December 2010 | Happenings | MCCS SC by MCCS South Carolina

DECEMBER 2010

ALSO in this issue... • Calendars • Crossword Puzzle • Holiday Events • Youth Sports • Travel Ideas • and much more!

Check us out online for updates on MCCS activities and join in the conversation at: facebook.com/mccs.sc

PRESENTED BY We would like to thank New River Auto Mall, Navy Federal Credit Union and Gavigan Homes for their sponsorship of MCCS events and activities. The Department of Defense (DoD) and the Marine Corps neither endorse nor favor any commercial supplier, product, or service.

TOP STORIES

SATURDAY 27 NOVEMBER FROM 1300-1600 AT THE PARRIS ISLAND MCX PARKING LOT 22nd Annual COâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tree Lighting Ceremony 2 December at 1800 Laurel Bay 7 Day Store

This will be the 22nd year of the Commanding Officer's Tree Lighting Ceremony on Laurel Bay. Please join us for cookies and cocoa, music by the Parris Island Marine Corps Band, Christmas carols provided by Dr. Ulmer and the children of Bolden Elementary School choir, and a visit by Santa! For more information please call Beth Huston at 228-7333 or email hustonbe@usmc-mccs.org.

ALL FAMILIES THROUGH E-5 WILL RECEIVE A FREE CHRISTMAS TREE! ( WHILE SUPPLIES LAST)

COLLECTION

LOCATION

DROP OFF A NEW UNWRAPPED TOY

Thank You to our event sponsor

FOR MORE INFO CALL 228-1662 Thank You to our event sponsors:

The Department of Defense (DoD) and the Marine Corps neither endorse nor favor any commercial supplier, product, or service.

P R E S E N T E D BY

The Department of Defense (DoD) and the Marine Corps neither endorse nor favor any commercial supplier, product, or service.

Santa at the Library Santa at the Parris Island Library

Join the elves, reindeer, Marines, Sailors, family members and DoD civilians for the 4th Quarterly 3-mile Run with

Santa will visit the Parris Island Library on Wednesday 15 December. While waiting for Santa to arrive on the fire truck, a Christmas story or two will be enjoyed. The newly renovated library is located in Building 283 above the Douglas Visitors Center. All parents and children are welcome to attend. Treats will be provided. Please remember your camera as Santa loves to have his picture taken. Santa at the Air Station Library Santa has also agreed to take time from his busy schedule to visit the Air Station Library on Thursday, 16 December at 0900. His reindeer will relax near the end of the flight line while the wonderful firemen bring Santa to the library from 0900-0945. All children may bring their parents to visit Santa. Treats will be provided. Please remember your camera as Santa loves to have his picture taken.

bells on!

Runners encouraged to wear Holiday clothing. Jingle bells will be provided to each runner. Awards will be available. call 228-1587 for more info MCAS Beaufort 3 mile run Friday 10 December 0700 meet at Ball Field parking lot open to all eligible patrons Thank You to our event sponsors:

DECEMBER 2010

The Department of Defense (DoD) and the Marine Corps neither endorse nor favor any commercial supplier, product, or service.

MCRD parris island 3 mile run Wednesday 15 december 0700 meet at mcrd Fitness Center open to all eligible patrons Presented By

MCCS HAPPENINGS

RETAIL New Laser Car Wash The car wash at Parris Island (adjacent to the former Triangle 7-Day store) will feature a state-of-the-art M5 Touch-Free Laser

Wash. Options will include undercarriage rinse, triple-foam conditioner and RainX full body coat. The M5 at Laurel Bay has been a big hit.

Congratulations to SSgt Derrick Francis! SSgt Francis won the local drawing, at the Parris Island MCX, for a Sharp BluRay player. His name was also one of the two names picked from a installation-wide drawing at Headquarters Marine Corps for a Sharp sound bar system. You too could be a winner at the Parris Island MCX. There are always monthly in store giveaways, and you just have to enter for a chance to win.

DECEMBER CROSSWORD

Across

All answers can be found in this issue's content

1. Whose monthly Happenings column typically features a book recommendation? 6. What's the name of the SMP Recreation facility aboard MCAS Beaufort? 8. Who is famous for their pork chops and chicken fingers at The Officers' Club? 9. Who is famous for hosting karaoke at Brig N' Brew? 10. What will you save after attending the class held on 8 December in building 807?

Down

2. How many years have we held the Commanding Officersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Tree Lighting ceremony? 3. What's the name of MCCS' TLF that now takes online reservations? 4. What new service is available aboard MCRD Parris Island, dubbed the M5? 5. Result of a program that begins 18 January at the MCAS Fitness Center 7. Who is the luckiest Marine who shops at the Parris island MCX?

Across 1.Samantha 6. Afterburners 8. Mama 9. DJ Donna 10. Money Down 2. Twenty Two 3. deTreville House 4. Car Wash 5. Triathlon 7. SSGTFrancis

DECEMBER 2010

MCCS HAPPENINGS

Veterans Have Options for Health Care Coverage We want our veterans to be taken care of, especially when it comes to their health. Those who have served their country through the United States military have several options when it comes to their health care coverage. Qualifying veterans receive care at VA facilities. Additionally, those 65 years old and older, and those with certain disabilities, may qualify for Medicare. Many veterans don’t know about their Medicare rights and most have earned access to the Medicare system, just as they’ve earned their VA benefits. You shouldn’t lose the opportunity, especially since some of these benefits may be offered at low or no cost. VA and Medicare offer different, yet valuable, benefits to veterans. Through the VA, eligible veterans have access to a full range of preventive outpatient and inpatient services as long as you stay within the VA health care system, which includes hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, pharmacies and doctors nationwide. VA co-payments and deductibles, including the costs of prescription drugs, are generally less than Medicare. Eligibility for benefits is based on a priority system. According to the United States Department of Veterans Affairs website, there are more than 8 million people covered by the VA Health Care System. Medicare has four parts – A, B, C and D. Part A covers inpatient services, including hospital, skilled nursing facility, home health and hospice care. Part B covers outpatient medical services, such as doctor visits, preventive care and durable medical equipment. Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage (MA), combines Parts A and B into one plan that is run by private insurance company, like Empire BlueCross BlueShield, rather than the government. These plans may also include Part D, which is drug coverage. Most people, including veterans, don’t pay a premium for Part A. In most cases, these costs have been covered by payroll taxes. In contrast, Part B generally requires a monthly payment. Some companies offer Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) that cover everything included in Parts A and B, and more, including preventative services, at no additional cost. These are known as “zero premium plans.” Some of these plans could also include dental, vision and hearing coverage. Other plans provide the same services, but require a monthly premium.

Are VA Loan Interest Rates at an All-time Low?

