Fort Lewis
FOCUS Go Green Kids’ Fest Youth fitness program Bungee jumping
Plus... March Madness at Heroes No-limit Texas Hold ‘em tourney Volunteer of the year nominations
www.FortLewisMWR.com - Your online community connection.
March 2009
Club North on Saturday, March 14 at noon (sign up, 11 a.m.)
Marketing Director Katrina McConnell
Editor
Kimberly Rowe
Senior writer/copy editor Kate Mullinax
Contributers
Curtis Atkinson Elda Auxiliaire Georgia Cartner
Jeremy Marshall
Contributing photographers Song Jordan Toby Bartley
Advertising
Carly Jackson at 253.966.2256 or 253.203.8088; carly.jackson@us.army.mil Tracey Wilkinson at 253.966.2256; tracey.wilkinson@us.army.mil Disclaimers: The Fort Lewis “FOCUS” is a monthly community information source published by FMWR in addition to the Northwest Guardian, a newspaper for command-sponsored and leisure-time activities. Although the information in the issue is current at time of publication, activities and events are subject to change. Please contact the activity for confirmation. Facilities and events publicized in this publication are open to authorized patrons and, where applicable, guests. Opinions are those of the authors and do not speak for FMWR or Fort Lewis. Our hope is that the Fort Lewis community will be motivated to participate in the FMWR activities on the following pages; FMWR Fort Lewis strives to improve the quality of life of our Soldiers and their Families. The use of a commercial sponsor logo or mention of a commercial sponsor or other organization does not constitute a U.S. government endorsement. Submissions are welcome but will be edited for accuracy, clarity and style. Please submit by the first Friday of each month, one month prior to publication online at www.FortLewisMWR.com. FMWR Marketing is located at Building 2013B, N. 3rd St., Fort Lewis, Wash. Our mailing address is Box 339500 MS 20, Fort Lewis, WA 98433-9500. Phone: 253-967-5200/ DSN 357-5200; Fax: 253-967-4992/DSN 357-4992. Visit us online at www.FortLewisMWR.com.
Sincerely, William E. Harvey
Volunteer of the Year nominations accepted through March 23 The Fort Lewis Volunteer Coordinator is accepting nominations for the Volunteer of the Year through Monday, March 23. Categories youth, retiree, active duty, Family and adult. To be eligible: • Volunteer must be registered with the Volunteer Management Information System. • Active duty members must be assigned to Fort Lewis. • Primary volunteer service must be with organization(s) on Fort Lewis during 2008. Describe, in no more than 750 words, why the nominated individual volunteer or Family should be recognized. Nominations will be reviewed by a panel independently and selections will be announced at the annual Volunteer Recognition Scavenger hunt and food drive / courtesy photo
William E. Harvey
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Fort Lewis Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation invites you to visit our facilities and attend our upcoming special events. Stop by the newly renovated Bowl Arena for a few games or a quick lunch. I promise you’ll be impressed by the new look. Whether you are looking for an outdoor adventure trip, Family fun or a place to unwind, Family and MWR can help. This month’s events include Kids’ Fest (pictured; article, page 5) and the first-ever Passport to Travel event hosted by Information, Tickets and Tours. Check out this issue for information on Child, Youth and School Services’ Youth Fitness Program, which strives to help keep your kids healthy and happy (page 6). Learn how to “Go Green” with the help of Fort Lewis Directorate of Public Works on page 12. eting Mark R If you would like additional information, visit MW /F us online at www.FortLewisMWR.com. At y le rt our Web site, you will find hours of operation, phone listings, maps and more to help you navigate through all that is FMWR here at Fort Lewis. In order to continue to offer you, our customers, a quality experience at each facility and event you attend, we need your feedback. Please take a moment to share your comments with us at https://ice.disa.mil. We are here to support you, the Fort Lewis community, and we appreciate your patronage.
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Fort Lewis Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation Director
Phot
Fort Lewis
FOCUS
A word from the director
Luncheon and Awards Ceremony with a date and location to be determined. Nominations must be hand-carried to the Family Resource Center, Bldg. 4274, 9th Division & Idaho. For additional information, call 253-967-2324. Download a nomination form at www.FortLewisMWR.com.
Special events
Flea Market Stop by the Spring Flea Market Saturday, March 7 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the American Lake Community Center for some great finds. For more information, call 253-967-6772. Sponsored by Crescent Realty, Joint Base Financial Alliance, Fort Lewis Ranger, Fort Lewis-McChord Communities and Getting Personal Imprinting.
Passport to Travel Come to American Lake Community Center to plan your next vacation Wednesday, March 11. Join Information, Tickets and Tours and more than 40 travel-related vendors from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Call 253-967-3085 for more info.
Monthly spouse trip Visit Washington and meet new people with the Family Resource Center’s spouse trips! Registration for the April 1 trip to the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival begins Wednesday, March 18. Please call 253-9679496 to sign up. Transportation leaves at 8 a.m. and returns at 6 p.m. Free child care may be available with reservations (253-966-2490). An entrance fee must be paid by each attendee at the festival.
Common Sense Parenting of Toddlers and Preschoolers Raising children can be hard and frustrating at times; however, the rewards are worth the sacrifices. After just a few sessions of the New Parent Support Program class, parents can come to feel they are in charge in a positive way. The class is held Wednesdays March 18 through April 29 from 10 a.m. to noon. Pre-registration for child care required; call 253-966-1088 three weeks prior. To find out more or to schedule, call 253-967-7409. Go to www.FortLewisMWR.com for a list of all Army Community Service programs.
Spring Break Performance Workshop
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This workshop with Cowboy Buck and Elizabeth teaches singing, dancing and more while writing and producing a show for Kids’ Fest. Participants will produce a CD of the songs they write. The
class runs Monday, March 30 to Friday, April 3 from 1 to 4 p.m. at Bowl Arena. It is open to children ages 7-12 and costs $50 per child. Register at ITT, Bowl Arena or Fort Lewis Special Events, Bldg. 2013 Room 20. Call 253-967-5776/6772 for more information.
Scholarship opportunity The Fort Lewis Family Member Scholarship Fund is accepting applications through March 31. Applications are at www.lewisfamilyfocus.com or www.lewis.army.mil/ctr_of_excellence. For questions, send inquiries to ftlewisfamilyscholarship@hotmail.com.
Tax preparation The Fort Lewis Tax Center is open to Soldiers, Families and retirees in Bldg. T6069 (across from the PX) through April 15. Hours are Tuesday through Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more info, call 253-967-1040.
Osprey Club The Teen Zone, SKIES Unlimited and Tahoma Audubon Society are teaming up to offer Fort Lewis youth an outdoor discovery club and action team. Get up-close and personal with habitats and wildlife! Sign up with CYS Services Central Registration, Bldg. 2295. Get out there Wednesdays in April from 4 to 5:30 p.m. For registration info, call 253-967-2494.
