May 2009 Fort Lewis Focus

FOCUS Fort Lewis

MWR fun, food, travel and well-being guide.

Get down & dirty Mud Run series

Celebrate Armed Forces Day • Free entertainment for all ages • Military displays & mock battles • Concerts, food, fun and more

Plus: Military Spouse Appreciation Nightlife and more

M ay 2009 FortLewisMWR.com

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Fort Lewis Focus

May 2009

A word from the director

Sincerely, William E. Harvey

FOCUS

INSTALLATION SAFETY EXHIBITION

SAFETY DAY COVER PHOTO Participants from a recent Down & Dirty Mud Run smile through the grime. Prepare to get dirty this Armed Forces Day! Photo by Minerva Hohaia FEATURE The 21st Annual Armed Forces Day celebration Join CC Clowing (above) for free fun and entertainment for everyone as we celebrate our military . . . . . 4 FOOD AND FUN Military Spouse Appreciation Day Free breakfast for military spouses, as well as giveaways and specials . . . . . . . . 6

May 21, 2009

Sheridan Sports & Fitness Center

9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

All Soldiers, DA Civilians and their family members are invited.

Vendors will be providing: Safety Demonstrations Displays Safety hand-outs Hosted by the Fort Lewis Garrison

Triple Threat Triathlon Series . . . . . . . 10 Stay strong during a deployment . . . 11 FAMILY First Swing at Golf Introduce your child to the sport of golf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Bunco, Late Nighter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Pre-deployment workshops Learn how to better prepare yourself . . . . . . . . . . .13

FABULOUS TRAVEL Open House & Yard Sale Great deals and recreation opportunity details . . . . . . 8

FINANCE AND EDUCATION How to avoid identity theft . . . . .14

FITNESS AND WELL-BEING Get muddy Sign up now for the Down and Dirty Mud Run, or try the cleaner

FUTURE ISSUE Funtastics carnival, Freedom Fest and much more

Fort Lewis

Director, DFMWR William E. Harvey

Marketing director Katrina McConnell

Editor

Kimberly Rowe

Senior writer/copy editor Kate Mullinax

Contributing photographers

Toby Bartley, Ken Dietiker, Minerva Hohaia, Song Jordan

Fort Lewis Directorate of Family & Morale, Welfare and Recreation For commercial sponsorship or advertising inquiries, please contact: Carly Jackson at 253.966.2256 or 253.203.8088; carly.jackson@us.army.mil Tracey Wilkinson at 253.966.2256; tracey.wilkinson@us.army.mil The Fort Lewis “FOCUS� is an unofficial information source published monthly by FMWR. All activities described herein are subject to change.

Contact the activity for confirmation. Activities described herein are open to authorized patrons and, where applicable, guests. Opinions are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent FMWR, Fort Lewis or any U.S. government

entity. The use of a commercial sponsor logo or mention of a commercial sponsor or other organization does not constitute U.S. government endorsement. Submissions are welcome but may be edited for accuracy, clarity and style. FMWR Marketing is located at Building 2013B, N. 3rd St., Fort Lewis, Wash. Mailing address: Box 339500 MS 20, Fort Lewis, WA 98433-9500 Phone: 253-967-5200/DSN 357-5200.

FortLewisMWR.com

Table of contents

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We thank our Soldiers for serving, and celebrate our troops with the 17th Annual Armed Forces Day Celebration Saturday, May 16.

The community and the public are invited to enjoy a day of activities, entertainment, fun and food at Watkins Field beginning at 9 a.m. (page 4). For details on the Down & Dirty Mud Run and Army vs. Air Force soccer game, see page 10.

MWR and AAFES have teamed up to celebrate Fort Lewis spouses with Military Spouses Appreciation Day Friday, May 8 at the Fort Lewis Main Exchange (see page 6). A list of events and opportunities for families of deployed Soldiers may be found on page 11.

Our clubs are hosting a number of great events this month including Team Lewis Night and BUNCO, and now is the time to start training for the Triple Threat Triathlon Series hosted by the Sports, Fitness and Aquatics Branch. Details are on page 10.

We are here to support you, and we appreciate your patronage and feedback. Please take a few minutes to share your comments at a new Army OneStop kiosk or online at https://ice.disa.mil (see page 15).

Armed Forces Day Feature

56th Army Band is just one of many entertainment options

By Kate Mullinax

T

The 56th Army Band, America’s Corp Band, will perform at the 21st Annual Armed Forces Day celebration Saturday, May 16 at Fort Lewis.

It will be a smaller band than in years past because 38 members of the 60-

person band are currently on a 12-month deployment with I Corps in Iraq.

“Our primary mission is music, and that’s what our band is doing in Iraq,” says Associate Band Master and Chief Warrant Officer Jesse Pascua. Pascua is the Rear Detachment Commander, who stayed behind to provide musical support at home for events like Armed Forces Day and Freedom Fest.

