NOTE Director’s
Fort Bliss Family and Friends, Happy New Year! I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season. As we kick off 2025, I want to wish you all the best in this new year.
Many people start the year with resolutions focused on better health, financial goals, and personal growth. I encourage you to take full advantage of our fitness facilities and get connected. Set a schedule that works for you, and strive to improve just a little each day. Visit our incredible Financial Readiness Team at
Army Community Services (ACS) to set realistic financial goals or create a solid budget. Whatever your ambitions are this year, please keep our MWR programs at the forefront of your plans. We offer a little bit of everything to help you get on the right track!
I look forward to seeing you at our events in 2025. Wishing you and your family all the best.
Be Blessed, MR.
MEDINA
915-568-3500
Roberto.j.medina.naf@army.mil
Tennis Club and Fitness Zone is gearing up for the year! Be sure to come out and join leagues of any age and level, learn how to play and participate in scrambles! scan qr code to learn more.
MWR
one world one voice one magazine one great staff
Marketing Manager
Marlo Brestar
Editor/Writer
Natalie Hinojos-Tomeny
Marketing Assistants
Bethany Lewis
Edward Arriola
Graphic Designer
Raymond Sanchez
Sponsorship & Advertising Executive
Coral Musy
Advertising Sales Associate
Brandy Creason
Administrative Support Assistant Martina Grise
BlissNOW is a Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation magazine published bi-monthly for activities on Fort Bliss, Texas. BlissNOW is mailed to all Fort Bliss homes inserted in welcome packets, and distributed to all Family and MWR facilities, along with the Fort Bliss Commissary, Post Exchange at Freedom Crossing, IHG Army Hotels Fort Bliss and the Personnel Processing Center. Circulation: 10,000 bi-monthy The appearance of advertising does not constitute an endorsement by the U.S. Army, Department of Defense or federal government. The information in this issue is current at the time of publication; activities and events are subject to change without notice. Downloading of any social media apps is on a voluntary basis. DFMWR is not responsible for any negative consequences resulting in its use. For more information, call the individual facilities. Family and MWR Marketing is located in Building 12 Pershing Road Fort Bliss, TX 79916 and may be reached at 915-568-6741.
ABOUT THE COVER:
Fort Bliss MWR’s Survivor Outreach Services and Sports Programs have teamed up to host a special event to honor our Fallen Soldiers. Pictured is a moment from last year's event, a powerful display of remembrance and unity. To learn more about Run for the Fallen, SEE PAGE 26.
Get your free copy of blissNOW magazine mailed directly to you. Email your name and address to:
blissnowmagazine@gmail.com
Photo by Fort Bliss MWR Marketing
HALF MARATHON
JANUARY 25
7-11am • SOTO PFC
Info: 915-744-5785
Children 16-17 must have a waiver signed by their parents. Children 10-15 can participate with a parent present at the event and a signed waiver. Children 9 and younger can participate with a participating parent. No pets allowed.
Entry Fee: $10 • Shirts: $10 - sold separately online only until Jan. 10. Late registrations are not guaranteed a shirt. No refunds. Registration is required. Register online at active.com until January 20.
Late Registration/Packet Pick-Up at Soto PFC: Jan. 24 • 4:30-6:30pm Jan. 25 • 5:30am-6:30am
SPIN INTO THE NEW YEAR
Kick off the New Year with a high-energy 90-minute indoor cycling endurance ride on SATURDAY, JAN. 4, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Soto PFC. The cost is $7 per person, and the event is open to all fitness levels. There will be door prizes and refreshments. Registration is required, visit Soto PFC to sign up or call 915-744-5790 for more details.
BIKES & BREWS
Join Outdoor Recreation SATURDAY, JAN. 11, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Chuck Heinrich Park. Enjoy mountain biking on trails for all skill levels, followed by a stop at a local brewery. The event costs $35, which covers transportation and equipment. It’s open to ages 21 and older, and space is limited. Registration is required—sign up at the Soldier Activity Center or call 915-744-1532 for more information.
COMMANDER’S CUP BASKETBALL
The Commander’s Cup Basketball 2025 runs from MONDAY, JAN. 13 to THURSDAY, MAR. 13, with games held Monday through Thursday, 6 p.m. at Soto PFC. It’s open to Active-Duty personnel, with Company/Battery/ Troop level teams. A coaches meeting will be held on Jan. 7, 6 p.m. at the Soldier Activity Center. Registration is required and free; sign up at the MWR Sports office on the second floor of Soto PFC or call 915-744-5793 for more details.
