Focus Magazine JBLM

FOCUS Joint Base Lewis-McChord Family and MWR fun, food, travel & well-being guide

FEBRUARY 2013 • JBLMmwr.com

DINING DEALS WITH MWR

LAKESIDE DINNER WITH YOUR VALENTINE

BREWFEST MUSEUM

CONNECT WITH MWR ON

FACEBOOK & TWITTER

OF GLASS

MILITARY

APPRECIATION

SPECIAL EVENT

GETTING INVOLVED WITH

CYS SERVICES

your unleash­adrenaline high-adventure opportunities p. 10 + adventure section

JBLMmwr.com

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2

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • February 2013

CONTENTS FOOD & FUN

6–13

FAMILY & THE HOMEFRONT

14–20

ADVENTURES

23–25

FEELIN’ GOOD

26–27

LEARNING & EARNING

28–29

Enjoy Valentine dinner, German buffet, Care Fair, Brewfest, Big Game parties, UFC action, golf, bowling and more!

Register your kids in CYS Services for doorway to friendships, parties, events, outings, fitness, sports, classes and fun!

Get in on fun, action, beauty and excitement when you sign up for outdoor recreation’s winter trips.

Racers get Irish party at St. Patty’s Day Run; dance your way to fitness; join an Army sports team; play in indoor pool.

MWR Marketing

Above: Last year’s Operation Care Fair was full of pampering and rejuvenation. Be sure to attend this year’s free Care Fair at the McChord Club/Community Center Saturday, Feb. 9, from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. It’s located at 700 Barnes Blvd. at McChord Field. For more details, call 253-477-4299.

FROM THE COVER

Get help in financial tight spots; find higher education scholarships; earn your degree faster with CLEP.

by Dustin Linger

Get your adrenaline rush with us!

If you’re used to high excitement and don’t want to give it up, get involved with the Warrior Adventure Quest, high-energy outdoor recreation and intramural sports. Read all about it on pages 10–11 and 23–27.

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Find something new & fun to do with MWR Bored? Don’t be! Tired of the same old song and dance during your time off? Your life shouldn’t resemble “Groundhog Day” — liven it up with something new! With this issue, you’re sure to find something to break out of your routine and make weekends (and any other day of the week) fun again.

Special events & deals: -- Watch the big game or UFC fights (page 9) -- Have fun bowling, skating and golfing (page 13) -- Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a lakeside meal; plus other club restaurant specials, page 6.

-- It’s all about you at Operation Care Fair, a pampering and wellness event Saturday, Feb. 9. Details are on page 12.

Plus, adrenaline-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts can learn about highadventure options with the Northwest Adventure Center on page 10 and see this month’s outdoor trip schedule on page 23.

Young artists will be excited to learn about the poster contest in preparation for Month of the Military Child; see page 17 for details.

After you’ve attended one of our events or visited any of our facilities, take a few minutes to share your thoughts with me at http://ice.disa.mil.

William E. Harvey Director, Family & MWR at JBLM

FOCUS JBLM

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Family & MWR Director, Family & MWR

William E. Harvey

Creative director Toby Bartley Promotions director

Kelly Wetzel

Editor & graphic designer Writer/graphic designer

Kimberly Rowe Patti Jeffrey

Contributors Cindy Arnold, Rochelle Hicklin and Donna Lay Contributing photographers Ursula Buford, Ken Dietiker, Scott Hansen, Patti Jeffrey, Dustin Linger, MWR Brand Central, MWR Marketing and Outdoor Recreation Send submissions to kimberly.rowe@us.army.mil.

For commercial sponsorship or advertising inquiries, off-base businesses should contact Carly Michael at 253-966-2256 or 253-324-0562.

The JBLM “FOCUS” is an unofficial information source published monthly. All activities described herein, which are open to authorized patrons and, where applicable, guests, are subject to change; contact the activity for confirmation. Opinions are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent FMWR, Joint Base Lewis-McChord or any U.S. government entity. The use of a commercial sponsor logo or mention of a commercial sponsor or other organization does not constitute U.S. government endorsement.

Submissions are welcome but may be edited for accuracy, clarity and style.

Visit us at JBLMmwr.com or like us on Facebook at Facebook.com/JBLMFamilyMWR.

Your truck should work as hard as your boots.

OF OLYMPIA In appreciation of your service and sacrifice, Toyota is offering a $1000 rebate when you finance or lease any new Toyota from your Toyota dealer and Toyota Financial Services, to eligible active and inactive duty personnel.*

$1000 Military Rebate*.

*On approved credit to qualified customers through your participating Toyota dealer and Toyota Financial Services. Not all applicants will qualify. Eligible customers must be in current active duty status in the U.S. Military (Navy, Army, Air Force, Marines, National Guard, Coast Guard and active Reserve) or a U.S. Military inactive reserve that is part of the Individual Ready Rea Reserve, Selected Reserve and inactive National Guard. Rebate offered by Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. Rebate will be applied on lease contracts, first toward amounts due at lease signing or delivery, with any remainder to the capitalized cost reduction or toward the down payment on finance contracts. Finance or lease contract must be executed by January Janua 3, 2013. One rebate per lease or finance transaction. Not compatible with the Toyota College Graduate Program. The Military Rebate Program is subject to change or termination at any time. Some restrictions apply. Program may not be available in all states. See participating dealer for details. Toyota Financial Services has not reviewed and is not responsible for any other offers in this ad. Toyota Financial Services is a service mark of Toyota Motor Credit Corporation. ©2012 Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc

4

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • February 2013

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Call 877.645.4310 Click centurylink.com/usmilitary Come in South Hill Mall – Near Center Court, 253.770.3472 Tacoma Mall – Near Macy’s, 253.475.2618

*Offer ends 5/31/2012. New residential High-Speed Internet or existing residential Pure Broadband customers only. Services and offers not available everywhere. Price-Lock Guarantee Offer applies only to the monthly recurring charge for the listed service for sixty (60) consecutive months; excludes all taxes, fees, surcharges, and monthly recurring fees for modem/router and professional installation. Listed monthly recurring charge of $19.95 applies to CenturyLink™ High-Speed Internet with speeds up to 12 Mbps and requires subscription to a CenturyLink™ Home Phone with Unlimited Nationwide Calling plan. An additional monthly fee (including professional installation, if applicable) and a shipping and handling fee will apply to customer’s modem or router. Offer requires customer to remain in good standing and terminates if customer changes their account in any manner including any change to the required CenturyLink services (cancelled, upgraded, downgraded), telephone number change, or change of physical location of any installed service (including customer moving from residence of installed services). General – CenturyLink may change, cancel, or substitute offers and services, including Locked-In Offer, or vary them by service area, at its sole discretion without notice. Requires credit approval and deposit may be required. Additional restrictions apply. Terms and Conditions – All products and services are governed by tariffs, terms of service, or terms and conditions posted at www.centurylink.com. Taxes, Fees, and Surcharges – Applicable taxes, fees, and surcharges include a Carrier Universal Service charge, National Access Fee surcharge, a one-time High-Speed Internet activation fee, state and local fees that vary by area and certain in-state surcharges. Cost recovery fees are not taxes or government-required charges for use. Taxes, fees, and surcharges apply based on standard monthly, not promotional, rates. Call for a listing of applicable taxes, fees, and surcharges. Monthly Rate – Monthly rate applies while customer subscribes to all qualifying services. If one (1) or more services are cancelled, the standard monthly fee will apply to each remaining service. High-Speed Internet – Customer must accept High-Speed Internet Subscriber Agreement prior to using service. Download speeds will range from 85% to 100% of the listed download speeds due to conditions outside of network control, including customer location, websites accessed, Internet congestion and customer equipment. Private, Direct Connection and Speed Claims – Direct connection and consistency and speed claims are based on providing High-Speed Internet customers with a dedicated, virtual-circuit connection between their homes and the CenturyLink central office. Home Phone with Unlimited Nationwide Calling – Service applies to one (1) residential phone line with direct-dial, local and nationwide long distance voice calling from home phone, including Alaska, Puerto Rico, Guam, and U.S. Virgin Islands; excludes commercial use, call center, data and facsimile services (including dial-up Internet connections, data services, and facsimile; each may be billed at $0.10/minute), conference lines, directory and operator assistance, chat lines, pay-per-call, calling card use, or multi-housing units. Usage will be monitored for compliance and service may be suspended/terminated for noncompliance. An additional charge may be assessed to customer if usage consistently exceeds 5,000 minutes/mo. International calling billed separately. ©2012 CenturyLink, Inc. All Rights Reserved. The name CenturyLink and the pathways logo are trademarks of CenturyLink, Inc.

