January 2013 JBLM MWR e-Focus

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

JANUARY 2013 • JBLMmwr.com

WARRIOR ZONE PLAY RELAX UNWIND GAME BIG-TV GAME VIEWING 1-YEAR ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION GAME NIGHTS

2013 BRINGS

GREAT FOOD SNOW-FILLED ADVENTURES FREE FUN WITH MWR

AEROBATHON & TRX 1 RESILIENCY JBLMmwr.com TRAINING


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RichmondAmerican.com/FOCUS

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*Earnest money deposit is required and will be credited to purchaser at closing. Amount of earnest money deposit varies by location. Financing is provided by HomeAmerican Mortgage Corporation (NMLS Unique Identifier #130676), which is licensed by the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (CL-130676). Financing is available only to owner occupants who are qualified to participate in mortgage loan programs offered by the Department of Veterans Affairs and is subject to legal requirements and availability, VA maximum loan limits, a debt-to-income ratio of 41% or less, a maximum 100% loan-to-value ratio, qualification using full documentation and a minimum FICO score of 620. ©2012 Richmond American Homes, Richmond American Homes of Washington, Inc.

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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • January 2013


CONTENTS FOOD & FUN

6–11

FAMILY & THE HOMEFRONT

12–17

ADVENTURES

18–25

FEELIN’ GOOD

26–27

LEARNING & EARNING

28–29

Best ways to winter-proof your Family; free stuff to do with us; get your meals any way you like ‘em

Take a virtual tour of JBLM; learn to bounce back from pressures with resiliency training

Winter recreation’s in full gear, such as Family snowtubing, snowshoe and ski trips and a ton more fun

Have fun at free aerobathon; try a new challenge with TRX suspension training; get involved with intramural sports

Mike Brumm

Above: The Northwest Adventure Center loves the snow! They even teach you how to camp outdoors overnight in comfort in the snow. Hard to believe? Sign up for one of their winter survival campouts. Find many more snow activities starting on page 18.

FROM THE COVER

Plan ways to reach your big New Year goals with free help from JBLM experts; declare 2013 as the year of books

by Ken Dietiker

Warrior Zone’s your play zone

There are a lot of bowl games this season and the Warrior Zone at Lewis North is showing them all! Plenty of food & beverages, pool tables, gaming computers, Xbox, PlayStation, movies and more are available for ages 18 and older. JBLMmwr.com

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Take 2013 by the reins Happy New Year from Family and MWR! I invite you to take 2013 by the reins — literally. Join the JBLM Outdoor Recreation Program on a horseback riding trip in the shadow of Mount Rainier. You can also hit the slopes for Military Appreciation Day or a fun afternoon snowtubing. For a complete list of upcoming adventure trips, turn to page 20. If you want to work on your fitness level this year, start with the aerobathon. This free event offers you hours of classes to choose from and a chance to win a spa gift certificate (see page 26). Want to save more money this year or plan for retirement? Find advice from the money experts at the Financial Readiness Program on page 28. Whether you want to manage debt or quit smoking, they have valuable information for you. Leave the office for lunch, and have a hot meal with MWR. There are a number of diners offering fresh made-to-order food. Check out the Habañero Mexican Grill specials on page 7. Plus, German Buffet is back! No matter your hobbies and interests, we have something for you this year, so come out and have some fun! After you’ve attended one of our events or visited any of our facilities, take a few minutes to share your thoughts with me at http://ice.disa.mil.

FOCUS JBLM

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

William E. Harvey

Creative director Toby Bartley Promotions director

Kelly Wetzel

Editor & graphic designer Writer/graphic designer

Kimberly Rowe Patti Jeffrey

Contributors Mary Cron, Joseph Jimenez, Priscilla Nastasia Contributing photographers Toby Bartley, Mike Brumm, Ursula Buford, Robert Conrad, Ken Dietiker, Emiliano Hernandez and Bryan Holloman Send submissions to kimberly.rowe@us.army.mil. For commercial sponsorship or advertising inquiries, off-base businesses should contact Carly Michael at 253-966-2256 or 253-324-0562. The JBLM “FOCUS” is an unofficial information source published monthly. All activities described herein, which are open to authorized patrons and, where applicable, guests, are subject to change; contact the activity for confirmation. Opinions are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent FMWR, Joint Base Lewis-McChord or any U.S. government entity. The use of a commercial sponsor logo or mention of a commercial sponsor or other organization does not constitute U.S. government endorsement. Submissions are welcome but may be edited for accuracy, clarity and style.

Visit Joint Base Lewis-McChord Family and MWR at JBLMmwr.com or search for Lewis-McChord MWR on Facebook.com.

William E. Harvey Director, Family & MWR at JBLM

OVER 400 TRUCKS & SUVS AT THE LARGEST TRUCK CENTER ON THE WEST COAST

Mariners All-Star

Jay Buhner

NWMS Military Liaison

Rick Schatz

call 253-312-0717 tell ‘em

Rick Schatz

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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • January 2013

sent you


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

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JBLMmwr.com

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Food & fun

Try a hearty lunch in a classy setting at Globemaster Grill Dine at private booths and spacious tables set in a classy multi-level atmosphere at Globemaster Grill, located at McChord Field in the McChord Club. Hearty meals are the specialty of the house with made-to-order grilled burgers and sandwiches, gourmet salads, soups, combos and the chef’s daily blue-plate special. Save extra on Wednesdays with the “Hump Day” burger, fries and soda combo. The grill is open for lunch Monday through Friday, 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Wednesday nights, Globemaster is open for an all-you-can-eat Spaghetti Bar from 4:30–6 p.m. The cost is $6 per person for nonmembers, $3 per person for McChord Club members. Call 253-982-7600 for more details.

German Buffet’s back at the McChord Club Pile your plate high with Bavarian favorites at the all-you-can-eat German Buffet Thursday, Jan. 17, 5–8 p.m. at the McChord Club. Fill up on schnitzel, bratwurst and more. The cost is $16.95 for adults; $6.95 for children ages 4–10. Reservations are required; call 253-982-5581.

Bump that afternoon slump Need a delicious pick-me-up after lunch? For only $2, order an 8-oz. latte or mocha from noon–2 p.m. weekdays with AFC Arena Battle Bean Café’s “Bump the Slump.” AFC Arena Battle Bean is located at 2275 Liggett Ave. at Lewis Main.

Globemaster Grill inside the McChord Club (700 Barnes Blvd.) offers a variety of lunches, including soups, gourmet salads, burgers, grilled sandwiches, specials of the day and grab ‘n go items. The diner is open for lunch from 11 a.m.–1 p.m. weekdays.

