Road! This haunted house is not for the young or the faint of heart, we have lots of bloody carnage, creepy clowns, zombies and terrifying sounds coming from every corner. If you think you can take it come out to the Trading Post, 1717 Marshall Road for 11 nights of fright! The horror begins Friday, Oct. 7 and will run Oct. 8, 14, 15, 20, 21, 22, 27, 28, 29 and 31! Doors open at 6 p.m. and close at 9 p.m., except Oct. 27, 28 and 29 it’s open until 10 p.m. and Oct. 31, we will be staying up late and shutting the doors at midnight. Admission is only $5 per person. Be there if you dare, but don’t say we didn’t warn you! For more information, call 915-588-8247.

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Harvest Festival

Don’t be a scaredy cat, come on out to the Milam Youth Center’s (MYC) 6th Annual Harvest Festival. The festivities begin at 2 p.m. and will run until 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 22. The Harvest Festival was created to bring members of the community together to enjoy some spooky Family fun. The festival is free and open to all military Families but is designed for Families with children 11 and younger. There will be a haunted house, face painting and games. All of which is coordinated and run by MYC students. The MYC is located at 10960 Haan Road on Central Fort Bliss. For more information, call 915-744-2449.

Haunted Pumpkin Patch Haven’t checked out Old Fort Bliss Replica yet? Well, now is

the best time to do it! Stop by Friday, Oct. 28 from 5-9 p.m. for their Haunted Pumpkin Patch! Pumpkins are available on a first-come first-serve basis for $5 each. All proceeds benefit OFBR. Limit two pumpkins per Family. You must be present to receive your pumpkin. You might be asking, “what makes this pumpkin patch haunted?” It’s the ghost stories told around the fire! Make sure to bring a lawn chair and a cozy blanket. There will also be face painting, food and beverages available for purchase. Don’t miss the free Haunted shuttle going from the Haunted Pumpkin Patch to Monster Bash! This is a great way to get from one event to another without having to find parking. Old Fort Bliss Replica is located on the corner of Pershing and Pleasonton Road. For more information, call 915-5888482.

www.bliss.armymwr.com

The Floating Pumpkin Patch

This definitely isn’t your regular pumpkin patch! Come out and swim around Saturday, Oct. 29 from 5-7 p.m. at the Aquatics Training Center for their annual Floating Pumpkin Patch! Participants will be able to get in the water and swim around while choosing the best pumpkin. This event is only open to the first 100 DoD ID card holders of all ages. There will also be face painting available. Please make sure to wear proper swim attire and to leave your Halloween costumes at home. Limit two pumpkins per Family. Swim fees do apply. The Aquatics Training Center is located at 20733 Constitution. For more information, call 915-741-5901.

Halloween Boo-ling Party

Get ready to have a booling good time Saturday, Oct. 29 at Desert Strike Lanes for their annual Halloween Boo-ling Party. There will be two bowling sessions to choose from, the first one running from 12-3 p.m. and the second running from 6-9 p.m. There will be complimentary snacks and a costume contest for the kids ages 1-17 during each session. So, if you want some Family friendly Halloween fun, this is the place to be. Desert Strike Lanes is located at 2949 Carter Road. For more information, call 915-568-6272.

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BATAAN MEMORIAL AMPUTEE USES INSPIRATION TO COMPLETE IN ANNUAL MARCH

Erin Dorrance /Missile Ranger Editor’s Note: This story was shared by our fellow Family and MWR at White Sands Missile Range from this year’s Bataan Memorial Death March held in the spring. Registration for the 75th Annual Bataan Memorial Death March opens Saturday, Oct. 1 online at Bataanmarch.com. Follow them on Facebook.com, search for Bataan Memorial Death March, they have updates on the upcoming event March 19, 2017. The first person to step over the start line at the 27th Annual Bataan Memorial Death March was the last person to finish. Kirk Bauer, an above-the-knee amputee began the march at about 7:25 a.m. and endured 26.2 miles of sinking sand, rolling hills and the chill of night when he crossed the finish line at approximately 10 p.m. White Sands Missile Range leadership and a group of 30 volunteers and fans cheered him on as the course officially closed down behind him. The 2016 Bataan was 68-year-old Bauer’s eighth Bataan Memorial Death March. “I hit a wall twice,” said Bauer. “First at mile 16 and then again at mile 21, but I kept going because I knew I had to finish. Everyone who does Bataan has someone who inspires them. For me this year, it was Retired Army Sgt. Ian Parkinson.” Parkinson was an infantryman who was deployed to Afghanistan in 2011 when an improvised explosive device took both of his legs one day when he was returning from a patrol, Bauer said. He endured 24 surgeries and two years of intense physical therapy to learn how to walk again using prosthetics. Parkinson is one of over 10,000 wounded warriors and Family members served by Disabled Sports USA’s Warfighter Sports rehabilitation program of which Bauer is the executive director for the charity. “I am not sure the ordinary marcher understands what physical effort the Bataan Memorial Death March entails for these warriors,” said Bauer. “Studies in which Disabled Sports USA was involved in the 1980s show that a double above-the-knee amputee like Ian expends 200 percent to 300 percent more energy conducting the same activity as a non-disabled person. This means that he had to train for two or three Bataan marches to make it through the course. And he did it without the help of walking aides like walking sticks or fore arm crutches. As an above-the-knee amputee, I always use walking sticks when hiking and could not really do that activity without them. So the fact that Ian was able to do so attests to his efforts at getting extremely fit and strong.” Bauer is a combat veteran who lost his leg when he was hit by a grenade in 1969 while deployed fighting in the Vietnam War. He was awarded two Bronze Stars for heroism and is the recipient of the Purple Heart. While Bauer underwent seven operations in one year and painful physical therapy, he started to give up hope. But one weekend he went skiing, a favorite past time, and his hope was restored. He returned back to physical therapy with a new goal of getting strong enough to do all of the sports he loved to do before his injury. Courtesy Photos by Drew Hamilton/Missile Ranger Disabled Sports USA was the charity by his side to facilitate that goal. Kirk Bauer, right, poses with retired Army Sgt. Ian Parkinson during the 27th Annual Bataan Memorial Death Today, as the executive director of Disabled Sports USA, Bauer is able to motivate thouMarch at White Sands Missile Range. page 32

OCT | NOV | DEC

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Kirk Bauer reaches the Bataan finish line March 20.

DEATH MARCH

sands of wounded warriors to complete their physical therapy and then adapt sports to warriors with disabilities so they can develop independence, confidence and fitness through participation in community sports, recreation and educational programs. Bauer said his organization, headquartered near Washington D.C. with 124 chapters in 42 states, offers severely injured veterans more than 30 sports to include skiing, snowboarding, biking, scuba diving, surfing, rock climbing, archery, equestrian and water skiing. One of Bauer’s favorite sports is mountain climbing and he was privileged to lead a team of amputee veterans on a successful summit of Mount Kilimanjaro in 2010 at 19,341 feet, which is the highest mountain in Africa. In 2015, he led an all-wounded veteran team up to Mount Aconcagua, which is 23,000 feet, and is the tallest mountain in South America. Bauer said Bataan is a qualifier for warriors to complete in order to do the mountain climbs. The event is perfect because it is an extreme event that tests the human body, especially for amputees. In 2005, when the wounded warriors approached Bataan organizers about doing the grueling march, there were some people who thought the course, especially the high altitude and sinking sand would be just too much of an obstacle for amputees. “We welcomed the wounded warriors to participate, but we never thought we would see them achieve the goals they have accomplished,” said Steve Zagar, WSMR chief of Family and Morale, Welfare, Recreation. “They continue to amaze us every year with their strength, determination and positive attitudes.” “White Sands Missile Range has rolled out the red carpet for us wounded warriors and the event is something that we all look forward to every year,” said Bauer. “Bataan is a goal for wounded warriors in physical therapy. Training for Bataan puts them into overdrive because they now have a goal to achieve. Once they complete Bataan, many of them are ready to return to active duty or return back home to go to school or continue their lives post injury.”

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Designated A

MILITARY FRIENDLY SCHOOL 7 Years in a Row 14 PROGRAMS OF STUDY

PLUS! Short Term Certification Training

10% TUITION DISCOUNT

Tuition reduction option is available to active and honorably discharged veterans and their immediate family members. Discount for tuition only.

VISIT OUR Ft. BLISS OFFICE

Building 616 - Main Post Corner Of Marshall & Taylor Rd. Two Locations In El Paso, Texas

866-286-9764

WESTERNTECH.EDU

For more information about our graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed the program, and other important information, please visit our consumer website at westerntech.edu/academics. Revised 3/2/2016. OCT | NOV | DEC

page 33

ODR Activities Calendar

Level of Activity Intensity Easy: Family oriented, little conditioning required Medium: Average physical conditioning, caution with small children Difficult: Young adults and adults in good physical condition Extremely Difficult: Special skills required to participate

4 hours (Half Day Trip)

8 hours (Full Day Trip)

16+ hours (Overnight Camping)

Fort Bliss Outdoor Recreation Events. This schedule is subject to change without notice. All off-post excursions may be CANCELLED within 2 weeks due to lack of participation. Tickets to scheduled events can be purchased at the following location:

ROBERTO LOEZA SOLDIER ACTIVITY CENTER - 20732 CONSTITUTION AVE., CENTRAL FORT BLISS - (915) 744-1532

When

What

Where

Activity

Cost

October 1st

BIGG Laser Tag: Outdoors at Biggs Park, a team of players Tour de Cruces & Vineyard Las Cruces, NM (Old Mesilla)

Market,Wine/Vineyard tour $10

8th

Bliss Boulder Battle (Youth) Soldier Activity Center

Bouldering Competition

$30

9th

Bliss Boulder Battle

Soldier Activity Center

Bouldering Competition

$30

9th

Reel Rock 11 Film Tour

Eastpoint Cinema (7pm)

Reel Rock 11 Film Tour

$10 $10*

14th

BIGG Laser Tag

Biggs Park

Night Laser Tag (all ages)

15th

Tower Day

Tango Tower, Biggs Park

Tower Activities (ages 6+) $10*

21-23rd

Big Bend River Adventure

Big Bend, TX

Canoeing & Camping

$75

Challenge Course Day

Soldier Activity Center

High Ropes Challenge

$10*

McKittrick Canyon

Hiking, Photos & Picnic $20

29th

General Information

November 5th

Fall Colors Adventure

4-6th

Wilderness First Aid Class Soldier Activity Center

Learn wilderness first aid! $200

11th

Soto Laser Tag

Soto Gym

Night Laser Tag (all ages)

12th

Tower Day

Tango Tower, Biggs Park

Tower Activities (ages 6+) $10*

19th

8 Mile Mountain Biking

Chuck Heinrich Park

Mountain Biking

20th

What A Loop

Guadalupe Mountain

Summit Highest Peak inTx $25

26th

Challenge Course Day

Soldier Activity Center

High Ropes Challenge

$10* $35

$10*

December

attempt to score points by tagging targets with a hand-held infrared-emitting targeting device. This is an all ages event.

