FOCUS June 2016 • JBLMmwr.com
Joint Base Lewis-McChord Family and MWR fun, food, travel & well-being guide
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MARK YOUR CALENDARS!
FREEDOM FEST M O N D AY, J U LY 4
to summer!
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Fun on & in the water! Outdoor adventure trips Summer Reading Program
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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus June 2016
WE’RE HERE FOR
food 6 Dine al fresco
CONTENTS
Try MWR’s tasty specials and fresh foods on the patio; get free fries with WZ order.
fun 8 Celebrate summer!
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Sign up now for the Father-Daughter Dance at the Club at McChord Field; mark your calendar for JBLM’s Freedom Fest.
9 Arts & Crafts for everyone Use the photo kiosk, order personalized gifts and come to Father’s Day Kids’ Kraft.
11 Get in the swing of golf Compete in friendly tourneys and find lots of golf specials at JBLM golf courses.
feature 12 Enjoy summer water fun Maximize your play time at JBLM’s many water-fun locations, both outdoors and in.
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adventures 16 Embark on outdoor trips Check out fun in the sun & on the water by exploring the beautiful Pacific Northwest!
sports, fitness & aquatics
focus
22 Join a sports league Get in on open league volleyball & basketball or Commander’s Cup golf.
23 Get ‘Down & Dirty’ Register now for the 5K Mud Run with allnew obstacles & fun Saturday, June 18.
youth 25 Summer camp’s affordable Choose your own youth camp options!
military & Family readiness
23 Photos: Patti Jeffrey (6 & 12); Scott Hansen/Northwest Guardian (23)
FROM THE COVER Cover photo by Scott Hansen/Northwest Guardian Mark your calendars for Freedom Fest JBLM’s annual Freedom Fest celebration is Monday, July 4. Visit JBLMFreedomFest.com or turn to page 8 for event details. You don’t have to wait until July for summer fun — this issue to full of information on staying cool and having fun now that the sun’s out!
26 Check out special camps Discover fun special-needs Family camps.
29 Retiring from the military New changes are on the horizon for the military retirement system.
libraries 30 ‘Read for the Win’ The Summer Reading Program launches for all ages with prizes and more.
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Welcome the start of summer with outdoor adventure, a round of golf and Freedom Fest The official start of summer is here — Family and MWR is ready! Enjoy a meal outside at one of our eateries (page 6) and mark your calendar for events, such as the one-day Texas Hold ‘Em tourney and the annual Father-Daughter Dance (page 8). Plus, now’s the best time of year to spend some time on JBLM’s golf courses! Turn to page 10 for details on current specials and upcoming tournaments. This month’s feature on page 12 covers all water-centered activities available at JBLM, from splashing on the splash pad at Freedom Park to swimming and boating on American Lake. Did you know jet ski rentals are available at Lewis North? To truly welcome summer, I encourage you to head outside with the experts at the Northwest Adventure Center. The outdoor guides will lead you on trips to climb beautiful Mount Rainier, explore Ape Caves or take a peaceful kayak paddle. There are weekday evening yoga and standup paddleboard options and weekends full of summer favorites on the calendar. Turn to the Adventures section starting on page 16. Save the date for Freedom Fest, JBLM’s annual Independence Day celebration. We’ll see you at Cowan and Memorial stadiums for live entertainment, food, games, fun and fireworks. Details are on page 8 and at JBLMFreedomFest.com. Wishing you and yours a safe and fun summer season! William E. Harvey Director, Family & MWR at JBLM
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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus June 2016
Joint Base Lewis-McChord Family and MWR fun, food, travel & well-being guide
FOCUS JBLM Family & MWR Director, Family & MWR William E. Harvey Creative director Promotions director
Toby Bartley Kelly Wetzel
Editor & graphic designer Writer/graphic designer
Kimberly Rowe Patti Jeffrey
Contributors Cindy Arnold and Jackie Kelly Contributing photographers Ursula Buford, Scott Hansen, Emiliano Hernandez, Patti Jeffrey, AFCS EFMP, Northwest Guardian and MWR Marketing For commercial sponsorship or advertising inquiries, off-base businesses should contact Tiffany Jones at 253-966-2256. The JBLM “FOCUS” is an unofficial information source published monthly. All activities described herein, which are open to authorized patrons and, where applicable, guests, are subject to change; contact the activity for confirmation. Opinions are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent Family & MWR, Joint Base Lewis-McChord or any U.S. government entity. The use of a commercial sponsor logo or mention of a commercial sponsor or other organization does not constitute U.S. government endorsement. Submissions are welcome but may be edited for accuracy, clarity and style. Visit us at JBLMmwr.com or fb.com/JBLMFamilyMWR.
Military life never stops moving. We can help. PCS • Deployment • Separation • Retirement
800-531-8521 No official U.S. Army endorsement is implied. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement by the Department of Defense. USAA means United Services Automobile Association and its affiliates. © 2016 USAA. 230222-0616-A JBLMmwr.com
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focus | food
SUMMERTIME DINING’S SO FINE Fresh summertime foods add to the experience of dining al fresco at the Bistro at Russell Landing, the Warrior Zone, JBLM golf courses and Freedom Park outside Bowl Arena Lanes.
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Try the Bistro’s June specials
The Bistro is located at Lewis North at the
Soak in the sunshine and lakeside view while you savor lunch at the Bistro at Russell Landing on the shore of American Lake. While you’re there, try out June’s weekday lunch specials. From 11 a.m.– 2 p.m., order the: • Chicken salad sandwich and a side for $12.95 Mondays. • Carnitas street tacos with a choice of side for $11.95 Tuesdays. • Chicken-fried steak with mashed potatoes and gravy for $12.95 Wednesdays. • Spring mix strawberry salad with chicken and strawberry vinaigrette for $13.95 Thursdays. • Cod fish and chips for $13.95 Fridays. For more details, call 253-964-2813.
end of American Lake Avenue.
Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus June 2016
WZ Café specials double your fun Try all the specials at the Warrior Zone
• Monday, June 20 is Ice Cream Soda Day! Buy an old-fashioned root beer or soda float — 16 ounces is $2.50 and 24 ounces is $4.50. • At the Texas Hold ‘Em tourney Wednes-
Café while you catch all the fun action
days through June 15 starting at 6 p.m.,
indoors and on the patio — each month
purchase nachos with jalapeños for $3
offers something new: • During the NBA Finals playoff games
and a 12-inch supreme pizza for $6.50. • The first five people to sign up for any
starting Thursday, June 2, pick up the
Warrior Zone tournament receive $2 off
12-inch single-topping pizza and a
a meal in the café.
fountain drink combo for $6.50. • Saturday, June 4 during UFC 199, get your choice of the patio special’s chicken breast or burger meal for $6.50.
• Get discount draft pitchers, cups or bottles during happy hour weekdays from 5–7 p.m. Call 253-477-5833 for additional infor-
Each meal comes with two sides: mac
mation. The WZ is on the corner of
‘n cheese, garlic mashed potatoes,
N. 17th & D streets at Lewis North. Ages
baked beans or potato salad.
18 and older only can enter.
GRAND OPENING! Watch for announcements of the new Samuel Adams Brewhouse’s grand opening this month. The construction is complete, the staff is being trained and the final touches are nearly ready. The brewhouse is located at 2400 Bitar Ave. and Division at Lewis Main. Come out to the Membership Appreciation Lunch Wednesday, June 29 from 11 a.m.–1 p.m. It’s free for Club cardholders and only $5 for Family members and guests. No reservations are needed. The Club is at 700 Barnes Blvd.
Enjoy Strike Zone specials Try the Wednesday specials at Sounders Lanes’ Strike Zone. Buy a whole cheese, pepperoni or sausage pizza for only $10 or a corn dog and fries for only $2.50 from 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Sounders Lanes is at 737 Jackson Blvd. at McChord Field. Call 253-982-5954 for details.
Sample daily flavors, specials at Battle Bean Emiliano Hernandez
Fill up on German Buffet Join us at the Club at McChord Field for the all-you-can-eat German buffet Wednesday, June 22 from 5–7 p.m. Pile on the bratwurst and sauerkraut, schnitzel, beef rouladen, red cabbage, mashed potatoes, German potatoes, salads and German breads. Top it all off with yummy desserts. The cost is $18.95 for ages 11 and older, $8.95 for children ages 4–10 and free for ages 3 and younger. Reservations are required for this popular buffet; call 253-982-5581 for yours. The Club is located at 700 Barnes Blvd.