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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • January 2013

Ursula Buford


Habañero Mexican Grill offers half off — and more If you haven’t yet experienced Habañero Mexican Grill at Whispering Firs Golf Course, come on over for huge freshly made burritos, tacos, salads, soups and more. Grab a friend and get started with a new lunchtime offer — buy one lunch and get the second lunch (of equal or lesser value) half off every Monday and Wednesday (beverage not included). Tuesdays and Thursdays in January, get a cheese quesadilla, soup of the day and fountain drink for only $7. If you like huge burritos, try the ultimate challenge: Order a 6-lb. burrito called “The Hump,” offered only on Wednesdays from 11 a.m.–2 p.m. If you can eat it by yourself in 45 minutes, it’s yours for free. Regular price is $14.95 if you want to share it around the table.

The Bistro at Russell Landing offers more choices, specials The Bistro at Russell Landing, tucked away on the shore of American Lake at Lewis North, is not shy about its menu, service or specials. They want everyone in on their secret to success — responding quickly to customer input for a great experience every time. The Bistro has changed its lunch menu to include burgers and fries, and soup, salad and sandwich combos as well as flatbread pizzas and pasta dishes. The dinner menu includes steaks, pork chops, salmon, chicken and other entrees with plenty of sides and appetizers. Regular patrons have known for a while that the Bistro offers daily specials Monday–Friday, but now everyone can know what’s coming up with the

month’s specials posted online at Facebook.com/BistroatRussellLanding and at JBLMmwr.com. The staff invites you to try the Bistro’s brand-new specials that are easy on your wallet: • Friday Family Pizza Extravaganza through January. For $20, you receive two 12-inch thin-crust pizzas, a big bowl of tossed Caesar salad, two pitchers of soda and free balloons for children. (Pizzas exclude The Landing and Tropical Chix.) • Saturday Date Night through January. For $30, each couple receives all-inclusive meals, including an appetizer for two, two entrees with

sides and two desserts. • For a limited time, the Bistro also offers a $2 one-topping kid’s pizza with the purchase of an adult meal. • Order a Family Meal Deal To-Go special through February: Pick up spaghetti bolognese for four, garlic bread and a 2-liter bottle of Pepsi for only $15 on Fridays from 3–9 p.m. and Saturdays from 5–9 p.m. • Delight your loved one with the Bistro’s romantic Valentine Dinner Thursday, Feb. 14. Reservations recommended but not required. For a complete menu, look online at JBLMmwr.com under dining. Call 253-964-2813 for more details.

-——--——--- Exclusive McChord Club Member Specials --—-——-——Friday, Jan. 25

5–8 p.m.

2-for-1 Steak Night; $14.95 for two people

Wednesday, Jan. 30 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Member Appreciation Luncheon; free for card holders; $5 for Family members Two-fer-Tuesdays 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Two meals for the price of one at Globemaster Grill Wednesdays & Fridays 5 p.m. start Bar Bingo with $800–$1,195 jackpot in Globemaster Grill Fridays 5–6 p.m. Free food in Globemaster Grill While American Lake Community Center is closed for renovation, the McChord Club is happy to cater your parties. Call the catering manager at 253-982-5581 for more information. Clip & save

Make a healthy start in the new year! Take $1 off any salad at AFC Arena Battle Bean Café! Offer good Jan. 1–31, 2013. No cash value. Limit one coupon per customer.

JBLMmwr.com

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Food & fun

See free Family concert, ‘Peter and the Wolf’ The Tacoma Symphony Orchestra is coming to JBLM to present a free Family concert, “Peter and the Wolf” by Sergei Prokofiev Saturday, Jan. 19. Come early to the Evergreen Theater at Lewis Main to see and touch the instruments at the “musical petting zoo” — the flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, horn, strings and drums that represent the different characters. The musical petting zoo opens at 1:30 p.m.; the concert begins at 2:30 p.m. Seating is limited and is on a firstcome, first-seated basis. No tickets are required to get in the concert. The Evergreen Theater is located at

3405 2nd Division. For recorded information, call 253-477-4299.

Homebrewers invited to compete in sanctioned event If you’re a homebrewer and think you make mighty fine brew, you’re invited to compete for “The Best of JBLM 2013.” Get ready to enter your best batches into the McChord Community Center’s upcoming sanctioned competition. The winners will be featured at the 2013 Brewfest Friday, Feb. 22. Submissions and samples are being accepted through Friday, Feb. 15 at 6 p.m. They’ll be judged by certified experts and awarded prizes and medals. Each competitor needs to provide three bottles with the proper AHA Bottle identification and America

Homebrewers Association Entry and Recipe Form. Applications and rules can be downloaded from JBLMmwr.com or picked up at the McChord Community Center, 700 Barnes Blvd. at McChord Field. Call 253-982-0718 for more information.

Enter one-day Texas Hold ‘Em to win big The McChord Community Center invites you to enter a one-day Texas Hold ‘Em Saturday, Jan. 26 with prizes that include $500, $400 and $300 gift cards. Registration begins at 1 p.m. and costs $18 for your poker chips and a light buffet. A cash bar is also available. Play starts at 1:30 p.m. For more details, call 253-982-0718.

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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • January 2013

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Heroes Lounge is your karaoke and deejay dance headquarters Heroes Sports Lounge loves the nightlife! Look at all you can do: • Drop by Fridays and Saturdays for karaoke and deejay dancing starting at 9 p.m. • Try your hand at free bar bingo Tuesdays at 7 p.m. with purchase of food or drink. You can always drop by for free darts and pool. In January, doors are open Monday through Saturday. Heroes Lounge is inside Cascade Community Center at 2400 Bitar & S. Division at Lewis Main.

Time on the practice equipment improves your swing at Eagles Pride Golf Course The winter weather keeps some golfers from getting on the course as often as they’d like. You don’t have to let the rainy, cold weather keep you from improving your swing at Eagles Pride Golf Course. Spend some time on the MEGSA PPE and make a positive swing change quickly. (MEGSA stands for Most Efficient Golf Swing Attainable, and PPE stands for Perfect Practice Equipment.) The MEGSA was invented by Mike Bender, a national top-10 golf instructor, and is the result of a 13-year project to help golfers of all abilities improve in the shortest amount of time possible.

For more information, call Eagles Pride at 253-967-6522. Take Exit 116 off I-5 to get to the public course.