Tower Day: Open day of challenge course tower climbing, with five climbing challenges to choose from! These events are paid for at Biggs Park on the day of the event.

Reel Rock Film Tour: Hosted in part by Reliance Outdoor

and Climbers of Hueco Tanks Coalition. We will have prizes for the winners of each category.

Rock Climbing:

Enjoy either sport climbing or bouldering with a certified guide and instructor. Bring a positive attitude and the will to challenge yourself and we'll make sure you are safe and in good hands. All equipment is provided as well as transportation to and from climbing sites.

Fall Colors Adventure: With beautiful trees changing

color and historical landmarks weathering away, McKittrick Canyon offers one of the best hikes in the southwest United States.

Big Bend Adventure: Enjoy a weekend of camping, canoeing, and a whole lot of fun! This trip will take place in the Big Bend National Park. Transportation, some meals, equipment, and park admission will be provided.

Family Day at the Wall: The wall will be open for ages 4

and up from10am-6pm. Must weigh at least 30lbs. Time limits may apply. Climbing available on a first come, first-served basis.

What-A-Loop: Like hiking? Then, join us for a challenging hike to the tallest point in all of Texas the Guadalupe Peak!

2nd

Soto Laser Tag

Soto Gym

Night Laser Tag (all ages)

3rd

Tower Day

Tango Tower, Biggs Park

Tower Activities (ages 6+) $10*

17th

Challenge Course Day

Soldier Activity Center

High Ropes Challenge

$10* $10*

Bliss Boulder Battle: Have you always wanted to try

bouldering? Well, now is your chance! Join us for a bouldering competition and a screening of the film Reel Rock 11.

Camping, Climbing & Specialty Equipment Rental Price is per day - *Batteries not included

Sleeping Bag Cook Sets (big / small) 4-6 Person Tent Backpacking Stove *Lantern Bouldering Pad Spooner Board Shade Canopy GPS Device Flotation Device

$6 $6 $10 $4 $3 $10 $5 $10 $5 $4

2-Burner Propane Stove 2-3 Person Tent French Press Coffee Maker *Headlamp Dish Washing Kit Chalk Bag Wild River Tubes Water Jugs Snow Shoes (child)

$6 $8 $2 $1 $1 $3 $6 $2 $6

Sleeping Pad Personal Dish Set Backpack Alpine Dish Set Climbing Shoes Kayak Set Snow/sand Disc Sleds Ice Chest Snow Shoes (adult)

$1 $6 $6 $6 $4 $30 $2 $4 $8

Bike Rental (Mountain / Road)

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2 Days

OCT | NOV | DEC

$40

7 Days

** $10 dollars per individual or $35 per family of four. $10 each additional person in the family. You are responsible for park entrance fees. *** Event is dependent on water levels and may be cancelled if water is too low. $80 for family of four, $25 for each family member over 4 years old.

Fort Bliss Outdoor Recreation

Bike rentals start at $2 per hour /per bike - Late Fees: 1 hour - $4 • 2 hours - $6 • 6 hours - $12 • 24 hours - $20

1 Day or Overnight $20

* Pay day of @ Biggs Park/Soldier Activity Center/Soto Gym

$100

facebook.com/BlissODR or bliss.armymwr.com

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WHO’S IN YOUR

WALLET?

Zenaida Gutierrez

Personal Financial Readiness Specialist

“Wait. What? My credit card wants how much? When?” If you spend without a plan, it can get out of hand before you know it. Don’t be that “person” who opens the credit card bill on Feb. 1 wondering how they got there. After all, Christmas comes the same time every year along with Back to School expenses and summer vacations. These are recurring annual events and without a change in habits you’ll be asking yourself the same questions year after year. Let’s take a few minutes and figure this out together. First, how much is in your savings? That’s a hard question to answer, because most Families use their savings like a revolving expense account to cover bills that were not properly planned for. You should plan to have three separate saving accounts at another financial institution. Set up an allotment and forget about it. The first of the three savings should be for your emergency account when a tire blows out, or you have an accident and need to pay your deductible. This is preferably 10% of your pay. The second savings account would be for those pesky nonmonthly expenses such as www.bliss.armymwr.com

school clothes, sports equipment or uniforms, oil changes, gas money, holiday decorations and gifts. Start with your projected expenses that ‘POP’ up every few months or even once a year. Total up the projected expenses over the next 12 months then divide by 12. For the third savings account set goals. Talk to your spouse and include the children. Yes, the little darlings that cost over $200,000 each for 18 years. If they are old enough to know when you get paid or receive an allowance, then they are old enough to understand the Family’s need to plan together. Do not overwhelm your children who are younger than 13 with too many details. It’s not their responsibility to worry about debt. However, they should know how much the Family needs to save to accomplish financial goals; for example, a vacation or a new washer and dryer. It’s important to share the responsibility of money management and bill paying with your partner. Do not leave them unaware of what and when Basic Living Expenses (BLE) need to be paid. Always check your banking account summary going back 90 days. Start with your current balance and see what has and has not been paid.

List your expenses by priority: rent, food, hygiene, basic utilities, auto payment, insurance, gas and haircuts. Don’t forget the due dates. Total up how much it costs to live or BLE. Now we add debt to the list and, again, don’t forget your due dates. Garnish-

ment from your paycheck is not a responsible way of paying your Star Card. Total up all your debt. Add the BLE and debt together then subtract that from your net income. See what we just did? A spending plan! A budget! Plan for financial success and do it. In a year or two you may even be debt free. To get started, contact a Personal Financial Readiness Specialist at Army Community Service (ACS), located at Bldg. 2494 Ricker Road or call 915569-8376. By the way, there’s free childcare during your appointment. For more information, call CYS at 915-568-5689.

OCT | NOV | DEC

page 35

Intramural Sports Calendar A list of upcoming sports. Search by event, date or location. This schedule is subject to change without notice. For more information on the sports program: 915-744-5794

October 15 5th Annual Iron Soldier Sprint Triathlon

@ Aquatics Training Center: Open to Public

28-30 2nd Annual Nathaniel A Lacour

Halloween Classic Basketball Tourney

@Logan PFC: Open to Public

29 Floating Pumpkin Patch Swim

@ Aquatics Training Center: DoD ID card holders

November 1 Commander’s Cup Swim Meet @ Aquatics Training Center: Active-Duty only

5 7 vs 7 Soccer Tournament @ Soto PFC: Open to Public

9 Commander’s Cup Trap & Skeet Shooting @ Rod and Gun Club: Active-Duty only

19 5k Cold Turkey Trot @ Soto PFC: Open to Public

December

GET INTO FITNESS

Kirsten Franka

FMWR Sports and Fitness

“The Bend and Reach. Starting position, move” … Soldiers are very familiar with these words. Whether you love or hate Army Physical Readiness Training (PRT) and 6:30 a.m. PT, both are an integral part of Army culture. But did you know that the Fort Bliss MWR Group Fitness department has something different to offer its Soldiers every morning for PT? Several different group fitness classes, led by certified instructors, are offered on Central Bliss at Soto Physical Fitness Center (PFC) and West Bliss at Stout PFC. These classes are a great alternative to regular Army PRT. While group fitness classes cost Fort Bliss patrons $2.20-$3 per class, classes offered between 6 a.m. and 7:30 a.m. are free for active-duty Soldiers in uniform. DoD ID holders are welcome to attend PT classes, so long as Soldiers are not displaced, with the purchase of a daily ticket. There are multiple classes to choose from throughout the week, enabling Soldiers to incorporate maximum variety into their training, which in turn keeps them motivated to push harder during morning PT. There is no need to reserve a class for unit PT – all classes on the group fitness schedule are offered on a first come, first serve basis. Group Fitness will take reservations from units for Friday Indoor Cycling classes as well as any other request for instructor guided classes that are not currently on the schedule for a small fee to pay the instructor. Please contact the Group Fitness Director at 915-744-5800 or 915-744-5790 for any inquires. There is plenty of variety to keep things from getting boring, with multiple class options. Indoor Cycling is offered Monday

through Thursday, and on Fridays with unit reservation. There are several different instructors, each class is taught with its own style and flair, to give participants a sweat-drenched workout. Space is limited to the number of cycles available, so get there early. MEF 2.0 (Mission Essential Fitness) is functional training which incorporates power, strength, speed and agility, to prepare the Soldier with the highest level of fitness necessary to achieve mission success. In this class, Soldiers will train as tactical athletes both aerobically and anaerobically. Insanity® LIVE is the live version of the at-home DVD workout of the same name, created by Shaun T. Many participants come in expecting to do the videos, but each class is different from the athome version – but just as challenging. Bring a towel, because you will sweat. TRX Suspension training was created by Navy SEALs, and uses bodyweight exercise to develop strength, balance, flexibility and core stability simultaneously. It requires the use of the TRX Suspension Trainers, to leverage gravity and the user’s body weight to complete hundreds of exercises. Class size is limited to 30 participants, be sure to get there early to reserve your spot in class. Bootcamp class is a circuit style training experience meant to work every muscle group in the body. Instructors focus on one muscle group at a time, working to muscle failure, but throw in plenty of cardio to give participants both, intense strength training and cardio in one session. To find monthly group fitness schedules visit any of the fitness facilities, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/teamblisssports or at bliss.armymwr.com.

3 8k Holiday Run

@Soto PFC: Open to Public

3 Polar Bear Plunge

@Soldier Activity Center Pool: Open to Public

9 Knocker Ball

@Soto Field: Active-Duty only

page 36

OCT | NOV | DEC

facebook.com/blissmwr

Youth Sports Calendar A list of upcoming sports. Search by event, date or location. This schedule is subject to change without notice. For more information on the youth sports program: 915-568-2617

boys' winter basketball Ages: 5-15 Registration Period: Sept. 15 - Oct. 17 Season Dates: Nov. 2016 - Jan. 2017 Cost of 1st Child: $40 Cost of Additional Child: $34

Photos by Sarrah Morgan/ FMWR

ARE YOU STRONG

Participants take the test to compete in last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sun City Classic at Stout Physical Fitness Center.

