December 2013 JBLM MWR e-Focus

reindeer dash winter reading program invite santa to your house neon new year’s eve party

a season of giving Gift ideas from Family & MWR Holi-daily deals & discounts Club card savings

holiday

TREe

lighting

Freebies, great deals & chances to win awesome prizes!

Turn to page 16 for the 2nd annual Holi-Daily DealsJBLMmwr.com pull-out section.

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Detailing, Tinting & More!

Tinting starting at $150* Detailing starting at $25* *prices do not include tax

tooeasyautosalon.com

4081 West Way JBLM Lewis Main 253-964-1040 Located ON BASE near the DuPont Gate

At 3.00% 3.00% APY, APY, it’s it’s the the perfect perfect time time to to open open aa At Harborstone BreakFree BreakFree Checking Checking account! account!

Harborstone Harborstone Credit Union makes it easy to earn money. When you meet the Harborstone Credit Union makes it easy to earn money. When you meet the qualifications, a BreakFree Checking account earns a competitive 3.00% APY, qualifications, a BreakFree Checking account earns a competitive 3.00% APY, one of the highest in the nation, on balances up to $20,000. No other financial one of the highest in the nation, on balances up to $20,000. No other financial institution in the country is offering an annual percentage yield this high on institution in the country is offering an annual percentage yield this high on balances of those amounts. balances of those amounts.

Here is how it works: Here is how it works: • Simply make 12 debit card/POS transactions of $3 or more each month.

• Simply make 12 debit card/POS transactions of $3 or more each month.

• Sign into Online Banking once per month.

• Sign into Online Banking once per month.

• Have one direct deposit or automatic ACH withdrawal per month.

• Have one direct deposit or automatic ACH withdrawal per month.

And you’ll never pay another U.S. ATM surcharge fee. Ever. It’s true.

And you’ll never pay another U.S. ATM surcharge fee. Ever. It’s true.

Non‑Harborstone ATM surcharge fees are refunded monthly when Non‑Harborstone ATM surcharge fees are refunded monthly when you meet the qualifications. Harborstone ATMs are already free, so you meet the qualifications. Harborstone ATMs are already free, so we’ve extended this benefit to make BreakFree Checking even better. we’ve extended this benefit to make BreakFree Checking even better.

Harborstone.com Harborstone.com

(253) 584‑2260 or 1‑800‑523‑3641 (253) 584‑2260 or 1‑800‑523‑3641 APY = annual percentage yield. The BreakFree Checking dividend rates are subject to change at any time. Earn a competitive annual percentage yield up to the maximum balance of $20,000. All balances APY annual yield. Theyield.

BreakFree Checking dividend rates are subject to change at anyunder time. the Earnprimary a competitive percentage up to thedirect maximum balance of withdrawal $20,000. Allper balances earn= the basepercentage annual percentage Requires sign‑on to Online Banking one time per month accountannual holder’s member yield number, one deposit or ACH month, earn percentage yield.ofRequires sign‑on OnlinetoBanking one timerates. per month undertransactions the primary must account number, one direct ACH withdrawal per month, andthe 12 base debitannual card/POS transactions $3 or more eachtomonth earn BreakFree Qualifying postholder’s to and member clear by the last business daydeposit of the or qualification month.

Free ATMs and 12 debit card/POS transactions of $3 or more each month to earn BreakFree rates.

Qualifying transactions must post to and clear by the last business day of the qualification month.

Free ATMs nationwide. ATM foreign surcharge fees will be refunded monthly (excludes international ATMs, balance inquiries, and ATM deposit fees). Members not meeting requirements will not earn ATM foreign 2nationwide.

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • December 2013 ATM foreign surcharge fees will be refunded monthly (excludes international ATMs, balance inquiries, and ATM deposit fees).

Members not meeting requirements will not earn ATM foreign surcharge fee refunds. One account per member. $25 minimum opening deposit; no monthly minimum balance required. Federally insured by the NCUA. surcharge fee refunds. One account per member. $25 minimum opening deposit; no monthly minimum balance required. Federally insured by the NCUA.

CONTENTS FOOD & FUN

6–13

FAMILY & THE HOMEFRONT

14–21

ADVENTURES

22–25

FEELIN’ GOOD

26–27

LEARNING & EARNING

28–29

‘Tis the season for holiday fun and gift-giving; order custom desserts; invite Santa to your house or office

Flip for fun with SKIES classes; fun for the community at Holiday Fest; celebrate AFTB’s birthday

After-Christmas sale at the NAC; get out in the snow with ODR trips; Military Appreciation Day at Crystal

It’s not too late to sign up for the Reindeer Dash; JBLM swim meet; get a jump start on New Year’s resolutions!

Get out of debt; Winter Reading Program; top 10 children’s titles; Holiday Open House events at your libraries

Get wrapped up in all kinds of holiday fun — see it all in this issue!

FROM THE COVER Get in the holiday spirit with Family & MWR

Kick off the season with the holiday tree lighting, enjoy breakfast with Santa and go on a snow-filled adventure trip.

JBLMmwr.com

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Another year flew by In just one month, we’ll be ringing in the New Year (see ad below and page 7 for details on a Neon New Year’s Eve party), but before you start making your annual resolutions, spend some time with Family & MWR at these great events.

• McChord Tree Lighting, Monday, Dec. 2, 4 p.m. at the McChord Chapel • Holiday tree lighting, Thursday, Dec. 5 (page 10) • WWE Tribute to the Troops, Wednesday, Dec. 11 (page 8) • Breakfast with Santa, Saturday, Dec. 14 (page 7) Additionally, you can turn to us for planning your holiday parties (page 6), holiday trips (Leisure Travel Services information on page 10 and 25) and festive activities. Invite Santa to your house or office — call the BOSS Team; details on page 10. Bring the kids to the Holiday Fest at Hillside Youth Center Saturday, Dec. 14. Enjoy crafts, games and prizes plus hot chocolate and cider. Details are on page 19.

It’s time for the 2nd annual Holi-daily Deals! Turn to page 16 for the pull-out section that features discounts and freebies for every day in December ... and month-long deals and details about the JBLM golf sale. Take out the section and keep it in your car to make sure you have the day’s deals (and a holiday event rundown) at your fingertips. Plus, we have a gift-giving guide on page 12.

As always, if you have feedback to share, please visit 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 Contributors

Kimberly Rowe Patti Jeffrey

Arnie Norem

Contributing photographers Christopher Gaylord and Emiliano Hernandez Send submissions to kimberly.a.rowe12.naf@mail.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 Family & MWR, 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 fb.com/JBLMFamilyMWR.

GREEN YOUR HOLIDAY! 12 Months of Sustainability Joint Base Lewis-McChord celebrates sustainability all year round. Join us each month as we explore topics related to sustainability and Net Zero.

Recycle your Christmas tree at JBLM Recycling Centers Drop off your tree (real or artificial) at the Lewis Main or McChord Field Recycle Centers (both located by the Commissary and Exchange) Tuesday–Saturday, 0730–1600. Trees will be mulched for use in JBLM landscaping projects. Please no tinsel, flocking or lights. Lights can also be taken to the Recycle Center (off the tree, please). Help us reach our sustainability goal of NET ZERO WASTE! For details, call 253-966-6444 or email usarmy.jblm.imcom.list.dpw-jblmrecycles@mail.mil.

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Like us on Facebook: Facebook.com/SustainableJBLM

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • December 2013

5 gift-wrapping alternatives • Use newspaper. Use the comics or a great photo for added color.

• Reusable cloth bags serve double duty: a great wrapping and a handy shopping bag!

• Maps make a great statement. For that extra detail, use a map with a personally significant location highlighted.

• Use a scarf or fabric remnant. Find out how at bklynbrideonline.com/14193/diy-projects/youme-diy-furoshiki-wrapping • Place it in a Christmas tin. This not only saves paper, it’s incredibly easy!

CenturyLink High-Speed Internet ®

We strive to keep you connected. That’s why we offer 5 years of 1 low price on CenturyLink® High-Speed Internet with speeds up to 40 Mbps (where available). No term commitment. Guaranteed.

CenturyLink proudly supports the United States Military.

Ask about our Military discount.

Call 877.645.4310 Click centurylink.com/usmilitary Come in South Hill Mall – 253.770.3472 Tacoma Mall – 253.475.2618

5 years. 1 price. 0 term commitment.

Speeds up to 12 Mbps Ask about how to get speeds up to 40 Mbps for only $10 more!

*Offer ends 5/31/2013. 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 (HSI) –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.

