FOCUS Fort Lewis
MWR fun, food, travel and well-being guide.
Deployment support Empowerment Expo ACS workshops Walk to Iraq & Back
Freedom Fest celebration Classy Chassis car show Entertainment for all ages
Plus: Funtastics Summer Blast Carnival Summer sports, trips and more
FortLewisMWR.comJune 2009
Fort Lewis Focus
June 2009
A word from the director
Sincerely, William E. Harvey
FOCUS
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Photo: Song Jordan
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FEATURE Empowerment Expo Feel prepared for deployments with sessions that promise to answer all of your questions . . . . . . . . . . 4 FOOD AND FUN Freedom Fest Celebration Food, fun, fireworks and more. . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Funtastics Summer Blast Carnival Fun for all ages in the PX parking lot . . . . . 6
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FREE Diamond Rio concert brought to you by the Spirit of America Tour . . . 6 Taste of Korea First in a series of international tasting events . . . . . . . . . . .7 FABULOUS TRAVEL Cruise to Alaska ITT will help plan your next vacation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 FITNESS AND WELL-BEING Army Strong 5K Challenge Sign up to prove that you’re Army Strong . . . . . 10 FAMILY Quality family time How to find lowcost (and free!) ways to make the most of your time together . . . . . . . . . . 12 Walk to Iraq and Back & summer sports with CYSS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
12 FINANCE AND EDUCATION Celebrate the Army’s birthday Check out a book from the libraries’ military collection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 FEEDBACK Your voice is heard with ICE . . . . . . . 15
Fort Lewis
Director, DFMWR William E. Harvey
Marketing director Katrina McConnell
Editor
Kimberly Rowe
Senior writer/copy editor Kate Mullinax
Contributing photographers Song Jordan
Fort Lewis Directorate of Family & Morale, Welfare and Recreation For commercial sponsorship or advertising inquiries, please contact: Carly Jackson at 253.966.2256 or 253.203.8088; carly.jackson@us.army.mil The Fort Lewis “FOCUS” is an unofficial information source published monthly by FMWR. All activities described herein are subject to change. Contact the activity for confirmation. Activities described herein are open to authorized patrons and, where applicable, guests. Opinions are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent FMWR, Fort Lewis 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. FMWR Marketing is located at Building 2013B, N. 3rd St., Fort Lewis, Wash. Mailing address: Box 339500 MS 20, Fort Lewis, WA 98433-9500 Phone: 253-967-5200/DSN 357-5200. Visit Fort Lewis MWR online at FortLewisMWR.com or search for Fort Lewis MWR on Facebook,Twitter and MySpace.
FortLewisMWR.com
Table of contents
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This Fourth of July, Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation invites you to Freedom Fest at Memorial Stadium (page 6). People of all ages will enjoy the Classy Chassis Car Show, food, entertainment and fireworks at dark. Deploying soon? Empowerment Expos were created to help you and yours to feel prepared for a deployment. For additional information, see page 4. Army Community Service holds a number of classes each month to help prepare for deployments, reunions and to familiarize you with the Army. For a class schedule, see page 11. Summer is upon us, and a number of MWR programs are ready for families – the libraries are hosting a Summer Reading Program and Child, Youth and School Services has a variety of sports opportunities as well as trips. We also want you to be mindful of summer safety, both in the water and on land. Please only swim in areas monitored by lifeguards, and visit the Installation Safety Office online at www.lewis.army.mil/safety for motorcycle safety tips and more.
Empowerment Expo: Feature
A one-stop shop for what you need to know to make it through a deployment By Kate Mullinax
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If your loved one is getting ready to deploy, now is the time to learn everything you need to know to make it a successful deployment experience. Army Family Covenant Making families Army strong We’ve all heard the old saying, “If the Army wanted you to have a family, they would have issued you one.” That was then, this is now. Look no further than the Army Family Covenant for proof that the Army is putting their money where their mouth is when it comes to supporting Army families. The covenant represented a $1.4 billion commitment in 2008 to improve quality of life for Army families through a variety of ways: • Standardizing and funding existing family programs and services • Increasing accessibility and quality of healthcare • Improving Soldier and family housing • Ensuring excellence in schools, youth services and child care • Expanding education and employment opportunities for family members
“We recognize the commitment and increasing sacrifices that our families are making every day. We recognize the strength of our Soldiers comes from the strength of their families. We are committed to providing our families a strong, supporting environment where they can thrive,”
It’s an excellent opportunity for Soldiers and spouses to get all their last-minute questions answered.
says Secretary of the Army Pete Geren about the covenant. Empowerment Expo A one-stop shop from A-Z In an effort to inform families on a wide range of deployment-related services, MWR and a number of other Fort Lewis organizations have come together to host the first-ever series of Empowerment Expos/deployment fairs. These events, which are held at the American Lake Community Center, are a one-stop shop for Soldiers and families.