ENOUGH?

John Barela

Family and MWR Ironworks West

The 4th annual West Texas Championships will take place Nov. 5 at Stout Physical Fitness Center. This event is sanctioned by the American Powerlifting Association. Competitors must be members of the

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American Powerlifting Association (APA) to participate and the cost is $40. Competitors can be active duty, reservists, retirees, spouses, DoD Civilian employees and Civilians. The sign-up fee is $80 for one division and $110 for two divisions. Sign up and pay for the event on the APA website at http://www.apa-wpa. com/APA/EntryForms/2016APAWestTe xasChampionshipsEntryForm.htm. There are multiple lifting categories such as Powerlifting, Bench Press only, Deadlift only, and Push and Pull. Participants can also sign up in their appropriate divisions that include age group, active duty military, police/firefighter or veterans division. The events for the competition will be Squat, Bench Press and Deadlift. The top three individuals in the divisions will receive a trophy for first, second and third place. Official rules and regulations can be found on the APA website listed above. For more information, call Ironworks Gym at 915-744-5201.

girls' winter basketball Ages: 5-15 Registration Period: Sept. 15 - Oct. 17 Season Dates: Nov. 2016 - Jan. 2017 Cost of 1st Child: $40 Cost of Additional Child: $34

boys'spring soccer Ages: 3-15

Registration Period: Dec. 15 - Jan. 15, 2017 Season Dates: Feb. 2017- Mar. 2017 Cost of 1st Child: $40 Cost of Additional Child: $34

girls' spring soccer Ages: 3-15

Registration Period: Dec. 15 - Jan. 15, 2017 Season Dates: Feb. 2017- Mar. 2017 Cost of 1st Child: $40 Cost of Additional Child: $34

OCT | NOV | DEC

page 37

THE WINNER’S CIRCLE WIT: This award is given to an individual or organization outside of FMWR that has provided assistance to FMWR.

• Kenneth Brooks • SFC Kentrez grant • Kyle Morgan • William Green • SSG BoJared horsey • SFC Jose Ramirez • William Sutton • Jerry McKinney • Nathan Buckley • Robert Harding • LAfaele Ese • Robert Buckner • Laura McCarthy • Maria Silva • Special Agent Raymond Sifuentes • William Schlick

page 38

OCT | NOV | DEC

Humanitarian Award This award is given to recognize outstanding individuals who have distinguished themselves by conducting an act of humanitarian nature or an act towards saving a human life.

Milam PFC

Elvira Arney Daniel Ortiz

East Bliss CDC Infant Team

Maryland Veasley Ayanna Watson Charmaine Smith Cynthia Sanchez

East Bliss CDC

Jeanette Maiten

The following employees are “Commitment to Excellence” winners for routinely providing exceptional service to internal and external customers.

EXCELLENCE

of FMWR

Each quarter, Family and MWR holds the Winner’s Circle award ceremony to recognize employees who have provided 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, outside agencies, or are identified by name in an ICE comment.

Commitment to

Friends

Whatever It Takes

CRD MICKELSEN LIBRARY LISA DAVE

FMD LISA HENSEN

CYSS PARENT CENTRAL NICOLE SLATTERY RITA O’CONNOR

CRD McGREGOR RANGE BRIAN FORMAN

DFMWR LUCY FLORES facebook.com/blissmwr

ACHIEVEMENT AWARD Cynthia Ellis Joseph Fedalizo Inez Joradan Kris Woodson Virgle Jones Kenneth Guillermo George Schmidt

25 years Nancy Thomas-Mainor Manuel Vasquez Joseph Fanion Fiona Marchese

20 years Trent Bahr Ruth Gardea Tamar Holterman Charles Budd Brian Arnold

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Award Joseph Fedak

EFFECTIVE

TEAM The “Effective Team” award is given to recognize the accomplishments of teams who work together in harmony to produce outstanding results.

Rachel Arizaga Kathryn Thomson Jamie Buckner Lisa Dave Christian King Laura Lambe Stacy Walker

LIBRARIES

30 years

Recognition

CRD

Length of Service

KRISTOPHER BROWN

Photo by Natalie Hinojos/FMWR

Sponsors — Lee Handy, Liza Meade and Kimberley Esquibel — from USAA attend the annual Rock the Fort event in August.

THANK YOU

USAA Marlo Brestar

Family and MWR Marketing

I am sure you have seen Lee Handy and other USAA team members at one of our many events. Whether it be giving away swag or talking about services, USAA is and always has been one of Fort Bliss Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation’s biggest supporters. You can always find Lee Handy and his team lending their time, efforts and monetary support to provide for FMWR, our Soldiers and our Families. It is very humbling to work with sponsors who take as much pride in what they do as we do. Fort Bliss FMWR would like to say “Hats off to USAA, Lee Handy and the entire USAA team.” We hope you realize the tremendous impact USAA has had and how you continue to make a difference in the lives of Soldiers and their Families by helping them protect what is most important. We couldn’t do what we do without you! Thank you USAA!

OCT | NOV | DEC

page 39

MWR CHILD,YOUTH & SCHOOL SERVICES

PLENTY OF PROGRAMS AVAILABLE @ Rachelle Phillips

Family and MWR Marketing

Did you know? SKIESUnlimited offers multiple areas of school style instruction in Academics, Fine Arts, Life Skills and Sports. SKIES is open to all children from 12 months old to adolescents. The School of Academics offers a variety of classes that promote healthy learning habits for school age children. If your child is in need of just a little extra help there is semiprivate tutoring available. The class is devoted to teaching and re-enforcing subjects and concepts that are brought to the attention of the instructor. In addition, all of the subject areas the student is responsible for will be reviewed. Semi-private tutoring is offered during weekdays and can be scheduled for one hour; parents are able to set up a maximum of eight sessions a month. There are also other classes available such as Homework Club, Secondary Academic

Support and Advanced Academic Support. In the School of Fine Arts, they provide dance, art and music classes. The dance program offers ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop and Broadway dance for ages 3 to 17. If your child enjoys art and would like to learn about selfexpression and the difference between modern and traditional art, there’s also a class for them! Does your child enjoy making music? Well, there are a variety of music classes offered for children between the ages of 5 to 17. If your child loves to bang on things, then why not get them involved in drum classes? This class is offered in a group or private setting, as well as guitar and piano classes. These programs will teach your child proper technique and appreciation of all music genres. When it comes to building upon life lessons the School of Life Skills has a wide range of courses. They range

from swimming, for children ages 3 and older, to Driver’s Education. If your child enjoys swimming, classes start as early as age 3. In levels 1 and 2 students begin learning about water safety, survival skills, and fundamental swimming. They can eventually move into levels 3 and 4, where they will learn different strokes such as the breast stroke and butterfly as well as diving. They’ll even have a chance to compete! SKIES offers a babysitting course for students who are interested in making a little money or maybe want to help watch their younger siblings. This course is great for them! It offers students, ages 11 and older, an opportunity to learn how to properly care for a child. They will discover the business of babysitting, everything from entertaining to changing diapers. Students will also learn CPR, first aid and the principles of child development. The School of Sports is one

Children participate in “Tumble and Me” and drum lessons, two of the many programs available at SKIESUnlimited. page 40

OCT | NOV | DEC

of the largest in the group programs offered by SKIESUnlimited. There is truly something for everyone! Parents, you can get involved, whether it be joining the Parent & Me Tumbling class or volunteering for a gymnastics meet. SKIESUnlimited also offers a variety of Gymnastics of all levels. The program ranges from the Parent & Me Tumbling to Gymnastics levels 3 and 4. Our SKIES gymnasts also participate in competitions. However, these are by coach invite only. There are also other fun activities such as cheerleading, archery, fencing, Judo and Tae Kwon Do! All of these awesome, fun and empowering sports will teach children discipline, hard work, and how wonderful it feels to achieve something. They will also be able to make friends with the same interests and learn to show support and teamwork! For more information about SKIESUnlimited Programs, call 915-568-5544.

Photos by Rachelle Phillips/FMWR Marketing

facebook.com/blissmwr

Rachel Arizaga FMWR Mickelsen Community Library

NEW SPACE OPENS UP FOR CREATIVITY

The FMWR Fort Bliss Libraries are pleased to announce the opening of a MakerSpace within the Mickelsen Community Library! The Mickelsen Community Library is the first Army FMWR library to have a dedicated MakerSpace. In 2015, Fort Bliss Libraries applied for and received a grant from IMCOM as part of the Million Dollar Library Makeover Grant that was open to all Army FMWR Libraries. Fort Bliss Libraries were allocated $42,000 to renovate a dusty storage room and turn it into a space for innovation and collaboration.

What is a MakerSpace?

Value of MakerSpaces

MakerSpaces fill a variety of needs within an educational setting. Most importantly, they provide opportunities for people to learn with their hands. Hands-on learning and creation is often devalued in education and seen as meaningless play. However, play has profound educational benefits. Play aids in the development of critical thinking and problem solving skills. MakerSpaces also allow us to expose our community to cutting-edge technologies that could eventually lead to new entrepreneurial opportunities. By providing the Fort Bliss community with access to the tools and technologies to design and build projects, the library can help people gain new knowledge and develop marketable skills.