The Club loves it members Even while sections of the Club at McChord Field are being renovated, Club members are still privy to monthly exclusives!
The Battle Beans at Lewis Main feature tasty June weekday specials: • Mondays start with mocha madness with $1.50 off any size order of dark chocolate mocha. • Tuesdays, receive a free flavor upgrade on your favorite coffee drink. • Wednesdays, rev up your energy with one free espresso shot in your order. • Thursdays are “macchin’ me crazy” — receive $1.50 off any size caramel macchiato. • Fridays, grab a $1 pastry with your purchase of any specialty drink. Also, the Stone Ed Battle Bean offers “double-punch happy hour” 2–4 p.m. for punch-card customers, and they’ve brought back almond milk by popular demand! The Stone Ed Battle Bean is located at 6242 Colorado Ave. and opens at 7:30 a.m. weekdays. The Drive-Thru Battle Bean is at the
corner of 12th Street and Liggett Avenue and is open 7 a.m.–noon weekdays.
Try Habañero’s new menu! Habañero Mexican Grill at Whispering Firs Golf Course has delicious new menu items for breakfast and lunch. You can even pick up breakfast on the way to work by ordering ahead! Mornings offer your choice of bacon, sausage, chorizo or ham breakfast bowls with hash browns, SOS, cheese and an egg for only $4.50. If you prefer a lighter lunch, order lunch wraps, light-size burritos and quesadillas. The wraps feature chicken Caesar, ham or turkey jalapeño club fillings for only $5.75. Try a wrap with the new house-made chips or onion rings. For more new menu items, visit JBLMmwr.com. Habañero is located at 895 Lincoln Blvd. at McChord Field.
Clip & Save!
FREE order of fries with the purchase of a burger or sandwich at
inside the Warrior Zone Limit one coupon per customer. Valid only when presented in person. No photocopies accepted. No cash value. Coupon is good June 1–30, 2016.
Located at the corner of 17th & D streets at Lewis North.
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focus | fun
TEXAS HOLD ‘EM, FATHER-DAUGHTER DANCE, FATHER’S DAY KIDS’ KRAFT, KIDS-BOWL-FREE PROGRAM, GOLF EVENTS,
Play to win at one-day Texas Hold ‘Em Tourney Come on out to the Club at McChord Field for a one-day Texas Hold ‘Em Tournament Saturday, June 25. Your $22 buy-in gets you in the game, covers your chips and includes a light buffet. Club members receive a $2 discount. Prizes include $400, $300 and $200 gift cards. Registration begins at 1 p.m. and play starts at 1:30. The Club is located at 700 Barnes Blvd. at McChord Field. For more details, call 253-967-5581/0718. This event is open to active duty Service members, reservists, Family members, DOD personnel and retirees.
To register, go online to KidsBowlFree. com/JBLM and fill out the registration form. Your coupon notification will be sent directly to your email to print out and redeem. The program is available to all authorized DOD card holders and your sponsored guests.
Celebrate Freedom Fest Celebrate Independence Day Monday, July 4 at JBLM’s Freedom Fest starting at noon at Cowan and Memorial stadiums at Lewis Main! This year, it’s a closed event and is
Enjoy a fun-filled evening at the Club at McChord Field’s popular Father-Daughter Dance Friday, June 10 from 6:30– 9 p.m. DJ Chrissy Williams is hosting with entertainment, door prizes and dancing. Appetizers and punch will also be served. The cost is $20 per couple and $8 per additional daughter. Dress is semiformal. No walk-ins allowed at the door. Reservations are required; call the Club at 253-982-5581/0718.
valid DOD ID cardholders and sponsored
Family pass to bowl with your kids for a Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus June 2016
Rental shoes are not included.
only open to JBLM Service members,
Bowl Arena Lanes and Sounders Lanes are excited to take part in a new program, “Kids Bowl Free.” Register your children ages 17 and younger for a free bowling pass (two free games of bowling a day) at either JBLM bowling center. Adults can purchase a
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Family, good for the entire summer.
Sign up for popular annual FatherDaughter Dance
Kids bowl free this summer!
MWR Marketing staff
one-time fee starting at $29.95 per
your Families, military retirees, other guests. Freedom Fest offers a day of fun, fair food, Classy Chassis car show, carnival rides, games, stage entertainment, sponsor booths’ giveaways, roving entertainers, 56th Army Band concert and fireworks at dark. Find the complete schedule of events at JBLMFreedomFest.com.
Play at the Warrior Zone Come on out to the Warrior Zone at Lewis North for fun, games and events: • Saturday, June 4, watch UFC 199 (Rockhold vs. Weidman 2) and HBO Boxing After Dark (Vargas vs. Salido). • HBO Boxing After Dark Saturday, June 11 (Martinez vs. Lomachenko). • UFC Fight Night (MacDonald vs. Thompson) Saturday, June 18.
FREEDOM FEST & MUCH MORE
• More sports action, including Stanley Cup Finals, NBA Finals, soccer, tennis, NASCAR, baseball and more. • Naruto fighting game prize tournament Sunday, June 26 at 3 p.m. (Open play all other Sundays). • The Texas Hold ‘Em tournament Wednesdays through June 15. The higher you place and the more often you show up each week, the more points you accumulate. The top weekly player wins a $50 gift card; top players advance to the finals week with even bigger prizes. Sign up at 6 p.m., start at 6:30. Tournament entry fee is $7 per person each week. For details on other daily activities and events, visit fb.com/JBLMWarriorZone. The WZ’s located at 17th and D streets and is open to ages 18 and older.
Use Arts & Crafts’ photo kiosk! Did you know the Arts & Crafts Center at McChord Field has a photo kiosk that produces high-quality prints? Bring in your memory cards or smartphones to download and print your favorite people, places and things. Prints start at only 28¢ each. (Be sure to use this month’s coupon!) Photos are a great idea for creating Father’s Day, graduation, wedding, goingaway and birthday cards, designing your own photo calendars, collages and more — especially since you can print up to 8-by-10 inches. You can even download all your photos onto a CD for just $2 or videos for just $3. Choose from a variety of greeting card templates, too! The Arts & Crafts Center is located at 1121 Barnes Blvd. at McChord Field.
Patti Jeffrey
Look no further than your Arts & Crafts Center for picture framing and engraving — they offer a huge selection of designs and materials. The center’s located at 1121 Barnes Blvd. at McChord Field. To collaborate on gift ideas from the experts, call 253-982-6726/6723.
Call 253-982-6726/6723 for more details.
Create unique Father’s Day gift Sign your kiddos up now for the Father’s Day Kids’ Kraft Friday, June 3 at the Arts & Crafts Center at McChord Field. Children can create and decorate a knick-knack tray for Dad using ice pop sticks — each project is only $2! Registered participants can complete the project from 3:30–5 p.m. Call 253-982-6726/6723 to register.
Need to save time and hassle? Order multiple items to have on hand for giftgiving. Leave space to add a small engraved plate to personalize the item. Here’s a great gift idea that’s also a keepsake — order framed prints with space for co-workers to sign or write personal notes to the recipient. Also get your Family portrait photos beautifully custom-framed in time for Father’s Day! For more gift ideas, call the Arts & Crafts Center at 253-982-6723 (for
Order personalized gifts
engraving and embroidery). For the
Looking for unique PCS and retirement gifts? Stop by and order a custom laserengraved plaque. Bring in your design ideas and the experts will help you create a custom thank-you gift.
frame shop, call 253-982-6718. You also can visit JBLMmwr.com under Arts & Crafts to view gift examples. The Arts & Crafts Center is located at 1121 Barnes Blvd. at McChord Field.
Arts & Crafts Center Clip ‘n Save June Coupons Print 9 photos; get 1 free (4"x6" at the photo kiosk)
Limit one coupon per customer per class. Valid only when presented in person. No photocopies accepted. No cash value. Coupon is good June 1–30, 2016.
Free Knitting Class
(discount applies to instruction only) Limit one coupon per customer. Valid only when presented in person. No photocopies accepted. No cash value. Coupon is good June 1–30, 2016.