** Events subject to change without notice. Info: bliss.armymwr.com or facebook.com/blissmwr**
BABY BOOTCAMP
Join Army Community Service (ACS) for Baby Bootcamp on WEDNESDAY, JAN. 15 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 2494 Ricker Road. This one-day workshop offers expecting parents an overview of what to expect during the first six weeks of their baby’s life. It is open to DoD ID cardholders only. Registration is required and can be completed online at bliss.armymwr.com. For more information, call 915-568-9129.
BOSS SNOW TUBING
Hit the slopes with BOSS in Cloudcroft on SATURDAY, JAN. 18 for a thrilling day of snow tubing! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-timer, it‘s going to be a blast! Join us from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for a day of fun, laughter, and unforgettable memories. The cost is $30 per person, but spots are filling up fast—sign up now! For more details, text 915-892-5195. Don’t miss out on the adventure!
TRAP SHOOT OUT
Kick off 2025 with the first trap match of the year on SATURDAY, JAN. 25, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event will feature three rounds of trap and one round of handicap shooting. Prizes will be awarded to the top three finishers in both youth (ages 6-17) and adult (18+) categories. Rentals are available. Registration opens at 8 a.m., with a safety briefing at 9 a.m., and the match begins at 9:30 a.m. The cost is $35 per person. For more information, call 915-568-5026. Registration is available upon arrival.
FORT BLISS, TEXAS
5K
February 22 • 8:30AM
Field of Honor • Free
Info: 915-744-5785
Honor our Fallen Service Members in the annual Run for the Fallen 5K/1 mile walk.
Registration is required. Register online at active.com until Feb. 17. Shirts: $10sold separately, online until Feb. 5. Commemorative pins awarded to all registered participants.
Late Registration/Packet-Pickup:
*Chance to purchase a shirt is not guaranteed. Feb. 21 • 4:30-6:30PM at Freedom Crossing Feb. 22 • 7:30-8:30AM at Field of Honor
/fortblisssfa
KIDS DAY
Join Fort Bliss Outdoor Recreation for Kids Day! Enjoy climbing the rock wall or challenge friends and family in a laser tag showdown, SATURDAY, FEB. 1 from 12 to 6 p.m. Open to ages 5 and up, with parents required to attend. Cost is $10 for one activity or $15 for both, including equipment. Don’t miss out on the fun! For more information, call 915-744-1532.
ENHANCE THE ROMANCE
Treat someone special to a deep tissue massage or a Couples Massage this Valentine’s Day with Fort Bliss Massage Therapy! Available by appointment only from FRIDAY, FEB. 7 to 14, with limited availability. Prices are $65 for a 60-minute individual massage or $130 for couples; $90 for a 90-minute individual massage or $180 for couples. Book your appointment now at Soto PFC! For more details, call 915-744-5790.
MUSCLES FEAST
Get ready to showcase your strength at the Strength Competition on SATURDAY, FEB. 8, from 8:30 a.m. to 1p.m. Whether you’re a seasoned lifter or just starting out, this event is open to all. Compete in four exciting challenges: Heaviest Bench Press, Heaviest Barbell Squat, Heaviest Deadlift, and Sandbag Over Yoke. Each competitor gets three attempts per event, with results scored using the Wilks method for fairness. Open to participants aged 18 and older, with male and female weight categories. The cost is $10. Registration is required, sign up at Soto PFC! For more details, call 915-744-590.
WINE TOUR
Kick back for the day and let Outdoor Recreation do the work! SATURDAY, FEB. 15 from 11:15 a.m. to 6 p.m. Outdoor Recreation staff will provide transportation as they visit four local wineries near Las Cruces. The cost is $40 per person. This tour is open to ages, 21 and older, space is limited. To reserve your spot, call 915-744-1532.
SPOUSES WELCOME
Military spouses—don’t miss the chance to discover all the important details about life at Fort Bliss and El Paso! On TUESDAY, FEB. 18 at 9 a.m., head to the Family Resilience Center (FRC) at 250 Club Road for a comprehensive overview. Topics covered will include employment, medical services, housing, Child & Youth Services, the School Liaison Office, Army Community Service, Family Readiness Groups, plus a windshield tour of Fort Bliss and a detailed look at El Paso. Registration is available online at bliss.armymwr.com, or call 915-5695864 for more details.
ROCK CLIMBING
Get ready for an adventure on SATURDAY, FEB. 22 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with Outdoor Recreation at Rough & Ready Hills! Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned climber, guides will set up routes of varying difficulty for everyone to enjoy. No climbing experience is needed—just bring your sense of adventure! Space is limited, and the event is open to those ages 18 and older. The cost is $35 per person, which covers equipment, transportation, and park fees. Registration is required, sign up today at the Soldier Activity Center! For more information, call 915-1532.