JBLMmwr.com

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Food & fun

Try The Bistro at Russell Landing February specials The Bistro at Russell Landing, tucked away on the shore of American Lake at Lewis North, offers a mouth-watering variety of specials.

The staff invites you to try: • All-you-can-eat Mondays from 11 a.m.–2 p.m. The menu varies each week — try penne bolognese, pasta alfredo or spaghetti with a dinner roll and beverage for only $10.

• Two-for-one Tuesdays with a different choice each week from 11 a.m.– 2 p.m. Get two entrees for the price of one, including sweet monte and philly sandwiches, personal pizzas and chicken Caesar wraps.

• “App Hours” from 5–7 p.m. Fridays with half-price appetizers and drink specials.

• The Saturday night prime rib special from 5–9 p.m. Only $25 for two people.

• The Family take-out special Fridays from 3–9 p.m. and Saturdays from 5–9 p.m. Spaghetti, garlic bread and a 2-liter bottle of Pepsi feeds a Family of four for only $15.

Save room for dreamy desserts — layered chocolate mousse, chocolate cake, a tower of gelato with toppings, brownie sandwich, house-made apple crisp and peach cobbler, or simply a generous scoop or two of gelato.

Call 253-964-2813 for more information.

Take sweetie to Valentine dinner

Patti Jeffrey

6

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • February 2013

Take your valentine to an intimate candlelight dinner at The Bistro at Russell Landing Thursday, Feb. 14 from 6–9 p.m.

You’ll be seated for a three-course gourmet meal with an appetizer, din-

Clip & save

ner and dessert, plus your choice of a glass of champagne, wine or nonalcoholic beverage. The cost is a steal at $50 per couple.

Reservations are recommended; call 253-964-2813.

called “The Hump,” offered only on Wednesdays from 11 a.m.–2 p.m. If you can eat it by yourself in 45 minutes, it’s yours for free. Regular price is $14.95 if you want to share it around the table.

For more info, call 253-982-3271.

Bump that afternoon slump

Join the club for exclusive deals

Need a delicious pick-me-up after lunch? For only $2, order an 8-oz. latte or mocha from noon–2 p.m. weekdays with AFC Arena Battle Bean Café’s “Bump the Slump.”

AFC Arena Battle Bean is located at 2275 Liggett Ave. at Lewis Main.

It pays even more to become a member of the McChord Club Friday, Feb. 1 through Wednesday, March 13.

Your dues are free for four months, plus you’ll receive free monthly meals, free eats each Friday evening, bingo jackpots worth up to $1,195 and exclusive membership deals (see chart below).

You’ll also get an instant-win scratch ticket for $5, $10, $25 or even $100 cash.

For more information, drop by the club office, 700 Barnes Blvd. at McChord Field or call 253-982-5581. Also visit AFclubs.net to see what else Air Force Clubs offer, such as yearly Family member school scholarships.

Habañero Mexican Grill offers half off — and more If you haven’t yet experienced Habañero Mexican Grill at Whispering Firs Golf Course, come on over for huge freshly made burritos, tacos, salads, soups and more.

Grab a friend and get started with February’s lunchtime offer — buy one lunch and get the second lunch (of equal or lesser value) half off every Monday and Wednesday (beverage not included).

For Valentine’s Day Thursday, Feb. 14, treat your sweetie or best friend to lunch and save 15 percent off your meals.

If you like huge burritos, try the ultimate challenge: Order a 6-lb. burrito

February coupon Get one free scoop of gelato with meal purchase at

The Bistro at Russell Landing!

Enjoy endless German Buffet Pile your plate high with Bavarian favorites atUnfortunately, the all-you-can-eat German Buffet Thursday, Feb. 21,has 5–8 p.m. at this event the McChord Club. Fill up on schnitzel, been canceled. bratwurst more.

Stayand tuned to JBLMmwr.com forisdetails about the next$6.95 The cost $16.95 for adults; all-you-can-eat for children ages 4–10. Reservations are German Buffet. required; call 253-982-5581.

-——--——--- Exclusive McChord Club Member Specials --—-——-——Friday, Feb. 22

5–8 p.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 27 5–7 p.m.

2-for-1 Steak Night; $18.95 for two people Member Appreciation Dinner; free for cardholders; $5 for Family members

Two-fer-Tuesdays 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Two meals for the price of one at Globemaster Grill Fridays 5 p.m. start Bar Bingo with $800–$1,195 jackpot in Globemaster Grill Fridays 5–6 p.m.

Free food in Globemaster Grill While American Lake Community Center is closed for renovation, the McChord Club is happy to cater your parties. Call the catering manager at 253-982-5581 for more information.

8981 American Lake Ave. at Lewis North. Call 253-964-2813.

Offer good Feb. 1–28, 2013. No cash value.

Limit one coupon per customer.

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Food & fun

I

f you need a safe, no-questionsasked ride to your living area from Heroes Sports Lounge, the Warrior Zone or another club at JBLM — call the Better Opportunities for Single Service Members Designated Driver Van at 253-208-9169.

8

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • February 2013

Volunteers drive the van Friday and Saturday nights between barracks, dorms, on-base housing and on-base clubs from 9 p.m.–3 a.m.

To volunteer and to find out other ways to get involved with BOSS, call 253-967-5636.

Attend Sunday ‘Big Game’ parties Feb. 3!

Get ready for one big game at two big locations Sunday, Feb. 3 for ages 18 and older!

Watch the action at the Warrior Zone, plus sign up for a Madden 13 tournament and a “football squares” game. Also get in on food specials, eight brews on tap and door prizes while you watch from an amazing array of TV screens.

The Warrior Zone is on the corner of 17th and D streets at Lewis North. Call 253-477-5756 for more info.

Watch the game on a bigger-than-life screen in cushy comfort at Nelson Recreation Center. The free party includes game snacks, alcohol-free beverages, door prizes and more.

Nelson Rec is located at 3168 2nd Division Dr. at Lewis Main. Call 253-967-2539 for additional info.

Watch UFC 156 & 157 at no charge Ages 18 and older — choose two places to view UFC fights 156 & 157 this month! Both Heroes Sports Lounge and the Warrior Zone are showing UFC 156 Saturday, Feb. 2 and UFC 157 Saturday, Feb. 23: • Doors stay open from 5 p.m.–2 a.m. at Heroes Lounge with music and karaoke after the fights. Choose from 16 brews on tap!

• The Warrior Zone is open 10 a.m.–11 p.m. ­— grab dinner and brews on tap while you watch.

Heroes is your karaoke and dance headquarters Heroes Sports Lounge loves the nightlife: • Drop by Fridays and Saturdays for karaoke and deejay dancing starting at 9 p.m.

• Try your hand at free bar bingo Tuesdays at 7 p.m. with purchase of food or drink.

You can always drop by for free darts and pool. In February, doors are open Monday through Saturday.

Heroes Lounge is inside Cascade Community Center at 2400 Bitar & S. Division at Lewis Main.

JBLM Brewfest returns for 2013!

How’d you like to sample the best local home-crafted brews for only $10?

On Friday, Feb. 22 starting at 4:30 p.m., get your tastebuds tingling with the best lager, pale ale, stout and porter, plus other craft brews at the McChord Club/Community Center’s Brewfest. You’ll also get a light buffet, deejay music and chances at door prizes throughout the evening.