“On April 4, the First Corps Band made history by becoming the first American military band to perform for President Obama in a major theater of operation. Not since the Korean War has I Corps and the 56th Army Band deployed.

“What makes me really proud is when Soldiers come up to you with tears in their eyes and say ‘Thank you for bringing us something from home.’

It gets their minds off war, and it’s rewarding to see the pride in their faces,” says Pascua.

The 56th Army Band is composed of brass, woodwinds and a rhythm section that includes percussion, guitars and the piano.

Having a diverse musical talent pool is a must. “Within the 60-person unit, you have to have enough people with a variety of talents to form smaller bands. In addition to a marching band, the band can also morph into a jazz band, rock band, show band, brass quintet, Dixie band and the list goes on.”

The 56th Army Band covers a large area encompassing all of the Pacific Northwest. The closest active duty

band is at Fort Huachuca, Ariz. Covering such a massive area leaves the 56th Army Band in high demand, performing roughly 600 shows a year. “A show is a commitment, and that’s everything from a full marching band to sending a lone trumpet player to a funeral,” says Pascua.

Trumpet player Sgt. 1st Class Dwain Graham speaks candidly about his career in the Army Band, “My favorite question I get asked is, ‘I know you’re in the band, but what’s your REAL job?’

We’re in the ‘real’ Army. We are a real job in the Army. ... We all have to wear different hats. Not to toot our own horn (no pun intended), but we’re very intelligent!”

A typical day starts off with PT followed by morning rehearsals until lunch time. Afternoon rehearsals are followed by various administrative duties, and performances in the evening. “It’s definitely not a 9 to 5 job. Part of the beauty of it is you’re not locked into a routine,” says Pascua.

The band’s biggest shows are Freedom Fest and the annual holiday concert.

Be sure to come out to see the band on Armed Forces Day. “It’s a good mix of traditional and the unexpected,” says Pascua. “It’s usually a decision on my part to determine what works best for the crowd, be it a rock band or an ensemble. Rock is popular. We play some patriotic country artists, like Toby Keith and Lee Greenwood.”

There’s a lot of hard work and pride associated with being a member of the 56th Army Band, but when asked the best part, Graham sums it up best, “We get to do something we enjoy for people who truly appreciate it.”

One-wheeled comedy act Eric Haines will have the crowds laughing as he roams the grounds with his mixture of stand-up comedy and bizarre variety acts. His high-energy act – part stand-up, part variety act – combines music, audience participation, a six-foot unicycle routine and more.

4

Fort Lewis Focus

May 2009

100-mile run in support of wounded Warriors

Feature

Staff Sergeant Michael Verdonk of 2-12 FA, 4-2 SBCT will complete a 100-mile run in support – and to raise awareness – of the Wounded Warrior Project. Be there the afternoon of the Armed Forces Day to watch as he completes the 100th mile at the festival grounds.

“I’ve always liked running, but I asked myself one day, ‘Why not do it for something greater than me?’” said Verdonk.The Wounded Warrior Project’s mission is to honor and empower wounded Warriors.

Northwest Military Star Head to the Main Stage at 3 p.m. to watch the top three finishers from Fort Lewis’ Operation Rising Star compete against the finalists from McChord. Staff Sgt.Victor Trinidad of 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment took the top prize in Fort Lewis’ competition last fall. He competed in the finals at Fort Belvoir, Va., last November and finished in the top four.

Photo: Ken Dietiker Not only will there be both historical and modern-day military displays for children and adults alike to explore, but there will also be demonstrations and mock battles all day.

Participants include the groups Great War Historians representing WWI, Tuskegee Airmen representing WWII and Friends of Kilroy. The Philippine Scouts represent the SpanishAmerican era and WWI, and the Buffalo Soldiers comprised the first permanent African American regiments. Also joining the festivities are the Washington Civil War Association, Fort Steilacoom, the Rouge Historians, the Puyallup and Nisqually Native American tribes, 2nd Connecticut Militia Brigade, Teddy Roosevelt, Pugs and Vehicles, Willie & Joe, NW Historical Association and the National Guard Museum.

Entertainment

Times

Location

10 a.m., 1 p.m.

Main Stage Buck and Elizabeth 10:30 a.m.

Watkins Field Tacoma Scots bagpipe performance 11 a.m.

Watkins Field Women’s All-Star soccer game 11 a.m.

Main Stage Gymnastics demonstration 11:45 a.m.

Watkins Field Parachute jump 12:30 p.m., 2 p.m., 4 p.m.

Main Stage Rowdy Refs game show 12:30 p.m.

Watkins Field Cavalry demonstration 1 p.m.

Watkins Field Civil War battle reenactment 2 p.m.

Watkins Field Men’s Soccer - Army vs. Air Force 3 p.m.

Main Stage Northwest Military Star finals 4:15 p.m.