Enrollment processes and eligibility differ for VA and Medicare. Veterans can choose to participate in one program or the other or both. Enrollment in a Medicare plan does not affect an individual’s VA eligibility. On its website the VA recommends veterans not decline Medicare based solely on their VA coverage. The VA says there is no guarantee funds will continue to be appropriated for medical care for all enrollment priority groups. This could leave some veterans, especially those enrolled in one of the lower priority groups, with no access to care. For this reason, having a secondary source of coverage, like Medicare, may be in a veteran’s best interest, the VA says. Additionally, people who decline Medicare Part B when they are first eligible to receive it face substantial financial penalties if they decide to enroll later. The initial enrollment period typically occurs in the three months before the person’s 65th birthday, their birthday month and the three subsequent months. There is no similar penalty for veterans who delay Part D enrollment because the VA’s drug coverage is deemed equal to or better than Medicare. Other benefits of Medicare for veterans include having access to doctors, hospitals and pharmacies outside the VA network and potentially having a larger list of covered drugs. Wider access could be important in case of an emergency or if a veteran needs a second opinion or specialized care. It’s important to remember that Medicare cannot generally pay for the same service paid for by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Nor can the VA generally pay for the same service paid for by Medicare. There are many things for veterans to consider when selecting health care, including premiums, copayments and access. For more information about veterans and Medicare, visit the Department of Veterans Affairs Web site at http://www4.va.gov/healtheligibility and click on “Medicare Information for Veterans.”

VA-guaranteed loans are well-known for requiring no money down and no private mortgage insurance. Add historically low interest rates into the mix, and it’s hard to find a more palatable home loan program. So, when an experienced VA mortgage professional says, “Now is the best time in history to get a VA loan,” he may not be far off. But are rates really that low? To put today’s rates in perspective, a reliable interest rate archive is needed. Freddie Mac has tracked the average 30-year fixed mortgage interest rates since 1971 (before then, it’s been reported that very low rates were, at times, available). The data collected is a record of average rates offered by lenders across the country for a typical mortgage, one for which the borrower is well qualified and has at least 20 percent to put down or has the equivalent equity in the home being financed. The data shows that today’s rate of 4.27% is the lowest average 30-year fixed rate since Freddie Mac’s record keeping began. VA loan rates can vary from those of typical conventional mortgage programs, but they tend to move with the national average. Despite all the hype about the lowest mortgage interest rates in history, mortgage borrowers had an average rate of 6.07% in the second quarter of 2010, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis. So is now the time for eligible borrowers to take advantage of a historically low rate on a VA loan? Whether to act now to purchase or refinance is a personal decision. Purchasing a home at a low interest rate can save thousands of dollars over time. And, refinancing at a percentage or two lower can be a good financial strategy. A borrower who is contemplating a VA refinance loan can ask a VA specialty lender to perform “break even” calculations that can help determine exactly when the cost to close a VA refinance loan will start to pay off. In the meantime, the unique VA loan advantages that remain steady with the times include: no down payment, relaxed qualifying standards, competitive fixed interest rates, no pre-payment penalties, cash-out and debt consolidation, and streamline rate reduction. With historically low rates, now may be the best time in a long time for a VA loan. VA loan rates can vary, depending on borrower and lender circumstances. To learn more about VA loans and the historically low interest rates associated with them, contact an experienced VA loan professional.

More online under the “Retired Activities” tab at http://mccs-sc.com MCCS Retired Activities on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BeaufortRAO

DECEMBER 2010

MCCS HAPPENINGS

Avoid Holiday Weight Gain

December is National Drugged and Drunk Driving (3D) Prevention Month Many times we think exclusively of alcohol and impaired driving, not taking into account the countless number of impaired drivers on the road due to other drugs. Many are prescribed pain medication to help with the aches and pains that may be a product of intense training or recovery from an injury. These drugs are potent and decrease all levels of response, reaction and mental awareness. We are more aware all the time through law enforcement and clinical data that individuals are often combining alcohol with these potent drugs. This combination is a “mental straight jacket”, as alcohol causes these other drugs to “strengthen” due to the complicated breakdown of alcohol and combined chemicals. As we lean into the cold and flu season it is important to be watchful of adverse reactions that are related to alcohol and over the counter medication. Allergy medicine and antihistamines are two examples of over the counter medica-

recipe

Curried Chicken Salad

with Apples and Raisins Enjoy this fruit-studded chicken salad with whole-grain crackers, or spread it on whole wheat bread for a sandwich. Yield: 2 servings Serving size: about 1 cup Source: Barbara Seelig Brown, Cooking Light, AUG 2005

DECEMBER 2010

The average American gains seven to ten pounds during the holidays. It doesn’t have to be that way with a few simple guidelines. To keep your energy level up and avoid binging on holiday treats – DON’T SKIP MEALS. Have frequent small meals of healthy, whole foods – the less processed the better. To keep your spirit level up, try participating in a new activity that will help others; such as, serving meals to the homeless or packing care boxes for the needy. Avoid being overwhelmed by choosing the holiday parties you really want to attend, rather than going to every function. Go for quality not quantity. If gift-giving has gotten out of control, try drawing names. To relieve stress, remember to include exercise in your daily schedule. Take good care of yourself and life will be much more pleasurable. For more information on healthy ideas and fitness activities, visit www.mccssc.com and click on Semper Fit.

tion combined with alcohol can have serious adverse side effects. We need to be vigilant and mindful of prescription drug interactions. Use of alcohol when using prescription or over the counter drugs is always a risk, and depending on the prescription drug, may result in an adverse and dangerous reaction. Observe all warnings associated with any medications and

ingredients:

1/4 cup low-fat mayonnaise 1 teaspoon curry powder 2 teaspoons water 1 cup chopped skinless, boneless grilled lemon-herb chicken (about 4 ounces) 3/4 cup chopped Braeburn apple (about 1 small) 1/3 cup diced celery 3 tablespoons raisins 1/8 teaspoon salt

should you ever have any questions or concerns please consult your medical department or your primary care manager (PCM). Be safe and watch out for each other. For more information on Behavoiral Health Prevention and Awareness contact Daniel Evans, CASAC ICADAC, at daniel.evans@usmc.mil.

preparation:

Combine mayonnaise, curry powder, and water in a medium bowl, stirring with a whisk until well blended. Add the grilled lemon-herb chicken, chopped apple, celery, raisins, and salt; stir mixture well to combine. Cover and chill.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 222 (22% from fat) Fat: 5.4g (sat 0.9g, mono 1.7g, poly 2g) Protein: 17.5g; Carbohydrate: 26.9g Fiber: 2.5g; Cholesterol: 50mg Iron: 1.5mg; Sodium: 731mg; Calcium: 30mg

MCCS HAPPENINGS

Youth Holiday Bowling Party 18 December 2010, 1300-1600 Parris Island Bowling Alley Party is for ages 3-14. Parents must accompany children 3-9 years of age for the duration of the party. ID is required, and the cost is $8 per child. RSVP by 13 December to 228-1551. Semper Fit Holiday 2010 Arts & Crafts Classes A variety of Arts & Crafts classes are available for children and adults including stained glass, fusing, and jewelry. Visit MCCS-SC.com, click on Semper Fit, and view the brochure in the sidebar. All classes are held in the Laurel Bay arts and crafts classroom. Please contact Stephanie Brady-Connelly at 843-228-1587 or connellysm@usmc-mccs.org for more information and to sign up for classes. Youth Baseball and Softball Registration 18 January - 14 February 2011 Registration is available at the following two locations: Recreation Building 172 Parris Island | Hours: 0830-1600 Human Resource Building Laurel Bay | Hours: 0830-1530

Congratulations

Cody Small

for winning the 2010 Club Championship

Boys and girls ages 4-14 are eligible to sign up for baseball and softball and must be 4 years old by 1 March 2011. Practices begin the week of 7 March 2011. The cost is $20 per child, and the opening ceremony is 26 March. Season begins week of 4 April 2011. For more information contact Kenny Brown at 228-1707 or email brownkb@ usmc-mccs.org. You may also contact Ronnie Moore at 228-1586 or email moorer@ usmc-mccs.org.