Speed Claims – 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. ©2013 CenturyLink, Inc. All Rights Reserved. The name CenturyLink and the pathways logo are trademarks of CenturyLink, Inc. All other marks are property of their respective owners.

JBLMmwr.com

5

Food & fun

Office party heaven is here!

Want an inexpensive, no-hassle holiday office party with a gorgeous scenic view? Plan your party for Tuesday, Dec. 10 at American Lake Conference Center anytime from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.!

The ALCC Office Party Holiday Buffet offers hot and cold buffet items fresh from the kitchen, plus festive cupcakes, cookies and cakes hand-crafted by inhouse pastry chefs.

The menu includes hot sliced turkey, garlic mashed potatoes and gravy, green bean casserole, curried pumpkin bisque, mini salad bar, sliced fruits and coffee and tea service.

You’ll be seated as a group in a festive setting. The cost is $13 per person, limited to parties of 30 or fewer.

Office party reservations are a must; 6

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • December 2013

call 253-964-1209 to book your own party today!

Plan other office party dates with a scenic view If you need to plan your weekday office party on a different day, The Bistro at Russell Landing is a perfect alternative for a lakeside view!

Located at the end of American Lake Avenue at Lewis North, the Bistro offers a hearty homestyle menu and is still

is Habañero Mexican Grill at Whispering Firs Golf Course at McChord Field.

Make your request now to book a private party with a view of the golf course in a light-filled setting that can seat 40 to 100 people.

If you have a party of 10 or fewer, just call ahead and the staff can seat you for lunch from 11 a.m.–1 p.m.

Call 253-982-2124/3271 for more information.

If you’re closer to the south end of

accepting reservations for large or small

JBLM, Eagles Pride Golf Course is a great

groups.

scenic setting for your staff party.

Call 253-964-2813 for lunch reservations for small groups or 253-964-1209 for catered parties in a private room. You

Call the central catering office at 253-964-1209 to get started now.

If you want to go as a group for lunch

can choose from a wide variety of cater-

at the golf course’s Caddy Shack Bar &

ing menus for your larger parties.

Grill, call ahead at 253-964-2792.

Another favorite venue for office parties

Menus are available at JBLMmwr.com.

Sign up for Breakfast with Santa Santa’s looking forward to having company for breakfast Saturday, Dec. 14!

He’s inviting you and your Family to join him at the Club at McChord Field from 10:30 a.m.–noon.

The cost is $10 for ages 10 and older, $7 for ages 3–9 and free for ages 2 and younger. Seating is limited; get your tickets by Friday, Dec. 13.

Call 253-982-0718 for ticket details.

Ring in the funky new year at ALCC Oh, we’re not done with parties yet!

Everyone age 18 and older is invited to American Lake Conference Center’s “Neon New Year’s Eve” celebration of the 1980s.

Dress in your flashiest ‘80s look for a night of deejay dancing, costume and get-down dancing contests, hors d’oeuvres, a champagne or cider toast at midnight and a breakfast buffet after midnight.

The Tuesday, Dec. 31 party lasts from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Purchase your tickets by Friday, Dec. 20 for $45 per couple or $22.50 per person.

After Dec. 20 and at the door, the cost is $50 per couple or $25 per person.

Reservations are requested, but walkins are welcome.

Call 253-964-1209 for ticket and reservation details.

Find exclusive holiday flavors, such as Candy Cane, Holiday Spice, Mistletoe Java and Frosty’s Favorite in Battle Bean coffee bean packages.

Battle Beans are at 2275 Liggett Ave. and 6242 Colorado Ave. (inside Stone Education Center) at Lewis Main.

Order custom cakes, cupcakes & cookies Having a birthday or holiday party at Bowl Arena Lanes, AFC Skate Arena or your home or office?

Order a personalized cake, cupcakes or cookies from American Lake Conference Center’s catering office! Choose from a large variety of flavors and icings, get a confectionery photo printed right into the icing, embellish it with decorations and lettering and voilà — your imagination’s the limit! Prices are competitive with other bakeries and grocery stores.

Call 253-964-1209 to set up an appointment with one of our pastry chefs, and ask about photo samples to get your ideas flowing.

Emiliano Hernandez

Meet another member of our culinary team while you’re at your party at American Lake Conference Center.

Sous chef John Presto discovered his passion for cooking during military service in Guam. Since his graduation from Oregon’s Western Culinary Institute, he has honed his skills in hotel, restaurant and resort kitchens.

Presto enjoys cooking all cuisines, especially Pan-Asian flavors. You can taste his dishes at catered events and parties through our one-stop catering.

Try Battle Bean holiday flavors Aren’t the holidays delicious? Right now, satisfy your sweet tooth with an AFC Arena Battle Bean Café’s candy cane mocha, eggnog latte and Frosty’s Favorite, a spiced graham-cracker-flavored latte.

Also find other favorites, such as caramel macchiato or hot caramel cider at your Battle Bean locations.

Take some flavored coffee beans home!

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Food & fun

December events and specials? I’m already lovin’ it!

See WWE pros at meet & greets The WWE is coming to JBLM Wednesday, Dec. 11. Meet championship talent in person at a number of meet and greets around Lewis Main, Lewis North and McChord Field! Look for specific times and places on the complete schedule at JBLMmwr.com/tributetothetroops.

Guess Seahawks wins for free food Come out to the Club at McChord Field for a tasty lunch Tuesdays to Fridays from 11 a.m.–1 p.m. and enter a special Seattle Seahawks drawing while you’re there!

Guess the winner of the next Seahawks game, and win a coupon for a free drink with your next food order.

If you guess the exact score, your next lunch is on the house!

The Club is located at 700 Barnes Blvd.

Call 253-982-5581 for more information.

Watch NBA, NHL & NFL at the WZ Wow! The Warrior Zone has all the live game-viewing action this season — the NBA, NHL and NFL, along with college games. So, come on over to watch your favorite team sports. If you don’t see your game, just request it at the front desk!

The WZ is open to ages 18 and older and is located at 11592 D St. at Lewis North.

See UFC 168 at two locations Sorry, the Heroes event has been canceled.

Catch the action at the Warrior Zone!

Ages 18 and older can see UFC 168 fights at no charge Saturday, Dec. 28 at Heroes Sports Lounge at 2400 Bitar Ave., on the giant 92-inch screen. Doors open at 5 p.m.

If you’re at Lewis North, watch the fights at the Warrior Zone at the corner of 17th & D streets.

Home brewers can compete for ‘Best of JBLM’ If you’re into making home brew, get ready to enter your best batches into the 2014 JBLM home brew competition. Registration begins Friday, Jan. 10. Submissions will be accepted through Saturday, Feb. 8 and judged by certified experts Sunday, Feb. 16.

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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • December 2013

Event organizers are encouraging home brewers to both compete and provide

(Special not available for guests.)

• Enter the Skins Tournament Saturday,

samples at Brewfest Friday, Feb. 21, where

Dec. 7 for $10 plus your green fee. Tee

winners will be awarded prizes and med-

time is 8 a.m.

als.

Download registration forms at JBLMmwr.com/brewfest. For more information, call 253-967-5776.

Enjoy exclusive specials at the Club at McChord Field When you’re a member of the Club at McChord Field, you’re getting exclusive savings! For instance, attend a free membership appreciation dinner Wednesday, Dec. 18 from 5–7 p.m. Bring your Family members or guests for $5 each.

On Friday, Dec. 20, come out for the member-only steak night; get two complete steak dinners for only $18.95.

And on Tuesdays, get two lunches for the price of one from 11 a.m.–1 p.m.

Also take advantage of free food Fridays from 5–6 p.m. before you play Club bingo.

Doesn’t it make sense to become a Club member today? Call 253-982-5581 for more information.

Get lunch and a cut Want a quick trim or haircut while you’re out at Cascade Community Center for lunch or after work? Stop by Kim’s Barber Shop conveniently located just inside the front entrance.

Kim’s Barber Shop is open to everyone.

For more information, call 253-964-4546.

Score big with discount golf Late fall and early winter are the best time to take advantage of significant savings at Eagles Pride and Whispering Firs golf courses.

You can’t beat the $35 18-hole winter golf combo at Eagles Pride, which in-

• If you’re an active duty military Family, you can get two-for-one range balls all month.

• Save with December’s golf combo — green fees, a shared cart and lunch is $30 for E1–E5 and $35 for E6 and above.

Specials can’t be combined with other specials and may not be used for tournaments or outings.