FMWR Focal Point
Q:
What did you think of the Empowerment Expo?
“I haven’t been to any briefings before, so these are all new.” – Amanda Hermann, spouse
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Fort Lewis Focus
Photos: Song Jordan
“The main purpose of this is for spouses and ... it lets spouses have more information about deployments.” – Corp. Jared Hermann, second deployment
At the expo, which offers free childcare, you’ll find more than 40 informational tables broken down into four categories: Child, Youth and School Services, support agencies like TriCare and Equity (housing), community recreation and other helpful services such as Military
“I had a lot of handouts before the event, but it was helpful to come here and talk to people in person and ask questions.” – Tiffany Miller, spouse
“I feel like she’s better prepared for my deployment now.” – Spec. Daymon Miller, first deployment
OneSource and information on educational opportunities. “All Fort Lewis organizations are working together to maximize your exposure to the resources available during deployment,” says Tracey Wilkinson from the Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation. First Lt. Ryan Mabry of 8-1 Cavalry and his wife Gloria attended the expo to find out everything they could. “It’s an excellent opportunity for Soldiers and spouses to get all of their last-minute questions answered,” said Gloria Mabry. When asked if she found out anything surprising, she exclaimed, “You need a power of attorney for everything!” That’s why Staff Judge Advocates are on hand to provide on-the-spot powers of attorney for your convenience. Weighing your options Benefits of staying put There are a lot of benefits that come along with staying close to post during a deployment. Only you can decide if relocating is the right choice for you, but before coming to that conclusion, make sure you have all the facts. There are a host of programs and services available to support you and your family here at Fort Lewis that may not be available to you if you leave.
June 2009
knowledge is power New child care benefits with CYSS The Army Family Covenant makes free childcare during deployment and FRG meetings available to families. You are also entitled to 16 hours of free child care each month beginning 30 days before a deployment and extending to 60 days after return. If you go beyond the 16 hours of free child care, child care is available to you at $2 per child per hour. If you have a child in regularly scheduled full-time or part-time childcare, you receive a 20 percent reduction in cost. Your child(ren) may receive up to four free SKIES Unlimited classes and may play up to two free CYSS sports. The week of Aug. 17, CYSS is offering a Craig Hodges basketball camp for children of deployed Soldiers. Register Monday, June 8 to Monday, Aug. 17. Hodges, the assistant coach for the L.A. Lakers, is a two-time NBA Champion.
These services and programs include: • Army Community Service • Personal financial counseling • Deployment Workshop for Parents • Stress management • Deployment workshops • New Parent Support Program • Marriage and Relationship Assistance • Military Family Life Consultants • Military OneSource • Unit chaplains These are just a portion of the resources available to help lighten the load for your family during deployment. Know what services are available to you! Remember, knowledge is power,
so use the expo to empower yourself and learn all you can to make the deployment a positive learning experience. If your family is nearing a deployment, inquire about your unit attending the Empowerment Expo. Make it a family affair. You’ll be glad you did.
Feature
Deployment support specials: fun for the entire family
If your unit wants to host an Empowerment Expo, call Tracey Wilkinson at 253-324-0563.
Outdoor Recreation Are you a wife looking to meet other women and take on the great outdoors? Bella Donna Adventures are designed to empower women with the skills to be self-sufficient in the wilderness. Try outdoor activities in a safe environment where you will feel comfortable learning a new skill. Jensen Family Health and Fitness Center is operating with extended hours: Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Child care is available. Kimbro Pool holds youth/family swimming on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to noon. The Arts & Crafts Center will transfer a picture of your deployed mom or dad onto a pillow case for free. Bowl Arena offers three free games including shoes to families of deployed Soldiers on Sundays from noon to 4 p.m. Auto Skills Center offers free oil changes for spouses of deployed Soldiers (provide oil and filter.) For more information, call 253-967-3728. Family Night is the first Monday of each month at the Cascade Community Center. Families of deployed Soldiers are invited for dinner, free games and fun activities. For contact details and map, visit FortLewisMWR.com.
FortLewisMWR.com
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Food and fun
Freedom Fest celebration Celebrate with Fort Lewis Saturday, July 4 at Memorial Stadium from 10 a.m. through the fireworks show at dark. People of all ages will enjoy live entertainment, exhibits, food and fun. The event also includes the Classic Chassis car show, a rugby tournament, 7K Mud Run and a parachute jump at 8:30 p.m., followed by a Salute to the Union Ceremony and 56th Army Band concert. For more information, call the MWR Information Line at 253-967-4294.
Free concert Join MWR for a free concert Tuesday, July 28 with Diamond Rio at Memorial Stadium. The music begins at 7 p.m., and this event is brought to
you by the Spirit of America Foundation. For more information, call the Special Events Office.