AFTB volunteers needed
Army Family Team Building is looking for volunteers to become instructors and volunteer program managers. The next Instructor Training Class is April 13-16. Levels I, II and III must be completed prior to the IT training and can be taken in any order. For class schedule, call 253-967-2382 for information.
Mobilization & Deployment classes Reunion Workshop: at the Family Resource Center Wednesday, March 11 from 6 to 7: 30 p.m. and Tuesday, March 24 from noon to 1:30 p.m. Pre-Deployment Workshop: at the Family Resource Center Thursday, March 5 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. and Tuesday, March 17 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Children and Deployment Workshop for Parents: at the Family Resource Center Thursday, March 12 from 1 to 2 p.m. and Thursday, March 26 from 6 to 7 p.m. Free childcare is available with advance reservations; call 253-967-3397.
Parent University Join Dr. Michael Colson April 4 at Evergreen Elementary and explore the health and well-being changes many combat and other deployed veterans and their Families experience as a result of military commitments. There will be a variety of speakers on various topics, all focusing on the strengths of the Family. Lots of food and many door prizes. More information will be posted to www.FortLewisMWR.com.
Upcoming events with the Fort Lewis BOSS Team Team Lewis Night Celebrate March Madness Friday, March 27 at the Cascade Community Center from 3 to 6 p.m. Enjoy free food (while it lasts), fun games and great prizes. You must be at least 18 to attend and at least 21 to purchase/consume alcohol. For more info, call BOSS 253-967-5636. Sponsored by FMWR, BOSS and the Joint Financial Military Alliance, GEICO, Pioneer Services, Holiday Inn Express and Coinforce.com.
Texas Hold ‘Em Join us at Club North each Thursday for the rest of March at 6:30 p.m. The weekly entry fee is $6, and the weekly prize is a $50 gift card. The finals are March 26, and the grand prize is a trip to Las Vegas ($800 value). Second place will take home a $500 VISA gift card; 3rd place wins a $400 VISA gift card; 4th place: $300 VISA gift card; 5th place $200 Visa card.
DA No-Limit Texas Hold ‘Em tourney Stop by Club North Friday, March 14 for a one-day no-limit Texas Hold ‘Em tourney. Sign-ups begin at 11 a.m., and the playing starts at noon.The entry fee of $15 gets you a seat at the tourney and a buffet of pizza and spaghetti. For prize info, see the ad on page 2. Call 253-9672539 for more information.
Designated driver van The Fort Lewis BOSS Team has your key to a great night with a safe, FREE, no-questionsasked ride home from anywhere on Fort Lewis. The DD van runs Friday and Saturday from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. Call 253-208-9169 if you need a ride.
Easter Dash Join the BOSS Team at Watkins Field Saturday, April 4. Children age 3 and younger: 10 to 10:30 a.m.; ages 4-7 from 11 to 11:30 a.m.; and 8 and older from noon to 12:30 p.m. Sponsored by Fort Lewis Ranger, America’s Credit Union and AMMCO Transmissions. Call BOSS at 253-967-5636.
Kids’ Fest
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“Kids’ Fest is our gift to the local military community for the Month of the Military Child – a festival specifically designed for our military children,” says Special Events coordinator Kate Laverents. This is the 17th year for Kids’ Fest, which always coincides with the Thursday of Clover Park School District’s Spring Break.
safety, self-esteem, respect, teamwork, environment and history. Their songs and skits, which will brighten up the day of educators and students, create enthusiastic audience participation through song and dance, hand movements and laughter,” according to www.beep.8k.com. Hands-on fun and educational activities
Be sure to bring your children - from toddlers to teens - to Kids’ Fest Thursday, April 2! The fun lasts from 1 to 4:30 p.m. This year’s theme – Bonkers for Books – will celebrate literacy and kids’ favorite books. There will also be onstage entertainment, featuring Fort Lewis’ Spring Break Workshop and a Harry Potter magic show. The Spring Break Workshop is a theater/performing arts workshop for children 7 and older. “The Spring Break Workshop is cool. Children’s entertainers Cowboy Buck and Elizabeth come for the week and meet with the kids. They write songs, jokes and skits related to the Kids’ Fest theme, and then put them together into a show, which they perform at Kids’ Fest,” explains Laverents. Buck and Elizabeth also provide a CD with the songs the kids create. Each year Buck & Elizabeth are regulars at numerous schools and festivals. “Their highly acclaimed education through entertainment shows offer a variety of positive, upbeat messages with themes such as
will offer children an afternoon full of excitement and learning. Check out the military displays, a fire engine, bounce houses and a book van giving away free books.Take the entire Family to Bowl Arena to enjoy two free games of bowling plus shoe rental (available during Kids’ Fest hours only)! For more info, call 253-967-5776. Event sponsored by America’s Credit Union, Pacific Medical Center, USAA, GEICO and Fort Lewis Ranger.
Register now for SKIES spring quarter! SKIES Unlimited offers instructional programs in academics, arts, life skills and sports for infants through teens. To ensure class availability, parents are encouraged to register for classes by the first week of each month. Registration closes after the third Friday of each month. Register Central Registration, Bldg. 2295, or call 253-967-2494 for info. Register now for these April classes: * denotes a new class to our program
Artist’s Studio: Painting and Drawing...ages: 8-12 Pint Size Picasso...ages: 3-6 Just Like an Art Star...ages 6-9 Better Your Own World – Journalism for Middle School and Teens Boxing...ages 8-18
Dance...ages 3-12 Flipz 4 Kidz* Mobile Gymnastics Center at Madigan Child Development Center... ages 3-5 Karate...ages 4+ Osprey Club after-school program*...for middle school students and teens Photo and Music Technology...for middle school students and teens Tacoma Little Theatre Presents JUST LIKE US*...a play for ages 7-17 to perform Shorinryu Karate...ages 6+ Gymnastics...ages 2+ Wiggles and Giggles...ages 6 months to 4 years
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Child, Youth and School Services
Sign your children up now for the youth fitness program and fight childhood obesity
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Childhood obesity is a growing problem. Be a part of the solution with Child, Youth & School Services’ Youth Fitness Program. Calling all teens 13 and older! Ready to burn off some energy after eight hours in the classroom? Get your friends and have fun while getting fit after school.
tives to the video gaming environment that is prevalent with our Families. CYSS Sports & Fitness programs can foster youth ‘outside the home’ health and fitness development while stationed at Fort Lewis,” she continued. CYSS registration and a fitness trainer assessment are required. Once the assessment has been completed, goals set and a
The CYSS Youth Fitness Program is available at the Jensen Family Health & Fitness Center Monday through Friday 3 to 7 p.m. and at McVeigh Spor ts & Fitness Center Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. A Note to the Parents “When youth are involved in any sports programs during the critical hours of 3 to 7 p.m., they are less likely to engage in undesirable behavior,” says CYSS Sports & Fitness Director Cynthia Williams-Patnoe. “Promoting sports, health and fitness will give children and youth alterna-
Get off the couch and get moving with the Youth Fitness Program.