Eagles Pride is located off Exit 116 on I-5 near DuPont. Whispering Firs is at McChord Field at 895 Lincoln Blvd.

Questions? Call Eagles Pride at 253-967-6522 or Whispering Firs at 253-982-4927.

Watch free weekend movies at McChord Field There’s nothing better than free entertainment! The McChord Theater shows newly released DVDs of the hottest movies Saturdays at 4 and 7 p.m.

Find your favorite movie snacks at the lobby’s concessions stand. Check out what’s playing during December at JBLMmwr.com.

Drop by Heroes Lounge for fun Have you been over to Heroes Lounge lately? With 16 cold brews on tap, games on TV and room to dance and shoot pool, Heroes is a happening place to be!

Make it a point to experience what Heroes Lounge has to offer, including: • Free darts and pool Wednesdays and Thursdays starting at 4 p.m. and Fridays at 3 p.m.

• Saturday karaoke and deejay dancing from 9 p.m.–1 a.m.

cludes your green fee, power cart and $8

• NFL Sunday Ticket — Heroes is open

coupon for the Caddy Shack Bar & Grill.

from 9:30 a.m.–4 p.m. every Sunday

At Whispering Firs: • Get $7 green fees, $7 cart rental, $7

during football season.

Heroes Lounge is inside Cascade Com-

club rental and $7 lunch specials on

munity Center at 2400 Bitar at Lewis

Pearl Harbor Day Saturday, Dec. 7.

Main.

Save more than $100 in MWR purchases Join the Club at McChord Field and get reduced-price and free perks throughout MWR! When you use your new Chase Club card, you’ll get 10 percent off: • Any single meal more than $7 at any MWR eatery: the Warrior Zone, Cascade Community Center, The Bistro at Russell Landing, Caddy Shack Bar & Grill, Habañero Mexican Grill, Bowl Arena Lanes’ Strike Zone, Battle Bean Café and coffee shops and The Pub & Deli.

• ODR equipment rentals and select trips at the Northwest Adventure and Adventures Unlimited.

• When you order a coffee drink at any Battle Bean location.

• Regular in-stock pro shop items at Eagles Pride and Whispering Firs golf courses.

• Golf cart rentals at Eagles Pride and Whispering Firs golf courses.

You’ll get some freebies, as well: • A pair of free rental shoes whenever you bowl at Bowl Arena Lanes.

• Your first hour of bay or lift rentals free at your Auto Centers at Lewis Main and McChord Field.

• A free framing class with your purchase of supplies at your Arts & Crafts Center at McChord Field.

• Show your card to get a free bag of popcorn at the McChord Theater during movie showtimes.

You’ll also receive free and reducedprice meals when you dine at the Club.

Combine the savings for a whopping $72–$108! Club dues are based on rank/ grade and range from $3–$20 per month.

Join the Club today and also get 2 percent cash back on MWR, Commissary and Exchange purchases! JBLM active duty, DOD civilians, their Families, retirees, Reserves and National Guard are eligible.

Call the Club at 253-982-5581 for an application or visit chasemilitary.com/ airforce. Select “McChord” as your installation.

JBLMmwr.com

9

Food & fun

We’re hauling in the holiday good times!

THE AMENITIES YOU WANT. THE LOCATION YOU NEED. Attend tree lighting & reception

The new face of on-post hotels.

At IHG Army Hotels on Joint Base LewisMcChord, we know that convenience is about more than location. That’s why we’re changing the face of on-post hotels with upgraded rooms, complimentary breakfast and a knowledgeable staff. And since you don’t have to be in the military to stay with us, everyone’s welcome—no matter their mission.

IHGArmyHotels.com 8 7 7.7 1 1 . 8 3 2 6 Building 2107, Utah Avenue Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA 98433

The right place to stay is right on post.

©2013 InterContinental Hotels Group. All rights reserved.

IHG Army Hotels properties are independently owned

by Rest Easy, LLC, an affiliate of Lend Lease (US) Public Partnerships, LLC, and operated by an affiliate of IHG.

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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • December 2013

Enjoy Lewis Main’s annual tree lighting ceremony Thursday, Dec. 5 with a reception afterward at AFC Arena, 2275 Liggett Ave. Bring the entire Family to the free reception for Santa photos, crafts, face painting and more. Hear the 56th Army Band play and find out who the Family Treasure Hunt winners are.

The tree lighting begins at 4:30 p.m. in front of Jensen Family Health & Fitness Center at 2022 Liggett Ave.

See the Christmas Lighting Festival in Leavenworth Want to see holiday magic? Plan now to take a motorcoach trip with Leisure Travel Services from Lewis Main to the mountain village of Leavenworth for the Christmas Lighting Festival Saturdays, Dec. 7 and 14.

You’ll leave from LTS at 7:30 a.m., in plenty of time to see the opening parade at noon. See St. Nicholas, buy roasted chestnuts, try downhill sledding in the park and listen to music throughout the day. At dusk, the entire village lights up to the tune of “Silent Night.” The return trip drops you off by 9:30–10 p.m.

The trip costs $43 per person. (Children ages 5 and younger aren’t recommended due to the long ride and 14-hour day.)

For more information, call 253-967-3085 or drop by LTS at AFC Arena on Liggett Avenue at Lewis Main.

Rent Santa for your party Santa’s always busy this time of year, but he’s never too busy to make a personal appearance — for a small fee.

Arrange for Santa and his assistant elf to visit your home, office or unit and squadron parties from Dec. 1–23.

d prou r so spon u.s. ur of o ary t mili

t hwes t n o r t r s p os.r com m o tnowmsrock Each visit includes a stocking from Santa. Rental fees are $25 for a 15-minute hoho-ho, $50 for a half-hour visit or $75 for an entire hour of jolliness. Each additional 15-minute visit over an hour is $10.

Call BOSS at 253-967-5636 for more details and to schedule your time with Santa.

Find discounts at holiday golf pro shop sales Know someone who’s a golfer? Get in on pro shop sales at both golf courses at JBLM. Save 10–50 percent on select items with Whispering Firs’ annual Holiday Sale Dec. 1–23 (excluding PING).

Eagles Pride Golf Course Pro Shop lasts through Tuesday, Dec. 31 and includes: • 30–50 percent off irons.

• 30–50 percent off drivers.

• 15 percent off bags, shoes and wedges.

Spend $75 and pick a candy cane off the holiday tree for a free gift. Free gifts include putters, wedges, gloves, grips, balls and more.

Whispering Firs is at McChord Field at 895 Lincoln Blvd. Eagles Pride is located off Exit 116 on I-5 near DuPont. Questions? Call Whispering Firs at 253-982-4927 or Eagles Pride at 253-967-6522.

Enjoy Christmas Eve bowling Come on out to Bowl Arena Lanes for some fun and inexpensive Christmas Eve bowling — with extra free goodies!

From 11 a.m.–5 p.m., bowl $1 games with $1 shoe rentals while you munch on free cookies and cocoa, compliments of the staff.

If you’re hungry for a meal, the Strike Zone will be open! See JBLMmwr.com for the full menu.

WELCOME TO THE GREAT NORTHWEST CHECK OUT

NWMSROCKS.COM TO SEE OUR INVENTORY

JBLMmwr.com

11

Food & fun

by Patti Jeffrey

I f you’re shopping around for original ideas for holiday gift giving, get out your pens and start circling your favorites on this list. All your shopping can be done right here at JBLM without fighting the crowds. With 30 ideas from which to choose, it’s an easy wrap!

1. Buy a bag of holiday-flavored Battle Bean coffee beans from AFC Arena Battle Bean Café.

2. Purchase a Battle Bean travel mug from Battle Bean Café or online at JBLMmwr.com.

3. Buy a Battle Bean Gift Card at AFC Arena’s Battle Bean Cafe.

4. Find pewter ornaments from the JBLM Arts & Crafts Center collection at McChord Field. Buy a specially crafted JBLM ornament or select from Pacific Northwest-themed ornaments.

5. Create a custom photo jigsaw puzzle from Arts & Crafts — made from your favorite photo.

6. Get a custom photo night light from Arts & Crafts using your photo.

7. Order a custom photo pillowcase from Arts & Crafts.

8. Find a framed print from Arts & Crafts. Choose from premade selections or have them mat and frame your own print or photo.