Watkins Field Military dog show 5 p.m.

Main Stage 56th Army Band rock combo Also roaming the festival grounds will be stilt dancer Janet Rayor, magician Nash Fung, CC Clowning,Tall Characters, Professor Bamboozle, Eric Haines,Tall Flower on Stilts and the Mad Hatter Stephon Moody.

The Armed Forces Day festival ends at 6 p.m.

For information about the event and gate access, call the Events Information Line at 253-967-4294.

Focal Point We ask, you answer.

Q

How do you show your appreciation for the Armed Forces?

Photos: SONG JORDAN

“Through the support I give to Soldiers and their families when they come to Army Community Service for assistance.”

– Floyd Richardson, ACS Relocation Assistant “I tell them that we appreciate them for the work we do when they come into our office.”

– Elizabeth Sison, ID card office

“I take care of my husband.”

– Judith Westfall, spouse of retiree

FortLewisMWR.com

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Food and fun

Military Spouse Appreciation Day Military spouses are invited to a free breakfast in the PX food court Friday, May 8 from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Enter to win prizes, and enjoy samples, discounts and makeovers. A free movie will be played at Carey Theater, and for Parents’ Night Out, Clarkmoor Child Development Center will be open from 6 to 10 p.m.

(Reservation at cosmetic counter required; child care reservations required: 253-967-4903).

Club North: Free birthday pizza, block party and more Celebrating a birthday in May? Enjoy no cover, a free 16-inch pizza and be entered into a birthday surprise drawing. Got talent? Then come to Club North Wednesday, May 19 for Open Mic Night from 6 to 8 p.m. Come to a Late Nighter Sunday, May 24. Dance to R&B and hip-hop hits from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. Join Club North for a spring block party barbecue Saturday, May 30 from noon to 8 p.m.

Enjoy the music of a live DJ, dance contest, games and prizes.

And as always, Club North is the place for an early

morning breakfast served on weekends from 2 to 3 a.m. Carry-out available.

the American Lake Community Center is home to German Night. Reservations for the tasty buffet are strongly recommended.

Fort Lewis AAFES PX: Celebrity sightings

Cascade Community Center: Cinco de Mayo and Bunco!

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo (May 5) with Mexican lunch specials. Then reserve your seat for Wednesday, May 13 to be entered into a special drawing during Bunco. Check-in time is 6 p.m., and play begins at 7 p.m.

Author Lily Burana will be signing copies of her memoir Thursday, May 21 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Fort Lewis PX. Burana describes her chance meeting with Major Mike and their whirlwind romance. Though they were an odd couple – a former exotic dancer and an all-American hero – she willingly joined the sisterhood of women whose husbands serve their country in uniform.

Other two-hour PX events include: Saturday, May 2, 1 p.m. Spider Man Saturday, May 9, noon Golden State Warriors dancers and the “new face of the Terminator,” Roland Kickinger Singer Sarah Borges and UFC contender Nate Marquardt will also make appearances this month.

American Lake Community Center: Retiree Appreciation Day and Famous German buffet Retirees will be recognized for the contributions provided to the military and the country Friday, May 15 at the American Lake Community Center from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Various veterans’ organizations, military staff agencies and medical assistance teams will provide on-site services. Then on Thursday, May 21 from 5 to 8 p.m., Madigan Café offers salsa lessons on Friday nights.

Fort Lewis Focus

May 2009

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The Commissary ... itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth the trip!

Help the Fort Lewis BOSS Team win big prizes with the Commissary Commando Competition.

The Defense Commissary Agency is challenging BOSS to come up with creative ways to introduce the Commissary to single service members

and see how many visit their local Commissaries in the month of May! The Fort Lewis BOSS Team could win up to $1,500!

Team Lewis Join BOSS for free food, fun games and prizes Friday, May 15 at the Cascade Community Center at 3 p.m.

Food & entertainment

Location

Phone number

Cascade Community Center American Lake Community Center Madigan CafĂŠ Russell Landing CafĂŠ Bowl Arena Club North Eagles Pride Golf Course Battle Bean coffee shops

Building 2400, Bitar Ave. Building 8085, North Fort Building 9903, Old Madigan Building 8981, North Fort Building 2272, Liggett Ave. Building 3-A-3, North Fort Off I-5, Exit 116 Building 2166, Liggett Ave. Stone Education Center Building 11589, North Fort Lewis Building 2013, N. 3rd St. Arts & Crafts Center, Pendleton Ave. Building 5280, Main Post

253-964-0331 253-964-1209/2769 253-964-4054 253-966-0400 253-967-4661 253-964-0144 253-967-6522 253-964-8838 253-964-8837 253-964-8152 253-967-4294 253-967-5636 253-964-3161

Special events information line BOSS Program Fort Lewis PX

Food and fun

Help the Fort Lewis BOSS Team win up to $1,500

Win big with Texas Hold â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;em Want to get in on the hold â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;em action?