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program established, teens may come to the gyms during workout times. Teens should bring their program workout schedule and will need to sign in with CYSS staff at the gym. Staff is on site to oversee the participants during their training. Exercising in pairs is always fun and encouraging, so bring along another registered friend! What you need to participate • Current Child, Youth and School Services registration Visit CYS Services Central Registration (Bldg. 2295; 253-967-2494) and bring the following: ID card, current sports physical (good for 12 months and must be updated annually), immunization record and three local emergency points of contact. • Complete on-site physical trainer assessment • Proper workout attire (jeans and street clothing are not authorized for the Youth Fitness Program)
Join us at Wilson Gym Saturday, March 14 at 3 p.m. for a youth boxing event. Call 253-967-2494 for additional information.
CYSS Sports registration Registration for Girls Fast Pitch will continue through March 13 for ages nine to 13 years. The participation fee is $55. Spring baseball is open to athletes ages five to 15, and the participation fee is $50. Registration for Special Olympics Swimming and Track & Field will be held Feb. 17 through March 9 for ages eight to 18 years. The participation fee is $45. Practice starts March 10. Coaching opportunities available. Register for sports at CYS Services Central Registration, bldg 2295, at 12th and Bitar Ave. If you have a full registration on file and sports physical that is current through the entire sports season, you can use our new FAST lane. For a full CYS Services registration, please bring current shot record, military, DoD or contract ID card, three local emergency contacts and sports physical that will need to be updated yearly. Call 253967-2494 for more information.
Family Child Care Have you ever thought about becoming a Family Child Care provider? This is a great job opportunity if you would like to stay home with your children while earning money. When you become part of the Family Child Care system, this leads to a long-lasting career and opportunities for professional growth. As a provider, you are able to transition from one installation to another. The training and experience gained through the FCC program is transferrable to working in the child development centers or as a paid employee in the Family Child Care office. FCC has an extensive Subsidy Assistance Program for infants, special needs, extended hours, referrals and professionalism. It allows providers to offer good quality care at affordable rates. Subsidies are also used to supply our large resource center where providers can check out toys, resource books, curriculum-themed prop boxes and equipment. In addition, certified providers are given start-up kits to help defray the costs of starting up their child care business. FCC providers also have the opportunity to create their own Web site for marketing their program. So, if you would like the opportunity to earn money, stay home with your children and start a new career, Family Child Care wants you! Call the Fort Lewis Family Child Care Office at 253-967-7364 for additional information.
Libraries & education
Story time, bestsellers at your post libraries “Worlds Connect @ Your Library” The Fort Lewis Libraries will celebrate National Library Week – April 12-18 – with an open house Wednesday, April 15.
It’s never too early to start planning your summer This summer, join us Tuesday mornings for lively story times and Wednesday afternoons for fun-filled and creative activities. Stay tuned for a summer reading events schedule!
New at Crittenberger Library Book Patch and Crittenberger libraries are pleased to announce a new preschool storytime for children ages 4 and 5. This free program will be offered on Wednesdays in April at Crittenberger Library. Your preschooler will hear stories, sing songs and participate in a variety of activities. Pick up a registration packet today at Book Patch Library. Space is limited. For more information, call 253-967-5533.
ment.” Historian Cordery presents a detailed and entertaining portrait of the witty and whipsmart daughter of Teddy Roosevelt. “Princess Alice” was a tempestuous teenager. Smoking, gambling and dressing flamboyantly, she flouted social conventions and opened the door for other women to do the same. Her husband was Speaker of the House Nicholas Longworth, but, as Cordery documents for the first time, she had a child with her lover, Senator William Borah of Idaho. Alice’s political acumen was widely respected in Washington. She was a sharp-tongued critic of her cousin FDR’s New Deal programs, and meetings in her drawing room helped to change the course of history. During the Kennedy and Johnson administrations, her legendary salons remained the center of political ferment. (from publisher’s description)
Check out New York Times Bestsellers from Fort Lewis Libraries
Grandstaff Library – GL, Crittenberger Library - CR Fiction Plum Spooky by Janet Evanovich. (GL, CR)
Join Book Patch Library and all of our favorite storybook characters at Kids’ Fest Thursday, April 2! Play games and participate in fun crafts!
Book Review The Squire’s Tale by Gerald Morris Location: Juvenile Fiction, Book Patch Library This book takes an interesting turn in retelling the tales of King Arthur and his knights. This first story in the series tells of Sir Gawain’s and his squire Terence’s adventures. Terence and Gawain battle an enchantress bound and determined to destroy King Arthur. Together they learn many lessons in their quest to save the kingdom. If you love a good adventure with a mix of the fantastic, read The Squire’s Tale.
New Book at Grandstaff Library
Alice: Alice Roosevelt Longworth, from White House princess to Washington power broker by Stacy A. Cordery Location: New bookshelf, Grandstaff Library Alice Roosevelt Longworth lived her life on the political stage and in the public eye, earning her the nickname “the other Washington monu-
The Host by Stephenie Meyer (GL, CR) The Story of Edgar Sawtelle by David Wroblewski (GL, CR) Agincourt by Bernard Cornwell (GL) Black Ops by W.E.B. Griffin (GL, CR) Scarpetta by Patricia Cornwell (GL, CR) Mounting Fears by Stuart Woods (GL, CR) Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society by Mary Ann Shaffer (GL) Cross Country by James Patterson (GL, CR) The Hour I First Believed by Wally Lamb (GL) Nonfiction Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell (GL) Dewey by Vicki Myron (GL, CR) American Lion by Jon Meacham (CR) The Audacity of Hope by Barack Obama (GL, CR) Dreams from My Father by Barack Obama (GL, CR) Too Fat to Fish by Artie Lange (GL) The Ascent of Money by Niall Ferguson (GL) The Breakthrough by Gwen Ifill (GL) Hot, Flat and Crowded by Thomas Friedman (GL, CR)
Educational opportunities The staff of Stone Education Center appreciates the participation and attendance at last month’s annual Fort Lewis College Graduation Ceremony. Approximately 100 graduates were present with their Families and friends, and yellow ribbons were placed to represent the many deployed Soldiers who completed degrees. Pictures were taken by Samantha Young from the Stone Education Center, and if you could like a copy please see your school. If you would like to get an extra program, please stop by Stone Ed Center’s front reception desk (Bldg. 6242 Colorado Ave.). Education Counseling is available at Stone (253-967-7174) Monday through Wednesday and Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Thursday from11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and at Madigan (253-968-2707), Room G-94-6 (ground floor/Reenlistment Office),Tuesday from 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and Thursday from 1 to 4:30 p.m. No appointment necessary. At the Technical and Academic Resource Center, you may access the Internet, pursue distance learning programs, type term papers and prepare assignments, scan pictures and documents, produce slide shows, setup/access free e-mail accounts, perform research with our CD ROM library, study with our educational English and mathematics CD-ROM collection, make photocopies and print (please provide your own paper). Hours: 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 on all federal holidays). Questions? Call 253-967-2171. As the nationwide leader in technology training, Giant Campus offers free on-site and at-home courses to the Fort Lewis community. Courses that typically cost as much as $699 are offered free exclusively to Soldiers, Family members, USAR Soldiers, retirees and DoD civilians. For class listings and additional information, please visit us online at http://fortlewis.giantcampus.com. Troops to Teachers briefing is Wednesday, March 11 at 1 p.m. at Stone Ed Center. ROTC Green to Gold briefing is at Stone Ed Center Thursday, March19 at 1:30 p.m.