9. Go to Arts & Crafts for custom-made wooden ornaments.

10. Order a custom shadow box from Arts & Crafts using your favorite objects.

11. Get a glass mug with laser-etched custom lettering at Arts & Crafts.

12. Order a photo porcelain ornament from Arts & Crafts printed front and back with your own photo.

13. Personalize your Christmas stockings with Arts & Crafts. See the pullout for a Tuesday, Dec. 3 discount.

14. Order a custom photo coffee mug from Arts & Crafts 15. Choose a pewter wine cork from Arts & Crafts’ pewter selections.

16. Order a personalized jacket, hat, polo shirt, T-shirt, bag and more from Arts & Crafts.

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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • December 2013

17. Buy a gift certificate for a therapeutic massage with a licensed massage therapist at the McChord Fitness Center Annex. Call Badgerhawk’s Bodyworks at 206-396-1467.

18. Find discounted golf clothing, select golf clubs and accessories from golf pro shop sales at Eagles Pride or Whispering Firs golf courses.

19. Purchase a discount CityPass from Leisure Travel Services at Lewis Main.

20. Get discount movie passes from LTS. 21. Buy TicketMaster tickets for less from LTS (no extra service fee).

22. Plan discount vacations at LTS. 23. Ride the Ducks of Seattle with discount tickets through LTS. 24. Purchase an MWR Gift Card (just like cash) at the Arts & Crafts Center,

Battle Bean Café, Bowl Arena Lanes, Northwest Adventure Center and Whispering Firs Golf Course. MWR Gift Cards can be redeemed at the following participating locations: Battle Bean coffee locations, The Bistro at Russell Landing, the Caddy Shack at Eagles Pride, Habañero Mexican Grill at Whispering Firs, Cascade Community Center and Heroes Lounge, the Warrior Zone dining area, JBLM golf courses, Bowl Arena Lanes, AFC Skate Arena, LTS, Arts & Crafts, Outdoor Recreation and JBLM Auto Centers.

25. Purchase outdoor gloves, hats and snow sports accessories from the Northwest Adventure Center at Lewis North.

26. Find scuba accessories at the NAC. 27. Buy hunting gear at the NAC. 28. Surprise someone with a January ski/ snowboard or snowshoe trip with the Outdoor Recreation program (see enter-to-win details in the pull-out).

29. Give a gift of beginning scuba lessons from the NAC. (See pull-out for a December discount.)

30. Take a friend or spouse bungee jumping — sign up at the NAC. Many special-order gifts must be ordered two or three weeks before Christmas; please check ahead of time. Also check out the Holi-daily Deals pull-out section for December MWR specials.

For information on MWR facilities’ hours of operation, phones and locations, visit JBLMmwr.com.

JBLMmwr.com

13

Family & the homefront

What do you want to be when you grow up?

While what your child wants to be today — I want to be a superhero! — could be very different from what they want to be tomorrow — I want to be a ballerina! — you can give them the tools to discover what makes them happy.

Partner with Child, Youth and School Services and let them explore new interests and activities.

There are so many options! Choose from a variety of SKIES classes (to include parentand-me, dance and gymnastics options),

their parents. Sign up today and dance

classes are coming soon, too. Stay tuned

January mornings away at Hillside or McChord SKIES locations.

A variety of dance classes are offered for all ages and interests. Visit WebTrac at JBLMmwr.com for details and to register for January classes. Registration is on a monthly basis, so you can switch classes as often as you or your child choose.

Hillside SKIES, 6398 Garcia Blvd., is located at Lewis Main, and McChord SKIES is located in the CYSS Gateway Center,

for details.

team sports, special events and more.

560 Lincoln Blvd.

Dance to your own beat with SKIESUnlimited dance classes

Stretch, flip & roll with gymnastics classes for all ages, levels

Parent-and-me dance classes are for children ages 18 months to 3 years and 14

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • December 2013

Gymnastics classes are now being offered at the McChord SKIES location! Art

What do your children want to “My 3-year-old wants to be an Airborne Ranger.”

“My 6-year-old son wants to be a NASCAR race car driver; my 3-year-old daughter wants to be a singer.”

“My son (12) wants to be a video game designer. And my daughter (8) wants to be a fashion designer and an artist.”

“My son (age 7) wants to be a firefighter. My 10-year-old wants to be a Lego® designer.

My 2-year-old wants to be Mickey Mouse.”

JBLMmwr.com

15

SUNDAY

you

TUESDAY

1

OUR GIFT TO

2nd ANNUAL FAMILY & MWR

MONDAY

2 3 Buy one, get one free

Free candy cane ACS at Waller Hall

Free beverage with lunch purchase Habañero Mexican Grill

stocking embroidery Arts & Crafts Center

ENTER TO WIN AT THE ARTS & CRAFTS CENTER! Guess how ma ENTER TO WIN AT BOWL ARENA LANES! Stop by this week for y

8

HOLI-DAILY DEALS

$1 off skeet and trap Skeet & Trap Range

9

Free candy cane Airman & Family Readiness Center

15

at your golf courses

Eagles Pride Golf Course through Dec. 31 30–50% off irons & drivers 15% off bags, shoes & wedges Limited to in-stock items 253-967-6522

Whispering Firs Golf Course through Dec. 23 Select items up to 50% off *Special orders through Dec. 7 at sale price 253-982-4927

Free bucket of range balls Whispering Firs Golf Course

16

Free chocolate treat Lewis Main & McChord Field Parent Central

17

$1 off lunch The Bistro at Russell Landing

ENTER TO WIN AT THE CLUB AT McCHORD FIELD Stop by this w

22 $1 off lunch The Caddy Shack at Eagles Pride Golf Course

23

$1 off food purchase The Zone

24

Buy 1 pizza, get 1 half-price The Zone $1 games, $1 shoes Bowl Arena Lanes, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.

ENTER TO WIN AT THE WARRIOR ZONE Stop by through Dec. 26 for your chance to win a gamer

29 30 31 Free bucket of range balls Eagles Pride Golf Course

For every $75 you spend, you’re eligible for prizes. Some restrictions apply. Check at Pro Shop for details.

16

10% off pastries AFC Arena Battle Bean

ENTER TO WIN AT THE BISTRO! Stop by this week for your chan

December 2013

Holiday salE

10

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • December 2013

Enter to win two passes for an ODR cross-country ski trip Northwest Adventure Center

Free holiday treat Family & MWR Marketing Office

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

$1 off bar food order Heroes Sports Lounge

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

4 5 Free beverage with

6 $1 off 16-oz. coffee drink 7

Free candy cane Raindrops & Rainbows

lunch purchase The Bistro at Russell Landing

Stone Ed Center Battle Bean Stop by the McChord Library to guess how many Hershey kisses are in the jar for a chance to win a Leap Pad Reader2!

any Hershey kisses are in the jar for your chance to win a 36”x12” print of Mount Rainier your chance to win an 8-foot toy-&-game-filled stocking!

Free beverage with lunch purchase The Caddy Shack at Eagles Pride Golf Course

11

10% off one-day bay fee JBLM Auto Centers

nce to win an 8-foot toy-&-game-filled stocking!

18

Free beverage with lunch purchase Globemaster Grill

12 Free candy cane Stone Ed Center Battle Bean

19

Free beverage with lunch purchase Cascade Community Center

13

14 Stop by Grandstaff Library to guess how many Hershey kisses are in the jar for a chance to win a stay at Great Wolf Lodge!

20

21

27

28

Stop by Hillside Youth Center–Teen Stop by the McChord Youth Center to guess Zone to guess how many Hershey kisses are in how many Hershey kisses are in the jar the jar for a chance to for a chance to win a stay at Great Wolf Lodge! win an electric guitar!

week for your chance to win an 8-foot toy-&-game-filled stocking!

25

26

Stop by The Zone to guess how many Stop by the ACS Annex to guess how many Stop by McChord Gym to guess how many Hershey kisses are in the jar for a chance to Hershey kisses are in the jar for a chance to Hershey kisses are in the jar for a chance to win lunch for two at The win a car detailing win a car detailing Bistro at Russell Landing gift certificate! gift certificate!

rs/techie stocking!

Free candy cane Leisure Travel Services

MONTH-LONG SPECIALS

Mention the Focus magazine’s special “Holi-daily Deals” section to receive the discounts below.

• Save big on cruises at Leisure Travel Services • Save $5 on an open-water scuba lesson package at the Northwest Adventure Center at Lewis North • Receive 10 percent off fees for custom framing at the Arts & Crafts Center

• Save 10 percent on Zone wear & accessories at Gear Zone (inside the Warrior Zone) • Save $1 on printed porcelain and laser engraved wooden ornaments at the Arts & Crafts Center JBLMmwr.com

17

JBLM holiday CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Pfc. Kiari Mhoon from right here at JBLM is one of the 12 finalists slated to compete in Operation Rising Star this month!