Arts & Crafts Center at McChord Field • 1121 Barnes Blvd. • 253-982-6726 JBLMmwr.com
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Military families can get the best of both worlds. TRICARE benefits. And civilian doctors.
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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus June 2016
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GOLFING A ROUND AT JBLM G
et in the swing of summer play at JBLM golf courses. Both Eagles Pride and Whispering Firs have tourneys and specials lined up just for you! Compete for fun and to improve your game by entering a friendly tournament: • Beat the Staff Week at Eagles Pride — any morning from June 12–18 (7 a.m. tee), try to beat the staff on a four-person team (one net, one gross). Teams that beat the staff split a prize pot. Entry fee is $40 per team, plus your green fee. • Horse Race Tuesday, June 14 at Eagles Pride. Tee is 5:30 p.m. for this twoperson alternate shot game. Entry is $15 per player, which includes your green fee. • Match Up with the U.S. Open at Whispering Firs Saturday, June 18 at 7 a.m. (your score plus a selected pro Saturday score with side skins and deuce pot). The cost is $10 plus your green fee. Also enter Joint Base Commander Golf Tournaments once a month Fridays all season long. If you’re an ID cardholder, you and your guests can enter these four-person scrambles:
• June 17 with a 1:30 p.m. shotgun start at Whispering Firs. • July 22, 1 p.m. shotgun at Eagles Pride. • Aug. 19 with a 1 p.m. shotgun at Whispering Firs. • Sept. 16, 1 p.m. shotgun at Eagles Pride. The entry cost for each tourney is $35 per player, which includes your green fee and cart.
The Rainier Cup returns for the best competitors It only happens once a year — the annual Rainier Cup Challenge between Air Force, Army and Navy teams. The competition starts at Whidbey Friday, June 24 with a 10 a.m. shotgun start. It continues at Eagles Pride Saturday, June 25 with a 1:30 p.m. shotgun. The competition determines the winners at Whispering Firs Sunday, June 26 with a 9 a.m. shotgun. The $120 per golfer entry includes the competition, team uniform, tee gifts, range balls, daily KPs, Friday and Saturday meal and Sunday awards banquet. The 36-player teams (with six captain
picks) are open to active duty personnel and Family members, National Guard, Coast Guard, Reserves, DOD civilians and retirees. Call Eagles Pride at 253-967-6522 or Whispering Firs at 253-982-2124 for qualifier information and entry details.
Take advantage of golf specials June is packed with golf specials at JBLM golf courses: • All green fees are $20 after 11 a.m. Mondays at Eagles Pride and Wednesdays at Whispering Firs. • Father’s Day special. Dads get a green fee, cart and $7 food voucher package for only $39 for Service members or $43 for all others and guests. Also pick up something for Dad in the pro shop — select items are on sale. • Mizuno and Wilson Demo Day Saturday, June 11 from 11 a.m.–3 p.m. at Eagles Pride. • Also ask about the regular Golf Combo and JBLM Golf Pass. (Specials cannot be combined with other specials or used for outings/tournaments.)
JBLM GOLF COURSES Eagles Pride Golf Course • Located off I-5 Exit 116 • 253-967-6522 • Open to the public Whispering Firs Golf Course • 895 Lincoln Blvd., McChord Field • 253-982-2124 Both pro shops are open daily • Take individual golf lessons with resident pros! JBLMmwr.com
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focus | feature
Photos: MWR Marketing Staff & Northwest Guardian Staff
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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus June 2016
by Patti Jeffrey
M
aximize your addiction to water fun without venturing off-base — play all summer at JBLM’s pools, parks, lakeside playgrounds and splash park!
Indoor pools offer play, lap swims, classes & lessons Lewis Main indoor pools offer swim lessons (Kimbro), plus free lap swimming (Keeler and Soldiers Field House) and water aerobics (Soldiers Field House). Kimbro also features a toddler wading pool with spray features, recreational swimming, plus water slides for those passing the swim test. For complete schedules of activities, visit JBLMmwr.com/aquatics.
Summer Cove’s a treasure Summer Cove at Lewis North is an ideal spot to sun and wade in American Lake. With a scenic view of Mount Rainier, you can bring the kids to play on age-appropriate playgrounds, have a picnic on one of the covered or trailside picnic tables and explore the trails. Summer Cove is a short walk away from Russell Landing at the end of American Lake Avenue.
Splash Park offers hours of fun With a backdrop of Mount Rainier and surrounded by grassy playfields, the Splash Park, part of Freedom Park at Lewis Main, is a popular place to hang out. Pack your sunscreen, picnic lunches, lawn chairs and blankets to spread out on
the grass, or select one of the shaded or sunny picnic tables for a leisurely day. The Splash Park is open daily until dusk through the summer. If your kids want a change of pace, the soft-fall playground and skateboard park are nearby. Also find snacks and cool treats from Bowl Arena Lanes across from the play area.
Wade & swim at Shoreline Park Bring your kids to Shoreline Park’s wading and swimming areas with lifeguards overlooking the activities. Younger children can enjoy the 2-foot wading area, while older children will want to venture out to the 4-foot depth. Swimmers can explore the floating playground for a fun slide back into the lake. If you’re into human-powered paddling, try exploring American Lake with one of the rentals Shoreline Park offers — canoes, one- and two-person kayaks, stand-up paddleboards or pedal boats. Shoreline Park is located at the end of Shoreline Beach Road at Lewis North. For more information, call 253-967-2510.
Get out on American Lake with boat rentals Like to fish, ski or jet ski? Russell Landing Marina at Lewis North is the perfect put-in point for your own watercraft or a rental Wednesday–Sunday during the summer. Russell Landing rents pontoons, motorboats and jet skis by the hour or for the day. Call 253-967-2510 for more information. The marina is located at 8981 American Lake Ave.
Russell Landing boat rentals Equipment Hourly Half-Day Daily 16-ft Motor Boat $15 $35 $50 Pontoon (old) $55 $125 $200 Pontoon (semi-new) $60 $150 $275 Pontoon (new) $75 $180 $350 Jet Ski $50 $100 $200 Bayliner $55 $125 $200
Prices do not include gas. A half-day rental is from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. or 1:15– 5:15 p.m. Daily rental is 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Wednesday–Sunday. Motor boats, pontoons and jet skis may be reserved in advance.
Shoreline Park boat rentals Equipment Canoe Single Kayak Double Kayak Stand-up Paddleboard 2-Seat Pedal Boat 4-Seat Pedal Boat
Hourly Daily $10 $30 $10 $30 $15 $45 $10 $40 $10 $15
Daily rental is from noon–5 p.m. Wednesday–Sunday. All rentals are firstcome, first-served.
Rental safety comes first! You must view a 90-minute boating safety DVD or a 25-minute jet ski instructional DVD to receive a JBLM Recreation Qualification Card that allows you to use one of the rental canoes, kayaks, 16-ft. motor or pontoon boats or jet skis. All rentals come with appropriate safety gear for your trips on the lake. Questions? Call 253-967-2510 or the NAC at 253-967-8282.
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focus |
Healthy dads live happier lives.
The foundation of great health is optimizing sleep, activity and nutrition into life’s daily battle rhythms. During Men’s Health Month & all year long, Team Madigan supports male beneficiaries in their journeys to readiness and health. Happy Father’s Day from Madigan Army Medical Center.
IT H
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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus June 2016
Proudly creating smiles for our military and their families. 253-582-1611 10025 Gravelly Lake Dr. SW in Lakewood
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TURN IT DOWN January: Lower your thermostat by just 1 degree. SAVE $44-$73 a year on your power bill
TURN IT OFF
OPT OUT
February: Turn off your monitor if you aren’t going to use it for 20+ minutes. Turn off the CPU & monitor if you aren’t going to use them for 2+ hours.
March: Opt out of junk mail.
MAKE THE SWITCH April: Switch to non-toxic cleaning products.
PLANT May: Plant a container garden.
SAVE $140-160 a year FRESH AIR October: Change your air filters.