Play at the Warrior Zone Banish your boredom for free — there’s plenty to do at the Warrior Zone at Lewis North. Catch all the football bowl games in the Warrior Zone on your choice of 53 TVs. Tuesdays, play in eight-ball tourneys; Wednesdays get in on Texas Hold ‘Em and table games; find Xbox challenges Thursdays and see free movies in the theater room with a 15-foot screen and surround sound. The Warrior Zone is located on the corner of 17th and D streets. Call 253-477-5756 for more info. Open to ages 18 and older only.

Sounders Lanes is fun for less Check out January savings at Sounders Lanes Bowling Center at McChord Field: • 75-cent bowling and 75-cent shoe rental for seniors and retirees Wednesdays from 11 a.m.–9 p.m. and Thursdays from 11 a.m.–5 p.m. • $1.50 Wednesdays: Get bowling, shoe rental, soda, fries and drafts for $1.50 each. • Glow-in-the-dark bowling: Fridays, bowl from 9 p.m.–midnight for $10 per person, plus shoe rental. Saturdays, each lane is $36 for up to six people from 7 p.m.–midnight. • Compete in Sounders Lanes’ monthly

Nine-Pin No-Tap Tournament Saturday, Jan. 12 at 12:30 p.m. Check in at noon. For more information, call Sounders Lanes at 253-982-5954.

Find winter specials at Whispering Firs, plus enter January golf tournament Keep your competitive edge sharp! Enter Whispering Firs Golf Course’s “Red T” Tournament Saturday, Jan. 19 for $10 per golfer plus a greens fee. The format is stroke play/gross and net. Also practice on the driving range with two-for-one range buckets weekdays. For more information or tourney entry details, call 253-982-4927. Whispering Firs is open to ID cardholders and their guests and is located at 895 Lincoln Blvd. at McChord Field.

Plenty of pampering at the 2013 Care Fair If you’re a woman who likes (and needs) to be pampered and pleased, plan to spend the day at the free 2013 Operation Care Fair Saturday, Feb. 9, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. at the McChord Club/ Community Center, 700 Barnes Blvd. at McChord Field. Free formal dresses and shoes also will be given away starting at 10 a.m. until supplies run out. More information will be available in the next Focus issue and at our website at JBLMmwr.com. JBLMmwr.com

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Food & fun

Class participants at JBLM

Ursula Buford

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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • January 2013


Find free recreation, classes, training and events — the info’s all online at JBLMmwr.com

Watch the Big Sunday Game at Feb. 3 parties!

If you dig a little into the JBLMmwr.com website, you’ll find information on all sorts of freebies to entertain, equip and inform you and your Family. Here are a few treasures waiting especially for you: • Free gaming areas at Grandstaff Library at Lewis Main and the McChord Library at McChord Field, including Xbox, Wii and PlayStation. You also can choose from thousands of games to check out and play at home. • Free movies at the McChord Theater every Saturday at 1120 Jackson Blvd., McChord Field (across the street from Sounders Lanes). Saturday movies show at 4 and 7 p.m. Concessions are available for purchase inside the lobby. To see what’s playing, visit JBLMmwr.com under McChord Theater. • Free tax preparation, job fairs, parenting workshops, marriage seminars, financial management counseling, Family resiliency workshops and much more on the Army Community Service pages on our website. Also find current information on their Facebook page at Facebook.com/JBLMACS. All seminars and workshops are open to Soldiers, Airmen, Reserve, Guard, their Families and JBLM civilians. For this month’s highlights, turn to page 17. • Free downloads of e-books, e-Audiobooks, e-videos and e-music from the library page’s link on JBLMmwr.com. All you need is your JBLM library login. • Free language courses online — find the link on the library page on our website. • Free children’s storytime and crafts. Book Patch Library at Lewis Main holds theirs Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. and McChord Library has theirs Thursdays at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. For more library events, see page 29. • Free indoor swimming and aerobics classes at JBLM. For current schedules, visit the Intramural Sports & Fitness page and Pools page on our website. • Free indoor rock wall climbing at the Hillside Youth Center/Teen Zone. The staff provides all safety equipment. Your child must be registered with Child, Youth & School Services. Call 253-966-CYSS for more details. There are a lot more freebies you can dig up; keep on visiting our website — JBLMmwr.com — for updates and new events!

We’re gearing up for great Big Game parties in several locations at Lewis Main and Lewis North for ages 18 and older! Come out to watch the game with the gang Sunday, Feb. 3. Watch the action on a whopping 92-inch screen in Heroes Sports Lounge from 2–9 p.m. Free chili is available during half-time, and other food and beverages are available for purchase. Heroes Lounge is located at Bitar and S. Division inside Cascade Community Center. Call 253-964-0331 for more details. The Warrior Zone at Lewis North has a multitude of big screens and TV monitors located throughout the facility. Sign up for a Madden 13 tournament and a “football squares” game. Also get in on food specials and door prizes. The Warrior Zone is on the corner of 17th and D streets. Call 253-477-5756 for more information. At Nelson Recreation Center, watch the big game on a movie screen in cushy comfort. Nelson Rec is located at 3168 2nd Division Dr. at Lewis Main. Call 253-967-2539 for additional info.

Free vehicle inspection for Families with deployed spouses Is your spouse deployed and you’re wondering about when to get an oil change, lube or fluid refill on your vehicle? Make an appointment for a free 16-point inspection with your JBLM Auto Centers. All you need is a copy of your spouse’s orders when you arrive for your appointment. Call the McChord Auto Center at 253-982-7226 or the Lewis Main Auto Center at 253-967-3728 during business hours. Sports & Fitness Centers not only get in shape, but have a blast doing it. Find the free class schedules at JBLMmwr.com.

JBLMmwr.com

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Family & the homefront

Rain or shine, JBLM’s a

With new video, teens share secrets of fun at JBLM By Joseph S. Jimenez, Public Affairs Officer, DoD’s National Center for Telehealth & Technology

M

oving to JBLM? If you’re a teen and wondering if you’ll like it here, take a look at the new video for teens with MWR’s CYS Services teen programs at JBLMmwr.com/ CYS.htm. Teens in the Child and Youth Programs on base give incoming teens a firsthand look at the fun “hangouts” at JBLM. Narrated and hosted by Kathleen Ballweber, the video is a whirlwind tour of the places teens enjoy on base. The JBLM Teen Tours of Military Bases video was produced by the DoD’s National Center for Telehealth and

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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • January 2013

Technology, known as T2, and JBLM’s MWR. Teens volunteered to tell their story, in their own words, about fun things to do on the base. “The kids want new teens coming here to know we have great places to connect with other kids and enjoy their time at JBLM,” said Thomas Harris, CYS Services youth administrator. “We know that moving is hard on kids,” said Dr. Kelly Blasko, a psychologist at T2. “Our video shows their new home in a way that makes sense to them and reduces the stress of moving.” Blasko led the development of , a DoD website for military children

of deployed parents. The website helps kids adjust to the separation during deployments. Making a video about being separated from friends and school fit perfectly into helping kids deal with the separations of a military lifestyle. The JBLM teen tour video is the first of a series of videos for military installations. Ten videos of Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps installations are planned this year. To watch the JBLM Teen Tours of Military Bases video, visit JBLMmwr. com/cys and look for the “Moving to JBLM” button with the School Age, Middle School & Teen info. The video is also at https://MilitaryKidsConnect. org (look for the Teen Tour on the corkboard).


great place for teens

Photos pulled from T2 video

With a free CYS Services registration, your teens — and middle school students — will have access to great programs and fun events. Get a virtual tour from the teens themselves — Kathleen Ballweber, Ernesto Corral-Pena and Gjoi McMillian (pictured, from left) host a video about fun things to do on base. Find the link for the video, plus program information and registration requirements at JBLMmwr.com/cys.