You might be wondering just what is a ‘MakerSpace.’ A MakerSpace is a place where What will you make? people come together to deAt the heart of the Fort Bliss sign and build projects. MakerLibraries’ MakerSpace is a Spaces typically provide access commitment to growth, learnto materials, tools and teching, and exploration. In particunologies to allow for hands-on lar, we strive to be the intellecexploration and participatory Photos by FMWR Mickelsen Community Library tual hub on Fort Bliss—a place learning. are the different materials, tools and technologies Makerspace provides at Mickelsen where Soldiers, Family memMakerSpaces emerged around Pictured Community Library. 2006 as an offshoot of the Dobers, retirees, and DA Civilians It-Yourself (DIY) movement. A can gather to explore, create, MakerSpace often includes a 3D printer, digital media and fab- and gain new knowledge. By bringing a MakerSpace to Fort rication software, tools for building, woodworking and soldering, Bliss Libraries, we can provide more options for self-directed, traditional arts and crafts supplies and other electronics. However, innovative learning; we can provide a space that acts as an incuMakerSpaces are defined not by specific equipment, but by a guid- bator for ideas; and we can provide tools for the rapid prototyping purpose to provide people with a place to experiment, create ing of those ideas. Be on the lookout for programs, classes, and and learn. The MakerSpace in the Mickelsen Community Library events in the MakerSpace! is comprised of four main areas: hands-on area (giant Lego wall, Lego/Tinker Toy top table, marker board wall, marker board table, Information chalk wall), DIY area (worktable, power and hand tools, building Makerspace is open Tuesday through Friday 1-5:30 p.m., Satsupplies), arts & crafts area (sewing machines, circuit, wood burn- urdays 11 a.m.-6 p.m. and it is closed Sundays and Mondays. ing tools, heat presses, various craft supplies), and a tech area (3D Children ages 8 and older are able to go in, however 13 and printer, vinyl-cutting plotter, laptops, iPads, robotic kits, circuitry younger must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. For more information, call 915-568-6170. kits, various software packages). www.bliss.armymwr.com

OCT | NOV | DEC

page 41

MWR ARMY COMMUNITY SERVICE

Commitment to our pledge Cathie J. Garner

Family and MWR Service Culture Educator

“Know what your customers want most and what your company does best. Focus on where those two meet,” said Kevin Stirtz, Strategy Manager at Thomson Reuters. Customer Service is and has always been a top priority for Family and MWR. Our primary focus is centered on what the customer wants and what we do best. We understand our purpose and our goal is to provide exceptional products and services to enhance the quality of life for our customers. We make it our business to

Customer Service

ALWAYS

TOP PRIORITY

stay current and provide the kind of innovative service customers want. We continually strive to go above and beyond to ensure they are well taken care of and unique needs are met. That is what FMWR does best. Our service to the customer goes beyond the fulfillment of a promise to provide

quality service. We want to provide exceptional customer service! FMWR is committed to providing quality service excellence to our Soldiers and their Families commensurate with the quality of their service to our nation. Meeting the needs of our customers, both internal and external, is

ARE YOU GOING TO

MAKE A DIFFERENCE Tephanie Hopper

Family and MWR Volunteer Coordinator

“I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. And I will not let what I cannot do interfere with what I can do.” – Edward Everett Hale This quote is a true embodiment of what Make a Difference Day is all about. All it takes is one person who is passionate about making the community better to ignite the fire in others to make a difference. For more than two decades, individuals have been inspiring others to partake in Make A Difference Day, the Nation’s largest day of community service in the United States. Fort Bliss, page 42

along with millions of others, will also take part in this day of community service. Make A Difference Day is a time of neighbors helping neighbors but it doesn’t stop there. It’s a time where you can paint a room for the local homeless shelter, collect food for the food bank or help plant a garden at the local community center. It’s a time for individuals and groups to get together and show that they care. On this day we will have numerous opportunities to serve our community. If you’re in doubt that YOU can make a difference, here are some reasons why we need you to get involved.

OCT | NOV | DEC

There are many underprivileged in our community struggling and in need of support. Nonprofit and government agencies have seen their budgets slashed due to funding cuts. Volunteers help to extend their resources. Organizations flourish when they have active and involved volunteers, and you could be the positive difference for a great cause. All you need is a day to give back to the community. Sign up soon and Make A Difference. The Fort Bliss Army Volunteer Corps office has contacted nonprofit and government agencies in the community to find out what their most pressing needs are. The projects vary but all

the key to our success. In keeping with the promises made through the FMWR Customer Covenant, our customers will: • Always be respected and treated as individuals who are valued. • Receive a prompt and friendly greeting in a professional and courteous manner • Experience aesthetically pleasing facilities • Receive timely, accurate and helpful information • Be offered high quality products and services • Have an opportunity to provide feedback. “Service, in short, is not what you do, but who you are. It is a way of living that you need to bring to everything you do, if you are to bring it to your customer interactions.” – Betsy Sanders. represent a need that can be filled by YOU. If you would like more information, about how your unit or organization can participate in the service projects, call the Fort Bliss Army Volunteer Corps at 915569-4ACS ext. 7 or email fortblissvolunteer@yahoo. com. In addition to the Make A Difference Day community service project event, the Fort Bliss Army Volunteer Corps will host a Make A Difference Volunteer Fair. It will take place prior to the service day Thursday, Oct. 20 at ACS, located at Bldg. 2494 Ricker Road on West Fort Bliss. The volunteer fair will celebrate the volunteering efforts of our community and provide an opportunity for nonprofits to market their organizations and recruit new volunteers and promote volunteerism. Do not let these opportunities, to make our community better, pass you by. Be the ONE to make a difference! facebook.com/blissmwr

MWR CONTINUED STORIES

WINGS

red hot sauce, heated in pan. To the sauce add salt and pepper, cook at medium heat for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to slight cool for 15 minutes. Here’s the tricky part: Add 1 half stick (as a whole) of salted butter, preferably, to every cup of Tabasco sauce, stir, allowing the butter to melt into the sauce SLOWLY. This is the key to a good buffalo sauce. The butter melting slow –allows the sauce to cool — keeps the oil and dairy together and this creates a creamy sauce, instead of an oily mess you sometimes get at wing houses. When you mix this sauce with the wings, they should be warm and not hot.

Again the sauce will become oily if applied to wings that are too hot. Raspberry chipotle: Raspberry jam/jelly, chipotle peppers (Ratio: 1 cup raspberry, ¼ cup chipotle). Chipotle peppers come in a can, with a heavy sauce — this sauce is what you want. For extra heat, and so that you don’t have to buy too many cans, the peppers themselves can run through a blender (pulverized) and used with raspberry. Season to taste with salt, and granulated garlic. If needed, you can add water, beer or wine to the sauce to thin out, if you want the sauce thinner. This sauce should be add to the wings while they are still hot.

CENTENNIAL

MILITARY FAMILY

fresh everyday. “It’s like an instant gratification, it’s an art form, but it’s like a dynamic art, you create something, it’s there for a little while and then it’s gone forever,” said Damien Donaldson, executive chef for Family and MWR. “Sometimes the challenge is creating that same piece of art, over and over and over, exactly the same.” “The Centennial is my second Family, I started here and to be the one to help continue to lead, train and see people move up in their career like I did, it’s very rewarding,” said Tabitha. “I can’t imagine doing anything else. Even on the most challenging days it’s the most rewarding.” In the Bliss NOW Winter issue we will be going “Behind the Scenes” of Family and MWR with Mickelsen Community Library.

various state parks and historical sites that we probably would not have had the chance to go to otherwise. Moving or travelling to these places our Family has met great friends. As a military Family we have to be each other’s rocks. If our Family is strong then our Soldier is strong. And most importantly, when we asked our daughter what Soldiers do; she said, “They help keep us safe.”

nights because your spouse is away whether deployed, TDY or in the field; whatever the case may be. It means sometimes being a “single parent” even though technically you aren’t but seems like it due to their hectic schedule. It means calming down once you hear their voice, even though they are on the other side of the world. Being a Military Family means having an enormous sense of Pride each time you hear the Star Spangled Banner or when a child sees them in uniform and gets so excited to shake their hand and calls them a Hero. It means tears of joy and at times tears of sadness and sometimes anger and confusion. Being a Military Family means many things – too many to name, but to my Family and me, being a Military Family means as long as we are all under one roof we are HAPPY!

Continued from page 25

Seasonings

Standard wing seasoning: Salt, pepper and granulated garlic. Asian seasoning: Salt, pepper, granulated garlic, cumin, oregano and powdered curry Jerk: Salt, pepper, granulated garlic, cumin, oregano, chili pepper, clove, nutmeg and brown sugar. When tasting you should taste the sweetness immediately, with the heat sneaking in after.

Flavorings

Standard buffalo sauce: Your favorite

Continued from page 27

Continued from page 24

Martinez Family

Being a Military Family means getting to live in different places, experiencing different cultures and eating different foods. It means leaving your normal HOT weather to the dreaded COLD weather or vice versa. It means making new friends that turn into Family but then having to say “See ya later,” Taylor Family when it’s time to PCS. It means havBeing a military Family means to set an ing to leave your beloved Family back example for others, be respectful, and be home and eagerly making plans for proud of our military men and women! visiting. Sometimes it means sleepless

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OUR UNIQUE BAR/SHOP FEATURES A WELL-STOCKED WALK-IN HUMIDOR, CHOICE MEN’S GIFTS INCLUDING GROOMING SUPPLIES, JEWELRY, CIGAR ACCESSORIES, GEAR – AND BEER!

(915) 298-1011 FREEDOM CROSSING

www.bliss.armymwr.com

B L I S S C I G A R S.COM 1618 PLEASONTON ROAD, K106, FORT BLISS, TX 79906 OCT | NOV | DEC

page 43

MWR ARMY COMMUNITY SERVICE

COMMUNITY RESOURCES Fort Bliss Army Community Service, 2494 Ricker Road, leads the Army in providing many quality services to assist Soldiers and their Families. By developing innovative programs and continually checking the well-being of our Soldiers, ACS sets the standard in assisting Families in periods of crisis and providing valuable information. Several Family support programs are offered — Family Advocacy, Financial Readiness, Army Volunteer Corps, Mobilization and Deployment, Relocation Readiness, Army Family Team Building, and Information, Referral and Outreach with Relocation Services, the Lending Closet, and Relocation Counseling. Soldiers can take care of their needs quickly.

ARMY VOLUNTEER CORPS

2494 RICKER ROAD, 915-569-4ACS The Fort Bliss Army Volunteer Corps (AVC) supports the Army’s mission by promoting and strengthening volunteerism by uniting volunteer efforts, supporting professional management, enhancing volunteer career mobility, and establishing volunteer partnerships to support individual personal growth and life-long volunteer commitment. The Fort Bliss AVC office is the center for volunteer recruitment, referral, recognition, and professional development for volunteers and volunteer leaders. Volunteers can be placed in a wide variety of positions throughout the installation and within the El Paso community. Through volunteer service, volunteers can learn or improve skills and gain work experience that can increase self-confidence and improve marketability for paid positions.