GO LOW-FLOW September: Buy a water-saving showerhead. SAVE about $1.10 per shower with a low-flow showerhead
November: As your incandescent lightbulbs burn out, replace with CFLs or LEDs. SAVE $180-300 a year GO WITH CFL
December: Give eco-friendly holiday gifts. GREEN GIFTS
BE SMART August: Plug small applicances into a smart power strip that can be turned off.
REUSE July: Buy a reusable water bottle and/or insulated mug.
RECHARGE June: The breakeven point for rechargeable batteries compared to alkaline is two years. Then ownership costs just 25 cents a year!
GO GREEN one month at a time
Make a difference together.
/SustainableJBLM JBLMmwr.com
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focus | adventures
SUMMER PARADISE FIND YOURS. 16
Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus June 2016
Give summer the proper welcome! Go for a paddle to Cutts Island, a zipline adventure in the trees or a standup paddleboard trip on the lake — all with the experts at the Northwest Adventure Center. Plus, take a photography workshop and learn to document your outdoor adventures!
T
rips with the Northwest Adventure Center include transportation and guide. Gear is included unless otherwise noted and, in some instances, meals are add-on options. Check out the trip descriptions in this issue and then register at JBLMmwrRegistration.com.
Alpine Club meeting Climbers are invited to the Alpine Club meeting Wednesday, July 6 at 6 p.m. The activity and meeting location differs each month. Members, check out JBLMalpineclub. blogspot.com for more info. Ape Cave adventure Head to Mount St. Helens to explore the largest continuous lava tube in the Western Hemisphere. Saturday, June 25, go deep into the underside of a 2,000-year-old lava flow to scramble over and climb under volcanic formations. Two features that must be traversed include 6-foot and 8-foot vertical walls and numerous rock piles up to 20 feet high. In this subterranean environment, the average year-round temperature remains a constant 45 degrees, so dress warmly. Difficulty: moderate; distance: 3 miles; elevation gain: 250 feet. Minimum age: 12. Depart from the Northwest Adventure Center at Lewis North at 8 a.m. ($55)
ATV RiderCourse™
In this half-day course, ATV Safety Institute instructors will guide you through the fun and excitement of safely riding an ATV. We ride rain or shine, so dress for the
weather Sunday, July 3. ASI ATV RiderCourse™ certification will be awarded upon completion. Minimum age: 16. Meet at the JBLM ORV Park at 9 a.m. ($35)
Bella Donna rock ‘n yoga Yoga and rock climbing complement each other in an extraordinary way, making this July 16 –17 trip the perfect opportunity to take the yogic disciplines of breath, balance, focus and flexibility into the vertical world. Take your rock-climbing skills to the next level with individualized instruction during this two-day workshop. The city of Vantage has some of the best climbing and most incredible landscapes this state has to offer. Wake up each day with an invigorating yoga practice to the sun filling up the canyon. Play all day on the rocks, learning new tricks or refining others, and wind down with a relaxing flow as the sun sets over the gorge. The trip fee includes transportation, camping and rock climbing gear. Food is on your own. Minimum age: 18. Meet at the Northwest Adventure Center at Lewis North at 7 a.m. ($200) Bella Donna whitewater raft the Wenatchee Take a ladies-only trip down the beautiful Wenatchee River Sunday, June 26. Put in near Leavenworth before paddling through many exciting class–III rapids. No experience is required. Minimum age: 12. Depart from the Northwest Adventure Center
at Lewis North at 8 a.m. or McChord Field’s Adventures Unlimited at 8:30. Preregistration required by 5 p.m. Wednesday, June 23. ($65) Ask about our private trips for groups and units. Groups of 24+ are just $60 per person.
Bike the Snoqualmie Tunnel Ride through the Snoqualmie Tunnel — it’s nearly 2 miles long — Saturday, June 25. From there, snake your way around the hills and over old train trestles on the way to Rattlesnake Lake. The best part? It’s all downhill! Difficulty: easy, distance: 22.5 miles; ride time: 3.5 hours. Minimum age: 14. The trip fee includes guide, transportation, bike, helmet, gloves and headlamp. Depart from the Northwest Adventure Center at Lewis North at 8:30 a.m. ($55)
Bungee or zipline adventure If adrenaline is what you crave, you won’t be disappointed! Sunday, July 10, head to the base of Mount St. Helens to bungee jump off one of the highest bungee bridges in the country. If bungee jumping isn’t your thing, you can zipline over the canyon for an adventure in the trees on seven different ziplines. Bungee jumpers get two jumps and a T-shirt. Minimum weight: 90 lbs. Depart from the Northwest Adventure Center at Lewis North at 9 a.m. Preregistration required by 5 p.m. Wednesday, July 6. ($135) Continued on the next page. JBLMmwr.com
17
focus | COLLEGE PIERCE at JOINT BASE LEWIS-McCHORD
Your degree...
NO BOOKS! Destination yoga — Kachess Lake
Face-to-face and online options Save an average of $1K in book costs
#1 MILITARY FREINDLY COMMUNITY COLLEGE in the U.S.! (BestColleges.com)
REGISTER NOW! Lewis-Main Stone Education Center 6242
(253) 964-6567
McChord Field Education Center 851
(253) 964-6606
miladvising@pierce.ctc.edu Serving our military and military families for more than 45 years
18
w w w. p ierce.c tc.e du /mi l i t ar y Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus June 2016
Take your practice out the doors and into nature. Break down the barriers of where your practice should take place and change the expectations of what your practice should look like. Whether you’re a lifelong yogi wanting to switch up your scenery or have never said the word namaste and are inspired to try something new, this day is for you. Destination yoga Saturday, July 2 offers an entirely new way to explore this beautiful state. Pack up paddleboards and head for the serene lakes of the Alpine wilderness. Stand on the secluded beach of Kachess Lake, preparing your board, with only mountains surrounding you. Experience an hour of gentle yoga while floating on the crystal clear waters of this pristine lake. Paddle around through the passage up into Little Lake and hike up to the waterfalls, or try your hand at some cliff jumping. Sounds like a day in paradise! Depart from the Northwest Adventure Center at Lewis North at 7 a.m. ($60)
Mount Rainier climbs
Rising 14,410 feet above sea level, Mount Rainier offers
on these multiday trips. Prerequisite requirements: demonstrated skills or completion of the Alpine Club’s Basic Alpine Climbing Course. A $150 nonrefundable climbing permit fee or full payment is required upon registration for each trip. Full trip details will be provided upon registration. For more information, email JBLMalpineclub@ gmail.com. ($750 each)
Mount St. Helens photography Mount St. Helens is a photography paradise. Saturday, July 9, head to Johnston Ridge Observation Point, Loowit Viewpoint and Coldwater Lake to take in the unique landscape and learn basic landscape photography techniques, depth of field, ISO, metering and photo composition, while seeing the sights. You’ll need to bring your camera, tripod (optional), good, sturdy footwear, food/snacks and water. The trip requires hiking a short distance with an elevation gain of up to 300 feet. Minimum age: 12. Depart from the Northwest Adventure Center at Lewis North at 7:30 a.m. ($75)
nearly unlimited climbing possibilities.
Outdoor photography workshop
Tackle some of the 60 climbing routes on
Outdoor photography is one of the most
this iconic symbol of Washington state
popular forms of photography out there.
with the JBLM Alpine Club. There are
Head to Discovery Park in Seattle Sunday,
two upcoming trips:
July 3 to cover aperture, shutter speed,
• Emmons Glacier June 23–26.
exposure settings and composition. Learn
• Tahoma to DC Carryover July 1–4.
how to eliminate distractions and the “rule
Transportation and gear are provided
of thirds” to create more dynamic images.
Bring your camera and tripod, along with the owner’s manual. Before class, please familiarize yourself with the process of adjusting your shutter speed, aperture, ISO and white balance (the workshop includes discussion on when and why to make these adjustments). It’s strongly suggested that you have a back-up fully charged battery. Minimum age: 12. Depart from the Northwest Adventure Center at Lewis North at 8:30 a.m. or McChord Field’s Adventures Unlimited at 8:45. ($60)
Pedals & pints
exposure settings, auto-focus and stabilization, capturing time-lapse frames, reviewing and processing the images and assembling a final timeOutdoor adventure
lapse. This workshop is held at the Northwest Adventure Center at Lewis North at 6 p.m. ($10) Continued on the next page.