The Arts & Crafts Center
Dining options: Ice Cream Day, German Buffet Ice Cream Day is Friday, June 5 at the Cascade Community Center. Enjoy a tasty lunch, followed by a complimentary build-your-own ice cream sundae. Make reservations now for the all-you-can-eat German Buffet Thursday, June 18 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the American Lake Community Center.
Nightlife & entertainment Celebrating a birthday in June? Enjoy no cover, a free 16-inch pizza and be entered into a birthday surprise drawing. And as always, Club North is the place for an early morning breakfast served on weekends from 2 to 3 a.m. Carry-out available.
The Arts & Crafts Center is open during construction so stop by to pick up a gift or have your favorite photo or print matted and framed or put on a coffee mug, plate, bag and much more. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Fort Lewis PX: Celebrity sightings
Take a free photo with NASCAR driver Kasey Kahne Wednesday, June 17! Time to be determined. Other two-hour PX signing events include: Tuesday, June 2, 4 p.m. magazine signing with model Ida Ljungqvist; Saturday, Funtastics Summer June 6, noon cookbook signing with Blast Carnival Oscar-nominated actress Mariel The Funtastics Summer Hemingway; Sunday, June 7, 12:30 p.m. Blast Carnival is in the PX Book signing (Boyology: A Crash Course parking lot weekends June in All Things Boys) with Sarah O’Leary 12-14 and 19-21. Armband Burningham; Monday, June 8, 4 p.m. Night is Saturday, June 19 Book signing with New York Times – ride as many rides as you best-selling author Lee Child; Also in can stomach from 3 to 9 June: Book signings (The Great Book of p.m. for just $20. BOSS Seattle Sports Lists) with Art Thiel, Mike night is Saturday, June 20. Gastineau and Steve Rudman and New York Times best-selling author If you celebrate your birthday in June, come to Club Robert Dugoni. Coming in July: North for a free 16-inch pizza! You will also be entered NFL Hall of Famer Warren Moon. into a drawing for a special birthday surprise.
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Fort Lewis Focus
June 2009
Times
Location
11 a.m. 12:30 p.m. 2:30 p.m. 4 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 11 a.m., 2 & 5 p.m. noon, 3 and 6 p.m. 1, 4 and 7 p.m.
Main Stage Main Stage Main Stage Main Stage Main Stage Main Stage Kids’ World Stage Kids’ World Stage Kids’ World Stage
Also roaming the festival grounds will be stilt dancer Janet Rayor, Professor Bamboozle, Zig Zag, George A. Magician,Tall Characters,Tall Flower, Charlie the Juggling Clown,Two to Tango,Two of Clubs and Midnight Musica.The Freedom Fest celebration ends after the fireworks show at dark. For information about the event and gate access, call the Event Information Line.
Food and fun
Freedom Fest entertainment The Islanders . . . . . . . . . . . . steel drums band Dead Edsels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ’50s & ’60s hits Broken Trail . . . . . . . . . . . . country & western Gruvbox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . R&B Magic Bus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . classic rock The Platters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .national artist Rowdy Refs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . crazy game show Reptile Isle . . . . . . . . . snakes, lizards & gators Kevin Wolfe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . big magic show
Attend the Taste of Korea event, earn the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal Volunteer with BOSS Volunteer with the Fort Lewis BOSS Team to earn the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal. The BOSS program provides many opportunities for you to volunteer – at special events and local community functions or as a driver for the Designated Driver Program (runs on post Friday and Saturday nights to offer safe, no-questions-asked rides home). Anyone can be a BOSS volunteer – you don’t have to be a unit representative. Call today.
Texas Hold ‘em Come to Club North Thursdays at 6 p.m. and play for just $6 in the home stretch of the Texas Hold ‘em tourney. The weekly winner takes home a $50 gift card and is guaranteed a seat at the table on final night, Thursday, June 25.
Visit Great Wolf Lodge & Mount St. Helens with the BOSS Team Are you deploying soon? BOSS is taking a trip to Mount St. Helens for the weekend! Accommodations have been made at the Great Wolf Lodge with up to four to a room! The bus leaves Thursday, June 11 at 6 p.m. and returns Sunday, June 14 at noon. For additional information, contact your unit BOSS representative or call your Installation BOSS Team.
chance to win great door prizes and enjoy Korean dance and tae kwon do demonstrations. Must be 18 to attend and at least 21 to purchase/ consume alcohol.
Installation BOSS meetings
Taste of Korea: Team Lewis Night As the first in a series of international tasting events, “taste the community” is being held in conjuction with Team Lewis Night Friday, June 19 at the Cascade Community Center. Sample Korean food, have the
Installation BOSS meetings are held on the first and third Tuesdays of each month. If you are interested in being a representative for your unit (at the company, battalion or brigade level), call the BOSS Team for additional information on how you can represent your single, unaccompanied and single-parents Soldiers. The Fort Lewis Installation BOSS reps are Sgt. Stephanie Banuelos and PFC Jennifer Szephegyi.