Two locations for fun, friends & special events Teens and middle school students are invited to stop by the Teen Zone and the McChord Youth Center for afterschool and weekend fun. The Teen Zone is hosting: • Middle school dance Friday, Jan. 4, 7–9 p.m. • High school dance Friday, Jan. 11, 8–10 p.m. • Xbox 2K13 tournament Saturday, Jan. 12, 3 p.m. • Martin Luther King Jr. celebration Friday, Jan. 18, 6 p.m. • Laser Quest field trip Wednesday, Jan. 23 • Movie night Friday, Jan. 25, 7 p.m.

• Babysitting course Friday, Jan. 25 and Saturday, Jan. 26. For more information about Teen Zone events, call 253-967-4441. McChord Youth Center is hosting: • All-girls lock-in Saturday, Jan. 12 at 8 p.m. through 7 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 13 • Snowboarding at Snoqualmie Pass all-day fun one Saturday in January; weather-dependent (check with the center for details) • Hail and Farewell/Family Night Event Friday, Jan. 25, 7–10 p.m. For more information about the McChord Youth Center’s events, call 253-982-2203.

Teen Zone 6397 Garcia Blvd. Lewis Main Hillside Housing Area Monday–Thursday, 2–8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 2–10 p.m. McChord Youth Center 3032 Dogwood St. at McChord Field Monday–Thursday, 2:30–8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 2:30–9 p.m. The last Friday of the month is “late night” for grades 9–12; the McChord Youth Center stays open until 10. Before-school care Offered at both locations weekdays, 5:30–8 a.m. You must be registered with CYS Services to attend these events. It’s free to sign up — turn to page 14 for details.

JBLMmwr.com

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Family & the homefront

Time to prep for college, apply for scholarships

Graduation will be here before you know it

For many teens, it’s time to prepare for life after high school. If you’re planning to head to college, the School Liaison Office can help.

SAT/ACT PowerPrep program Military Families can receive SAT and ACT test prep programs for the cost of materials and shipping. Retailing at $200, the PowerPrep Programs include more than 11 hours of video instruction and 3,000 files of test prep materials, sample questions and practice tests and is made possible by eKnowledge. For more information and eligibility, visit eKnowledge.com/JBLM or call 941-256-4076. No federal endorsement implied.

GEAR UP! — Save the date Save the date for The Evergreen State College GEAR UP Program, which is presented in partnership with the School Liaison Office Saturday, Feb. 23, 9:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. at Evergreen Elementary School at Lewis Main. Students in the 10th and 11th grades, along with their parents/guardians, are invited to this free information fair to help prepare you for high school completion and college preparation. For details, visit Evergreen.edu/GearUp.

Choose a school; find the money Did you know that military Families stationed in Washington on active duty receive in-state tuition? Check out the list of technical and community colleges at JBLMmwr.com for a list of some of the local higher education options. Navigate to the School Liaison Office page under Child, Youth & School Services. 14

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • January 2013

On the School Liaison Office pages, you’ll also find a list of scholarships for military Families. The list includes nearly two dozen military-related scholarships. Go to JBLMmwr.com and

find the list to start applying today! Learn more about the School Liaison Office’s mission and services in next month’s issue. Plus, check JBLMmwr.com/cys for a survey at the end of the month — complete it and you can enter to win a TV.

Child, Youth & School Services round-up Family Child Care provides quality care, career opportunity If you’d like to provide child care in your JBLM home, apply to become a Family Child Care provider. The next orientation is Tuesday, Jan. 15, 6–8 p.m., with provisional classes Jan. 28, 29, 31 and Feb. 1, 5 & 7. Pick up an application at 2013B N. 3rd St. (Room 127) at Lewis Main. For more information, call 253-967-3039. Registration is free & easy! Stop by Parent Central to register your Family — find requirements at JBLMmwr.com/cys. Once you’re registered, you can use WebTrac to sign up for sports, SKIESUnlimited, hourly care and more.

Sign up for soccer, coaching Bumblebee soccer is open to youth ages 3–4 for $20, and soccer is open to ages 5–15 for $55. Practices begin Feb. 25. Sign up at Parent Central or online with WebTrac by Feb. 1. If you’re interested in coaching, call the Youth Sports Office at 253-967-2405.

Dance, make music with SKIESUnlimited Sign up now for February’s classes. Choose from music, art, theater and a variety of sports (karate, boxing and more). Enrollment is on a monthly basis. For a schedule and registration information, go to JBLMmwr.com and click on WebTrac.


January 27 noon – 5 p.m. 18+ only

· FREE & REDUCED PRICE FOOD & BEVERAGES · WINTER BBQ ON THE HEATED PATIO · HOURLY DOORPRIZES · TOURNAMENTS

No federal endorsement implied

For more information call 253-477-5756 JBLMmwr.com

JBLMmwr.com

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Family & the homefront

Bounce, Don’t Break: Res By Priscilla Nastasia, JBLM Army Community Service

W

ith all the stress that can sometimes accompany military life, the Department of Defense is going beyond simply acknowledging the unique pressures related to military service. Top leaders have made it a stated goal to build Service Member, Family and civilian employee resilience.

As part of that effort, Army Community Service Master Resiliency Trainers at Joint Base Lewis-McChord instituted a Civilian and Family Member Resiliency Academy. Resiliency training is part of the Comprehensive Soldier & Family Fitness Program and seeks to provide Family members and DoD civilians with the skills to become more selfaware, self-regulating, optimistic and mentally agile while fostering greater connections to the overall community. In addition, they develop a deeper understanding of their own strengths of character, to build on the best of themselves and the best of others.