** Events subject to change without notice. Info: bliss.armymwr.com or facebook.com/blissmwr**
Fort Bliss MWR is proud to continue offering outstanding events and programs for our Soldiers and their Families. Let’s take a moment to reflect on some of the incredible experiences from 2024 and discover what’s in store for the year ahead!
JOIN THE ACTION
OPEN VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE
BY JADE SALAS
FORT BLISS MWR SPORTS, FITNESS & AQUATICS (SFA)
Fort Bliss and El Paso community, you’ve asked, and we’ve heard you! Open volleyball is back, and Fort Bliss Sports is hosting the Fort Bliss Open Volleyball League from Feb. 1 through March 22. Games will be held at the Logan Heights Physical Fitness Center (PFC), located at 4797 Ellerthorpe Ave., beginning at 8 a.m. This league is
Players must present an ID prior to their scheduled games; failure to do so will result in ineligibility for the season. Depending on the number of teams registered, the league will consist of four Saturday matches, with the fifth Saturday featuring a single-elimination
Team rosters will be limited to 12 players and one non-playing coach. Rosters must be typed and submitted to the Tournament Director prior to the first scheduled game. Each roster must include a team captain's point of contact (email address/phone number), first and last names of each player, and t-shirt sizes. Players are not permitted to play for multiple teams. Once a player participates for a team, they cannot change teams, which will result in a forfeit for the
The registration fee is $20 for Active Duty, Retirees, Family Members, and DOD/DA Civilians, and $30 for the general public.
Registration fees are per player, with a 10-player minimum per roster. Registration includes an event shirt, and the top two teams will receive individual medals and a team trophy.
All teams must be registered and paid by Jan. 24, a maximum of 10 teams will be
Registration can be completed online at imleagues.com (select Fort Bliss as the organization) or in person at the Sports Office, located at Soto Physical Fitness Center, 20751
For more information, call 915-744-5798.
SUPERIOR LIGH T BEER
SUPPORTING HEROES
BY FORT BLISS MWR SCHOOL LIAISON OFFICE
For Military parents, navigating the challenges of frequent relocations and transitions can be daunting, especially when it comes to ensuring a quality education for children.
One valuable resource that can help ease this transition is being part of a campus with a Purple Star designation. These schools are specially recognized for their commitment to supporting Military Families in multiple ways.
UNDERSTANDING MILITARY TRANSITIONS:
Purple Star designated schools have staff who are specifically trained to understand the unique challenges faced by Military Families.
They recognize that Military children may move frequently and may experience emotional upheaval during transitions. These schools provide support systems and resources tailored to help students adjust, resulting in a smoother, less stressful transition.
STRONG SUPPORT NETWORKS:
Purple Star schools have dedicated staff, such as Military liaisons, who are knowledgeable about the specific educational needs of Military children. They offer guidance and resources for Families, helping them navigate the educational system and access support services. This ensures that children receive the help they need during critical transition periods.
Highlights of Purple Star Designated Campuses
it easier for them to thrive in new environments.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT:
Purple Star schools actively engage with Military Families and the broader community, creating a sense of belonging for students. Events, workshops, and family nights are often organized to strengthen the connection between the school and Military Families, fostering a supportive environment that benefits everyone involved.
AVAILABILITY OF RESOURCES:
Purple Star schools advocate for Military Families and often have access to various resources such as counseling services, tutoring programs, and extracurricular activities. This holistic support helps children excel both academically and socially, providing them with a well-rounded educational experience.
RECOGNITION AND PRIDE:
Purple Star schools not only benefit children but also acknowledge the sacrifices made by Military Families. Being part of a school that prioritizes the unique needs of Military students fosters a sense of pride and community, reinforcing the importance of supporting those who serve.
PRIORITIZING SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL LEARNING:
Purple Star schools emphasize the social and emotional well-being of their students. They implement programs that foster resilience, emotional intelligence, and peer support.
This focus helps Military children develop positive coping strategies and build lasting friendships, making
For Military parents, having children attend a school that understands their unique challenges is crucial. Purple Star designated schools offer a wealth of resources and support geared toward Military Families, helping students thrive both academically and socially. Purple Star schools not only provide a quality education for Military children but also create a positive community environment that values and supports Military Families.
Fort Bliss CYS is ACCREDITED!