Join the tournament at Club North Thursdays through June 25. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and play begins at 6:30 p.m.

The grand prize is a trip to Las Vegas.

Free Designated Driver Van Volunteer Soldiers drive the BOSS van on Fridays and Saturdays from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. transporting Soldiers between the barracks and on-post clubs. Call 253-2089169 for a safe, no-questions-asked ride!

The Fort Lewis Installation BOSS reps are Sgt. Stephanie Banuelos and Spec. William Bell.

FortLewisMWR.com

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Fabulous travel

Outdoor adventures for everyone

Photos courtesy of Fort Lewis Outdoor Recreation

Free open house and yard sale

Ladies only Glacier View hike

Chilliwack River rafting

Stop by the Northwest Adventure Center Saturday, May 9 from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Get information about outdoor recreation opportunities in the local area at this family-friendly event. Used gear will be sold at excellent rates, and great discounts will be available in the retail store and scuba shop. There will be a climbing wall, trout pond and demo sea kayaks.

Ladies, join the Northwest Adventure Center on this Bella Donna 6-mile hike to an outstanding view of Mount Rainier Saturday, May 17. Hike through the forest across ridgelines to the lunch spot, which overlooks the glaciers of Mount Rainier. The cost is $30. Minimum age: 12. Meet at the NAC at 9 a.m.

Head to Canada for an actionpacked Memorial Day weekend with Class IV rapids and camping. The $205 cost includes rafting, transportation, meals, sauna facilities and most camping equipment. The trip departs the morning of Saturday, May 23 and returns the afternoon of Monday, May 25.

www.NWMSRocks.com 1.888.286.8034 8

Fort Lewis Focus

May 2009

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www.lewis-mcchordcommunities.com Trip

Date

Price

Description

Time

Details

Hunterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s education registration Pike Place Market/Ride the ducks Introduction to sea kayaking Chinook salmon fishing charter Mountain bike Capitol Forest Westport bottom fishing Sea kayak self-rescue Whitewater rafting Horseback riding Parasail Commencement Bay Armed Forces Day Volksmarch Sea kayak Lake Union Indoor rock climbing Whitewater kayak pool session Whitewater rafting Horseback riding Sea kayak Ketron Island Seattle Aquarium/Pike Place Market Bungee jumping Chinook salmon fishing charter Sea kayak Lake Union Hike Twin Falls Parasail Commencement Bay Introduction to mountain biking

Friday, May 1 Saturday, May 2 Saturday, May 2 Saturday, May 2 Sunday, May 3 Sunday, May 3 Friday, May 8 Sunday, May 10 Sunday, May 10 Thursday, May 14 Saturday, May 16 Sunday, May 17 Thursday, May 21 Friday, May 22 Saturday, May 23 Saturday, May 23 Sunday, May 24 Sunday, May 24 Monday, May 25 Monday, May 25 Saturday, May 30 Saturday, May 30 Sunday, May 31 Sunday, May 31

FREE $40 $40 $180 $25 $96 $20 $60 $70 $45 FREE $40 $20 $20 $60 $70 $40 $35 $125 $180 $40 $20 $45 $30

Learn safe handling of weapons Day trip to Seattle Learn the proper techniques Fish rain or shine Guided muddy mountain bike trip Chartered fishing trip out of Westport Gain confidence in this clinic Exciting class III rapids Two-hour guided ride See the Sound from a new view Fun for all ages Four-mile paddle with lunch Head to Warehouse Rock Gym Learn basics of the sport Exciting class III rapids Two-hour guided ride Paddle from Solo Point Seattle day trip Jump off highest U.S. bungee bridge Fish rain or shine Four-mile paddle with lunch Scenic hike See the Sound from a new view Learn mountain biking skills

Please call 9 a.m.

9 a.m.

TBA 9 a.m.

4 a.m.

5:30 p.m.

7 a.m.

9:30 a.m.

9 a.m.

8 a.m.

9 a.m.

5:30 p.m.

5:30 p.m.

7 a.m.

9:30 a.m.

9 a.m.

9 a.m.

9 a.m.

TBA 9 a.m.

9 a.m.

9 a.m.

9 a.m.

Mandatory in Wash.

12 and younger: $25

Minimum age:14 Minimum age: 7 Minimum age: 3 Armed Forces Day Minimum age: 12

Minimum age:7 Minimum age: 12 4-12: $25

Minimum age: 16 Minimum age: 12 Minimum age: 3

This trip can especially accommodate people with special needs.

Popular Family trip.

The NAC is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Please call 253-967-6263 for trip details. Pre-registration required.Trips subject to change without notice.