START - (Sprint Tri-Athalon Race Training) MCAS Fitness Center Register: 06 December 2010-19 January 2011 at MCAS Fitness Center Program starts 18 January-26 February 2011 Interested in trying a Sprint Triathlon but donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know how to get started? You can start with the basics by attending two conditioning classes (1700 Tuesdays and Thursdays) each week for 6 weeks. Tuesdays we will work on upper body strength conditioning and weekly progressive indoor cycling, and Thursdays will be lower body strength conditioning and weekly progressive outdoor runs (1, 1.5, 2.0. 2.5, 3.0, 3.1 miles) with alternate Saturdays for learning the basics of cycling safety, basic bike repairs, hydration and nutrition. Also on Saturdays we will head out for a bike ride with a group of your peers. The rides are planned to be on MCAS Beaufort for the 1st and 3rd Saturdays. The 2nd Saturday will be at MCRD on the actual course used for the Sprint Triathalon in March. Practice with transitioning phases to improve race times will be included! For more information please contact Harriet Fisher at 228-7092 or Lyubov Bergen at 2287010 or email bergenlr@usmc-mccs.org.

Dance & Gymnastics Classes for Children ages 2-6

Now offering a variety of dance and gymnastics classes for children ages 2-6: Tumbling Twoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Introductory, Beginning Dance, Introductory, and Beginning Gymnastics. Visit MCCS-SC. com and click on Semper Fit. The Dance and Gymnastics brochure is in the sidebar. Register in Building 172 Parris Island during the hours of 0830-1600. For more information contact Stephanie Connelly at 228-1587 or email connellysm@usmc-mccs.org.

DECEMBER 2010

Parris Island Fitness Center Closure The fitness facility will be closed for floor renovation. Please check for postings on exact closure dates. The 12 Days of Fitness will still be available during gym closure. Please check with the Fitness Center for available Group Fitness Classes.

First Tee Registration Register: 18 January 2011- 14 February 2011 in recreation building 172 Parris Island from 0830-1600 or at the Laurel Bay Human Resource Office from 0830-1530 The program is 22 February - 3 March with sessions at 1730 and 1830. The program will be at the Youth Fields at Laurel Bay. These are NOT Golf Lessons. It is a program to teach kids core values through the avenue of golf. There are nine core values taught which are: honesty, integrity, sportsmanship, respect, confidence, responsibility, perseverance, courtesy, and judgment. The program is for boys and girls ages 8-15. Children must be 8 years old by the first day of class. Cost is $20. For more information contact Kenny Brown at 228-1707 or email brownkb@usmc-mccs.org. You may also contact Ronnie Moore at 228-1586 or email moorer@usmcmccs.org.

Kids Day Out at the Movies

11 December | 1100-1600 | MCAS Theater

Please join us for a movie, a kids pack (movie concessions: candy, popcorn and a drink), arts and crafts and a pizza lunch. This Kids Day Out is for ages 5-12. The cost is $5 per child. Please visit MCCSSC.com/theater to register online.

MCCS HAPPENINGS

MCRD PARRIS ISLAND

MCAS BEAUFORT

Operation Elf Gift Wrap

Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays in Dec

1400-2000 at Marine Corps Exchange, Parris Island Operation Elf Gift Wrap is a free service offered to the patrons of the Marine Corps Exchange during the month of December. SATURDAY NOVEMBER To make this event a27 success—WE NEED YOUR HELP! Get into the holiday spirit and show off your gift wrapping skills while FROM 1300-1600 earning volunteer service hours. Grab a few friends, sign up for THE ISLAND aAT 2 hour block,PARRIS and we’ll provide the Santa hats! This is a great MCX PARKING way to come together as aLOT Battalion, a group, or just as an individual to help out a good cause. For more information please contact Jennifer Carr, 843-228-1662, carrjm@usmc-mccs.org.

ALL FAMILIES THROUGH Toys for Tots E-5 WILL The objectives ofAToys for Tots are to help less fortunate RECEIVE FREE children throughout the United States experience the joy of CHRISTMAS TREE! Christmas; to play an active role in the development of one of ( WHILE LAST) our nation’sSUPPLIES most valuable resources – our children; to unite all

You, Me, Us

We are all different, right? Some of those differences are what attracted us to each other in the first place. And some of those differences are often what annoy us later on! People in healthy relationships accept that it is okay for their spouse to see things differently. They recognize that their spouse brings different strengths and weaknesses to the relationship. One thing that we sometimes forget to appreciate is that our spouse likely has a different personality type than we do. They see the world and interact in it differently than we do and they often have different expectations about how things should be. This workshop will enable you to better understand yourself and your spouse so that the two of you can have a successful and healthy relationship.

FOR MORE INFOcommunities CALL 228-1662 members of local in a common cause for three PRESENTED BY Thank You to our months each toy collection and distribuevent year sponsor during the annual COLLECTION Thank You to our event sponsors: LOCATION DROP OFF communities A NEW tion campaign; and to contribute to better in the UNWRAPPED TOY future. The Department of Defense (DoD) and the Marine Corps neither endorse nor favor any The Department of Defense (DoD) and the Marine Corps neither commercial supplier, product,supplier, or service. endorse nor favor any commercial product, or service.

Please help by donating new unwrapped gifts to the Toys for Tots organization. Drop off boxes are located around Parris Island. For more information and specific drop off locations, please contact Jennifer Carr at 843-228-1662 or email carrjm@ usmc-mccs.org. For more information, please contact your MCRD MCFTB Team: Deanna Simpson – MCFTB Director – 228-1505 Jennifer Carr – MCFTB Administrative Specialist – 228-1662 Krissy Stewart – Family Readiness Program Trainer – 228-1663 Crystal Hundley – LifeSkills Program Trainer – 228-1570 Anne Doty – Readiness & Deployment Support Trainer – 228-1550 Sylvia Sanchez - L.I.N.K.S. Program Trainer - 228-1573 Ashley McCartney - L.I.N.K.S. Administrative Specialist - 228-1524

Call or email Roxanne Farr at 228-7334 or farrre@usmc-mccs. org to sign up. As always, childcare will be provided with advanced registration. For more information, please contact your MCAS MCFTB Team: Melinda Henrickson – MCFTB Director – 228-6141 Kelly Edens – MCFTB Administrative Specialist – 228-6141 Julia Gwynn – L.I.N.K.S. Program Trainer – 228-7397 Brittany Coppinger – L.I.N.K.S. Administrative Specialist – 228-7362 Roxanne Farr – LifeSkills Program Trainer – 228-7334 Christina Swick – Readiness & Deployment Support Trainer – 228-6793 Christopher Eiland – Family Readiness Program Trainer – 228-7495 Nicole Bright-Hardee – Readiness & Deployment Support Trainer – 228-7311

MCFTB ONLINE: Main Website: http://mccs-sc.com/MCFTB/

MCAS Facebook: http://facebook.com/mcftb.mcas.beaufort MCRD Facebook: http://facebook.com/mcftb.mcrd.pi DECEMBER 2010

MCCS HAPPENINGS

Spending Plan for the Holiday Season Giving is one of the cornerstones of holiday tradition, but bzuying gifts for every person you know can swiftly deplete your holiday budget. A couple of dollars here or there quickly adds up during this holiday season. Learn some budgeting tips and avoid paying all next year. Join us for a holiday budgeting class!