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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • January 2013

Jo Dempsey, certified MRT and the ACS Family Services Program Manager, says it’s an important part of Comprehensive Soldier & Family Fitness. “One of the greatest things about the resiliency training is that it gives Service Members and their spouses a common language as they begin using the skills,

and people leave excited about everything they have learned about themselves!” Resiliency training uses a combination of interactive exercises and lecture format that foster personal growth — the overarching goal is to enable participants to not just “get through” or


siliency at JBLM survive difficult situations but to grow and thrive in the face of challenges and bounce back from adversity. The program builds the core competencies that enable mental toughness and optimal performance. The Resiliency Academy motto is to bounce, not break! New Army spouse and recent Academy graduate, Rachel Turner, says “I think it is a great course. Everything I learned in that course applies to my job, my personal life, and how to communicate more effectively. Also, learning mental toughness was so beneficial.” According to Turner, one of the greatest takeaways from the course was meeting the other military spouses, because making those connections is a huge part of just learning from their experience, and everyone has different experiences. Ruth Fuller, one of the team’s MRTs, states that her favorite skill both personally and to teach, is “Detecting Icebergs.” She says that many times people have the same argument over and over, never realizing that they’re arguing over related events, rather than what’s really going on. The Detecting Icebergs lesson allows you to have the

“right conversation,” and lowers the intensity of emotions, leading to greater awareness and understanding about the causes of a reaction and helping you to be thoughtful rather than reactive. Turner agrees, noting that she uses this skill in every area of her life, including her job that includes interacting with other cultures. The MRT Team is currently developing a new delivery format, which will consist of monthly modularized sessions. The modular format will accommodate more people’s schedules. The basic idea is that there will be certain pre-requisite modules, but then participants will be able to take modules each month as their schedule allows. Classes will be held at two locations: ACS (Waller Hall at Lewis Main) and the Airman & Family Readiness Center at McChord Field. A complete schedule of classes is available on the event calendar at JBLMmwr.com, as well on the ACS Facebook page (Facebook.com/JBLMACS)and various locations at JBLM. If you’re interested in attending the Resiliency Academy or would like more information, call 253-967-3544 or 253-982-2695.

Ski or board Crystal Mountain with the JBLM Outdoor Recreation Program Thursday, Feb. 7. Only $45 Have your own gear? Pay just $25 Purchase half-price lift tickets at the mountain; details page 20.

Free readiness seminars with ACS From deployment, reunion, professional training and more, Army Community Service has you covered. First Sergeant Spouse Seminar Prepare for your new role as the First Sergeant’s spouse with a twoday seminar Thursday, Jan. 10 and Friday, Jan. 11 from 9 a.m.–2:30 p.m. Learn to take on the role of an informed, involved, productive and proactive member of the command team. You’ll become familiar with community resources and learn to be successful. To register, call the Family Resource Center at 253-967-9496. If you’re a current or former First Sergeant spouse interested in sharing your experience during the seminar, call Army Family Team Building at 253-967-AFTB. Mobilization & Deployment If you’re preparing for a reunion or deployment, sign up for these free classes: • Predeployment: Jan. 8, 10–11 a.m. • Reunion: Jan. 8, 5:30–7 p.m. • Children & Deployment: Jan. 14, 10–11 a.m. Find a complete schedule on the event calendar at JBLMmwr.com. JBLMmwr.com

17


Adventures

When you travel to the mountains and go on trips, you need to be prepared for whatever winter brings.

18

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • January 2013


by Patti Jeffrey

I

t was early winter when my husband and I were driving to Spokane to spend time with his Family. I breathed a sigh of relief as we crossed Snoqualmie Pass Summit without incident. The road was clear, except for a small car behind us. From my rearview mirror, I saw the small VW suddenly spin out of control. I checked my speed — 45 mph — and realized I was floating atop the road. We had hit black ice. I said to my husband, “We should slow down now!” as I gently touched the brakes. In a flash, the world spun around until we landed with a thud in a 5-foot pile of snow in the median. We got out to clear the tailpipe from snow and kept our car warm by running it intermittently for three hours until a tow truck finally showed up. As with us, any winter pleasure trip can go horribly wrong in a flash — even when you think you’re prepared for spending long periods outdoors or in your vehicle.

Beware of cotton Build a more solid bubble of protection with these surprising tips from your outdoor recreation experts. “Cotton kills,” says Robert Wade Conrad from the Northwest Adventure Center. He explains that cotton, while refreshing to wear in summer because it keeps you cool, sucks away vital heat in winter. He calls cotton a “negative insulator.” When recreating outdoors in freezing weather, wear lots of various-thickness layers from the sports and sleepwear sections of the store — polyester underwear and T-shirts, poly-fleece pj bottoms, tops and sweatpants, synthe-

tic-fiber leggings, poly-fleece or nylon-fiber-filled vests, silk or bamboo tops and bottoms. Top off your layers with windand rain-resistant jackets and coats. Also bring along a waterproof hooded poncho for occasional downpours.

Socks are tops “Socks are more important than shoes for keeping feet warm,” Conrad says. If you wear quality hiking or boot socks made of wool blends or bulky synthetic fibers, even if your shoes get soaked, the heat won’t be pulled away from your feet. For walking on hilly trails, wear a stiff-soled shoe or boot, advises Conrad. The soles will do the work of keeping you level on hills rather than wearing out your leg muscles. Get boots or shoes that fit your heels snugly so your ankles don’t rub and get blisters. Bring an extra hat, gloves and socks for each person on your trip, and keep them in a plastic bag so they won’t get wet. Once you get back to your car, you’ll need to replace your soggy socks and hats with dry ones to maintain your body heat. If you’re new to a colder climate or have little or no experience in snow or frigid weather, bring an experienced person or guide with you when you’re trekking outdoors. Knowledgeable guides lead group trips from the Northwest Adventure Center. You can learn to snowshoe, cross-country ski, camp in the snow and much more! Read on for a vari-

ety of winter adventures. For more advice, drop by and ask the experts. They’ll be happy to help! JBLMmwr.com

19


Adventures

N E W Y E A R F R E S H S N O W 20

THE SNOW’S FALLING SO HIT THE TUBING HILL, IN THE MOUNTAINS, THE SLOPES AND THE SNOW-COVERED TRAILS WITH THE JBLM OUTDOOR RECREATION PROGRAM. YOU’LL HAVE FUN SWOOSHING DOWN THE MOUNTAIN ... AND MAYBE THROWING A SNOWBALL OR TWO. DON’T LET THE DROPPING TEMPERATURES KEEP YOU INSIDE — SIGN UP FOR A TRIP TODAY AND YOU’LL FIND OUT THERE’S NO BETTER PLACE TO BE THIS WINTER.