FortLewisMWR.com

9

Fitness & well-being

Sign up for the Triple Threat Triathlon series

Photos: Minerva Hohaia

Start training now for the 17th Annual Triple Threat Triatlon Series hosted by Sports, Fitness and Aquatics. Open to the general public, the three races are Saturdays June 20, July 18 and Aug. 22. Each event starts at 9 a.m. at North Fort Lewis’ Shoreline Park with a half-mile swim on American Lake followed by a 15-mile bike ride and a 3-mile run. Sign up quickly – participation is limited to 300 per race. Register as an individual or a relay team.

Registration forms are available at Fort Lewis Sports and Fitness Centers or at www.FortLewisMWR.com.

Get ‘down & dirty’ with 5K Mud Run, intramural sports ID card holders: $10; civilians: $20.

Participants may also register as teams.

Register by Wednesday, May 6 to avoid an additional $10 fee. Registration closes Wednesday, May 13.

Intramural sports meetings

G

Photo: Minerva Hohaia

Get downright dirty this Armed Forces Day with the Down & Dirty 5K Mud Run. Sign up now for these fun runs loaded with muddy obstacles.

The races will be held behind Soldiers Field House Saturday, May 16 and Friday, July 4 at 9 a.m. and are open to the public.

Awards and age categories Medallions will be awarded to the top male and female finishers in each age category, as well as to the top teams (men’s, women’s and coed).

Registration Active and retired military and military family members: $5; other DoD 10

Fort Lewis Focus

A unit representatives meeting for intramural softball is scheduled for May 12 at 2 p.m. at Wilson Sports & Fitness Center. A golf meeting is scheduled at Eagles Pride Golf Course May 19 at 2 p.m.

Nurses Week 5K Run/2K Walk Join Fort Lewis Sports, Fitness and Aquatics and Madigan Army Medical Center Wednesday, May 6 for the National Nurses Week event. Register by Monday, May 4.

Army vs.Air Force soccer game Celebrate Armed Forces Day with an afternoon of friendly competition on the soccer field. The Fort Lewis and McChord teams will play on Watkins Field at 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 16.

Fitness facility

Location

Phone number

Sports Adminstration Office Cowan and Memorial stadiums Jensen Family Health & Fitness Center Jensen Child care McVeigh Sports & Fitness Center Sheridan Sports & Fitness Center Soldiers Field House Keeler Sports & Fitness Center Wilson Sports & Fitness Center Keeler Pool Kimbro Pool Soldiers Field House Pool

Bldg 3236, 2nd Div & Handrich Bldg 2170, Bitar & 12th Bldg 2022, Liggett Ave & Div Bldg 2022, Liggett Ave & Div Bldg 2160, Liggett Ave Bldg 3759, Stryker Ave Bldg 3236, 2nd Div & Handrich Bldg 9993 (Old Madigan) Garfield St Bldg 11596, D St & 41st Div Keeler Sports & Fitness Center McVeigh Sports & Fitness Center Soldiers Field House

253-967-2604 253-967-2912 253-967-5975 253-967--1254 253-967-5869 253-967-7311 253-967-4771 253-967-6808 253-967-7471 253-967-6652 253-967-5026 Closed for renovations

Event registration forms are available at Fort Lewis fitness facilities and at www.FortLewisMWR.com.

May 2009

T

The deployment of a loved one is not without its hardships, even under the best of circumstances.

However, there are many things you can do to make things a little easier for you and your kids

Start with building your own support group by volunteering, taking classes or just getting more involved with friends, family or your Family Readiness Group.

Also take advantage of the many free resources available through the military.

For example, the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research has some helpful materials that can be downloaded at www.battlemind.org. The organization Military OneSource (1-800-342-9647) can also put you in touch with agencies such as Army Community Service and others that offer a host of services.

A deployment can also be a confusing time for children who do not understand why a parent must leave. They may not be good at verbalizing their feelings or concerns, so it is important for the adult in their lives to be attentive to cues such as irritability and problems controlling temper, fights, hitting/biting/kicking, unexplained aches and pains, changes in eating and sleeping habits, attention or academic problems, withdrawal or sadness.

Here’s how you can help your child • Keep children informed, and provide support and reassurance.

• Address fears or anxieties and discuss issues concerning them. Listen.

• Recognize and respond to changes in behavior, and watch for signs/symptoms of high-risk behavior.

• Maintain good communication with a child’s school.

• Reassure your child that these ar-

Specials for families of deployed Soldiers at Fort Lewis > Family Night is Monday, May 4 at the Cascade Community Center. Enjoy dinner, free games and fun activities, including board games, scrapbooking, paper doll making,Wii, playdough creation and story time. Dinner is $4.25 for adults and $3.25 for children. Dinner includes options like hot dogs, hamburgers, mac n’cheese and french fries. > Bowl Arena offers up to three free games (and shoe rental) to families of deployed Soldiers Sundays noon to 4 p.m.

the Arts and Crafts Center will transfer a favorite photo onto a pillowcase.