Tasting is open to ages 21 and older. All IDs will be checked at the door.

If you’re a home brewer and want to compete for “The Best of JBLM 2013,” samples are being accepted through Friday, Feb. 15 at 6 p.m. They’ll be judged by certified experts and awarded prizes and medals.

Applications and rules can be downloaded from JBLMmwr.com or picked up at the McChord Community Center, 700 Barnes Blvd. at McChord Field.

Call 253-982-0718 for more details.

Pictured opposite: Karaoke and deejay dancing is in at Heroes Sports Lounge Friday and Saturday nights. Want up-to-date party info? Become a Facebook Fan at Facebook.com/HeroesSportsLounge. Below: The house was packed at the Warrior Zone’s Big Sunday Party last year. Get in on more action by “liking” their Facebook page at Facebook.com/JBLMWarriorZone.

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Food & fun

by Patti Jeffrey

L

ooking for some highadventure recreation with your friends, Family or work unit? Want to plan your own outing but don’t know where to get started?

The Northwest Adventure Center is your best-priced one-stop shop. They’re experienced in high-level fun such as bungee jumping, white-water rafting, mountain biking, ATVing, winter survival camping and even skydiving. They’ll lead hikes that take you underground or up to mountain tree lines. They’ll get you sea kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing. You also can go paintballing, scuba diving, rock climbing, geocaching, skeet and trap shooting — and much more.

“We arrange activities and trips for anyone — large or small groups on long or short trips. We have the ability

to put together nearly any activity with a high level of safety,” says Rick Kivett, Adventure Program manager.

The Outdoor Recreation program goes the extra mile to accommodate what customers want. When a group expresses interest in team building, leadership training, endurance training or just having fun, they first get a thorough consultation to match the activity to suit the needs of the group.

“We arrange activities and trips for anyone — large or small groups on long or short trips. We have the ability to put together nearly any activity with a high level of safety.”

–Rick Kivett, Adventure Program manager

They’ll end up with the best all-inclusive experience — including transportation to and from their destination. Groups can be as large as 32 or as small as six people. The staff can take groups on local trips that last a day or multi-day trips to anywhere within driving distance. The most popular multi-day trips are during extended holiday weekends.

The ODR program also plans Warrior Adventure Quests for Army units returning from deployment. The Army’s WAQ program is designed to relieve boredom and reduce high-risk behaviors by providing a high-adventure activity outdoors. It reinforces team bonding and helps individuals cope with stress and reintegration challenges.

The NAC is not only experienced in providing services to the military but encourages patrons to invite guests on outdoor recreation trips.

“All DoD ID card holders have the ability to sponsor friends and visiting Family members on trips,” Kivett emphasizes. “We love to show as many people as we can what the Pacific Northwest has to offer.”

If you don’t have a group to get outdoors with, the NAC offers a variety of preplanned group trips every weekend.

Full trip descriptions are in the Adventures section of each Focus issue (turn to page 22). Sign up at JBLMmwr.com or call 253-967-6263 for more information.

High adventurers can really connect with their environments. Whether it’s hiking through old-growth centuries-old forests (left) or extreme contact with white-water rapids (right), the experiences reconnect people with fun.

Photos: ODR staff

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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • February 2013

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Food & fun

A little rain, wind or cold can’t keep us from having a good Find plenty of pampering at the 2013 Care Fair Are you tired of long winter days and can’t wait for spring?

Brighten up your day at the free 2013 Operation Care Fair for women Saturday, Feb. 9, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. at the McChord Club/Community Center, 700 Barnes Blvd. at McChord Field.

The atmosphere is fun and friendly and makes a good day out with friends.

The fair features samples, demon-

strations, services and giveaways from numerous wellness-related businesses, including massage therapists, reflexologists, nutrition counselors, hair and makeup consultants, tarot readers and more.

Hors d’oeuvres samples will be served throughout the day and the club has a special cash mimosa bar for attendees.

As a special treat this year, formal gowns and shoes will be given away to event attendees on a first-come, first-

served basis starting at 10 a.m.

For more information, call the MWR event office at 253-967-5776.

Flea Market vendors wanted Clean out your attic and closets and sell your household treasures at the Spring Flea Market Saturday, March 23 from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. in the MWR Fest Tent (next to Bowl Arena Lanes on Liggett Ave. at Lewis Main).

You can rent a 12-foot space for $24 or an 18-foot space for $34. If you need

Providing dental care for military members, their families and retirees of all ages!

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12 Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • February 2013 *FOR ALL NEW PATIENTS WITH COMPREHENSIVE EXAM, NECESSARY X-RAYS AND CLEANING!

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time right here at JBLM!

even more than your 18-foot space, each additional 6-foot space costs $8.

Call 253-967-6772 to reserve your spaces now!

Golfing’s better with February specials You can afford to play golf! Get in on Whispering Firs Golf Course’s February deals at McChord Field: • Play on Lincoln’s birthday, Tuesday, Feb. 12 for $5 pro shop club rentals, $5 large range buckets and $5 burritos at Habañero Mexican Grill.

• Get two-for-one greens fees for you and your “sweetie” on Valentine’s Day, Thursday, Feb. 14. Eat lunch at Habañero Mexican Grill for 15 percent off your and your partner’s meals.

• On Washington’s birthday, Friday, Feb. 22, get $3 medium range bucket of balls.

• Enter the Mystery Cup Tournament Saturday, Feb. 23. The format is two cup-one flag on each green. The cost is $12 plus greens fee; tee-off is at 8 a.m.

For more information, call the pro shop at 253-982-4927.

Get great deals at Bowl Arena Lanes at Lewis Main Like to bowl at Lewis Main? Swing by Bowl Arena Lanes for daily specials: • Mondays, bowl $1.50 per game all day. Seniors can bowl for even less with 75-cent games and shoe rentals.

• Wednesdays are all-you-can-eat pizza and bowling for only $10 from 6:30–8:30 p.m. Prepay to guarantee your lane. (Shoes are not included.)

Call 253-967-4661 for more information.

Sounders Lanes caters to recreational bowlers Want a great bowling experience at McChord Field? Find it at Sounders Lanes with monthly tournaments and specials: • Save with 75-cent bowling and 75cent shoe rental for seniors Wednesdays from 11 a.m.–9 p.m. and Thursdays from 11 a.m.–5 p.m.

• Get $1.50 bowling, $1.50 shoe rental and sodas, fries and drafts — each for $1.50 — every Wednesday.

• Bring your Family and friends to glow-in-the-dark bowling! Fridays, bowl from 9 p.m.–midnight for $10

per person, plus shoe rental. Saturdays, each lane is $36 for up to six people from 7 p.m.–midnight.

• Keep your game sharp! Compete in Sounders Lanes’ popular Nine-Pin No-Tap Tournament series Saturday, Feb. 9. Check in at noon. Reserve your spot now!

Questions? Call 253-982-5954 for more details.

Roller skate at AFC Arena Did you know JBLM has its own roller skating rink? Skate and roller blade at the AFC Arena at Lewis Main!

Find convenient skate times for youth, adults and Families.

Check out the deals and hours of operation at JBLMmwr.com.

The rink is at 2275 Liggett Ave. For more info, call 253-967-4458.

Want a roller skating party?

If you’re in charge of planning an upcoming birthday party, do it the easy way and make it a skating party!

AFC Arena provides a two-hour skate, private table(s), food choices (including ice cream) and party decorations. Call 253-967-4458 for details about party package options.

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Family & the homefront

With Child, Youth & School Services,

getting involved

Make the trip to Parent Central Services today and get access to great sports, activities and programs for your kids!

Y

our quick-and-easy once-ayear registration is free and gets you unparalleled access with CYS Services’ programs and events.

Register at one of Parent Central Services’ two locations — 2295 12th St. (at Bitar Ave.) at Lewis Main or 578 Jackson Blvd. at McChord Field — and then you can sign up for sports, classes, activities, reserve hourly child care and more online.