careerresources MCAS Beaufort

MCRD Parris Island

7 DEC 0800-1500

VA Medical Record Review/DTAP

01 DEC 1300-1400

Career Decision Making

14-17 DEC 0800-1630

Transition Assistance Program (TAP)

01 DEC 1400-1600

Career Assessments

06 DEC 0730-1600

Pre-Separation Brief

7-9 DEC 0800-1600

Transition Assistance Program (TAP)

13 DEC 0800-1600

VA Medical Record Review/DTAP

14 DEC 1300-1500

Interviewing Strategies

15 DEC 1300-1500

Federal Employment

16 DEC 1300-1600

Survivor Benefit Plan

All workshops/briefs held in Bldg 807 Call 228-7701/6670 Please contact your unit Career Planner to reserve your seat

December 8, 2010 1100-1200 MCAS, Building 807, Room 38 December 9, 2010 1100-1200 MCRD, TBA For more information call the Personal Financial Management Program: MCAS 228-7055, MCRD 228-2218

Park Tickets: Special Price Walt Disney World is proud to present “Let the Memories Begin” with a special offer on park tickets. From now until 28 September 2011 active and retired military personnel can purchase: · Disney 4 Day Military Promotional Park Hopper ticket for $138.00 each · Disney 4 Day Military Promotional Base ticket with water parks fun and more for $138.00 each · Disney 4 Day Military Promotional Park Hopper with water parks fun and more for $165.00 each Members can buy up to six (6) tickets and must be used by service members or their spouses. If purchasing six (6) tickets, all six tickets must be purchased at the same time. A valid military

DECEMBER 2010

ID will be required for admission. Tickets must be used by the same person on any and all days. Tickets expire and may not be used after 1 October 2011. Tickets cannot be used on the following dates: 27-31 December 2010, 17-23 April 2011 and 4 July 2011 at Magic Kingdom only. For more details visit ITT aboard Parris Island or call 228-1540 or MCAS MCX customer service counter or call 228-7769.

Holiday Cheer at Universal Studios in Orlando, FL Celebrate Grinchmas at Universal’s Islands of Adventure and join in the fun of the Macy’s Holiday Parade, you will see authentic balloons and floats directly from Macy’s Thanksgiving parade in New York City, plus colorful marching bands from around the country. On 4, 11 and 18 December enjoy a holiday music performance by Mannheim Steamroller plus other musical guests 5 Dec 2010 – 1 January 2011. All festivities are included with your theme park admission during selected dates in December. Visit ITT at Parris Island to purchase your tickets or call 228-1540 for more details or tickets can be purchased at MCAS MCX customer service counter or call 228-7769.

All workshops/briefs held in Bldg 923 Call 228-2761 Please contact your unit Career Planner to reserve your seat

Charleston 21st Holiday Festival of Lights Stroll through Santa’s village, walk in winter wonderland and enjoy the enchanted forest walking trail, train rides and more at this magical time of the year. Tickets can be used any day from 12 November 2010–2 January 2011. Ticket cost is $10 per vehicle with 14 or less passengers. Stop by ITT located near the Furniture Department at MCX aboard Parris Island to purchase your tickets or call 228-1540 for more information.

Wet ‘n Wild Orlando Military Appreciation Days has been extended until 31 MARCH 2011 FREE one-day admission ticket valid for Active Duty or retired military service members with valid military photo ID. Additional discounted tickets available for family, friends and DOD employees. Active Duty/Retired personnel must pick up the “Free One-Day Admission” voucher and application form from the ITT (Information, Tickets and Tours) Office at the MCX Exchange (near the Furniture Dept) aboard Parris Island (228-1540).

MCCS HAPPENINGS

Info & Reservations call 843-228-1500

or visit us online at mccs-sc.com MONDAY

TUESDAY

Lunch Buffet Featuring:

FRIED PORK CHOPS AND BAKED CHICKEN Sides, Drink & Dessert $7.95

Lunch Buffet Featuring:

FRIED PORK CHOPS AND BAKED CHICKEN Sides, Drink & Dessert $7.95

G R E AT A M E R I C A N

ITALIAN LUNCH BUFFET Sides, Drink & Dessert $7.95

G R E AT A M E R I C A N

Sides, Drink & Dessert $7.95

14 Lunch Buffet Featuring:

MEATLOAF AND FRIED CHICKEN

Sides, Drink & Dessert $7.95

STEAK OUT

Lunch Buffet Featuring:

MEATLOAF AND FRIED CHICKEN

9 MANAGER’S CHOICE LUNCH BUFFET Sides, Drink & Dessert $7.95

ITALIAN LUNCH BUFFET Sides, Drink & Dessert $7.95

G R E AT A M E R I C A N

STEAK OUT

16 MANAGER’S CHOICE LUNCH BUFFET Sides, Drink & Dessert $7.95

1700-2000

FRIDAY

FRIED CATFISH LUNCH BUFFET Sides, Drink & Dessert $7.95

SUNDAY Sunday Brunch

FRIED CATFISH LUNCH BUFFET

Happy Hour 1600-1800 SATURDAY

SUNDAY Sunday Brunch

FRIED CATFISH LUNCH BUFFET

12 17

Sides, Drink & Dessert $7.95

Happy Hour 1600-1800 SATURDAY

SUNDAY Sunday Brunch

HOLIDAY SEASON WILL REOPEN 3 JAN

Sides, Drink & Dessert $7.95

23 CLOSED FOR

ITALIAN LUNCH BUFFET

Happy Hour 1600-1800 BOSS’ NIGHT - Starts at 1530 SATURDAY

1700-2000

19 24

G R E AT A M E R I C A N

Sides, Drink & Dessert $7.95

STEAK OUT

SATURDAY

1700-2000

CLOSED FOR HOLIDAY SEASON

MANAGER’S CHOICE LUNCH BUFFET

1700-2000

MEATLOAF AND FRIED CHICKEN

2 Sides, Drink & Dessert $7.95

STEAK OUT

Lunch Buffet Featuring:

20 Lunch Buffet Featuring:

Sides, Drink & Dessert $7.95

Calendar THURSDAY

ITALIAN LUNCH BUFFET

TRADITIONS HOURS: Mon-Fri: 1100-1330 Lunch Buffet & a la Carte Menu 6

WEDNESDAY

SUNDAY NO Brunch

26 31

WILL REOPEN 3 JAN

Find us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/traditions.pi

SUNDAY BRUNCH

GREAT NEW PRICE!

You asked; we listened! Tradi-

Every Sunday • 1100-1330 • Traditions (MCRD)

INCLUDES:

Assorted breakfast and lunch entrèes, salads, pasteries and more PRICE:

$16.95 Adults $6.95 Ages 6-12

Ages 5 and under are FREE

DECEMBER 2010

Holiday Parties

tions now offers an all-inclusive lunch buffet price which includes all hot and cold selections, a beverage and dessert for just

Let MCCS take the stress out of planning your holiday parties. MCCS offers planning and catering services for your events. For more information contact Julie McElwain, Catering Manager, 843-228-1500.