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • January 2013


Have fun flying down the snow-covered hill! There are three trips scheduled to the tubing hill at The Summit — sign up for one (or all three) today.

After-work kayak skills class Learn self-rescue techniques and other paddling skills from the safety of the indoor pool. Learn the skills you need to become more confident on open water kayaking trips from the safety of the indoor pool. The focus is on self-rescue techniques and other paddling skills. This skills class is Wednesday, Feb. 13. Minimum age: 12 ($20)

Bavarian Ice Fest Spend the day in a traditional Bavarian village sledding,

eating bratwurst, shopping and enjoying the winter wonderland that is Leavenworth, Wash. As the trip comes to an end and the sun has set, watch as the town is transformed into a beautiful lighted display. The trip, which is Saturday, Jan. 19, is fun for the entire Family. ($35; ages 6–12: $25; ages 5 and younger: $5)

Bungee jumping Are you brave enough to jump off the highest bungee bridge in the country? Head to the

base of Mount St. Helens to make the jump twice! A full 20 stories high, the spectacular private bridge is nestled in a beautiful emerald green forest above a majestic sparkling river. If you’re an adrenaline-seeker, you don’t need to look any further than this Sunday, Jan. 20 trip. Fee includes the coveted Dangerous Sports Club T-shirt; bragging rights are free. Minimum weight: 90 lbs. ($135) Trip descriptions continued on next page.

JBLMmwr.com

21


Adventures

Choose from three tubing trips at the Summit — it’s fun for all ages, so sign up the entire Family! Robert Conrad

22

Head to Hurricane Ridge Sunday, Feb. 3 for a snowshoeing adventure.

Cross-country ski Lake Easton What

Cross-country ski Keechelus Lake

noon horseback ride. No experience is

do you get when you combine short trails, rolling hills, groomed runs and beautiful views? A beautiful day of cross-country skiing at Lake Easton! Join us as we head east toward Cle Elum for this great trip Sunday, Jan. 20. Difficulty: moderate; distance: 5 miles; time: 3 hours. Minimum age: 12 ($40)

Spend a day in the snow-filled Cascades

necessary. Bring the entire Family along

skiing along Keechelus Lake! Head

for a great day Friday, Feb. 9. Minimum

toward Snoqualmie Pass Sunday, Feb. 3.

age: 7 ($80)

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • January 2013

Difficulty: easy; distance: 5 miles; time: 3 hours. Minimum age: 12 ($40)

Military Appreciation Day at Crystal

Horseback riding Head to Elbe, a town

Crystal for half-price! Military Appreci-

in the outskirts of Mount Rainier Na-

ation Day is Thursday, Feb. 7, and we’re

tional Park, for a 2-hour guided after-

providing your ride to the mountain

Don’t miss the chance to ski or ride


Bryan Holloman

Robert Conrad

(and gear, if needed). Lift tickets should be purchased at the mountain. ($45; transportation only is $25)

Moonlight snowshoe Gold Creek Pond Snowshoe along the Snoqualmie Pass trails by the light of the moon, Saturday, Jan. 19. Difficulty: beginner; distance: 1.5 miles; time: 2 hours; elevation gain: 50 feet. Minimum: age: 12 ($35)

Explore Glacier Vista with a snowshoe trip to Paradise Sunday, Jan. 27. Plus snowshoe by moonlight Saturday, Jan. 19 at Gold Creek Pond.

even offers tubing, snowshoeing and dog sledding, so you can try something new during this getaway. The trip is Jan. 18–21; the package includes three nights’ lodging (and, of course, transportation and gear. Make sure you stop by the Northwest Adventure

Ski Resort. Hit the slopes Sunday, Feb. 10. ($50; transportation only is $30)

Ski-n-snowboard the Summit Head to the snow with us! Spend the day at the Summit at Snoqualmie Saturday, Feb. 2. ($45; transportation only is $25)

Center prior to the trip to be fitted for

Ski-n-snowboard White Pass Travel to

your gear). Lift tickets are not included

White Pass for a great time on the slopes Saturday, Jan. 26. The pass is hosting the “Cross-Country Ski & Snowshoe Jamboree,” so you’ll have the added option of taking to the trails to cross-country ski or snowshoe (this gear will be available for rent at the pass). Lift tickets can be purchased at JBLMmwr.com. ($50; transportation only: $30. The Lessons Package includes lift ticket and lesson for $100)

but can be purchased at the mountain.

Mount Bachelor ski weekend Spend

Trip cost is based on room occupancy

Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday weekend at Mount Bachelor, one of the largest resorts in North America. Mount Bachelor offers skiers, snowboarders and Nordic skiers’ great conditions, plenty of snow, big terrain and short lift lines. It also features four different terrain parks and an Olympic-sized superpipe. Mount Bachelor

— single-occupancy rate: $510 each; double-occupancy rate: $375 each; triple-occupancy rate: $340 each; four people to a room: $320 each.

Ski-n-snowboard Mission Ridge Tired of the rain? Travel across the mountains to central Washington for a day of skiing at the beautiful Mission Ridge

Trip descriptions continued on next page.

JBLMmwr.com

23


Adventures Snowmobile the Cascades For those seeking a fun-filled winter experience, give snowmobiling a try! The trip will bring you fun, action, beauty and excitement as you zip through the snow of the Cascade Mountains Saturday, Feb. 2. Not only are snowmobiles provided, but helmet, boots, gloves and snowsuit are as well. Be sure to dress in layers. ($160; adult passengers: $90; passengers 15 and younger: $60) Minimum age to drive: 16

Family & Morale, Welfare & Recreation

ium. ($35; ages 4–12: $25; ages 3 and younger: $5)

Snowshoe Paradise Explore Mount

overnight trip will teach participants

Snowtubing Bundle up and get ready to go for a wild ride! Travel to one of Washington’s greatest tubing hills for a fun-filled day in the snow. Tubing’s a blast for all ages, so bring the entire Family. Snow tubes provided. Choose from three trips: Saturday, Jan. 26, Friday, Feb. 1 (the kids don’t have school; what a great way to spend the day!) and Sunday, Feb. 10. ($35; ages 6–12: $25; ages 5 and younger: $5)

Visit Seattle Aquarium and Pike Place Market Go to the Seattle Aquarium and Pike Place Market for a great day sight-seeing Sunday, Jan. 27. The aquarium is filled with local exhibits, a visiting harbor seal and many amazing things to see and touch — a favorite of kids of all ages. Pike Place Market has an assortment of unique food to try and shops to check out. Fee includes admission to the aquarJoint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • January 2013

Go to the we site above, loobfor this butto k and save big n on lift tickets and more!