What you need to bring:

- government ID card, - contact information for home & work - two emergency contacts - shot records - deployment orders, if applicable - 1 LES or paystub or proof of full time-student (only if enrolling in full- or part-day or before/after)

After your visit to Parent Central Service, go to JBLMmwr.com/cys.htm and click on the yellow WebTrac button to register for online access. You’ll literally have CYS Services at your fingertips any time day or night.

By logging onto WebTrac, you can sign up for SKIESUnlimited classes (check out the latest listings on page 18) and seasonal sports, reserve hourly child care or access records and tax information.

14

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • February 2013

Now that you know how easy it is to register, here are a few reasons why you shouldn’t delay your trip to Parent Central Services (go today!): • Middle school/teen program offers fun events and programs at two locations — McChord Field Youth Center and Lewis Main’s Hillside Youth Center–Teen Zone.

• With quality year-round programming, there’s always a special event on the calendar — like this month’s “History Comes to Life” presentation by the McChord Youth Center.

• The Youth Sports Office hosts seasonal sports and sports camps that are recreational in nature. Your young athletes will learn the fundamentals of the game while having fun.

• The learning opportunities are endless — from quality child care and Strong Beginnings Pre–K to babysitting certification and everything in between.

Family-friendly event featuring ‘History Comes to Life’ The McChord Youth Center is busy preparing for the “History Comes to Life” presentation. The event features JBLM youth and is Friday, Feb. 22 at the McChord Theater, 742 Jackson Blvd.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; presentation begins at 6. After the presentation, ev-

eryone’s invited to the McChord Youth Center for refreshments and Family Fun Night until 10 p.m.

Shopping, dancing & movies with your friends at the Teen Zone Check out this month’s fun events for youth in grades 8–12: • Middle School Dance Friday, Feb. 1, 7–9 p.m.

• High School Dance, Friday, Feb. 8, 8–10 p.m.

• Middle school outlet mall trip Wednesday, Feb. 13, 1:45–6:30 p.m.

• 3-on-3 basketball tourney Friday, Feb. 15 • Cheer on JBLM youth as they play at Military Night at Key Arena Saturday, Feb. 16. An $8 ticket also gets you into the Seattle University v. Texas–Arlington game. Details at JBLMmwr.com/cys.

• Movie night Friday, Feb. 22 • High school outlet mall trip Wednesday, Feb. 27, 1:45–6:30 p.m.

The Teen Zone is open to CYS Services-registered middle school and high school students. The Teen Zone, located inside the Hillside Youth Center at 6397 Garcia Blvd. in Lewis Main’s Hillside housing area, is also open for beforeand after-school recreation (there is a fee for before-school care). For information regarding available programs and clubs, call 253-967-4441.

Turn to page 16 for more youth programming.

is fun & easy

Ken Dietiker

Share your love or your daughter ’s soccer team.

Coach your son’s basketball team tion, volunteer ecia appr In h. ing and fitness coac of running as a cross-countr y runn . coaches receive sports fee vouchers

MW

R Brand Central Read to your child’s classroo m at her child developmen t center or help out during a special activity. Inquire at your chil d’s center or Parent Central Ser vices about the Parent Par ticipation Program.

Volunteer your time on the court or in a center to make a difference Coach youth teams Whether you want to share your love of the game — be it soccer, basketball or even running — or would like to have another way to spend time with your children, being a youth coach is a great way to give back to the JBLM community.

Coaches and assistant coaches are always needed, and, as a thank you, CYS Services offers sports fee vouchers for your Family. All coaches must undergo a background check.

For details, call 253-967-2405.

Earn big with the Parent Participation Program

Make a new friend through youth sponsorship

Parents are an important part of the child development center Family, and you’re welcome to spend time in your child’s center. The Parent Participation Program’s benefits are two-fold: you have the opportunity to see your little one in action and you can earn points, too.

Talk to your child’s lead teacher or the center manager about volunteering at the center. For more information on the program, call 253-966-CYSS.

A partnership between JBLM youth centers and School Liaison office, the Youth Sponsorship Program pairs a current JBLM youth with an incoming youth to help make her move to JBLM a smoother one.

• Get involved at Hillside Youth Center or the McChord Field Youth Center.

• Incoming youth can download an application from JBLMmwr.com/cys.

Check out the teen transition and PCS videos at the site above.

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Family & the homefront Spring sports are nearly here!

Seasonal youth sports and sports camps are a great way to meet new friends, get active and learn the fundamentals of the game. Recreational in nature, JBLM youth sports are open to young athletes of all ability levels.

• Lil’ Batters, open to youngsters ages 3–4 for $20. The season runs April 29–June 6. This is a Start Smart Camp; there are no games.

Registration for track and field opens in March. Plus, there are many sports camps scheduled

Your little ones will swing for the fences on the Lil’ Batters team, open to ages 3–4. Spring baseball is open to players ages 5–15.

Upcoming spring sports include: • Cross-country running and fitness, open to ages 8–15. Choose from 5K and 10K distances. Registration is open Feb. 1–March 15. The cost is $35. The 5K season runs Mondays and Wednesdays March 20–Aug. 28, and the 10K season runs Tuesdays and Thursdays March 21–Aug. 29.

• Special Olympics swimming, open to youth ages 8–18 with and without special needs who know how to swim.

Registration is open Feb. 10–March 22 for $55. The season runs March 13–June 2.

• Special Olympics track and field, also open to youth ages 8–18 with and without special needs. Registration is $55 and runs from Feb. 10– April 5. The season is from March 28– June 2.

• Baseball, open to players ages 5–15 for $60. Registration is open Feb. 11– April 5. The season runs April 29– June 15.

16

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • February 2013

throughout spring and summer.

Choose from golf, soccer, rugby and more. For details, stay tuned to Focus or visit JBLMmwr.com/cys.

Turn back to page 14 for registration requirements and procedures. For more information, call the Youth Sports Office at 253-967-2405.

Stretch, run and lift with the Youth Fitness Program Teens ages 13–15 are invited to work out with a CYS Services youth fitness trainer. Offered at Jensen Family Health and Fitness Center on weekdays, the Youth Fitness Program is free and registration is ongoing.

Youth and a parent/guardian must attend an orientation/assessment before getting started, after which youth may work out at Jensen under the guidance of the youth trainer Monday–Friday, 3–7 p.m. For more information, call 253-967-2405.

What the School Liaison Office can do for you Fun, friends & learning at Home School Activity Days Home-schooled students are invited to Home School Activity Days at the Hillside Youth Center. Held four times each month, the events are from noon– 2 p.m. for ages 6–18.

Sign-up is on a monthly basis; the cost is $25 for the first child and $5 for each additional child. Parents aren’t required to stay but must complete a first-time orientation. February’s orientation is Tuesday, Feb. 5.

For a full calendar of dates through the end of the school year, visit JBLMmwr.com/cys. For event details, call 253-967-4441.

Enroll now for Teen Certified Babysitter Classes Become a great (responsible and prepared) babysitter — complete the 10hour certification course. Learn basic care for infants and children, developmental ages and stages, safety and First Aid/CPR, character and role modeling, plus business practices.

Upcoming classes are Feb. 22–23 and March 8–9. Part 1 is Friday, 4–9 p.m.; part 2 is Saturday, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. At the completion of the course, you may opt to place your name on the babysitter referral list, which is maintained at the Hillside Youth Center.

Must be registered with CYS Services; call 253-967-4441 for course details.

See next page for SKIESUnlimited programming.

The School Liaison Office is here to help foster relationships with schools, provide valuable reference information and, if you’re new to the area, help with the transition process.

Prepping for college begins ... now!

If you’re a sophomore or junior in high school (or the parent of a student in grades 10–11) and are interested in college, don’t miss this! Learn about college readiness and access at a free event brought to you by GEAR UP and the School Liaison Office Saturday, Feb. 23 at Evergreen Elementary School at Lewis Main.

“College Access: What are the next steps?” is from 9 a.m.–1:30 p.m., and college and community resources will be available. Free transportation is available from Clover Park and Lakes high schools at 8:15 a.m.; buses will return by 2 p.m.