MCCS HAPPENINGS

CALENDA

CALENDAR

MONDAY

■ Retired Activities, p. 4 http://mccs-sc.com/RAO

■ Health, Fitness &

TUESDAY

MCRD Parris Island ● MCAS Beaufort

►

Recreation, p. 5

http://mccs-sc.com/recreation/ sports.asp

■ Single Marine Program, p. 14

http://mccs-sc.com/SMP

■ Family Matters (Career), p. 8

http://mccs-sc.com/crmc.asp

■ Marine Corps Family Team

►Pre-Separation Brief, CRMC, Building 923, 0730-1600 ► The Commissary Price is Right, @ The MCRD Commissary, 1000-1200 ► L.I.N.K.S. Mentor Meeting, 1300-1500 ● Wii Golf @ Afterburners, 1800

► DTAP/VA Medical Record Review, CRMC Building 923, 08001600 ●Ladder Ball @ Afterburners, 1800

Building (MCFTB), p. 7 http://mccs-sc.com/MCFTB

■ Child, Youth & Teen, p. 15 http://mccs-sc.com/community/ community.asp

■ Travel, p. 8

●L.I.N.K.S. Presentation Day, 09001200, MCAS MCFTB

►(7-8 DEC) L.I.N.K.S. for Spouse 0800-1400 ● VA Medical Record Review/ DTAP, CRMC, Bldg 807 Room 33 0800-1500 ►(7-9 DEC) Transition Assistance Program,CRMC Building 923, 080 1600 ●Family Readiness Volunteer Trai ing, MCFTB House, 0830-1230 - Pre/Post Deployment Brief @ Naval Hospital, 1800-2000 ●Texas Hold’em, Afterburners, 19

●(14-17 DEC) TAP, CRMC Building 807 Room 33, 0800-1630 ●L.I.N.K.S. Mentor Training (Day 2 MCAS MCFTB, 0830-1330 ►4 Lenses, 1000-1400 ●PREP: You, Me, Us, MCFTB House, 1000-1300 ►Interviewing Strategies, CRMC Building 923, 1300-1500 ●Texas Hold’em, Afterburners 190

●Family Readiness Volunteer Trai ing, MCFTB House, 0830-1230 ●Texas Hold’em, Afterburners 190

http://mccs-sc.com/ITT

■ Education, p. 16

http://mccs-sc.com/lifelong

■ Library, p. 17

http://mccs-sc.com/lifelong/ libraries.html

Kwanzaa Begins

■ Food and Hospitality, p. 13

●L.I.N.K.S. for Kids, 1000-1400, MCAS MCFTB ●Texas Hold’em, Afterburners 190

http://mccs-sc.com/food.asp

■ Retail / Shopping, p. 3

http://mccs-sc.com/shopping.asp DECEMBER 2010

MCCS HAPPENINGS

ARCALENDAR WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

► Strengthening Your MarriageLunch Bunch, Douglas Visitor Center, 1130-1230 ► Career Decision Making, Career Resource Management Center, Building 923, 1300-1400 ►Career Assessments, Career Resource Management Center, Building 923, 1400-1600

es,

e 00-

●Holiday Budgeting Class, Building 807, Room 38, 1100-1200 ►“Taking Others with You” @ Brig N’ Brew, 1130-1230

HANUKKAH BEGINS

- Blood Drive, BNH 1100-1600 ●Horseshoe tournament @ Afterburners, 1800 ►Karaoke @ Brig N’ Brew 1900-2200

►Holiday Budgeting Class, Location TBA, 1100-1200 ●8-ball pool tournament @ Afterburners, 1800 ►Karaoke @ Brig N’ Brew 1900-2200

900

2),

in-

►Jingle Bell Run, 0700 ●L.I.N.K.S. for Spouses (Day 1), MCAS MCFTB, 0830-1330 ►Santa @ Library, 0900-0945 ●Blood Drive 1100-1600 (SMP) ►Federal Employment, CRMC Building 923, 1300-1500 ●Troop Appreciation, Afterburners, 1500 ●Christmas Party and Karaoke @ Afterburners, 1900-2300

●8-ball pool tournament @ Afterburners, 1800

●Hearts Apart, MCFTB House, 1000-1200

►Family Readiness Volunteer Training, 0900-1400 ●VMFA-122 Kids-N-Deployment, BOQ, 1000-1200

22nd Annual CO’s Tree Lighting Ceremony, Laurel Bay 7 Day Store, 1800

in-

FRIDAY

●Madden tournament, Afterburners

●L.I.N.K.S. for Spouses (Day 2), MCAS MCFTB location, 0830-1330 ●Santa @ Library, 0900-0945 ►Survivor Benefit Plan, CRMC Building 923, 1300-1600 ►Christmas Party and Karaoke @ Brig N’ Brew, 1900-2300

►Jingle Bell Run, 0700 ●L.I.N.K.S. Mentor Training (Day 1), MCAS MCFTB, 0830-1330 ●Hearts Apart, MCFTB House, 1000-1200 ●4 Lenses: Financial Management, MCAS MCFTB, 1000-1300 ●Hearts Apart Movie Night, MCFTB House, 1800-2200

●4 Lenses for Couples, 0900-1200, MCAS MCFTB ►Youth Holiday Bowling Party, Parris Island Bowling Alley, 1300-1600

CHRISTMAS EVE

CHRISTMAS DAY

NEW YEARS EVE

►Christmas Around the World, CDC, 0900-1100 ●Hearts Apart, MCFTB House, 1000-1200 ●Family Care Plan, MCAS MCFTB, 1000-1200 ►Winter Wonderland Bash, Youth Center, 1530-1700 ●Movie Night @ Afterburners, 1900- Free Popcorn

●Christmas Treats @ Afterburners, 1800 ►Karaoke @ Brig N’ Brew 19002200

●Movie Night @ Afterburners, 1900 - Free Popcorn

●UFC 124 Pay Per View @ Afterburners, 2200 ●Kids on the Home Front, MCAS MCFTB, 1000-1130 ●Maximize Joy, Minimize Stress, MCFTB House, 1000-1130

●Hearts Apart, MCFTB House, 1000-1200

DECEMBER 2010

MCCS HAPPENINGS

Info & Reservations call 843-228-7600

or visit us online at mccs-sc.com MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THE OFFICERS’ CLUB, MCAS BEAUFORT

Calendar THURSDAY

FULL HOT & COLD 1 LUNCH BUFFET

BOSS’ NIGHT 2

Sides, Drink & Dessert $7.95

Starts at 1530

FEATURING: Mama’s Homemade Fried Chicken Tenders

6 FULL HOT & COLD LUNCH BUFFET

Sides, Drink & Dessert $7.95

7 FULL HOT & COLD LUNCH BUFFET

Sides, Drink & Dessert $7.95

13 FULL HOT & COLD LUNCH BUFFET

Sides, Drink & Dessert $7.95

14 FULL HOT & COLD LUNCH BUFFET

Sides, Drink & Dessert $7.95

20 FULL HOT & COLD LUNCH BUFFET

Sides, Drink & Dessert $7.95

21 FULL HOT & COLD LUNCH BUFFET

Sides, Drink & Dessert $7.95

FULL HOT & COLD 8 LUNCH BUFFET

LUNCH BUFFET FEATURING:

LUNCH BUFFET FEATURING: LUNCH BUFFET FEATURING:

LUNCH BUFFET FEATURING:

FEATURING: Mama’s Homemade Fried Chicken Tenders

15 FULL HOT & COLD LUNCH BUFFET

FRY-DAY

FISH

FRY-DAY

(& landlubber grub too) LUNCH BUFFET FEATURING:

Sides, Drink & Dessert $7.95 FEATURING: Mama’s Homemade Fried Chicken Tenders

22 FULL HOT & COLD LUNCH BUFFET

FISH

(& landlubber grub too)

Sides, Drink & Dessert $7.95

LUNCH BUFFET FEATURING:

FISH

FRY-DAY

(& landlubber grub too)

Sides, Drink & Dessert $7.95

CLOSED FOR HOLIDAY SEASON WILL REOPEN 3 JAN

FEATURING: Mama’s Homemade Fried Chicken Tenders

CLOSED FOR HOLIDAY SEASON

FRIDAY

WILL REOPEN 3 JAN

GREAT NEW PRICE! You asked; we listened!