Date
Cost
Details Minimum age: 12
Sea kayak skills class
Tuesday, June 21
$25
Rainier climb — Emmons Glacier
June 23–26
$750
Sunset SUP & steak
Thursday, June 23
$30–50
Ape Cave adventure
Saturday, June 25
$55
Minimum age: 12
Bike the Snoqualmie Tunnel
Saturday, June 25
$55
Minimum age: 14 Minimum age: 12
Bella Donna whitewater raft Wenatchee
Sunday, June 26
$65
Bella Donna SUP yoga
Thursday, June 30
$35
Rainier climb — Tahoma to DC Carryover
July 1–4
$750
Head to Woodinville Sunday, July 17 and bike along the Sammamish River Trail to Marymoor Park and back. Finish the excursion with a tour of the famous Redhook Brewery
ATV RiderCourse™
Sunday, July 3
$35
Minimum age: 16
and dinner at the Forecasters Pub (not
Outdoor photography workshop
Sunday, July 3
$60
Minimum age: 12
included in the trip fee). Difficulty:
Alpine Club meeting
Wednesday, July 6
FREE
beginner–intermediate; distance: 12.5 miles. Minimum age: 21. Depart from the Northwest Adventure Center at Lewis North at 10 a.m. ($55)
Photography workshop (time-lapse) A time-lapse video essentially compresses time into a smaller space, creating some entertaining and evocative results. Learn how to choose the right equipment, get the right settings for your camera and compose shots in a way that will be easy to work with later. Topics for this Monday, July 18, workshop include equipment for time-lapse photography, finding a time-lapse subject, setting up the tripod,
Sea kayak Cutts Island
Saturday, July 2
$60
Destination yoga — Kachess Lake
Saturday, July 2
$60
Minimum age: 12
Sunset SUP & steak
Thursday, July 7
$20–50
Mount St. Helens photography
Saturday, July 9
$75
Raft & ribeye Skykomish
Sunday, July 10
$120
Minimum age: 16
Bungee or zipline adventure
Sunday, July 10
$135
Minimum weight: 90 lbs.
SUP yoga
Thursday, July 14
$35
San Juan Island day trip
Saturday, July 16
$150
Minimum age: 12 (<18 with w/ parent/guardian)
Bella Donna rock ‘n yoga
July 16–17
$200
Minimum age: 18
Wilderness First Aid
July 16–17
$225
Minimum age: 18
Pedals & pints
Sunday, July 17
$55
Minimum age: 21
Photography workshop (time-lapse)
Monday, July 18
$10
Preregistration is required for all trips; prices and schedule are subject to change without notice. Anyone younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Gear and transportation are included unless otherwise stated. Register via WebTrac (visit JBLMmwrRegistration.com) or at the Northwest Adventure Center at Lewis North. Confirm pick-up locations and times upon registration. Group rates and private trips are available; call for details. We’ll visit FRG meetings or unit functions to tell you about the great recreation and adventure options in the area. For more information, call 253-967-6263 or visit JBLMmwr.com. Especially accommodates exceptional needs
Popular with Families
Led by NAC expert guides
$20 meal option
Volunteer option
JBLMmwr.com
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focus |
20
Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus June 2016
Raft & ribeye Skykomish Your expertly guided rafting adventure is Sunday, July 10 and includes 9 miles of class III–V whitewater rapids. Three miles into the trip, you’re faced with the infamous class V “Boulder Drop.” This drop challenges even the most experienced boaters. Exhilarating rapids will keep your adrenaline pumping the entire trip! A photographer will be there to capture the most memorable moments so you can share them with your friends, Family and co-workers (photos are available for viewing and purchase). At the end of the trip, you’ll enjoy a quick shuttle back to the River House for a delicious dinner (included in the price). With the onsite café, you can also enjoy an adult beverage or espresso, if you’d like. Difficulty: beginner; prerequisite: confident swimmer; time: 10 hours. Minimum age: 16. Depart from the Northwest Adventure Center at Lewis North at 11 a.m. or McChord Field’s Adventures Unlimited at 11:15 a.m. Preregistration required by 5 p.m. Wednesday, July 6. ($120)
San Juan Island day trip
This one-day kayaking trip features fantastic views of the Olympic Mountains and British Columbia’s Vancouver Island. Saturday, July 16, paddle along the west side of San Juan Island, enjoying the beauty of storm-sculpted evergreens and rocky cliffs covered in grasses and wildflowers. Dense kelp forests sway in the currents and the steep cliff shores are sprinkled with purple sea stars and barnacles. Keep an eye out on this trip — orcas, along with other oceanic wildlife, may be visible. Trip fee includes: ferry pass, launch fees, gear, instruction and guide. Difficulty: easy; distance: 4 miles; time on water: 3 hours. Minimum age: 12; younger than 18 must be with a parent/guardian. Departure time from the Northwest Adventure Center at Lewis North will be based on the ferry schedule. ($150)
Sea kayak Cutts Island
Don’t miss this South Sound classic Saturday, July 2.
Begin the trip in Carr Inlet and paddle to Cutts Island and around Raft Island before returning to the van. Cutts Island has a steep rock face on the south end, and there are many birds that make this island their home. The water in this area is known to be a little warmer than other places in the Sound, so take a dip while enjoying lunch and exploring the island. Difficulty: beginner–intermediate; distance: 6 miles; paddle time: 3.5 hours. Minimum age: 12. Depart from the Northwest Adventure Center at Lewis North at 8:30 a.m. ($60)
Sea kayak skills class Outdoor Recreation offers five levels of two-hour kayak skills classes. • Level one: proper paddling techniques and how to buddy-rescue. • Level two: edging maneuvers and selfrescue. • Level three: recovery techniques and muscle memory exercises for the roll. • Level four: multi-day kayak trip prep and t-rescue. • Level five: the roll. The next sea kayak skills class is Tuesday, June 21. You may start at any time and master as many of the levels as you’d like! Meet at Kimbro Pool inside McVeigh Sports & Fitness Center at 7:30 p.m. Minimum age: 12 ($25)
Sunset SUP & steak Head to American Lake Thursdays, June 23 and July 7 for an enjoyable paddle until the sun sets. All ages are welcome, but children younger than 12 must be on a board with an adult; steak dinner is an optional add-on. Depart from the Northwest Adventure Center at Lewis North at 6 p.m. Preregistration is required by 5 p.m. Tuesday, June 7. ($30; ages; 3–12: $20)
SUP yoga If your yoga routine’s getting a little stale, try the challenge of yoga on a stand-up paddleboard! Take your yoga practice out the doors and into nature Thursdays, June 30 and July 14. Break down the barriers of where your practice
should take place, and change the expectations of what your practice should look like. Our sunset classes cater to all levels — from those with no prior yoga or stand-up paddleboard experience who are inspired to try something new to serious practitioners of both. The trips will reinvigorate you and push you to become an even better yogi than you thought possible — all while enjoying the natural splendor of floating on water. Explore the grounding challenge on a stand-up paddleboard and begin to experience the awakening of your great ability to focus. Each class begins with a brief shore lesson on the basics of SUP, followed by a guided paddling warmup. Work to improve your balance and keep above water (yet don’t be afraid to splash around) with invigorating SUP sun salutations flowing into strengthening and lengthening postures, breathing exercises and guided meditation on American Lake. Meet at the Northwest Adventure Center at Lewis North at 6 p.m. ($35) The Thursday, June 30 SUP yoga is a ladiesonly event.
Wilderness First Aid The WFA course will help you prepare for the unexpected. This fast-paced, hands-on training July 16–17 is designed to meet the needs of trip leaders, camp staff, outdoor enthusiasts and individuals working in remote locations. You’ll be introduced to caring for people who become ill or injured far from definitive medical care. Classroom lectures and demonstrations are combined with realistic scenarios where mock patients will challenge you to integrate your learning. At the end of the course, you’ll have the knowledge, skills and ability to make sound decisions in emergency situations. Minimum age: 18. Meet at the Northwest Adventure Center at Lewis North at 8 a.m. ($225)
/SeeYouOutsideJBLM
JBLMmwr.com
21
focus | sports, fitness & aquatics
intramural & commander’s cup sports
Mark your calendars for upcoming representative meetings If you’re interested in open league volleyball and basketball, don’t miss these meetings at the Warrior Zone: • Volleyball Wednesday, June 1, 6 p.m. • Basketball Thursday, June 2, 6 p.m. League play begins Saturday, June 11. All JBLM DOD ID card holders 18+ are
22
Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus June 2016
eligible to play. Plus, mark your calendar for the representative meeting for Commander’s Cup Golf. Stop by the Warrior Zone Tuesday, June 7, 6 p.m. or McChord Fitness Center Wednesday, June 8 at noon. League play begins Tuesday, June 28. Active duty JBLM Service members are eligible to play. Warrior Zone is located at 11592 17th & D streets, Lewis North. McChord Fitness Center is at 729 5th St. For more information on open league and Commander’s Cup sports, visit JBLMmwr.com/intramural or call 253-967-4768.