FAA written examinations may be taken at the Voluntary Education Testing Center at McChord Air Force Base. Tests are fully funded for eligible active duty, guard and reserve (CAC must say “Armed Forces of the United States” not “United States DoD/Uniformed Services”); no civilian testing, including retired military, is authorized. Call the Education and Training Center (253-982-5695).
Ready, set...
jump!
1 MARCH: TUBING AT THE SUMMIT – $31 ($28 for youth ages 6-12; $16 for children 5 and younger.) We will travel to the tubing hill at the Summit at Snoqualmie for a great day in the snow. Dress warmly, and get ready to go for a wild ride! Tubing is a blast for all ages. Meet at the NAC at 9 a.m. 1 MARCH: SNOWSHOE COMMONWEALTH BASIN – $30 Join us for an adventurous trek through great snow, varied terrain and a web of trails in a shadowy old-growth forest. You will be able to pause occasionally to take pictures and observe the views of the surrounding peaks. What a beautiful winter wonderland. Difficulty: Moderate. Time: 3.5 hours. Distance: four miles. Minimum age: 12. Meet at the NAC at 7 a.m. 1 MARCH: APRIL HUNTER’S ED CLASS REGISTRATION BEGINS 6-8 MARCH: BELLA DONNA GETAWAY TO SUN MOUNTAIN LODGE – $250 Ladies, want to get away? How does a spa getaway to the beautiful mountains of Eastern Washington sound? Included in the package are two night’s accommodations, five meals, access to the pro cross-country ski trails and equipment, snowshoe equipment, guide service and transportation. This is also the weekend of the Winthrop Hot Air Balloon Festival. For those interested in spa treatments, discounts are available. This is going to be a doozy, ladies! Must pre-register by Feb. 1. Meet at the NAC at 9 a.m. 7 MARCH: CROSS-COUNTRY SKI LAKE EASTON – $30 Combine short, groomed trails, rolling hills, and beautiful views, and you have a great day of cross-country skiing at Lake Easton. Gear, transportation and instruction are provided. You will be fitted for your equipment when you sign up for the trip. Difficulty: Moderate. Time: 3 hours. Distance: five miles. Minimum age: 12. Meet at the NAC at 9 a.m. 7, 28 MARCH: HORSEBACK RIDING – $70 Head to Elbe, a town in the outskirts of Mount Rainier National Park, for a two-hour guided afternoon horseback ride. No experience is necessary. Bring the entire Family along for a great day; all children ages 7 and up are welcome. Space is limited, so sign up quickly! Meet at the NAC at 9:30 a.m.
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8 MARCH: PIKE PLACE MARKET/RIDE THE DUCKS – $40 (Kids 12 and younger are only $25) You haven’t seen Seattle until you’ve
seen it from a Duck! Travelers of all ages love to ride the Ducks! Coast Guard-certified maritime captains will take you on a musical tour of the Emerald City. Amphibious World War II vehicles will show you Seattle from both land and water! You’ll see downtown Seattle, Pike Place Market, historic Pioneer Square, Funky Fremont and then SPLASH into Lake Union for a spectacular view of the city skyline, luxurious yachts and Sleepless in Seattle Houseboats! You will also have time to walk around Pike Place Market for some wonderful shopping and great food. Meet at the NAC at 9 a.m. 8 MARCH: SKI-N-SNOWBOARD AT CRYSTAL – $32 (Transportation only is $16) Tired of the rain? Let’s head for the snow and spend the day at Crystal Mountain! Transportation and gear are provided. You will be fitted for your gear when you sign up for the trip. Lift tickets are not provided but may be purchased at the NAC or ITT. Meet at the NAC at 7 a.m. 11 MARCH: ICE SKATING @ SPRINKER REC – $15 Join us for a fun Family trip to the indoor ice arena at Sprinker Rec Center. This trip includes transportation and skate rental. All ages are welcome. Meet at the NAC at 10 a.m. 13 MARCH: MILITARY APPRECIATION DAY AT CRYSTAL – $32 (Transportation only is $16) Don’t miss the chance to ski or ride Crystal for half-price. Transportation and gear are provided. You will be fitted for your gear when you sign up for the trip. Lift tickets are not provided but may be purchased at the mountain for $29. Meet at the NAC at 7 a.m. Weather-dependent. 14 MARCH: SNOWSHOE PARADISE – $30 Explore Mount Rainier’s Glacier Vista on an exciting snowshoe adventure. You will love this winter wonderland without the summer crowds. Don’t forget to bring your lunch, plenty of water and a camera. Meet at the NAC at 8 a.m. Gear, guide, instruction and transportation provided. Difficulty: Easy. Time: 3 hours. Distance: three miles. Minimum age: 10. Meet at the NAC at 9 a.m. 14, 22 MARCH: STURGEON FISHING TRIP – $180 Join us on an amazing charter in the Portland area, where you will be hunting for keeper sturgeon, which are 42-60 inches long! You will be using light tackle, so be prepared for a battle. Your guide is an entertaining host who will do everything he can to make sure you catch a fish, have fun and be safe. He will fillet your fish, and if you limit early, you can keep fishing catch-and-release! Bring your lunch, water and gear for the weather. We fish rain or shine as the deck can be covered and heated. Transportation, bait and tackle provided.
Outdoor Recreation adventure trips Upper Twin Falls. Then you hike down the trail to check out the awesome views of the 150-foot cascade of the Lower Twin Falls. Be sure to bring your camera, lunch and plenty of water for the trail. Meet at the NAC at 9 a.m.