Food, fun & entertainment
Location
Phone number
American Lake Community Center Arts & Crafts Center Battle Bean coffee shops
Building 8085, North Fort Building 5038, Pendleton Ave. Building 2166, Liggett Ave. Stone Education Center Building 11589, North Fort Lewis Arts & Crafts Center, Pendleton Ave. Building 2272, Liggett Ave. Building 2400, Bitar Ave. Building 3-A-3, North Fort Off I-5, Exit 116
253-964-1209/2769 253-967-5001 253-964-8838 253-964-8837 253-964-8152 253-967-5636 253-967-4661 253-964-0331 253-964-0144 253-967-6522 253-967-4294 253-964-4054 253-964-3161 253-966-0400 253-967-5776
BOSS Program Bowl Arena Cascade Community Center Club North Eagles Pride Golf Course Event information line Madigan Café Post Exchange (AAFES) Russell Landing Café Special Events Office
Building 9903, Old Madigan Building 5280, Main Post Building 8981, North Fort Building 2013, N. 3rd St.
FortLewisMWR.com
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Fabulous travel
Summer adventures near & far
Ladies only sea kayaking
Whitewater rafting
Mountain bike Capitol Forest
Paddlers of all levels will love this June 6 Bella Donna trip around Ketron Island. Experience the beauty and tranquility of this local treasure while learning or perfecting paddling techniques. Gear, guide, transportation and instruction are provided for $40. Minimum age: 12. Meet at the NAC at 9 a.m.
Take a trip down the beautiful Wenatchee River June 20 and paddle through exciting class III rapids. Gear, instruction and transportation are included for $60 (groups of 12 or more are $55/person). No rafting experience is necessary for this trip. Minimum age: 14. Meet at the NAC 7 a.m.
Go for a muddy mountain bike adventure in the nearby trails of Capitol Forest June 27. With more than 166 miles of single-track trails, it has something for everyone. Bike, helmet and gloves ($30) provided, and you provide the skills. Pack a lunch, and bring plenty of water for the trail. Meet at the NAC at 9 a.m.
www.NWMSRocks.com 1.888.286.8034 8
Fort Lewis Focus
June 2009
Fabulous travel
Norwegian cruise to Alaska With Norwegian Cruise Lines, you’ll see more of Alaska than you ever imagined. Beautiful coastlines, glaciers and wildlife – like bears, bald eagles and whales – and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Your cruise departs Saturday, Aug. 29 with round-trip travel from
Seattle on Norwegian Star Cruise to Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway and Prince Rupert. Inside staterooms starting from $893, oceanview rooms from $1,157 and balcony staterooms from $1,486. For more information, call ITT Great Escapes at 253-967-3085. Book today to take advantage of this offer!
Next time you’re at the PX, put a trip on your list Now located at the customer service counter at the PX, ITT is ready to help you plan your next vacation, whether it’s here in the Pacific Northwest or around the world. Call 253-967-3085 for hours.
Outdoor adventure trip
Date
Price
Description
Time
Details
Bella Donna sea kayak Parasail Commencement Bay Whitewater rafting Westport bottom fishing Seattle Aquarium/Pike Place Market Mountain bike Capitol Forest Coal Creek Falls hike Sea kayak Ketron Island Keeper sturgeon fishing trip Parasail Commencement Bay Intro to single-track mountain biking Survival class Hunter safety education course Whitewater rafting Keeper sturgeon fishing trip Bungee jumping Ape Caves adventures Skydiving Horseback riding Survival class Mountain bike Capitol Forest Horseback riding Bella Donna whitewater rafting
Saturday, June 6 Saturday, June 6 Saturday, June 6 Sunday, June 7 Sunday, June 7 Sunday, June 7 Saturday, June 13 Saturday, June 13 Saturday, June 13 Sunday, June 14 Sunday, June 14 Sunday, June 14 Please call Saturday, June 20 Saturday, June 20 Saturday, June 20 Sunday, June 21 Sunday, June 21 Sunday, June 21 Saturday, June 27 Saturday, June 27 Sunday, June 28 Sunday, June 28
$40 $55 $60 $96 $35 $30 $30 $40 $180 $55 $30 $25 $10 $60 $180 $125 $30 $200 $70 $25 $30 $70 $60
Ladies only trip around Ketron Island See the Sound from a new view Class III rapids on the Wenatchee Fish rain or shine on the Ranger Day trip to Seattle Learn something new on two wheels Five-mile hike to Cougar Mountain Perfect trip for paddlers of all levels Prepare for a battle with 42-60” fish See the Sound from a new view Learn something new on two wheels Learn skills to survive the outdoors Learn the safe handling of weapons Class III rapids on the Wenatchee Prepare for a battle with 42-60” fish Earn Dangerous Sports Club T-shirt Travel into a 2,000-year-old lava flow Feel the thrill of free-falling Two-hour afternoon guided ride Learn skills to survive the outdoors Learn something new on two wheels Two-hour afternoon guided ride Class III rapids on the Wenatchee
9 a.m. 9 a.m. 7 a.m. 4 a.m. 9 a.m. 9 a.m. 9 a.m. 9 a.m. TBA 9 a.m. 9 a.m. 9 a.m. Please call 7 a.m. TBA 9 a.m. 8 a.m. 10 a.m. 9:30 a.m. 9 a.m. 9 a.m. 9:30 a.m. 7 a.m.