U.S. Installation Management Command

Invite Santa to your home

Dec. 1–23; call the BOSS Team for pricing and reservation: 967-5636

Free movies at McChord Theater

Saturdays, 4 & 7 p.m.

G9 Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation

Horseback riding

Sunday, Dec. 1; sign up with the NAC or WebTrac (JBLMmwr.com)

programs will host and conduct the finals of

Seattle Outlets and Tulalip Casino

Sunday, Dec. 1; sign up with the NAC or WebTrac (JBLMmwr.com)

Operation Rising Star at Fort Sam Houston

McChord Tree Lighting

Monday, Dec. 2, 4 p.m. at the McChord Chapel

Theatre, to determine the 2013 rising star.

SFAC Open House Rodeo

Tuesday, Dec. 3, 1–3 p.m.; 966-8433

Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony

Thursday, Dec. 5 in front of Jensen Gym, 4:30 p.m.; reception at AFC Arena

tants in daily performances and be judged on

Fallen Heroes Tree Decoration

Thursday, Dec. 5, 5–7 p.m.; 967-7501

their singing talent and stage presence. Each

Reindeer Dash

Saturday, Dec. 7, 9 a.m. at Eagles Pride Golf Course; sign up at JBLMmwr.com/races

round will be recorded, and the general public

Christmas Lighting Festival

Saturdays, Dec. 7 & 14 in Leavenworth with LTS; reservations: 967-3085

will be able to view and vote for their favorite

Intro to mountain biking

Saturday, Dec. 7; sign up with the NAC or WebTrac (JBLMmwr.com)

performer to move ahead in the competition.

Seattle Insider’s Tour

Saturday, Dec. 7; sign up with the NAC or WebTrac (JBLMmwr.com)

Every round will be scored based on a combina-

Op Rising Star viewing party

Sunday, Dec. 8 at Warrior Zone. Vote for JBLM’s Pfc. Kiari Mhoon; 477-5756

Visit Seattle Aquarium/Pike Place

Sunday, Dec. 8; sign up with NAC or WebTrac (JBLMmwr.com)

tion of votes from the public and the judges.

Snowshoe Paradise

Sunday, Dec. 8; sign up with the NAC or WebTrac (JBLMmwr.com)

Office Party at ALCC

Tuesday, Dec. 10, 11 a.m.–2 p.m. reservations: 964-1209

Holiday Open House, Grandstaff

Wednesday, Dec. 11, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.; 967-5889

WWE Tribute to the Troops

Wednesday, Dec. 11; see unit leadership or JBLMmwr.com for details. Tickets limited

Hearts Apart holiday gathering

Wednesday, Dec. 11, 6–8 p.m.; RSVP by Monday, Dec. 2: 967-3633

Holiday Open House, McChord

Thursday, Dec. 12, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.; 982-3454

EFMP Holiday Concert

Thursday, Dec. 12, 3–5 p.m.; 967-9705

Breakfast with Santa

Saturday, Dec. 14, 10:30–noon at the Club at McChord Field; tix by Dec. 13; 982-0718

Ski-n-snowboard Crystal Mountain

Saturday, Dec. 14; sign up with the NAC or WebTrac (JBLMmwr.com)

Soldiers and military Family members similar

Bald eagle float trip

Saturday, Dec. 14; sign up with the NAC or WebTrac (JBLMmwr.com)

to but not affiliated with the popular televi-

Walking/shuttle lights tour

Friday, Dec. 13 at McChord Youth Center, for MST; 982-2203

sion show American Idol.

Holiday Fest

Saturday, Dec. 14, 2–5 p.m., Hillside Youth Center; 967-4441

Zoolights at Point Defiance

Sunday, Dec. 15; sign up with the NAC or WebTrac (JBLMmwr.com)

Snowshoe Commonwealth Basin

Sunday, Dec. 15; sign up with the NAC or WebTrac (JBLMmwr.com)

Sea kayak skills class

Tuesday, Dec. 17 (five-part series); sign up with the NAC or WebTrac (JBLMmwr.com)

Christmas Eve bowling

Bowl Arena Lanes Thursday, Dec. 24; $1 games & $1 shoes, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.

UFC 168

Saturday, Dec. 28, 5 p.m. at Heroes Lounge & Warrior Zone

Neon New Year’s Eve

‘80s celebration for 18+, Tuesday, Dec. 31, 8 p.m.–1 a.m. Tickets: 964-1209

Resiliency through Reading

Monday, Jan. 6: a special storytime with Col. Hodges, JBLM commander for ages 3–5 and their Families; the event is free but reservations required at JBLMmwr.com

Events are subject to change without notice. Check the event listings in the December issue of the Focus or the event calendar at JBLMmwr.com for details. For outdoor recreation trips, gear and transportation are provided. Call the Northwest Adventure Center at 253-967-6263 for details. Prices and registration via WebTrac at JBLMmwr.com.

Mhoon will compete against other contes-

The Warrior Zone at Lewis North is hosting a viewing and voting party, or you can watch the initial performance at OpRisingStar.com on Sunday, Dec. 8, followed by semifinals and finals Dec. 10 and 12. The winner of the 2013 competition will be revealed on Dec. 14. For details, call 253-477-5756.

Operation Rising Star is a singing contest for

BIG

Club Card SAVINGS Get free perks & reduced prices at your favorite MWR locations when you join the Club at McChord Field!

With your new Chase Club card, you’ll get 10 percent off at: Select eateries, Outdoor Recreation locations, Battle Bean and golf courses.

Plus freebies at: Bowl Arena Lanes, Auto Centers, Arts & Crafts Center and the McChord Theater.

Get 2% cash back on MWR, Commissary and Exchange purchases JBLM active duty, DOD civilians, their Families, retirees, Reserves and National Guard are eligible.

Call the Club at 253-982-5581 for an application or visit chasemilitary.com/airforce. Select “McChord” as your installation. For details on the discounts and freebies available, see page 9.

18

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • December 2013

For a schedule for all locations (and pricing for all classes), visit WebTrac at JBLMmwr.com.

Please remember December class schedules may vary due to the holidays. Contact your instructor for class scheduling information.

Have you signed up for youth sports camps yet?

The Youth Sports Office has a calendar full of camps and activities for your aspiring athletes ages 3–18. Camps vary based on interests and age and include soccer, volleyball, Start Smart, flag football and baseball.

See the full fall–winter sports calendar on the Community Update page at JBLMmwr.com or join the CYSS fan club at fb.com/JBLMcyss for daily updates and registration reminders.

Score big when you join the Special Olympics basketball team Registration ends soon for Special Olympics basketball. Open to youth ages 8–18 with or without special needs, sign up at Parent Central or via WebTrac by Friday, Dec. 13. The cost is $50.

Do you know the next JBLM Youth of the Year?

If you know a hard-working JBLM youth, nominate him or her for Youth of the Year, the Boys & Girls Clubs of America premier recognition program.

Youth of the Year nominees should exemplify service, character and leadership.

Applications are available at Hillside and McChord youth centers and on the Community Update page at JBLMmwr.com. The application deadline is Tuesday, Dec. 10.

JBLM will hold interviews Dec. 16–18, at which time three finalists will be selected and reinterviewed.

The JBLM winner will move on to compete at the state level for a $1,000 scholarship. To read more about the history of the award and BGCA, visit JBLMmwr.com.

For details, call 253-967-4441.

flake making and free hot chocolate and cider. For details, call 253-967-4441.

Plus, youth are invited to join the McChord Youth Center for a walking/shuttle tour of holiday lights Friday, Dec. 13. Plus, the youth will host a festive holiday play for program Families Friday, Dec. 20. For more information, call 253-982-2203.

Resiliency through reading The staff at Hillside SKIES is proud to host Col. Hodges, JBLM Commander, for a special reading event Monday, Jan. 6, 10:30–11:30 a.m.

The story, “With my dreams, I can dream,” is part of a resiliency experience that encourages children to think about what their dreams are and to illustrate their ideas using various art supplies and collage items.

This event is inspired by Dr. Martin

Holiday fun at JBLM youth centers

Luther King Jr.’s famous “I have a dream

If your children like crafts, games and prizes, bring them to Holiday Fest Saturday, Dec. 14. The fun for all ages is from

speech,” and is designed for children ages

2–5 p.m. at the Hillside Youth Center,

Lewis Main. The event is free, but regis-

6397 Garcia Blvd. at Lewis Main. Enjoy

tration is required. Register on WebTrac

snowman crafts, games and prizes, snow-

at JBLMmwr.com.