The Officers’ Club now offers an all-inclusive lunch buffet price which includes all hot and cold selections, a beverage and dessert for just

Holiday Parties DECEMBER 2010

Let MCCS take the stress out of planning your holiday parties. MCCS offers planning and catering services for your events. For more information contact Chris Alexandre at 843-228-7600.

MCCS HAPPENINGS

at work she is caring for other people’s children, husbands & wives. Her value to MCCS and the Marine Corps is evident every day but especially on Wednesdays for Mama’s homemade fried chicken tenders and of course Thursday’s pork chop day. Please make a point of saying hello to Mama when you see her and thank her for her constant and unwavering service.

Meet Mama The face behind The Officers' Club's famous pork chops and homemade fried chicken tenders For 26 years Lucille “Mama” Fell has worked for The Officers' Club with a slight hiatus during the remodel. She has been an icon to many Marines, sailors and their families and has been constantly committed to their care. When asked how she was able to keep going for all the years, she stated that when she leaves work she goes home and cooks for her family, and thinks about how

deTreville House Wins 17 Consecutive Food and Hospitality Excellence Awards The deTreville House received its first Food and Hospitality Excellence Award in 1992 and continues to be recognized each year for this award. The Food and Hospitality Excellence Award Program was established by Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) to recognize those food and hospitality activities who not only meet high standards of excellence, but have exceeded the standards and by doing so, have exceeded guests’ expectations.

These awards give the opportunity for any club, restaurant, snack bar, or lodging facility, regardless of size or location, to measure themselves against criteria in pre-established categories of customer service, financial performance, human resources, and operations. Innovative managers and exceptional staff continue to build programs for Marines and their families. Renovated facilities, new programs and special events, and outstanding customer service distinguish the recipients of this year’s Food and Hospitality Excellence Awards. These awards are part of the MCCS Food and Hospitality Conference which was held at MCB Quantico. The deTreville House is now accepting online reservations. You can now make reservations at MCCS operated TLFs by going to innsofthecorps.com.

Welcome to amazing. Experience the greatness of the new Samsung Epic™ 4G. This ridiculously fast and amazingly powerful superphone features a brilliant Super AMOLED screen, dual cameras, and 3G and 4G speeds. Only from Sprint. Only on the Now Network.™ Save with discounts for members of the Armed Forces.

Save 15%

on select regularly priced Sprint service plans Requires a new two-year Agreement.

$249.99

Samsung Epic 4G

After $100 mail-in rebate. Two-year price $349.99. Requires a two-year Agreement with eligible upgrade (or new-line activation) on a select service plan with Premium Data add-on. No discounts apply to add-ons $29.99 and below.

No matter how you like to do your holiday shopping, Sprint can help: Online: www.sprint.com/dod By Phone: 877-285-1240 In Person: www.sprint.com/storelocator (access to find the Sprint Store nearest you) May require up to a $36 activation fee/line, credit approval and deposit. Up to $200 early termination fee/line applies. Phone Offer: Offer ends 12/31/10. While supplies last. Taxes and service charges excluded. No cash back. Requires activation at the time of purchase. Video: Records and plays back at 720p @30fsps. Mail-in Rebate: Requires purchase by 12/31/10 and activation by 01/14/11. Line must be active 30 consecutive days. Allow 8 weeks for rebate. Upgrade: Existing customers in good standing with service on the same device for more than 22 consecutive months currently activated on a service plan of $39.99 or higher may be eligible. See in-store rebate form or sprint.com/upgrade for details. Sprint Mobile Hotspot: Optional $29.99 add-on for sharing access to Wi-Fi. No discounts apply. Uses data allowance within your base service plan. Connectivity dependent upon compatibility. Government Employee Discount: Available only to employees of Government agencies participating in employee discount pricing with Sprint. Discount may be subject to change according to the agency’s agreement with Sprint. Available on select plans only for eligible lines. Discount applies to monthly service charges only. No discounts apply to add-ons $29.99 or below. Other Terms: Coverage not available everywhere. Nationwide Sprint Network reaches over 275 million people. Sprint 4G network reaches over 45 markets and counting, on select devices. Sprint 3G network (including roaming) reaches over 274 million people. See sprint.com for details. Not all services avail. on 4G and coverage may default to 3G/separate network where 4G unavailable. Offers not available in all markets/retail locations or for all phones/networks. Pricing, offer terms, fees 12906 and features may vary for existing customers not eligible for upgrade. Other restrictions apply. See store or sprint.com for details. ©2010 Sprint. Sprint and the logo are trademarks of Sprint. Android, Google, the Google logo and Google Search are trademarks of Google Inc. Other marks are the property of their respective owners.

The Department of Defense (DoD) and the Marine Corps neither endorse nor favor any commercial supplier, product, or service.

DECEMBER 2010

MCCS HAPPENINGS

SINGLE MARINE & SAILOR PR SINGLE MARINE & SAILOR PROGRAM OGRAM HOLIDAY EVENTS For all SMP events, see the full calendar on page 10

SMP Christmas Parties

Afterburners, 15 December 1900-2300 Brig & Brew, 16 December 1900-2300

Christmas Treats

Afterburners, 23 December 1800

UFC 124, Afterburners, 11 December, 2200

A Night On The Town

Friday, 3 December | 1800-2000 Downtown businesses stay open late for your shopping pleasure. Entertainment will be provided by local choirs, dance groups, and clubs. Christmas tree lighting with Santa himself, and a performance by the Parris Island Marine Corps Band immediately following the official lighting of the Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Christmas Tree.

Light Up The Night Boat Parade Saturday, 4 December | 1730-2030

Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park is the perfect place to watch the annual boat parade. Brought to you by The Beaufort Sail & Power Squadron.

Traditional Christmas Parade Sunday, 5 December | 1500

Held on the downtown Beaufort city streets.

For more information, visit http://downtownbeaufort.com DECEMBER 2010 DECEMBER 2010

MCCS HAPPENINGS MCCS HAPPENINGS

News from the MCRD CDC Our Monday-Friday hourly care service in Bumble Bees classroom is offered from 0600-1800 at Building 115. Please call to reserve care at 228-3514. Our Saturday care service is offered from 0500-1800 at Building 699. Please call to reserve care at 228-3514.

Child Development Center Openings MCRD CDC currently has 1-5 year old openings with limited wait time. All centers are accepting request for care of all other age groups and will be placed on the waiting list according to priority. We look forward to serving you and your family. Rates are based on your family household income. Wait times may vary. For any further questions please contact the resource & Referral office at 228-7279.