Departure time TBA according to location. 15 MARCH: IRISH WEEK FESTIVAL – $15 (Kids 12 and younger: FREE) Partake in the festivities at the Irish Week Festival in downtown Seattle. The festival features booths selling Irish and Celtic products, nonstop Irish music, singing, dancing, workshops, lectures, cultural displays, children’s contests and activities. There will also be genealogy and Irish language workshops, cultural exhibits and more. Family-oriented activities include wonderful Irish musicians and champion Irish step-dancers from around the Pacific Northwest. Events for children include the Smilingest Irish Eyes Contest and the Most Irish-Looking Face Contest, and other activities in the Children’s Activities Center. Contemporary Irish short films will be screened during our Irish Reels Film Festival. Meet at the NAC at 11 a.m. 15 MARCH: INTRODUCTION TO MOUNTAIN BIKING – $25 Ever been mountain biking? Want to? Join us for this instructional guide designed for beginners looking to try something new. You will spend the day being taught the basics, while getting plenty of time to work on your new skills. We provide the bike, helmet, gloves and transportation! Location will be determined based on conditions. Meet at the NAC at 9 a.m. 19 MARCH: INDOOR ROCK CLIMBING – $20 Join us as we head down to the Warehouse Rock Gym in Olympia. Climbing gear and transportation are included. No experience is necessary. Meet at the NAC at 5:30 p.m. 21 MARCH: SURVIVAL CLINIC – $25 Are you a Bear Grylls fanatic? Do you hunt or fish? Do you just enjoy the Evergreen State’s outdoor opportunities? If you do anything outdoors, you should have a few basic survival skills. Come learn how to find shelter in the rainforest. You will leave with new skills and a mini-survival kit. Get outdoors with confidence! Time: 4 hours. Minimum age: 7. Meet at NAC at 9 a.m. 21 MARCH: WESTPORT BOTTOM FISHING – $96 Are you ready to get out on the open water and start hauling in fish? Join us on a chartered boat trip out of Westport on the Ranger. Rock fish are always plentiful, and lingcod are real fighters! Dress in layers, and bring raingear, lunch and snacks. Transportation and fishing gear are provided. Meet at the NAC at 4 a.m. 21 MARCH: BUNGEE JUMPING – $125 Join us as we head down to the base of Mount St. Helens to bungee jump off the highest bungee bridge in the country. A full 20 stories high, the Bungee Masters’ spectacular private bridge is nestled in a beautiful emerald green forest above a majestic sparkling river. If adrenaline is what you crave, you will not be disappointed. Includes transportation, two jumps and the coveted Dangerous Sports Club T-Shirt. Minimum age: 16. Meet at the NAC at 9 a.m. 22 MARCH: HIKE TWIN FALLS – $20 Join us on this four-mile roundtrip hike through the lush forests of Twin Falls State Park. This hike is great for waterfall lovers! The highlights of this trail are two waterfallviewing platforms. The upper viewing area is a bridge spanning the South Fork Snoqualmie River, which offers great views of the pretty stair-step
28 MARCH: SEA KAYAK LAKE UNION – $40 Head out with us to paddle in the downtown Seattle area of Lake Union. We will paddle past houseboat communities, yacht yards and the NOAA research-ship facility, as well as many hip and trendy urban neighborhoods. We will stop for lunch at the Aqua Verde Paddle Club where you may eat your packed lunch or purchase a meal for $4 - $12. Difficulty: Easy. Time: 3 hours. Distance: four miles. Minimum age: 12. Meet at the NAC at 9 a.m. 28 MARCH: GRAY WHALE WATCHING – $45 (Ages 5-14: $40, kids under 5: free) The majestic California gray whale can be seen off the Washington coast every Spring. Gray whales get up to 47 feet long and weigh as much as 70,000 pounds. Join us as we travel to Westport to watch them on their northern migration, which begins in Baja, Calif., and ends in their arctic feeding grounds in the Chukchi and Bering seas. Meet at the NAC at 7 a.m. 29 MARCH: SKI-N-SNOWBOARD AT THE SUMMIT – $32 (Transportation only is $16) Tired of the rain? Let’s head for the snow, and spend the day at the Summit at Snoqualmie! Transportation and gear are provided. You will be fitted for your gear when you sign up for the trip. Lift tickets are not provided but may be purchased at the NAC or ITT. Meet at the NAC at 7 a.m. 29 MARCH: SEATTLE UNDERGROUND TOUR/PIKE PLACE – $30 (Ages 13-17: $27; ages 7-12: $22) Have lunch in Pike Place Market and scope out the local shops before we head to Seattle Underground for a private tour. End the day with a walk through the new outdoor art park in downtown Seattle. Transportation and entrance fees are included, but lunch is not. Minimum age: 7. Meet at NAC at 11:30 a.m. • If you have your own group and would like to schedule a private trip, call us! We do customized trips! • Location of trips subject to change. • Participants 17 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Check with program staff for specific age requirements for each trip. • Register at the Northwest Adventure Center in advance on North Fort seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Pre-registration is required for all trips. • Reasonable accommodations will be made for people with special needs. • For more information, call 253-967-6263 or e-mail lewisodrec@conus.army.mil.
Sports and Fitness upcoming events • St. Patty’s Day 5K & 10K Run: March 14 Sponsors: Joint Base Financial Alliance, USAA and Fort Lewis Ranger
• Extreme Mountain Bike Race #1: March 28 Sponsors: Fort Lewis Ranger
• Army vs. Air Force basketball game: April 3 Sponsors: USAA • Family Airfield 4.3 Challenge: April 25 Sponsor: Fort Lewis Ranger More information: www.FortLewisMWR.com or 253-967-2604.
9
Have your voice heard with the Interactive Customer Evaluation
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The Interactive Customer Evaluation system is a major component to providing individual feedback as part of the Customer Management Services program. It provides direct feedback of services received by individuals and promotes rapid interaction between service providers and the customer. It is often thought that the only purpose of a customer service system like ICE is to submit a complaint for poor or unsatisfactory service. That is a valuable part of the purpose of ICE, but it is not the singular purpose. As was mentioned last month, the overall satisfaction rate for services provided at Fort Lewis was almost 87 percent, and it is rising each month. Along with this improved satisfaction rate are numerous comments about the excellent service that is being received to include recognition of individuals for their outstanding service. To give you an idea of this, here are a few comments that have been received during the past three months.