Get ‘Down & Dirty’ with JBLM’s revamped mud run + more from Sports, Fitness & Aquatics Tackle all-new obstacles on your quest to get muddier than ever! The JBLM Down & Dirty Mud Run Saturday, June 18 at Soldiers Field House has brand-new obstacles ready to get you muddier than ever! Trudge through the muddy obstacles with your buddies as you trek through the finish line. More mud means more fun, right?! Can you tackle the down-low crawl, sludge slide, slippery slope, offroad tire trail, better jump!, bottomless barrel run and hillbilly hot tub? Registration includes a T-shirt (guaranteed only for those who register by Wednesday, June 8 at 11:59 p.m.; register by this date to get the best prices, too!), custom Camelbak water bottle (for the first 1,000 registered) and a body full of mud! The 5K race and obstacle course has four waves to start (choose between 9 a.m., 10, 11 and noon when you register). There will be draft beer for sale by the Better Opportunities for Single Service Members team, food truck vendors and country music kickin’ up the mud. Dressing up is always encouraged in our fun funs! There will also be giveaways and a special dedication to the U.S. Army for its 241st birthday. Register now at JBLMmwr.com/races. Scott Hansen\Northwest Guardian
Bodybuilding championship
Register now for the annual event The annual JBLM Bodybuilding
Championship is Saturday, July 30 at Nelson Recreation Center. Register for
Down & Dirty Mud Run registration & pricing
Early registration (through Wednesday, June 8 at 11:59 p.m.) T-shirt guaranteed
Late registration (Thursday, June 9–Wednesday, June 15 at 11:59 p.m.) T-shirt not guaranteed
Day-of-race registration
Military/DOD ID card
$15
$20
$30
No DOD ID card
$25
$30
$40
the event by Friday, July 15. Download the form from the Sports & Fitness pages at JBLMmwr.com. Event day information: Prejudging at 9 a.m. Join 2015 State Champion Maviano Grajeda-Tabali at the
/JBLMSportsFitnessAquatics /JBLMraces
show at 5 p.m. JBLMmwr.com
23
focus | youth
Summer fun with sports & camps
Get involved in seasonal youth leagues & multiday sports camps From cycling, softball, golf and more, CYSS Sports offers recreational leagues and fun instructional sports camps. Enrollment for cycling, Special Olympics softball and Special Olympics golf is open through Thursday, June 16. June sports camps include basketball (June 20–23) and archery (June 27–30). The First Tee golf camps run for eight weeks and begin in late June. For details, cost and enrollment, visit JBLMcyssRegistration.com.
YOUTH CENTERS
Check out after-school programs There’s a lot of fun to check out at Hillside Youth Center! If you’re new to JBLM, don’t miss the Teen Newcomers’ Orientation Friday, June 24. If you’ve been at JBLM for awhile, drop by with a registered friend and check it out. Have a great time, fill out an application to become a member (staffers will verify and confirm with parents before final processing) and come as often as you want. Free shuttle service is available with parental consent to registered members of Hillside and McChord youth centers. For details, call 253-982-2040 or 253-967-4441.
babysitting class
Become a certified JBLM babysitter Learn basic care, safety, first aid, CPR and more at Teen Certified Babysitting Classes June 9–11 and June 23–25. Hillside Youth Center hosts the course monthly for ages 12 and older (you must be at least 13 to babysit). Registration is required; call 253-967-4441. Hillside is located at 6397 Garcia Blvd. at Lewis Main.
24
Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus June 2016
Kick off the month with these CYSS dates to know June 3: Clothing swap & end-of-the-school-year fashion show (253-967-4441) June 3: The Sesame Street USO Experience for Military Families “moving” show, 3 & 6 p.m. (Events Tab at fb.com/JBLMcyss) June 4: The Sesame Street USO Experience for Military Families “transition” show, 11 a.m. & 2 p.m. (Events Tab at fb.com/JBLMcyss)
sports & SKIES Affordable summer experiences with SKIES for busy JBLM Families We know you’re busy, so we’ve created a summer schedule of classes and multiday
Ursula Buford
Karate students Kalea and Joshua prepare for class with SKIESUnlimited. Enroll for monthly classes and summer camps at JBLMcyssRegistration.com.
/JBLMcyss for details on weekly summer programming for school age and middle-school/teen youth.
sessions for you to design the perfect summer experience for your child! This summer, SKIESUnlimited is offering multiday sessions in art, theater and more — in addition to the regular class schedule. Pick and choose what works for your summer vacation. Each week in summer SKIES will have a different theme and everyone’s invited to dress the part — themes include superheroes, Dr. Seuss, under the sea and wacky hair.Check out some of our summer fun classes and camps below! Mondays in June: Create music and play together with Sensory-Friendly Parent-and-Me Music Class (10–10:30 a.m.) and Parent-and-Me Music (10:30–11:30 a.m.). June 27–30, Messy Art Youth ages 5–12 will have a blast making mud pies, drawing with sidewalk chalk and painting with their hands and feet! The fun is 1:30–3:30 p.m. Saturday, July 2, Earth Babies storytime in the park Families are invited to meet at Discovery Village Park at 10 a.m. for nature-based stories, songs and music. Bring a blanket and a snack — and extend the fun by playing in the park with new friends after storytime! The park is in the Discovery Village Family Housing Community at the corner of Garcia and Blaine. (Designed for ages 6 months through 8 years but all ages are welcome). July 25–28, Creative Arts Open to ages 6–12, youth will learn new skills, meet friends and express themselves artistically with music, dance, art and theater. Camp is 1–4 p.m. July 29–30, “The Nutcracker” auditions We’re auditioning children ages 5 years and older (and their parents!) for our annual holiday production of “The Nutcracker.” Share your dance, theatre and gymnastics talents at auditions Friday, July 29, 2–7 p.m. and Saturday, July 30, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Aug. 1–4, Parent-and-Me Art, Story and Music Children 6 months–5 years and their caregivers will enjoy spending time together while exploring the world of music and sharing in art and story, 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Aug. 8–11, Special Needs Art and Music Designed for children with special needs ages 6–12 years, camp includes lots of art choices (including wheels in motion for friends in wheelchairs), clay play, painting and drawing while music options introduce activities to help soothe and inspire campers to feel the magic and fun of summer! Camp is from 1–3 p.m. Aug. 15–19, SKIES Olympics Finishing the summer off with a grand finale, students are invited to take part in a week of full-day fun honoring the summer Olympics through gymnastics, karate, boxing, theater, art, music and dance. The week includes prizes and an awards ceremony! To enroll in SKIES, visit JBLMcyssRegistration.com. Children must be registered with CYSS. To register with CYSS, visit fb.com/JBLMcyss for a registration checklist and call 253-966-CYSS (option 4) for a registration appointment. JBLMmwr.com
25
focus | military & Family readiness
Fun times at EFMP camps & Read on to explore what’s scheduled this month with JBLM Armed Forces Community Service EFMP camp season is nearly here! Are you ready?
Exceptional Family Member Program staff
JBLM Families enjoyed pontoon boat rides on American Lake during 2014’s EFMP Camp JBLM. The annual event offers a weekend camping experience for JBLM’s Exceptional Family Member Program Families. This year’s “Go for Gold” camp is Aug. 5–7 and features fishing, arts and crafts and boat rides. There’s also a day-only option for Saturday, Aug. 6. For more information, email the camp coordinators at stacie.j.pogoncheff.vol@mail.mil and lynn.f.shick.civ@mail.mil.