Space is limited and registration is required; return your registration form (available at JBLMmwr.com/cys) to the main office of Lakes or Clover Park high schools or the School Liaison Office by Friday, Feb. 15. For details, call 253-967-7195.

Two valuable lists you don’t want to miss!

Two important lists for high school students and their parents — scholarships for military Families and local community and technical colleges — are available at JBLMmwr.com/cys at the bottom of the School Liaison Office page under the heading “Other Resources.” While your sponsor Soldier or Airman is stationed at JBLM, you’re eligible for in-state tuition.

Help the schools help your military children The JBLM School Liaison Office is conducting a survey that could help improve the funding to your child’s school. Students from military Families are currently attending 307 schools in more than 22 school districts, and it’s to our benefit that we find out the number of students at each school — by getting an accurate count of JBLM-affiliated students in a school district, the schools will receive the appropriate amount of Federal Impact Aid. With the results, the School Liaison Office can ensure that the schools are looking at providing enrichment programs, academic achievement programs and emotional support programs for students from military Families.

To take the survey, visit JBLMmwr.com/cys and click on the “Military Youth in Schools” button at the top right. By including your email address at the end of the survey, you’ll be entered to win a flat-screen TV. The survey will be available online by Monday, Feb. 4; it’s open to Service Members, civilian employees and contractors working at JBLM with students in kindergarten–12th grade.

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Family & the homefront Stay busy, have fun with SKIESUnlimited Youth Academy Fun’s in full swing, and SKIESUnlimited is happy to announce the addition of several classes and locations.

In addition to the Hillside SKIESUnlimited location, 6395 Garcia Blvd. at Lewis Main, classes are now also offered at the McChord Club/Community Center, McChord Youth Center and North Fort Outback.

The SKIESUnlimited Youth Academy schedule includes a variety of dance options, karate, music and more.

SKIES stands for the Schools of Knowledge, Inspiration, Exploration and Skills. The goal of the academy is to provide opportunities for children to explore new skills and cultivate personal interests.

Karate students are doing just that: “I’m looking forward to breaking boards.

I already broke one. It’s easy!” — Megan, karate student, age 8 “I like doing blocks and punches in karate class. It’s my favorite part!” — Ryan, karate student, age 11 Karate classes are available for students ages 4–18 from the beginning to advanced levels at the Hillside SKIESUnlimited location.

The benefits of being active Active children are healthy children.

Through physical activity, they can gain stronger muscles and bones and a better outlook on life, among other benefits.

Other classes to get your children active include dance (parent-and-me, jazz, hip-hop and ballet), gymnastics, art and music.

Dance classes are offered at all of the locations above and in various combinations. Your aspiring dancer can choose to focus on ballet or jazz or take ballet/tap, jazz/hip-hop, dance/cheer and more.

Gymnastics classes are offered for 18

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • February 2013

Ursula Buford

Aspiring ballerinas will love twirling and dancing with new friends. Little dancers will develop strength, balance, confidence and flexibility. youth ages 6 months–18 years for all abilities. All classes have been moved to the North Fort Outback, a location which is also home to a number of art and dance classes.

The Flipz4Kids traveling bus provides more gymnastic opportunities for youngsters. The bus visits child development centers at JBLM. In addition to health benefits, participation in extracurricular activities can boost self-esteem, according to KidsHealth.

SKIESUnlimited parents concur: “I’m excited for my youngest to learn confidence in himself and his abilities.”

— Heather, Karate parent “I’m excited to see my little boy see himself progressing. He’s so proud to be a yellow belt!” — Jenniffer, Karate parent “Ballet is fun and exciting too! (My kids) having fun and enjoying themselves in the classroom, that is the most important thing!” — Michelle, ballet and karate mom Find out what else is new at SKIESUnlimited: turn to page 30.

JBLM & ARMY COMMUNITY SERVICE PREP TO CELEBRATE

Month of the Military Child

M

ilitary youth in kindergarten through grade 5 are invited to showcase their creativity in the Month of the Military Child’s poster contest. This year’s theme for the Poster Contest is, “My World As a Military Child.”

Submissions will be accepted from the following grade categories: K–1, 2–3 and 4–5. Drop-off points for posters will be located at several places on the installation, including Grandstaff Library, the ACS office in Waller Hall, Airman & Family Readiness and all JBLM grade schools. Artwork may also

Young artists are invited to enter their works of art in the Month of the Military Child poster contest: “My World as a Military Child.” be dropped off at this year’s Kids’ Fest event Thursday, April 4.

Submissions should have the artists’ name, grade and school written on the back of the poster as well as a way to contact parents (phone or email).

Prizes will be awarded in each category, and winners’ artwork will be displayed around the installation.

The annual contest, which had hundreds of submissions last year, is just

one of the many activities and events at JBLM geared toward our youngest citizens. Look to next month’s issue of the Focus to find out more from Army Community Service.

Call 253-968-2299 for more information about the poster contest, and visit JBLMmwr.com and navigate to the Army Community Service pages under “Service Member and Family Support” to see some of last year’s winning artwork.

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Family & the homefront

MORE GREAT EVENTS FROM JBLM ACS

Recognize volunteers, find employment & increase resiliency in our community Nominate a deserving individual for Volunteer of the Year JBLM volunteers make a difference at our installation every day. They work thousands of hours each year at many programs and services across the base.

Now you have a chance to say a very heartfelt thank you — nominate a hardworking volunteer in your organization for the title of Volunteer of the Year.

The JBLM Installation Volunteer Office will be accepting nominations for the Volunteer of the Year award beginning Tuesday, Feb. 19. Categories are: youth (age 18 and younger), retiree, Family, active duty and adult. To be eligible: • Volunteer must be registered with the Volunteer Management Information System at MyArmyOneSource.com.

• Active duty Service Members must be stationed at JBLM. • Primary volunteer service must be with organization(s) at JBLM during the 2012 calendar year.

Describe in detail, in no more than 750 words, the volunteer’s or Family’s 2012 accomplishments, the impact of their accomplishment to your organization and the community and why the nominated individual volunteer or Family should be recognized as Volunteer/Family of the Year.

Nominations will be reviewed by a panel independently and selections will be announced at the annual Volunteer Recognition Luncheon and Awards Ceremony May 1, 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. at the 20

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • February 2013

McChord Club/Community Center.

Nominations must be accompanied with a completed nomination form and hand-carried to the Family Resource Center by 4:30 p.m. . Monday, March 18.

The FRC is located at 4274 Idaho St. (at 9th Division) at Lewis Main.

Download a nomination form at JBLMmwr.com and go to the ACS pages under “Service Member and Family Support.” For more information or to volunteer, call 253-967-2324.

There are many great ways to get involved with the JBLM community — learn, grow and volunteer. By attending free workshops, you can improve resiliency, prepare for a deployment or reunion and network.

Looking for employment?

If you’re looking for employment in the healthcare industry, attend the Employment Workshop at the Airman & Family Readiness Center Wednesday, Feb. 27 from 9 a.m.–1 p.m.

The event begins with a panel discussion at 9 a.m., followed by an open career/hiring fair.

Improve resiliency in your life, unit and community Spouse Resiliency Workshops are easier to attend than ever — they’ve been reformatted to three-hour modules and are offered at both ACS Waller Hall (Lewis Main) and McChord Field.

You’ll learn about hunting for the good stuff, avoiding thinking traps and building character strength, along with real-time resilience and assertive com-

munication.

For details or to register, call ACS at Lewis Main, 253-967-3544, or ACS at McChord Field, 253-982-2695.

Prepare for a deployment or reunion, get parenting tips Whether you’re preparing for a deployment or reunion, have kids or don’t, the Mobilization & Deployment Office holds free workshops to prepare you for the emotions and big events.

ACS also offers a number of parenting classes for all stages of childhood and into the teen years. Classes include Scream-Free Parenting and Children, Crossroads of Parenting & Divorce.