Libraries I am retired Army but would never trade this library for my town library. You’re great. Lodging Facilities were excellent. All staff was very helpful and accommodating. Very pleased with visit and service by all. Thank you all. Force Protection Feel safer on post. Great gang awareness briefing for our school
leadership. Threat Assessment for our unit display was timely and provided good insight. ACS – Employment Readiness I followed the resume example provided and feel the information this office provided made me successful in gaining employment quickly. Vehicle & Weapons Registration Great experience, no wait, friendly staff. I think the Fort Lewis registration rocks; it has far superior service compared to any other vehicle registration office. CYS Services – Beachwood The staff is polite and respectful; they always have the information that I need. Thank you to the ladies in Module 10, they have been fantastic with our daughter. She really enjoys going to daycare. Security Division The Installation Security Office has always provided us with a great level of support despite shortages in personnel. DPW DPW gave me more help in one day than another agency gave me in 30. ACES – Counseling Section Visited four separate occasions. Seen by different counselors with great continuity of care – seamless.
These are but a few of the great comments received, and each indicates a customer that not only was satisfied with the service they
Lewis-McChord Communities just the place™ ...
received but were also willing to acknowledge it and let the service provider know. An important part of customer service is knowing that you are doing a good job and that the customer recognizes it. That includes at the individual level. During the month of December 113 individuals were mentioned by name as having provided excellent service. This information was passed to their supervisors, and they were also recognized in front of their fellow workers. If you used one of the services at Fort Lewis and were pleased with that service and the way you were treated, put in an ICE comment and let the management know. If you want to recognize an individual, please take the time to get a complete name. As always, ICE is accessible online through various Fort Lewis Web sites. From the Fort Lewis home page, www.lewis.army.mil, customers may click on the ICE logo to be forwarded directly to the Fort Lewis ICE site. Customers may also naviagte to http://ice. disa.mil/index.cfm?fa=site&site_id=348 to go there directly. The ICE system is monitored daily to ensure customers requesting a response receive their response within three working days. Please answer all the questions; they help us in providing you the best service possible.
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McChord Family Housing Office
2150 Liggett Ave., Building 2150 Fort Lewis, WA 98433
552 Barnes Ave McChord AFB, WA 98438
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www.lewis-mcchordcommunities.com
Office Hours: Mon-Wed, Fri: 8:00 - 4:00 Thu: 8:00 - 3:00 Sat-Sun: Closed
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Go Green
At the heart of Fort Lewis’ green efforts is sustainability. Sustainability is defined as the concept of meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. More simply stated, do what you can today to help make our world a better place for future generations. Fort Lewis has had green on the mind for quite some time. In 2002, Fort Lewis started an Installation Sustainability Program (ISP) that is built around eight long-term goals. These goals are all designed to answer one question: How can we make Fort Lewis a better place to live and work? Fort Lewis 25 Year Goals
• Reduce the installation’s motor vehicle
and air emissions by 85 percent by 2025. • Reduce total energy consumption by 30
percent by 2015. • Sustain all activities on post using renew-
able energy sources and generate all electricity on post by 2025.
Fort Lewis EMS Objectives • Promote sustainable decisions and activities, increase energy efficiency
Students in grades 3-5 are invited to enter an Earth Day Poster Contest. Visit https://sustainablefortlewis.army.mil/ for details. • Create sustainable neighborhoods for
a livable Fort Lewis community that enhances the Puget Sound Region. • Cycle all material use to achieve zero net waste by 2025. • Maintain the ability of Fort Lewis to meet its current and future military missions without compromising the integrity of natural and cultural resources, both on the installation and regionally. • Recover all listed and candidate federal species in the South Puget Sound Region. • Treat all wastewaters to Class A reclaim standards by 2025 to conserve water resources and improve Puget Sound quality. The sustainability teams are composed of six different groups, all working toward 12 achieving Fort Lewis’ 25-year goals.
and reduce office waste. • Reduce trash, waste and wasteful
practices. • Comply with the installation’s
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“We save all our plastic, paper, anything that can be recycled.” Spec. Kevin Martin, Fort Meade, 55th Combat Camera
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What “green” practices do you have?
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The teams consist of air quality, water resources, products and materials, sustainable training lands, energy and the sustainable community team. Each team is made up of members from across the Fort Lewis professional community. The Installation Sustainability Board is chaired by the Commanding General, and its mission is to keep the leadership informed of the growing green progress being made. Working hand-in-hand with the ISP is the Environmental Management System (EMS). The ISP is built around long-term goals, and the EMS offers a way to attain these goals through short-term objectives. EMS tailors the 25-year goals by establishing environmental policy, setting the organizational structure, defining the planning process, assigning responsibilities, institutionalizing best practices, documenting procedures, standardizing processes and allocating resources. The Army adopted EMS in 2001 as mandated by Presidential Executive Order as a way to help support the installation’s sustainability efforts. EMS is designed to be a better-organized system that keeps things from falling through the cracks.
We ask, you answer.
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In the words of Kermit the Frog, it’s not easy being green, but Fort Lewis is doing a great job of it! You may be asking yourself, “What does ‘going green’ mean?” Going green means thinking about your lifestyle’s impact on the environment and making choices to help take care of where you live.
FMWR Focal Point
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Fort Lewis – Getting greener by the day
“I am from Texas and I am impressed with how in Washington, everywhere you go there is a spot for things to be recycled.” Heather Lane, visiting sister
“Here in the States, honestly none, but back home in Italy we separate items, including food items that can be composted.” Ylenia Ballistrery, spouse
“A lot of times I have magazines and bring them to WTB at the hospital, because even though I’m done with them other people can still use them.” Lt. Col. Frank McDunnah,Warrior Transition Battalion
“I carpool with my husband and I only go shopping one day a week.” Sergeant First Class Maria Sabala, Recruiting Command Army Guard, Camp Murray
“I am on a recycling schedule at my home.” Charles Griffith, retired
energy conservation progress. • Develop a plan to convert fleet
vehicles leased through GSA and organization vehicles to alternative fuel capable. • Ensure that all organization alternative fuel capable vehicles use the appropriate alternative fuels. • Ensure that all vehicles comply with the installation’s anti-idling program • Support the installation Ride Share program. Here at the Directorate of Family and Morale,Welfare & Recreation, we’re doing our
part to help Fort Lewis stay green. DFMWR is working to conserve energy by turning off the lights when we leave, turning down the heat, recycling waste, replacing vehicles with efficient, low-energy vehicles, buying boat motors that are safer for our waters, conserving water and by composting pre-consumer food waste from all FMWR clubs and child care centers.Together, we are working to make Fort Lewis a better place to work and live today, tomorrow and always. – Kate Mullinax, FMWR Marketing
Food and fun with Family & MWR How you can help… Transportation • Combine trips to minimize driving time • Start a carpool for work or school • Drive an efficient/alternative-fueled vehicle • Keep your car tuned up; check your tires weekly to ensure proper inflation • Turn off your vehicle when parked/ waiting for more than 10 seconds Energy conservation • When at home, turn the thermostat down 3 degrees in winter and up 3 degrees in summer; when not at home, turn heat or air conditioner off whenever possible • Turn off lights when not in use • Replace a regular incandescent light bulb with a compact fluorescent light bulb • Purchase Energy Star appliances when replacing old appliances • Turn off electronic devices you’re not using • Wash clothes in cold water Water conservation • Don’t water the street/sidewalks • Turn the faucet off while washing hands, brushing teeth and shaving. • Only run the clothes washer and dish washer when full • Install low-flow showerheads and low-flush toilets Reduce, reuse, recycle • Purchase food and other items in bulk • Stop junk mail by adding your name to a do-not-mail list • Use the Thrift Shop, donate to charity or find new ways to use unwanted items • Consider buying a used fuel-efficient car instead of a new car • Pack your lunch in washable rather than disposable containers • Make the effort to recycle glass • Purchase recycled products Food • At your grocery store, buy locally grown and produced foods • Buy fresh foods instead of frozen Lifestyle and community • Buy local first • Participate in government • Inspire at least two friends to become “Part of the Solution” https://sustainablefortlewis.army. mil/pledge.asp
Everyone - from salsa dancers to golfers and single Soldiers to Families - has options with Fort Lewis FMWR.