Family Child Care

Enroll Your Little Ones Today! Are you looking for home child care filled with love? Would you like to experience excellence in family child care? Our certified providers are located within the TriCommand. Call Janet Knotts, Family Child Care Director at 843-846-2270 for more information.

Military Spouses Work at Home!

Become a Family Child Care (FCC) Provider. Stay home with your own children while providing child care for other military families. Our certification process teaches you to operate your business as a FCC childcare provider.

Kids & the Holidays Christmas Around the World at the Parris Island CDC 17 December from 0900-1100 Please RSVP by 8 December Come in and receive your passport from the front and travel to fourteen different countries to see how they celebrate Christmas. Your travel includes information, cultural rituals and maybe some authentic food items from that country. For more information call the Parris Island CDC at 228-3514. 22nd Annual COâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tree Lighting Ceremony 2 December at 1800 | Laurel Bay 7 Day Store This will be the 22nd year of the Commanding Officer's Tree Lighting ceremony on Laurel Bay. Please join us for cookies & cocoa, music by the Parris Island Marine Corps Band, Christmas carols provided by Dr. Ulmer and the children of Bolden Elementary School choir, and a visit by Santa! For more information please call Beth Huston at 228-7333 or email hustonbe@usmc-mccs.org. Parris Island Youth Center Winter Wonderland Bash 17 December 1530-1700 The Parris Island Youth Center will host a winter celebration as an opener for Winter School Break. There will be games, food, and prizes. For more information please contact Imani Graham at the Parris Island Youth Center call 228-1668 or email grahamim@ usmc-mccs.org.

Orientation is offered at Afterburners (MCAS) for the following weeks:

Fine Arts Contest Display

10 January, 7 March, 9 May, 11 July, 12 September, 14 November Classes run M-F 0900-1700. Cost for the week is $45 and includes CPR & First Aid Certification classes.

20-30 November MCRD-MCX and the Laurel Bay 7-Day Store The semi-finalists for the National Boys and Girls Clubs of America Fine Arts Contest will display their art work for local patrons before they are sent off for national judging. For more information please contact Imani Graham at the Parris Island Youth Center call 228-1668 or email grahamim@ usmc-mccs.org.

Pick up a registration packet today at Laurel Bay Child Development Centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s front desk. For more information or to confirm your eligibility, call Janet Knotts, Family Child Care Director at 843-846-2270.

DECEMBER 2010

MCCS HAPPENINGS

Park University Park University Spring I ‘11 Term | Earn your Associate or Bachelor degree while stationed in Beaufort. Turn your military experience into college credit. Registration for Park’s Spring I ’11 term is 13 December 2010 through 7 January 2011. The term dates are 10 January – 3 March 2011. Courses offered are: Introduction to Human Resource Management, Criminal Justice and the Community, Discrete Mathematics, Aviation Law and Regulations, Introduction to Security, Organization and Administration of Health Care Programs, Philosophy and History of Science, Principles of Accounting I, Social Institutions, Business Policy, Quantitative Research Methods, Principles of Microeconomics, Ethical Issues in Social Science and Introduction to Literature. All classes meet on weekday evenings. Online courses are also available. Park University is a fully accredited, private four-year college with 135 years experience in meeting the educational needs of a diverse student population. Current enrollment stands at 25,000 students nationwide. Programs offered in Beaufort include BS and AS degrees in Computer Science, Criminal Justice Administration, Management (Business), Computer Information Systems Management, Health Care Management, Human Resource Management and Social Psychology. For more information call 228-7052 or visit the Park University office at the MCAS Beaufort Lifelong Learning Center (Bldg. 596, Room 212) or the MCRD Parris Island Education Center (Bldg. 923, Room 35).

The University of South Carolina Beaufort The University of South Carolina Beaufort is accepting applications for the spring semester 2011. Classes begin 10 January 2011. Active military students and family members wishing to apply for admission should be making appointments with a counselor on base and/or Main Campus locations regarding their application process, tuition assistance if applicable, and academic advisement. Payment deadline is 6 January 2011. On Parris Island, call Mr. Les Brediger at 843-208-8149 (Monday, Wednesday, Friday). At the Marine Corps Air Station call Mr. Brediger at 228-7499 (Tuesdays and Thursdays). Applications and tuition assistance forms should be completed and processed prior to the holidays. USCB will be closed from approximately 20 December 2010 until 3 January 2011. Call for advisement as soon as possible. Continuing students must meet with their academic counselor to be advised for spring class.

DECEMBER 2010

The University continues to expand its 8 week course offerings at the Historic Beaufort Campus on Carteret Street in downtown Beaufort along with the traditional 16 week semesters to ensure students have a wide range of course selection. The University of South Carolina Beaufort welcomes you to our full service campuses both here in Beaufort and in Bluffton at the Gateway to Hilton Head Campus. On site financial aid counselors are available for your convenience.

You also may be able to translate your military experience into credits towards a college degree.

USC-Beaufort is now a participating institution offering the “Yellow Ribbon” program as part of the new Post 9/11 G.I. Bill

Technical College of the Lowcountry

For additional information, please call the main campus numbers as follows: Historic Beaufort Campus: 843-521-4100 Hilton Head Gateway Campus: 843-208-8000

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Embry Riddle Aeronautical University MCAS Beaufort is now accepting applications. Beaufort classes are one night a week for a nine week period in building #596 Geiger Blvd, MCAS. Online classes are also available beginning the fifteenth of every month. The classes you take can contribute to a college degree (Associates, Bachelors, Masters Degree in Professional Aeronautics, or Technical Management) or an A&P license certificate. The cost of your classes is 100% covered by tuition assistance.

The combination of a college degree and a military background can prepare you for anything and take you anywhere. The sky is the limit! It is your choice if you want to soar. Give us a call at 228-7585 or email us at beaufort.center@erau. edu, and become an Embry Riddle Aeronautical University Student today.

Register for SPRING Classes! Come Apply and Register Now for the spring semester. It’s not too late. Classes begin 11 January 2011. For a listing of classes being offered you may view the course schedule at www.tcl.edu or visit the TCL office located in the education building. Please make sure you submit an application and select a program of study prior to submitting SMART transcripts for review. SMART transcripts can help you earn possible course credit in your area of study. Active duty and dependents are eligible to receive the college’s in-state tuition rate. New Rate for SC Resident: $140 per credit hour. Anyone interested will need to bring a copy of PCS orders to Beaufort along with their military ID. Are you a family member? You may qualify for the South Carolina Lottery Tuition Assistance Program which can up to 70% of your tuition. You do not have to demonstrate financial need to qualify for this special state funding.

To apply, go to www.erau.edu/beaufort and click “apply now,” or visit 596 Geiger Blvd, MCAS, room 210, and let us personally help you.

Also check the Military One Source (www.militaryonesource.com) website to learn about additional financial assistance available to dependents.

Embry Aeronautical University is the #1 aeronautical university in the world. Take advantage of our location’s convenience and tuition assistance. Each military fiscal year you are eligible for $4500 to use towards your education.

The Technical College of the Lowcountry will be closed for the holidays as follows:

25 – 26 November 20 December 2010 - 2 January 2011

MCCS HAPPENINGS

LIBRARY Samantha’s Corner I would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I will be back in January as I am skipping December to participate in the National Novel Writing Month. Happy Holidays!