For a complete schedule of all ACS workshops and events, visit the event calendar at JBLMmwr.com or like the Facebook page, Facebook.com/JBLMacs.

Paradise awaits Plan your tropical trip at the 2013 Travel Fair Brought to you by Leisure Travel Services

Dream of digging your toes into the sand as you watch an amazing sunset, leaving the gray Washington days behind? Head to the beaches of Hawaii.

Book your affordable dream vacation at the 5th Annual Travel Fair at AFC Arena Wednesday, March 6, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Want a fun trip your young ones will never forget? Plan a trip to Disneyland.

If sailing away is your idea of a great vacation, book a cruise.

Sports fan? Buy tickets to a local event and then stay overnight in the Emerald City — a sort of staycation.

Do all this and more at the free fair, brought to you by MWR’s Leisure Travel Services.

Find the perfect discount trip! LTS

staffers will help you find the best deals around, whether you’re looking for an exotic vacation package, a local day trip or something in between. Vendors include: • Argosy Cruises & Tillicum Village • BW Hotels • City of Tacoma • Hawaii vendors • Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce • Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad

• Norwegian Caribbean Cruise line • Princess Cruises • Ride the Ducks of Seattle • Seattle Mariners • Silverwood Theme Park • Wildwaves Water Park AFC Arena, 2275 Liggett Ave., is next to Bowl Arena Lanes at Lewis Main. For details, call at 253-967-3085.

For guided outdoor trips, turn the page to the Adventures section.

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21

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Monday, February 18,2013 2013(Presidents (PresidentsDay) Day) Monday, February Monday, February 18, 2013 (Presidents Day) 18, Experience the exhibits on view in the museum galleries and 10:00letam am 5:00 pmin glass fusing and bead-making 10:00 ––5:00 pm the kids/teens participate 10:00 am – 5:00 pm workshops**

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22

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • February 2013

The

Adventures

winter experience

Don’t let winter weather keep you indoors. Get outside with confidence thanks to the Winter Survival Camping trip. If you’d rather play in the snow, choose from nearly two dozen adventure trip options below.

ATV RiderCourse™ Whether you want to ride on an all-terrain vehicle for the first time or want to work on your riding skills, this Sunday, March 10 clinic is for you. ATV Safety Institutecertified instructors will guide you through the fun and excitement of safely riding an ATV. We’ll ride rain or shine, so dress for the weather. Trip fee includes ATV, helmet and goggles. ASI ATV RiderCourse Certification will be awarded upon completion. Minimum age: 16 ($30)

Bungee jumping Head to the base of Mount St. Helens to bungee jump off the highest bungee bridge in the country Saturday, Feb. 16! A full 20 stories high, the spectacular private bridge is nestled in an emerald green forest above a sparkling river. If you’re craving adrenaline, you won’t be disappointed with this trip. Trip fee includes two jumps and a Dangerous Sports Club T-shirt; bragging rights also included.

Minimum weight: 90 lbs. ($135)

Cross-country ski Keechelus Lake Spend a great day in the snow-filled Cascades skiing along Keechelus Lake near Snoqualmie Pass Sunday, Feb. 24.

Gear and basic instruction are in-

cluded. You should go to the Northwest Adventure Center before trip-day to be fitted for gear. Difficulty: easy; distance: five miles; time: 3 hours. Minimum age: 12 ($40)

Explore Victoria, B.C. Hop on a ferry and spend the day exploring Victoria, B.C. by foot. The downtown area has everything from antique shops to artisan chocolate shops. Plus, you can stop in at the Royal B.C. Museum or watch an IMAX film. Fee for the Sunday, Feb. 24 trip includes walk-on roundtrip ferry ticket and transportation to and from Port Angeles. A passport is required. ($100; ages 5–11: $85; ages 0–4: $55)

Introduction to mountain biking Never been mountain biking? It’s time to change that Sunday, March 17! This ride is an instructional guide designed for beginners looking to try something new. You’ll spend the day learning the basics involved in mountain biking and then have plenty of time to work on your newfound skills. Bike, helmet and gloves provided. Location will be determined based on conditions. Difficulty: easy; distance: five to six miles; ride time: 4 hours. Minimum age: 12 ($35)

Military Appreciation Day at Crystal Don’t miss the chance to ski or ride Crystal for half-price Friday, March 8!

Transportation and gear are provided (go to the NAC to be fitted for gear).

Lift tickets aren’t included but should be purchased at the mountain. ($40; transportation only: $25)

Moonlight snowshoe Gold Creek Pond Snowshoe on the trails of Snoqualmie Pass by the light of the moon Saturday, Feb. 23. Gear, guide and instruction are provided. Difficulty: beginner; distance: one-and-a-half miles; elevation gain: 50 feet; time: 2 hours. Minimum age: 12 ($40)

Red wine and chocolate tour Calling all chocolate lovers and wine connoisseurs! Join us Feb. 16–17 as we head to the Olympics, where each winery will pair a sumptuous chocolate fare with a remarkable red wine. We’ll stop for lunch in Port Angeles. Price includes event admission, a variety of wine samples, one night’s lodging and a commemorative glass. Minimum age: 21 (Single occupancy: $240; double occupancy: $190 each; three per room: $175 each; four per room: $165 each) Continued on next page.

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23

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Ski-n-snowboard at Mission Ridge

Snowmobile the Cascades For

Travel across the mountains to central Washington for a day of skiing at the beautiful Mission Ridge Ski Resort Saturday, March 2. Gear is provided; go to the NAC to be fitted. ($50; transportation only: $30)

those seeking the most fun-filled winter experience out there, check out this snowmobiling trip through the Cascade Mountains. You’ll have a day of fun and snow-covered action Sunday, March 3. Snowmobile, helmet, boots, gloves and snowsuit are provided. Dress in layers. Minimum age to drive: 16 ($160; adult passenger: $125; passenger 15 and younger: $75)

Ski-n-snowboard Stevens Pass Head for the snow and spend the day at Stevens Pass Saturday, March 16. Gear is provided; you’ll be fitted for your gear when you sign up for the trip. ($50; if you have your own gear, transportation is only $30)

HWY. 512

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Jim@SeldenGroup.com 253.539.2217 Cell: 253.693.8031

MILITARY SPECIALS!

www.freestonecherrymeadows.com www.freestonerosewood.com 24 Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • February 2013

spend the day at White Pass Saturday, Feb. 23! You can rent crosscountry skis or snowshoes as well.

You’ll be fitted for your gear when you sign up for the trip; please specify what gear you need). Lift tickets aren’t provided (except for lessons package) but may be purchased at JBLMmwr.com (look for the “Lift Tickets & Military Deals” button) or at the mountain. ($50; transportation only is $30; lessons package includes gear, lesson and lift ticket and is $100.)

Snowshoe Paradise Explore Mount Rainier’s Glacier Vista Sunday, March 17. Gear and instruction are provided. Difficulty: moderate to difficult; distance: three miles; time: 3 hours. Minimum age: 12 ($40)

Snowshoe Hurricane Ridge Discover the beauty of the Olympic Mountain Range from snowshoeing trails that offer something for everybody. Gear and instruction are provided for the Saturday, March 9 trip. Minimum age: 12. ($60)

Snowtubing Looking for a way to get the entire Family out in the snow

, n o i t c a Fu n, , y t u a e b ! t n e m e t exci Photos courtesy Outdoor Recreation Program

You’ll find all four on this awesome snowmobiling trip through the Cascade Mountains. The Familyfriendly trip is Sunday, March 3, and all gear (including snowsuit, helmet and gloves) is provided. See full trip description below at left.

having fun together? Look no further than snowtubing! Travel to one of Washington’s greatest tubing hills for a great day in the snow. Dress warmly, and get ready to go for a wild ride Sunday, Feb. 17 or Sunday, March 3! ($35; ages youth 6–12: $25; ages 0–5: $5)

Waterfall tour Explore the greatest

Park for an overnight trip (March 9–10) to learn the basics of trip preparation and travel, shelter construction and survival basics, backcountry cooking and leave-no-trace camping. There is Outdoor adventure trip

Date

a mandatory pre-trip class Wednesday, March 6, 5–6 p.m. Fee includes winter camping class, group gear (not including sleeping bag), park entrance and two camp meals. Minimum age: 18 ($75) Cost

Details

Red wine & chocolate tour

Feb. 16–17

$165+

See trip description for occupancy-based pricing

Bungee jumping

Feb. 16

$135

Minimum weight: 90 lbs.

Snowtubing

Feb. 17

$35

Ages 6–12: $25; ages 0–5: $5

concentration of waterfalls in the continental United States — it’s right here in the Pacific Northwest. On Saturday, March 16, travel along the Historic Columbia River Highway, which has an abundance of small waterfalls viewable from the road. We’ll stop at at least five major waterfalls, including the worldfamous Multnomah Falls that plunges more than 620 feet from its origins.

Lunch will be in Hood River, Ore. ($65; ages 5–12: $40; ages 0–4: $15)

Snowshoe Hurricane Ridge

March 9

$60

Minimum age: 12

ATV RiderCourse ™

March 10

$30

Minimum age: 16

Westport crabbing Join us for a day of

Ski-n-snowboard Stevens Pass

March 16

$50

Transportation only: $30

fun at Westport! On Saturday, March 2, you’ll learn how to catch, identify and cook crabs. Gear and bait are included.

You’ll need to purchase your fishing license. ($35)

Winter survival camping trip Head to Paradise in Mount Rainier National

Ski-n-snowboard White Pass

Feb. 23

$50

Lessons package: $100; transportation only: $30

Moonlight snowshoe Gold Creek Pond

Feb. 23

$40

Minimum age: 12

Cross-country ski Keechelus Lake

Feb. 24

$40

Minimum age: 12

Explore Victoria, B.C.

Feb. 24

$100

Ages 5–11: $85; ages 0–4: $55

Ski-n-snowboard at Mission Ridge

March 2

$50

Transportation only: $30

Westport crabbing

March 2

$35

Fishing license required

Snowtubing

March 3

$35

Ages 6–12: $25; ages 0–5: $5

Snowmobile the Cascades

March 3

$160

See trip description for pricing details

Military Appreciation Day at Crystal

March 8

$40

Transportation only: $25

Winter survival camping trip

March 9–10

$75

Minimum age: 18

Waterfall tour

March 16

$65

Ages 5–12: $40; ages 0–4: $15

Snowshoe Paradise

March 17

$40

Minimum age: 12

Introduction to mountain biking

March 17

$35

Minimum age: 12

Preregistration is required for all trips; prices and schedule subject to change without notice. Gear and transportation included unless otherwise stated. Lift tickets for ski-n-snowboard trips aren’t included unless otherwise stated. Register through WebTrac (visit JBLMmwr.com) or at the Northwest Adventure Center at Lewis North. Confirm pick-up locations upon registration for the trips. Group rates and private trips are available; call for details. We’ll visit FRG meetings or unit functions to tell you about all of the great recreation and adventure options in the area.

More info: 253-967-6263 • JBLMmwr.com

Especially accommodates people with exceptional needs

Popular with Families

JBLMmwr.com

25

Feelin’ good

ST. PATTY’S DAY RUN & IRISH CRAIC

Scott Hansen, Northwest Guardian

Fitness, fun for the entire community Run & after-party promise good times for all

W

hether you’re entering the St. Patty’s Day Fun Run or playing intramural sports, you’re sure to have a great time!

Check out what the JBLM Sports & Fitness Office has on tap (besides Irish beer after you cross the finish line at the St. Patty’s Day Fun Run) for you this season.

26

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • February 2013

Bring your lucky charms to the starting line at the St. Patty’s Day Run & Irish Craic (good times) on Saturday, March 16!

The end of the rainbow (or race, as the case may be for some) leads to the MWR Fest Tent and the Irish Craic.

The day’s event kicks off at 2 p.m. with a 5K/10K Fun Run, followed by an awards ceremony for the runners. The top three finishers in each division will receive a medal.

The food and beverage tent opens at 2:30 p.m., and at 4:30 p.m., the party begins with live music from Irish band Tiller’s Folly and Irish dancing featuring Scoil Rince Slieveloughane. Enjoy Irish bangers (sausages) and mash, plus

Irish brews.

See if you have the luck o’ Irish. Just for showing up to the party, you’ll be entered to win the grand prize of four tickets to see a Seattle Seahawks 2013 regular season home game. Race participants will receive two entries. Other door prizes will be given away throughout the event.

Register for the race at JBLMmwr.com/ races by noon March 5 to guarantee a race T-shirt. Preregistration is $15 for DoD ID card holders and $25 for civilians. Day-of-race fee is $20 for ID card holders and $30 for civilians. Race-day registration begins at 12:30 p.m. at the MWR Fest Tent.

For details, call 253-967-4768.

Get your kicks with the intramural soccer program The intramural soccer season begins Monday, Feb. 25 and runs through May 17. All DoD ID card holders not eligible for youth sports (through Child, Youth & School Services) are invited to participate.

Unit teams at the company level are highly encourage to play and can receive Commander’s Trophy points.

You may also create your own “open” team of friends, neighbors and coworkers. To enter a team, review the rules on the Intramural Sports page at JBLMmwr. com, and fill out a Letter of Intent.

Return it to Cowan Stadium by 4 p.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 20.

There are mandatory information session at Cowan Stadium or McChord Fitness Center Tuesday, Feb. 5 at 2 p.m. For more information, call 253-967-4768.

Get paid to get in shape With the Civilian Fitness Program, civilian employees at JBLM can workout at a JBLM sports and fitness center while using administrative leave. Supervisor approval and a medical release form are required to participate in this program, and a health and fitness screening must be completed.

The next screening is Wednesday, Feb. 13 at 8 a.m. at Jensen Family Health and Fitness Center. To sign up for the assessment or for more information, call 253-966-3757.

Swimming or splashing, JBLM pools are fun From youth swim lessons and recreational swimming to lap swimming and physical training opportunities, the JBLM pools are open for your water-filled fitness use. For hours and locations, visit JBLMmwr.com and navigate to the pools under the “Recreation” header.

Go for the gold! Here’s how to become part of the All Army Sports Team Supporting the readiness and well-being of Soldiers, the All Army Sports Program helps take athletes to the next level of competition — Armed Forces Sports Championships, national competitions and athletic arenas around the world. If you have the desire and potential to compete on the All Army stage, apply today for any of the following sports: • Bowling closes Feb. 15 • Volleyball (indoor and sand) closes Feb. 26 • Triathlon open now • Men’s soccer opens Feb. 1 Applications will be accepted beginning April 1 for men’s and women’s softball, marathon and the Army Ten Miler.

Download an application at ArmyMWR.com. You’ll also find a list of requirements for each sport. Consider including other items to support your nomination — certificates, letters of recommendation or newspaper articles.

You must have command approval before being considered by the selection panel, which is comprised of the All Army Sports staff at Family and MWR Programs and the Army Coach of each sport. Background, recent athletic performances and athletic awards are considered along with other standards.

From Army MWR: Counseil Internationale du Sport Militaire, known around the world as CISM, is comprised of more than 100 nations whose military athletes compete annually around the theme of "Friendship Through Sports." Every four years, in the year prior to the Olympic Games, the member nations gather for the World Military Sports Games, which replicates the Olympic experience for military athletes. Performance in the Armed Forces Championships is used to select participants for CISM competitions.

This is a short-term opportunity (1–3 months depending on the sport and your selection for higher competition). This is NOT a change in MOS opportunity or PCS. Selected Soldier-Athletes have to be at an actual duty assignment in order to apply and will return to their present duty station upon completion of the competition.

As part of the All Army Sports Team, Soldier-Athletes are Soldiers first and outstanding athletes second.

Through the program, Soldier-Athletes see their athletic performance, military bearing and human spirit of competition realized.