Minimum age: 12
This trip can especially accommodate people with special needs.
6-10: $10 with paying adult
Minimum age: 14 Aquarium admission included
Minimum age: 12 Minimum age: 12 Fish rain or shine
Minimum age: 7 Mandatory in Wash. Minimum age: 14 Fish rain or shine Highest bungee bridge in U.S.
Minimum age: 7 Minimum age: 7
Minimum age: 7
Popular Family trip.
The NAC is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Please call 253-967-6263 for trip details. Pre-registration required.Trips subject to change without notice. Private trips may also be scheduled; group rates may apply.
FortLewisMWR.com
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Fitness & well-being
Are you Army Strong?
Prove it by participating in one of these challenging events Army Strong Fitness Expo The Army Strong 5K Challenge is part of the Army Strong Fitness Expo held in conjuction with Lakewood’s Summer Fest. Take the challenge Sunday, June 21 at 10 a.m. Other expo activities include demonstrations, sports-clinics with local teams, competitions and appearances by mascots and cheerleaders. Free registration for the 5K Challenge is online at FortLewisMWR.com until Wednesday, June 17. For more information about the Army Strong Fitness Expo, call 206-764-3599/6972.
Intramural sports The Intramural Golf League kicks off Monday, June 1 at Eagles Pride Golf Course. Intramural softball begins Tuesday, June 2 at Wilson and Sheridan Sports Complexes. Teams must submit a Letter of Intent to the Sports Administration Office to participate.
Bodybuilding Competition Enjoy free admission to the prejudging of the Fort Lewis Bodybuilding Championship at 9 a.m. Saturday, June 6 at the American Lake Community Center.
The evening show is at 7:30 p.m., and youth 15 years and younger get in free with a paying adult ($5). The event features guest poser Gerri Deach-Davis, national competitor and a guest appearance by Castro Guzman, the 2004 and 2008 Fort Lewis Champion.
June Triathlon The first race of the Triple Threat Triathlon Series is Saturday, June 20. Start
with a half-mile swim on American Lake at 9 a.m. followed by a 15-mile bike ride and a 3-mile run. Additional races are July 18 and Aug. 22; all are open to the public. Pre-register online.
Sound to Narrows The military unit registration form for the Sounds to Narrows Run (Saturday, June 13) may be found online at www. FortLewisMWR.com’s race calendar.
Fitness facility
Location
Phone
Sports Administration Office Cowan and Memorial stadiums Jensen child care Jensen Family Health & Fitness Center Keeler Sports & Fitness Center Keeler Pool McVeigh Sports & Fitness Center Kimbro Pool Sheridan Sports & Fitness Center Soldiers Field House Soldiers Field House Pool Wilson Sports & Fitness Center
Bldg 3236, 2nd Div & Handrich Bldg 2170, Bitar Ave. & 12th St. Bldg 2022, Liggett Ave. & Div. Bldg 2022, Liggett Ave. & Div. Bldg 9993 (Old Madigan) Garfield St. Keeler Sports & Fitness Center Bldg 2160, Liggett Ave. McVeigh Sports & Fitness Center Bldg 3759, Stryker Ave. Bldg 3236, 2nd Div. & Handrich Soldiers Field House Bldg 11596, D St. & 41st Div.
253-967-2604 253-967-2912 253-967--1254 253-967-5975 253-967-6808 253-967-6652 253-967-5869 253-967-5026 253-967-7311 253-967-4771 Closed; renovations
253-967-7471
Event registration forms are available at Fort Lewis fitness facilities and at FortLewisMWR.com.
Sign up for the Army Strong 5K Challenge, and then enter the push-up, sit-up and chin-up competitions at the Army Strong Fitness Expo.