Renovation complete!
4-10 eat for $6.95 and children 3 and younger eat free. Make reservations by calling 253-964-1209.
Watch UFC Fight 96 here
Madigan Café, Bldg. 9903 Dance the night away to Latin music every Friday from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. 253-964-4054 (7 a.m. to 1 p.m.) or 253-964-1209
The Bowl Arena staff is excited to welcome the community to check out the new look! Call 253-967-4661 for more information. UFC fights are available on the big screen at Club North and Heroes Sports Lounge. The next big match-up is Saturday, March 7. Sponsored by Pioneer Services, GEICO and United Rentals.
It’s BUNCO time
The first of three Bunco nights is Wednesday, March 18, and you’re invited to enjoy “A Night of Indulgence.” Check-in time: 6 to 6:45 p.m.; play begins at 7 p.m. Call 253-964-0331 for info.
German Buffet
Join us Thursday, March 19 from 5 to 8 p.m. for the German Buffet at American Lake Community Center. Adults: $14.95; children 4-10: $6.95; children 3 and younger: free. Reservations: 253-964-1209.
March Madness
Check out the hardwood action on the big screen at Heroes Sports Lounge. First-round action starts Thursday, March 19 with the championship game Monday, April 6. New hours: Monday through Wednesday from 4:30 p.m. to close (happy hour on Monday from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.), Friday from 3 p.m. to close (happy hour from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.) and Saturday & Sunday from 10 a.m. to close. Call 253-964-0331 for information.
Easter Brunch reservations
Join us at American Lake Community Center for Easter Brunch. Cost for adults is $18.95; children
Outside the gates MARCH 7: Career Day High school and college students are invited to learn about careers with animals. Event is free for students. Those not 18+ must be accompanied by a paying adult. Northwest Trek Wildlife Park; 360-832-7166, nwtrek.org MARCH 13 - APRIL 5: Footloose Check out this musical for hot
The Cascade Community Center hosts a monthly event for Families of deployed Soldiers. For dates and info: www.FortLewisMWR.com. Especially Espresso Shops Stop by one of our three locations for a variety of drinks to include Battle Bean coffee. Food items also available. 253-964-8838, Bldg. 2166 253-964-8837, Bldg. 11589 North Fort 253-9648152, Stone Education Center Club North, Bldg. 3-A-3 Listen to R&B Friday nights and country Saturdays from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. Home to Old Skool Fridays: appetizers and music courtesy of Lady Scorpio. St. Patrick’s party Friday, March 14 at 9 p.m. Contests, drink specials and favors. 253-964-0144 American Lake Community Center is home to Five Star Catering. Office hours are Tuesday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. 253-964-1209/2769 Eagles Pride Golf Course is operating under Winter hours and open-play golf. Check out the Pro Shop. 253-967-6522 Russell Landing Café, Bldg. 8981 Visit www.FortLewisMWR.com for closure info.
dancing and music. Tacoma Musical Playhouse; 253565-6867, tmp.org MARCH 21: The Most Magnificent Mutt Show This contest is open to children 14 and younger and their dogs (no other animals, please). The winning contestant will be a “Very Important Mutt” in the Junior Daffodil Parade. Frontier Park in Graham, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; 253-627-6176
MARCH 21-22: NW’s Largest Family Festival Enjoy a great weekend with your Family while focusing on active, healthy lifestyles. Entertainment for babies, kids, teens and adults. Greater Tacoma Trade & Convention Center; 360-514-0767, pintsizedproductions.com The appearance of events does not constitute an endorsement of any business, organization or event by the U.S. Army, Fort Lewis or FMWR. Events subject to change or cancellation. Call number listed for entry fee and details.
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Jus t t i p s .. .
I Corps Readiness
Building self-esteem: Things you can do right away – every day – to raise your self-esteem
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Pay attention to your own needs and wants. Listen to what your body, mind and heart are telling you. For instance, if your body is telling you that you have been sitting down too long, stand up and stretch. If your heart is longing to spend more time with a special friend, do it. Take very good care of yourself. Begin today to take good care of yourself. Treat yourself as a wonderful parent would treat a small child or as a best friend might treat another. If you work at taking good care of yourself, you will find that you feel better about yourself. Here are some ways to take good care of yourself:
about yourself, that you spend little or no time doing things you enjoy. Make a list of things you enjoy doing, and then do some thing from that list every day. • Get something done that you have been
putting off. Clean out that drawer. Wash that window. Write that letter. Pay that bill.
• Do things that make sure of your own
special talents and abilities. If you’re good with your hands, then make things.If you like animals, consider having a pet or at least playing with friends’ pets.
• Dress in
clothes that make you feel good about yourself.
• Eat healthy foods and avoid junk
food. A healthy diet is usually five or six servings of vegetables and fruit, six servings of whole grain foods, two servings of protein foods like beef, chicken, fish, cheese, cottage cheese and yogurt.
• Give
yourself awards – you are a great person.
• Exercise. Moving your body helps you to
feel better and improves your self-esteem. Arrange a time every day or as often as possible when you can get some exercise.
• Spend
time with
• Do personal hygiene tasks that make you
feel better about yourself. • Have a physi-
cal exam each year to make sure you are in good health.
• Make your living space a place that honors
the person you are.
• Display items that you find attractive or that
remind you of your achievements or of special times or people in your life.