Joint Base Lewis - McChord MWR

Snowshoe Hurricane Ridge Discover the beauty of the Olympic Mountain Range with a snowshoe trip Sunday, Feb. 3. Join us and hit the trails that offer something for everybody. Minimum age: 12 ($60)

Rainier’s Glacier Vista with a snowshoe trip to Paradise Sunday, Jan. 27. Difficulty: moderate to difficult; distance: 3 miles; time: 3 hours. Minimum age: 12

24

http://jblmmwr.com/outdoor_rec.html

Winter survival camping trip Join the Outdoor Recreation Program and head up to Reflection Lake in Mount Rainier National Park Feb. 9–10. This the basics of trip preparation, winter travel, shelter construction and winter survival basics, backcountry

cooking and leave-no-trace camping. A mandatory pre-trip class will be held at the Northwest Adventure Center at Lewis North Wednesday, Feb. 6, 5–6 p.m. The trip fee includes winter camping class, group gear (not including sleeping bags), entrance into Mount Rainier National Park and two camp meals. Participants are responsible for lunch on the first day). Minimum age: 18 ($75)

Outdoor adventure trip

Date

Cost

Details

Mount Bachelor ski weekend

Jan. 18–21

$320+

See trip description for occupancy-based pricing

Bavarian Ice Fest

Saturday, Jan. 19

$55

Ages 6–12: $25; 5 & younger: $5

Moonlight snowshoe Gold Creek Pond

Saturday, Jan. 19

$35

Minimum age: 12

Bungee jumping

Sunday, Jan. 20

$135

Minimum weight: 90 lbs.

Cross-country ski Lake Easton

Sunday, Jan. 20

$40

Minimum age: 12

Snowtubing

Saturday, Jan. 26

$35

Ages 6–12: $25; 5 & younger: $5

Ski-n-snowboard White Pass

Saturday, Jan. 26

$50

Lessons package: $100; transportation only: $30

Snowshoe Paradise

Sunday, Jan. 27

$35

Minimum age: 12

Visit Seattle Aquarium/Pike Place Market

Sunday, Jan. 27

$35

Ages 4–12: $25; 3 & younger: $5

Snowtubing

Friday, Feb. 1

$35

Ages 6–12: $25; 5 & younger: $5

Ski-n-snowboard at the Summit

Saturday, Feb. 2

$45

Transportation only: $25

Snowmobile the Cascades

Saturday, Feb. 2

$160

See trip description for passenger pricing

Snowshoe Hurricane Ridge

Sunday, Feb. 3

$60

Minimum age: 12

Cross-country ski Keechelus Lake

Sunday, Feb. 3

$40

Minimum age: 12

Military Appreciation Day at Crystal

Thursday, Feb. 7

$45

Transportation only: $25

Winter survival camping trip

Feb. 9–10

$75

Minimum age: 18

Horseback riding

Saturday, Feb. 9

$80

Minimum age: 7

Ski-n-snowboard Mission Ridge

Sunday, Feb. 10

$50

Transportation only: $30

Snowtubing

Sunday, Feb. 10

$35

Ages 6–12: $25; 5 & younger: $5

After-work kayak skills class

Wednesday, Feb. 13

$20

Minimum age: 12

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

Especially accommodates people with exceptional needs

Popular with Families


JBLM 100 TARGET SPORTING CLAYS

Ursula Buford

The first sporting clays shoot of the year is Saturday, Jan. 5 at the JBLM Skeet & Trap Range. Register on site from 10 a.m.–12:15 p.m. for $35; shooting starts at 10:30 a.m. Call 253-967-7056 for driving directions. For installation regulations regarding firearms and registration, visit JBLMmwr.com and navigate to the Ranges (under Outdoor Recreation). Winter hours are: Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Call for more information.

Wanna get away? Plan a trip at Passport to Travel! Leisure Travel Services presents the 5th Annual Passport to Travel Show March 6 at the AFC Arena at Lewis Main. You’re invited to plan your dream vacation from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Meet with industry vendors to find out about the best deals, discounts and

destinations. Vendors include cruise lines, local attractions, sports teams, theme parks and more. Admission is free, and everyone in the JBLM community is invited. Stay tuned to the FOCUS for details, or check JBLMmwr.com. JBLMmwr.com

25


Feelin’ good

Workin’ out in

Ursula Buford

F

or a great workout, head to the JBLM sports and fitness center nearest you. Boasting the best quality cardio and weight equipment, the gyms are located across JBLM for your fitness convenience. Many locations offer CardioVision — listen to the TV while putting in the miles on the treadmill — saunas, fitness trainers and pools. Plus, several locations hold fitness classes, and Jensen Family Health and Fitness Center offers wellness services such as MicroFit and other health screenings. Want more? It’s all free!

26

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • January 2013

Due to a Welcome Home Ceremony, the aerobathon will now be held at Soldiers Field House at Lewis Main.

Get in a great workout at the 7th Annual Aerobathon It’s the perfect way to start the New Year and kick off your resolution to get into shape — the 7th Annual Aerobathon is Saturday, Jan. 5, 9 a.m.–noon at Wilson Sports and Fitness Center. Enter to win a spa gift certificate, and take home an event T-shirt (limited to the first 300). Grab a friend, neighbor or your spouse and dance, kick and stretch your way through a great workout!

9 a.m. Zumba/warm up 9:30 a.m. Cardio kickboxing


the New Year at JBLM If you want to get in shape this year, turn to JBLM sports and fitness centers. 10 a.m. Zumba 10:30 a.m. Lower body 11 a.m. Zumba 11:30 a.m. Yoga Indoor cycling is 9 a.m.–noon. Wilson is located at 11596 D St. (at 41st Division) at Lewis North. For details, call 253-967-7471.

Challenge your entire body with TRX Suspension Training Starting this month, you have a wider variety of TRX Suspension Training classes from which to choose. TRX uses gravity and your body weight to perform hundreds of different exercises with you in control of the difficulty level — a simple adjustment in position can challenge you more or decrease the resistance. TRX training is provided by master fitness trainer/certified TRX Force Suspension Training Instructor Sabine Pullins. Pullins is the 40th Amica Seattle Marathon female champion and holds classes at Jensen Family Health and Fitness Center. TRX Suspension Training — a workout that welcomes all; a workout that challenges your entire body. TRX Fit Seniors is a group fitness class that focuses on balance and flexibility, while improving quality of life. It’s perfect for those who are seeking a workout that’s fun and rewarding. TRX Fit Seniors is Mondays, 11 a.m.–noon. TRX Fit Runners focuses on improving core and muscular endurance. This is a group workout that will com-

pliment your current running training. Stop by for this free class Tuesdays, 5:30–6:30 p.m. TRX Suspension Classes are also offered Fridays, 6:45–7:45 a.m. and 11 a.m.–noon. Military personnel have priority during Friday Physical Training hours. Jensen is located at 2022 Liggett Ave. at Lewis Main. Details: 253-967-5975.