COMMUNICATION STYLE ASSESSMENT

AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST The Communication Style Assessment is designed to identify an individual’s communication style and discover how that style affects their communication. The attendees of this session will be provided the tools to speed read another person’s communication style and understand how to flex a style for effective communication with others.

ARMY FAMILY TEAM BUILDING

FRC, 250 CLUB ROAD, 915-569-5500 Army Family Team Building (AFTB) is an educational program that provides training preparing everyone in America’s Army to function at the highest level, given any situation. The training improves personal Every minute and every hour that someone resilience and Family preparedness, which volunteers, they contribute to improving the quality enhances overall Army readiness. of life of our community; therefore volunteers Army Family Team Building’s free training is for change the world. Join the movement to make our (and taught by) Soldiers and Family members. installation, our city, our nation a better place for all Classes are not limited to military ID card holders: – Change the World, Volunteer! boyfriends, girlfriends and fiancées are welcome! email: fortblissvolunteer@yahoo.com Learn about the Army way of life, how to manage it website: bliss.armymwr.com, search: AVC better, and leadership skills as well. Be sure to ask us how Soldiers can use their certificates of training toward promotion points. INSTALLATION VOLUNTEER

ORIENTATION www.bliss.armymwr.com, search: aftb NOV 17: 10AM-12PM & 6-7:30PM DEC 8: 10AM-12PM & 6-7:30PM 1SGT/COMMANDER SPOUSE SEMINAR Interested in volunteering within the Fort Bliss or NOV 8 & 9: 9AM-2:30PM El Paso Community? The first place to start is the Installation Volunteer Orientation. The Installation The First Sergeant/Company Commander Spouse Volunteer Orientation provides information about Seminar is designed to help increase a Spouse’s available volunteer opportunities within the Fort understanding of the rewards and challenges of Bliss and El Paso area. Community, expectations company-level leadership. Learn techniques to and requirements of volunteering within our com- help prepare to become a valuable member of the command spouse team. Family members of all munity and information on volunteer awards. ranks are welcome. VOLUNTEER INFORMATION MANAGEMENT SYSTEM TRAINING OCT 17: 1:30-3PM NOV 7 & 21: 1:30-3PM DEC 5: 1:30-3PM

The Fort Bliss AVC exclusively tracks volunteer hours by using the Volunteer Management Information System (VMIS) on the web at Army OneSource. The system was developed to give the Army a real-time snapshot of volunteer activities at any given time and any given installation. VMIS provides all of the tools needed to track AVC volunteer hours, manage and track volunteers, post open positions, print reports, and much more. VMIS is hands-on training or you can take it online at www. myarmyonesource.com/.

VOLUNTEER AWARD WRITING WORKSHOP

DEC 14: 9AM-11AM This workshop is a great opportunity for volunteer managers to learn about the many award opportunities for their volunteers, and how to write award-winning nominations.

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OCT | NOV | DEC

MILITARY KNOWLEDGE

OCT 18 &19: 9AM-2:30PM EACH DAY NOV 29-DEC 1: 5:30-8:30PM EACH NIGHT DEC 13-14: 9AM-2:30PM EACH DAY This course is targeted toward those interested in updating basic military knowledge or those new to the military life: learn about resources, customs, benefits and more!

PERSONAL GROWTH & RESILIENCY

OCT 24-27: 5:30-8:30PM EACH NIGHT DEC 6-8: 9AM-2:30PM EACH DAY Course enhances personal development and teaches how to cope with challenging situations: learn effective conflict management, techniques to overcome stress and improve your personal relationships.

MOBILIZATION & DEPLOYMENT

FRC, 250 CLUB ROAD, 915-569-5500 The Mobilization and Deployment Program provides active duty, reserve units and guard units with pre and post deployment/mobilization briefings, Family Readiness Group assistance, information and referral services, resource materials, and Operation R.E.A.D.Y. (Resources for Education About Deployment and You) training. Training modules provide practical instruction pertaining to ongoing readiness. Topics include: Understanding and Planning for Military Separation and Pre-deployment Ongoing Readiness, Coping with Separation, and Financial Planning. The materials are designed to support unit commanders in preparing service members, Civilian employees, and their Families for military operations.

RESILIENCE TRAINING

Do you bounce back or do you crack? Learn to bounce back when the stressors of everyday life start getting you down by attending the ACS Resilience Training. The training will enhance your effectiveness and well-being by teaching you the skills to build mental toughness, learn what your character strengths are, build strong relationships, and lastly, how to hunt the good stuff, focusing on the positive rather than the negative.

CARE TEAM TRAINING OCT 5: 9AM-12PM NOV 9: 9AM-12PM DEC 7: 9AM-12PM The purpose of the Care Team is to offer shortterm care and support to Families of deceased and seriously wounded Soldiers until the Family’s own support structure is in place. Care Teams are not mandatory, but are an additional way battalions can provide valuable support to Families.

PREPARING FOR DEPLOYMENT

AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST Deployments can increase the stress on a Family and change the roles of Family members. This class will focus on what Family members can do to decrease stress and emotional disturbances during this time. It will also offer tips and techniques to Family members to help cope with the emotional stress during this transition.

REAR DETACHMENT TRAINING MONTHLY

Rear Detachment Command (RDC) Training is offered monthly during the Commanders/1SG Course given by Garrison Command Directorate of Plans, Training, Mobilization and Security (DPTMS). RDC training focuses on the command responsibilities of the Family readiness program LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT to include Family Readiness Groups, Family NOV 15-17: 9AM-2:30PM EACH DAY Readiness Support Assistants, Family Readiness Course offers training to enhance professional Liaisons, staff functions, community resources, and growth and leadership development opportunities. Casualty Response Teams. DPTMS Training Section Helpful to those who may assume advisory and publishes the schedule for the Commander/1SG mentoring roles within the unit and community. Course. Phone: 915-744-2767

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MWR ARMY COMMUNITY SERVICE

FREE CHILD CARE IS AVAILABLE FOR DAYTIME CLASSES. CHILD MUST BE REGISTERED WITH CYSS. CALL MAIN CDC FOR RESERVATIONS AT 915-568-5689.

FRG LEADER TRAINING OCT 4-5: 9AM-2:30PM NOV 2-3: 5:30-8:30PM The Family Readiness Group (FRG) Course is provided by the Army Community Service, Mobilization and Deployment Program. The training is available for all FRG members and is offered once a month. The following classes are required to receive a FRG Leader Certificate: Creating and Maintaining a FRG, Leadership for FRGs, Building Your FRG Volunteers, Making Contact (Phone tree Point of Contact), Newsletter for FRGs, Money Matters, Building Your FRG – Getting Started, Bringing it all Together. www.bliss.armymwr.com, search: FRG

KEY CALLER TRAINING OCT 18: NOV 8:

5:30-7:30PM 9-10:30AM

Key callers are a vital part of the FRG leadership team and perform an essential FRG mission activity. This training provides the information that is most critical to understanding and performing the key caller role.

TREASURER TRAINING OCT 20: NOV 9:

5:30-6:30PM 9-10AM

FRG Fund Custodians and alternates will identify resources needed to operate a FRG by learning about various forms of funding available, setting up a bank account, the role and responsibilities of a FRG Fund Custodian, fundraising, donations and solicitation.

HOMECOMINGS & REUNIONS

AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST Homecoming can be as emotional and stressful as deployment. The Family can experience the same emotional stress and strain as during deployment. This class will focus on tips and techniques to help the Family prepare for their loved one’s return. We will provide information on how to make the transition during the Soldier’s homecoming.

COMMUNITY RESOURCES NOV 8:

9:30AM

This is an opportunity for Soldiers, spouses, veterans, and retirees to learn about the community resources that Fort Bliss, El Paso County, State of Texas, and national organizations provide. This briefing will provide attendees with a wealth of knowledge on these agencies and the services they provide to the community.

www.bliss.armymwr.com www.bliss.armymwr.com

PERSONAL RESOURCES EMPLOYMENT READINESS

2494 RICKER ROAD, 915-569-5838 The military lifestyle presents unique challenges to military spouses who are looking for employment due to frequent relocations. The Employment Readiness Program offers information and referral services and assistance in the areas of employment, training and volunteer opportunities. The services are designed to give you the competitive edge necessary to secure employment. Services include job counseling and training, employment and education information, volunteer opportunities, internet job search and assistance in resume writing and goal setting.

EMPLOYMENT ORIENTATION

JUMPSTART YOUR JOB SEARCH

NOV 22: 9AM-12PM This class will cover common job seeker pitfalls, how to utilize the F.O.C.U.S. method, proven techniques to strategize and evaluate your search plan, practical goal-setting exercises, and advice on how to maximize your time to develop an efficient fullcircle job search strategy. Avoiding the job search blues will be covered.

WRITING A WINNING RESUME

OCT 6 & 20: 9AM-12PM NOV 3 & 17: 9AM-12PM DEC 1 & 15: 9AM-12PM Create an effective resume or transform the one you already have into a powerful tool that will get you interviews.