• Make your meals a special time. Turn off the
TV and stereo. Set the table, even if you are eating alone. Light a candle or put some flowers in the center of the table. If you eat with others, encourage discussion. • Take advantage of opportunities to
learn something new or improve your skills. Take a class or go to a seminar. • Begin doing those things that you know will make you feel better about yourself – like going on a diet, beginning an exercise program or keeping your living space clean. • Do something nice for
another person. Smile at someone who looks sad. Say a few kind words to the checkout cashier. Send a card to an acquaintance. Volunteer for a worthy organization. • Make it a point to treat
yourself well every day. You may be doing some of these things now. There will be others you need to work on. You will find that you will continue to learn new and better ways to take care of yourself. As you incorporate these changes into your life, your self-esteem will continue to improve. – United States Department of Health and Human Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
• Plan fun activities
for yourself. Learn new things every day. • Take time to do things
you enjoy. You may be so busy, or feel so badly
Take time to do something you enjoy, such as catching up with friends on e-mail.
people who make you feel good about yourself – people who treat you well. Avoid people who treat you badly.
14
Outcomes & Wellness Service
What is salmonellosis? Salmonellosis is an infection with bacteria called salmonella. Most persons infected with salmonella develop diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps 12 to 72 hours after infection. Most people recover without treatment; however, in some people, the diarrhea may be so severe that the patient needs to be hospitalized. In these patients, the salmonella infection may spread from the intestines to the blood stream and other sites. The elderly, infants and those with impaired immune systems are more likely to have a severe illness. What sort of germ in salmonella? Salmonella are microscopic living creatures that pass from the feces of people or animals to other people or animals. Salmonella germs have been known to cause illness for more than 100 years and were discovered by American scientist, Salmon, for whom they are named. How can salmonella infections be diagnosed and treated? Lab tests identify salmonella in the stool of an infected person. Salmonella infections usually resolve in five to seven days and often do not require treatment other than oral fluids. Antibiotics are not usually necessary unless the infection spreads from the intestines. Are there long-term consequences to a salmonella infection? A small number of people with salmonella develop pain in their joints, irritation of the eyes and painful urination. This is called Reiter’s Syndrome. It can last for months or years and can lead to chronic arthritis, which is difficult to treat. How do people catch salmonella? Salmonella live in the intestinal tracts of humans and other animals, including birds. Salmonella are usually transmitted to humans by eating foods contaminated with animal feces. Contaminated foods usually look and smell normal and are often of animal origin, such as beef, poultry, milk or eggs (any food, including vegetables, may become contaminated). Thorough cooking kills salmonella. Food may also become contaminated by the hands of an infected food handler. Salmonella may also be found in the feces of some pets, especially those with diarrhea, and people can become infected if they do not wash their hands after contact with pets or pet feces. Reptiles, such as turtles, lizards and snakes, are particularly likely to harbor salmonella, and many chicks and young birds carry salmonella in their feces. People should always wash their hands immediately after handling a reptile or bird. Adults should also assure that children wash their hands after handling a reptile or bird or after touching its environment. What can a person do to prevent this illness? There is no vaccine to prevent salmonellosis. People should not eat raw or undercooked eggs, poultry or meat. Persons also should not consume raw or unpasteurized milk or other dairy products. Produce should be thoroughly washed. Cross-contamination of foods should be avoided. Uncooked meats should be kept separate from produce, cooked foods and ready-to-eat foods. Hands, cutting boards, counters, knives and other utensils should be washed thoroughly after touching uncooked foods. Hands should be washed before handling food and between handing different food items. – National Center for Zoonotic Vector-Borne, and Enteric Diseases
Self-defense classes for women
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The Family Advocacy Program has begun offering monthly women’s self-defense classes on post. “Rape Aggression Defense is a program for women interested in learning how to feel empowered,” Jane Mouatassim, a Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation program specialist and RAD instructor said. The course curriculum teaches techniques for personal safety with focus on risk awareness, reduction, recognition and avoidance.
The RAD course at Fort Lewis starts the first Wednesday of each month. Interested Soldiers should call 253-967-2429 to take RAD at the Combatives Academy. For more information about the RAD course, call Fort Lewis Family Advocacy at 253-967-5901. Mouatassim said the intent of the program is to teach participants how to be safe, empowered and to learn assertive communication strategies. The monthly program is open to all women on post, but active-duty, first-term female Soldiers are preferred. “We want to offer it predominantly to the firstterm female Soldier,” Mouatassim said, “so she’s Firsthand experience aware of risks that are out there or that she’s not Editor’s note: FMWR Marketing’s Elda aware of.” Auxiliaire attended the RAD class. This is the initial program on post, but FMWR Here, she shares her experience. hopes to expand the program. My classmates ranged from “We hope to get RAD for men also within the civilians, retirees and spouses, next few months,” she said. all with one common goal: She said RAD’s lesson plan works in conjunction learning ways to protect with the current sexual assault training on post. ourselves in the instance we Sexual assault training is a prerequisite for all have to. deployable Soldiers. By my fourth class I defiMouatassim said there is a focus on enrolling nitely felt more prepared than Soldiers for the RAD course because they are the first. The instructors went constantly in volatile situations. “When you’re in over moves with us that I feel the field, you have to be aware of what’s around I can execute and use. A difyou,” she said. ferentiation of the RAD class Each class gradually progresses from learning from others is that once a modules and counter-intrusive responses to the student takes the course, they final exercise of physically defending one’s self may attend any RAD course against a perpetrator. of that system in the U.S. “It’s really empowering, even after the first class,” and Canada to practice free, Mouatassim said. which I think works perfectly The course’s either three or four sessions covers in our Army culture. 12 hours of material. Coincidentally, I was out She said the proactive guidance throughout the with my brother and I told class prepares participants on how to respond in a him that I took this course. worst-case scenario. “Perpetrators are sometimes Later on in the day he tried opportunists, they will look for people who are to “attack me,” and I used easily victimized,” she said. a move I learned from the Part of the key to obtaining the proper mindset course. He was very surprised in confrontations that call for self-defense is the at my abilities and even said realization of one’s intrinsic power, she said. “ouch that hurt.” I saw this as “Often times women were taught to not raise a victory because I know that their voice or say anything,” Mouatassim said. if the time ever comes I will She added that the class is a way to teach be able to defend myself. women to use what they have. “There’s a lot of us who have to learn how to say, you’re in my space,” she said. To find out more about registering for classes call 253-967-5901. The RAD program was created in 1989 by Larry Nadeau. Nadeau is a former Marine and police officer. He also created RAD for Men in 2001. Some information has been gathered from the Web site www.rad-systems.com. – By Spc. Aaron Carpenter (reprinted with permission from the Northwest Guardian) 15