Sleep with it at night, or ship it in your Soldier’s next care package. > Children of a deployed Soldier (or a wounded warrior) receive 20 percent fee reduction for child care, four free SKIES instructional classes and two free CYSS sports enrollments. > Jensen Family Health and Fitness Center is now open on Saturday from 8 to 3 p.m. Child care is available.

> For information on hourly child care for children of deployed Soldiers, call Clarkmoor Hourly Care at 253-966-2490.

> Kimbro Pool now offers youth/family recreational swimming Saturday mornings from 10 a.m. to noon.

> With the Pillowcase Picture Project,

Visit FortLewisMWR.com for details.

Fitness & well-being

Staying strong during a deployment

rangements are only temporary.

• Try to maintain family routines despite changes.

• Encourage open expression of your child’s feelings through talk, play, drawings, etc.

• Be aware of your own emotional reactions around your children.

• Allow children to write or e-mail their deployed parent, and have regular video teleconferences when possible.

• Have the child keep a daily journal of his or her life to share with their deployed parent.

Of course, please get professional help if you or someone you know experiences the following: Feeling severely depressed, down, angry, tense, hostile, irritable, hopeless or resentful to the point that it interrupts daily activities, repeated crying episodes, sleep problems or appetite changes, using medications, illegal drugs or alcohol to cope, taking out frustrations on others; suicidal or homicidal thinking, intent or actions isolation or withdrawal.

Military OneSource (1-800-3429647) is also a great resource for finding appropriate counseling for you, your children or someone you know who needs help.

Information contributed by I Corps Readiness Outcomes and Wellness Service.

FortLewisMWR.com

11

Child, Youth & School Services child care ranked No. 1, free baseball game & more Family

First Swing teaches kids to golf Open to youth ages 5-15, Eagles Pride Golf Course and CYSS are offering golf clinics to introduce youth to the sport. Join a PGA-certified professional Wednesdays May 13 and June 3 from 2 to 5 p.m. A third clinic will be offered Wednesday, June 17 from 4 to 6 p.m. Clinics begin with one hour of instruction and include equipment rental and one bucket of driving range balls.

Children must be CYSS-registered.

Parent training class This month’s classes include Baby Sign (Monday, May 4), Come Scrap with Us (Wednesday, May 13) and Staying Involved During Deployments (Wednesday, May 20).

Free child care will be provided at Clarkmoor Hourly Center (253-966-2491).

Free UW baseball game Teens are invited to an exclusive tour of the University of Washington’s baseball facility and their game against the Oregon State Beavers Saturday, May 9 in Seattle. Register by Friday, May 8.

Youth fitness program Open to youth ages 13 and older, the program is now offered at Jensen Family Health and Fitness Center Monday through Friday from 3 to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

DoD child care system is No. 1 The military child care system was ranked No. 1 in a report from the National Association of Child Care

Resource and Referral Agencies. The Army is commited to continuing to provide excellent child care programs.

Osprey Club

Photo: Song Jordan

Discover Fort Lewis’ habitats and wildlife with this outdoor discovery club from the Teen Zone, SKIES Unlimited and Tahoma Audubon Society.

12

Fort Lewis Focus

Special Olympics softball Open to ages 8 to 18 years, registration for Special Olympics softball runs through June 5. The cost is $45, and the season runs from June 15 to August 22.

British soccer camp

Flag football

This summer soccer camp is open to youth ages 3-16. Register online at www. challengersports.com before June 5 and receive a free British soccer jersey.

Register for flag football through Thursday, May 28. The sport is open to youth ages 5 to 15, and the cost is $50.

Coaching opportunities are available.

CYSS Registration is located in Building 2295 at the corner of 12th St. and Bitar Ave. Call 253-967-2494 or e-mail LewisCYSRegistration@conus.army.mil for additional information.

May 2009

Army Community Service to the rescue

A

a.m. at the American Lake Community Center. The event includes complimentary lunch, windshield tour, static displays and free on-site child care.

Registration required; call 253-9673633/3550.

How do you prepare for a deployment?

ACS has tools and tips to help prepare you. Pre-deployment workshops are Thursday, May 7 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. and Tuesday, May 26 from 6 to 7 p.m. from 6 to 7 p.m. Both workshops will be held at the Family Resource Center. To register for the workshop, call ACS at 253-967-3397.

EFMP Camp Fort Lewis Camp Fort Lewis “It’s a Jungle Out There!” is Aug. 14 through 16. Registration deadline is May 15. Call 253-967-3520 for additional information.

Common Sense Parenting

After attending the New Parent Support Program’s Common Sense Parenting

of Toddlers and Preschoolers, parents can come to feel they are in charge in a positive way. The class is held Wednesdays May 13 through June 24. To find out more or to schedule, call 253-967-7409.