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Fort Lewis Focus
June 2009
Ensuring safe drinking water at Fort Lewis Fort Lewis’ tap water, which met all Environmental Protection Agency and State drinking water health standards for 2008, is safe to for drinking. Fort Lewis vigilantly safeguards its water supplies. Fort Lewis’ water comes from four public water systems, all of which rely entirely on groundwater, an excellent source of drinking water because of the natural filtration process. The drinking water sources are an
artesian spring and eight secondary drinking water source wells at various locations around post. Fort Lewis produced 1.37 billion gallons of clean water last year. Fluoride is added to drinking water to help prevent tooth decay, chlorine is added to help kill bacteria that may be present and polyphosphates are added to help balance the pH of the water and to reduce potential pipe corrosion.
Water conservation is official regulation Residential use and irrigation are the two biggest consumers of potable water on Fort Lewis. To help conserve water, follow the guidelines for each conservation level as outlined in FL Regulation 11-5. Fort Lewis is currently at Level 1. Level 1 is the normal level of water use. Housing residents should water yards according to housing numbers (houses with even numbers water on even days; odd numbers water on odd days). Limit watering to no more
than 30 minutes between 5 and 8 a.m. or 5 and 8 p.m. Non-residential/unit areas limit watering to 30 minutes maximum, five days per week. Use of centralized wash racks is permitted between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. daily. Level 2 is a reduced level of water use, and outside water use is restricted. Houses with even numbers water only on Wednesday and Saturday; odd numbers on Thursday and Sunday. Non-residential/unit areas limit watering to 25 minutes maximum, five days per week. North Fort centralized wash rack is closed.
Level 3 is the most severe restriction of water use. Irrigation is not allowed, and vehicle washing is limited to facilities using recycled water. For more information, call the Water Program Office at 253-967-2837. FL Regulation 11-5 may be viewed at https://ft.lewis.army.mil/publication/Pubs_Frame.htm.
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FortLewisMWR.com
Family
Quality time with the ones you love
R
Remember a time as a child when you had fun with your family? It could have been as simple as sharing a meal or hosting game night. Think back on these events. What made them so special? Often it was
not the event that was so special but the fun and closeness that was felt between family members. In the hectic lifestyles of today, it’s important that children know there is a balance between work and play. These special events should appeal to all members of the family regardless of age and need not be expensive. Let your children take turns choosing the special activities from the suggestions to the right (or have them come up with their own ideas).
Now put the events on your calendar, and keep the appointments! This article was contributed by Chuck Sorbello, I Corps Readiness Outcomes & Wellness Service.
Fun ideas to get started • Visit a park, zoo or local fair • Plan a road trip or go camping • Go to a sporting event, or plan an outdoor recreation trip (see page 8 for family-friendly adventure trips) • Go to a farm and pick strawberries • Movie night • Family report: Allow each family member to share an event from their day (no interrupting) • Have a formal dinner at home and view pictures/videos when children were younger • Plant a garden or build a playhouse
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June 2009
From gymnastics to soccer, CYSS offers a sport that will interest your child Sport/event
Date
Registration
Cost
SKIES Unlimited stands for Schools of Knowledge, Inspiration, Exploration and Skills and offers instructional programming in academics, arts, life-skills and sports for infants through teens. Upcoming classes – from dance and theater to boxing and gymnastics – run from June 22 through August.
Walk to Iraq and Back First Swing golf clinics Special Olympics softball Flag football Field Day Fest First Swing golf camps Start Smart sports camp Youth bowling Sports Fit Friday British Soccer Camp Bump, Set, Spike volleyball camp Craig Hodges basketball camp* Fall soccer Youth Fitness Program
Mon. & Wed. beginning June 1 June 3; June 17 June 15 - Aug. 22 June 15 - July 23 June 20 June 23-25; July 28-30; Aug. 25-27 July 7-9; Aug. 11-13 July 7 - Aug. 27 Fridays July 10; 24; Aug. 7; 21 July 20-24 Aug. 3-5 Aug. 17-21 Aug. 24 - Oct. 17 Ongoing
ongoing through June 16 through June 5 through May 28 No registration through Aug. 24 June 15 - Aug. 7 June 8 - July 2 beginning June 8 challengersports.com July 1 - 30 June 8 - Aug. 17 June 8 - Aug. 14 ongoing
FREE $12 $45 $50 FREE $25 $14 $50 $5 Varies $14 FREE $45 FREE
Free Tacoma Rainiers game Youth ages 12 to 17 are invited to join Child,Youth and School Services at the July 27 Tacoma Rainiers game – for free! The first 45 to sign up with CYSS will receive a free Rainiers hat. Trip includes free hotdog dinner at the ballpark. Transportation is also provided.
Family
SKIES summer quarter
* For children of deployed Soldiers only. CYSS is located in Building 2295 at the corner of 12th St. and Bitar Ave. Use the new FAST lane, or for a full registration, bring current shot record, military, DoD or contract ID card, three local emergency contacts and a sports physical. For more information, call 253-967-2494 or e-mail LewisCYSRegistration@conus.army.mil.