EVERY WEDNESDAY: 10 AM-11:30AM The Employment Readiness Program has partnered This workshop will lead you through a self-assesswith Workforce Solutions of Upper Rio Grande to ment series so that you gain extensive knowledge deliver weekly orientations to educate spouses on about the product you are marketing,YOU! services available to them and employment opportunities in the local area. Employment Orientation is required before attending all other ERP classes. Registration is required. 2494 RICKER ROAD, 915-569-4ACS The Financial Readiness Program (FRP) offers TEN STEPS TO A FEDERAL JOB counseling and training for Soldiers and their OCT 4: 9AM-12PM Families; FRP works with Army Emergency Relief NOV 8: 9AM-12PM (AER) to ensure emergency assistance is available DEC 6: 9AM-12PM when needed. Applying for federal employment is different than in private industry. This class shows you how to suc- The mission of the FRP is to reduce indebtedness, ceed in the government’s intricate hiring process. minimize the need for emergency financial Both first-time applicants and those already within assistance and prevent financial difficulties. the government system will learn something new We help Soldiers and Army Families live within their means and provide for a brighter financial future. here, as application processes change over time. See www.bliss.armymwr.com, search: FRP or call ACE YOUR NEXT JOB INTERVIEW 915-569-8376 for class times and dates or call for appointments. OCT 18: 9AM-12PM DEC 13: 9AM-12PM This class will cover types of job interviews, prepara- FINANCIAL SERVICES tion for the meeting, and the three parts of an inter- AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST view. Participants will learn how to answer common, The Financial Readiness Program offers counseling behavior-based, difficult, and illegal interview ques- to individuals seeking assistance in a wide variety of tions. Proper follow-up techniques, job fair etiquette, financial situations to include: appropriate attire, and tips on salary negotiation will • Consumer Credit Counseling also be covered. • Personal Financial Coaching • Credit Report Reviewing CAREER EXPLORATION & PLANNING • Consumer Advocate NOV 15: 9AM-12PM • Family Subsistence Supplemental Allowance This class will focus on career planning and goal • Financial Education Classes setting. Through self-assessment techniques and discussion participants will identify values, skills, interests, and personality traits that will assist them CREDIT REPAIR 9:30-11AM in developing a career profile and plan of action. OCT 12: 9:30-11AM A career assessment tools will be introduced as a NOV 9: DEC 14: 9:30-11AM comprehensive resource. This class will explain the different types of accounts NETWORKING FOR JOB SEARCH that exist, the importance of viewing your credit report, knowing your debt to income ratio, how to NOV 29: 9AM-12PM This class will teach the basics for those new to net- improve your credit score and more. working and more sophisticated techniques for more experienced networkers. You will learn to identify DEBT MANAGEMENT and expand your network, types and strategies for OCT 14: 9:30-11AM networking, and techniques to overcome roadblocks NOV 18: 9:30-11AM to networking success. DEC 9: 9:30-11AM Learn how to control your debt and how to improve MOBILIZE YOUR HOME BUSINESS your creditworthiness. You will leave with a strategy on how to turn your financial situation around. OCT 11: 9:30AM-12PM

FINANCIAL READINESS

Learn the facts to making an informed decision on selecting and starting a home business. This class is taught by a representative from the Women’s Business Border Center. OCT | NOV | DEC

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MWR ARMY COMMUNITY SERVICE

PERSONAL RESOURCES PLANNING & BUDGETING

OCT 5: 9:30-11AM NOV 2: 9:30-11AM DEC 7: 9:30-11AM In this class, you will evaluate your current financial situation to help create a budget and a spending plan to reach your goals for the future.

SAVINGS, INVESTING & TSP

OCT 28: 9:30-11AM This class will discuss the different savings and investment opportunities that exist in the market. You will be able to decide on the one best for you, plus the basics of the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).

STRETCHING YOUR DOLLAR

OCT 6: 9:30-11AM NOV 4: 9:30-11AM DEC 2: 9:30-11AM Learn to make your money stretch through the end of the month. This class is presented by Consumer Credit Counseling Services.

BANKING & MONEY MANAGEMENT

OCT 19: 9:30-11AM NOV 16: 9:30-11AM DEC 22: 9:30-11AM Learn the basics of debit management and the principals to reconcile your bank statement so you can stay on top of those purchases made by your debit card.

DINNER ON A DIME

OCT 20: 11AM-1PM NOV 17: 11AM-1PM DEC 15: 11AM-1PM Learn to cook a great dinner for the Family on a budget. Each class provides a recipe for a delicious meal. The meal is prepared during class with a taste Since its inception in 1983, the AFAP remains the only such partnership between a branch of the test at the end. FRC, 250 Club Road United States military and its constituents. Issues can be submitted at the Garrison Army Community ARMY EMERGENCY RELIEF Service office or to a unit Family Programs liaison. MON-FRI: 7:30AM-3:30PM The Army Emergency Relief (AER) provides financial The needs of the Army community remain in the assistance to active and retired Soldiers and their forefront of Army Senior Leadership. AFAP is the primary tool to communicate the important issues dependents when there is a valid need. Loans are facing Soldiers, Army Civilians, Families, Survivors, interest free. Spouses requesting AER assistance and Retirees. must have a current Special Power of Attorney (SPOA), military ID card and documentation to Information provided through the AFAP process gives commanders and leaders insight into current support their request. Under the Commander’s satisfaction detractors, quality of life needs, and Referral Program, the company commander or first expectations of Army constituents. sergeant may approve assistance of up to $1,500 Leadership uses the information to effect changes for active-duty Soldiers. that improve standards of living and support proIf you are not near an Army installation, you can grams. These changes foster a satisfied, informed, go to any service’s relief society or contact the and resilient Army Community. American Red Cross at 1-877-272-7337. AER also provides scholarships for spouses and children of Issues can be submitted at the Army Community active and retired Soldiers, orphans and dependents Services office. of deceased Soldiers. Scholarship applications are 241 Sheridan Road, 915-568-6272 available at www.aerhq.org.

SUPPORT SERVICES

ARMY FAMILY ACTION PLAN

MON-FRI: 8AM-4PM The Army Family Action Plan provides Active and Reserve Component Soldiers, Army Civilians, Family members, Survivors, and Retirees a voice in shaping their standards of living by identifying issues and concerns for Army Senior Leadership resolution. page 46

OCT | NOV | DEC

SOS is a holistic, multi-agency approach to delivering services specifically to surviving Family Members. The friendly staff at SOS is there to assist surviving Family Members with whatever issues they might have. Their services are also offered to Retirees and non-active duty incidents as well. Their mission is...“To embrace and reassure Survivors that they are continually linked to the Army Family through a unified support program that enables them to remain an important part of the Army Family for as long as they desire.” 241 Sheridan Road, 915-568-5970

VICTIM ADVOCACY

MON-FRI: 8AM-4PM Victim advocates provide clear, accurate information on the available avenues for reporting domestic abuse, child abuse, and sexual assault. Victim advocates provide essential support, liaison services and care to the victim.

Responsibilities include providing crisis intervention, referral and ongoing non-clinical support, including information on available options and reSURVIVOR OUTREACH SERVICES sources to assist the victim in making informed deMON-FRI: 8AM-4PM Losing a loved one is an especially difficult time for cisions about the case. those left behind. In addition to the grief the Family Victim advocate services will continue until the vicwill suffer, they will also be faced with several issues tim states support is no longer needed. To speak with a Victim Advocate, call the Family Advocacy and questions about a life built around the Army. Some of these will be addressed immediately by Program during normal business hours or the Dothe Casualty Assistance Officer (CAO), but some mestic Violence Hotline after hours or on weekends. will not surface for many months or years – long You are not alone. after the Casualty Assistance process has ended. 2494 Ricker Road, 915-568-9129 Hotline: 915-269-2013 Survivor Outreach Services (SOS) can help.

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FAMILY ADVOCACY PROGRAM

It is designed to assist active-duty personnel during the reassignment process by taking into account Exceptional Family Members (EFM) with special physical, emotional, developmental or intellectual needs. In a dual military Family, both Soldiers must be enrolled. The program provides a variety of services to Enrollment is based on the medical and education Soldiers and Families to enhance their relationship requirements of Family members of active duty personnel and must be updated every three years or if skills and improve their quality of life. This mission is accomplished through a variety of the condition(s) changes. groups, seminars, workshops and counselling and 2494 Ricker Road, 915-569-4227 (ext 5) intervention services. Seminars and workshops are available to you, your unit or Family Readiness NEW PARENT SUPPORT PROGRAM Group. MON-FRI: 8AM-4PM Unit commanders are encouraged to contact The Army offers a complete program of parent their Family Advocacy Program Manager/Staff to education and support services of which the New schedule their unit’s mandatory AR 608-18 training Parent Support Program (NPSP) is a part. or seminars that meet their unit’s specific needs. All Army installations provide services that include 2494 Ricker Road, 915-569-5838 health counselling provided by Army Community Nurses (CHN), as well as parent education SOLDIER & FAMILY ASSISTANCE CENTER Health classes and play mornings. These services target MON-FRI: 8AM-4PM Families with children, 0-3 years of age. The Soldier & Family Assistance Center (SFAC) is a place where Warriors in Transition and their Fam- Participation in any of these activities is strictly ily members receive assistance through a number voluntary and there are no time limits imposed on duration of service but Families generally stay of holistic services tailored to their needs. The SFAC’s welcoming atmosphere and friendly involved at this level for 4-6 months. Referrals for staff foster an environment conducive to physi- NPSP services are accepted via self-referral, health cal, spiritual and mental healing. Their mission is professionals, and command. MON-FRI: 8AM-4PM Family Advocacy is dedicated to the prevention, education, prompt reporting, investigation, intervention and treatment of spouse and child abuse.

to provide exceptional support by being courteous, professional and relevant.

The Fort Bliss SFAC is widely recognized as the premier provider of innovative services to WTs and their Families in support of the Warrior Transition Battalion. Their goal is to be available and convenient for WTs and their Families. Services requiring less than a full-time presence are available at the SFAC at designated times. Additional services are provided through priority off-site appointments coordinated by the SFAC staff. 887 Marshall Road, 568-6879

EXCEPTIONAL FAMILY MEMBER PROGRAM

2494 Ricker Road, 915-568-9129

PARENTING/LIFE SKILLS/ SAFETY/EDUCATION

MON-FRI: 8AM-4PM The Army Family Advocacy Program coordinates and provides numerous programs, services and activities that support our Families. Their goal is to develop parenting skills and knowledge, reduce stressors that may increase the risk of child abuse or neglect. And help Families cope with the adjustments, and changes of military life.

NEWCOMERS QUICK REFERENCE PHONE GUIDE

WELCOME CENTER: IN-PROCESSING 915-568-3035

POST INFO

915-568-2121

ON-POST HOUSING 915-564-0795

CYSS PARENT CENTRAL SERVICES 915-568-4374/4646

SCHOOL LIASION OFFICE 915-569-5064

USO

915-569-5644: MAIN POST 915-744-3480: EAST BLISS

MILITARY ONE SOURCE (800) 342-9647

LENDING CLOSET

915-569-4227 (EXT. 0)

FORT BLISS THRIFT SHOP 915-562-5451

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS IHG-ARMY HOTEL 915-565-7777

RV PARK

915-568-4693 OR 568-0106

BOSS

915-744-1525

2494 Ricker Road, 915-568-9129

MON-FRI: 7:30AM-4:30PM The Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) is a mandatory enrollment program that works with other military and Civilian agencies to provide a comprehensive, coordinated, multiagency approach for community support, housing, medical, educational, and personnel services to Families with special needs. The EFMP is a Department of the Army program which functions under the provisions of Army Regulation (AR) 608-75.

www.bliss.armymwr.com

OCT | NOV | DEC

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MWR ARMY COMMUNITY SERVICE

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE Moving is part of life for Soldiers and their Families. The Relocation Readiness Program offers a comprehensive support system to help you and your Family make permanent change of station moves as smoothly as possible. We minimize the stress of relocation by offering resources to simplify the moving process throughout your military career. 2494 Ricker Road, 915-569-4227 (ext 6), fortblissacsrelocation@gmail.com

FORT BLISS ORIENTATION & WELCOME THURSDAYS: 9AM-3PM Get to know us at this interactive orientation and welcome fair. Here you will learn about resources, programs, activities and organizations on Fort Bliss and in the local communities that will help you and your Family enjoy life in the West Texas desert.