Field House Pool to discuss rules and answer questions. Start getting a bowling team together because the season begins Feb. 11. There will be a meeting at AFC Arena Tuesday, Jan. 29, 2 p.m. Soccer season begins Feb. 25. For registration forms and details, go to JBLMmwr.com or call 253-967-4768.

Get active with intramural sports

The Civilian Fitness Program offers you paid administrative leave while you work out at a JBLM gym. Find the link for the application on the Sports and Fitness pages at JBLMmwr.com. To complete the program packet, Madigan employees should go to the Share Point Site under Dept. of Preventive Medicine — Public Site, under programs; then call 253-966-3757. Supervisor approval and a completed Medical Release Form are required. Call 253-966-3757 to sign up for the Wednesday, Jan. 9 assessment at Jensen Family Health and Fitness Center.

Intramural and company-level sports provide a fun way to get involved and active. Intramurals are open to DoD ID cardholders not eligible for youth sports. See what’s coming up next and find more information at JBLMmwr.com. JBLM Swim Meet This 14-event swim meet is at Lewis Main’s Soldiers Field House Pool Tuesday, Jan. 22 at 5:30 p.m. Medals will be awarded to the first- through third-place finishers in each event. There will be a meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 8, 2 p.m. at Soldier’s

Emiliano Hernandez

Civilian Fitness Program sign-up

Toby Bartley

Last month’s ribbon cutting ceremony at Kimbro Pool signaled completion of the multi-million dollar renovation. Most youth swimming programs and activities will be at Kimbro Pool, according to Jessica Rockhill, Aquatics Director. Check out the indoor splash park and pool for recreational swimming. For details about aquatics programming and pool locations, visit JBLMmwr.com/fitness.

JBLMmwr.com

27


Learning & earning

What’s your New By Mary Cron, JBLM Financial Readiness Program

A

save money & erase credit card debt

28

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • January 2013

midst the holiday festivities, a simple question begins to gain momentum and becomes the center of conversation as the New Year draws closer. It’s a question that when well thought out and action taken, lives have been changed; it’s a question that sparks lively discussions and competitions; and it’s a question that can help develop empowerment if followed through. This question seems to be ageless, getting passed down from generation to generation. Talk about it generally subsides between May and November, and then becomes active again without fail as the holiday season progresses through November and December. According to USA.gov, the most popular answers to “The Question,” in no particular order, are:

• Manage debt • Manage stress • Quit smoking • Save money • Drink less alcohol • Eat healthy food • Get a better education • Get a better job • Get fit • Lose weight • Reduce, reuse and recycle


Year’s resolution? • Volunteer to help others • Take a trip

ASK THE MONEY EXPERTS

While managing debt and saving money are easily identifiable as money-related, several of the other popular answers listed can help contribute to achieving financial stability while at the same time becoming healthier. Want to quit smoking? A pack-aday smoker spends $150–$210 in one month. Quitting smoking equates to saving money and becoming healthier. Getting a better education or a better job assists with the opportunity to earn more money. Drinking less alcohol is like quitting smoking; it helps free up additional funds to increase your savings account or reduce debt. Getting fit, losing weight and learning how to manage stress can also be moneysavers if planned correctly and followed through. What is amazing is the wealth of support programs for the majority of these answers that can be found within the JBLM Community. Programs

are offered through Family & MWR — specifically Army Community Service and sports and fitness centers, Madigan Army Medical Center and Stone Education Center. These include getting help in preparing for and finding a job through the ACS Employment Readiness Program or registering as a JBLM volunteer with the Installation Volunteer Corps Office. Whether it’s learning debt reduction techniques, building better money management skills, developing budgets, preparing spending plans, reviewing credit reports or deciding on retirement fund options, a personal financial counselor through the Financial Readiness Program will assist you in reaching your desired goals. And now for “The Question.” What will your New Year’s Resolution be? For assistance in achieving your New Year’s resolution of financial independence, call Army Community Service at 253-967-1453 or the Airman & Family Readiness Center at 253-982-2695 to schedule an appointment with a financial counselor or to register for an upcoming class.

Q: What is the purpose of financial goal setting?

A:

The purpose of financial goal planning is to help define where you want to be in a specific number of years in order to achieve success and to help monitor your progress along the way. People who save money just for the sake of saving without a goal attached to it usually end up spending the money almost as fast as they save it. Developing SMART goals achieves a greater rate of success. Specific details have been applied to the goal so a clear picture is in mind of what is needed, what is wanted and what can be optional. The goal is measurable: X number of dollars per month will achieve the goal. It’s attainable: Saving $50 a month can be done but $250 would be a hardship. It’s relevant: Is the goal something that has meaning to me or is it something someone else thinks I should want? Time-bound: My begin date is this and I will achieve my goal on this date.

Declare 2013 the year of books (and e-books)! Free ‘e-book Basics’ class If you received an e-reader this holiday season, this class is for you. Your brand-new device may do more than you think! At “e-book Basics,” you’ll learn to get the most out of your device and the JBLM libraries. You’ll learn to search the library catalog for e-books and check them out, download and transfer titles and troubleshoot. Bring your device to the McChord Library, Saturday, Jan. 19 at 1 p.m. Army personnel must bring their AKO login and password in order to access e-books. For more information, call 253-982-3454.

Library visit for homeschoolers Homeschooled students are invited to visit the McChord Library’s Homeschooler’s Library Class. This multi-part class will introduce homeschooled students to the wonders of the library Whether you want to know how to research a project using library databases or are interested in learning how to use the online catalog, you’ll get familiar with the library and what it has to offer you. Classes are held Tuesdays at 2 p.m. beginning Jan. 15. This class is most suitable for students in grades 3 and up. Registration is required and begins Wednesday, Jan. 2 at JBLMmwr.com/ libraries —just look for the “Calendar of Events” button.

What the libraries can do for you Stop by a JBLM library for books, music, games, research, special events and more. Grandstaff and McChord libraries host quarterly International Relations Forums, and storytime is held at both Book Patch Library and McChord Library. See page 11 for storytime details.

JBLMmwr.com

29


Learning & earning

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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • January 2013


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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • January 2013

253.964.3113

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