ACS is here to help you and your family
F
From dealing with a deployment, communication issues or stress, and whether you are new to the Army or the parent of a toddler or teen, Army Community Service programs can help. ACS has the tools to help you through a deployment. Sign up for a Pre-Deployment Workshop by calling 253-967-3397. ACS Program
Preparing for a reunion? Register for a Reunion Workshop by calling 253-967-3397 Also, families that did not previously qualify for the DSHS Basic Food Program
How it can help you
Financial & educational assistance program Get acquainted with military life and lingo Make a difference – volunteer Helps Soldiers and Families stay connected Forum for your comments and concerns Enhance career opportunities Support/assistance for those with special needs Education/prevention for domestic violence, child abuse and sexual assault Support services and classes Financial Readiness Program No-cost loan of housewares for PCSers Loan Closet Confidential assistance with deployment/ Military Family Life Consultants reintegration, daily issues and more Mobilization & Deployment Readiness Readiness training/assistance Assistance with PCSing Relocation Readiness Program Army Emergency Relief Army Family Team Building Army Volunteer Corps Coordinator Center of Excellence Customer Service Management System Employment Readiness Program Exceptional Family Member Program Family Advocacy Program
Phone number 253-967-9852 253-967-2382 253-967-2324 253-967-3314 253-967-0052 253-967-3538 253-967-9704/9705 253-967-5940/5901 253-967-3525 253-967-3635 253-495-8425 253-967-9916 253-967-3628
should consider reapplying when their sponsor is deployed. For additional information, call 253-966-9419. The Relocation Office hosts a Newcomers’ Orientation each month for Soldiers and spouses who are new to Fort Lewis. The event, which is Tuesday, June 23 at the American Lake Community Center, includes complimentary lunch, windshield tour, static displays and free on-site child care. Registration required; call 253-967-3633/3550. Learn military terms and acronyms, customs, courtesies and basic protocol with Army Family Team Building’s Alphabet Soup Thursday, June 4 and learn problem-solving skills with Got Lemons? Make Lemonade Monday, June 22. Family Advocacy hosts Common Sense Parenting for Toddlers and Preschoolers, Parenting Skills Class for Parents of Teens, Stress Management and, in conjuction with the Family Life Center, Communication for Families. The I Corps & Fort Lewis ACS is located in Waller Hall, Building 2140 and is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Call 253-9677166 or e-mail lewisacsweb@conus.army.mil for more information.
FortLewisMWR.com
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Finance & education
Summer library events and activities
Stone Army Education Center opportunities Consumer Alert – Test Prep Scams
National testing programs have received complaints regarding questionable products and services. Before investing in these programs, call the Education Service Officer at 253-967-7174.
Free education counseling (GoArmyEd,
MGIB, scholarships, tuition assistance, college information, chapter counseling and more) is available at the Fort Lewis Stone Army Education Center (Building 6242 on Colorado Ave.; 253-967-7174) Monday through Wednesday and Friday From 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and at Madigan (253-9682707), Room # G-94-6 (ground floor/ Reenlistment Office),Tuesday from 8 to 11:30 a.m. and Thursday from 1 to 4:30 p.m. No appointment necessary.
The Technical and Academic Resource Center is a high-tech, multi-
Photo: Song Jordan
Join “Be Creative @ Your Library!” this summer and enjoy reading incentives, activities, crafts, storytimes and more. The free Summer Reading Program is open to young people, preschool through young adult (parents are welcome to read, too). Events include Tuesday Storytime at Book Patch from 10:30 to 11 a.m. and Super Saturday Storytime at Crittenberger from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Registration begins Monday, June 22 with the kick-off event two days later. Children will celebrate their reading success with an ice cream party in August.
Celebrate the Army’s birthday
Teen volunteers needed
Celebrate the Army’s birthday (June 14, 1775) by checking out a book from the Fort Lewis libraries, which boast one of the largest military collections on the West Coast. Military titles include American Military History, Centuries of Service: The U.S. Army 1775 – 2004 and March to Massacre: a history of the first seven years of the U.S.
Have a creative and fun-filled summer working with children at the library. Interested teens should attend a volunteer meeting Tuesday, June 2 at 4 p.m.
Cut costs while getting in shape for summer – Getting in shape doesn’t necessarily mean expensive gym memberships or costly foods.The following steps will help you get in shape for summer: • Create a free workout routine Walk the dog an extra block, use stairs instead of elevators at work and park away from the building when you go shopping. • Keep a food journal 14
Fort Lewis Focus
Information contributed by Georgia Cartner and Jeremy Marshall. Grandstaff: 253-967-5889 and Book Patch: 253-967-5533 (Building 2109, N. 10th & Pendleton); Crittenberger: 253-967-2824 (Building 3271, 2nd Div.)