26
Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus June 2016
AFCS events camp prime time 2016
Spend a weekend in the Wenatchee Forest Camp Prime Time is a nonprofit established to provide a weekend, recreational opportunity in a wilderness setting for Families with a child with special needs. Located in the Wenatchee National Forest, Families stay in cabins and enjoy hearty meals prepared by Lewis-McChord Communities volunteer staff. Activities include swimming, fishing, hiking, boating, arts and crafts, games and an outdoor movie. This year’s camp is Aug. 26–28. Families may register for an opportunity to participate using Eventbrite. Names will be drawn Wednesday, July 6; those selected will be notified and have the option to accept or decline a cabin. Families choosing to participate will submit a refundable $25 deposit no later than Wednesday, July 20 at 4 p.m. Contact the EFMP Coordinator at 253-967-3464, nancy.e.dozier.civ@mail.mil or in person at the AFCS EFMP office in Waller Hall (room 400) for more information. Camp Prime Time is free of charge; however, Families must provide their own transportation to and from camp. The camp is about a two-hour drive from JBLM. Parents are responsible for the supervision and medical care of their children throughout the three days.
EFMP CAMP JBLM
‘Go for Gold’ at JBLM’s own EFMP Camp at Lewis North The 9th Annual Exceptional Family Member Program Camp, “Go for Gold,” is Aug. 5–7 at the Northwest Adventure Center and Shoreline Park at Lewis North. This event is open to the entire exceptional Family member military community. A Saturday day camp will be held Aug. 6 from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Activities include fishing, pontoon boat rides, arts and crafts and more. Lunch will be provided. Registration begins in July. Families interested in an overnight cabin stay (Aug. 5–7) will have the opportunity to submit their names for a drawing. Those selected can accept or decline cabin accommodations. For more information, email this year’s camp coordinators at stacie.j.pogoncheff.vol@mail.mil and lynn.f.shick.civ@mail.mil. AFCS information continued on the next page.
/JBLMafcs
Select AFCS events
Date
Details
Ready to Rent
Mondays
253-967-1453
Vocational Rehab & Employment
Mondays
253-966-8433
SFAC Let’s Cook!
2nd & 4th Mondays
253-966-8433
Anger Control Training for Men
Mondays & Wednesdays
253-967-5901
Social Security Disability Application Lab
Tuesdays
253-966-8433
Toddler Play Group (12–24 months)
Tuesdays
253-967-5901
Baby Play Group
Tuesdays & Thursdays
253-967-5901
123 Magic
Wednesdays
253-967-5901
Scream Free Marriage Drop-in Class
Thursdays
253-967-5901
MilSpouse Fest 2016
Thursday, June 9
253-967-2324
Car-Buying Workshop
Tuesday, June 14
253-967-1453
Joint Newcomers’ Orientation
Tuesday, June 14
253-967-3633/ 253-9822695
Mission Resource Expo
Tuesday, June 14
253-967-8430
Financially Fit
Wednesday, June 15
253-967-1453
FRG 101 for Commanders & 1SGs
Wednesday, June 15
253-967-8430
SFAC Social
Wednesday, June 15
253-966-8433
The Complete Federal Résumé
Thursday, June 16
253-982-WORK
YTC Newcomers
Thursday, June 16
509-577-3114
Home-Buying Basics Workshop
Tuesday, June 21
253-967-1453
I Married a Service Member, Now What?
Tuesday, June 21
253-967-2382
Key Caller Training
Tuesday, June 21
253-967-8430
Spouses Out on the Town
Tuesday, June 21
253-967-3633
Army as a Second Language
Thursday, June 23
253-967-2382
SFAC Summer Bash
Friday, June 24
253-966-8433
Smoothing the Way Concept Block
June 28 & June 30
253-967-2382
Treasurer Training (evening)
Wednesday, June 29
253-967-8430
SFAC Rest & Renew
Thursday, June 30
253-966-8433
Financially Fit
Wednesday, July 6
253-967-1453
JBLM Community Update
Wednesday, July 6
253-967-9496
Understanding AER Policies & Procedures
Wednesday, July 6
253-967-1453
Anger Control Training for Women
Tu/Th, July 7–Aug. 2
253-967-5901
Active Parenting of Teens/Tweens
Th, July 7–Aug. 11
253-967-5901
Hunt the Good Stuff in the Workplace
Thursday, July 7
253-967-3971
Interview-Ready Workshop
Thursday, July 7
253-982-WORK
FRG Leadership Training
July 12–13
253-967-8430
Infant Massage
Tuesdays, July 12–26
253-967-5901
Ten Great Dates
Tuesdays, July 12–Aug. 2
253-967-5901
Did You Hear What I Think I Said?
Tuesday, July 12
253-967-2382
Joint Newcomers’ Orientation
Tuesday, July 12
253-967-3633/ 253-9822695
Checking Account Maintenance Refresher
Wednesday, July 13
253-967-1453
Basics of Investing
Thursday, July 14
253-967-1453
Change can be a Good Time to De-Stress
Thursday, July 14
253-967-2382
Résumé 101
Thursday, July 14
253-982-WORK
Treasurer Training (day)
Thursday, July 14
253-967-8430
U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Svc wkshp
Thursday, July 14
253-982-2695
Register for AFCS classes at JBLMafcs.checkappointments.com. For details, call the phone number listed, visit the event calendar at JBLMmwr.com or “like” us at fb.com/JBLMafcs. The AFCS Relocation Readiness Program has briefings, Smooth Move workshops, sponsorship training and resources. Call 253-967-3633 or 253-982-2695 for information.
JBLMmwr.com
27
focus | military & Family readiness
we’re here to help you milspouse fest 2016 JBLM’s Exceptional Family Member Program
This day of fun & networking is coming to JBLM June 9!
The Exceptional Family Member Program is a mandatory enrollment program that partners with other military and civilian agencies to provide a comprehensive, coordinated and multidisciplinary approach for medical, educational and community support services to Families with special needs. JBLM’s EFMP staff and systems navigators can assist you prior to your arrival, while you’re at JBLM and/or prior to a PCS move to a new duty station. Information and referral, advocacy, respite care and case management are available. To further assist Families, EFMP is excited to announce that the Department of the Army and MEDCOM are willing to support and pilot an Autism Service Center at JBLM (tentative opening of January 2017) adjacent to Madigan Army Medical Center that will offer speech-language, occupational, physical and applied behavioral analysis therapies, systems navigation, respite care and parent education and support. We invite you to “like” us on Facebook at fb.com/efmpJBLM. For more information, call 253-967-9704 (let us know if you’d like to receive our monthly newsletter) or visit JBLMafcs.com.
Hey there, Washington #milspouses! Are you ready for a day of fun, prizes, networking and all things #milspouse community — all for free?! Military One Click, together with USAA, is bringing the first-ever #MilSpouseFest2016 to Joint Base Lewis-McChord! The event is Thursday, June 9, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. at the Club at McChord Field. Make sure to RSVP so we save a spot for you! To enroll, go to milspousefestJBLM.eventbrite.com!
parent-&-me fun
Have a great morning at McChord Field’s Escape Zone! Did you know that AFCS has a free parent-and-child play center at McChord Field? The Escape Zone offers parents and their children (ages 5 and younger) a place to learn, socialize, play together and have fun! Be sure to join the Family Advocacy Program for Baby Play Group (Tuesdays, 10 –11 a.m.) and Toddler Playgroup (Tuesdays, 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.). Located at 841 Fairway Rd., Escape Zone is open weekdays, 9 a.m.– noon. For more information, call 253-982-8590/2695.
resiliency tip of the month
Organize your Family’s summer fun, decrease summer stressors School’s out! With the excitement of summer comes the change in routines for everyone in the Family, which can mean added stress at home. It’s a wonderful time to come up with a plan for summer activities (and avoid stressors) with a
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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus June 2016
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Will the military retirement system changes affect you? By Arnie Norem, Program Manager, JBLM Financial Readiness Program
T
he military retirement system will be
Family calendar! At the Families OverComing Under Stress program, helping Families problem-solve is what we do best! Come in to create a progressive calendar that the entire Family can use! FOCUS is located at 2013B N. 3rd St. (at Pendleton Avenue) in Room 331. For more information, call 253-966-6390 or email JBLM@focusproject.org. Plus, you may also visit focusproject.org or fb.com/ FOCUSresiliencytraining.