New Titles “On Christmas Eve: A Cape Light Novel” by Thomas Kinkade and Katherine Spencer. The lives of several residents of Cape Light are about to be changed this Christmas. Lucy and Charlie, their marriage falling apart, find themselves caring for a runaway teenager who has decided to make her destiny in Cape Light. Meanwhile, Betty, a divorced empty-nester, finds herself drawn to the struggling magazine writer who plays Santa Claus for the Rotary Club’s Christmas party. “Dewey’s Nine Lives” by Vicki Myron. As a kitten, Dewey Readmore Books was abandoned in the after-hours book return of a library in Spencer, Iowa. The heartwarming story of Dewey and the impact he had on a small town is continued along with stories of other felines who have had a similar effect on other communities. “The Dog Who Couldn’t Stop Loving” by Jeffrey Moussaieff Masson. For centuries there has been a special bond between humans and dogs. Masson ponders the question: why is the human/dog connection more intense than with any other animal? Using his own experiences and information from recent scientific research, he examines the bond.

tie-in cookbook, presents the sought-after recipes from Flay’s hit show. Both Bobby’s and his challengers’ recipes are included, comprising a cross-country tour of regional specialties. “Christmas Eve at Friday Harbor” by Lisa Kleypas. Friday Harbor is a close-knit community. When a local radio station personality reads Dear Santa letters, everyone knows the one that asks for a Mom for Christmas is from Halle Nolan, daughter of widower Zachary Nolan. As friends and family begin matchmaking, will any of it bring about the realization of Halle’s Christmas wish?

http://mccs-sc.com/lifelong/libraries.html

Santa will visit the Parris Island library 15 December. His reindeer will relax near the end of the flight line while the wonderful firemen bring Santa to the library from 0900-0945. The newly renovated library is located in building 283 above the Douglas Visitors Center. All parents and children are welcome to attend. Treats will be provided. Please remember your camera as Santa loves to have his picture taken. Santa on the Air Station Library

“Chocolate Wars” by Deborah Cadbury. Chocolate as we know it has only been around for 150 years. Since that time, one of the great rivalries in business has unfolded between chocolate making families such as Nestle’s, Cadbury, and Hershey. Written by a relative of the Cadbury family, the reader gets an inside look at the industry.

Santa’s Mailbox

DECEMBER 2010

For more of our new titles visit our website at:

Santa at the Parris Island Library

“Snow Day” by Billy Coffey. Peter believes that a person gains strength by leaning on his constants. For him, those constants are: his family, his God, and his job. But when news of job cuts comes on the heels of a big snowstorm, he’s filled with doubt. As he comes into contact with others battling their own life storms, Peter discovers a greater truth: it’s the little moments that make life special.

“Bobby Flay’s Throwdown!” by Bobby Flay. This first-ever direct ‘Food Network’

The above list is a small sample of the new titles available at your libraries. Your library now has many of the new young adult titles that were selected from the Beaufort area middle and high school reading list. Come check them out for your reading assignments.

Santa has also agreed to take time from his busy schedule to to visit the Air Station Library on Thursday, 16 December at 0900. While waiting for Santa to arrive on the fire truck, a Christmas story or two will be enjoyed. All children may bring their parents to visit Santa. Treats will be provided. Please remember your camera as Santa loves to have his picture taken.

The Air Station and Parris Island Libraries will host Santa’s Mailbox again this year. Each library will provide a mailbox for Santa’s letters to the North Pole. All letters will be collected and mailed to Santa in a bundle so they are not lost. Please remember to put your name and address on the letters just in case Santa’s elves want to write your child a note. The mailboxes will arrive at each library on 29 November. The last shipment to the North Pole will be sent on 16 December in order to arrive in time for Christmas. Please stop by either location to drop off your letters.

MCCS HAPPENINGS

RETAIL

HOMES STARTING AT $199,000

CONVENIENT TO BASE BUT SEEMS AWORLD AWAY.

A Gavigan Homes Community

I N T R O D U C I N G P O RT R OYA L’ S

PREMIER G AT E D WAT E R F R O N T C O M M U N I T Y .

he stunning private homes of Village at Battery Creek offer individual character, reflecting the distinctive style of Charleston architecture, while incorporating green homebuilding techniques that combine potentially dramatic energy savings with the latest in smart home packages. Located only minutes from the gates of PISC, MCAS and BNH, this beautiful yet affordable community boasts the following resort-style features: Full outdoor living area including a waterfront fire pit Boardwalk for nature viewing, fishing, crabbing and shrimping

k k

pool with in-water lounge k Zero-entry deepwater access to local waterways k Unparalleled k Optional boat slip at the attached marina k Homeowners’ Insurance included in HOA dues k Optional Membership at semi-private Golf Club k Private elevators available in some models k Membership in Gavigan Homes Residency Club

Gavigan Homes is the region’s leading Veteran and Military building company. Call 843-524-7253 today to learn more about our Military Benefits program that offers up to 100% financing OAC and discounted resale assistance.

M AINTENANCE F REE . WATERFRONT L IFESTYLE . A FFORDABLE LUXURY. E NVIRONMENTALLY R ESPONSIBLE .

843-524-7253 k www.villageatbatterycreek.com k contact@spartan-grp.com DECEMBER 2010

MCCS HAPPENINGS

COVER STORIES

Open 7 Days a Week!

1,000 New & Used Vehicles

1 Location

We Support Our Troops: Ask about our Military Discount!*

NewRiverAutoMall.com

Hwy. 278, 3.5 miles west of S.C. 170 Only 30 minutes from Parris Island!

*Some restrictions apply. Must be retired or active duty military to qualify. Must present valid military I.D. at time of sale.

The Department of Defense (DoD) and the Marine Corps neither endorse nor favor any commercial supplier, product, or service.

DECEMBER 2010

MCCS HAPPENINGS

PRESORT STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #89 MARINE CORPS COMMUNITY SERVICES SOUTH CAROLINA MARKETING DEPARTMENT PO BOX 55018 BEAUFORT SC 29904-5018

QUESTIONS ON YOUR

SUBSCRIPTION? Call 843-228-7504

a MCCS - South Carolina

Get a

BlackBerry ® Curve ™ 9300

29.99

for only

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T-Mobile ® G2 ™ for only

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after $50 mail-in-rebate. New activation of qualifying postpaid voice and data plan on 2-year contract required (plus taxes and fees).

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15% T-Mobile discount on monthly recurring charges for select plans.

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Call 1-877-426-2024 option 3 to activate with T-Mobile

Or by visiting: http://www.mccssc.com/

Use Promotional Code:

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No federal or USMC endorsement is implied

Free Bluetooth or car charger not available on extranet. Limited time offer; subject to change. While supplies last. Taxes and fees additional. Must call number listed above and use promotional code. Postpaid only; one device per newly activated line on qualifying family plan. ‘Monthly Discount: Qualifying postpaid individual liable plan on new 2-year contract required; FlexPay, Even More Plus and certain other plans excluded. Discount applied to recurring charges and does not apply to overage, long distance, roaming, taxes and fees, or other charges. May not be combined with other discounts. Credit approval and $35 per line activation fee required; up to $200/line early cancellation fee applies to two-year at www.T-Mobile.com for additional information. T-Mobile and the magenta color are registered trademarks of Deutsche Telekom AG. stick together is a registered trademark of T-Mobile USA, Inc. © 2010 T-Mobile USA, Inc.