WELCOME PACKET & RELOCATION COUNSELING

1735 Marshall Road, Old Ironside Museum Phone: 915-569-4ACS

AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST If you are PCSing to a new installation and want to learn more about your gaining installation, we can provide you with automated welcome packets on any military installation worldwide! If desired, we will also be more than happy to provide you with a one on one relocation counseling.

LENDING CLOSET

HEARTS APART

MON-FRI: 7:30AM-4:30PM The lending closet is stocked with basic household items to use before your household goods arrive or after you have packed out for your new assignment. Items may be borrowed for 30 days. Please provide your ID card and a copy of your PCS orders.

INFORMATION AND REFERRAL MON-FRI: 7:30AM-4:30PM

Information & Referral serves as the central point of distribution for ACS information, flyers, brochures, Fort Bliss’ upcoming events and activities. I & R provides general post information such as telephone numbers, building locations, and not readily identifiable social service organizations. Also available for all DoD ID card holders are computers with internet and printer capabilities, copy machine, send and receive faxes, and DSN public phones.

PEOPLE ENCOURAGING PEOPLE (PEP)

OCT 3-5: 9AM-2PM NOV 7-9: 9AM-2PM Join us for this AMAZING newcomer’s orientation for adult Family members. During a fun-filled three day orientation, you’ll learn about the services available to you at ACS and other community agencies. You will receive a tour of Fort Bliss and the surrounding areas. It’s a great way to learn your way around, meet others new to the installation, and become one HOT PEPPER!

Being separated from your spouse is not easy. Join the Fort Bliss Hearts Apart Empowerment Group as a way to connect with other Families and conquer deployment! We provide resources to help cope with the separation and maintain your long distance relationship.

MILITARY SPOUSE ORIENTATION

OCT 19: 9AM-3PM Are you new to Fort Bliss? Maybe you’re new to the Army married life, as well? Spouses learn what Fort Bliss has to offer as you explore this new journey called army life. Take advantage of this excellent opportunity to learn about our installation and the city of El Paso at this great event. Topics include schools, housing, medical, local attractions and more. Registration is required. Don’t miss out on the Military Spouse Orientation! There will be free on-site child care and lunch will be provided. Register online at www.bliss.armymwr. com, search: MSO

FIESTA AND FRIENDS

OCT 11: 11:30AM-1:30PM IMMIGRATION COUNSELING NOV 15: 11:30AM-1:30PM DEC 13: 11:30AM-1:30PM EVERY WED: 8:30AM-3:30PM This is a monthly Relocation Readiness potluck that The El Paso Field Office of the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) maintains an focuses on meet and greet, culture and friendship. information office to assist you with your immigration Each month will be themed for a holiday or season. questions. The USCIS officer will answer questions and provide and review application packets. This service is provided at no cost to all DoD ID card holders.

FORT BLISS BUS TOUR

OCT 7 & 21: 2-3:30PM NOV 4 & 18: 2-3:30PM Entering a new installation can be both exciting and intimidating. Fort Bliss ACS understands what Families experience during this trying time and we are here to help. Learn more about East and West Fort Bliss with our monthly bus tour. Childcare vouchers will be available to those with children registered at the CDC. Call 915-569-4227 for tour registration.

EL PASO BUS TOUR

OCT 29: 10AM-3PM NOV 26: 10AM-3PM Join us for an El Paso/Las Cruces bus tour which will take you beyond the gates of Fort Bliss and highlight the interesting sites of both El Paso & Las Cruces. We’ll show you the location for the Wyler Tramway, Las Cruces Farmers Market, and Old Mesilla town square with stops on the East and Westside! Learn more about our host city on the last Saturday of the month from 1000 to 1600. Space is limited. For more information, call 915-569-4227, ext. 0.

PASSPORT PROCESSING

QUARTERLY Traveling abroad? Need a passport? The Relocation Assistance Program is pleased to host quarterly passport processing dates at Army Community Service courtesy of our local passport office. Please check http://travel.state.gov/passport/ for information on fees and forms.

SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM

EVERYDAY FROM 9-10:30AM Are you about to make a PCS move? If so, then you should request a sponsor with your new duty station. Sponsors serve as your “representative” before you arrive, provide information to you, and show you around upon your arrival.

SPANISH CLASSES CALL TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT Immerse yourself in your new community by learning Spanish. Classes are free and daycare is included for those who are registered with the CDC. Classes begin every quarter beginning Sept 2016. We offer basic and intermediate Spanish. Call ACS for more information at 915-569-4227 Ext. 0.

ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE CALL TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT Do you want to improve your English skills and make new friends? Please call ACS at 915-5694227 Ext. 0 for more information.

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FORT BLISS & FAMILY FRED WILSON RD

SLICER A

MA ST

McNAIR RD

HAAN RD

ARTILLERY RD

SLATER RD

(915) 568-2833

CLUB RD

PERSHING RD

ADAIR RD

14 2 24

30 55

PERSHING GATE

8 SH

ID AN

EL PASO, TEXAS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT MILITARY AREAS R

MILITARY GATES

1 BUILDING LOCATIONS

To I-10

RADFORD AVE

GATEWAY BLVD NORTH

TROWBRIDGE

GATEWAY BLVD SOUTH

LOCATIONS WITH WI-FI

(915) 569-5644 (915) 568-1890 (915) 742-2266 (915) 568-KIDS (915) 568-6272 568-1117 565-4100 744-9311 569-2331 533-1244 568-2121

28 40

(915) 568-4339 (915) 568-9699 (915) 730-9803 (915) 562-7467 (915) 562-5451 (915) 564-0009

RS HIN

(915) 568-6923 (915) 742-3858 (915) 568-3264 (915) 568-5970 (915) 569-5448

SHERIDAN RD

CASSIDY GATE

(915) 742-2121 (915) 569-2331 (915) 742-CARE (915) 742-2483 (915) 564-0795 (915) 568-2898 (915) 565-7777 (915) 568-3035 (915) 568-1241 (915) 568-2892 (915) 569-6446 (915) 566-1133 (915) 568-7141 (915) 564-5275 (915) 568-6156 (915) 568-7318 (915) 568-5412 (915) 568-4518 (915) 568-7393 (915) 568-4374 (915) 562-4036 (915) 568-7506 (915) 568-1537 (915) 568-7431 (915) 568-7187 (915) 568-2178

CUSTER RD

PIKE RD

DONIPHAN RD

DYER ST

SHERIDAN GATE

HUMPHREY RD

RUSSELL ST RUSSELL ST

PIA

OCT | NOV | DEC

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WORK AVE

HAYES ST

EMERGENCY NUMBERS Fire Emergencies Housing Areas Military Police Ambulance Poison Information Information Operator

VICTORY A

A PH RD

PIEDRAS ST

(915) 568-3301 (915) 568-4849 (915) 562-8461 (915) 569-4227 (915) 568-7280 (915) 568-6272 (915) 630-8669 (915) 568-1519 (915) 568-5689 (915) 569-7199 (915) 568-6287 (915) 568-4022 (915) 568-5380 (915) 568-3500 (915) 569-5500 (915) 568-5563 PX: (915) 562-7200

ELM ST

Telephone

500B Adjutant General 45 American Red Cross 7060 Armed Services YMCA 2494 Army Community Service Automotive Skills Center/Auto Crafts 820 Bowling Center/Desert Strike Lanes 2949 197 Car Wash 448 Chaplain 1730 Child Development Center, Main PIERCE AVE Child Development Center, Replica 5036 504B Civilian Personnel Office 1717 Commissary 250 Community Pool 11 Family and MWR Headquarters 250 Family Resilience Center 820 Framing Bliss Freedom Crossing Post Exchange, Grand Theatre Third-party Shops 1741 18 Garrison Command BUREN AVE 7777 19VAN Hospital: WBAMC 7777 Information 7777 Ambulance MONROE AVE 7777 Appointments 7777 Red Cross 1991 20 Housing: On-Post/Balfour Beatty 1741 21 Housing: Off-Post 1744 22McKINLEY IHG Army AVE Hotels at Fort Bliss 505 23 In-Processing/Welcome Center 8 24 Inspector General 2996 25 Ironworks Gym West 1611 26 LTS Kiosk at Freedom Crossing 1991 27 Kelly Park 113 28 Legal Assistance 1310 29 Dunkinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Donuts FORT BLVD 2 30 Mickelsen Community Library 2499 31 Milam Fitness Center 1735 32 Old Ironsides Museum 5054 33 Old Fort Bliss Replica 2968 34 Omar Bradley Softball Complex 1743 35 Parent Central/CYSS Registration 1733 36 Post Office 37 POV Car Resale Lot 1334 38 Recycling Center 5035 39 Replica Aquatic Center 131 40 SKIESUnlimited Gymnastic Center 2010 41 School-Age Center, Bliss 5037 42 Replica Youth Center 43 Soldier and Family Assistance Center 887 2496 44 Soldier and Family Medical Clinic 2930 45 Stout Physical Fitness Center 241 46 Survivor Outreach Services 262 47 Tennis Club & Fitness Zone Transportation 505 48 Inbound ALTURA AVE Transportation 503B 49 Outbound Transportation 1717 50 Trading Post RICHMOND A Little AVE Bit of Bliss Gift Shop Fort Bliss Thrift Shop Junior Enlisted Family Center Indoor Playground 2408 51 USO 503A 52 Vehicle Registration AURORA AVE 6077 53 Veterinary Services 195 54 Youth Sports Plex WHEELING AVE 243 55 Pershing Pub 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17

COPIA ST

PIEDRAS ST

ELM ST

LOUSIANA ALABAMA ST

Bldg.

NG HI RS R PE CI

ALABAMA ST

FORT BLISS LEGEND

Organization

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ALABAMA GATE

No.

