FOCUS JOINT BASE LEWIS-McCHORD
September 2020
MORALE, WELFARE & RECREATION GUIDE
Celebrate
MONTH OF THE MILITARY CHILD Pages 7–11
Meet the newest youth of the year Pages 12–15 Keep kids active with local hikes Pages 20–22 Greatest losers are healthiest winners Pages 26–29
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Director, Family & MWR Venicia Morse Marketing director Kimberly Perrenot Editor/layout & design Patti Jeffrey Staff writers Lizzie Hoscheit, Patti Jeffrey Staff illustrator Tiana Crispino Contributors Cindy Arnold, Philisa Campbell, Alex Demitras, Lizzie Hoscheit, Carly Mueller, Spc. Rachael San Pietro Contributing photographers Emiliano Hernandez, Lizzie Hoscheit, JBLM Public
Affairs, Patti Jeffrey, Aisha Vandessppooll For commercial sponsorship or advertising inquiries, off-base businesses, call 253-966-2256. The JBLM “FOCUS” Newcomers Guide is an unofficial information source. Activities described herein, which are open to authorized patrons and, where applicable, guests, are subject to change; contact the activity for confirmation. Opinions are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent Family & MWR, Joint Base Lewis-McChord or any U.S. government entity. The use of a commercial sponsor logo or mention of a commercial sponsor or other organization does not constitute U.S. government endorsement.
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FOCUS IN THIS ISSUE
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Joint Base Lewis-McChord FOCUS September 2020
FEATURES
4 Adapting youth sports to changing times CYS youth sports now offers sports clinics, which have been popular with parents and youth.
12 Meet the newest youth of the year Meet Sarah Wilton, who won the Washington State Military Youth of the Year title amid the COVID-19 quarantine.
20 Keep kids active with local hikes Now that schoolwork takes a big chunk out of the day, keep your kids active and healthy with family hikes.
26 Greatest losers are healthiest winners Hear the stories of Quaratine’s Greatest Loser virtual challenge contestants and how they earned prizes while winning back their health.
CONTENTS
Just for youth
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September is Month of the Military Child! Look at new Hillside Youth Center activities planned just for you.
Fun activities
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Get in on library fun and Arts & Crafts Center contest.
Sports
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Join a new fitness contest; enter Commander’s Cup 5K run.
Recreation
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Take advantage of golf discounts; buy outdoor gear at a discount.
Dining out
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Tasty meals can also be healthy; come and get freshly prepared to-go meals at MWR eateries.
38 Customer service at its best Meet Katherine Hargrave, who loves helping customers at Northwest Adventure Center.
Magazine photos may not be representative of current COVID-19 guidelines. At time of printing, masks are required at all MWR facilities.
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Joint Base Lewis-McChord FOCUS September 2020
Aisha Vandessppooll
FEATURE
Adapting youth sports to changing times By Patti Jeffrey long with other CYS programming, CYS youth sports staffers have been figuring out ways to adapt and thrive during the various COVID-19 pandemic phases. Since team sports aren’t a possibility, the youth sports team has recently offered sports clinics in hiking, baseball, football, soccer and golf. The clinics have been a hit with parents, staff, volunteer coaches and especially children. “It’s fun and we love being back with the kids,” says Cynthia Williams-Patnoe, youth sports director. “We want to provide active sports opportunities for children who might otherwise have been sitting at home playing video games.” Cynthia understands that it has been really tough on JBLM families who have faced closed parks and playgrounds during the quarantine phase. She says, “It’s so hard, and
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you keep doing your best with what you have available. That’s where we have been able to help.” The sports clinics have provided families the opportunity of keeping their children involved with sports while keeping them safe. Each small group of children is accompanied by a staff member in rotating skills drills with cleaning between station rotations (group size is consistent with current guidelines). Maintaining physical distance is constantly monitored, and masks are required for coaches and parents. “We would love to have hundreds of children attending our sports clinics, but it’s not feasible or possible right now,” Cynthia says. “These clinics have been popular — so popular, in fact, that we’ve had waiting lists. For instance, we had only planned our football Continued on next page.
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clinic for the afternoon, but we had enough kids on the waiting list to open up another football clinic in the morning. “Staff, parents and especially the kids are happy running, jumping and playing. … I feel so grateful we’re able to get this opportunity to help out our military families,” says Cynthia. “I’m also grateful for our amazing volunteer coaches: Alexander, Thomas, Kinard, Eric and Anthony,” says Cynthia. “They truly have volunteer hearts in them. They’re so well-trained, and they’re here to give their all to military families.” What’s next for youth sports? It depends on school schedules and COVID-19 restric-
tions, according to Cynthia. “We want to do the safest thing for children,” she says. “We’re going to be looking at current guidelines in our decisions about fall and winter sports.” What she does know, and wants to let families know, is that September is the perfect time to get outside and keep children’s gross motor skills developing and healthy. “Families can do simple things like going on a hike or bike ride, and exploring the great Pacific Northwest,” Cynthia says. (See pages 20–22 for hiking tips.) Questions about youth sports clinics? Call 253-967-2405. Youth Sports is located at 6398 Garica Blvd. at Lewis Main.
CYS Fall Sports This schedule includes sports camps and skills clinics. All CYSprescribed precautions for sanitation procedures and distance monitoring will be conducted. The First Tee Golf (ages 7–18), 4–5:30 p.m. Enroll through Monday, Sept. 14. Cost: $40. • Sept. 15–Oct. 6 at Eagle’s Pride Golf Course and Sept. 17–Oct. 8 at Whispering Firs Golf Course. • One PGA instructor from The First Tee of South Puget Sound and one CYS staffer. Golf clubs provided with early evening classes. Sports Skills Clinics (ages 5–15), Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 5–6 p.m. Enrollment is open until the day before the clinic. Cost: $35. • Soccer: Two weeks (Sept. 14–24). • Basketball: Two weeks (Sept. 28– Oct. 9). Enroll at JBLMcysRegistration.com or call Youth Sports at 253-967-2405. The schedule is subject to change.
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Joint Base Lewis-McChord FOCUS September 2020
JBLM Public Affairs
Hillside celebrates military youth Hillside Middle School/Teen Fun
Day of Tournaments Saturday, Sept. 12 • 1–6 p.m.
Super Smash Bros. • Mario Kart • Madden NFL 20 • Minecraft: Builders & Biomes • Ping-Pong • Hula Hoops • Speed Bingo
Fix-It & Fun Saturday, Sept. 26 • 1–6 p.m.
Edible Projects • Karaoke Battles • Fun with Slime
For more information about Hillside Youth Center and how to join, visit JBLMmwr.com/programs/mst.
Events are subject to change. Check JBLMmwr.com for updates.
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Overcoming challenges Adapting today for a stronger tomorrow
Parent Central Services is at 2295 S. 12th St., Lewis Main; call 253-966-2977 for an appointment. Family Child Care is at 2013B N. 3rd St. (at Pendleton Avenue), Lewis Main; 253-967-3039. Hillside Youth Center/Teen Zone is at 6397 Garcia Blvd., Lewis Main; 253-967-4441. Youth Sports is at 6398 Garcia Blvd., Lewis Main; 253-967-2405. Visit JBLMcys.com for more information.
JBLMcys
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Constant change can build resiliency, respect for others By Cindy Arnold hen reflecting on the life of a military child, the word “change” is often one of the first things that comes to my mind. My father was in the Air Force for 20 years, and I always like to say that my mother was, too — she supported him and two children during all the moves and change that occurred. This year’s Month of the Military Child theme — “adapting today for a stronger tomorrow” — is exactly what every military Family learns, that military kids: • Learn that things change and that’s OK. • Find that moving can be fun and you learn a lot each time. • Can respect diversity and difference. • Discover that constant change builds resiliency, new friends, new schools, new — everything! This resiliency creates tools for building your new life each time, and all of these challenges help you gain insight into who you are. As you become an adult, you’ll find these skills that you cultivated as a child are invaluable. I know that I have.
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Joint Base Lewis-McChord FOCUS September 2020
Enter the “Young Lives, Big Stories� contest to tell your story about what it means to be a military kid at Army MWR.com/YLBS during Month of the Military Child.
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In March, we asked the kids at Cascade SAC “What do you like about being a military child?” Here’s what they said: • “That my mom cares about people and her community.” Faith, 9 • “That I’m really special and it lets you be a part of a lot of things.” Ahlaiya, 8 • “That you get to travel a lot and meet new people.” Lailah, 8 • “Having closer friends and meeting new people.” Rylan, 10 • “Having friends and being more secure on base.” Brandon, 10 • “I don’t have to stay at day care long.” Anthony, 8 • “I see my parents a lot and it makes me happy.” Elijah, 7 • “Drinking hot cocoa at the Christmas parties.” Joshua, 10 • “That my dad works really hard and comes home happy.” Derick, 9 • “That you help people when they fall and be kind.” Jack, 6 • “I’m good at math.” Devin, 5 • “That my dad flies a C-17 and wears a cool suit.” Pilot, 7
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FEATURE
Meet the newest youth of the year By Lizzie Hoscheit BLM is home to yet another Boys & Girls Clubs of America Washington State Military Youth of the Year winner, Sarah Wilton. This will be four wins in a row for Hillside Youth Center teens. It also marks the sixth win in the last seven years for Hillside Youth Center, although this time there were new challenges amid the COVID-19 outbreak — the entire competition was done virtually. Sarah joined Hillside Youth Center in 2016 at the beginning of 7th grade. Over the past several years, she has been coming to the center most days after school to participate in clubs, bond with other students and relax. Because of her large amounts of involvement, staff members encouraged her to compete in the MYOY competition. When she decided to commit to the competition, Sarah was a sophomore at the time. She states, “I was nervous when I received the news that I would be competing against a senior, but the staff continued to encourage and support me. After completing the applica-
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tion and essays required, I began working on my speech. I wrote about my experience at Hillside Youth Center, growing up in a military community, and my platform of mental and sexual health education in schools.” Sarah was forced to do the majority of her practicing and preparation at home during the COVID-19 restrictions, but she was able to take that challenge and integrate it into her speech by relating how isolation amid the outbreak has been affecting people’s mental health. Sarah says she feels passionate about the topic she chose and, while it’s a heavy topic, it’s one that people her age should take on. She states, “Growing up, my (very limited) experiences with sex education left me and other students with little information, and often more questions and confusion than we had to begin with. Similarly, there were little to no resources available for students who may have been struggling with their mental health.” Seeing the impacts that the lack of informa-
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Continued on page 15.
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“Any contribution, no matter how big or small, can spark a change. Small actions can make a big difference in someone’s life, and as long as you’re putting forth effort, you’re creating change.” tion caused is what ignited the passion within Sarah to take on such a powerful topic. Military children face unique challenges, from moving around every couple of years, to dealing with parents being deployed or in the field for long periods of time, all of which can have an impact on their mental health. Pairing those challenges with a lack of information and education on both mental and sexual health, Sarah spotted an issue that needed to be addressed. “My goal in discussing mental and sexual health is to help teens access the resources that they need, and teach them to prioritize their mental and sexual health,” she states. “If more people my age are having conversations about sexual and mental health, stigma around these topics will lessen, and people will be more aware of important resources and information.” As a peer educator, Sarah believes students are more comfortable learning from their peers — it creates an environment in which students are able to make the most out of the lesson
because they can focus on what they’re being taught rather than on how uncomfortable they are. Throughout the competition, Sarah has spread awareness by reaching out to many of her peers and has been able to make a difference. Here’s her advice for anyone who wants to make a change, but may be scared to start: “Any contribution, no matter how big or small, can spark a change. Small actions can make a big difference in someone’s life, and as long as you’re putting forth effort, you’re creating change.” While she was nervous in the beginning, Sarah was able to see how much of a change one person can make. Although she couldn’t actually be at the youth center, the support of staff members helped ease her nerves. Sarah made it effortlessly through the competition and says, “I waited anxiously to hear the news about whether or not I had won the competition. When I heard that I had won, it felt like all my hard work had paid off.”
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The mural in the gaming nook at Grandstaff Library takes us through a video game evolution from Street Fighter to Fortnite. We see iconic characters, such as Pikachu in monochrome, which took 18 months of volunteer time to complete. The mural was designed by Meigan Girard, a junior at St. Martins University. She’s an English major and enjoys art as a hobby.
16 Joint Base Lewis-McChord FOCUS September 2020 Lizzie Hoscheit
Welcome to JBLM libraries McChord Library is at 851 Lincoln Blvd. at McChord Field; 253-982-3454. Grandstaff Library is at 2109 N. 10th (on Pendleton Avenue) at Lewis Main; 253-967-5889. Book Patch Library is located inside Grandstaff; 253-967-5533. All activities are free with no need to register unless otherwise noted.
JBLMlibrary
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Take library backpacks to Washington State Parks Find adventures and new experiences in Washington State Parks with the latest addition to our libraries: The Check Out Washington backpack, which includes binoculars, field guides, interpretive materials and a special Discover Pass for parking at and exploring Washington State Parks. Backpacks are available for a checkout period of seven days. Discover Passes are accepted on state lands, so to take advantage of this offer — you’ll want to plan your next hike at a state park or on lands managed by the Washington Department of Natural Resources. You can find out which pass is required for your next hike by searching WTA’s Hiking Guide. Use our library reference sections to research your next hike and check out books about hiking and on-trail adventures! Before you head out, add your own hiking essentials, including food and water for the day, a map of the area and extra clothes, particularly when temperatures fluctuate throughout the day. (See pages 20–22 for more hiking tips and places to explore.) Get ready to explore the beautiful PNW and take advantage of this great opportunity! In partnership with Check Out Washington, we’re able to offer this pilot program through March 2021, funded in part by the Washington State Parks Foundation.
Check out crafts from Book Patch “Crafts to Go” is a new service offered by Book Patch Library! These free craft bags keep young minds and fingers busy. Bags are labeled by age level (pre-K to tweens) and are available for pickup now!
Follow virtual escape room challenge Each Monday at 10 a.m. during September, McChord Library is posting a virtual escape room challenge at fb.com/JBLMlibrary. Open to everyone, the challenges lead you through themed stories with virtual interactions and puzzles to solve, hosted by libraries throughout the country: • Sept. 7 features Escape from Wonderland. • Sept. 14 challenges you to Escape to Narnia. • Sept. 21 is the Jumanji challenge. • Sept. 28 features the Sherlock Escape Room. Follow these events from your own Facebook account, or create an account for free and “like” the JBLM library Facebook page to follow the contests.
Banned Books Week celebration The American Library Association’s Banned Books Week (Sept. 27–Oct. 3) celebrates the freedom to read. It spotlights current and historical attempts to censor books in libraries and schools. The entire book community — librarians, booksellers, publishers, journalists, teachers and readers of all types — share support of the freedom to seek and express ideas, even those some consider unorthodox or unpopular. Did you know that “Charlotte’s Web,” the Harry Potter and Captain Underpants books series and even Dr. Seuss’ “Hop on Pop” have hit the banned books list at certain times? Visit Book Patch and Grandstaff libraries to check out our banned books display!
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20 Joint Base Lewis-McChord FOCUS September 2020 Emiliano Hernandez
FEATURE
Keep kids active with local hikes Discover scenic park trails with field trips
By Patti Jeffrey ou’ve been good at keeping the kids busy all summer with active play. Now that schoolwork takes a big chunk out of the day, take a look at another way to keep kids active and healthy during September!
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Take a day or early evening hike The list for easy kid-friendly day hikes is endless for this region, but some noteworthy hikes are just outside JBLM. For instance, the Nisqually Wildlife Refuge has an amazing boardwalk and level nature paths for people of any ability to explore the tidal basin. Priest Point State Park offers forested trails that lead to beach-combing fun in the South Puget Sound. Point Defiance Park in North Tacoma is sprinkled with trails, beachfront walks and scenic vistas overlooking Puget Sound. Other nearby hikes include Millersylvania State Park’s Deep Lake, Capitol State Forest’s Porter Falls and Tolmie State Park, a saltwater shoreline park. If you want to venture further out, find easy mountain forest trails around the region at wta.org/go-outside/kids while the weather’s still warm. Continued on next page.
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Also locate hikes by region at parks.state. wa.us. The regional maps show all the parks in that region, and clicking on a specific park gives you all the details. Need a backpack? See page 19 for Check Out Washington backpacks from JBLM Libraries. Also take a look at daypack and child-carry backpack rentals from Adventures Unlimited and Northwest Adventure Center. Rental lists are at JBLModr.com.
others to enjoy. The rule is simple: Leave alone what you find and pick up what you bring. For instance, don’t pick up and take any natural feature you find along the trail — you might disturb rocks or brush where creatures live. Never leave any trash on the trail — it may lure wild animals to go toward the trail and increase the risks for those coming behind you.
Get your passes for free admission
September weather can be variable — sunshine in the morning and rain in the evening. Prepare not only for the weather, but for rain and cold — just in case a quick weather shift appears and you need to put on rain gear and extra clothes. If you choose to hike near the mountains or at the passes, always dress in layers on a hike and bring extra food and water, sun protection, a map and compass (or GPS receiver), flashlight, multiuse tool and duct tape for quick repairs to a shoe, torn backpack or torn clothing. Include a waterproof tarp for emergency shelter in a downpour. Bring a first aid kit wherever you hike — scrapes, cuts, bites and rashes are common for adventurous kids outdoors. Establish rules for your children when you’re hiking so no one gets lost. Also remember to keep your trash until you find a good place to throw it away, let other hikers pass on the trail and don’t take anything from the wilderness. Most of all, have fun and enjoy each other’s discoveries on your day hikes!
The library backpacks contain a specialuse Discover Pass for exploring state lands. You also can get a one-day Discover Pass for $11.50 or go for a free State Park day Sunday, Sept. 13 and Saturday, Sept. 26 (see discover pass.wa.gov for passes and details). If you’re an active duty military or Reserve family, get your America the Beautiful free pass to national and federal parks, such as Mount Rainier. It can be obtained in person at federal recreation sites that charge entrance or standard amenity fees. See a complete list of sites you can visit at store.usgs.gov/pass/access.html.
Learn trail etiquette and safety While you’re on your family hikes, take the time to learn a bit more about the wonders of Mother Nature and make it not only fun, but educational. Also teach your kiddos that the best way to preserve our natural parks is to know how we can leave the parks a beautiful place for
Keep everyone safe!
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JBLM kids need you!
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Orientation: Tuesday, Sept. 29 2013B N. 3rd St., Room 125 Lewis Main
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APPLY TODAY! Questions? Call 253-967-3039. JBLMmwr.com 23
Contest submissions due – Sept 8 Winner announced – Sept 15 24 Joint Base Lewis-McChord FOCUS September 2020
Get creative with Arts & Crafts Enter sidewalk chalk mural contest
Order custom projects online
Do you like to draw or paint? JBLM’s Arts & Crafts Center is hosting a contest to design a mural that represents Arts & Crafts, JBLM and Western Washington. Contest entrants who are affiliated with JBLM can be in teams, families or individuals; there’s no entry fee! Here’s how to enter the contest: • Create a sidewalk chalk drawing* that features JBLM, the Pacific Northwest and the Arts & Crafts Center. Use washable chalks! • Take a photo of your mural and email it to contests@JBLMmwr.com with “JBLM Sidewalk Chalk Mural” as the subject line. • Murals will be judged by Arts & Crafts Center team members. They’ll be looking for originality, creativity and a clear representation of the theme. • The winning contestant or team has the option to paint their mural in person at Arts & Crafts Center with free professional instruction. All supplies will be provided. • The finished mural will be on display outside the building for the public to view. *Contestants can provide a drawing, graphic or design rather than chalk art to be judged.
Did you know you can order online with Arts & Crafts? Take a look at the virtual catalog at JBLM.armymwr.com/programs/arts-crafts. Online orders are submitted through email. Arts & Crafts Center staff will review your order and call the phone number you provide to discuss any additional details, accept payment and confirm your order. Replies are typically within one to two business days. Order production won’t start until all details are finalized and payment is received. This includes delivery of any personal items being framed, such as coins, certificates, photos or pins. Check out the online catalog today and call us at 253-982-6719 for our email address; we’ll also help you with your order.
For more information Arts & Crafts is located at 1121 Barnes Blvd. at McChord Field. For more information, call 253-982-6719. The center is open weekdays and the first and third Saturdays of the month 10 a.m.– 5 p.m. for orders (in-person visits may be limited due to ongoing COVID-19 restrictions; for updates, visit JBLMmwr.com).
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FEATURE
Greatest losers are healthiest winners M
WR Sports, Fitness & Aquatics and Warrior Zone hosted a virtual challenge — Quarantine’s Greatest Loser — at fb.com/ JBLMmwr and JBLMmwr. com April 15–July 14. This fun weight-loss competition challenged our community to make the best of quarantine by adapting a healthier lifestyle. The scoring was based on highest body-weight loss, and prizes included a Peloton stationary bike and one-year membership for first place, Apple Watch Series 5 for second place and a Fitbit Versa 2 smartwatch for third place. We had so many success stories! Here are a few from our winners and our spokesperson, Alex Demitras.
Carly Mueller wins first place After Carly was informed that she won first place for the Quarantine’s Greatest Loser contest, she was elated. She writes,”I’m so grateful for everyone at MWR for putting on the Quarantine’s Greatest Loser Competition. In March, I was furloughed from my job, and my son’s school switched to virtual education due to COVID-19. “I took a chance and decided to sign up for the Quarantine’s Greatest Loser Competition. It was a great time for me to focus on myself and my health while the world around me seemed to slow to a halt. “I’ve made several sustainable changes to my diet and lifestyle throughout and beyond the duration of this competition, and it has had a profoundly positive impact on me and my family’s lives! “We make healthy meals together and take family walks together every day. My kids even follow along while I do yoga in the mornings and the Facebook “Workout of the Day” in the afternoons. The workout each day, along with other MWR activities, such as the Virtual Trivia Nights, gave me something to actually look forward to every single day during quarantine — at a time that could easily have been a negative time of uncertainty, anxiety and dread. It turned into one of the greatest years of my life! “I’m eternally grateful to Alex and everybody at MWR for the
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Continued on page 28.
Right: Carly Mueller starts her fitness routine after she entered Quarantine’s Greatest Loser contest through MWR. Below: Alex Demitras presents Carly with her first-place prize — a Peloton stationary bike with a one-year membership.
JBLMmwr.com 27 Courtesy photos
amazing programs and opportunities you have provided to JBLM community families to make the best of these uncertain times. I simply cannot thank you enough!” Alex Demitras, contest spokesperson, wrote to Carly, expressing his pride in announcing her first-place win. He wrote, “We couldn’t be happier to see such an awesome prize go to someone who has worked so hard toward healthier living. You’re the prime example of what all of us strive to be!”
balancing it all!” Alex’s sentiments reflect much of what all the contestants felt — an achievement all its own that reverberates into everyday life. Congratulations to all who took part in this challenge — keep on challenging yourselves to stay on the healthy course for life!
Philisa Campbell wins second place After Philisa Campbell was informed that she won second place, she wrote, “My weight-loss journey began nine months ago (November 2019). I was 293 pounds. “Though I began to lose weight prior to the challenge, it helped me to find the motivation to surpass my plateau. Now my mindset is renewed toward achieving my endeavors. “Thank you, JBLM MWR, for contributing to my journey toward a better life.” Alex wrote to Philisa, “We’re so happy to see this awesome prize for both life and fitness go to someone who has been so dedicated to achieving their goals.”
Lester Mungro wins third place Lester Mungro achieved third place among so many other contestants competing for prizes. Alex wrote his congratulations, stating, “I personally want to reach out to you — your story is similar to when I had my first child. I was 241 pounds, and man, was I feeling it! “Over time I was able to work down to 203 pounds and it changed my life. My kid got lighter, my spouse was happier and over all, life was good. “I know the challenges you had to overcome as healthy living takes work and dedication. A testament to your character and will power. Great job! “You’ve gone above and beyond to achieve your goals of healthier living. Kudos to you for
Courtesy photos
Above: Philisa Campbell before she began the Quarantine’s Greatest Loser challenge. Right: Philisa with her husband after her second-place win.
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30 Joint Base Lewis-McChord FOCUS September 2020 JBLM Public Affairs
Fitness challenges keep us motivated Take part in STEPtember challenge We all want to keep the virtual fitness challenges going through fall and winter, even if we need to work out in our own homes or neighborhoods. To maintain your motivation, JBLM Sports, Fitness & Aquatics program is inviting everyone to participate in their virtual STEPtember challenge! Participants will set a goal of taking 200,000 steps or more by the end of September. You’ll share your progress throughout the month at our event at fb.com/JBLMmwr and on your own social media page when you use the hashtag #jblmsteptember. The key to sharing your progress is to motivate and encourage each other on social
media in this virtual challenge. The first 75 to complete the challenge will receive a CamelBak water bottle! Look for a new challenge each month, such as the upcoming HIKEtober, where you’ll pick three or more hikes to complete and share your progress and photos!
Enter 5K Championship Compete in the virtual Commander’s Cup 5K Championship Friday, Oct. 2. Register at JBLMmwrRegistration.com. Age brackets are 18–19, 20–29, 30–39, 40–49 and 50–older with male and female slots. Open only to active duty Service members at JBLM. Questions? Call 253-967-6420 or visit JBLModr.com.
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Golf is still going strong E
ven though the summer season is waning, the weather’s still great for golfing at Eagle’s Pride and Whispering Firs golf courses! Check out these savings: • Midday Golf Special — Pay only $18 for your greens fee Mondays–Wednesdays, 1– 2:50 p.m. at either golf course. • Hole in Fun — Enter the contest on the same day you golf! For $1, you can win the prize fund (a gift certificate equal to the amount in the fund) if you make a hole in one on any par 3 at Whispering Firs and Eagle’s Pride. • Save up to 15% at the pro shops at our Summer Clearance Sale Sept. 25–30 on in-stock regularly priced items (excludes 2020 PING clubs). Specials cannot be combined with other specials, used for holidays, tournaments or outings or used with the annual card.
Enjoy Wine, Nine & Dine event Sign up for a fun evening of wine sampling, nine-hole golf and dinner at Eagle’s Pride Golf Course Thursday, Sept. 10. Pay $90 per pair for your green fees, cart, dinner and wine sampling (for ages 21 and older). Advance registration is required: call
the pro shop at 253-967-6522.
Play Club Championship Enter the Club Championship that takes place Sept. 19–20 at Whispering Firs Golf Course. The cost is $75. Get your entry form at the pro shop and return it by Thursday, Sept. 17. For more details, call 253-982-2124.
Enter CG golf scramble Compete in the Friday, Sept. 25 scramble at Eagle’s Pride Golf Course. Open to DOD ID
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JBLM Public Affairs
card holders, enter as a fourperson team or be placed on a team. The shotgun start is at noon. The cost is $40 per person and includes your green fee and cart rental. Call the pro shop at 253-967-6522 to enter by Thursday, Sept. 24. Look for the next golf scramble coming up Friday, Oct. 16.
Eagle’s Pride is off I-5 Exit 116. Call the pro shop at 253-967-6522.
EaglesPrideGolf
Whispering Firs is at McChord Field, 895 Lincoln Blvd. Call the pro shop at 253-982-2124.
WhisperingFirsGolf
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Visit adventure store for more I
f you want to explore what we offer in the Pacific Northwest for outdoor recreation, you won’t want to miss Outdoor Recreation’s sale Sept. 4–12 at Northwest Adventure Center (except closed business days). Bring your friends and family to our storewide sale of up to 20% off regularly priced equipment and clothing. Also take a look at displays of rental equipment — we offer a huge variety of outdoor adventure equipment to try out. NAC is at 8050 NCO Beach Rd. at Lewis North. Call 253-967-7744 for more information. JBLModr
36 Joint Base Lewis-McChord FOCUS September 2020 Patti Jeffrey
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FEATURE
Customer service at its best By Patti Jeffrey hen you walk into Northwest Adventure Center, you’ll see the facility is busy helping patrons with all of the late-summer outdoor recreation opportunities available to the JBLM community – water sports, RV camping, backpacking and hiking, fishing and other outdoor adventures. That’s where you’ll find recreation assistant Katherine Hargrave — at the retail store front counter, helping NAC customers with travel camp and cabin reservations, fishing and hunting licenses, fly fishing clinic sign-ups, equipment rental reservations, licensed firearms transfers, vehicle resale lot information, store retail sales and much more. Katherine’s favorite part of her job is fulfilling patrons’ needs. She says, “I set out to help customers get what they need. If we don’t have something available, I know where to refer them. For example, if a Service member wants to make a reservation to stay in the travel camp but it’s full, I’ll refer them to either Holiday Park at McChord Field or the National Guard’s travel camp. I like knowing how to connect people to alternate resources to get them what they need.” The biggest challenge during the summer is
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handling the constant flow of customers coming in to order, reserve a rental or buy something. With two people running the counter, Katherine stays busy all day. However, she still manages to take the extra precautions needed during the pandemic, such as cleaning every hour and ensuring everyone is maintaining physical distancing. Although Katherine has worked at NAC for just two years, she looks forward to seeing and greeting all the repeat customers she has begun to know, including those who stay in the RV Park, campground and cabins. Katherine has lived in the Pacific Northwest since 2005 and likes to hike, kayak, paddleboard and spend time outdoors. She says, “When you have the lake right out front and the mountain in the backdrop of your yard, take the opportunity to enjoy it!” NAC is located at 8050 NCO Beach Rd. at Lewis North. Take a look at what NAC and the ODR program offer at JBLModr.com. Questions? Call 253-967-7744. Please note that NAC requires all staff and customers to wear face masks, keep a physical distance and maintain a 25% occupancy rate in accordance with current JBLM COVID-19 guidelines.
“I set out to help customers get what they need. If we don’t have something available, I know where to refer them.”
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Tasty meals can also be healthy
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ho says healthy dining can’t be tasty or satisfying? Stay heart-healthy with us at MWR eateries around JBLM!
Get started with salads Tasty salads are always in demand, and MWR has a variety from which to choose for just about any appetite. On the go? If you’re at Lewis North, drop by Warrior Zone Café and order out a chef salad, chopped chicken Cobb, chicken spinach salad or side salad (the facility is open to ages 18
and older only). For a Mexican flair minus added calories at Whispering Firs Golf course’s Habañero Mexican Grill, try a yummy Habañero salad with or without your choice of shredded pork, beef or marinated chicken. It comes topped with cheese and optional salsa and sour cream. Strike Zone Café at Bowl Arena Lanes at Lewis Main serves up a garden salad (with or without grilled chicken), taco salad and a tasty side salad. Eagle’s Pride Brewhouse, open to the public
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Left to right: Warrior Zone’s Chicken spinach salad with Parmesan cheese, almond slices, diced tomatoes; chef salad with turkey, ham, cheddar, romaine, tomato, red onion, cucumber and hardboiled egg; chicken Cobb salad with bacon, romaine, tomato, red onion, Gorgonzola and hard-boiled egg. Drinks are sugar-free: Iced tea, raspberry lemonade and lemonade. Orders are take-out only at time of publication.
Patti Jeffrey
at I-5 Exit 116, offers a fabulous Cobb salad, among other choices.
Go leaner with wraps & quesadillas If you want to feel satisfied but not full, our eateries offer healthy, non-fried options for lighter meals: • From the lighter-sized portion of the menu, Habañero offers your choice of smaller burritos, fajita burritos and quesadillas with or without meat. • Warrior Zone offers Thai chicken, turkey
Caesar, turkey bacon ranch and chicken chipotle wraps, plus quesadillas with chicken and cheese options. • Bowl Arena Lanes offers a chicken-bacon ranch wrap special with greens and fresh veggies on the side instead of fries (on request). For menus, prices and locations at all our open eateries, visit JBLMmwr.com. As you visit our facilities, please be mindful of wearing masks, physical distancing guidelines and limited capacities. Several of our eateries offer take-out only at this time.
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700 Barnes Blvd. McChord Field 253-982-5581
September specials: Southern comfort meals
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Come & get it! McChord Club serves to-go meals Need a quick, tasty meal for yourself or your family? Pick up the phone and order freshly prepared meals to-go, then pick them up curbside at McChord Club! Call 253-982-5581 and have your credit card handy. Open 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Wednesdays–Fridays, the Club offers a fun menu in September. Wings platters: Choose from: Buffalo, BBQ, sweet Asian, spicy Korean, Parmesan and garlic. Platters come with ranch dip, celery and carrots. • 12 wings; up to two flavor choices: $12. • 24 wings; up to four flavor choices: $18. • 50 wings; up to four flavor choices: $39.50. Pacific Rim combo plate: Sweet Asian wings, spicy Korean wings, vegetable egg rolls and veggie-pork pot stickers. Served with celery, ranch and sweet chili sauce: $15. Sides: Chicken fingers and fries: $9; side of fries: $3. Add-ons: Add a growler for $25; selections are provided when placing your meal order. Also ask about bottled wine choices. Air Force 73rd Birthday: Drive by for a free cupcake and ice cream cup 3–5 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18 while it lasts! Free Membership Luncheon: Drive through 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 30 for your lunch to-go! Member guests pay $5. Club members are free!
Curbside location Curbside to-go service is located at the first parking lot entrance to the Club from the corner of Barnes and Jackson Boulevards, on the McChord Pub side of the building.
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Get a taste of WZ Café C
ome on over for a taste sensation at Warrior Zone Café! We’re open seven days a week for take-out orders from our menu, plus monthly specials like our popular SMOGA burger. Also take a look at our other menu items: Quesadillas — cheese, B.C.Q., veggie and Buffalo chicken. Gourmet salads — chef, chicken Cobb and chicken spinach (see pages 40–41). Burgers — classic American slider, cowboy bacon slider, Angus beef burger and mesquite chicken. Flatbread pizza — meat lovers, 2x pepperoni, chicken bacon, five-o and supreme. Sandwiches and wraps — turkey bacon ranch, chicken chipotle, Buffalo tender, the Cuban and Philly cheese steak. Also get sides and appetizers with your brew or drink. Dine outside on physically distanced tables or take your meal with you when you’re on the go! For more information, call 253-477-5835. Warrior Zone Café is at 11592 D. St. (at 17th Street), Lewis North.
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Each month, hear what different JBLM Service members, family members, civilians and others like to do in their spare time.
Spc. Rachael San Pietro
Last TV show you watched: Outlander Last time you tried something new: Recently tried a new fruit (pluot pear). Last good advice you received: To save money as early on in your career as you can. Last time you laughed: Just now, answering these questions! Last adventure you went on: Hiked to the summit of Mount Rose.
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