3–5 and their Family members.

Hillside SKIES is at 6398 Garcia Blvd.,

Goal! Soccer sign-up starts Dec. 2 Sign up your athletes, young and older kickers alike, for soccer. Bumblebee soccer (ages 3–4) is $20, and soccer (ages 5–15) is $55. Registration is open Dec. 2–Jan. 31 at Parent Central and online.

be when they grow up?

“My daughter, 5, is convinced she is gonna be an Air Force doctor AND a 49ers cheerleader... we’re behind her 100% lol.”

“Our daughter (13) wants to be an elementary school teacher, our son (11) wants to be a chef, our son (10) wants to be an officer (chaplain) in the Army and our son (10) wants to be a police officer.”

“My daughters, 8, want to be singers discovered on X Factor, or music teachers.”

Join the discussion at fb.com/JBLMcyss

JBLMmwr.com

19

THERE’S

LIVEability

FREESTONE COMMUNITIES

AT

It’s here and a lot of it in more than 1200 homes built by Freestone over the past 20 years. These livable homes cover more than 2.5 million square feet of built-in extras, filled with billions extras of extra touches, one home at a time. Now, that’s liveability you can live with in a home you can be proud of for many years.

Learn, celebrate Army Community A

rmy Community Service offers programs, workshops and services for Families at JBLM. No matter what stage of military life you’re in right now, ACS is here.

Here’s a glance at some of the ACS events in December; call 253-967-7166 or 253-982-2695 for additional program or event information.

Soldier and Family Assistance Center Open House Rodeo Join the SFAC Tuesday, Dec. 3, 1–3 p.m. for an open house for Integrated Disability Evaluation Soldiers and Families to learn

about services that will help with the transition from military to community life. The SFAC is located at 9059 Gardner Loop at Lewis Main. For more information, call 253-966-8433.

Financially Fit Learn the importance of goal setting, finding your net worth, budget-setting techniques, creating a spending plan and debt-reduction strategies in Financially Fit. This interactive class is Tuesday, Dec. 3, 9 a.m.–noon at the Airman & Family Readiness Center.

To register or for details, call 253-967-1453.

International Spouse Orientation and Multicultural Workshop Adapting to a new culture can be challenging for you and your Family members. Attend the International Spouse Orientation and Multicultural Workshop Wednesday, Dec. 4 for information about employment, driver’s license, citizenship, English as a second language and more!

The event is from 1–4 p.m. in the ACS classroom at Waller Hall, and registration is required by Monday, Dec. 2. We can help make your transition smoother; call 253-967-3633 for more information.

HELP US CELEBRATE!

Contact Scott Griffin

(253) 896-1300 20

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • December 2013

It’s Army Family Team Building’s 19th birthday, and you’re invited to the party! Come enjoy cake and refreshments Monday, Dec. 16 at 11 a.m.–1 p.m. at Waller Hall, 2140 Liggett Ave. at Lewis Main. For details, call 253-967-AFTB.

Fallen Heroes Christmas Tree Decoration Party Survivor Outreach Services is hosting a party to honor fallen Service Members Thursday, Dec. 5, 5–7 p.m.

Loved ones are invited to place an ornament (heart-shaped angel wings with photo) of their fallen heroes on the tree in the ACS Annex (2166 12th St. at Lewis Main). Call 253-967-7501 for details.

Domestic Violence Conference Join JBLM

with Service and guest speaker Anne Munch, victim advocate and attorney, at the Domestic Violence Conference Friday, Dec. 6 from 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Register: 253-967-5940.

Newcomers’ Orientation

Held for new arrivals to JBLM, the Newcomers’ Orientation is Tuesday, Dec. 10. Held at The Club at McChord Field (700 Barnes Blvd.), the event includes lunch, bus tour and vendors. Casual/civilian attire for Service Members; Family members are welcome to attend! Airmen should arrive at 8 a.m.; Soldiers at 8:30 a.m. For more information, call 253-967-3628 (Lewis) or 253-968-3125 (McChord Field).

Tax Planning It’s never too early to prepare for tax season. Take the tax planning workshop Wednesday, Dec. 11, 10–11:30 a.m. in the ACS Classroom at Waller Hall. To register or for more information, call 253-967-1453.

Care Team training Become a part of the Care Team, providing support to Families when they need it most.

The next required training session is Tuesday, Dec. 10, 6–8 p.m. in the ACS classroom at Waller Hall. To register, call 253-967-8430.

(punch and cookies provided) to the Hearts Apart holiday gathering Wednesday, Dec. 11, 6–8 p.m. in the ACS classroom at Waller Hall. RSVP by Monday, Dec. 2. Hearts Apart is an outreach program for active duty military Families with Service Members on an unaccompanied tour, extended temporary duty or field training exercise. For more information, call 253-967-3633/3550.

EFMP holiday concert EFMP Families are invited to the 4th Annual EFMP Holiday Concert Thursday, Dec. 12, 3–5 p.m. at the Lewis Chapel North Activity Center. Individuals are free to move about as needed, and the ensemble is sensitive to the volume of their music. There will be cookies and coffee following the concert. For more information, call 253-967-9705.

JBLM SHARP Office open The JBLM Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention Office provides an avenue for sexual assault reporting, sexual harassment complaints and advocacy services for military personnel and their Family members (at least 18 years old); SHARP training is also available.

Conversations with SHARP personnel

Hearts Apart/Waiting Families Support Group Waiting Families, you’re invited

are confidential; call 253-967-2072 for

to bring your favorite holiday treat

SHARP Hotline at 253-389-8469.

more information. Reach the 24/7 JBLM

Army Community Service has six convenient locations to serve you at JBLM • ACS Annex, 2166 Liggett Ave & S. 12th St. at Lewis Main (253-967-4424) • Airman & Family Readiness Center, 552 Barnes Blvd. at McChord Field (253-982-2695) • Family & MWR Headquarters, 2013 N. 3rd St. at Lewis Main (Family Advocacy Program, 253-967-6416) • Family Resource Center, 4274 Idaho Ave. at 9th Division, Lewis Main (253-967-9496) • Soldier & Family Assistance Center, 9059 Gardner Loop at Lewis Main (253-966-8433) • Waller Hall, 2140 Liggett Ave. at Lewis Main (253-967-7166)

JBLMmwr.com

21

Adventures

Welcome winter in a fun way with the Outdoor Rec program

Step into the snow for a great winter adventure.

Choose from snowshoe treks, ski-n-snowboard trips and other awesome options to get you outside and appreciating the cold temps!

Bald eagle float trip Many people will never get to see the majestic bald eagle in its natural habitat, but on this Sunday, Jan. 5, trip, we could view up to 200! Join us to float down the docile Skagit River in a large, stable raft among one of the largest concentrations of bald eagles in the lower 48 states. ($55)

Cross-country ski Lake Easton Combine short

emerald green forest above a majestic sparkling

trails, rolling hills, groomed trails and beautiful views, and you have a great day of cross-country skiing at Lake Easton! Join us for this Family-friendly trip Sunday, Dec. 22. Go to the Northwest Adventure Center by Saturday, Dec. 21 to be fitted for gear. Difficulty: moderate; time: 3 hours; distance: 5 miles. Minimum age: 16 ($40)

river. If adrenaline is what you crave, you won’t

Military Appreciation Day at Crystal Mountain

Bungee jumping Head to the base of Mount St. Helens to bungee jump off the highest bungee bridge in the country. A full 20 stories high, the spectacular private bridge is nestled in a beautiful

be disappointed Saturday, Dec. 28. The trip fee includes two jumps, the coveted Dangerous Sports Club T-shirt and bragging rights. Minimum weight: 90 lbs. ($135)

Cross-country ski Keechelus Lake This will be a great day in the snow-filled Cascades! Join us Saturday, Jan. 4 and ski along Keechelus Lake near Snoqualmie Pass. Gear and basic instruction are 22

provided. Go to the Northwest Adventure Center by Friday, Jan. 3 to be fitted for your gear. Difficulty: easy; distance: 5 miles; time: 3 hours. Minimum age: 12 ($40)

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • December 2013

Don’t miss the chance to ski or ride Crystal for half-price on Wednesday, Jan. 15! Gear is provided (go to the Northwest Adventure Center by Tuesday, Jan. 14 to be fitted for your gear). Lift tickets aren’t included but should be purchased at the mountain with military ID. ($45; have your own gear: $25) Continued on page 24.

