April – May 2021
Each Day is a Beach Day PLUS . . .
MONTH OF THE MILITARY CHILD • SWIM SEASON OPENING • FITNESS COMPETITIONS & CLASSES CHILDREN'S ART SHOW • AERO CLUB FLIGHTS & OPEN HOUSE • PGA JUNIOR GOLF LEAGUE
Membership required. Repayment Example: For a new auto, if you borrow $45,000 at 2.99% APR for 66 months, your monthly payment is approximately $742.11. • • • Paid ad. No federal endorsement of advertiser intended.
APRIL–MAY
2021 RECREATION + FITNESS 6 • Beach Park & Pool . . . . . . . . . . . 7
• Fitness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-15
• Outdoor Rec . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-11
• Golf Course . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-17
LEGENDS: OPEN FOR DINING PAGE 5 BEACH PARK & POOL OPENINGS PAGE 7
ENRICHMENT + TRAVEL 18 • Aero Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
• Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
• Auto Hobby Shop . . . . . . . . . . . 19
• A&FRC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22-23
• ITT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
• Education Center . . . . . . . . 24
SCUBA CLASSES
PAGE 10
ALPHA WARRIOR
PAGE 12
AIR FORCE MARATHON
CHILDHOOD + YOUTH 25 • CDC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
FEATURES:
PAGE 15
• School Liaison . . . . . . . . . . . 27
JUNIOR GOLF LEAGUE
PAGE 17
ON THE COVER:
With sugar-white sands and emerald-green waters, the beaches of Northwest Florida are some of the most beautiful in the world. Enjoy them yourself with exclusive access at the Eglin Beach Park!
MONTH OF THE MILITARY CHILD PAGE 26 WORD SEARCH
PAGE 28
Enjoy EglinLife is a publication of the 96th Force Support Squadron (FSS). Contents of Enjoy EglinLife are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. government, the Department of Defense, the Department of the Air Force, or the Eglin AFB Public Affairs Office. Design and content originate with the 96 FSS Marketing & Publicity Office. Information contained herein and online at eglinlife.com may be subject to change without notice. No federal endorsement of sponsors intended. Questions or Comments? Call 96 FSS Marketing: 850-882-1482
——————— LEADERSHIP & MARKETING ——––———————— KENNETH L. BLACK, Colonel, USAF | Commander, 96th Mission Support Group HILLARY P. HEDBERG, Lt Col, USAF | Commander, 96th Force Support Squadron
————
SCOTT A. CAIN, Brigadier General, USAF | Commander, 96th Test Wing
DEBORAH J. GRIFFIN | Marketing Director, 96th Force Support Squadron JOSHUA BAUSCH | Magazine Lead & Webmaster
MONICA HERRERA | Sponsorship & Advertising
NATALIE DOZIER | Writer & Publicist
JOE SMALLEY | Design Team & Photography
BETSY BONDI | Design Team
TIM WOODRUM | Photography & Distribution
3
The health and safety of our customers and community is our utmost priority
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect our world, the 96th Force Support Squadron is working to provide Team Eglin and its families with increased access to safe recreational activities and essential on-base services by keeping open as many of our facilities as possible.
FOR UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION ON FACILITY HOURS AND REDUCTIONS IN SERVICES: Visit EglinLife.com – OR – Call Our Facilities (See Page 30) • • • • • • •
When Visiting FSS Facilities, Please Remember to WEAR A FACE MASK – AND – PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING in compliance with current Air Force instructions for all individuals on AF installations.
— Work Safe. Play Safe. Stay Safe. — 4
MONDAYS
PANINI DAY ESM MEAL CARDS ACCEPTED
TUESDAYS
MEXICAN FIESTA
WEDNESDAYS
THURSDAYS
FRIDAYS
TASTE SOUTHERN CHEF'S OF ITALY BBQ CHOICE
850-882-4672 • BLDG 825
IN FRONT OF THE FITNESS CENTER
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RECREATION + FITNESS BEACH PARK ••• eglinlife.com/beach
Located on Okaloosa Island, the Eglin Beach Park offers Gulf beach access exclusively to DoD ID cardholders and their guests.
FAMILY CAMPGROUNDS ••• eglinlife.com/famcamp
Eglin's Family Campgrounds (FAMCAMPs) provide RV and tent site accommodations in two scenic locations, Camp Robbins and Postl Point.
FITNESS & SPORTS ••• eglinlife.com/fitness (Check for reduced services)
Eglin's Fitness Program welcomes you to workout at multiple locations across base, including the Main Fitness Center and Field House on Eglin's east side and the Lightning Fitness Center near the 33rd Fighter Wing. The Fitness Centers also host group classes, run events, sports leagues, tournaments and more.
GOLF COURSE ••• eglinlife.com/golf
The award-winning Eglin Golf Course is located in Niceville, offering 36 holes of championship play across two challenging courses. The course is open year-round for DoD ID cardholders and their sponsored guests.
OUTDOOR RECREATION CENTER ••• eglinlife.com/outdoorrec Eglin's Outdoor Recreation Center at Postl Point provides rental equipment, adventure opportunites and more. Watercraft rentals and storage, thrillseeker excursions and instructional clinics are all a part of what makes Eglin ODR your one-stop shop for great fun in the great outdoors! POOL ••• eglinlife.com/pool The Eglin Pool on the east side of base opens seasonally for all personnel and families to enjoy FREE (noninstructed) swimming. SPECIALTY CLUBS:
• Eglin's Sand & Spur Riding Club (eglinlife.com/sandandspur) offers boarding for privately owned horses within the wooded surroundings off Memorial Trail, just east of the Eglin Commissary and Exchange.
• Eglin Yacht Club and Dive Flight (eglinlife.com/yachtanddive) host social excursions for boating and SCUBA diving enthusiasts.
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EGLIN
BEACH PARK
OPENS APRIL 16
Enjoy the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico from the sugar-white sands of Okaloosa Island, with access exclusive to DoD personnel and their guests, only at the Eglin Beach Park!
2021 BEACH PARK SEASON SCHEDULE: • APRIL 16 - MAY 23 . . . . . . . FRI-SUN, 10 AM - 5 PM • MAY 28 - SEP 6 . . . . . . . . . . . 7 DAYS A WEEK, 10 AM - 7 PM • SEP 7 - OCT 31 . . . . . . . . . . . . FRI-SUN, 10 AM - 5 PM Parking fee is $5 per vehicle, per day. Valid ID required for entry. Pavilions are available for reservation by calling 850-882-1243 Dates/times are subject to change. For updates visit www.eglinlife.com/beach
EGLIN BASE
SWIMMING SET TO POOL OPEN MAY 15 To stay updated on the Pool's 2021 swim season, including daily hours for Lap Swimming and Open Swimming, visit online at
www.eglinlife.com/pool
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RecOn events are open exclusively to Active Duty & Reserve Military Personnel (All Branches) assigned to Eglin AFB and their family members
Zip Line Trip Sat, April 3 | 8:30 am
Soar across scenic landscapes, through beautiful forests and over the Blackwater River at Adventures Unlimited in Milton. $25 per person. Bring water, insect repellent, sunscreen, lunch and athletic or hiking shoes (no open-toed). Weight limit is between 70 and 250 lbs.
Deep Sea Fishing
Indoor Bouldering
Enjoy offshore fishing in the Gulf of Mexico aboard the "Sweet Jody" party charter. $30 per person includes tackle, bait, poles, instruction, bottled water and snacks. Catches are filleted, bagged and put on ice for your trip home.
Visit Rock Out Climbing Gym, a premier indoor bouldering facility in Destin. This two-hour scheduled event costs $10 per person. Minimum age is 13. All participants are encouraged to wear athletic clothing.
Sat, April 10 | 8:30 am
Sun, April 18 | 10 am
Sailing Experience
SCUBA Charter
Climb aboard for a hands-on beginners course in sailing. Gain knowledge of terminology, boat handling skills and safety. $25 per person. Minimum age is 14. Wear a rain jacket and white bottom/soft-sole shoes (no open-toed.)
Open Water Certified (and above) eligible participants are invited for a day of diving in the Gulf. $15 per person. Bring your own gear, or rent gear for an additional $60. Trip is dependent on weather and sea conditions.
Sat, May 1 | 11 am - 2 pm or 2:30 - 5:30 pm
Wakeboard & Waterski Trip Sat, May 15 | 8:30 am
Find your thrill on the freshwater, man-made tournament lakes of Pickos Waterski School in Santa Rosa Beach. All skill levels welcome. $10 per person.
Sunset Airboat Tour Fri, May 28 | Time TBA
Sun, May 9 | 7:30 am
Surf Lessons Sat, May 22 | 1 pm
Shred the gnar with Ride On Surf School in Destin. This two-hour clinic includes instructional time and practice time on the waves. $15 per person, includes equipment. Minimum age is 8.
Skim and slide across marshes, creeks and bays with Wild Thang Airboat Tours. See Florida's wildlife in its natural habitat on this scenic one-hour ride. $15 per person.
GN UP at ation: Eglin Outdoor Recre Space is limited. SI
850-882-5058 c orre
eglinlife.com/outdo 8
DOG
OBEDIENCE • CLASS
Postl Point
UPCOMING SESSIONS:
• April 6 – May 4 : Tuesdays, 5 pm – 6 pm • May 19 – June 16 : Wednesdays, 5 pm – 6 pm Basic Dog Obedience Classes hosted by Eglin Outdoor Recreation are specialized for pups over four months of age or adult dogs who have had no previous training. Your canine companion will learn basic obedience commands and good doggy manners, and individual behavioral problems such as excessive barking and jumping will be addressed. Sessions last 5 weeks with classes held weekly for a maximum of 10 dogs. First class meetings are for owners only — no dogs, please! Cost for each 5-week course is $75. Dogs must be current on all vaccinations, including kennel cough; owners are asked to bring their dog's shot record to the first class. Register and pick up additional class information at the Eglin Outdoor Recreation Center: 850-882-5058
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Open Water Diver April 3 • $350 Advanced Open Water April 17 • $250 Rescue Diver April 24 • $275 Open Water Diver May 1 • $350 Advanced Open Water May 15 • $250
Open Water Diver June 5 • $350 Advanced Open Water June 19 • $250 Rescue Diver June 26 • $275 Open Water Diver July 3 • $350 Advanced Open Water July 17 • $250
Open Water Diver Aug 7 • $350 Advanced Open Water Aug 21 • $250 Rescue Diver Aug 28 • $275 Open Water Diver Sep 4 • $350 Advanced Open Water Sep 18 • $250
& GAUTHIER
MARK CATHERINE WE HELP VETERANS
& their families
BUY AND SELL
REAL ESTATE 850.974.3308 • 561.310.6946 MARK.GAUTHIER@ERA-AMERICAN.COM
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Paid ad. No federal endorsement of advertisers intended.
Special Thanks to Title Sponsor
Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport for their sponsorship of these ODR events!
No federal endorsement of sponsors intended
Kayak Clinic
Sunday, April 4 | 1 pm Get out on the water with Eglin Outdoor Recreation for an introductory Kayak Clinic at Postl Point! Learn how to use a sit-on-top kayak with the fundamentals of boat control, proper paddling apparel, potential hazards and simple rescues. Students will be able to practice maneuvering on flat water using entrylevel paddling skills. Cost is $20 per person and includes instruction and kayak rental. Participation is open to all base personnel and their guests, ages 8 and up. Class size is limited; contact Outdoor Rec to sign up. 850-882-5058
Laser Tag
Saturday, April 17 | 1 pm Eglin Outdoor Recreation invites you to team up and battle it out with an exciting game of Laser Tag! Experience complete outdoor gameplay at Postl Point using the all-in-one Barracuda lasertag unit. Built-in options allow players to build their own games and customized player names, view game stats, enable teams, respawn, set time and ammo and so much more. Cost is $15 per person. Participation is open to all base personnel and registered guests. Minimum player age is 6 years old. Call or visit Outdoor Rec to register. 850-882-5058
Log Rolling 101 Sunday, May 2 | 1 pm
Eglin Outdoor Recreation is excited to present Log Rolling 101 classes! Log rolling is a sport in which two contestants stand on a floating log and try to knock each other off by spinning it with their feet. Outdoor Rec will be using
Key Logs, a 65-pound synthetic log that floats, rotates and reacts just like a traditional cedar wood log when filled with water. The one-hour course will include instruction, competition and free rolling and will cover the fundamentals, rules, and history of the sport. The class costs $15 with snacks, water and beverages provided. Participants should bring dry fit clothes, shoes that can get wet, water bottle, change of clothes, towel, hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. The class will meet at Postl Point. Call or visit Outdoor Rec to sign up. 850-882-5058
Paddle Board Clinic Sunday, May 16 | 1 pm
Get out on the water with Eglin Outdoor Recreation for an introductory Paddle Board Clinic at Postl Point. Outdoor Rec will cover equipment, various paddling strokes and safety procedures during one hour of instruction and one hour of free paddle time. Cost is $20 per person and includes board and paddle rental. Participation is open to all base personnel and their guests, ages 8 and up. Class size is limited; contact Outdoor Rec to sign up. 850-882-5058
Night SUP Glow Tour Sunday, May 30 | 7 pm
Calling all paddleboarders — you don't want to miss Night SUP Glow Tours, an after-hours paddle excursion on the water off Postl Point! Paddleboards are equipped with high-powered waterproof LED lights for a dazzling watercraft adventure like no other. The trip is intended for experienced paddle boarders and is open to all base personnel and their registered guests. Cost is $20 per person and includes paddleboard and paddle, lights, personal flotation device and whistle. Participants meet for departure at Postl Point and are encouraged to bring bottled water, swimsuit, towel, a headlamp/flashlight and a change of clothes. Sign up with Outdoor Rec. 850-882-5058
Single Airman Program Initiative (SAPI) events are open to Active Duty and Reserve Component officers or enlisted members who are without a spouse, plus one guest.
SAPI Foilboarding Saturday, April 24 | 10 am
Eglin Outdoor Rec and XL Kites invite eligible SAPI personnel to Postl Point for a 45-minute experience aboard a foilboard—a surfboard with a hydrofoil that extends below the board into the water, allowing the board to leave the water's surface at various speeds. Participants are encouraged to bring water, sunglasses, sunscreen and a towel.
SAPI Jet Ski Tour
Saturday, May 29 | 8:30 am Join Eglin Outdoor Rec and Xtreme H2O on a jet skiing adventure along Florida's Gulf Coast. Pilot your own vessel to explore the waterways and experience local wildlife on some of the world's most beautiful emerald green waters. Participants are asked to bring a photo ID (not a CAC), a FL Boaters License (temporary licenses are available for $3 that day), plus bottled water, sunscreen, a towel and a change of clothes.
SIGN UP with EGLIN OUTDOOR REC $25/Person | Space is Limited
850-882-5058
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POC: SSgt West / A1C Wicker
| Open to All DoD Personnel & Family Members 18+
Bunny Hop Virtual 5K
Virtual Jump Rope Competition
Hop to it - join the Eglin Fitness Center's Bunny Hop Virtual 5K! All with base access are invited to sign up with the Main Fitness Center and submit times to the Eglin Fitness Center Facebook page's post. Participants without access to Facebook may submit times to joshua.huerta@us.af.mil. Prizes will be awarded to the top three male and female finishers! 850-882-6223
Jump in and join the Eglin Fitness Center's Virtual Jump Rope Competition! All with base access are invited to compete in two categories: endurance and creativity. For the endurance category, participants will record themselves jumping rope while running a stopwatch to track their time. For the creativity category, participants will record themselves jumping rope (up to five minutes) with their own fun and creative twists! Videos can be submitted to the Fitness Center's Facebook page between Monday, April 12 and Friday, April 16 at 11:59 p.m. CST. The endurance participant with the best time and the creativity participant with the most likes on Facebook will each win a prize! Contact SSgt Grace with any questions. 850-882-6223
April 1 - 6 | Run Anywhere!
April 12 - 16 | Two Ways to Compete!
EGLIN'S STRONGEST COMPETITION Tuesday, April 13 : Weigh-In Begins 12 pm Saturday, April 17 : Weigh-In Begins 9 am
Where do you stack among Eglin's strongest? Put your muscles to the test at the annual Eglin's Strongest Competition, being held at the Fitness Pavilion. Participants in this challenging “push/pull” event must register in their age divisions and in one of 10 weight classes for both male and female. Participation is open to all base personnel and family members (ages 18+) and will take place across two days of competition. Registration closes Friday, April 9. All participants must complete a waiver upon registering. Contact the Fitness Center for more info: 850-882-6223
CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT April 20 - 23 | Register by Friday, April 16
The Eglin Fitness Center is hosting a single-elimination, two-player Cornhole Tournament! Registration is free and open to all with base access, and participants must sign up in teams of two by Friday, April 16. Teams will compete April 20-22 at the main Fitness Center parking lot, and the top two teams from each day (six total) will move forward and compete for the tournament prize on Friday, April 23. Play will begin at 4:30 p.m. on all four days of competition. Contact SrA Garrou and A1C Wilson with any questions, and call or stop by the Main Fitness Center to register. 850-882-6223
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FITNESS CLASSES APRIL / MAY 2021 BACK 2 BASICS WEEKDAYS 7am & 1 pm
Main Fitness Center
FIT CAMP
BEGINS APRIL 6
TUES & THUR 8am Pavilion
NO CLASS APRIL 20
TAI CHI
TUES & THUR 12pm Postl Point
HITT 2.0
MON, WED, FRI 12pm Pavilion
RUN CLUB BEGINS MAY 3
MON, WED, FRI 7:30am Field House
GO ONLINE TO
EGLINLIFE.COM/FITNESS TO DOWNLOAD THE FULL CALENDAR OF FITNESS CLASSES & EVENTS
Dates and times may be subject to change without notice
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MORE BOOT CAMP APRIL 27
Single-Elimination Tennis Tournament Wednesday, April 28 Register by April 23
The Eglin Fitness Center invites all contenders to take a swing at the Single-Elimination Tennis Tournament! All with base access are welcome to register by Friday, April 23 and compete at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, April 28 at the tennis court next to the Thrift Shop. Bring your best game — the winner will earn a prize! Contact SSgt West and A1C WIlson with any questions, and call or stop by the main Fitness Center to register. 850-882-6223
Disc Golf Competition
April 26 & 29 | Register by April 22 Are you the best disc golfer at Eglin? Claim your title with the Fitness Center's Disc Golf Competition! All with base access are invited to register by Thursday, April 22 and compete on either Monday, April 26 or Thursday, April 29 at the Postl Point disc golf course. The competition will start at 3:30 p.m. on both days. The participant with the lowest number of strokes will be announced after the final day of play and will win a prize! Contact A1C Cann with any questions, and stop by the main Fitness Center to register. 850-882-6223
Home Run Derby
April 27 & 29 | Register by April 23 The Eglin Fitness Center invites you to release your inner Babe Ruth and showcase your batting skills at the Home Run Derby!
Registration is open to all with base access until Friday, April 23, and the competition will take place Tuesday, April 27 and Thursday, April 29 at the softball field near the Fitness Field House. Participants will take turns hitting as many home runs as they can within ten pitches. The winner will be announced after the final day of play and will be awarded a prize! Contact SrA Rhodes with any questions, and call or stop by the main Fitness Center to register. 850-882-6223
Basketball Shootaround The Eglin Fitness Center now offers reservations for basketball hoops! Patrons are allowed to make one-hour reservations during operating hours for one of five available hoops to shoot by themselves. Walk-ins will be accepted depending on availability, so reservations are recommended. COVID-19 protocols will be enforced: patrons are not allowed to share equipment or play with others, and masks must be worn when not actively playing. Stop by or call the front desk at 850-882-6223 to make a reservation.
Physical Training Center Reservations The Eglin Fitness Center is now accepting reservations for units to utilize the Physical Training Center (Bldg 720) for PT. Units may call or visit the Main Fitness Center to reserve Bldg 720 for one-hour blocks during normal operating hours. Staff members will unlock the facility for each reservation, and COVID-19 protocols will be enforced. Contact the Fitness Center for more information. 850-882-6223
UPCOMING FITNESS EVENTS:
SOCCER QUARTERBACK AMPHIBIAN SHOOTOUT CHALLENGE RACE
APRIL 30
MAY 21
MAY 28
AIR & SPACE CHALLENGE
NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS - Marathon & Half Marathon -
SEPTEMBER 16-19, 2021 WRIGHT-PATTERSON AFB DAYTON, OH
Open to Active Duty & Reserve Air Force &Space Force Members
For more information contact
AFSVA.FitnessSports@us.af.mil www.usafmarathon.com
2019 AETC Athlete SrA Cody Marett
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Get Golf Ready! — In One Day
Saturday, April 10 | 9 am - 2:30 pm Saturday, May 8 | 9 am - 2:30 pm Develop your golf skills in less than a day! The Eglin Golf Course presents "Get Golf Ready!"—a Saturday golf lesson for beginners or those who need a refresher. "Get Golf Ready!" is a nationwide initiative by the USGA, PGA, PGA Tour and LPGA to engage golfers, and the lessons are taught by Eglin's LPGA Professional. Topics of instruction include putting and chipping, using the right clubs, golf course etiquette, and the rules of the game. Each lesson can accommodate up to six participants, and the cost is $70 per person. Payment is due upon registration. Call or visit the Pro Shop for more information or to sign up. 850-882-2949
Family Fun Golf
Sundays | Discounts Begin at 2 pm It's family fun on the Falcon Course every Sunday afternoon starting at 2 p.m.! An adult accompanied by a child age 8 to 17 pays HALF-PRICE green fees, and the accompanying child plays for FREE. Golf cart and equipment rentals are available at regular price. The Pro Shop has balls, tees, sunscreen, hats, and everything needed to enjoy your afternoon together. Children must be 8 years or older to go on the Golf Course. A maximum of 2 persons per golf cart and 2 golf carts per group is allowed. Enjoy the most forward tees (green) to make playing as a family easier and more enjoyable. 850-882-2949
AIR FORCE NATIONAL GOLF DAY : THURSDAY, MAY 6 16
PGA JUNIOR GOLF LEAGUE Season Begins Tuesday, June 1
— Register Now! —
Eglin Golf Course is hosting an in-house PGA Junior League! This eight-week program shifts perception of the sport and embodies three values: safety, care and organization. Eglin Golf will host four teams of up to ten participants each, ages 7-13. The cost is $125 per person and covers all play, team shirts and an end-of-season social. The season begins Tuesday, June 1, and matches will be played once a week on Tuesdays. Several optional practices will be held before the season begins. Parents may register their kids and get more information online at www.pgajrleague.com, or call 850-882-2949 ALSO COMING IN JUNE: Future Stars Kids Golf Program — Stay Tuned for More Info from the Eglin Golf Course —
www.eglinlife.com/golf
EGLIN GOLF APP GET THE
FOR YOUR SMARTPHONE GPS YARDAGE • BOOK TEE TIMES IN-APP REWARDS • AND MORE!
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ENRICHMENT + TRAVEL
AERO CLUB •• • eglinlife.com/aeroclub The Eglin Aero Club is a FAA-approved flight school, offering pilot training and certification courses for private and commercial ratings, plus the aircraft and everything else you need to get your dreams of flying off the ground! AIRMAN & FAMILY READINESS CENTER ••• eglinlife.com/afrc The Eglin A&FRC is Team Eglin's hub for life-enhancing classes, workshops and resources to help support every member's growth and readiness in all aspects of life — personal, professional, and everything inbetween. AUTO HOBBY SHOP ••• eglinlife.com/autoshop Whether it's repairs, maintenance or a do-it-yourself project, the Eglin Auto Hobby Shop has you and your vehicle covered with its staff of knowledgeable mechanics, plus quality tools and equipment in a state-of-the-art facility. EDUCATION CENTER ••• eglinlife.com/education Eglin's Education Center is your connection to colleges and universities, tuition assistance and benefits, degree programs, testing and much more. Whatever your goals, you can start "Accessing Higher Education" today! EGLIN ITT ••• eglinlife.com/itt Eglin's Information, Tickets & Travel (ITT) office is a full-service leisure travel agency, offering the hottest deals and discounts on vacation destinations, theme park tickets, accommodations, cruises, airfare, local attractions and more. Around the corner or around the world, ITT can get you there! LIBRARY ••• eglinlife.com/library
The Eglin Library is your gateway to an entire universe of online databases and digital literature. E-books, audiobooks, digital reader devices, and so much more — all at your fingertips and always FREE!
LODGING ••• eglinlife.com/lodging Are you visiting Eglin or expecting company? Eglin Inns hosts a wide variety of on-base lodging quarters available to active and retired military members, DOD civilians, and family and friends. 18
MONDAY
MAY 31 •
9 AM – 3:30 PM
20-minute Plane Rides • $30 per Person (up to 3 per Flight) • By Reservation Only Sign-up opens Saturday, May 1. Available flight times are limited. Cancellations must be made 24 hours prior to event date.
BLDG 898 • 850-882-5148 • eglinlife.com/aeroclub • eglinaeroclub.com
EGLIN AUTO HOBBY SHOP
NOW SUNDAYS! PULL IN for Do-It-Yourself Projects OR Full-Service Tune-Ups & Repairs by Our Professional Mechanics
Tue-Fri: 10 AM – 6 PM • Sat-Sun: 8 AM – 5 PM 850-882-2484 • BLDG 721 (Behind Thrift Store) • eglinlife.com/autoshop
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eglinlife.com/itt
Eglin ITT is your perfect connection to Leisure Travel Suppliers SUPPORTING THE U.S. MILITARY COMMUNITY:
Disney Legoland Royal Caribbean International
Universal Carnival Cruise Line Celebrity Cruises
Princess Cruises
AmaWaterways
MSC Cruises
Beaches Resorts
Sandals Resorts
Delta Vacations
To start planning your next big getaway
Visit the Eglin ITT Office!
Bldg 1760 in front of the Eglin Commissary
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Enjoy the spacious halls of
America’s Largest Home®
and the 8,000-acre backyard. In addition, explore all Biltmore offers, such as shopping, dining, and relaxing at Antler Hill Village & Winery
Purchase Tickets Online at
www.Biltmore.com/military — AND —
Save $10 with Promo Code:
afctp101
ALWAYS FUN! ALWAYS FREE! BLDG 843 Eglin Library Celebrates Month of the Military Child April 1 - 30 The Library is making big plans for Month of the Military Child! April will feature plenty of fun activities with lots of goodies given away. Kids can stop by the Library and get an "I'm A Military Child" dog tag as well as a coloring book provided by Fisher House and the School Liaison Officer (while supplies last). Watch for more details at www.EglinLibrary.com and on the Library’s Facebook and Instagram pages.
Children's Art Show April 5 - 30 | Get Creative!
Eglin Life Marketing is partnering with the Library in this annual celebration. We’ve created a specially designed coloring sheet; all you have to do is complete and submit it for display at the Library. The coloring sheet will be available during April at the Library and can be printed from EglinLife.com. Kids who turn in an entry will receive a goody bag with treats and art supplies (while supplies last). Art will be on display throughout the month at the Library. 850-882-9308
Virtual Book Club
Mission: Code Breaker
"Daisy Jones and the Six" by Taylor Jenkins Reid Join the Eglin Library for its Virtual Book Club! Each month's selection is available to read on the Libby app. Email eglinlibrary@gmail.com to get the Zoom link. 850-882-9308
Crack the code with the Eglin Library! Beginning May 3, pick up your mission packet. After you complete the secret operation, come back to the Library by Friday, May 21 to receive your reward. This FREE activity is designed for ages 6 and up, and no sign-up is required. Contact the Library for more information. 850-882-9308
Monday, April 19 | 4:30-5:30 pm
May 3 - 21 | 9 am - 4 pm
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AIRMAN & FAMILY
READINESS CENTER eglinlife.com/afrc
Anger Management Sessions Tuesdays, April 6-27 | 2-4 pm
Eglin's Family Advocacy and the Airman & Family Readiness Center want to help you with their new Anger Management Sessions. The four sessions are designed to define anger, identify personal triggers and problematic beliefs, and develop an individualized angermanagement plan. Sessions are on Tuesdays from 2 to 4 p.m. in Bldg. 2578 on the corner of Gaffney Road and Hatchee Road. This program is FREE, but you must register ahead of time. Call Family Advocacy at 850-883-8616 to request more information or register.
Virtual Bundles for Babies
Thursday, April 15 | 10-11:30 am Eglin's Airman & Family Readiness Center invites expectant parents from all branches of service to a virtual "Bundles for Babies" workshop on select Wednesdays via ZoomGov. New and expecting parents will receive valuable information from the New Parent Support Program, child care programs, Tricare, and Budgeting for Baby. This workshop satisfies the mandatory "Birth of First Child" financial touchpoint requirement. Please call the A&FRC to register. 850-882-9060
Heart Link
Tuesday, May 4 | 9:30 am - 2:30 pm The Airman & Family Readiness Center would like to introduce all of Eglin's military spouses to Heart Link—a top-notch program designed to provide spouses with a better understanding of the military way of life, with concentration on the Eglin mission, military customs, traditions, protocol, and knowledge of available resources and services. All spouses are invited to attend
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FREE CNA Exam Prep Course April 5 - 9 | 8 am - 5 pm
Attention, all Air Force Active Duty spouses! Are you interested in starting a career in the medical field in patient care? The Eglin Airman & Family Readiness Center is offering two FREE Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) classes to help you prepare for the CNA exam! Classes are held March 8-12 and April 5-9 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Niceville campus of the Northwest Florida State College. For more information, Eglin Spouses may contact Ms. Gabriela Leysath at 850-882-9060
this fun-filled orientation; check with the A&FRC to see if upcoming meetings will be held in person or virtually via ZoomGov. Call for more information or to register. 850-882-9060
Navigating the Divorce Process Tuesday, May 11 10:30 am-12:30 pm
Going through a divorce can be difficult. Let the Eglin Airman & Family Readiness Center help you navigate through the process and understand the financial impacts on your life with this workshop, brought to you in partnership with the Eglin Legal Office. Call for more information or to register. 850-882-9060
Ten Steps to a Federal Job
Second Tuesday Each Month 1-3:30 pm Applying for a federal job may seem overwhelming at times, but the employment experts at Eglin's Airman & Family Readiness Center are here to assist! The official job site for Federal Government is USAJobs.gov, a onestop source for federal job announcements, employment information, and application. Learn how to navigate the site, manage your account, and analyze job announcements in this helpful class. Please call the A&FRC to register. 850-882-9060
Grief & Loss Support Group
Key Spouses are appointed by their Commander, work closely with their First Sergeant and serve as an essential resource to families in their unit.
Second Tuesday Each Month | 12 pm
The Eglin Airman & Family Readiness Center's Grief & Loss Support Group is a valuable resource for those who have experienced loss such as death, divorce, relationship issues, illness or other major life changes. The emotions experienced during these events can be overwhelming, but a support group can be a helpful tool in processing and overcoming them. This support group meets virtually via ZoomGov and provides a medium for peers to share information and resources, connect through shared emotions and utilize an outlet for disclosure without judgment. Contact the A&FRC to learn more and to register. 850-882-9060
Hearts Apart Online Forum Third Tuesday Each Month | 10 am
Are you the family member of a deployed loved one? Eglin's Airman & Family Readiness Center would like to cordially invite you to the Hearts Apart Program Online Forum! This is a monthly virtual meeting for deployed families to engage directly with our Readiness NCO's to discuss issues and share resources on how we can ease the hardship of being separated from your loved one. We also aim to bring our deployed family community together to strengthen our resiliency and bonds. If interested, please email Eglin.EglinAirmanFamilyReadinessCenter@us.af.mil to register and receive your ZoomGov login instructions. 850-882-9060 Dates and times are subject to change without notice.
Eglin's A&FRC provides all Key Spouse training . . . Initial Training: • Thu, Aug 19 | 9:30 am-1:30 pm • Thu, Nov 4 | 9:30 am-1:30 pm
Initial Mentor Training: • Thu, Aug 19 | 2-2:30 pm • Thu, Nov 4 | 2-2:30 pm
Virtual SAPR / Suicide Awareness Training: • Tue, Apr 20 | 10 am-12 pm • Tue, Aug 24 | 10 am-12 pm • Tue, Oct 19 | 10 am-12 pm
Virtual Refresher Training: • Thu, Apr 22 | 10 am-12 pm • Thu, Aug 26 | 10 am-12 pm • Thu, Nov 2 | 10 am-12 pm
Quarterly Training: • Thu, May 27 | 11 am-1 pm • Thu, July 15 | 4:30-6 pm • Wed, Nov 10 | 11 am-1 pm
Check with the A&FRC to find out if upcoming sessions will be held inperson, or virtually via ZoomGov.
Interested in becoming a Key Spouse?
Email: suzette.ellington@us.af.mil | Call: 850-882-9060
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CHILDHOOD + YOUTH CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTERS ••• eglinlife.com/cdc
(Due to base restrictions, check for reduced services) Parents of children from 6 weeks to 5 years of age can receive comprehensive child care services at one of Eglin's two Child Development Center (CDC) locations. Full day care and hourly drop-in care (on a space-available basis) are provided by a compassionate staff of certified professionals.
FAMILY CHILD CARE ••• eglinlife.com/fcc The Eglin Family Child Care (FCC) office is a parent's network for connecting with on-base and affiliated off-base child care providers operating from their homes — a high-quality alternative to center-based care. All FCC providers are licensed and certified by not only the State of Florida but also Eglin leadership, and must operate by Air Force standards. SCHOOL AGE CARE ••• eglinlife.com/schoolage
(Due to base restrictions, check for reduced services) Before and after school programs — as well as full-day camps and activities during spring, summer, and winter breaks — are all provided for children ages 5-12 at Eglin's School Age Care (SAC) facility. With a goal to develop interests, enhance life skills, encourage positivity and promote self-worth, SAC provides a safe, nurturing, and age-appropriate environment for youngsters.
SCHOOL LIAISON ••• eglinlife.com/slo The mission of Eglin's School Liason office (SLO) is to eliminate barriers and build bridges for the academic success of military connected children, grades K-12. Through networks and partnerships with local and global communities, the SLO works to assist Active Duty parents with education matters that are unique to their children and the military lifestyle. eglinlife.com/slo YOUTH CENTER ••• eglinlife.com/youth
(Due to base restrictions, check for reduced services) The Eglin Youth Center goes above and beyond to provide a "Positive Place For Kids!" Youth up to age 18 partake in year-round activities that promote character and leadership development, life skills, education, arts, fitness and sports — all in a safe, supervised environment.
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APRIL IS MONTH OF THE
GIVE PARENTS A BREAK The Eglin Child Development Center offers a special time for parents to catch their breath with its Give Parents a Break program (A&FRC: 850-882-9060). Families with respite vouchers from the Air Force Aid Society are eligible to sign up their children, ages 6 weeks to 12 years, on a space-available basis. Activities and a meal will be provided. Dates and times for 2021 are as follows: • Saturday, April 17 | 5 pm - 10 pm • Saturday, May 22 | 11 am - 4 pm • Saturday, June 26 | 5 pm - 10 pm • Saturday, July 24 | 11 am - 4 pm • Saturday, August 28 | 5 pm - 10 pm
MILITARY CHILD “PURPLE UP” ALL MONTH
MILITARY
Youth
serve too
• Saturday, October 23 | 5 pm - 10 pm • Saturday, November 20 | 11 am - 4 pm Reservations must be made by COB on the Thursday before the event. All children must be registered and have a current shot record on file. No outside food or drink will be allowed with the exception of bottles for infants. Parents must advise staff of any allergies and/ or special needs during registration. Call 850-882-5519 to request more info or make a reservation
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MOMC was first established in 1986 by Defense Secretary Casper Weinberger
There are currently 1.2 million children of active duty members. Approximately 2 million children have experienced a parent’s deployment since 9-11-01
• Saturday, September 25 | 11 am - 4 pm
• Saturday, December 11 | 5 pm - 10 pm
Honoring our Military Children for the sacrifices they make each and every day living the military lifestyle
LET’S CELEBRATE
Military Kids together by wearing purple for the month of April. Purple highlights all branches of service.
www.EglinLife.com/slo
If you'd like to volunteer or mentor and make a positive impact in a military child's life, contact
TEAM EGLIN'S SCHOOL LIAISON
Elaine LaJeunesse:
850-882-4319
HIGHLIGHTING:
TEAM EGLIN'S SCHOOL LIAISON OFFICER By Natalie Dozier 96 FSS Marketing
Elaine LaJeunesse, Team Eglin’s
School Liaison Officer (SLO) who services total force members, has a clear passion for ensuring that military kids get the best possible education. As the SLO, she helps each military family that comes through Eglin in finding the right schools and programs to meet the family’s educational needs. LaJeunesse is the vital communication and support link between installation leadership, military families, schools and surrounding communities. She advocates, advises and promotes communication between local K-12 schools in Okaloosa, Walton, Santa Rosa, Escambia and Bay counties and the families she assists. “I promote parental involvement in their children’s education,” she said, “and I identify barriers to academic success and develop solutions, in partnership with local schools and the militaryconnected families, to overcome the obstacles and support successful educations and school transitions.” LaJeunesse encourages all of her families to “contact your SLO before you go!” Once an
incoming family connects with a sponsor, she recommends researching local schools and requirements by looking at the websites for the Florida Department of Education, the respective school district and the schools within that district. She emphasizes the importance of reviewing the accountability and academic grades for potential schools. In addition to informing families about public school options, she assists families in learning about private, home and other available schooling options. LaJeunesse recommends that parents familiarize themselves with the Military Interstate Children’s Compact Commission (MIC3). MIC3 was created to remove barriers to educational success that are imposed by the frequent moves and deployments that military families experience. The focus is on enrollment, placement, attendance, eligibility and graduation, and the goal is to make transitions between states as smooth as possible. When it’s time to leave Eglin, she introduces outgoing families to one of 83 other SLOs in the Air Force or to a SLO in a sister service. She ensures that the military families she assists
are connected and cared for throughout their time in service by providing a “warm hand-off” to wherever the families are going. “Military kids bring a diversity of experience and knowledge to their social environments. Empowered by their resiliency, courage and adaptability, these kids overcome adversity and positively impact their surroundings,” she said. “Our kids serve, too!” Throughout April, schools and organizations on and off base celebrate “Month of the Military Child” with special activities, programs and events that highlight the sacrifices and contributions made by military kids around the world. It’s something LaJeunesse and 96 Test Wing leadership care deeply about—recognizing and honoring the service of militaryconnected kids. For more information or assistance, LaJeunesse encourages families to reach out to her directly. The SLO office is located in Suite 252 (2nd floor) of Bldg 210 on Van Matre Avenue. To set up an appointment, please call 850-882-4319 or email elaine.lajeunesse@us.af.mil.
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CAN YOU FIND EVERY WORD? T B H X Y Y P E M V O G K B R 28
N R Q P H D P V T R G X X U L
U N P O C N W H E A A N Q N Z
H W N Z T A F A J F R B I N V
L I R P A C S E R V F O B Y C
Q G W A C T L Z D J A H C I D
E T Z E E L B O R S M J V E T
T G F R Y H Y G R Z I V K B D
G A G B A S K E T O L C V U H
S N E S A X W P D E Y I W C N
U A R O Z O E Z Y S U N D A Y
Look Up, Down, Sideways, Diagonal and Backward!
N Q U S L E Z I X K E S I G L
E X J F P G P Y W U H B D P L
L Q X S C H O C O L A T E H I
W F Z H T X H K N Q P D F C L
APRIL BUNNY BASKET CANDY EGGS HUNT LILLY RABBIT
DECORATE JELLYBEAN FLOWERS FAMILY CHOCOLATE SUNDAY PEEPS HOP
THERE’S SO MUCH MORE TO KNOW...
* EGLIN BASE PERSONNEL: Look for our Weekly Update to arrive at your Global Webmail Address (@us.af.mil) every Wednesday.
CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:
/eglinlife
@eglinlife
@eglinlife
/eglinlife
/eglinlife
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96 FSS FACILITIES
PHONE DIRECTORY
RECREATION + FITNESS
AREA CODE:
850
DINING + CATERING
Beach Park | Okaloosa Island
883-1243
Bayview Event Center
882-4766
Family Campgrounds
883-1243
The Breeze Dining Facility
882-9042
Fitness & Sports: • Main Fitness Center • Field House • Fitness Assessment Cell (FAC) • Lightning Fitness Center | 33FW • Sports & Special Events
Golf Course Snack Bar
882-2949
882-6223 882-6028 882-9260 883-6816 882-4229
Legends Sports Grill
882-4672
The Lift Flight Kitchen
882-3620
Golf Course 882-2949 Marina | Ben's Lake 882-7730 Outdoor Recreation Center 882-5058
CHILDHOOD + YOUTH Child Development Center: • CDC II 883-7425 • CDC III 882-5519
Pool 883-1243
Family Child Care 882-2994
ENRICHMENT + TRAVEL
School Liaison Office
Aero Club 882-5148 Airman & Family Readiness Center
882-9060
Auto Hobby Shop 882-2484 Education Center 882-8141 Information, Tickets & Travel (ITT)
882-5930
Library 882-9308 Lodging 882-8761
Call for Facility Hours or Visit EglinLife.com
School-Age Care 882-8291 882-4319
Youth Center 882-8212
PERSONNEL + SUPPORT Airman & Family Readiness Center
882-9060
Airman Leadership School
882-2550
Civilian Personnel 882-6258 Commercial Sponsorship & Advertising
882-8651
Employment | NAF Human Resources Office
883-3036
Honor Guard 882-2156 Military Personnel Flight 882-2742 Private Organizations | Resource Management
885-6781
Readiness & Mortuary Affairs
882-8084
Training Center 882-8697
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Subscribe to Eglin FSS Mobile Messaging to have news & updates on Eglin events & activities sent directly to your mobile device! ... PLUS Text any of these other KeyWords to 95577 to customize your Mobile Messaging experience: • EglinREC – for news on Eglin’s recreation opportunities. • EglinITT – for news on ticket deals, leisure travel, and lodging. • EglinFIT – for news on Eglin fitness and sports activities. • EglinCDC – for parent alerts from the Child Development Center. • EglinYOUTH – for news on Eglin’s school-age and teen programs. • EglinFOOD – for news on dining, club, and catering opportunities. • EglinSUPPORT – for A&FRC, family, employment, and education news. • EglinID – for updates and alerts from the Eglin DEERS/ID office. Summary Terms & Conditions: Our mobile text messages are intended for subscribers over the age of 13 and are delivered via USA short code 95577 and 76000.You may receive up to 4 message(s) per month for text alerts. Message and data rates may apply. This service is available to persons with text-capable phones subscribing to carriers including AT&T, Verizon Wireless, T-Mobile®, Sprint, Virgin Mobile USA, Cincinnati Bell, Centennial Wireless, Unicel, U.S. Cellular®, and Boost. For help, text HELP to 95577, email webmaster@eglinforcesupport.com, or call +1 850-882-6280. You may stop your mobile subscription at any time by text messaging STOP to short code 95577
EGLIN LIFE WANTS TO HEAR FROM YOU • • • Look for our social media giveaway on Facebook MAY 17-21 when you’ll be invited to share the ways you commemorate the Memorial Day holiday. Random entrants will be selected to receive summer fun and fitness themed prizes.
FB.com / EglinLife
Promotion is in no way sponsored by or associated with Facebook