undergoing major changes based on the recommendations by the Military Retirement Modernization Commission included in the National Defense Authorization Act of 2016. The current military retirement system is basically what’s known as a "defined retirement system.” The high-3 system is the average of your highest 36 months of base pay times 2.5 percent for every year of active duty. If you retire at 20 years, you get 50 percent of the average of your highest three years base pay. At 30 years, you’d get 75 percent. However, because 83 percent of Service members don’t stay in the military for the full 20 years required to get the normal retirement benefit, some changes have been recommended. The new blended system combines a defined benefit and a defined contribution to the Thrift Savings Plan. Plus, there’s a continuation pay bonus option at 12 years of active duty service. The defined benefit portion of retirement would be reduced to 2 percent times number of years of service — if you retire at 20 years, you get 40 percent
of your final base pay. There may be an option to take a lump sum at the beginning of retirement and receive smaller payments. The defined contribution portion would use the Thrift Savings Plan. The military would automatically contribute 1 percent of your base pay to your TSP account. Service members who contribute at least 5 percent on their own, will receive up to 4 percent in matching TSP contributions, beginning after of two years of service. You have to complete two years of service before you’re vested (the government’s contributions are yours to keep). The continuation pay portion is a bonus given at 12 years of service to those who commit to an additional four years. The bonus is equal to two-and-half months’ basic pay. One of the benefits of this new system is that if you get out of the military before completing 20 years, you would keep the money you have in your TSP fund. Current Service members who have less than 12 years in by 2018 will be able to choose to switch over to the new system or stay with the old system. Disclosure: The information may change as the Department of Defense develops its policies and procedures to implement the law.
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focus | libraries
‘Read for the Win’ with JBLM’s SUMMER READING PROGRAM BASICS: • Registration opens Monday, June 13. • Program runs June 21–July 29. • Register, read & record to collect prizes!
A
s you “Read for the Win,” lose yourself in good books as you read to earn prizes, participate in fun events and more with the Summer Reading Program! The program runs June 21–July 29, and registration begins Monday, June 13. Register at Book Patch or McChord libraries or at JBLMmwr.com/libraries. The program is simple — once registered, go online to record hours each Family member reads and stop by the JBLM library nearest you to collect your prizes. Grandstaff Library runs a program for adults, and Book Patch runs a program for kids and teens. McChord has programs for adults, teens and kids. Prizes are awarded for every 10 hours read. Any type of reading counts, including e-books, training materials, reading to a child, textbooks, newspapers, even audio books. Once participants read 30 hours, they’ve completed the program and are invited to a finale event at the end of the program. The McChord Library finale is Tuesday, Aug. 2 at 1 p.m. The Book Patch/Grandstaff finale is Thursday, Aug. 4 at 1 p.m.
Book Patch Kid Programs, Thursdays, June 23–July 28, 1 p.m.: Activities include Ultimate Champion! (youth ages 5 and older will see what it’s like to migrate through a salmon challenge course as they read, leap, dash and “swim” to experience the journey and lifecycle), yoga and fun with Kontagious Dance Company and magician Rick Anderson. Book Patch also hosts regular storytime Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. Book Patch Teen Programs, Thursdays, June 23–July 28, 3 p.m.: Teens will have six weeks of crazy, dirt digging and magic-filled activities, including (some times may vary): • Archeological dig! Excavate a real dinosaur bone — just kidding, but you will be digging up something! • X-Treme teen competition! Tackle a small-scale crazy obstacle course. Kick, crawl, squish and waddle to see which teams wins.
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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus June 2016
Grandstaff Adult Programs, Wednesdays, June 29 and July 13, 4 p.m.: Adults will have two awesome events: • Explore Your Creative Genius with Folded Book Art! Don’t throw out books that have seen better days. Learn to turn them into fabulous book art! • Excavation Extravaganza! Unearth amazing artifacts just like Indiana Jones! Discover buried, hidden gemstones with your own hands. We’re going on a little archeological dig and you’re invited! • “Read for the Win” Answer Quest! Pick up a trivia questionnaire at Book Patch or Grandstaff Library Wednesday, June 22 and turn it in to either library by Wednesday, July 27 to be entered to win a fabulous gift basket. You must be at least 18 years old and registered for the Grandstaff Summer Reading Program. For more information, visit Grandstaff/ Book Patch at 2109 N. 10th St. and Pendleton Ave. or JBLMmwr.com/libraries. You may
Join instructor Tonja Phillips for Yoga Storytime at
also call Grandstaff at 253-967-5889 or Book Patch, 253-967-5533. McChord Kid Program, Tuesdays, June 21–July 26, 1 p.m. Tuesdays during the summer, McChord Library will host special programming for kids, with a lineup that includes team sports day, triathlon day, library bocce ball and professional entertainers. McChord Teen Program Tuesdays, June 21–July 26, 3 p.m. Teens will enjoy special programming, too, with Minute to Win It, the Chocolate Olympics, Human Pac-Man and more. Visit McChord Library to vote in the Battle of the
Summer Reading Program buying a car soon? Don’t get taken for a ride!
Learn all the important do’s and don’ts before you step onto the car lot. This free workshop, brought to you by Armed Forces Community Service’s Financial Readiness Program, is Wednesday, June 15 at 4:30 p.m. at McChord Library. Topics include negotiating, trade-ins, discounts, financing, high-pressure sales tactics and tricks to watch out for.
investing 101
Learn the basics of investing with the Financial Readiness Program experts
Scott Hansen | Northwest Guardian
Book Patch, located inside Grandstaff Library at Lewis Main, 2109 N. 10th St.
Books and see the new and improved teen area. McChord Adult Program Tuesdays, June 28 (4:30 p.m.), July 12 (6 p.m.) and July 26 (4:30 p.m.) Don’t worry, grownups, we haven’t forgotten you! Events include a sports nutrition class, Read for the Win Jeopardy and a locked-room challenge. McChord Library’s Summer Reading Program ends at the grand finale party Tuesday, Aug. 2 with food, epic games and bounce houses. For more information, go to JBLMmwr.com/ libraries or McChord Library (851 Lincoln Blvd, ground floor), or call 253-982-3454.
Library events
Understand the differences between stock, bonds and mutual funds and when you should save or invest. Focus is given to mutual funds due to the ease of building instant diversification in the investment portfolio. Understand what to look for regarding fees, expenses, composition of the fund and the fund’s history Wednesday, June 29 at 4:30 p.m. at McChord Library. This free workshop is brought to you by Armed Forces Community Service.
Date
Details
Teen Advisory Committee
Wednesday, June 1, 4 p.m.
Have a voice in books & programming at McChord
Lego Club
Saturday, June 4, 10 a.m.
For ages 3+ at McChord; blocks provided
Yoga Storytime
Wednesday, June 8, 3 p.m.
Literature & fitness with WarriorOne at Book Patch
Novel Navigators
Wednesday, June 8, 4:30 p.m.
“The Girls of Atomic City: The Untold Story of the Women Who Helped Win WWII” by Denise Kiernan
Itsy-Bitsy Storytime
Wednesday, June 15, 10:30 a.m.
For parents & babies to age 2 at McChord
Car-Buying Workshop
Wednesday, June 15, 4:30 p.m.
Negotiating, financing & more at McChord with AFCS
Summer Reading Program registration opens at Grandstaff, Book Patch and McChord! Sensory-Friendly Storytime
Wednesday, June 22, 3 p.m.
Explore in collaboration with SKIESUnlimited at Book Patch
Investing Basics
Wednesday, June 29, 4:30 p.m.
Save or invest? Learn with AFCS
Geek Club
Thursday, June 30, 5 p.m.
Discuss cosplay, anime, manga & more at McChord
Space is limited. Register on the library’s “Calendar of Events” page now (JBLMmwr.com/libraries) or call 253-982-3454.
McChord Library is located at 851 Lincoln Blvd. at McChord Field; 253-982-3454. Grandstaff Library is located at 2109 N. 10th St. (at Pendleton Avenue) at Lewis Main; 253-967-5889. Book Patch is located inside Grandstaff; 253-967-5533. JBLMmwr.com
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focus |
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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus June 2016