JBLMmwr.com

23

Adventures

Moonlight snowshoe Snoqualmie Pass Head to Snoqualmie Pass and snowshoe in the moonlight Friday, Dec. 27! Dress warmly because you won’t see the sun on this trip. Difficulty: beginner; distance: 1.5 miles; elevation gain: 50 feet; time: 2 hours. ($35)

Ski-n-snowboard at Crystal Mountain Tired of the winter rain? Join us Saturday, Dec. 21 as we head for the snow and spend the day at Crystal Mountain! Gear is provided (go to the Northwest Adventure Center by Friday, Dec. 20 to be fitted for your gear). Lift tickets aren’t included in the trip fee; you may purchase online at CrystalMountainResort.com/Tickets-andPasses/Military. ($45; have your own gear, pay just $25)

Ski-n-snowboard Mission Ridge On Saturday, Jan. 11, travel across the moun-

tains to central Washington for a day of skiing at the beautiful Mission Ridge Ski Resort. Gear is provided; get fitted at the Northwest Adventure Center by Friday, Jan. 10. Lift ticket isn’t included. ($55; transportation only: $35)

Ski-n-snowboard White Pass Head off the beaten path to White Pass for a day on the slopes! Join us Sunday, Dec. 29 for fun in the snow. Trip package includes lift ticket, gear and lesson. ($105; transportation only: $30)

Snowmobile the Cascades For those seeking the most fun-filled winter experience out there, check out this snowmobiling trip through the Cascade Mountains! Fun, action, beauty and excitement await you Saturday, Jan. 4.

Snowmobile, helmet, boots, gloves and snowsuit are provided. Dress in layers.

Minimum age to drive: 16 ($160; adult passengers: $125; passengers age 15 and younger: $75)

Snowshoe Commonwealth Basin Join us Sunday, Dec. 22 for an adventurous trek through great snow, varied terrain and a web of trails in a shadowy old-growth forest. You’ll be able to pause for an occasional break to take pictures and observe the views of the surrounding peaks of this beautiful winter wonderland. Difficulty: moderate; distance: 4 miles; elevation gain: 2,300 feet; time: 3.5 hours. Minimum age: 12 ($40) Snowshoe Hurricane Ridge On Saturday, Dec. 28, join us to discover the beauty of the Olympic Mountain Range on snowshoeing trails that offer something for everybody. Minimum age: 12 ($65)

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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • December 2013

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Snowshoe Mount Rainier Explore Mount

winter camping class, group gear (not in-

Rainier’s Glacier Vista in all its winter glory. Join us Sunday, Jan. 5. Difficulty: moderate; distance: 3+ miles; elevation gain: 1,000 feet. Minimum age: 12 ($40)

seal and many amazing things to see and touch. Pike Place Market has an assortment of unique food and shops for you to try. Cost includes aquarium admission. ($35; ages 4–12: $25; ages 0–3: $5)

Snowtubing Travel to one of Washing-

Winter survival camping trip On Satur-

ton’s greatest tubing hills for a fun day in the snow Sunday, Jan. 12. Tubing is a blast for all ages, so dress warmly and get ready to go for a wild ride! Tubes are provided. ($35; ages 6–12: $25; ages 0–5: $5)

day, Jan. 11, head to Paradise at Mount

Visit Seattle Aquarium and Pike Place Market Visit Seattle tourist destinations

cooking and leave-no-trace camping. A

Sunday, Dec. 29. The Seattle Aquarium is filled with local exhibits, a visiting harbor

the Northwest Adventure Center Wednes-

Zoo Lights at Point Defiance Stroll the exhibits at the Point Defiance Zoo as it comes aglow with more than a halfmillion lights. Encounter animals at the following exhibits: Rocky Shores, Arctic Tundra, Red Wolves and Asian Forest Sanctuary. Warm up with hot chocolate, shop for gifts or just enjoy the beautiful decorations Saturday, Dec. 21. Cost includes admission. ($20; ages 0–2: $5)

Rainier National Park for an overnight trip to learn the basics of trip preparation, winter travel, shelter construction and winter survival basics, backcountry mandatory pre-trip class will be held at day, Jan. 8, 5–6 p.m. The trip fee includes

Outdoor adventure trip

Date

Cost

Details

Zoo Lights at Point Defiance

Saturday, Dec. 21

$20

Ages 0–2: $5

Ski-n-snowboard at Crystal Mountain

Saturday, Dec. 21

$45

Transportation only: $25

Cross-country ski Lake Easton

Sunday, Dec. 22

$40

Minimum age: 16

Snowshoe Commonwealth Basin

Sunday, Dec. 22

$40

Minimum age: 12

Moonlight snowshoe Snoqualmie Pass

Friday, Dec. 27

$35

Bungee jumping

Saturday, Dec. 28

$135

Minimum weight: 90 lbs.

Snowshoe Hurricane Ridge

Saturday, Dec. 28

$65

Minimum age: 12

Ski-n-snowboard White Pass

Sunday, Dec. 29

$105

Transportation only: $30

Visit Seattle Aquarium & Pike Place Market

Sunday, Dec. 29

$35

Ages 4–12: $25; ages 0–3: $5

Cross-country ski Keechelus Lake

Saturday, Jan. 4

$40

Minimum age: 12

Snowmobile the Cascades

Saturday, Jan. 4

$160

See description for pricing/age breakdown

Bald eagle float

Sunday, Jan. 5

$55

Snowshoe Mount Rainier

Sunday, Jan. 5

$40

Minimum age: 12

Ski-n-snowboard at Mission Ridge

Saturday, Jan. 11

$55

Transportation only: $35

Winter survival camping

Saturday, Jan. 11

$75

Minimum age: 18

Snowtubing

Sunday, Jan. 12

$35

Ages 6–12: $25; ages 0–5: $5

Military Appreciation Day at Crystal

Wednesday, Jan. 15

$45

Transportation only: $25

Preregistration is required for all trips; prices and schedule are subject to change without notice. Gear and transportation are included unless otherwise stated. Register via WebTrac (visit JBLMmwr.com) or at the Northwest Adventure Center at Lewis North. Confirm pick-up locations and times upon registration. Group rates and private trips are available; call for details. We’ll visit FRG meetings or unit functions to tell you about the great recreation and adventure options in the area. For more information, call 253-967-6263 or visit JBLMmwr.com.

Especially accommodates people with exceptional needs Popular with Families For more info: 253-967-6263 • JBLMmwr.com

cluding sleeping bag), entrance to Mount Rainier National Park and two camp meals (participants are responsible for lunch on day 1). Minimum age: 18 ($75)

More adventurous options After-Christmas sale Get what you really wanted for Christmas at the Northwest Adventure Center’s After-Christmas Sale! On Thursday, Dec. 26, everything in the store is 10 percent off. Select items will be 15 percent off, so come and shop for what you really wish you had waiting under the tree. Details: 253-967-8282.

Travel to sunny Florida with LTS Contact Leisure Travel Services to plan your next vacation. A great deal’s going on right now — with a purchase of a two-day Universal Studios park ticket, get the third day free. Some restrictions apply. LTS, 2275 Liggett Ave., is inside AFC Arena at Lewis Main. For details, call 253-967-3085.

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Feelin’ good

Dive JBLM

Swim Meet

If you love to swim, compete, push yourself or all of the above, sign up to participate in the JBLM Swim Meet.

It’s at Soldiers Field House Wednesday, Jan. 22 at 5:30 p.m.

(3236 2nd Division Dr. at Handrich at Lewis Main). Unit teams and individuals are encouraged to register at JBLMmwr.com. The firstthrough third-place swimmers in each event will receive a medal.

Events will be posted online.

If you plan to swim at the meet, make sure you attend the information session Tuesday, Jan. 7 at SFH Pool at 1 p.m. For more information, call 253-967-4768.

26

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • December 2013

right in!

JBLM Sports & Fitness

has great events and programs this winter to keep you active, healthy and happy.

Sign up for a race, swim meet or intramural sports, or visit the sports and fitness center near you for a great workout. Get the winter blahs? Not you!

Ready, set ... go! Dance & run at the Reindeer Dash Get ready to rock ‘n roll at the Reindeer Dash! DJ Chrissy Williams — you know her from the Down & Dirty Mud Run series at JBLM — will get you dancing and warmed up for this month’s race. She’ll turn up the tunes and get you ready for the race.

