March April 2012 Bugle Boy

The Bugle Boy March/April 2012

www2.southcom.mil/usag-miami/mwr.html

SPOTLIGHT on the PARTNERSHIP WITH THE CITY OF DORAL 1

SPOTLIGHT on COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP

2

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

3

WHAT’S UP IN SOUTH FLORIDA

5

FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER NEWS

8

WHAT’S UP IN FAMILY & MWR

11 GOING GREEN 13 PARENTS CORNER 15 SPOUSES’ CORNER / WHO’S WHO 16 FAMILY & MWR FUN BUS TRIPS

United States Army Garrison-Miami Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation 9301 NW 33rd Street Doral, Florida 33172 305.437.2665 Sign up for Family and MWR e-mail and Send Your Customer Comments to: Mwrcustomerservice@ hq.southcom.mil LIKE US ON FACEBOOK USAG-MIAMI FMWR

On Wednesday, January 11th, The United States Southern Command and The United States Army Garrison-Miami (USAG-Miami) were recognized by the City of Doral for the support and wonderful partnership with the City of Doral Special Olympics basketball team. For approximately two months, the City of Doral Special Olympics basketball team was able to practice every night on the Family and MWR basketball court, The City of Doral does not have an indoor facility. The team won the local competition and they are now on their way to the state games! This is just one example of how we partner with the local community to the benefit of all involved.

Family and MWR is proud to announce a new partnership with the City of Doral.

The Family MWR Fitness Center and the City of Doral will be providing an Adult Basketball League and an Adult Volleyball League at the USAG-Miami Fitness Center. This new program will provide an opportunity for SOUTHCOM, the community and professional organizations to be active and display

their skills on the hardwood and will offer a great opportunity to compete, network, and socialize. Family and MWR will soon host both leagues in our new fitness center, while sponsoring SOUTHCOM teams to participate in both leagues.

Basketball will start March 22, 2012 and run through May 24, once a week. Game times: 7pm, 7:50pm and 8:40pm. Divisions: 35 & Over & Open Division (18 & Older.) Team Roster: Minimum of 5 players/ Maximum of 10 players.

Volleyball will start October 2012 and run through January 2013, once a week.

Game Times: 7pm, 7:45pm and 8:45pm.

Divisions: Co-ed Open Division, 18 & Older Team Roster: Minimum of 4 players/ Maximum of 10 players.

If you are interested in playing on one of the SOUTHCOM teams, please contact Jill Hauser at Jill.Hauser@hq.southcom.mil.

Watch the portal under Family and MWR Announcements for items about Doral programs. USSOUTHCOM personnel are eligible to pay the resident price for Doral programs.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

MARCH 9-11 - March Madness Basketball Tournament

Center Trip. Adult $89/Child $67. Includes transportation, tolls, parking, admission to the park, banquet lunch with an astronaut and NASA Up Close Tour. Speaking appearance by an astronaut. Limited spaces available.

12-15 - Transition Assistance Workshop, MondayThursday, 8am-4pm, Army Community Service 12 - Resume Workshop, Thursday, 1-4pm. ACS Classroom Classroom

MAY 9 - Household Budgeting, Wednesday, 1-2pm, ACS Classroom 9 - Deadline to pay for Busch Gardens Trip, Wednesday, Adult $80/Child $70

14 - Deadline to pay for Legoland Trip, Wednesday, COB, Adult $52/Child $50

14 - Trip to Kennedy Space Center, Saturday

11 - Bench Press Competition, Friday, Fitness Center

18 - Right Insurance Every Stage Life, Wednesday, 1-2pm, ACS Classroom

12 - Trip to Busch Gardens, Saturday

16 - Challenge Workouts, Friday

19 - Interview Techniques, Thursday, 1-3:30pm, ACS Classroom

Military Emergency Relief (MER) Campaign Kickoff MER Campaign through May 31

17 - Trip to Legoland, Saturday 20 - PCS and Entitlements Workshop, Tuesday, 9am-11:30pm, ACS Classroom 21 - First Term Finance, Wednesday, 8am-12pm, ACS Classroom 22 - Personal Finance for Careerists, Thursday, 9-11am, ACS Classroom

23 - St. Patrick’s Day Celebration, Friday, Fitness Center, Times TBA Miami Tour, Friday, 9:30am-3pm 27 - Newcomer Orientation, Tuesday, 8-11am, ACS Classroom 30 - Interview Techniques, 1-3:30pm, ACS Classroom

APRIL 11 - Boost Credit While Liquidating Debt, Wednesday, 1-2:30 ACS Classroom Deadline to pay for Kennedy Space

20 - Volunteer Recognition Ceremony, Friday, 11am-1pm

14 - Transition to Elementary, Middle, or High School, Monday, 12-1:30pm, ACS Classroom 15 - FICO Score and Credit Repair, Tuesday, 1-2pm, ACS Classroom 22 - Newcomer Orientation, Tuesday, 8-11am, ACS Classroom

23 - Individual Ed Plan [IEP] Workshop, Monday, 12-2 ACS Classroom

25 - Training Holiday, Friday

24 - Newcomer Orientation, Tuesday, 8-11am, ACS Classroom

28 - Memorial Day, Monday

27 - Miami Tour, Friday, 9:30am-3pm

Army Ten Miler Try Outs, Friday

30 - Interview Techniques, Wednesday, 1-4pm, ACS Classroom

Classes and Events For more information or to register, call the Family Support Center, 305.437.2665.

Trips - Reserve and pay for trips at the Information, Tickets and Registration (ITR) Office - Installation Services Center, 9301 NW 33rd Street, Doral, 305.437.1595

To report suspected child abuse, neglect, or spouse abuse, contact Family Advocacy, 305.437.2734 After duty hours Spouse Abuse - 911 Child Abuse 1.800.96A.BUSE or 1.800.962.2873

WHAT’S UP IN SOUTH FLORIDA? BROWARD www.sunny.org/visitors/events/ Florida Renaissance Festival, through 3/11, Quiet Waters Park, Deerfield Beach, 10am-Sunset. Journey back to the 16th century as you step through castle gates and into the days of yore. Explore the artisans’ village and view live demonstrations of glassblowing, steelfighting, archery, and more. Feast on hearty food fit for a king while enjoying live performances on stage and in the lanes, including jousting events.

Weekends only, Enter promo code FLCVB to receive 43% off regular admission. http://ren-fest. com/deerfield-home.asp.

Music & Dancing Under The Stars, through 12/26. Hollywood Beach Theatre, east of A1A at Johnson St. and the ocean. Hollywood, FL, 7:309pm, 954.921.3404, free, Every Mon., Tue. and Wed. Music & dancing from big band to country, rock and roll and soul. www.hollywoodfl.org/ parks_rec/concert.asp.

Broadwalk Friday Fest, through 12/28, Hollywood Beach Theatre, East of A1A at Johnson St. and the ocean, Hollywood, FL. 7-9pm, 954.924.2980, free. Every Friday of every month, live jazz, blues, pop and everything in between along Hollywood’s 2.5 mile Broadwalk. www. hollywoodfl.org/.

Lauderdale-By-The-Sea Craft Festival, 3/10-11, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, 10am-5pm, 954.472.3755, free. www.artfestival.com/.

St Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival, 3/10, Huizenga Plaza and along the Riverwalk to Riverfront; Parade along Las Olas Blvd. from SE 8th Ave to Andrews Ave, Parade starts at noon; Festival 1:30-9pm. Showcasing the Irish Culture through live performance and entertainment featuring music, exhibitors, authentic cuisine, beverages, and cultural displays representing the Irish Community in Broward County and South Florida.

Family oriented, fun and providing the community with unique experiences to last a lifetime in the heart of downtown Fort Lauderdale.

954.828.5985, www.ftlaudirishfest.com/.

Coral Springs Festival Of The Arts, 3/17-18, Coral Springs, 10am-5pm, 954.472.3755, free. An outdoor event celebrating art and culture with a fine art show, contemporary craft festival, theatrical performance and full line-up of live music. Bringing together more than 250 of the nation’s best artists and crafters. www.artfestival.com/.

MIAMI-DADE www.miamiandbeaches.com/ visitors/calendar.aspx Gables Gallery Night, 3/2, 4/6. Monthly open house on the first Friday of each month showcases local galleries. Enjoy outstanding exhibitions, free refreshments and complimentary continuous shuttle buses between galleries. Coral Gables, FL 33134, 305.444.4493, www.artcircuits.com.

Arteamericas - The Latin American Art Fair, 3/35. Premier fair of art from Latin America and Spain. Returning for its 10th installment in 2012, it will showcase the latest trends in paintings, sculpture and multimedia. Galleries from all over the Americas will be participating, representing hundreds of emerging artists and renowned masters.

Miami Beach Convention Center, 1901 Convention Center Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33139, 305.854.3050, www.arteamericas.com.

Food Truck Night, 3/16. Beautiful park landscapes and music set the vibe as you mix, mingle and enjoy affordable gourmet delights served up by the wildly popular food truck chefs. Food choices galore with everything from Cuban influenced burgers and Asian-style chicken wings to deep fried Oreos.

Bring a picnic blanket, folding tables and chairs.

Glass containers and pets are not permitted. 6-11pm, Tamiami Park, 10901 SW 24th St., Miami, FL 33155, 786.315.5395, www.miamidade.gov/parks.

Yoga in the Park, 3/17.

De-stress three times a week, with free yoga classes every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday. Held outdoors by the bay, these classes offer a unique atmosphere to relax and invigorate at the same time.

All participants must be at least 18 years old and will have to sign a waiver. Registration is on a first come, first serve basis and the instructor will determine when the class is “full.” Bring your own yoga mat, water,

and towel. All classes taught by a certified yoga teacher. Classes are located at the Tina Hills Pavilion (south end of park). In the event of rain, classes will take place in the Bayfront Park office.

Mon. & Wed.: 6pm-7:15pm; Sat.: 9am-10:15am.

Beginners, intermediate and advanced welcome.

Bayfront Park Amphitheater, 301 N. Biscayne Blvd., Miami, FL 33132, 305.358.7550 www. bayfrontparkmiami.com.

Big Day Birding Adventures, 3/17. The recent comedy “The Big Year” highlighted the excitement of birding and inspired many to join in the fun. Now you can become a “citizen scientist” and birder by helping Ranger Christi Carmichael document the birds seen along the Main Park Road from the Royal Palm Visitor Center to Flamingo. Meet at the Royal Palm Visitor Center at 8am and plan on spending six hours. The Royal Palm Visitor Center is located about a 15 minute drive from the Homestead entrance to the park at State Road 8336. