Summer heat: Lt. Dan Band and Independence Day Celebration on Barton Field | Winning! Woodworth Consolidated Library Gets its Dues! | Valuing our Differences and Celebrating our Diversity | Coping with Separation: Ways to Weather Deployment
TAKING CARE OF OUR SERVICE MEMBERS pg. 44
AUGUST 2012
Keep smilin’, keep shinin’ Knowin’ you can always count on me, for sure That’s what friends are for For good times and bad times I’ll be on your side forever more That’s what friends are for... www.facebook.com/FYIMagazine
www.fortgordon.com | 1
Contents
21
44
40
SUMMER HEAT: LT. DAN BAND AND INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION ON BARTON FIELD | WINNING! WOODWORTH CONSOLIDATED LIBRARY GETS ITS DUES! | VALUING OUR DIFFERENCES AND CELEBRATING OUR DIVERSITY | COPING WITH SEPARATION: WAYS TO WEATHER DEPLOYMENT
From the cover
TAKING CARE OF OUR SERVICE MEMBERS pg. 44
AUGUST 2012
2 | FYI AUGUST 2012
24
Deployment isn’t easy - but we want to make it easier! Our cover model - SFC Brian Addis - is opening a care package sent to him while he is deployed in Afghanistan. Care packages are one of many ways to take care of your service member during times of separation - for more ideas check out our feature Taking Care of Our Service Members on page 44.
AUGUST 2012 In Every Issue
Features
5 Editor’s Notes 7 Around Town Calendar 8 Events with Swami 9 Your Health 10 Planning Your Career 11 Financial Fundamentals 12 Reflections 13 Restaurant Reviews 15 Customer Care Zone 16 Letters From Home 17 Boots on the Ground 27 This Month in MWR 55 From the Bookshelf 57 Tech Ninja 59 Movie Review 61 Director’s Chair 62 Snapshot 64 Next 65 In Focus
21
An MWR Summer! Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band graced the outdoor stage on Barton Field, July 5 - just two days after the Fort Gordon Independence Day Celebration. We were there to capture some wonderful memories!
24
And We Have a Winner MWR’s Woodworth Library was recently awarded one of the highest honors in the country - Federal Library of the Year. We go behind the bookshelves to discover more about the library’s resources and brilliant staff!
40
American Indian Heritage Valuing our differences and celebrating our diversity. That is - in a nutshell - the purpose of National American Indian Heritage Month. Throughout the month of August, we take the opportunity to honor and recognize the original peoples of this land.
44
Taking Care of our Service Members Deployments are a way of life at the moment, but some individuals and family members have approached this stressful period with grace, positivity and creativity and in some pretty amazing ways. We look at unique activities and organizations which have sprung up in response to these challenging periods of absence.
Contributors Charmain Brackett
Devin Eady
Shandora Brooks-Eady
Jeff Haskell
Kathleen Haskell
Nathan Hoeller
Kim Hussey
Susie Joyner
Arial Marsh
Kaitlyn Murray
Rachael Sosa
Jerry Swain
Molly Swift
Crystal Tyson
Steve Walpert
Alice Wynn
www.fortgordon.com | 3
CE
reative Cuisine xceptional Service Gordon’s Conference & Catering provides dining, conference and catering solutions. Our experienced staff wants to help you with your special occasion: birthdays, hail & farewells, conferences, weddings and more! Dine With Us! Gordon’s Conference & Catering serves a wide array of hot and cold items Monday-Friday, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Choose from our daily specials, hot sandwiches, buffet or salad bar. We also serve Starbucks coffee! For a complete menu, pick online at www.fortgordon.com. Catering Our catering services are second are here to serve you, so let us help you design a beautiful celebration, professional networking conference or formal gathering. Need off-site catering? No problem. Contact our catering manager, Janice Ivey, for more information.
19th Street, Building 18402 • (706) 791-6780 • Fax (706) 793-7414 4 | FYI AUGUST 2012
editor’snotes Molly Swift, Editor
AUGUST 2012
The Fort Gordon FYI is a publication produced by the Marketing Office of the Fort Gordon Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare & Recreation. The appearance of sponsorship and/or advertising does not imply an endorsement by the U.S. Army.
Command
MG LaWarren V. Patterson Commanding General COL Robert A. Barker Garrison Commander
DFMWR Administration
James T. Green Director, DFMWR Tiffany Olds Chief, NAF Support Services Kim Lyons Chief, Marketing Director
Staff
Molly Swift Editor Nathan Hoeller Creative Director Bartley Harper Senior Graphic Designer/Webmaster Jenifer Immer Graphic Designer Arial Marsh Staff Writer Crystal Tyson Contributor/Photographer
FYI Advertising and Sales
Anna Gaillard Corporate Sponsorship & Sales Manager
Contact Information
Darling Hall, Room 337 P.O. Box 7180 Fort Gordon, GA 30905 Office.................................................. 706.791.6779 Fax...................................................... 706.791.7189 Editor................................................... 706.791.6234 Sales.................................................... 706.791.3912
www.fortgordon.com
Teamwork is a phrase often thrown around without much thought given to the significance of its meaning – or, indeed, what results are only possible by working as a team. Not one of us is Super Man. It is a dry term, yes, but it seems to me it is also one that fully and completely describes our community. Like most, I have seen it in the workplace; in fact, I am insanely happy to be working with an awesome mix of talented individuals in MWR. But I have mostly seen it present among the diverse group of people who make up Fort Gordon, as well as those who support the Fort. In July, Fort Gordon played host to a number of events; for me, the most enjoyable was the Lt Dan Band’s concert. I was taking photos and had grabbed my little Flip camera on the way out the door. Gary Sinise - known best for his uber famous role in Forrest Gump – is a selfless and relentless supporter of our military community. I have heard him talk passionately about the humble admiration he feels for service members who volunteer to serve the country; he genuinely touches people with his kindness and generosity. To see him on stage performing with his band members was something I had looked forward to for many months. That night, the heavens opened and lightning and thunder crashed through the sky; we had to evacuate Barton Field’s outdoor stage within minutes of the concert’s scheduled start time. For those of us who had worked so hard to organize and promote the event, the following hour we spent wondering whether the show would actually take place was almost heartbreaking. The band went on around 9 p.m. The crowd didn’t quite grow to the size we had hoped for, but around 1500-2000 happy concert-goers rocked out to Purple Haze, The Devil Went Down to Georgia and Rolling in the Deep and more. They were incredible – and what struck me the most was how smoothly they all played together, moving in well-rehearsed steps across the stage, singing to and acknowledging the crowd while delivering a fabulous performance. It was so good and yet Gary Sinise took his place toward the back of the stage for most of the show; it was all for us. He enjoyed seeing us dance, have fun – I’m pretty sure the smiles on the faces in front of him were quite a show in themselves. The highlight (for me, at least) was during the Tom Cochrane track, Life is a Highway. The children were invited up from the crowd onto the stage. As the chorus kicked in toward the end, rows of our kids stood on stage smiling, clapping and dancing with Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band. Again, the smiles on their faces were just stunning – pure joy. And that made everything – all the meetings, phone calls and emails, the sweat and hard work of many individuals working as a team – worth every second. We hope you have enjoyed the summer fun as much as we have – and it’s not over yet! Pointes West is hosting another Family Fun Day on August 4. The library, outdoor pool, riding stables, golf course and bowling center are offering a host of activities to get you through these dog days and we’re going to show off a few of our MWR facilities on page (page 51) to jog your memory. Or, it may be an introduction. After all, this is PCS season. It is also deployment season, so we put together a list of resources to help you through your re-locations and separations. Check it out on (page 44). And whatever we’ve missed, we’re talking about on Facebook and Twitter, so be sure to get social with MWR and the FYI; we’re here for you, just as you are here for us.
Like us!
www.Facebook.com/FYIMagazine www.fortgordon.com | 5
Presented by:
Pointes West Army Resort August 4, 2012 • Noon-6:00 p.m. Join us for a fun-filled day of music, food, games and prizes! Come celebrate summer with your family and relax on our white, sandy beach, go for a swim to cool down from the hot summer sun or enjoy the breeze with some parasailing. Beach area opens at 10:00 a.m. Kayak, canoe and pedal boat rentals.
www.fortgordon.com
6 | FYI AUGUST 2012
A
Around Town
August
Films on Friday: Porgy and Bess 12 p.m. In this legendary Gershwin opera set among the black residents of a fishing village in 1912 South Carolina, Bess - a woman with a disreputable history - tries to break free from her brutish lover Crown after he becomes wanted for murder. The only person willing to overlook her past and offer her shelter is the crippled Porgy. Their relationship is threatened by the disapproval of the townspeople, the presence of her old drug supplier Sportin’ Life - and the threatened return of Crown. After viewing the film, museum director Kevin Grogan leads a discussion. Participants are invited to bring a lunch. Free admission. For more information, call 706 724-7501 or visit the website www.themorris.org.
3
Morris Museum of Art | 1 Tenth Street | Downtown Augusta GA
Ed Turner & Number 9 Band 7:30 p.m. Imperial Theatre, 749 Broad Street, Downtown Augusta Ed Turner and band will perform three great sets of music, including the entire legendary “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” album, complete with the Number 9 strings and horns. The two “Pepper-” era songs, “Penny Lane” and ‘Strawberry Fields Forever”, will also be recreated note-for-note in the usual stellar Number 9 tradition! In addition, Number 9 will also play timeless and classic tunes from artists including Chicago, Boz Scaggs, Stevie Wonder, Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, and Dire Straits. For tickets and more information, call 706 722-8341 or visit the website www.imperialtheatre.com.
10
Imperial Theatre | 749 Broad Street | Downtown Augusta GA
Georgia’s First Fourth 1 p.m.-3 p.m. It might be a good distance to drive, but what a fantastic opportunity to hear the reading of the Declaration of Independence as it was read in the town of Savannah in August of 1776! Participate in the debate to declare independence or to remain loyal to the king. See musket firings and more. $4.50 - $8. For more information, call (912) 353-3023.
11-12
Wormsloe Historic Site | 7601 Skidaway Road | Savannah GA
Gold Fever! 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Hear the history of local gold mining and geology. The morning begins with a presentation depicting cultural influences that lead up to the 1828 Georgia “gold rush.” A hike on the Martin Mine trail provides an opportunity to interpret the scars that gold mining efforts left on the landscape. Register by August 10. $5 plus $5 parking. For more details, call (706) 878-3087.
25
Smithgall Woods State Park | Helen GA
www.fortgordon.com | 7
eventswithswami End of Summer with MWR Jerry “Swami” Swain, Special Events Coordinator
The relentless heat will be giving into the cooler winds of the southern fall season. Summer vacation time is nearing the end and time for the kids to start preparing to return to school. Parents – our children grow up so fast and before you know it, you’re reminiscing about the time they were first learning how to ride a bike or their first time playing on the soccer, baseball, or football team at the Child Youth Center. Spend as much quality time as possible with your children because college is just around the corner. There is still time to hit the brand new spray park at the outdoor pool. Have you seen that gargantuan slide? There has to be at least six turns on that thing! I know you read the article in last month’s FYI about beaches. Well, you don’t actually have to travel to South Carolina or Florida for some beach action; the Pointes West Army Resort just up Washington Road has a beach. What about some golf lessons? You may have the next child prodigy and not know it! If the outdoors just isn’t your thing, MWR provides many facilities for you and the kids to hangout and have safe fun, fun, fun! The bowling center is a great place to play and eat. Your child prefers to read? No problem – the Woodworth Library was selected as the 2011 Federal Library of the year! Go see Ms. Susie and her wonderful staff and just have some quiet time learning and relaxing. Take them out on the night to one of the Fort Gordon Dinner Theatre productions and, yes, they get to eat too. There is no reason for the kids to say “MOM I’m bored.” Don’t forget about the Get Outdoors Gordon trips. Take the kids kayaking down the Augusta canal and ride bikes back up the canal shaded trail. Take a class at one our many fitness centers; just spend as much time learning and having fun with the kids as possible. See you guys at Oktoberfest, October 11-14!
That Guy
8 | FYI august 2012
yourhealth
MRSA and Flesh-Eating Bacteria: What are they and how do people get them? Kathleen Haskell, EAMC Marketing
With stories about MRSA and “flesh-eating bacteria” being in the news so often recently, additional information and education on the topic is appropriate. MRSA (pronounced “mursa”) is short for methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus. It is a potentially dangerous type of staph bacteria that is resistant to certain antibiotics. It typically causes skin infection but can also affect the bloodstream, lungs, heart, bones and joints. MRSA is transmitted most frequently by direct skin-toskin contact or contact with shared items or surfaces that someone with the infection has come into contact with - such as towels, used bandages, equipment, or other contaminated items and surfaces. In the beginning, MRSA may look like a spider bite, irritated pimple, small cut, or bruise. Eventually it will progress to a boil-like abscess or infection. Symptoms of MRSA are redness, pain, swelling, and possibly drainage at the infection site. The patient might also feel nauseous, fatigued, or be running a fever. The infected area may seem to be expanding. The only way to confirm whether a person has MRSA is through a culture taken by a doctor. The doctor will immediately put patients who have, or are believed to have, MRSA on a strong antibiotic or a combination of antibiotics. It may be necessary to put the patient on intravenous antibiotics. If you suspect you or someone you know has MRSA, it is vital that you get to a doctor right away. The mortality rate is between 4% and
10%, so this is something that shouldn’t be ignored. See your doctor at once if you have a boil or abscess.
Certain communities are currently having epidemics of MRSA. Do your part to avoid getting it and follow these guidelines:
Left untreated, MRSA can result in Necrotizing Fasciitis (NF), which means “death of a portion of the tissue”. NF is also known as the “flesheating bacteria”. About 17% of MRSA cases are associated with NF. Necrotizing fasciitis usually occurs in the extremities and requires surgery to remove it. Many different types of bacteria can cause this infection but in severe cases, this form of necrotizing soft tissue infection is due to the bacteria Streptococcus pyogenes.
1. Wash your hands thoroughly (20-30 seconds with soap and warm water), especially after coughing or sneezing, after using the bathroom, or before you touch food.
Necrotizing soft tissue infection develops when the bacteria enters the body, usually through a minor cut or scrape. The bacteria begin to grow and release harmful toxins that kill tissue and affect blood flow to the area. As the tissue dies, the bacteria enter the blood and rapidly spread throughout the body. NF can destroy the skin and soft tissue, including fat and the skin covering the muscles. The so-called “flesheating bacteria” is aggressive and spreads rapidly. 25% or more of patients with NF die, some within 18 hours. Because NF is caused by a strain of streptococcus bacteria, it is highly important that patients see a doctor right away if they suspect they have strep throat. If patients get to the doctor early enough and the infection is not limb or life threatening, most likely they will be treated with oral antibiotics and be seen on an outpatient basis.
2. Carry an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with you for the times you can’t wash your hands. 3. Treat any skin injuries by washing and applying an antibiotic ointment or spray. 4. If you do have a skin injury, avoid anyone who might have strep throat. 5. Avoid sharing personal items such as towels, razors, clothing, or athletic equipment. 6. Shower after interactive physical exertion, sports, or working out. 7. Cover cuts and scrapes with a clean bandage. Remember the warning signs and be proactive in taking care of yourself. If you have any questions about MRSA or NF, please talk to your doctor. Sources: US Army Public Health Command and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
www.fortgordon.com | 9
planningyour career The Proteus Solution – Adapting to the New Workplace Kim Hussey
In my last two articles, Jay Block’s protean model of the “New Workplace” was discussed. The four components, again in review, include: 1. Accountability – Taking responsibility for your career and livelihood by ongoing personal and professional development to increase your value to the employer. This step involves creating an action plan or strategy listing ways to increase your personal market value. 2. Anticipation – Predicting future opportunities based on current trends in the marketplace. What skills do I need to develop to remain an asset in the workplace? What can I do now to prepare for the future in the event my position is downsized? 3. Adaptability – The flexibility and openness to accept rapid changes occurring in the workforce. This includes a willingness to embrace life long learning. 4. Action – The best laid plan works only if action is taken. This generally means a commitment of time, hard work, and learning through trial and error. The concepts of Accountability and Anticipation have already been explored. Adaptability is the next protean component to be considered. A Great Example of Adaptation Some months ago I attended a workshop called “Power Up: Your Social Strategy,” offered by The Augusta Chronicle. The free workshop, with limited seating, was scheduled to take place over a two-day period. The attendee was given a choice to attend any one of eight, onehour sessions, the option to choose the day and time “that works best for you.” The workshops were advertised for weeks in advance. The full page ads virtually shouted out the significance and value of this information to local business owners and managers: Due to the popularity of the internet, customers are more informed than ever before when making buying decisions. Besides visiting a website, they seek out the advice of family, friends, online acquaintances and reviews from other customers. As a business owner, how do you reach them? Learn to effectively use the following tools to increase your business: 10 | FYI august 2012
Social Networking Sites – Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and foursquare Local Online Listings - Google, Yahoo and Bing Mobile Websites – building a mobile friendly site, vanity keywords and SMS Text offerings My chief question was, “All this in one hour?” I was hooked. The multi-media power point presentation was very exciting, focusing on the dire importance of using social media to conduct business in today’s world. Overwhelming statistics were discussed, set to high power techno music that brought urgency to the information. The gist of the meeting was that to be successful in today’s economy, businesses must become savvy and use Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, blogging, and search engines to reach the new market – or possibly go out of business. If I had taken a camera and snapped photos of the faces in that session, filled with mostly middle-aged, small-business owners, a look of sheer terror or at least, raised eyebrows, as if to say “You have got to be kidding me” pervaded the room. When asked how many in the room were presently using social media to sell their products, of 75+ business people in attendance, only a few hands shot up. Between the body language and muttering I heard around me, an attitude of resistance, even defeat, as in “Who has the time to learn all this stuff?” was permeating the room. But not to worry! The Augusta Chronicle (AC) offered to take care of our business needs – for a pretty penny. AC offered to list my business on 25 search engines and media sites, to regularly check my business reviews and offer damage control, rebuking negative comments from angry customers or unscrupulous competitors, and more. The Augusta Chronicle had devised a service for those unwilling or unable to invest
their time and energy in using new technology to sell their products and services. What a great example of adapting to the times. Fewer individuals are buying daily newspapers so the Chronicle is now tapping into a great need in the community that they can fill. The Chronicle used ingenuity to take a timely idea, develop it into a strategy, conduct a strategic marketing campaign, and then offer a plan of action that will maintain jobs and offers a great product to local businesses. For those of you who are unemployed, do you continue to develop the skills that would increase your value in the workplace? It is amazing at the number of people who still refuse to deal with the new technology. They have 101 excuses, including: “I don’t know how to get started.” “I can’t.” (This means “I won’t”.) “I’m not interested.” For those with internet access, you do not have to leave the comfort of your own home to upgrade your skills. Google has a number of tools available with tutorials built into their system, as does LinkedIn, Facebook and other social media programs. And if you haven’t already discovered this fact, almost anything you want to learn is available on YouTube and much of it is free. Spend 30 minutes a day learning the new social media. Who knows where this value added knowledge can lead you in your job search. You have the time and the opportunity. Why not improve your chances for success? Kim Hussey is the owner of Plan4Success, LLC, an organization devoted to assisting those seeking employment in the CSRA. Contact her for free networking advice at plan4success.mpa@ gmail.com or check out her website at www. plan4success123.com.
financialfundamentals What to do with those Downrange Dollars? Rachael Sosa, ACS, Financial Readiness Specialist
No one likes deployment, but with deployment comes a “windfall” or extra money. There are three things you can do with the extra money. 1. Pay down debt 2. Spend it 3. Save/Invest – emergency fund, short term, mid-range, long-term goals, retirement So, where is the extra money coming from? The first benefit to your finances is the absence of federal taxes. The Combat Zone Tax Exclusion (CZTE) is unlimited for enlisted members and warrant officers and is limited to $7,714.80 per month in 2012 for officers. There are also several other financial benefits depending on the deployed location such as: • Family Separation Allowance (FSA) is payable at $250 per month. FSA accrues from the day of departure from the home station and ends the day prior to arrival at the home station. • Hostile Fire/Imminent Danger Pay (HFP/ IDP). A member of a uniformed service may be paid special pay for any month they were entitled to basic pay. The monthly rate is $225. Service members will receive $7.50 for each day they are on duty in an IDP area up to the maximum monthly rate of $225. • Hard Ship Duty Pay (HDP). Hardship duty pay is an additional compensation paid to Service Members assigned to locations where living conditions are substantially below those conditions in the continental U.S. (CONUS). Rates are payable in increments of $50, $100, or $150 a month depending on the area when in the area for over 30 consecutive days.
As you can see, the “windfall” could be anywhere from $600 - $1,200. Over the course of a nine-month deployment, that is $5,400 to $10,800. That is a nice nest egg! It is very important to have a plan for the extra money. Incredible sacrifice is involved in acquiring the money. You want to have something to show for it. It may be very easy to save money during a deployment. Make sure you take advantage of the opportunities out there. The DOD Savings Deposit Program (SDP) was established to provide members of the uniformed services serving in a designated combat zone the opportunity to build their financial savings. Amounts up to $10,000 may be deposited, earning 10% interest annually. Members must be receiving Hostile Fire Pay and be deployed for at least 30 consecutive days, or one day in each of three consecutive months in order to participate in the program. Service members may begin making deposits on their 31st consecutive day in the designated area. Eligibility to make deposits terminates on the date of departure from theater. Deposited funds will accrue interest at 10% per annually and compounded quarterly. Eligibility for SDP stops on the day of departure; however, interest will continue to accrue up to 90 days after redeployment. It is at that time that the funds must be withdrawn from the account. Again, no one likes deployment, but you need to take advantage of the financial benefits of deployments by having a plan.
www.fortgordon.com | 11
“Perseverance
is not a long race; it is many short races one after another. -Walter Elliott
IHG Army Hotels on Fort Gordon Augusta, GA
The right place to stay is right on post. Comfortable, pet-friendly* rooms, complimentary breakfast, free high-speed Internet, courtesy on-post shuttle service, and Wednesday and Thursday evening socials. Now everything you need is right on post. RESERVATIONS: 877.711.TEAM (8326) or 706.790.3676 IHGArmyHotels.com 250 Chamberlain Avenue Augusta, GA 30905 * A non-refundable pet fee applies.
© 2012 InterContinental Hotels Group. All rights reserved. IHG Army Hotels are independently owned by Rest Easy, LLC, an affiliate of Lend Lease (US) Public Partnerships LLC, and operated by an affiliate of IHG.
12 | FYI august 2012
Balfour Beaty
”
restaurantreviews
The views and opinions expressed by the contributors to this page (express or implied, contractual, tortious or otherwise) are not necessarily those of Fort Gordon or FYI Magazine. FYI Magazine is not paid by the restaurant for a positive or negative review. We do not hold back the negative reviews; however, a bad review does not mean the restaurant is a bad restaurant.
Godfather’s Pizza
Giussepe’s
Luigi’s
Building 29722, B Street, Fort Gordon 706.790.8646
3690 Wheeler Road, Augusta 706.855.0527
590 Broad Street, Augusta 706.722.4056
Godfather’s is a casual, sit-in restaurant that has a terrific lunch buffet. While you may not want to order a whole pizza, for less than $10 you can have a variety of different style pizza slices, as well as salads; and if it isn’t available on the buffet, they will make it as quickly as possible. The service was speedy and friendly, and the cashier taking my order made sure I got the best bargain, allowing me to change my order twice.
Giussepe’s Pizza & Italian Specialties, a local Augusta favorite, offers casual dining and is great for the whole family. They offer friendly staff, a limited lunch menu and pizza/ pasta buffet (be sure to have plenty of time to spare as they get packed and don’t offer reservations), an extensive dinner menu and daily specials with all the traditional offerings, and, for those who want something a little different, potato pizza – a pleasant surprise.
Luigi’s, open since 1949 and still owned by the Ballas family, has been an Augusta favorite and outlasted most dining establishments in the CSRA. With informal, family-style dining and friendly service, they offer high quality food cooked to order from recipes handed down from generation to generation. Luigi’s is a treat for any first timer and a great repeat dining experience for those who have been there before.
ESTABLISHMENT
ESTABLISHMENT
ESTABLISHMENT
Service Cleanliness
Service Cleanliness
Service Cleanliness
FOOD
FOOD
FOOD
Presentation Taste Quality/Freshness
Presentation Taste Quality/Freshness
Presentation Taste Quality/Freshness
AVERAGE PRICING
$10 & Under
AVERAGE PRICING
$11-$20
AVERAGE PRICING
$11-$20
www.fortgordon.com | 13
Tony Howard DJ, Karaoke and More . . . Let Tony add the Spice to your Party! For Unit Parties, Hail and Farewells, Graduation Parties, Weddings, Anniversaries, or any Celebration. Oldies • Country • Hip-Hop • Rock • Slide Everybody Knows Tony . . . For More Information, Call 706-829-5924
To subscribe to our texting service, Text
MWR to 70720
Our texting service provides you with information about upcoming events and programs as well as competitions and give-aways!
Aug. Ent.
14 | FYI august 2012
customercarezone The Exceptional Family Member Program Jeff Haskell, Customer Service Program Coordinator
The Fort Gordon Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) provides information and referral resources for all active duty exceptional Family Members who reside in the area. Pamela Rachal, the EFMP Manager, defines an exceptional family member as, “a Family Member, regardless of age, who has a chronic medical condition, disability, or special education need which limits their ability to function and requires ongoing counseling, treatment, or therapy.” Pamela emphasized the program is open to all Family Members. “By this I mean children, spouses, and even parents of active duty service members as long as they have ID card privileges.” I asked Grace Bagley, the EFMP Systems Navigator and newest member to the EFMP team, how a Soldier goes about enrolling their Family Member in the program. “Soldiers can contact us at (706) 791-3579/4872 or come see us at Darling Hall in room 155.” Grace went on to say, “Once a Family Member is enrolled I work with them to determine their strengths and needs. There are a multitude of programs and resources available in our community. I match the Families’ needs with resources available. We know the strength of our Soldiers lies in their Families. Our goal is to keep Army Families Army strong and resilient.”
development, and advocating for parents and children. We know what services are required and we know where to find them.” Pamela quickly added, “Staying on top of what is available in the community is almost a full-time job in itself. Fortunately we have an extensive network of community resources so we stay pretty connected with what’s out there.” I was surprised to find out there are over 700 Exceptional Family Members in the Fort Gordon community. The EFMP provides specialized services for each individual and Family enrolled. “I’m happy we have the great level of support in this community”, Grace told me, “We have had a local church pay for the schooling of a diabetic girl who missed classes due to her condition, a local magnate school and then two state universities accept a boy with Asperger’s Syndrome, and a community group help us request a pharmaceutical company provide free medicine to a child when it wasn’t available through the military or TRICARE. This kind of support means a lot to our Soldiers and Army Families.” One of the best ways to find out if you are serving the needs of customers is to ask them. “Grace, how do you know you are giving customers what they need?” I asked.
“I dedicate one day a week to make followup calls. I ask my customers if my referral was helpful. People have to trust and be able to openly communicate with the person helping them. Sometimes we refer someone to the right place but the personal chemistry isn’t right. My role is to find the right match for those I serve. The bottom line is wherever I need to call or whatever I need to do I am here for Army Families.” Here are some things customers have said about the Exceptional Family Member Program: “I [name omitted] thank Ms. Rachal for going above and beyond taking care of my EFMP situation. On the spot she dropped what she was doing… What should have taken 6-8 weeks took one…” “Ms. Rachal is a superb military servant. She has informed me on the EFMP and provided me with different options.” “Ms. Rachal was a lot of help and I really appreciate her patience in my issue.” The strength of our Nation is our Army. The strength of our Army is our Soldiers. The strength of our Soldiers is our Families. Thank you, EFMP, for helping keep our Army strong! Have a wonderful August and I’ll see you next month.
“Jeff, it is unfortunate that some Soldiers think having a Family Member enrolled in this program will hurt their careers.” Pamela said. “Here are the facts. When a soldier with an Exceptional Family Member comes down on orders, PERSCOM coordinates with the gaining command to determine if required services are available. If they aren’t, PERSCOM considers other assignment locations based on assignment priorities. If there are no alternatives, PERSCOM can elect to send the soldier on an unaccompanied tour. Exceptional Family Member Program information is not maintained in files that are viewed by selection boards or assignment managers. Consequently, being enrolled in the program has no impact on a Soldier’s career.” I asked Pamela how her program strives to be the first choice for customers. “We have an experienced staff with years of service in the areas of social work, human services, child www.fortgordon.com | 15
Letters from Home Shandora Brooks-Eady
I will never forget the text saying “It’s official we are deploying” I stared at my phone for what felt like hours trying to figure out how am I going to deal with you not being here. At the time we were in the middle of planning our wedding which was April 2012. I felt like a part of me had died when reading that text, so I went on with things such as school and wedding planning, as if a deployment wasn’t near. We had a fabulous wedding in April then, shortly after, moved into our first house together. Things were going great, then your leave ended – you went back to work and came home with all this camouflage patterned stuff and it hit me. Within less than a month, you were leaving – going away for nine months, with no R&R, no weekends together, nothing. Once again I was devastated. As the days went on, it felt like they were flying and − before I knew it − the deployment day came. As usual, the alarm went off and you woke right up and began getting dressed but, instead of getting in the car driving yourself, you woke me up saying, “are you ready?’ At that moment I knew this was going to be harder than I expected. I somehow pulled myself together and drove you to the company crying all the way there with you constantly wiping my face
16 | FYI august 2012
saying “baby, don’t cry.” As you walked away from the car, I began crying uncontrollably − so bad I had to pull the car over to get myself together. As the morning went on I started feeling better as I put on makeup, styled my hair and got dressed − and I was on the way to attend your sendoff ceremony. I arrived at the company with your favorite breakfast in hand – a chicken biscuit, hash brown and orange juice – you greeted me with a big smile. We sat down, chatted and then it was time for formation. We said our good-byes and I went and seated myself in the gym. The entire ceremony I couldn’t take my eyes off you. I couldn’t even tell you what else went on during the ceremony. As it came to a close, you guys began marching out. As I waited to say my last goodbye, I began crying again. As you got closer I ran up to you and gave you one last hug and once again you said “baby, don’t cry.” I miss you so much... I don’t know if I should tell you this, but I’ve been having a hard time dealing with the last few weeks. It’s not your fault, so please don’t feel bad... And I will be alright, so don’t worry too much. A lot of the girls here have asked me to go bowling and things, but I haven’t really been out since you
left. Things just aren’t the same. I miss getting in the car and not having to honk the horn 5,000 times for you to come out of the house; not being woken up by your 4:45 a.m. alarm, or having to hear how you guys ran 200 miles at pt. (yeah, really) are some of the small things that I miss. The house is finally coming together and I’m finally finding things to keep me busy. I will be starting school in a few weeks − that will definitely keep me busy! I haven’t done much today, but maybe three or so loads of laundry and cooked breakfast. It’s still early. However, as I go through my days – no matter how little or how much I accomplish – there’s one thing that’s always a constant and that’s my love for you in an anticipating kind of way. I prayed for you then and haven’t stopped since. I love how our love has matured and marvel at the thought of our aging love. We are still newlyweds and we will grow old together. Many newlyweds say “we made it through our first year of marriage” at their first anniversary. We will be able to say we made it through our first year of marriage and our first deployment. Love You Babe.
Devin
Eady
Hello, my name is Devin Eady. I am currently deployed in Afghanistan for a nine month tour; this is my first deployment and it is hard for me with me being a newlywed – this being the longest time my wife and I have ever been apart. I was just getting adjusted to our life together and now I am away from her. But hey, that’s the life of a solider and I enjoy every moment of it. My wife is very supportive – she always finds a way to make me smile or laugh. The highlight of my day is hearing my wife’s voice and seeing her face; it helps me cope with being away from her. She gives me the motivation and courage needed to go on to the next day.
contact with her every day if possible so that she can know that I am okay and that I am counting down the days until we are back in each other’s arms. I have not been deployed long, but with the support of my fellow battle buddies and my chain of command I know I will survive my first deployment. God Bless America
All of the cards, pictures and letters that my wife sends me are very helpful also. I try to make
www.fortgordon.com | 17
All About the Experience:
h ir e d! Arial Marsh, MWR Staff Writer
In a world where even those with Master’s Degrees are struggling to find the right ‘niche’ in the workforce, it is to be expected of high school age youth to dread the idea of one day being forced to enter that quagmire of paper work, interviews, and classes on ‘fluffing up’ your resume. It seems a full college education is the only key to landing that corner office, but even then, there is an even greater need – no a demand – for experience. And lots of it. That is where Captain Obvious strikes again. To get experience, you need a job. To get a job, you need experience. So how can your teenagers possibly hope to gain either of those this fall? College is at least a few years off, and to the fifteen year old freshmen, an official ‘job’ isn’t even in their UrbanDictionary. So what now? Well, I have the solution. The Army, through CYSS, has developed a program specifically designed for teens ages 15-18 who are looking for the real workforce experience, workforce-preparation and secondary-education exploration needed before ‘real life’ strikes after graduation. High school students who are accepted into the HIRED! Apprenticeship Program are placed in 12, week-long positions with any of the Morale, Welfare & Recreation (MWR) operations in the Garrison, ranging from Pointes West and Hilltop Riding Stables, to Gordon Lanes bowling center and the ACS office. The wide variety of “placement sites” offers teens a chance to gain perspective on their personal choice of employment. Aligned with dozens of specific career paths, and designed to pave the way into college or higher education positions, these terms are tailored to your child’s particular interests, and overseen by the guidance of a dedicated on-site mentor: hence the use of the name “apprenticeship.” Of course this isn’t a real job, but it has almost all the perks of one! With a bounty of resume content, recommendation letters, and importantly to most teens, a cash “award” at the completely of each
18 | FYI august 2012
term, it is by far the best program offered to military teens. I should know. As a 17 year old in the program, I have nearly three years of work experience from working in a Public Affairs Office and writing for a newspaper in Fort Bliss, TX, to currently interning with Fort Gordon’s MWR Marketing, writing for the FYI magazine under our amazing editor, Molly Swift. As an apprentice, I am required to complete 180 hours of work per term, meaning about 15 hours per week. For me – a homeschooled teen – that means coming in around 8:30 a.m. and leaving at 4:30 p.m. – but each participant is offered the chance to customize his/her schedule to a certain degree. There are four separate terms per year; a spring, summer, fall and winter. Teens are only allowed two terms per fiscal year, so if you wanted to ‘double book’ during the summer (360 hours, 12 weeks, double pay) or do back-to-back terms, you can! Now, I know what you are thinking. It will be the first question your little rebel says the moment you tell him about this. “How much do I get paid?” (I’m guilty. I used the funds to publish my first novel!) The payments are a ‘reward’ offered through Kansas State University. For the first and second term completed, you receive $500 each. For the third and fourth, the reward is raised to $625. Now, that might not seem like much, upon doing the math ($2 per hour) but let me assure you of this: I have never before encountered a better environment for real-life, hands on experience than I have under this program. Each placement site and mentor I have worked under has offered me more intellectual and social growth than a reward will ever capture. To make it short, I would do it for free. In fact, I will be, once this final term ends, and I sincerely urge you to get your own teenagers involved. No after school program, or extra curricular activity, will ever hold better standing on anyone’s tier of importance than this true-to-life experience. To learn more about the HIRED Program, please see Mrs. JoAnn Lamberty at Youth Services, Building 45410. She can also be reached by phone at (706) 791-3551, or e-mail joann.lamberty.naf@mail.mil. If you have any questions for me, a veteran partaker of this program, I can be reached at arial.a.marsh@gmail.com.
DEPLOYMENT:
A Different Perspective – From the Eyes of a Teen Kaitlyn Murray
Some people must face it at least once, sometimes more. It can be the hardest thing to have to go through and it is even difficult for the kids. Nobody knows what kind of things we have to go through. We go from seeing our parent every day, to not seeing them for up to nine months to a year. We wake up in the morning, get ready for school, go to school, come home from school and try to get that one chance to talk to our parent who we may have not heard from in a while. The people at school don’t see what we have to deal with at home; they only see us with smiling faces trying to hide the sadness that is carried with us almost every day of the deployment. People at school try to understand what we go through but they never can actually grasp the concept unless they have actually gone through it themselves. They try to help distract us from the problem but it only really works for a short time. We try to keep busy with things like sports and school, but it only takes our mind off of the deployment for a short time then we are surrounded by the fact that our parent won’t be there to see any of our accomplishments. We can always tell them about it whenever we hear from them, but it isn’t the same when they actually haven’t seen it happening like in the past. As kids, we also are there for the mom or dad that is still with us. We can’t ever bear to see them cry – when they do, it doesn’t last very long. We, as kids are always trying to help cheer them up and help them forget about it. People say that the one parent that is still here has to step up to be both parents during a deployment, but we kids seem to do this without even giving it a second thought. We try to step up to do the things that our parent can’t do all by themselves; like doing more things around the house. Just doing this, I think, makes our parent feel that ‘We can do this’. If the parent can think this, it makes us kids believe that this year will be over before we know it.
It is now a year in the future. The day has finally come that you all get to see your loved one. You clean the house, make signs, and anything else you might think to do. As kids, we are filled with so much emotions ranging from speechless to ecstatic. We skip school for the big homecoming, to go and wait for the moment that has finally come. As everybody is sitting around waiting for the Soldiers to walk into the room and be released, emotions are filling up the room. As the doors open, the room goes silent. At last, they are walking into the room. The next few minutes go by in a blur. All of a sudden you are hugging your Service Member and know that everything is going to be alright. For more information on deployment cycle support services, please contact Army Community Service at (706) 791-3579 or visit us on our website www.gordon.army.mil/ acs/deployment.
As an apprentice with the CYSS Hired Program, I had an opportunity to work with the Mobilization and Deployment Readiness Program. I learned a lot about what they do for family members of those Service Members getting ready to deploy and those that are currently deployed. They have multiple resources that are all here to provide the support that you may need while your loved one is gone. Some of these resources are the Family Outreach Center (FOC) for Family Readiness Groups (FRGs) so you can connect with your unit, Child Youth School Services (CYSS) for childcare and other kids stuff, and Army Community Service (ACS). Army Community Service has a lot of programs, including a program during the school year for kids in grades K-8th grade to come and participate in different activities called “Deployment Buddies.” If you find yourself needing help, you can always call ACS Information and Referral to get any information that you may need. www.fortgordon.com | 19
20 | FYI august 2012
AN
SUMMER! Photography by Bartly Harper, Crystal Tyson and Molly Swift
Fort Gordon’s Independence Day Celebration
Even the sweltering heat didn’t stop the crowd from getting on its feet!
The Swingin’ Medallions got everyone up and dancing with classic and contemporary favorites!
The tank is always a popular attraction!
The US Army Signal Corps Band
It got a bit crowded
MWR Marketing gave out some beach balls…and they were popular
Our sponsors loved talking to the patrons! www.fortgordon.com | 21
Celebration: A time for family
Nobody could accuse them of not having a sense of humor!
Dancing the night away‌
The fireworks show was the best in the CSRA!
Gary Sinise & the Lt. Dan Band
The Gary Sinise Foundation is dedicated to serving the Nation by honoring our defenders, veterans, first responders, their families, and those in need.
The field started to fill up‌before the rain 22 | FYI august 2012
Just a few of the reasons the band does what it does!
And then the rain came
Gary Sinise didn’t seem fazed
Gary Sinise, Dan Myers, Jeff Vezain, Mari Anne Jayme, Ernie Denov, Danny Gottlieb, Julie Dutchak, Beth Gottlieb and Molly Callinan performing The Devil Went Down to Georgia!
Some of our 15th Signal Soldiers
The smile says it all
The Lt Dan Band’s Gary Sinise and Jeff Vezain
Kids on stage: I’ll be there when the light comes in. Just tell ‘em we’re survivors!
Age certainly wasn’t an issue
One little girl got her own little show
Some enjoyed the show from up close
Kimo Williams, a Vietnam vet, kicking off Purple Haze
The singers were incredible!
The rain returns…at the end
www.fortgordon.com | 23
And We Have a Winner! Why Woodworth Consolidated Library is the best there is Arial Marsh, MWR Staff Writer
When you hear about any kind of event at a library, very rarely is the news going to be anything to get terribly excited about, but Woodworth Consolidated Library is out to change that and more. With over 150 unique programs, the Woodworth Consolidated Library and its team has been honored as the 2011 Federal Library/Information Center of the Year. It was proudly recognized for motivating and inspiring over 12,000 Fort Gordon patrons by delivering real-world information services and meeting the educational and training needs of soldiers and their families.
24 | FYI august 2012
Through community partnerships with local service organizations, the Woodworth Consolidated Library created and personally hosted special programs supporting deployed families, youth work-study, such as hosting CYSS HIRED apprentices, and promoted overall literacy. They paved the way to the new era of information distribution with supporting the latest e-reading and tablet technology. Through craftiness and dexterity, Woodworth’s committed team was able to regain over 2,000 feet of usable space through the repurposing of Library furnishings, re-directing traffic flows, and completing five renovation projects, creating a serene, open environment for patrons to enjoy while they dive into their latest inked adventure. So what can this amazing installment offer you? Well, the list is as plentiful as words themselves. Are you a movie buff? With FREE rentals on classic favorites, new blockbuster releases, and star-studded, full season TV shows, Woodworth is your haven. For those of you who love to listen to the written word, but not read it, there is a selection of top selling audio books; and with hundreds of CD’s to choose from, in just about every genre, your playlist will never be lacking! Did you just get the latest Nook or Kindle? They now have offered a ground breaking way for you to check out the latest release directly from your tablet – just ask for instructions during the ‘checkout’ phase. Woodworth Consolidated Library has gone above and beyond all this to offer even more. There are computers you can use, a printer, telephone, a ‘video messaging room’ for video conferences, complete with children’s books at hand to read to your little one while you are away, and there is even a ‘Word Processing Room’ for those of us who need to escape and write up that report. Is that all? Of course not! They keep a full calendar stocked with events catering to all ages and interests. Upcoming events include: Reference and Research Classes, Music @ the Library, Books Around Town Book Club, Librarian’s Review, Book Talk and Signing with local sci-fi/fantasy author Charmain Zimmerman Brackett, and more, so be sure to come by Building 33500, 549 Rice Road to check out why this truly is the best the Army has to offer! www.fortgordon.com | 25
26 | FYI august 2012
www.fortgordon.com | 27
COMMUNITY SERVICES
Darling Hall, Bldg. 33720 307 Chamberlain Ave. Suite 224, 155 and 172 www.gordon.army.mil/acs www.facebook.com/fortgordonacs 706-791-3579 Toll Free: 1-877-310-5741 ..............................................................................
Army Family Action Plan (AFAP) 706-791-2820
..............................................................................
Army Family Team Building (AFTB) 706-791-2820
..............................................................................
Army Volunteer Corps (AVC) 706-791-3880 ...............................................................................
Christmas House* 706-791-3880
..............................................................................
Employment Readiness Program (ERP) 706-791-7878
..............................................................................
Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) 706-791-4872
..............................................................................
..............................................................................
Family Advocacy Program (FAP) 706-791-3648/6632 • Emergency Shelter • Emergency Transportation • Emergency Respite Care • New Parent Support • Victim Advocacy / Domestic Violence Program
Mobilization And Deployment Program 706-791-1958
EAMC Department of Social Work Service (SWS): 706-787-3656 or 5811 Domestic Violence Hotline: 706-791-STOP (7867)
..............................................................................
Financial Readiness 706-791-1918/8586 • Consumer Information • Personal Financial Management/ Consumer Advocacy • Army Emergency Relief (AER) • ACS Emergency Food Program
..............................................................................
Information And Referral Services 706-791-0792 The Information Desk operates Mon.-Fri., 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. • Military Onesource: 1-800-342-9647 or www.militaryonesource.com • Family Outreach Center (791-5220)
Employment Readiness Program Workshops FY12/13 Workshops be held at the Family Outreach Center (FOC), Bldg. 33512, behind Woodworth Library) or Bldg. 29603 on Barnes Ave. – unless specified. DATE: CLASS: AUGUST 9 Aug. 2012 Job Search Strategies 13 Aug. 2012 Steps to Federal Employment 14 Aug. 2012 Resume Writing 101 23 Aug. 2012 Job Search Strategies 30 Aug. 2012 Resume Writing 101
1-2:30 p.m. Bldg. 29603, Barnes Ave. 9:30-11:30 a.m. Bldg. 29603, Barnes Ave. 9-11 a.m. Family Outreach Center 1-4 p.m. Training Room 9-11 a.m. Family Outreach Center
SEPTEMBER 4 Sept. 2012 Resume Writing 101 10 Sept. 2012 Steps to Federal Employment 13 Sept. 2012 Job Search Strategies 18 Sept. 2012 Resume Writing 101 24 Sept. 2012 Steps to Federal Employment
9-11 a.m. Family Outreach Center 9:30-11:30 a.m. Bldg. 29603, Barnes Ave. 1-2:30 p.m. Bldg. 29603, Barnes Ave. 1-3 p.m. Family Outreach Center 9:30-11:30 a.m. Bldg. 29603, Barnes Ave.
OCTOBER 2 Oct. 2012 Resume Writing 101 11 Oct. 2012 Job Search Strategies 16 Oct. 2012 Resume Writing 101 22 Oct. 2012 Steps to Federal Employment 25 Oct. 2012 Interviewing Skills
TIME: LOCATION:
9-11 a.m. Family Outreach Center 1-2:30 p.m. Bldg. 29603, Barnes Ave. 1-3 p.m. Family Outreach Center 9:30-11:30 a.m. Bldg. 29603, Barnes Ave. 1-2:30 p.m. Family Outreach Center
Need help looking for work? Please contact the Employment Readiness Office at 791-7878/0795. Classes and Workshops are available august 2012 to assist28you| inFYI finding gainful employment. Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FortGordonEmploymentReadinessProgram
• Family Readiness Group Training • Unit Service Coordinator
..............................................................................
Outreach 706-791-8358
..............................................................................
Relocation Services 706-791-4181/1922 • Welcome Center: Darling Hall, rm 172 • Lending Closet: Darling Hall, rm. 172 • Welcome CDs • Destination Information
..............................................................................
Soldier And Family Assistance Center (SFAC) 706-791-8777 ..............................................................................
Survivor Outreach Services (SOS) 706-787-4767/1767
..............................................................................
*Swap And Assist Shop (Reopening Aug. 16) 706-791-3579 Hours of Operation: Thu. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. *Denotes special Fort Gordon programs pioneered at Fort Gordon. Army Family Team Building (AFTB) Level I (Modules on basic military information) August 11 & 12, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Family Outreach Center Are you new to the military lifestyle? Then this class is for you! Level I training is specifically for those who are new to the Army (0-5 years). Come learn basic Army terms, acronyms, customs, courtesies, and many more resources that are needed in order to successfully transition into the Army lifestyle. Please contact the Program Manager to sign up for this course, (706) 791-2820. Level III (Modules on how to lead others) August 2 & 3, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Family Outreach Center Thrive in the Army and civilian life by expanding leadership skills, effective communication techniques and learning to mentor others into leadership positions. Learn about the different leadership styles, how to run an effective meeting, how to manage group conflict and how to coach and mentor others. Please contact the Program Manager to sign up for this course, (706) 791-2820. The Fort Gordon Family Readiness Group Conference will be held on August 22, 8:45 a.m.-2:30 p.m., at the Gordon Conference and Catering Center. Point of contact is Mrs. Shawn Williams, (706) 791-1958 or shawn.g.williams3.civ@mail.mil. <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
COMMUNITY SERVICES cont.
...............................................................................
Child Development Center Bldg. 44401, 44th St. 706-791-2701/6761
...............................................................................
Child Development Center East Bldg. 290, 225 East Hospital Rd. 706-791-8707/8507
...............................................................................
Child Development Center West (opening soon) Bldg. 18407, 537 19th St.
...............................................................................
CYSS / Central Registration Bldg. 28320, Lane Ave. 706-791-4455/4722
...............................................................................
CYSS Family Child Care Bldg. 28320 Lane Ave. 706-791-3993/4440
...............................................................................
CYSS GA Pre-K & Pre-K/Kindergarten Afterschool Programs Bldg. 45400, 46th St. 706-791-1306/4790
...............................................................................
CYSS School-Age Services & Middle School/Teen Programs Bldg. 45410, 46th St. 706-791-7575/6500
...............................................................................
CYSS Sports Bldg. 45410, 46th St. 706-791-5104 School Age Center* Only a few more weeks of Summer Camp remaining!! Highlighted trips are: • Aug. 1 – Coca Cola Factory • Aug. 3 – Atlanta Botanical Garden • Aug. 8 – Whirling Water Adventure • Aug. 10 – Riverbank Zoo Back to School School Starting Dates: • Aug. 7 – Columbia County • Aug. 13 – Richmond County • Aug. 20 – Aiken County New Students: All students entering school for the first time in Aiken County are requested to provide the following documents: 1. Birth Certificate
2. Social Security Number 3. Immunization Card/Form 4. Proof of residency Immunization: For complete immunization requirements call 1-800-27-SHOTS or visit www.scdhec.gov. Age Requirements: Child Development (4K): 4 years old by Sep. 1 Kindergarten (5K): 5 years old by Sep. 1 First Grade: 6 years old by Sep. 1 For more info, contact Heather Howse, CYSS School Liaison Services at 706-791-7270. Family Child Care - Career Opportunity Fort Gordon Family Child Care really wants you! Are you interested in earning your own income while staying at home by providing the best care a mom or dad can offer by becoming a Family Child Care Provider in your own home on or off post? For more info on a wonderful rewarding career please contact Angela Davis, FCC Director or Carla Taylor, Administrative Assistant at 706-791-4440/3993 or visit are office at bldg. 28320, Lane Ave. Fort Gordon Pre-Kindergarten/CDC Main The staff at the Fort Gordon Georgia PreKindergarten program would like to welcome all our new students for School Year 20122013. Open House Aug. 10, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. For incoming students and parents. You will get notification of your time rotation from CYSS Georgia Pre-K. Pre-K Parent Orientation Aug. 16, 5 p.m.-6 p.m. Youth Services, bldg. 45410 46th st.
First Day of School Aug. 13, 8 a.m. Youth Services, bldg. 45400 46th st. Additional Services Offered throughout the school year in our NAEYC accredited facilities. Full Day Child Development Services 5:15 a.m.-6 p.m. Before & Afterschool Pre-k/Kindergarten Program* 5:15 a.m.-8 a.m. and 3 p.m.-6 p.m. For programming info contact Darren Brown, SAC Director at 706-791-7575/5127. Parent Central Services* Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. (Extended to 7 p.m. on Wed.) Bldg. 28320, Lane Ave. Parent Central Services offers free registration to all eligible patrons. Families of Deployed Service Members are also eligible to receive free childcare hours and various discounts. Please call Parent Central Services for more information: 706-791-4722. Outreach Services* Child, Youth, & School Services offer several programs through Outreach Services. Please take advantage of our Parent’s Day Out and Parent’s Night Out on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month. Kids on Site is offered at the Gordon Fitness Center. With this program you can enroll your child in a safe, fun, nurturing environment while you exercise, attend a class, tan, or get a massage! Also, Outreach Services is honored to help support our Military Families by providing childcare for events and special activities. Please call (706) 791-1305 for more information.
www.fortgordon.com | 29
COMMUNITY SERVICES cont. Coming Soon: CYSS Back to School Parent & Youth Advisory Council During the 4th quarter Parent & Youth Advisory Council (PYAC) meeting for 2011, Child, Youth & School Services (CYSS) hosted representatives from the surrounding school systems to provide information on various topics for parents in the Fort Gordon Community. Attendees received updates on parental involvement, virtual communication, transportation, construction, and support and resources for Military Students. CYSS School Liaison Services also provided information on the Secondary Education Transition Study – Memorandum of Agreement, Local Action Plans, and Partnerships in Education. On September 14, CYSS will host the 2nd Annual “Back to School PYAC”. This year, attendees will hear “What’s New in Schools?” This topic will feature information on the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children, of which Georgia is now a member. Updates will also be provided on the Home School Attendance Law, Adopt-A-School, and Georgia’s waiver from the No Child Left Behind law. The purpose of the PYAC is to support and supplement the programs of the Fort Gordon CYSS. The PYAC Governing Board is an advisory group of parents, whose children/ youth are regularly enrolled in CYSS programs. CYSS invites the Fort Gordon community to participate in this worthwhile event, as the goal is not only to set Military Families up for success, but keep them on the right track and in communication with the right contacts. If you have a question you would like answered regarding your Military Students’ education, you can complete a “Question Card” at one of the following locations: CYSS CDC Main: Bldg. 44401 on 44th St. Pre-K Annex: Bldg. 45400 on 46th St. CDC East: Bldg. 290, 225 East Hospital Rd. CDC West: Bldg. 18407, 537 19th St. Youth Center: Bldg. 45410, 46th St. Parent Central Services: Bldg. 28320, Lane Ave. For more information, please call Latoya Stallings at (706) 791-1305. *Must Be Registered with CYSS. Call 706-791-4722 to register for FREE. <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
30 | FYI august 2012
clearly. Your guests will surely follow your lead and do the sorting for you. • Choose or encourage the use of reusable or recyclable materials (beverage cups, plates, utensils, etc.).
Bldg. 997, 10th St. and Chamberlain Ave. 706-791-7881 The Green Corner: Summer Recycling Are you planning to travel over the Fourth of July? Having family over for a barbeque? Taking a summer vacation soon? People are increasingly recycling at home, but do you keep it going while away from home? As many of us take road trips, attend fireworks displays and music festivals, we’ll need to remember to find ways to recycle there too. Many community events won’t offer recycling containers or services. Here are some things you can do to help: • Look around for recycling bins, and ask the person or company in charge if you don’t see any. If they didn’t have them for that event, your request may put it top of mind for the next event.
Remembering to recycle while away from home is important. Think about what you can do to help while enjoying your summer celebrations, vacations, and travels. Hours of Operation: Mon.-Fri., 7 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Paul Henri, Manager 706-831-3409 (cell) <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
Bldg. 29300, 30th St. 706-791-2390 For information on prices and services, visit www.FortGordon.com Hours of Operation: Full Service Drop-Off: Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed Sat., Sun., and Holidays
• Write a letter. If there is not a specific person to talk to at the event, write a letter to the organization, again, to put it on their list for the next event.
Self Help: Wed. - Fri. 11:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Sat. & Sun. 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m.
• Bring a bag for your own recycling. If you’re spending the day somewhere that you know won’t provide recycling opportunities, pack a bag for those couple of aluminum cans you and your party will empty while there.
There are no signing - in of vehicles during the last hour of business.
• If you’re hosting, be sure to put out paper bags near the trash bin and label them
Clean-Up Starts One Hour Prior to Closing.
A Shop Safety Card is required for all self help customers. To obtain a safety card you must attend the Safety Orientation Class which is available during regular shop hours. <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
CONFERENCE AND CATERING SERVICES
Bldg. 18402, 19th St. 706-791-6780/2205 | 706-793-7636 After Duty Hours: 706-339-0827 Real Weddings, Receptions and Special Events The question was popped; a special event is approaching. Now the real fun begins − planning your dream event. Don’t start drowning in deadlines or tripping over taffeta: Gordon’s Conference and Catering can provide you with professional planning tips and doable suggestions to ensure your special event is memorable. Here are just a few types of wedding receptions and special events that can be supported by our facilities… Lakeside Serenade at Pointes West or Leitner Lake This type of event captures the exotic charge of your wedding with a bouquet full of glorious white cymbidium orchids arranged with seashells. Earth-easy Nuptials If you and your honey are like two green peas in a pod, an eco-friendly event at Freedom Park makes perfect sense. Gordon Lakes Golf Course is also a perfect venue for outdoor special event. High-Brow Vows If a fancy, formal event is what makes your heart flutter, plan an upscale bash at one of Gordon’s Conference and Catering Grand Ballrooms. Little Lotta Event Having an intimate reception allows you to share your big day with the people you cherish most. Our facilities have the capability to provide you with small intimate area, but still with the elegance. Backyard Bliss A backyard event is a serene, laidback environment and ideal for outdoorsy types. Such an event allows you to be as formal or casual as you’d like: It’s about the décor you choose. On or off the installation, we can support this type of event with our professional catering staff.
No matter what type of event you are planning – wedding reception, retirement dinner, birthday bash, all day conference – seven days a week, on or off the installation, our staff and facility can support your event to the fullest. Lunch: Monday - Friday, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Summer Time Fresh: Enjoy our mid-summer luncheon specials for birthdays, retirements, business meetings. Our buffets feature bright colors and fresh flavors which enhance your luncheon choices and experience. Our menu choices are selected to keep you cool on the hottest days of the year. We offer an all-you-can-eat buffet with salad and dessert bar; 50 plus items, assortment of freshly prepared vegetables and starches, and a variety of meat selections (four or more) each day. Try our soft serve ice-cream! $9.20 with drink
Southern cooking at its best! Wednesday: Taco Salad $6.00 for Beef and $6.50 for Chicken Thursday: Everybody’s favorite − German Schnitzel with Steamed Cabbage and Home Fries! Friday: Hand Breaded Fish Day Hot and cold sandwich line open every day Try our grilled wrapped sandwiches! All sandwiches served on choice of deli white bread, whole wheat bread or Kaiser Bun with lettuce, tomato and onion and served with your choice of chips or French fries. Substitute Onion Rings for an additional charge. Get your discount card for lunch specials from the cashier.
Monday: Chef Specials
NOTE: To Go Orders welcome during lunch time. Prices for To Go Orders will vary depending on the weight.
Tuesday: Roast Turkey and Meatloaf −
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
www.fortgordon.com | 31
CONFERENCE AND CATERING SERVICES cont.
-Conference Center-
Lake Thurmond 6703 Washington Rd., Appling, GA 30802 706-541-1057 Looking for a unique venue for your wedding ceremony and reception? Pointes West Army Resort has just what you have been looking for!
Leitner Lake -Conference Center-
Located about 1.5 miles down Gibson Rd. from Range Rd. (Full map and directions on www.fortgordon.com) Catering & Conference Center Bookings: Janice Ivey janice.t.ivey.naf@mail.mil 706-791-6780/2205 Conference Center Sales: Jeffrey Starcher jeffrey.j.starcher.naf@mail.mil 706-840-8399 Located on the serene Leitner Lake and minutes from the heart of Fort Gordon, this breathtaking new facility offers multi-functional accommodations with seating for 100 guests. The spacious deck overlooks the water, an ideal setting for pre-function receptions. Adjustable lighting and a comfortable seating area ensures
32 | FYI august 2012
perfect ambience for every event. Tables and chairs are included with your room rental, and a nearly limitless array of room layouts can be arranged to suit your event’s every need. Leitner Lake Conference Center offers a caterer for your special events located on Fort Gordon. Gordon’s Conference & Catering Center’s most popular items are available at a reasonable cost. If you prefer to customize a menu, the catering staff will be happy to work with you. Guests at Leitner Lake Conference Center may select independent caterers for their events at an additional fee. We look forward to making your special event a memorable occasion. We appreciate the opportunity to serve you! Events • Weddings • Receptions • Rehearsal Dinners • Retreats • Team Building • Reunions • Themed Events • Luncheons • Showers • Casual Events • Conventions • Birthday Parties • Retirement Parties • Anniversary • Graduation Parties • Bar/Bat Mitzvahs • Business Meetings • Hail & Farewells • Company or Unit Gatherings <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
Our rustic lakefront conference center is the perfect place for an outdoor ceremony on the lawn surrounded by a breathtaking backdrop view of the lake. For the reception, move indoors for a charming and elegant atmosphere. Let Pointes West be a part of your special day and make your wedding unforgettable! To schedule an appointment to view our conference center, contact Jenna Parker at 706-541-1057. To book your reservations, contact Janice Ivey at 706-791-6780/2205. Pointes West Army Resort is available to authorized users only. Please see our website for more details: www.fortgordon.com A security deposit is required at the time of your reservation. <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
FORT GORDON & MWR DINING
Sandwiches, grill & snacks Bldg. 537, Range Rd. Weekday Hours: 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Weekend Hours: 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Phone: 706-791-2433 (ext. 4)
Pick-up, Delivery or Dine-In Pizza In Alternate Escapes Recreation Center Bldg. 25722, B St. Sun.-Thu.: 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Fri.-Sat.: 11 a.m.-12 midnight Phone: 706-863-6211
Lunch buffet, sandwiches, hot dishes & more Bldg. 18402, 19th St. Mon.-Fri.: 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Phone: 706-791-6780
TM
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 267 Avenue of the States 24 Hours, 7 Days a Week Phone: 706-798-3722
Grill, snacks, smoothies & coffee In Alternate Escapes Recreation Center Bldg. 25722, B St. Mon.-Thu.: 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Fri.-Sat.: 9 a.m.-11 p.m. Sun.: 9 a.m.-10 p.m. Phone: 706-791-0785
Specializing in coffee & smoothies In Signal Towers Bldg. 29808, 506 Chamberlain Ave. Mon.-Fri.: 7:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
JAVA EXPRESS
CafĂŠ
Snacks, coffee & smoothies Bldg. MWR-023, Chamberlain Ave. Mon.-Thu.: 7 a.m.-9 p.m. Fri.: 7 a.m.-11 p.m. Sat.: 9 a.m.-11 p.m. Sun.: 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Phone: 706-787-3803 Grill, burgers & more In Gordon Lanes Bowling Center Bldg. 33200, 3rd Ave. Sun.-Thu.: 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Fri.: 11 a.m.-1 a.m. Sat.: 9 a.m.-1 a.m. Phone: 706-771-6907 Chinese food At the Bus Station Bldg. 36000, 3rd Ave. Sun.-Thu.: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Fri.-Sat.: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Phone: 706-792-9774
Breakfast & lunch - daily specials In Darling Hall Bldg. 33720, Chamberlain Ave. Mon.-Fri.: 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Phone: 706-790-5505 Mexican food In The Courtyard Bldg. 36708, Brainard Ave. Mon.-Fri.: 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Sat.: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sun.: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Delivery Available (Mon.-Sat.: 5-9 p.m.) Phone: 706-910-1044
For more information on MWR dining facilities, pick up our monthly Dining Guide! Available at most MWR facilities
www.fortgordon.com | 33
SPORTS, RECREATION & LEISURE cont. Movies – Everyday, all day long. Choose from over 150 movies, including new releases! Wednesdays – ladies choice, chickflick and action movies.
Bldg. 36200, 36th St. 706-771-0089 Disney Military Salute Promotion Promotion has been extended to September 2012! Call Aladdin Travel for details. Hours of Operation: Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Closed on all major and government holidays.
Eat at the Java Escape – Hot wings, chicken tenders, club sandwich, BBQ and our HUGE fish sandwich with side and a drink! Now open to the entire Fort Gordon community! <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
FORT GORDON
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
Courtyard Outdoor Pool: Ring Hall, Bldg. 36710, Brainard Ave. 706-793-3550 Indoor Pool: Bldg. 21608, Brainard Ave. 706-791-3034 Bldg. 25722, B St. 706-791-0785 DJ – Every Friday night 7-10 p.m. Jukebox with all the new releases! Guitar Hero – Two guitars, microphone, three song disks. Play every day! X-box 360 – Many games to choose from, four controllers available, sign-up required. 10 Large screen TVs with satellite!
Spray Park and Pool at the Courtyard! Aquatics has undergone renovations – in fact; you may see some of the changes as you walk into the dining facilities at the Courtyard Recreation Center! One of the most significant changes is the new spray park! We finally have a facility for everyone and one that is worthy of the amazing families we have here at Fort Gordon! The new park has many features for children of all ages. Not only is there a toddler slide, but kids will love the helicopter (it spills out
water from the top!), a spray tree, tipping buckets, spray animals and more! The pool itself has undergone a bigger transformation. With a beach-front entry, it also has two one-meter diving boards and a colossal slide! For those with very little ones, we have a kid’s pool and it also has a beach front entrance. Sunbathing parents will enjoy a terraced section placed near enough to the water to watch their children. For non-sun bathers, two shaded structures and misters help you to cool off. And – as always – we will continue to have an air conditioned operations building with cable TV. Indoor Pool Hour-long swim lessons will be available throughout the summer, Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. The American Red Cross has created swim lessons for babies as young as six months. And – for the first time – this summer, we have expanded swim lessons to include adults during lunch time. For information or availability, please call the Indoor Pool at 706-791-3034 or e-mail us at Indoorpoolgordon@gmail.com. <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
Bldg. 15500 Corner of Lane Ave. and 15th St. 706-793-0003 <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
BOSS Headquarters Bldg. 19730, Barnes Ave. 706-791-3025 Single Service Member Day August, 15 12-4 p.m. @ Gym 6 FREE lunch provided! Block Party August 18 6 p.m.-1 a.m. @ barracks area near 35th SIG footprint Iron Unit Competition September 11 and 12
34 | FYI august 2012
SPORTS, RECREATION & LEISURE cont. Six Flags Trip & Night in Atlanta September 15-16 For more information, contact: ft.gordonbosspresident@yahoo.com 706-791-4040 Or visit: www.fortgordon.com/boss <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
Bldg. 32100, 3rd Ave. 706-793-8552 Upcoming Shows: Witness for the Prosecution, by Agatha Christie Show dates: Sept. 14, 15, 21, 22, 27, 28, 29 Only Agatha Christie could have conceived such a suspenseful thriller and then capped it with an uncanny triple flip ending. A young married man spends many evenings with a rich old woman. When she is found murdered, the naive young man is the chief suspect. The audience will be on the edge of their seats as Dame Agatha takes them on a journey through what has been called her “best mystery” ever. “A walloping success.” -Herald Tribune “Packs plenty of surprise in its cargo of suspense.” -Daily Mirror Harvey, by Mary Chase Show Dates: Nov. 9, 10, 16, 17, 30 & Dec. 1 When Elwood P. Dowd starts to introduce his imaginary friend, Harvey, a six-and-a-halffoot rabbit, to guests at a society party, his sister, Veta, has seen as much of his eccentric behavior as she can tolerate. She decides to have him committed to a sanitarium to spare her daughter, Myrtle Mae, and their family from future embarrassment. Problems arise, however, when Veta herself is mistakenly assumed to be on the verge of lunacy when she explains to doctors that years of living with Elwood’s hallucination have caused her to see Harvey also! This laugh-filled Pulitzer Prize winning comedy is an all-time classic! A celebrated success... Full of charm and hilarity, this play has become one of the most successful and popular plays ever produced on Broadway or off! Auditions: Sept. 24 & 25 at 7:30 p.m. Parts for 6 men, 6 women. For more shows and upcomming auditions, please visit www.fortgordon.com/theatre.php <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
Bldg. 00445, Carter Rd. 706-791-5078
Hunter Education Course August 15 (Online Review) The online review is 6 p.m.-8 p.m. at the EAMC 1st floor auditorium. Hunters wishing to hunt on Fort Gordon must have a valid Hunter Safety Card. The online training is available at www. beasafehunter.org. The course is free of charge and open to the public. Pre-registration recommended at www.georgiawildlife.com. <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
Recreational Shooting at Range 14 August 4, 11 and 25 Pistol and Rifle Range Hours are 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Wed. and Thu. and from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sat. listed above. $9 per person, $4 FGSC members and $2 for persons under the age of 16. Bass Tournament at Butler Reservoir August 12 Daylight-Noon Open to all ID cardholders and members of the public with a FG fishing license guest permit (available at registration). $20 per person, $10 FGSC members with a $5 Big Fish Pot, $100 awarded to first place; $50 to second place. Hunter Class 3-D Archery Tournament at Range 14 August 26 Hunting Class Tournament $20 per person. Over $1200 in Prizes! Free T-shirt to first 75 Participants.
getoutdoorsgordon@fortgordon.com 706-791-2556 Rent kayaks, canoes and bikes through Tactical Advantage Sportsman’s Complex at Range 14. (706) 791-5078. For more information on any Get Outdoors Gordon activity, call (706) 791-2556, or email getoutdoorsgordon@fortgordon.com. <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
www.fortgordon.com | 35
SPORTS, RECREATION & LEISURE cont. PGA of America. Now is the perfect time to become a member of Gordon Lakes Golf Club – great membership pricing is taking place now!
GORDON
FITNESS CENTER Bldg. 29607, Barnes Ave. 706-791-2647 Massage Therapy at Gordon Fitness Center and Gym 6 • Therapeutic Back Massage • Relaxation Massage • Wednesday Special • Spa Treatments Call for prices and times Hours of Operation: Mon.-Fri.: 5 a.m.-10 p.m. Sat.: 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Sun. & Holidays: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
Receive discounts on range balls, green fees, cart rides and merchandise! Also enjoy special offers on cart fees, tournament entry fees and making tee times. Take advantage of the latest technology with our new Visage GPS system: exact yardage to the pin; hole-by-hole playing tips and food and beverages orders. Hook a Soldier on Golf Gordon Lakes Golf Club is now in full swing with its Hook a Soldier on Golf program. Enjoy a free golf clinic every Saturday morning and receive a one-hour golf lesson on the driving range at Gordon Lakes, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. PGA instructor, Dallas Cooke, and Gordon Lakes staff members welcome all Active Duty Service Members, Retirees and their families for these complimentary golf lessons. Range balls and golf clubs are provided – just show up! Hook a Spouse on Golf Join us once a month for a free two-hour golf lesson on the driving range. Our PGA instructor, Dallas Cooke, and the Gordon Lakes staff will be on hand to help out any Military Spouses who are interested in the game of golf. Range balls and clubs are provided – just show up! Check with the Pro Shop for dates and times. Golf Lessons Take golf lessons from our PGA instructor, Dallas Cooke – Dallas has over ten years of instructional experience.
Individual Lesson:................................... $40 3-Series Lesson Package:........................ $100 5-Series Lesson Package:........................ $150 All lessons are 45 minutes. To sign up, call Dallas at 706-831-4654 Annual Ping/Regions Cup Invitational August 25 and 26 $115 per player − includes two rounds of golf with carts, range balls, practice rounds, food, tee gifts and prizes. Come try your skills against the best players in the CSRA! Call the Pro Shop to register or for more information. Gordon Lakes Senior Dogfight Tuesdays and Thursdays Must be 55 or older to be a member - valid handicap required. For more information, please visit the website: http://bellsouthpwp.net/l/a/larryoham12/ SeniorDogFight.htm Please look for signs and brochures posted at our new information center in the clubhouse for all information regarding tournaments and events.
Bogey’s Grill Hours Mon.-Fri.: 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Sat. and Sun.: 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Hours of Operation: Mon.-Thu.: 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Fri.-Sat.: 6:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Tee times: 706-791-2433 (ext. 2), 706-791-6854 or 706-791-5796 Weather permitting <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
Bldg. 537, Range Rd. www.gordonlakesgolf.com 706-791-2433 You can now make tee times online For tee times, email: • william.fumai.naf@mail.mil • dallas.m.cooke.naf@mail.mil • amanda.l.perry22.naf@mail.mil Tee times are taken four days in advance. Golf Tournaments The time to set up your 2012 summer and fall golf tournaments is now! Tournaments average 90 per year and Fridays and Saturdays go fast! Please contact Bill Fumai at (706) 791-2433 to set your event up today! Golf Memberships Join one of the best golf courses in the CSRA and the #1 Army golf course, as voted by the
36 | FYI august 2012
Junior Golf Clinics August 13-16 from 6-7 p.m. Cost: $10 per child, per day Golf instruction will include: • Driving • Iron Play • Chipping • Putting All kids will earn a certificate and prizes! Call the golf shop to sign up today, 706-791-2433
SPORTS, RECREATION & LEISURE cont. Trail Day Use Sun.-Sat., 8 a.m.-4 p.m. For privately owned horses. $10 per day, per horse with Coggins.
Bldg. 33200, 3rd Ave. 706-791-3446 This Month at Gordon Lanes! • Dollar Days Every Monday in August! 1-11 p.m. $1 per game, $1 shoe rental, $1 hotdogs, $1 sodas and $1 French fries. • Xtreme Cosmic Bowling Friday and Saturday 10 p.m.-1 a.m. • Bowlopolis Birthday Parties You bring the kids and cake, we do the rest! Call for more information. • Wild Wednesdays 5-11 p.m. $1.50 per game and $1.50 shoe rental.
Bldg. 509, N. Range Rd. 706-791-4864 Please Note: Fees will increase for Hilltop Activities, effective August 1. For new fees, please visit our website at www.fortgordon.com.
Family Fun Day August 18 Ages seven and up. Child pays full price and parent pays half price. Good for 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. trail rides.
Open riding Reservations are not required at the weekend. First come, first served. See our website for riding times. Weekday riding is available with 24-hour reservations. All riders need to arrive 40 minutes before ride time. Hilltop Riding Stable’s 2012 event calendars are out. Come by to pick one up. • 100% ID check with all equine activities • Closed shoes are required for all equine activities • This facility will close with the heat index at 101˚F, or at times of thunder and lightning. <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
Boarding $275 per month – spaces available
• Fall Leagues Now Forming See details on page 58. Plan your next bowling party at Gordon Lanes • Birthday Parties • Church Groups • Military Functions • Family Reunions If it’s NOT listed above, we probably can do that TOO. Groups from 10-150 Full line Snack Bar • Bar • Pro Shop Arcade Games 24-Number Bingo Great Entertainment! Win up to $4000! Kegler’s Bar Kegler’s has 18 TVs • Great Atmosphere Friendly Staff • Your Favorite Beverages If you haven’t been in Kegler’s Bar in a while, it’s time to come in with friends and unwind. Kegler’s Café Great food at a fair price! Hours of Operation: Mon.-Thu., 9 a.m.-11 p.m. Fri.-Sat., 9 a.m.-1 a.m. Sun., 11 a.m.-10 p.m. <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
www.fortgordon.com | 37
SPORTS, RECREATION & LEISURE cont.
•
Woodworth Library Catalog (GLIS) August 13, 15 and 30 Find Books, DVDs, Music CDs and more.
•
Kids Infobits August 7, 9 and 28 A database developed especially for beginning researchers in Kindergarten through Grade 5.
At Lake Thurmond P.O. Box 67, Appling, GA 30802 706-541-1057 Summer traditions Summer in the south is full of traditions; gathering with friends and family, creating priceless memories, laughter, and of course eating good BBQ and homemade ice cream. The Conference Center at Pointes West Army Resort has everything you need for your next family reunion, church retreat, or friendly gathering! Located on a beautiful point overlooking Clarks Hill Lake, our 4,000 square feet Conference Center seats up to 120 guests and is equipped with a full commercial kitchen. Two 55-inch flat screen TVs are positioned on the wall to watch that football game you just can’t miss. Enjoy our comfy cushioned furniture on the outdoor patio as you take in the relaxing views and peaceful atmosphere. Let Pointes West Army Resort become your tradition. <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
Bldg. 33500, Rice Rd. 706-791-7323 FREE REFERENCE/RESEARCH CLASSES To sign up, call 706-791-2449 or email David White at david.l.white42.naf@mail.mil
38 | FYI august 2012
Covers geography, current events, the arts, science, health, people, government, history, sports and more. •
Literature Resource Center August 1, 20 and 27 Your most current, comprehensive, and reliable online resource for research on literary topics, authors, and their works.
•
Opposing Viewpoints Resource Center August 2, 8 and 22 A premier online resource covering today’s hottest social issues, from Offshore Drilling to Climate Change, Health Care to Immigration.
•
•
Grzimek’s Animal Life August 14, 16 and 23 Covers more than 4,000 species including information on evolution, habitat, behavior and range. This site includes interactive range maps, photos, video, and audio for both school age and academic research. Tutor.Com August 6, 21 and 29 Learn about the library resource you can use to get help with all math, science, social studies and English subjects - from elementary to advanced levels. Tutor.com allows you to work anonymously in a one-to-one secure classroom.
Class times: 12-12:30 p.m. and 4-4.30 p.m. Book Around Town* August 22, 6 p.m. Let’s go restaurant hopping and read a book while we do it! Contact the Woodworth Consolidated Library to reserve your spot
and find out the meeting location! The book selection for August is Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs. Book Signing with Local Author, Charmain Zimmerman Brackett* August 6, 11 a.m.-1 p.m Local author Charmain Brackett will be available to answer questions about and sign copies of her new science fiction/fantasy book The Key of Elyon. Between the Lines: Families with Deployed Soldiers; Record a Classic Children’s Story and Receive a Free Book! Between the Lines is a FREE program that allows Fort Gordon Families with deployed Soldiers to record children or parent(s) reading favorite children’s books. The recorded DVD and selected book will be given to participating families as a gift to share the joy of learning, stay in-touch during long deployments, and record precious memories. On-going via appointment: while supplies last! To sign up, call (706) 791-2449, visit the Reference Desk, or email susanna.r.joyner. naf@mail.mil. Music in the Library Enjoy music in the library and learn more about different genres and points of interest in history. Check out books, CDs, or downloads for all your favorites! This month the library will feature reggae! eBooks, eAudiobooks, eMovies and eMusic Download your favorites free by registering with your I.D. card at the library, and then create a My Account at: http://mylibraryus. fmwr.net/search~S25 Login: to your My Account and select free downloads Find event flyers, online catalog, how-to guides, and more at the Library’s website: gordon.army. mil/library
*To sign up or for more information, call (706) 791-2449 or email Jessica Thompson at jessica.e.thompson.naf@mail.mil <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
OTHER SERVICES Family and MWR ADMINISTRATION:
Miscellaneous:
...............................................................................
...............................................................................
Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (DFMWR) Rm. 382, Bldg. 33720 Chamberlain Ave. 706-791-4140
Army Volunteer Corps Rm. 169, Bldg. 33720 Chamberlain Ave. 706-791-3880
...............................................................................
FYI Advertising Sales Rm. 337, Bldg. 33720 Chamberlain Ave. 706-791-3912 ...............................................................................
FYI Creative Director 706-791-3218 ...............................................................................
FYI Editorial 706-791-6234 ...............................................................................
For a complete list of DFMWR key personnel, visit www.fortgordon.com/staff.php
...............................................................................
Commissary Bldg. 37200, 3rd Ave. By-Pass 706-791-3718
GET CONNECTED!
...............................................................................
Fort Gordon Bus Company Bldg. 36200, 36th St. 706-793-0026 ...............................................................................
Texting
Fort Gordon Housing Office 706-791-5116/7067/9658
Information about upcoming events are available through our free and easy texting service.
...............................................................................
Fort Gordon Federal Credit Union Bldg. 36305, Avenue of the States 706-793-0012
Text “MWR” to 70720 to subscribe!
...............................................................................
leisure services: ...............................................................................
Carlson Wagonlit Travel – Official Travel Rm. 117, Bldg. 33720 Chamberlain Ave. 706-798-0990
Sports & Fitness services: ...............................................................................
Courtyard Outdoor Pool Ring Hall, Bldg. 36710 Brainard Ave. 706-791-3550 ...............................................................................
Gym #3 Bldg. 25510, Brainard Ave. 706-791-2864
...............................................................................
Gym #5 Bldg. 25713, 27th St. 706-791-7370
...............................................................................
ID Card Section/DEERS Office Appointments available by phone Darling Hall, Bldg. 33720 www.gordon.army.mil/MPD/deers.htm 706- 791-1927/1930 ...............................................................................
FYI Magazine:
www.facebook.com/FYIMagazine
...............................................................................
Fort Gordon Garrison Town Hall Meetings:
NAF Civilian Personnel Office 706-791-6382 ...............................................................................
Office of the Staff Judge Advocate 706-791-3148
www.facebook.com/pages/Fort-GordonGarrison/153690448019215
...............................................................................
Post Information 706-791-0110 ...............................................................................
Public Affairs Office (PAO) Bldg. 29801, Nelson Hall, 520 Chamberlain Ave. 706-791-7003 ...............................................................................
PX Bldg. 38200 706-793-7171
...............................................................................
...............................................................................
Indoor Swimming Pool Bldg. 21608, Brainard Ave. 706-791-3034
Signal Museum Signal Towers, Bldg. 29808 Chamberlain Ave. 706-791-3856
Sports, Fitness and Aquatics Bldg. 29719, Barnes Ave. 706-791-1142
www.facebook.com/FortGordonMWR
Military Police Station 706-791-4380/4537
Gym #6 – Fitness Center Bldg. 21713, 21st St. 706-791-2947
...............................................................................
Fort Gordon MWR:
...............................................................................
Veterinary Services Bldg. 500, Range Rd. 706-787-7375/3815
www.fortgordon.com | 39
m o d e r n
i m p a c t :
Native Americans of Today Arial Marsh, MWR Staff Writer
According to the 2010 Census, there are 5.2 million American Indians and Alaska Natives in the United States, making up 1.7% of our population, with 565 federally-recognized tribes, the biggest of which are the Cherokee, Navajo, and Choctaw Nations.
In more recent history, President George H. W. Bush approved a joint resolution designating November 1990 “National American Indian Heritage Month.” Similar proclamations, under variants on the name, have been issued yearly since 1994.
In honor of them, and the tremendous heritage they carry, the United States partakes in Native American History Month every November. This celebration, originally called “American Indian Day,” was first proposed by Dr. Arthur C. Parker in the early 1900’s. Dr. Parker was a Seneca Indian and director of the Museum of Arts and Science in Rochester, N.Y. He persuaded the Boy Scouts of America to set aside a day for the “First Americans” and this was done for nearly three years.
But what does this have to do with you, you wonder? Unknown to most, some of the most influential, heroic, and outstanding people in modern history can trace their roots to Native American beginnings. Even I am part Cherokee. The philosopher George Santayana once said “To know your future, you must know your past,” and November is rightfully dedicated to the origins of our Nation, the Native Americans, and the impact they have had on society from our earliest days to the present. Native Americans’ and their culture goes far beyond the History books, right into your i-Pod, TV show, sports team, and government representative, as proven by these notorious figures.
In 1915, the Congress of the American Indian Association meeting in Lawrence, KS, formally approved a plan concerning American Indian Day. Rev. Sherman Coolidge, an Arapahoe and president of the association, issued a proclamation on September 28, 1915, which declared the second Saturday of each May as an American Indian Day and contained the first formal appeal for recognition of Indians as citizens.
40 | FYI august 2012
ELIZABETH MARIE TALL CHIEF: Founded the Chicago City Ballet. JIM THORPE (Sac and Fox): Winner of Olympic Gold Medals in the
decathlon. He has been voted the best American athlete of the first half of the 20th century. The first president of The National Football League. WILL RODGERS (Cherokee): Perhaps the best known American humorist of the first one half of this century. JOSEPH OKLAHOMBI (Choctaw): Winner of the French medal, Croix de Guerre in WW I. Private Oklahombi, while under machine gun, mortar and poison gas attack, crossed 210 yards of barbed wire traps and mine fields. He then single-handedly overpowered a machine-gun nest, captured 171 German soldiers, and held his position and prisoners for four days before being relieved. FRANCIS LEQUIER (Ojibwa): WWI hero. After his three comrades were killed attacking a German machine gun nest, he managed to overpower the Germans single handedly, killing several and capturing the rest. Lequier was shot 11 times during the incident.
JOE YOUNG HAWK (Arikara): Captured by five German soldiers in WWI he turned on his German captors, killed three with his bare hands and captured the other two. Shot through both legs, he marched his prisoners back through enemy territory to Allied lines.
FLOYD (RED CROW) WESTERMAN (Santee Dakota): Songwriter, singer, speaker, activist, actor. Westerman starred in “Dances with Wolves,” and “Clearcut,” and acted in roles in “Dharma and Greg,” “Walker Texas Ranger,” “The X Files,” and numerous other T.V. roles.
JOHN HERRINGTON (Chickasaw): America’s first Native astronaut.
MITCHELL RED CLOUD (Ho-Chunk): This resident of Black River Falls, Wisconsin, was awarded the Medal of Honor for giving of his life on Nov. 5th, 1950, in the Korean conflict. In July of 1999, the United States Navy named a transport ship in his honor.
LITEFOOT (Cherokee): Native American Rap star and movie actor. He starred in the movie “Indian in the Cupboard.”
NOTAH BEGAY (Navajo): Professional golfer on the PGA tour. At the age of 24, in 1998 he became only the third golfer in the history of the PGA tour to shoot a 59.
CHARLES D. CURTIS (Kansa/Kaw/Osage): Served in the House of Representatives for 14 years. The first Native American elected to the U.S. Senate. Curtis served in the Senate for 20 years, five years as majority leader. He was the author of the Indian Citizenship Act of 1924 and Vice President of the United States of America during the Herbert Hoover administration. ELVIS PRESLEY (Cherokee descent): The most influential rock and roll star in history. WAYNE NEWTON (Choctaw descent): Singer and actor. One of Las Vegas’ best known entertainers. BEN NIGHTHORSE CAMPBELL (Northern Cheyenne): U.S. Senator from Colorado.
VAL KILMER (Cherokee descent): Star of “Batman Forever” and actor in other films such as “Wyatt Earp,” “ Island of Doctor Moreau,” “ Heat,” “Thunderheart,” “The Ghost and the Darkness,” and “The Saint.” GRAHAM GREENE (Oneida): Actor: starred in roles in the movies, “Dances with Wolves,” “Clearcut,” “Thunderheart,” “Die-hard with a Vengeance,” “The Education of Little Tree,” and “Ishi.” JOHNNY DEPP (Cherokee descent): Actor and film star in movies such as “Edward Scissor Hands,” “Pirates of the Caribbean,” and most recently, “Dark Shadows.” TIGER WOODS (1/16 Native Blood): Youngest man ever to win the Masters Golf Tournament. COLIN POWELL (Arawak Descent): Commander-in-Chief of U.S. Military forces in the Gulf War.
SHANIA TWAIN: Popular female pop/country star. Her taken name of Shania means in the language of the Ojibwa people, “I am on my way.”
JOE & ANNIE HENRY (Tróndëk Hwëch): Once recognized in the Guinness Book of World Records for holding the distinction of being the world’s longest living married couple. They celebrated their 79th wedding anniversary in the summer of 2000. They have over 100 children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. WINONA LADUKE: (Ojibwe): Vice Presidential candidate for President of the United States in 1996 and the year 2000 on the Green Party ticket. Her running mate for President was Ralph Nader. For information on Fort Gordon’s observances of Native American Heritage Month in November, check out the CIB slides available online at www.gordon.army.mil.
www.fortgordon.com | 41
Happ Houry 4-7 p .m. Proudly serving Fort Gordon!
Margarita Monday $.99 Kids Meal Tuesday (With Adult Meal)
Public Safety Appreciation Wednesday (All uniform Police, Fire, and Rescue 10% off. Dine-in Only)
Karaoke Friday & Saturday, 7 p.m.-until
+ NOW INTRODUCING OUR AUTHENTIC MEXICAN TACOS Virria, Lengua (tongue) Al Pastor and More! + NEW SEAFOOD DISHES Business Hours: Sunday-Thursday: 11-9 p.m. • Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Delivery Available: Monday-Saturday: 5-9 p.m.
at the Courtyard • Brainard Avenue • 706 910-1044
42 | FYI august 2012
Buy 2 combos and 2 beverages and receive a FREE cheese dip with this coupon ($3.25 value)
Music
@ The Library
Celebrate the art of music with the library! Each month, we will spotlight and display different music genres. Come listen to some mood-enhancing tunes, check out CDs, books, and more featuring your favorite musicians!
reggae
Island favorites and Reggae are a WONDERFUL way to cap off your summer and inspire everyone to mosey into the fall with a relaxed and ready vibe. So chill out and don’t worry about a thing, cause every little thing is gonna be all right! “One good thing about music, when it hits you, you feel no pain.” – Bob Marley Stop by the library to check out any of your favorites on CD and set up a Freegal account to easily Download songs (up to 3 per week) to your Smartphone. (FREEgal – that’s right! Sing, sing, sing along with your favorite tunes for FREE through the Army Library program!)
AUTO REPAIRS DIAGNOSTICS OIL/FILTER/LUBE SERVICES BG SERVICES SELF HELP* AND MORE *A shop safety card is required for all self-help customers. To obtain a shop safety card you must watch the Safety Orientation video.
Building 33500, Rice Rd. | 706-791-7323
Building 29300, 30th Street (706) 791-2390 www.fortgordon.com
www.fortgordon.com | 43
Taking Care of our Service Members Molly Swift, Editor & Arial Marsh, MWR Staff Writer
While you are away, life will go on…but it won’t be the same. There will be those things you miss; birthdays celebrated in your absence; some medical emergency that usually would have gone a little bit more smoothly with your help. But, overall, it is simply your presence that is missed. What do we do while you are deployed? We continue to live life - we take the dogs out and buy the groceries; we arrange the parties and take care of bills. We find ways to get around the gaping hole left where you once were – mostly because we know we will see you again. In the meantime…to live without a deployed Service Member isn’t easy – but the FYI wants to help make it easier. This feature is full of inspiration for the friends and families of deployed Service Members. Can you stay busy doing your own thing while you and your loved one are apart? Of course you can, but there are ways to stay busy that also provide fulfillment, enjoyment and relaxation. And maybe even a paycheck! To those who have faced the trials of deployment, be it on the battle field or the home front, and those who serve on our own soil, the many programs and organizations that offer support and aid to all forms of Military Service Members were lifesaving. From custom care packages to Christmas gift card programs, there is no lack of love for the Military. All it takes to get in on these amazing benefits is knowledge.
44 | FYI august 2012
For everyone and anyone:
Whether you are deployed or stationed overseas, there are multiple organizations, both Military funded and civilian operated, that offer emotional and physical support. Some of these include: Give to the Troops –––––––––––––––––––– Anyone can donate funds, send in supplies, and write letters for care packages to our loved ones overseas. Troops can submit request forms for care packages and specific needs online through their website, give2thetroops.org. Address: Give2TheTroops, Inc. 1275 Cromwell Avenue, Shunpike Business Center, #E-5 Rocky Hill, CT 06067 Phone: (888) 876-6775 Email: info@Give2TheTroops.org Military Food Express ––––––––––––––––– Your very own, personalized online grocery store! Military Food Express gives Service Members or their families the opportunity to order from an inventory of over 3,300 brand name grocery items, all able to be shipped wherever you choose. Web: militaryfoodex.com/catalog/ Address: Military Food Express 556 Route 17, North Suite 7250 Paramus, NJ 07652 Phone: (877) 431-2812 ex. 101 Soldiers’ Angels –––––––––––––––––––––– Volunteers have sent hundreds of thousands of care packages and letters to “adopted” deployed service members, and have supplied over 25,000 “First Response Backpacks” directly to Combat Support Hospitals in Iraq and Afghanistan and the major military hospital in Germany. Soldiers Angels have partnered with the Department of Defense to provide voice-controlled/adaptive laptops to over 6,000 severely-wounded Service Members and gave Level III KEVLAR armored blankets to soldiers early in the Iraq war. They provide emergency aid to military families in need, and flights to soldiers on leave or in emergencies. To donate or request assistance, Web: (soldiersangels.org) 1792 E Washington Blvd. Pasadena, CA 91104 Phone: (626) 529-5114 Address: Soldiers’ Angels
For the family forces: Many companies and organizations are keenly aware of the sacrifices our Military makes. In an effort to thank not only our Military, but also its families, they sponsor free events, giveaways, and even vacations as a thank you for all of our service. These include, but are not limited to: Sears ‘Heroes at Home’ –––––––––––––––– Sears offers Military Families unprecedented aid during the Christmas season through their online ‘wish list’ program. Families of active duty Service Members can register from September 3 to receive a gift card to go towards any Sears purchase. Initial registration closes once 20,000 forms have been submitted. Gift cards are normally given no later than December 2. For more information, go to sears.com/shc/s/ dap_10153_12605_DAP_HAH+FAQ. Here’s to the Heroes –––––––––––––––––– Anheuser-Busch offers active duty, activated or drilling reservist, or National Guardsman free admission for themselves and three direct dependants for SeaWorld Orlando, San Diego, or San Antonio, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay or Williamsburg, Sesame Place, Water Country USA, and Adventure Island. (herosalute.com) USO ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Offering just about every service one might imagine, the USO caters to both Service Members and their families through programs like Care Packages, Holiday Boxes, morale centers, family support groups, MEGS – Mobile Entertainment Gaming Systems that can be shipped to troops anywhere, and more. (uso.org)
For the ones we call neighbors: Fort Gordon offers its community multiple support systems, recreational activities, social venues, and so on. For families there are swimming pools, play parks, dinner theaters, horseback riding, Pointes West Army Resort, CYSS summer field trips and youth programs, and more. Some extras are things like: Alternate Escapes –––––––––––––––––––– This state of the art hang out is now open to everyone. They offer the latest arcade games, 20 multi-player online games, Wi-Fi, a Cyber Café (open 80 hours a week!), pool tables, and four TV viewing areas – as well as a giant projection screen show casing the latest game or summer block buster. An automated ‘Pro Shop’ allows a patron to purchase digital music players, game platforms, headphones, prepaid cell phones, E-books, memory cards, digital cameras and Wi-Fi cards for laptops. Located at B Street, Building 25722. (706) 791-8489
BOSS –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– On top of taking an active role in community projects and hosting events on Fort Gordon − such as the recent Car, Truck, and Bike Show and Combative Tournament in July − BOSS also offers single service members a place of refuge. The BOSS main building, open 7 days a week, has pool tables, air hockey, ping pong and/or darts, DirecTV and Wi-Fi, all at no cost. Located at Bldg. 19730, Barnes Avenue & 19th Street. (706) 791-2556. (fortgordon. com/boss/default.htm) Get Outdoors Gordon! –––––––––––––––– Open to all authorized users, Get Outdoors Gordon offers patrons the chance to partake in local outdoor recreational activities such as whitewater rafting, hiking, zip lining, mountain biking and more – all at a reasonable price. Equipment and transportation are usually included in these activities! To learn about upcoming trips, call (706) 791-2556 or email getoutdoorsgordon@fortgordon.com. Morale Call ––––––––––––––––––––––––– Once a month, soldiers, MWR staff, and family members gather at Gordon’s Conference and Catering for a night of free food, drinks, and entertainment. This normally takes place the second Wednesday of each month so be sure to keep an eye on the Fort Gordon MWR facebook page for this information and more. Annual Family Readiness Symposium –––– August 22, 8:45 a.m.-2:30 p.m. at Gordon’s Conference and Catering. This event is open to all Commanders, First Sergeants, Family Readiness Liaisons, Advisors, FRG Leaders and volunteers and anyone who is interested in Family Readiness Groups! The design of this year’s conference is conversational – there will be a couple of introductory briefings where you can ask questions but the concept is totally interactive. ACS will present facilitators from other Army installations, the facilitators will attend and share what works well at their installation. All Services and Components are invited to attend. This is your time to learn, share and network with others. Don’t miss this opportunity to make your FRG the best it can be. For registration, go to www.gordon.army.mil/acs. Register for FREE Childcare with CYSS, (706) 791-1305.
www.fortgordon.com | 45
Artsy Fun in the Summer Sun! The kids are out of school – the house is full – and you are left to barricade yourself in the bathroom for a minute of respite. Don’t feel bad. Lots of parents face this dilemma, but there are much more fun (and less stressful!) ways to unwind and stir up your creative and lighthearted side than sneaking away for an hour of Reddit. Lavishly Posh Boutique offers both a one of a kind, unique shopping experience, and a place for everyone, including Army spouses, to show case your own neat crafts and works of art. The founder, Michelle Suyeyoshi, is a budding businesswoman, former Military Child, and current Army Spouse. In 2011, she was inspired to create a venue for her and other Military spouses to “develop relationships and expand their passions.” Now, that has come to pass. With services ranging from baby showers and tea time to art classes and wedding planning, Lavishly Posh is the bedazzled jewel of Grovetown. “The long term goal is to create loving relationships with the community and other spouses, give back, and give others a chance to showcase their talents and find their purpose.” Michelle said, as we sat in the quaint ‘tea room’ she offers patrons to rent out for whatever event they choose. Misty Cooper, a 21 year Army Spouse, handles the baby shower side of things. When asked about her impression of Lavishly Posh and its mission, all she had to offer was praises. “She (Michelle) is doing this for the Military community – that’s what’s dear to my heart. It is really a blessing to have the opportunity to come here, do what I love, and meet so many others who share similar passions. It is amazing.” To her left sat Rachel Wyllie, a Military Spouse and mother of several young children, is one of her consigners and self-proclaimed “Bow Fairy.” Her specialty: custom hair-bows, which she consigns at Lavishly Posh, along with countless other adorable knick-knacks, decorative pieces, one of a kind gifts, cards, candles, and more. “It was just a hobby at first,” she
46 | FYI august 2012
began, telling of her brief stints at flea markets to market her craft, “but then I met Michelle and she gave me the chance to bring my passion to the public. She brings everyone together.” Michelle just smiled, and Molly and I couldn’t agree more. Instantly glamorized at the fact they host “proper tea time” every Tuesday afternoon, we were smitten by the atmosphere, the merchandize, and most importantly, the sense that anyone is welcome here. Lavishly Posh not only offers the opportunity to host classes to share your passion with others, and make a profit while doing it, but also provides a showcase for all the unique and individual tastes of its consigners, bringing it all together with a bit of glitter, some lace, and a smile. To inquire about consigning your own works, please email Michelle at consign@lavishlyposh.com. To host a class, classes@lavishlyposh.com.
Dinner with the Smileys When their Dad left for a yearlong military deployment, a community stepped in to fill his spot at the family dinner table.*
Every once in a while, I read a news story that just makes my eyes tear up while I can’t help but grin. When I first read about Sarah Smiley’s creative response to her husband’s deployment, my response was just that – warmly emotional – because it was so incredibly thoughtful, touching and full of love. You see, Sarah’s a Navy wife and her husband, Dustin, left the week before Christmas for a yearlong deployment. A writer and mother of three – Ford, Owen and Lindell – Sarah has experienced this separation before, but that was prior to the youngest being born and the older two were too young to notice the absence as greatly as it is noticed these days. That absence grows deepest at dinner times, “I knew from past deployments that dinner time is the worst,” she said. “It’s lonely because you don’t have all of your family. I remember those being sad times.” Her response was to fill Dustin’s empty chair each week with a guest of her children’s choosing − and so Dinner with the Smileys was born. The first guest was Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine), invited by Ford; the Senator brought brownies, and the dinner – as with all subsequent dinners – was captured by a photographer and posted online. From week two on, Maine-based Andrea Hand Photography has been present to snap the event. The photographs of the dinners are made available via Facebook and
are an amazingly uplifting documentation of this family’s experience of separation. Sarah, a syndicated columnist, has eloquently described her experience of military life on Facebook and on her website, www. sarahsmiley.com; the site also contains a section on dealing with deployments. Arguably the most important dinner guest to date has been Dustin himself – home on R & R for two weeks – which was a massive surprise to the children, who were kept in the dark. You can see for yourself (on Facebook) the reactions of the kids as they see their father walking toward the house – Sarah was behind Dustin with a camera recording the looks of sheer delight as the boys ran to their father to hug him for the first time in more than six months. In creating this tradition, the Smileys have not only helped themselves to get through a long deployment, but their story is encouraging and supporting others that find themselves in the same situation. It is creative and unusual − yes − yet extremely normal at the same time. Above all, the Smileys are a true testament to the strength of military families. (*Tagline from Dinner with the Smileys on Facebook)
www.fortgordon.com | 47
48 | FYI august 2012
W r i t i n g
Charmain Brackett, Author
immediately, my mind conjures up images of a non-specific medieval time frame and English countryside, but I’ll let you in on my secret, my Southern roots show up in the book. by Charmain Brackett
If you are new to Fort Gordon, let me welcome you to Georgia, where the tea is sweet and cold, and there is such a thing as Southern hospitality. I am a fifth-generation Augustan, and I love many things about my Southern roots, especially the fine tradition of Southern storytelling. According to the Georgia Encyclopedia, “One of the distinguishing features of Southern culture is an ‘oratorical aesthetic.’ Speech artistry, expressed through delivery as well as content, can still be heard in Georgians’ political and legal oratory, preaching, and conversation.” Twentieth century Southern writers took this oral tradition and transposed it onto paper. Great authors such as William Faulkner, Harper Lee, Carson McCullers, Margaret Mitchell and Kate Chopin emerged with tales of Southern life, families and relationships. However, at the heart of the South, there remains the oral tradition. I often find myself telling stories even when I don’t necessarily mean to. My husband’s question of what I bought at the grocery store is often answered with who I saw at the grocery store, with a sideline of a recipe I watched someone create on the Food Network and the fact that our daughter thought the bagboy was cute. I think I come by this naturally – fifthgeneration Augustan and all. I’ve heard my father’s mother could spin some wild yarns, but he died before I was born so I never had the chance to hear them. The stories I do remember came from balmy southern nights in northern Florida as my grandmother sat outside with her
two brothers and a sister-in-law, and they told tales of days gone by. I was young on those visits, maybe 8, 9 and 10 years-old, and the lure of air-conditioning and lack of mosquitoes often brought me inside while they spent the evening hours talking about the people they’d known and the family members I never knew. Now, I wish I had paid more attention.
I’ve gotten a lot of good feedback from the book. People from the ages of 17 to 77 tell me they can’t put it down. To all my Fort Gordon friends that I met while writing for The Signal, stop by to see me at the Woodworth Consolidated Library from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on August 6. I will be signing copies of my book.
I think the storyteller who impacted me the most is my mother. I have rich vignettes of her growing up in south Richmond County, where she had a pet pony and baboon, and my grandfather taught her how to drive by sitting up on the front porch and allowing her to take the car up and down the dirt road – when she was only 12. The storyteller in me tried to get out for many years, but in a different way. I’ve spent 24 years in journalism. In addition to writing for The Augusta Chronicle, I wrote for Fort Gordon’s The Signal newspaper for nearly 12 years, earning a second place at the Department of Army level and numerous IMCOM level spots in the Keith L. Ware journalism competition. Earlier this year, the creative storyteller won out as I completed my first novel, which was published on June 1. It’s called The Key of Elyon. It’s probably best classified as science fiction and action-adventure. It’s about a young boy who travels through a portal into another realm and meets a king who gives him a mysterious key. When I read a description like that, www.fortgordon.com | 49
OpEn 7 DAYs A WEEk
Dine with us... Lunch buffet Mon.-Fri. • 11 a.m.-2 p.m. $7.49 – All You Can Eat Building 36000, 3rd Avenue (at the Bus Travel Center) 706-792-9774/9775 706-792-9776 FAX 50 | FYI august 2012
Get out! get active! With MWR’s upcoming outdoor activities It’s the perfect time to start getting active - while the weather might not be cooling down just yet, it’s getting there. And besides, we need to embrace the humidity and ignore the blazing sun, or we’d never do anything - right? So here’s a selection of things to enjoy and how you can find them on Fort Gordon. See you at the range!
CYSS Youth Sports/ Skies unlimited CYSS Central Registration, Bldg. 28320, Lane Ave. 706-791-4722 (CYSS Registration) 706-791-5104 (Program Information) Fort Gordon SKIESUnlimited Instructional Programs* The name SKIESUnlimited combines the acronym for “Schools of Knowledge, Inspiration, Exploration & Skills” with the word “Unlimited” for the unlimited learning possibilities this exciting initiative offers Army children and youth. SKIESUnlimited provides a four-school framework: • School of Academic Skills, Mentoring & Intervention • School of Arts, Recreation & Leisure • School of Life Skills, Citizenship & Leadership • School of Sports, Fitness & Health SKIESUnlimited encompasses instructional programs for children and youth from infancy to adolescence. The skills acquired through the programs are priceless – both in terms of vocation and motivation. Children are exposed to a wide range of new skills, cultures and countless opportunities to interact with other children. Fort Gordon’s SKIES programs include Martial Arts; Spanish; Drum Circles and more! For up to date information, check out www.fortgordon.com! Interested in being a volunteer coach? You can receive the Coach’s Discount for participating as a volunteer coach! *Open to dependents of Active-Duty, Retired, DoD Civilians and Contractors. Must be CYSS eligible to register – registration is free! Call (706) 791-4722 for registration information.
www.fortgordon.com | 51
Outdoor Recreation Bldg. 00445, Carter Rd. 706-791-5078
The Tactical Advantage Sportsman’s Complex is home to some of the nicest people you’ll meet on Fort Gordon! But, that’s not all they can boast – the MWR Outdoor Recreation program also provides fabulous activities and programs, such as the Youth Pheasant Hunt, BMG Machine Gun “Fun Shoot” and a Sporting Clays Tournament. Never held a firearm in your life? Trust me, it’s okay - the staff at TASC will take care of you! Call and ask about their firearm rental, instruction and long-distance ranges. Want to purchase a firearm? They can help with that too. And this place isn’t just for adults – the TASC folk are certainly kid-friendly so be sure to enquire about fishing and the various lakes available for hiking, camping and more! Go online to see an annual list of events for Shooting, Fishing, Archery and more! www.fortgordon.com under “Sports and Recreation”.
POINTES WEST ARMY RESORT Lake Thurmond 6703 Washington Rd. Appling, GA 706-541-1057 Pointes West offers a variety of activities for all ages and abilities. For those of us who like to keep our feet on the ground, we can side-step the stunning, state-of-the-art Confidence Course and Zip Lines and hike through the many walking trails in search of white sandy beaches on the beautiful lake shoreline. Of course, if you aren’t such a wuss (as I willingly admit to being), challenge yourself and others with a feat of teamwork and shimmy up steps, platforms and wire and have fun leaving the perfectly good ground far, far below you while you hold onto a cable. The Confidence Course is the perfect teambuilding exercise - as long as your team member doesn’t have a healthy fear of heights. Yes, you can do it! Speaking of leaving the ground - Pointes West offers parasailing! Ride by yourself or tandem and enjoy the breathtaking views of Clark’s Hill as you soar over the water. Enjoy a picnic at one of the site’s 200 picnic sites, or swim in the lake before relaxing in one of the Resort’s many log cabins or cottages. Want to be primitive? You can at Pointes West; a selection of camping options is available to you, ranging from little else other than a water hook-up to the full-hook-up RV sites. Catch your breakfast in the morning and recapture your youth at one of the resort’s playgrounds. It’s peaceful, safe fun and like being at the beach without the long drive! 52 | FYI august 2012
Hilltop Riding Stables Bldg. 509, N. Range Rd. 706-791-4864
Hilltop Riding Stable is an award-winning facility that offers miles of riding trails in addition to lessons, daily trail rides, guided trail rides, boarding and more! Demonstrating MWR’s focus on its patrons, Hilltop now also provides Special Assistance Riding for recreational purposes. This service is open to the public, but reservations are required. A special tack can be made available at the rider’s expense and a licensed therapist may accompany the guests and provide staff with instructions. Among the more popular programs, Hilltop also provides horse camps for children ages 7-13. At the camps kid learn to ride and care for horses. It’s a lot of fun and a great learning experience! Reservations are required and the camps are open to the public. For an annual list of upcoming camp dates as well as other services provided, visit Hilltop online at www.fortgordon.com under “Sports and Recreation”.
www.fortgordon.com | 53
54 | FYI august 2012
fromthe bookshelf Susanna Joyner, Director, Woodworth Consolidated Library
Book: The Power of Now, 2004, Author: Eckhart Tolle “Those who have not found their true wealth, which is the radiant joy of Being and the deep, unshakable peace that comes with it, are beggars, even if they have great material wealth. They are looking outside for scraps of pleasure or fulfillment, for validation, for security, or love, while they have a treasure within that not only includes all those things, but is infinitely greater than anything the world can offer.” Are you looking for a little inner peace? A release from constant pressure, stress and all the other drama and suffering that permeate life? Start YOUR liberation today with this fascinating work by Eckhart Tolle. Enjoy The Power of Now for check-out at the Library, or for free download to your Kindle, Nook, or other electronic device. Download free by registering with your I.D. card at the library then create a My Account at: http://mylibraryus.fmwr.net/search~S25. Login to your My Account and select:
Movies: A huge variety of popular titles! Available for FREE check-out! Did you know in addition to a tremendous and exceptional variety of non-fiction and educational DVD titles; the Library also has an extensive collection of popular, current, children’s, and classic movies? Save money and enjoy FANTASTIC films for free check-out. Stop by the library anytime to register with your DOD ID or CAC card, and select from our great inventory. From award-winners to the most recent family favorite, we have it for you!
Books, movies, CDs and more are available for free check-out to Service Members & DOD Civilians at Woodworth Consolidated Library, 549 Rice Road, Building 33500, Fort Gordon, GA 30905 For more information, call: (706) 791-7323 or visit our website at www.gordon.army.mil/library
Anniversaries • Birthdays • Special Occasions • Any Occasion!
The Bloom Closet Florist www.TheBloomCloset.com 706.364.2588
4460 Columbia Road, Suite 12 Martinez, GA 30907 Check out our website for weekly specials!
Find us on www.fortgordon.com | 55
Provide your feedback by visiting our homepage at www.gordon.army.mil. Look for the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Gordon BE HEARD!â&#x20AC;? logo then click on the ICE Customer Feedback link. Or better still, just code it! Now you can go directly to the ICE Customer Feedback page via smart phone and enter your comments directly!
56 | FYI august 2012
techninja Baby Gadgets - (from ThinkGeek.com) Nathan Hoeller, Creative Director
In dedication of the birth of my new baby girl, born July 5th, we’re going to check out some baby/kid-themed tech items!
Withings Smart Baby Monitor for iPhone - $299.99 www.thinkgeek.com/geek-kids/newborn-infant/ed6a
Hide & Seek Plush Monkey - $34.95 www.thinkgeek.com/geek-kids/1-3-years/e836
Baby monitors are so last century. This little gadget will give you the ease of knowing your child is safe by viewing them through the built in camera, reading the temperature and humidity settings for the room, and of course, hearing sounds. It can even send you text alerts when something’s happening, so you can sit back and enjoy that movie during nap time.
This is the perfect kid toy, especially if you’re like me and you’ve run out of places large enough to hide an adult-sized hide & seeker. With the accompanying wand in hand, your child will search the house for this sneaky little monkey. As the wand gets within range of the money, it’ll start crying “Oo Oo Aa Aa!” which I’m assuming is monkeytalk for “You’re getting warmer.”
City Lights Globe - $54.99 www.thinkgeek.com/geek-kids/7-13-years/eac2 Baby Bidou MP3 Player - $59.99 www.thinkgeek.com/geek-kids/newborn-infant/e764 Who says six months is too soon for an MP3 player? Face it, your child is growing up in a tech-society and they’ll need to learn it eventually. This teddy bear shaped MP3 player is durable, washable, and it holds up to 32 hours of music (2GB storage). And it comes with a sleep timer, so you can let it sing sweet lullabies at bedtime.
Laugh & Learn Baby iPhone Case - $19.99 www.thinkgeek.com/geek-kids/1-3-years/e8ef Super Shell iPad Holder for Kids - $34.99 www.thinkgeek.com/geek-kids/3-7-years/ecd9 Train them up right. They’re going to be touching screens for most of their lives (or at least until they develop the technology where we can control our phones with brainwaves), so get them used to it early. These protective cases will insure your precious iPad or iPhone stays safe while your baby learns the strategies of Angry Birds.
Forget the night light; why not let the soothing city lights of the entire world eliminate your child’s bedroom? This globe is both educational and awe-inspiring. It gives us a glimpse of how technology in the 21st century lights up our planet. A truly amazing spectacle, now in globe-form, 50,221,733 times smaller than the real thing (the perfect size for your child’s room).
Star Theater Pro Home Planetarium - $169.99 www.thinkgeek.com/geek-kids/7-13-years/c057 Lights of the Planet Earth not good enough for your kid? How about the light of billions of stars covering the walls and ceiling? The Star Theater Pro Home Planetarium displays an accurate star field based on our earthly perspective. Your child will fall asleep under the stars and may even start charting constellations at an early age.
Kids Star Wars ABC Book - $12.99 www.thinkgeek.com/geek-kids/1-3-years/dc14 I know this isn’t technology per say but, as an avid Star Wars fan, you can be sure I’ll be adding this to my little Padawan’s book shelf.
www.fortgordon.com | 57
58 | FYI august 2012
moviereview Taking it Off: Magic Mike Alice Wynn
Steven Soderbergh is a director who can truly do anything. Sometimes credited with bringing indie film to the mainstream with 1989’s sex, lies, and videotape, he proves consistently that he can do everything from science fiction (Solaris), blockbusters (the Ocean’s trilogy) and Oscar winners (Traffic), to the more experimental (Full Frontal) and microscopic budget, noname-actor dramas (Bubble). He’s worked with a plethora of A-listers such as George Clooney, Julia Roberts, Cate Blanchett and Matt Damon in addition to directing mixed-martial arts fighters (Gina Carano in Haywire) and adultfilm actresses (Sasha Grey in The Girlfriend Experiment). Given his résumé, it was no real shock when he decided to take on the world of male strippers in his latest film Magic Mike (Rated R). And for the record, Magic Mike isn’t just about stripping – it’s so much more. Loosely based on his own experiences, Channing Tatum stars as Mike Lane, aka Magic Mike. On the surface, he’s doing pretty well for himself: a house on the beach, a nice truck and the female companionship of grad student Joanna (Olivia Munn), who shares his predilection for threesomes. He works during the day as a roofer and has an auto detailing gig on the side. But three nights a week, Mike takes front and center at Xquisite, home of an all-male revue in Tampa. However, Mike has dreams beyond the stage; his true passion is building custom furniture and hopes to one day start his own design company.
procures and walking in on him shaving his legs in the sink only seem to point to some lifestyle choices rather than his newfound line of work. Still, she is skeptical of the whole thing. “What do you want from my brother?” she asks Mike. The two develop a flirtation of sorts. Well, Mike tries anyway. She seems impervious to his obvious charm and later blames him for her brother’s ultimate downward spiral. Maybe it’s her aloofness, maybe he sees her as a challenge, but Mike is determined to win her over. But in reality, he wants things to be normal, a girlfriend - the whole package. Of the two women in his life, Brooke questions his chosen career path - “You’re a 30-year-old stripper!” Joanna meets his non-sexual conversation with taunts of “Chatty Cathy.” “You don’t need to talk,” she says. “You just need to look pretty.” Despite Mike’s quest for normalcy, he can never quite seem to get it together. In addition to girl problems, his attempt at a bank loan is denied, despite the fat stack of cash he has as a down payment. His dreams always seen just out of reach. He is promised equity in the club, which the owner, Dallas, (Matthew McConaughey), plans to move to Miami. But Mike knows his days as a dancer are numbered, even though the lure of fast and easy money is hard to give up. Soderbergh takes a no-holds-barred approach in showing the ups and downs of the stripping
industry. Drug use, promiscuity, and throwing out your back are all par for the course. But it also goes deeper than that. The camaraderie between the guys is obvious and with Dallas serving as their delightfully sleazy father-figureslash-pimp. We also see, how even in the malerevue industry, things have a tendency to come around in a full circle. Magic Mike just may be the film that turns Tatum into a bona fide movie star. He definitely has charisma and while his range may be left to question, he is at least fun to watch. The real magic of the film is in the dance numbers. Channing made his first marks on Holly wood as a dancer with Step Up, and it’s easy to see where his true talents lie. Pettyfer also has something about him, sort of a sheepish, boyish charm. Horn mostly falls flat on the screen; her chemistry with Tatum is questionable as well, the only real downside of the film. His chemistry with Munn, however, is palpable. And it wouldn’t be surprising to see McConaughey’s name pop up when award season starts rolling around. Soderbergh has managed to not only extract some terrific performances; he does it in his own signature style. What could have easily been a cheese-filled schlockfest is instead a highly entertaining, fun and well-made nod to an industry very few have insight to.
On the construction jobsite, Mike meets Adam (Alex Pettyfer), an aimless kid who lost a football scholarship and is a current resident of his sister’s couch. Mike decides to take Adam, dubbed The Kid, as a protégé of sorts and introduces him to Xquisite and the perks that come along with being a male dancer. The Kid is easily seduced: girls, booze, drugs, and money – he finds out early they all come pretty easy. His sister, Brooke (Cody Horn), is less impressed. Stumbling across the costumes he
www.fortgordon.com | 59
FORT GORDON DINNER THEATRE PRESENTS
by John Cariani
SHOW DATES August 2, 3, 4
Dinner 7:00 p.m. • Show 8:00 p.m. MENU
Braised Chicken with Peppers and Onions, Baked Cod with Pineapple Salsa, Teriyaki-Glazed London Broil, Rice Pilaf, Glazed Carrots, Summer Squash Casserole, Garlic Buttered Green Beans, House Salad with Assorted Dressings, Iced Tea and Starbucks Coffee, Deluxe Dessert Table
TICKETS
Civilians: $40 | Seniors (65 & over), Retirees, DA Civilians, Active-Duty E7 & above: $38 Active-Duty E6 & below: $30 | Show only: $25
For reservations, call 706-793-8552 60 | FYI august 2012
On a cold, clear, moonless night in the middle of winter, all is not quite what it seems in the remote, mythical town of Almost, Maine. As the northern lights hover in the star-filled sky above, Almost’s residents find themselves falling in and out of love in unexpected and often hilarious ways. Knees are bruised. Hearts are broken. But the bruises heal, and the hearts mend – almost – in this delightful midwinter night’s dream. “… a whimsical approach to the joys and perils of romance. Magical happenings bloom beneath the snowdrifts.” – NY Times “A charmer ... Unexpected magic lingers in the air like someone’s breath on a cold winter’s night. John Cariani aims for the heart by way of the funny bone.” – Star-Ledger “Sweet, poignant and witty.” – NY Daily News Produced in cooperation with Dramatists Play Service, Inc., and Army Entertainment Division
director’schair
Steve Walpert, Entertainment Director
Well, we certainly had a busy month in July. So many exciting projects, all well attended. If you didn’t come out to enjoy the fun, you really missed out… On January 3, we hosted our annual Independence Day Celebration. We started the day with fantastic water rides, including a four-story water-slide, over 60 food and craft vendors, live demonstrations and Military static displays; then moved on to our live entertainment. The show started at 6 p.m. with the Swingin’ Medallions—“The Party band of the South”—and they were fantastic, engaging the crowd with their non-stop energy and incredible musical prowess. Most known for their beach music, frat rock, and R&B tunes, they are a musically diverse group that never fails to bring the crowd to their feet. The Medallions were followed by our own U.S. Army Signal Corps Band, who offered a variety of music ranging from Broadway show tunes, to their always popular patriotic offering. They concluded their show with the 1812 Overture and live cannons! Bravo to the band for a super job! Then came the fireworks; large, loud and beautiful, with a stirring musical accompaniment. An incredible variety of pyrotechnics filled the sky for almost 20 minutes. Crowd reaction confirmed that this show was something special, with cheer after cheer as each successive volley created a stunning canopy of light.
away wet, but very happy. “ BUT…that wasn’t then end of the week by any means! On Sunday, July 8, our favorite rockin’ country songbird, Natalie Stovall and her band, along with comedian Paul Varghese raised the roof over a capacity crowd at Alexander Hall. What an event! About 600 Soldiers in Training from the 15th Regimental Signal Brigade and several hundred patrons from across Fort Gordon and the CSRA, laughed, clapped, stomped their feet and cheered for these super-talented performers as they presented the Army Entertainment Division sponsored “Love , Laughter, and Fiddle Tour! It couldn’t have been more fun! Then over at the Dinner Theatre we opened a wonderful production of Almost, Maine for three weekends. Featuring a very talented cast of performers from Fort Gordon and the local community, the show, as described by the Star Ledger in an earlier production really turned out as predicted….”A charmer…Unexpected magic lingers in the air like someone’s breath on a cold winter’s night. John Cariani (the playwright) aims for the heart by way of the funny bone.” If you’re reading this before August 4, there may still be tickets available, so call (706) 793 8552 for reservations. Later this month, at the Dinner Theatre, we will be conducting auditions for Witness for the Prosecution by Agatha Christie. Audition dates are July 30 and 31 at 7:30 p.m. Only
Agatha Christie could have conceived such a suspenseful thriller and then capped it with an uncanny triple flip ending. A young married man spends many evenings with a rich old woman. When she is found murdered, the naive young man is the chief suspect. The audience will be on the edge of their seats as Dame Agatha takes them on a journey through what has been called her “best mystery” ever. Show dates are September 14, 15, 21, 22, 27, 28 and 29. “A walloping success”—Herald Tribune. “Packs plenty of surprise in its cargo of suspense”— Daily Mirror. So…if you’re a curious person and not familiar with the way things happen out at Fort Gordon, you might be tempted to ask, “How do they manage to pull off all those terrific events at Fort Gordon?” The short and simple answer is hundreds of hardworking and dedicated volunteers and supporting organizations from Fort Gordon and the local community, plus on-post military and civilian staff members who want our Service Members, Families and friends from the local community to be able to share events together that will improve their morale and quality of life. To ALL of those great folks, thank you. Thank you for making it possible to achieve great results for a bunch of really great people. Hope to see you soon at the theatre, or one of our special events!
Then on to the Gary Sinise and the LT Dan Band concert on July 5. Brought to us by the Augusta Warrior Project, with lots of support from Fort Gordon folks, the event was certainly and exciting one. After a 14 hour set-up, with a super array of professional sound and stage lighting gear, show-time was imminent when the skies opened up and sent more fireworks our way…Lightning, rain, and hail caused us to evacuate the field while Gary, the band, crew, and our audience waited…When the weather cleared ahead of another pending storm the whole audience of thousands returned to the field; Gary, the band and crew took positions and we were treated to a rockin’ good time with some very special moments as Gary Sinise paid tribute to our Service members and Families! After an hour, the rains came back and the show ended. But, as Jim Lorraine from the Augusta Warrior Project commented, “everyone felt that the show was a huge success with fans going
www.fortgordon.com | 61
SNAPSH T Our MWR facilities will bring a smile to your face!
Check out our Flickr page for more - www.flickr.com/photos/fyi_magazine
Brandon Shaw at Gordon Lakes Golf Club
Jim Stone and Kyle Williams at Gordon Lakes Golf Club
Steven Lord and Austin Jansen at Alternate Escapes Recreation Center
Takeya Oaks at CYSS Central Registration
62 | FYI august 2012
Adrian Nobles and Lafon Wooten at the Fort Gordon Independence Day Celebration, Barton Field
Ashlyn and Carly Lester and Debbie Sellers at the Fort Gordon Independence Day Celebration, Barton Field
Tabitha, David and Isabella Ussery at the Fort Gordon Independence Day Celebration, Barton Field
MSG Chondra Jones, CW3 Angela Owens and CW5 Janice Fontanez at Morale Call, Gordonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Conference and Catering
SPC Natasha Carter and SPC Keenan Bryant at Morale Call, Gordonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Conference and Catering
Visit us at www.FortGordon.com for upcoming events and information on MWR facilities. www.fortgordon.com | 63
Next
September 2012
Training: Where, Who and Why? Combat training is integral to the readiness of our service members and the division in charge of supporting this crucial task is the Training Support Center Division, part of the Department of Plans, Training, Mobilization and Security (DPTMS). We take a look at the ways in which DPTMS supports the Army mission and how it conducts outreach in the community.
Beating the End of Summer Blues From healthy moments of meditation to artistic outlets through crafts and theatre, MWR can help you make the transition from summer to fall.
Getting Involved Each year, we focus on the terrifying and heart wrenching topic of suicide—understandably it’s something not many people are willing to confront. But staying silent isn’t the solution. How can you support those who need your help?
Around Town: Upcoming Events for you to Enjoy Fort Gordon (and the surrounding CSRA) will make you smile through September! From music and arts festivals, to sporting activities, there is something for everyone. Take a look at what all you can get actively involved with, or just sit back and enjoy!
Don’t forget to become our friend on Facebook, hook up with us on Twitter and look for your smiling face on Flickr. Have a comment? Post on our wall or e-mail the editor at molly.swift.naf@mail.mil. 64 | FYI august 2012
I n
F o c u s
Lt. Dan Band, Barton Field | Photo by Molly Swift
www.fortgordon.com | 65