Join her Saturday, Dec. 7 at the Family-friendly fun run at Eagles Pride Golf Course.

Sign up now at JBLMmwr.com/races. Every registered runner will receive a race T-shirt (sorry, T-shirt size can’t be guaranteed at this point in the registration process). If you register, you’ll also be entered to win a $500 gift card to Great Wolf Lodge!

The race is at 9 a.m., and packet pickup begins on race day at 7:30 a.m. Awards will be given to the first- through third-place finishers in each age group, as well as the winner of the tackiest Christmas sweater contest (so be sure to layer your running gear with a tacky sweater for the race to the finish line).

• Registration until noon Thursday, Dec. 5: $20, military affiliation; $35, civilian/no military affiliation; $5, 2K Rudolph Run. • Day-of-race registration: $25, military affiliation; $40, civilian, no military affiliation; $5, 2K Rudolph Run.

Get loud at the flag football championship The Intramural Flag Football Championship Game is Thursday, Dec. 19 at Lewis Main’s Cowan Stadium.

Kick-off is at 6 p.m.

Get a jump start on your get-in-shape resolutions at a JBLM gym Each year, many of us make fitness-related resolutions. Whether you want to get toned, shave a couple minutes off your race time or work on six-pack abs, JBLM sports and fitness centers have the cardio and weight equipment you need.

Don’t break your New Year’s resolutions — join in on a fitness class, sign up to share in the wisdom of a fitness trainer and take a smart approach with health and wellness services. It’s all free!

Sports and fitness centers are conveniently located across JBLM and house a variety of top-of-the-line equipment. For details, visit JBLMmwr.com.

Take your pick from intramurals options in the New Year Intramural soccer and bowling are coming in February! Stay tuned for details on information sessions. In the meantime, call the Intramural Sports Office at 253-967-4768 for more information.

For program announcements and JBLM sports and fitness news, like us on Facebook: fb.com/JBLMAerobicsandFitness.

JBLMmwr.com

27

Learning & earning

YOU CAN!

Getting out from under the burden of debt

By Arnie Norem, Army Community Service Financial Readiness Specialist

I

n debt? Stress no more. With these simple steps from the ACS Financial Readiness Program, you may find yourself out of debt faster than you thought possible.

Develop a plan To begin a recovery plan from debt, you first should develop a workable budget and spending plan. Do what’s necessary to establish a positive monthly cash flow.

Prioritize debt repayment — ensure minimum payments are made on all monthly bills, and then apply all remaining available funds to your debt repayment.

Prioritize repayments How can you get rid of your credit card debt? First, gather all your credit card bills together. For each account, write down the total balance, the minimum monthly payment required and the interest rate.

higher interest rates, more of your monthly payments go toward finance charges. Quickly paying off balances on your credit cards or loans with high rates can free up cash to pay other bills.

• Pay off cards with the smallest balances first. Paying off cards with small balances gives you extra money to pay on the bigger balances.

• Make PowerPayments. Once you pay off a bill, use that monthly amount you were paying and add it to the next highest interest rate card or loan payment on the remaining creditors. For example, let’s say you pay $30 a month to Creditor A. Once it’s paid off, you add $30 more to payment you make for Creditor B. Then when you’ve paid off Creditor B, add Creditor B’s monthly payment,

With a few smart moves and some time, you can make debt just another four-letter word.

Getting out debt may be easier than you think.

Then look at your debts and set priorities for your repayment. Which debt will you pay first?

• Pay high-rate cards or loans first. At 28

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • December 2013

including the $30 from Creditor A’s account, to the payment you make to pay Creditor C amount and so on until all accounts are paid in full.

Stop making new charges These plans only work if you don’t continue to add to your debt load. If you have to, have a “plastic surgery” party.

Cut up all your cards, hide them, freeze them in a block of ice or lock them in a drawer. Remember, out of sight, out of mind.

A great tool to use is the PowerPay computer program, developed by Utah State University Extension. It calculates the savings made when you make PowerPayments in three scenarios: 1) paying off creditors with the highest interest rates first, 2) paying off creditors with the lowest balances first and 3) paying off creditors with the shortest terms first.

How do you get started?

Go online to https://powerpay.org or call Army Community Service (253-967-1453) or the Airman & Family Readiness Center (253-982-2695) to schedule an appointment with a financial counselor or register for an upcoming class.

For a list of upcoming classes, visit the Event Calendar at JBLMmwr.com or like us on Facebook at fb.com/JBLMacs.

R

e

D

this holiday season

at the JBLM libraries & at home

‘Tis the season to be reading

Bring your kids to the McChord Library on Saturday, Jan. 11 for Paws to Read.

Young readers will have an opportunity to read to specially trained reading therapy dogs. Permission slips will need to be signed the day of the event. For more information, call 253-982-3454.

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is to

ph

er

Ga

yl o

rd

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Gu ard ian

Grandstaff Library is hosting a Holiday Open House Wednesday, Dec. 11, and the McChord Library Open House is Thursday, Dec. 12. The entire community is invited to both events, which are from 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Stop by to enjoy refreshments and

Throughout the year, we’re lucky to get a great selection of books to read. Here are the Top Ten Best Children’s Books of 2013.

1. The House of Hades (Heroes of Olympus Series, Book 4) by Rick Riordan 2. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Hard Luck (Book 8) by Jeff Kinney 3. The Surprise Attack of Jabba the Puppett (Origami Yoda Series, Book 4) by Tom Angleberger 4. Fancy Nancy: Nancy Clancy Sees the Future (Nancy Clancy Book 3)

by Jane O’Connor 5. A Hidden Enemy (Survivors Series, Book 2)

by Erin Hunter 6. The Sun Trail (Warriors: Dawn of the Clans, Book 1)

by Erin Hunter and Wayne McLoughlin 7. Theodore Boone: The Activist (Book 2) by John Grisham 8. The Last Emprex (Shark Wars Series, Book 6) by EJ Altbacker

Paws to Read at McChord Library

r th

You’re invited: Holiday open house

Top 10 books of the year

9. Storm of Sharks (The fifth book in the Wereworld series) by Curtis Jobling 10. Day of Doom (39 Clues: Cahills Vs. Vespers) By David Baldacci

No

Join in on the reading fun at JBLM libraries with the Winter Reading Program, ‘Tis the season to be reading.

If you’re looking for a way to encourage your children to read this winter — and especially during school break — sign them up to participate in the Winter Reading Program.

Stop by Book Patch Library or McChord Library to pick up an official reading log.

Your children will use the reading log to keep track of all the titles that they read (or, for younger readers, all the titles that you read to them). Once you’ve completed the reading log, turn it in for a prize!

The program runs through Friday, Jan. 3.

It’s not too late to sign up — it’s free and fun! Stop by Book Patch Library (2109 N. 10th St. at Pendleton Ave., Lewis Main) or McChord Library (851 Lincoln Blvd.) to get started today. For more information, call 253-967-5533 (Book Patch) or 253-982-3454 (McChord).

music. Plus you’ll have a chance to win a giveaway and meet your librarians and library staffers.

For additional information, call Grandstaff Library at 253-967-5889 or McChord Library at 253-982-3454.

JBLMmwr.com

29

30

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • December 2013

The Lower Tax Rate is Worth the Drive 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 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 responJanuary sible 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

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 office and emergency room visits  Free urgent care visits  Dedicated pediatric clinics- NEW  Free baby delivery in civilian hospitals

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

Now with locations near you—

Primary Care locations in King, Pierce and Thurston Counties

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.usfhpnw.org

TRICARE is a registered trademark of the Department of Defense, TRICARE Management Activity. All rights reserved.

Scan your smart phone here to learn more

JBLMmwr.com

31

ry a t i l i m % 10 discount l military *Additionaithin service discountpwartment de

You served our country, let us serve you.

7004 & 6647 S. Tacoma Way in Tacoma 8025 S. Tacoma Way in Lakewood • 253-507-8027 GTAutoSalesTacoma.com | Facebook.com/GTAutoSalesTacoma

Now offering a faster way to send money.

With Send Money Powered by PayPal*, you can instantly send money from your ACU account to another person using ACU’s Mobile App. Simply enter the recipient’s email address or mobile phone number and the amount you want to send. It’s secure and easy.

youracu.org *There is a $1 fee per Send Money transaction. Send up to $500 per transaction, $3,000 per day, and $10,000 per month.

32 Joint Base Lewis-McChord • December 2013 Photo courtesy of National Museum of Focus the US Airforce® Federally insured by NCUA.

253.964.3113