Apply today to become a member of the All Army Sports Team — go to ArmyMWR.com and search for “All Army Sports Application.”

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Learning & earning

The answer to your emergency financial situation?

ARMY EMERGENCY RELIEF & THE AIR FORCE AID SOCIETY AT JBLM

By Donna Lay and Rochelle Hicklin, JBLM Army Emergency Relief Program

F

or many, the aftershock of the holiday season hits as the bills roll in. During the holiday shopping and spending, it didn’t seem like the spending was as out-of-control but the credit cards statements and low or no savings tell a different story.

Your first thought may be fear that the bills won’t get paid or your Family won’t be provided for. Many also think, “Get the taxes filed to see how much of a refund we have coming in.” Until that happens, enough money comes in to pay the rent, utilities, food, gas, car payment, phone bill and car insurance with a little left to buy some fast food.

You made it — barely. The holiday spending will be paid off when the refund check is deposited and money will

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be put back in the savings account.

But then the unexpected emergency happens! The tire on the primary vehicle blows out, the car breaks down, a Red Cross message requesting your presence due to a Family member’s medical situation arrives or a nonreceipt of pay shows on the next LES. There’s no money after the monthly expenses are paid, let alone any money for the emergency.

Now what do you do? Where can you go to get financial assistance that does not have hidden costs or high fees?

For Army military personnel, Army Emergency Relief is the answer. The Air Force Aid Society serves Airmen.

Both AER and AFAS were founded in 1942 and are non-profit organizations

supported by private donations. Both were instituted to assist eligible Service Members and retirees with emergency financial needs through the use of interest-free loans and/or grants.

AER in 2012 alone disbursed nearly $1.9 million to meet emergency financial needs with traditional assistance such as rent, food, utilities, essential POV repairs, funeral expenses and travel expenses from JBLM. To meet the changing needs of the military, AER headquarters added more categories of assistance such as child car seats, cranial helmets, repairs of stoves or refrigerators, furniture, rental vehicles and replacement vehicles.

As well as assisting with funds to cover emergency needs, both AER and

Events at your JBLM libraries Earn your degree faster

MWR Brand Central

AFAS also offer scholarship grants to eligible spouses and dependent children.

The AER scholarship applications for the Spouse Education Assistance Program and the MG James Ursano Scholarship Program can be found at AERhq.org under the “Education” link. The AFAS scholarship application for the General Henry H. Arnold Education Grant Program can be located at afas.org also under the “Education” link.

During the 2012–13 academic year, 2,765 children were awarded $6.7 million in scholarships, and 776 spouses were awarded $2 million through AER. With an average award of more than $2,400, the scholarships greatly relieved some of the financial burden associated with pursuing higher education.

The mission of AER in “Helping the Army Take Care of its Own” can measure its 70 years of success through the continued support of Soldiers helping Soldiers during its annual fundraising campaign. The 2013 campaign kickoff this month, “Support Soldiers and their Families Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow,” officially opens this year’s fundraising campaign season running from March 1–May 15.

For more information regarding the AER programs and services, call the 253-967-9852. For information about the Air Force Aid Society, call the Airman & Family Readiness Center at 253-982-2695.

If you’re enrolled in college courses or are planning to pursue higher education, attend the CLEP Fair to find out how you can earn your degree faster.

Learn about the CLEP process, test-taking strategies and resources available in preparation for taking the CLEP tests at the McChord Library Tuesday, Feb. 26 at noon.

Registration is required and begins Tuesday, Feb. 12. Visit JBLMmwr.com/ libraries and click on the “Calendar of Events” button to register.

This event is brought to you by the McChord Library and the McChord Education Center. For more information, call 253-982-3454 (you may also register by phone).

February is Library Book Lovers’ Month! Stop by any of the JBLM libraries to check out the special books set aside for our book lovers!

Reading, songs & fun Bring your youngsters in to a storytime event at a JBLM library for a good book, crafts, activities and lots of fun!

Choose from three weekly events: • McChord Library hosts two weekly storytimes: Thursdays at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. For more information, call 253-982-3454.

• Book Patch Children’s Library hosts storytime Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.

Call 253-967-5533 for details.

Ken Dietiker

You can save big on class books, too! The MWR Bookstore inside Stone Education Center will meet or beat any book price on class books! If you’re pursuing a degree and want to make the experience a little easier on your wallet, stop by the Stone Education Center Room, 6242 Colorado Ave., Room B144, at Lewis Main. The book store is open Monday– Thursday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Stop by for more information or call 253-964-8185.

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Family & the homefront

Get connected with the JBLM Middle School/Teen program!

Get updates on your favorite programs.

Text one of the activity codes below to 40404: Follow JBLMTeens Follow JBLMYouthSports Follow JBLMSKIES Get event & program info — “like” us today!

Facebook.com/JBLMCYSSTeen Facebook.com/JBLMCYSS Facebook.com/JBLMCYSSytl Get Family & MWR updates “Follow JBLMMWR” or like us at Facebook.com/JBLMFamilyMWR Reply with OFF at anytime to discontinue texts. Text service provided free of charge by Twitter. You must have a text message plan from your carrier. A data plan from your provider maybe required if you click on links in the Texts. No federal endorsement implied.

SKIESUnlimited Youth Academy Continued from page 18.

What’s new at SKIESUnlimited The staffers at SKIESUnlimited are always adding new classes with experienced instructors.

Recently, Magical Mathematical Skills for Preschoolers was added to the schedule, along with two other parenting classes that are offered Fridays on a rotating basis. Magical Math will teach you ways to introduce your preschooler to math concepts they’ll soon see in school. Bite-Size Physical Science and Fun with Art round out the parenting curriculum. Look for more information in next month’s Focus, or log into WebTrac to register for upcoming classes.

Other relatively new additions to the SKIESUnlimited monthly schedule are classes in the school of music.

Guitar, piano and voice classes are taught in small groups and focus on peer collaboration for a fun learning experience.

Group guitar moves quickly to teach students to write and play songs using basic chords. If students wish to learn more, scales, music theory and reading music will also be taught.

Fun, teamwork and musicality are the emphasis of group piano classes.

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The curriculum of this pressure-free class includes music theory, mentoring, games and a personal project.

Students excel in music when they have the opportunity to learn from one another free from peer pressure, instructor Tarana believes. Through this class, your budding pianists will be well on the road to independent musicians, reading and creating music. Private lessons are available.

Group voice focuses on learning healthy and natural vocal techniques.

Singers will learn games that teach ear training, harmony and rhythm.

About registration For complete class schedules, visit WebTrac at JBLMmwr.com/cys and click on the yellow WebTrac button.

Classes are subject to availability and registration is on a monthly basis (enrollment period begins the first of the month for the next month’s classes; sign up by the fourth Friday).

Classes may be changed or canceled by instructors due to low enrollment. No classes are held on federal holidays. As new options have been added, please check locations when registering for classes.

You must be registered with CYS Services to sign up for classes. For more information, call 253-966-CYSS.

US Family Health Plan—a perfect fit!

Active duty family members, enjoy having your own civilian doctor.

US Family Health Plan is a TRICARE Prime option with special benefits.

FREE for active duty family members:  Free doctor visits  Free emergency room visits  Free urgent care visits  Free baby delivery in civilian hospitals

Plus discounts on eyeglasses, massage, acupuncture, naturopathy, vitamins and supplements

Now with locations near you—

Visit the new PacMed clinic in Puyallup or a Franciscan Health System clinic in Tacoma, University Place, Federal Way, Milton, Enumclaw, Lakewood, Puyallup, Dupont, Gig Harbor or Port Orchard.

Learn more! 1 (866) 418-7346

Already have TRICARE Prime coverage? You can transfer to USFHP by phone.

Come to a meeting: www.facebook.com/USFamilyHealthPlan Visit us online: www.PacMed.org/USFHP PacMed is a trademark of Pacific Medical Centers.

The TRICARE logo and wordmark are registered trademarks of the TRICARE Management Activity. All rights reserved.

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