• Reduce transportation costs Ride your bike or walk to your nearby gym. Fort Lewis has multiple locations where you may work out for free (see page 10). • Borrow workout DVDs from the Fort Lewis library instead of purchasing. • Fitness trainers are available at no-cost at Fort Lewis gyms, or go online to find a virtual fitness trainer. Information contributed by Ryki Carlson. References: webmd.com, aarp.com and living.health.com
media and computer resource facility offering computer access and more. Hours of operation are Monday through Thursday 8:15 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Friday 8:15 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (closed federal holidays). For more information, please call 253-967-2171.
Giant Campus, a nationwide leader
in technology training, offers free onsite and at-home innovative technology courses. For more information please logon to http://fortlewis.giantcampus.com or call 1-800-386-4223.
ROTC Green-to-Gold briefing is Thursday, June 18 at 1:30 p.m. and the Troops to Teachers briefing is Wednesday, June 10 at 1 p.m.; both are at Stone Education Center. For more information, call 253-967-7174. An onsite bookstore operates with extended hours during the first week of each term. As the only MWR bookstore Army-wide, all funds generated are returned to the community. For hours, call 253-964-8185.
The Stone Education Center Battle Bean offers specialty drinks and food items.Try this month’s specialty drink, “Banana Crème Pie Frappuccino.”
June 2009
Garrison Commander hears your voice with ICE By Curtis F. Atkinson
Here’s what you had to say this month:
Feedback
We want to hear from YOU!
I
If you work, live or visit Fort Lewis and use the services here, submit an ICE comment online to have your voice heard by Fort Lewis leaders. The garrison commander reviews ICE comments weekly and is concerned with the issues identified and applauds the employees who have been recognized for their service. Every issue identified is tracked until it is resolved, and when a trend is identified, it is used to develop better business practices for that service. Your input is important to making Fort Lewis an excellent community. With so many service providers in ICE, it is hard to highlight and acknowledge all those who are doing so well. MWR activities that help Fort Lewis Soldiers and families will be highlighted each month. Even when a Soldier deploys or is not physically at Fort Lewis, MWR activities are there to assist the Soldier and make that family separation easier to manage. If you used one of the services at Fort Lewis and were pleased with that service and the way you were treated, submit an ICE comment and let the management know. If you want to recognize an individual, please take the time to get a complete name so that person can be recognized. ICE is accessible through Army OneStop kiosks or online at https://ice. disa. mil. Anyone can click on the ICE logo to be forwarded to the Fort Lewis ICE web site. The ICE system is monitored daily to ensure that customers who request a response are contacted within three working days. Be sure to answer all of the questions. The more feedback you provide, the better. Curtis Atkinson is a Customer Service Officer for the Customer Management System/Interactive Customer Evaluation at Fort Lewis. He may be reached at curtis.f.atkinson@us.army.mil.
Photos: Song Jordan
> Libraries: I wanted to thank reference librarian Jeremy Marshall for assisting me in getting an article through Interlibrary Loan System even though I am not assigned to Fort Lewis. I am in L.A. on an Army Fellowship and requested assistance through the AKO Library support page. Mr. Marshall responded and offered to get me the article.Thanks for meeting the needs of Soldiers everywhere. > ACS Employment Readiness: Mr. Morrison was really helpful and timely when he assisted me with my resumé and job leads. I am very fortunate to have been offered (and accepted) a job with one of the leads that he provided and helped me to apply for. > Arts & Crafts Center: Very good program.Thanks for supporting the families left
behind. My children liked their pillow cases (see page 5 for more information). > Army Emergency Relief and Financial Readiness: Service is fast, and the counselor was very helpful. AER and financial service was a great help and prevented our family from being evicted. Ryki did an outstanding presentation on fixing my credit. I had been completely overwhelmed and avoiding the issues but now I believe the situation can be fixed. > CYSS Sports: I am very satisfied with the service and attitude of the whole CYSS staff. You have continuously been there for me and accommodated all our needs.You continue to make it easy for my family with my husband gone and with four children.
Voice of the Customer What you had to say about last month’s Armed Forces Day celebration. > “I come every year.This was the best one ever!”
Staff Sgt. Michael Verdonk completed a 100-mile run on Armed Forces Day in support of the Wounded Warrior Project.
> “I liked the location better.” Editor’s note:This year’s event was relocated from Cowan Stadium to Watkins Parade Field. > “This was a 10 on a scale of 1 to 5.” FortLewisMWR.com
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253.964.3113 253.964.3113 Two branches on Fort Lewis Two branches to serve you on Fort Lewis to serve you Fort Lewis Focus
We do business in accordance with the Federal Fair Housing Law and the Equal Credit Opportunity Act.
We do business in accordance with the Federal Fair Housing Law and the Equal Credit Opportunity Act.
June 2009