Basic food program Families who did not previously qualify for the DSHS Basic Food Program, should consider reapplying when their sponsor is deployed. For additional information, call 253-966-9419.

Newcomers’ Orientation Held monthly for all Soldiers and spouses new to post, a Newcomers’ Orientation will be held Tuesday, May 26 at 8:30

MILES

You’re committed to them...

We’re committed to you.

A

As a leading provider of Auto Financing to the military community, the MILES Program is committed to you before, during, and even after your vehicle purchase. We provide extra support and protections to ensure you and your family are taken care of throughout the ownership of your vehicle. ®

Visit usmiles.com for Pre-Approval & to find a MILES Certified Dealership near you Or call 1.866.466.4537 for more information MILES® is a registered Service Mark of Dealers’ Financial Services, LLC

®

Celebrate volunteers!

The annual Volunteer Recognition Luncheon and Awards Ceremony is Wednesday, May 6 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the American Lake Community Center. Lunch is free for all Fort Lewis volunteers, and awards for the Volunteer of the Year will be announced. RSVP is required. Please call 253-967-9496.

Family

Army Community Service provides the community with information, assistance and guidance regarding personal and family issues.

Pre-deployment workshops

The I Corps & Fort Lewis ACS is located in Waller Hall, Building 2140 and is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Call 253-9677166 or e-mail lewisacsweb@conus.army.mil for more information.

ACS program & how they can help you Army Family Team Building Get acquainted with military life and lingo.

Customer Service Management System Customer feedback mechanism Army Emergency Relief Financial & educational assistance program Financial Readiness Program Support services and classes Employment Readiness Program Enhance career opportunities Relocation Readiness Program Assistance with PCSing Loan Closet No-cost loan of housewares for PCSers.

Mobilization & Deployment Readiness Readiness training/assistance Army Volunteer Corps Coordinator Make a difference. Volunteer.

Family Advocacy Program Prevention/education for domestic violence, child abuse and sexual assault Exceptional Family Member Program Support/assistance to all Soldiers and Family members with special needs Military Family Life Consultants Confidential assistance with deployment/ reintegration, daily issues and more Center of Excellence Soldiers and Families stay connected with online forum, video messengers

Phone number 253-967-2382/7166 253-967-0052 253-967-9852/7166 253-967-3525/7166 253-967-3538/7166 253-967-3628/7166 253-967-3635/7166 253-967-9916/7166 253-967-2324 253-967-5940/5901

253-967-9704/9705/ 3451/3520 253-495-8425

253-967-3314

FortLewisMWR.com

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Finance & education

Storytime, game days & more with the Fort Lewis library system

Consumer Alert – Test Prep Scams

National testing programs have received complaints regarding questionable products and services. Before investing in these programs, call the Education Service Officer at 253-967-7174.

Academic testing is available at Stone Education Center. The center is a DANTES and Pearson Vue test site also offering various proctored and certification exams, including the Basic Math and Science Test, Automotive Service Excellence certification, National Registry Emergency Medical Technicians and Excelsior. Soldiers may take the ACT and the SAT, as well as the GED. A practice GED is offered to all. For more information, please call 253-967-5657.

Photo: Song Jordan

Snuggle Up Storytime Celebrate Children’s Book Week with Snuggle Up Storytime, an event for the entire family. Come to Book Patch Library Tuesday, May 12 from 7 to 7:30 p.m. Kids may wear pajamas and bring their favorite toy.

Get your game on at Grandstaff On Clover Park School District halfday Wednesdays, spend the afternoon at Grandstaff playing games with friends.

Stop by May 8, 13, 29 and June 3. The May 13 includes an activity, and June 3 features a parent discussion, reading motivation during the summer.

Also at the libraries ...

Summer reading program Registration begins June 22. Storytime and songs

Tuesday mornings at 10:30 and activites Wednesday afternoons from 1 to 2.

Family storytime Come to Book Patch every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. for family storytime. Children of all ages are invited.

Teen volunteers needed Have a creative and fun-filled summer working with children at the library. Interested teens should attend a volunteer meeting Tuesday, June 2 at 4 p.m.

New York Times’ bestsellers Titles from John Grisham, Stephenie Meyer, Maeve Binchy and more are available at Grandstaff and Crittenberger libraries.

Information contributed by Georgia Cartner and Jeremy Marshall. Grandstaff: 253-967-5889; Book Patch: 253-967-5533 (Building 2109, N. 10th & Pendleton); Crittenberger: 253-967-2824 (Building 3271, 2nd Div (Troop Area)

• Create safe pass-

Identity theft – Identity theft occurs when someone uses another person’s identifying information such as name, Social Security number or credit card for criminal purposes.

Identity theft can ruin credit, create missed job opportunities or make getting a loan difficult.

Here are seven steps to help protect your identity: • Shred your mail and unneeded personal documents.

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Stone Army Education Center opportunities

Fort Lewis Focus

words (at least seven characters with numbers, symbols and upper- and lower-case letters).