N GO LI RD L N E cK O M ANY C

To Ala magor do

ALABA

AND MWR FACILITIES Bridge to Central Fort Bliss

FRED WILSON RD

AVE

CHAFFEE GATE

EARL H. BRUNS RD

35 22

Fort Bliss National Cemetery

32 36 9

PIKE RD

AIRPORT RD

FOUNDERS BLVD

PLEASONTON RD

26 17

Bridge to Central Fort Bliss

HAAN RD

CARRINGTON

CHAFFEE RD

MARSHALL RD

SHANNON VAN VALZAH RD

JEB STUART RD

HINMAN RD

AVE

STENNIS ST

38 45

CASSIDY

31 PLEASONTON RD

ER AM CR

CARTER RD

6 TAYLOR ST

48 23

El Paso International Airport AIRPORT RD

PERSHING RD

SHERIDAN RD

HOOD RD

BOEING DR

JEB STUART SOUTH

IMO ON GER ST

DER GRU ST MA

ST www.bliss.armymwr.com

AIRWAY BLVD

STONEMAN

HUGHEY

BUFFALO SOLDIER GATE

SCALES RD

FORSYTH RD

CHASE RD

PL TR OW

BUFFALO SOLDIER RD

AIRWAY BLVD

HOWZE ST

IR DR

CONVA

DICKMAN RD

ON ONT EAS

ASHBURN ST

MORGAN AVE

DUDLEY ST

42 10

JEB STUART RD

MERRITT RD

1 11 52 49

LEIGH FISHER BLVD

CARTER RD

JEB STUART RD

WILLARD HOLDBROOK RD

CHAFFEE RD

UMNER RD

51 H

BUTTERFIELD TRAIL BLVD

YAQUI WY

NA AVE

MONTA

62 180

ock To Lubb

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CENTRAL FORT BLISS CENTRAL FORT BLISS LEGEND No.

1 2 3 4 5

6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

14 15 16 17

Organization

Aquatics Training Facility Biggs Express Biggs Park Biggs Physical Fitness Center Centennial Club Catering Dining Room/Samuel Adams Pub Metro Bingo Bar Child Development Center, Central Bliss Child Development Center, Milam Community Center Troop Store East Bliss Mini Mall Ironworks Gym East Military Police Station School-Age Center, Milam Soldier Activity Center BOSS Headquarters Cliffhanger Cafe Leisure Travel Services (LTS) Library Outdoor Recreation Unit Funds Soto Physical Fitness Center Wi-Fi in snack bar area only Youth Center, Milam USO/FirstLight Federal Credit Union USO FirstLight Federal Credit Union U.S. Army Sergeants Major Academy AAFES SMA Bookstore Warrior Gym (Quartermaster Road)

Bldg.

Telephone

20733 11284 11388 11251 11199

(915) 741-5901 (915) 562-8442 (915) 744-8087 (915) 744-8730 (915) 744-8427 (915) 744-1711

20707 11896 20752 13471 T20700 20709 11898 20732

20751 10960 20727 11291 21145

(915) 744-8427 (915) 744-3731 (915) 744-7879 (915) 799-3156 (915) 566-5479 (915) 744-8697 (915) 744-9311 (915) 744-2274 (915) 744-1532 (915) 744-1525 (915) 744-1535 (915) 744-1522 (915) 744-1534 (915) 744-1532 (915) 744-5105 (915) 744-5788 (915) 744-5792 (915) 744-5105 (915) 744-5105 (915) 744-2278 (915) 744-3480 (800) 351-1670 (915) 744-8009 (915) 562-5645 (915) 741-5930

WENDOVER

CHANUTES

LUKE

SHORT

SGT E CHURCHILL

SERGEANT MAJOR BLVD

BIGGS

MSG R MILLER

SGT C THOMAS

SGT MARKLE

BARKSDALE

LUKE

MSG R MILLER

SERGEANT MAJOR BLVD

LUKE

AIRPORT ROAD

MSG PENA (BIGGS GATE)

DUNCAN

RANDOLPH

SGT MARKLE

SSG SIMS

SCOTT

BOLLING

CSM E. SLEWITZE

PETERSON

WRIGHT

BIGGS ARMY AIRFIELD

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FOUNDERS

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DR DES NSI

N K TA

W HA

CK BLA

IRO

AD RO

OLD

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KAS

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E ERIN

R PE

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MINUE DRIVE

GENERAL HARMON GATE

RH E

RIV

G ER

AY EW

L EAG

AD RO

VD BL

L PA

G ER

VD BL

AY LE W

EAG

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I FV

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WALTER JONES

GLOBAL REACH GATE

EL PASO, TEXAS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT MILITARY AREAS

El Paso International Airport

RY ER

O GE

MILITARY GATES

1 BUILDING LOCATIONS

O GL

LOCATIONS WITH WI-FI

L BA H AC

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OCT | NOV | DEC

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MWRDIRECTORY

Give Us

A CALL

OR VISIT US O NLINE AT W W W. BLISS.A R M YM W R . CO M

Army Community Service

Food, Leisure & Entertainment

ARMY COMMUNITY SERVICE 2494 Ricker Road 915-569-4227 Army Emergency Relief 915-569-4227, ext. 1 Financial Readiness 915-569-4227, ext. 2 Employment Readiness 915-569-5838 Family Advocacy Program 915-568-9129 Exceptional Family Member Program 915-569-4227, ext. 5 Relocation Readiness 915-569-4227, ext. 6 Army Volunteer Corps. 915-569-4227, ext. 7 Army Family Action Plan 915-569-2672 FAMILY RESILIENCE CENTER 250 Club Road Army Family Team Building Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training Master Resilience Training Mobilization Deployment Support Stability Operations 915-569-5500 SOLDIER & FAMILY ASSISTANCE CENTER 887 Marshall Road 915-568-6879 SURVIVOR OUTREACH SVCS 241 Sheridan Road 915-568-5970

DESERT STRIKE LANES 2949 Carter Road 915-568-6272 Strike Zone Lounge 915-568-6272 LEISURE TRAVEL SERVICES (LTS) Freedom Crossing LTS 915-569-6446 Soldier Activity Center LTS 915-744-1522

OLD FORT BLISS REPLICA 5054 Pershing Road 915-588-8482 PERSHING PUB, PACE HALL 243 Club Road 915-781-6809 ROD & GUN CLUB 3730 Roy Johnson Lane 915-568-2983 The Bulls-eye Bar & Grill 915-568-2983 RV PARK 4130 Ellerthorpe Road 915-568-0106

BIGGS PARK 11388 Sgt. Major Blvd. 915-744-8984

SPECIAL EVENTS 11 Pershing Road 915-588-8247

CENTENNIAL BANQUET & CONFERENCE CENTER 11199 Sgt. E. Churchill Street 915-744-1171 BINGO 915-744-8427 Catering 915-744-9330 Samuel Adams Pub 915-744-8427

UNDERWOOD GOLF COMPLEX 3200 Coe Avenue 915-568-1059 The Golden Tee Restaurant 915-568-1116

OCT | NOV | DEC

SCHOOL LIAISON OFFICE 505B Pershing Road, Room 135 915-569-5064

PHYSICAL FITNESS CENTERS Biggs, 11251 Biggs Street 915-744-8730 Ironworks Central, T20700 Anzio Way 915-744-5201 Ironworks West, 2996 Cassidy Road 915-568-2892 Logan Heights, 4797 Ellerthorpe Road 915-568-5198 Milam, 2499 Cassidy Road 915-568-7318 Soto, 20751 Constitution Avenue 915-744-5788 Stout, 2930 Cassidy Road 915-568-3264 Tennis Club/Fitness Zone, 262 Club Road 915-569-5448 Warrior Gym, 21145 Quartermaster Road 915-741-5930

SCHOOL AGE CENTERS Bliss, 2012 Sheridan Road 915-568-2178 Logan, 3505 Ellerthorpe Road 915-569-5779 Milam, 11898 Haan Road 915-744-2274

AUTO CRAFTS 820 Marshall Road 915-568-7280

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INTRAMURAL SPORTS Soto PFC, 20751 Constitution Avenue 915-744-5785

CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTERS East Bliss, 20707 Kasserine Way 915-744-2731 Logan, 3500 Story Street 915-568-3989 Main, 1730 Haan Road 915-568-5689 Milam, 11896 Haan Road 915-744-7877 Replica, 5036 Sheridan Road 915-569-7196

LIBRARY Mickelsen, 2E Sheridan Road 915-568-1902 SAC, 20732 Constitution Avenue 915-744-1534

Sports, Fitness & Aquatics

PARENT CENTRAL SERVICES 1743 Victory Avenue 915-568-4374

FAMILY CHILD CARE 5036 Sheridan Road - Inside Replica CDC 915-568-4198

SOLDIER ACTIVITY CTR (SAC) 20732 Constitution Avenue 915-744-1522 Outdoor Recreation & Equipment Rental 915-744-1532 Better Opportunites for Single Soldiers 915-526-4264

Food, Leisure & Entertainment

Child, Youth & School Services

SKIESUnlimited 3508 Ellerthorpe Road 915-568-8336 Gymnastics Ctr, 131 Doniphan Road 915-568-5544 YOUTH ACTIVITY CENTERS Replica, 5037 Sheridan Road 915-568-5437 Milam, 10960 Haan Road 915-744-2449

AQUATICS TRAINING CENTER 20733 Constitution Avenue 915-741-5901 BIGGS SPLASH PARK* 11388 Sgt. Major Blvd. 915-744-8087 COMMUNITY POOL* 253 Club Road 915-568-4825 REPLICA AQUATIC CENTER* (Closed for renovations) 5035 Dickman Road 915-568-7431 SAC OUTDOOR POOL* 20732 Constitution Avenue 915-744-1532

YOUTH SPORTS PLEX 195 Chaffee Road 915-568-2617/2475 YOUTH EDUCATION SUPPORT SERVICES 505B Pershing Road 915-568-2784

*Indicates a facility is seasonal

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PRESORTED STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID EL PASO, TX PERMIT #296

MWR Marketing Bldg 12, Pershing Rd. Fort Bliss, TX 79916

PAYMENTS AS LOW AS $199/down and $199/month NO HIDDEN FEES!

Free rides to and from Ft. Bliss 1-10 & Redd Rd

1-10 & Lee Trevino call us (915) 845-8001

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OCT | NOV | DEC

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