Accreditation is essential for military child care programs, ensuring that children receive high-quality, reliable care and early education. Military Families face unique challenges, from frequent relocations to the demands of active duty.
Accredited child care centers provide reassurance by maintaining consistent standards for safety, curriculum quality, and staff training, no matter where they are located.
Military child care centers accredited by respected organizations, such as the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and the Council on Accreditation (COA), demonstrate a commitment to excellence. Accreditation involves rigorous evaluations of each program’s practices, including health protocols, child development activities, out-of-school programs, and caregiver qualifications. These standards help create stable, nurturing environments that support the social, emotional, and
cognitive development of children from Military Families.
For parents, accreditation offers peace of mind. They can rest assured that their children are in a safe, enriching setting, allowing them to focus on their duties with less concern about their children’s care. Accredited programs also provide stability for children who may experience the stresses of military life, including frequent moves or parents’ deployment.
Accreditation is required by regulation and ensures that military child care programs maintain the resources necessary to support high standards, staff training, and educational materials. Overall, accredited child care centers play a crucial role in supporting Military Families, contributing to the well-being of both service members and their children by providing dependable, high-quality care that adapts to their unique needs.
BY FORT BLISS MWR CHILD YOUTH SERVICES (CYS)
All All
BY FORT BLISS MWR YOUTH CENTERS AND ART & HOBBY CENTER
This year, the children and youth of Fort Bliss are invited to participate in the highly anticipated Boys & Girls Club Local Art Show. Whether an aspiring painter, photographer, sculptor, or mixedmedia enthusiast, this is the opportunity to showcase creativity and talent for the community to see.
Hosted by Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA), this annual event is part of a nationwide initiative to encourage young artists across the country. By participating in this local showcase, children not only have the chance to present artistic creations at the community level but may also have the opportunity for their work to be recognized and advanced to the national stage.
The Boys & Girls Club Local Art Show is more than just a competition; it serves as a platform to express creativity, build confidence, and take pride in artistic abilities. Art provides an incredible way for children to tell their stories, share their emotions, and celebrate unique perspectives.
Children of all ages across Fort Bliss are encouraged to participate and experience the joy of having their work displayed in front of a supportive military community. Every piece of artwork entered in the local showcase will be displayed and judged on specific criteria, with the top-scoring works selected to represent Fort Bliss at the BGCA National Art Show. Imagine the excitement of having art seen and appreciated by people from all over the country! This is a unique chance to make a mark and share a creative vision on a national platform.
Participation in the Boys & Girls Club Local Art
Show is not just about winning; it is about celebrating the artistic talents of local youth. It is a chance to meet other young artists, receive feedback, and feel a sense of accomplishment for contributing to a larger, national event. More than anything, it is an opportunity to explore creativity and express oneself through art.
Children of all ages across Fort Bliss are welcome to enter the local show. From paintings and drawings to photography, sculpture, dance, music, and theater, all forms of art are encouraged. The anticipation is high to see what will be created!
Fort Bliss is home to many talented young artists, and this art show provides the perfect platform for them to shine. The community can come together to support and celebrate the artistic achievements of local youth. Encourage young artists to take part in this exciting opportunity. The next generation of creative talent is waiting to be discovered, and it could be someone in the community!
For more information on how to register and submit artwork, contact the Milam Youth Activity Center at 915-744-2449, or the Art and Hobby Center at 915568-5563.
SKIESUNLIMITED EXPANDS ITS PROGRAMS
New Martial Arts instructor joins the team
BY FORT BLISS MWR SKIESUNLIMITED
SKIESUnlimited has a new instructor! Mrs. Rawlene Richards is now a part of the Fort Bliss Instructional Programs. Mrs. Richards is a Martial Arts instructor and is teaching Tae Kwon Do classes at the Youth Sports Building. She is a mother of two and a spouse. With eight years of experience in teaching Martial Arts, she enjoys dancing, singing, and playing brain games. Mrs. Richards' arrival is an exciting addition, and there is anticipation for the growth of this program!
ABOUT THE CLASSES:
There are various forms of Martial Arts, and Mrs. Richards describes Tae Kwon Do as a modern martial art that originated in South Korea. This form of martial arts has been proven to enhance
motor skills, body development, mental awareness, and self-defense.
The program is designed to help children ages 4-18, with a focus on fostering positive character development, instilling discipline, and improving selfconfidence, self-esteem, self-control, self-discipline, and more. Mrs. Richards emphasizes that students will have fun while engaging in physical exercise, learning the fundamentals, sparring, practicing forms, and mastering basic self-defense. In addition to instructional classes, students will also participate in belt testing and graduation ceremonies.
Mrs. Richards’ Little Ninja Program and Beginning classes have already started strong, and SKIESUnlimited has opened an additional class to accommodate the needs of families. As students progress, an intermediate-advanced class will be offered.
SKIESUnlimited is proud and grateful to have such an amazing instructor on the team! Instructors are currently being sought for gymnastics, archery, guitar, and drums. New ideas and activities are welcome from anyone with a skill to share with the Fort Bliss community.
Discover the endless possibilities with SKIESUnlimited!
Scan the QR code for the latest class info!
For details on SKIES programming, please call 915-568-5544.
SKIESUnlimited classes operate on a monthly basis. Re-enrollment and payment are due monthly.
New enrollment begins on the 20th of the previous month and ends on the 7th of the current month. No refunds are issued after the 7th.
All students must be registered with Fort Bliss CYS Parent Central before registering in a SKIES program. To register with Parent Central call 915-568-4646
10th Annual RUN FOR THE FALLEN
BY FORT BLISS MWR ARMY COMMUNITY SERVICE (ACS), SURVIVOR OUTREACH SERVICES (SOS)
Fort Bliss will host the 10th Annual Run for the Fallen 5K Run/1K Walk on Feb. 22. To mark this milestone, registration for the event will be free for all participants, including Fort Bliss, El Paso and Las Cruces community, and the surrounding areas. Online registration (link to follow) is required, and participants will have the option to purchase a t-shirt for $10.
Through Army Community Services (ACS) Survivor Outreach Services (SOS), surviving Families of Fallen service members receive long-term support to help navigate their challenges. SOS works to ensure that these Families know they remain a valued part of the military family, and the Annual Run for the Fallen serves as a demonstration of the Army’s commitment to them.
Participation in this event honors the Fallen Heroes and their families. The event will take place at the Field of Honor/George Ruehland Field (corner of Cassidy Gate and Sheridan Road). Fort Bliss leadership will provide opening remarks at 8:30 a.m., followed by an invocation from the chaplain. Participants will then have the opportunity to experience a poignant moment as SOS family members read the names of the Fallen Heroes, followed by the playing of TAPS. The run will begin at approximately 9 a.m., after the ceremony.
This event serves a two-fold purpose: First, it demonstrates support for the Families of those who have given their lives in service to the nation. Second, every step and breath taken during the event will honor the brave service members who served the nation with honor and dignity.
For more information, contact SOS at 915-568-5970.
COUNTDOWN TO 2025 AER CAMPAIGN
BY RAUL MINJAREZ FORT BLISS MWR ARMY EMERGENCY RELIEF (AER)
Army Emergency Relief (AER) is pleased to announce the upcoming 2025 campaign, which runs from March 1 through May 15. The goal is to raise awareness of AER benefits and provide Soldiers the opportunity to assist their fellow Soldiers.
Over the last several years, AER has made significant changes to meet the needs of today’s Army. New categories of assistance include HVAC repair, essential furniture, essential appliances, and dependent dental care, among others. The latest policy change allows all Soldiers, regardless of rank, direct access to AER assistance, with some exceptions.
In addition to assistance in these categories, AER offers scholarships. The 2024-2025 academic year application cycle runs from Feb. 1 through May 15. Visit www.armyemergencyrelief.org/ scholarships to apply. Spouses without a four-year college degree who are pursuing their first undergraduate degree or first technical certification may receive assistance for up to four academic years of full-time study or eight academic years of part-time study, provided all other requirements are met. Spouses may apply year-round (no deadlines) and must re-apply each year. Children who meet eligibility criteria and are pursuing their first undergraduate degree or first technical certification may receive assistance for up to four academic years of full-time study. Children must also re-apply annually.
Army Emergency Relief is a private non-profit organization dedicated to providing financial assistance to Soldiers—active and retired—and their families. Last year, AER provided the Fort Bliss community with $3,893,788 in assistance to nearly 2,156 Soldiers and families. Additionally, AER awarded $428,300 in scholarships to 130 spouses
and children of Soldiers.
Soldiers needing AER assistance can contact their unit Chain of Command, visit ACS at Bldg. 2494 Ricker Road, call 915-568-4706, or www. armyemergencyrelief.org.
Soldiers wishing to contribute may do so through their Unit AER Project Officer or online at www. armyemergencyrelief.org. Civilians wishing to contribute can write a check or donate online.
For more information, visit https://bliss.armymwr. com/programs/army-emergency-relief-aer. Follow AER on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ FortBlissGarrison.