• Check your credit.

• Place a credit freeze.

• Consider credit monitoring.

• Protect your child’s information.

• Limit the amount of personal information available on the Internet.

Information contribued by Ryki Carlson. References: ftc.gov and netadvisor.com.

The Technical and Academic Resource Center is a high-tech,

multi-media and computer resource facility offering computer access and more. Hours of operation are Monday through Thursday 8:15 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Friday 8:15 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Closed on all federal holidays. For more information and hours, please call 253-967-2171.

Giant Campus, a nationwide leader

in technology training, offers free onsite and at home innovative technology courses. For more information please logon to http://fortlewis.giantcampus.com or call 1-800-386-4223.

ROTC Green-to-Gold briefing is Thursday, May 21 at 1:30 p.m.

Troops to Teachers briefing is Wednesday, May 13 at 1 p.m. Both are at Stone Education Center, Building 6242 on Colorado Ave. For more information, call 253-967-7174.

An onsite bookstore operates with extended hours during the first week of each term. As the only DFMWR bookstore Army-wide, all funds generated are returned to the community.

For hours, call 253-964-8185.

The Stone Education Center Battle Bean offers specialty drinks and food items.Try this month’s specialty drink,“Malibu Getaway Iced Latte.”

May 2009

OneStop Kiosks help improve Fort Lewis services

By Curtis F. Atkinson

We want to hear from YOU!

Feedback

This month, here’s what you had to say about Fort Lewis health and recreation facilities such as gymnasiums and swimming pools, outdoor recreation, Memorial Stadium, and many more.

T

The Interactive Customer Evaluation system is a major component of our Customer Management Services program at Fort Lewis. It provides direct feedback from customers and promotes interaction and response from service providers.

In the last 30 days, 584 comments were submitted by members of the Fort Lewis community – a 36 percent increase from the previous month.

The increase in feedback can be attributed to the 10 Army OneStop Kiosks located around the post that make it easier to submit a comment at the point of service. Secondly, there is greater awareness of the program and how it provides the information that is necessary for the various agencies at Fort Lewis to make improvements.

If you used one of the services at Fort Lewis and were pleased with that serviceand the way you were treated, put in an ICE comment and let the management know. If you want to recognize and individual, please take the time to get a complete name so that person can be recognized.

ICE is accessible through the new kiosks. Anyone can click on the ICE logo to be forwarded to the Fort Lewis ICE web site.You can also visit ICE online at https://ice.disa. mil. The ICE system is monitored daily to ensure that customers who request a response are contacted within three working days. Be sure to answer all of the questions. The more feedback you provide, the better.

Photo: Song Jordan

> Jensen Family Health & Fitness Center: This is a great facility with a really good staff. > McVeigh Sports & Fitness Center: I have been extremely pleased with Susan Jackson. She continues to give me the confidence to move forward.

She’s the best trainer on Fort Lewis.

Susan is an excellent trainer! She kept us motivated and knew what each of us needed to achieve our specific goals. > Wilson Sports & Fitness Center: Outstanding facility. Best I’ve seen in 20 years of service. > Northwest Adventure Center: I recently had the opportunity to take a ski trip to the Summit at Sno-

Curtis Atkinson is a Customer Service Officer for the Customer Management System/Interactive Customer Evaluation at Fort Lewis. He may be reached at curtis.f.atkinson@us.army.mil.

qualmie. It was such a pleasant experience. I plan on using this opportunity next winter for trips all winter for my boys and me.

My friend and I went on one of the Bella Donna trips (snowshoeing) and loved it so much. The trip was run well, and the guide did an excellent job ... I’d definitely do another trip with this guide!

Fort Lewis SCUBA has the very best outstanding service and attitude.

Absolutely the best dive shop around. > Bowl Arena: Great facility. We are spending a lot of time there. Bowling has become one of our favorite things to do based on the outstanding experience we have had at this facility.

Voice of the Customer What you had to say about last month’s Kids’ Fest celebration. > Thanks! Good event. My kids like it a lot. > My kids had a great time.Thanks!! > I come every year :-) > My son loves it. > Great event for kids. > I love the family-based activities provided.

FortLewisMWR.com

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Debit Rewards Earn Earn 55 cents cents for for every every signature signature base base transaction transaction of of $25 $25 or or greater. greater.

It pays to use your debit card!

It pays to use your debit card!

Call or visit our website for details.

Call or visit our website for details. www.yourcreditunion.org www.yourcreditunion.org

253.964.3113 253.964.3113 Two branches on Fort Lewis Two branches to serve you on Fort Lewis to serve you Fort Lewis Focus

We do business in accordance with the Federal Fair Housing Law and the Equal Credit Opportunity Act.

We do business in accordance with the Federal Fair Housing Law and the Equal Credit Opportunity Act.

May 2009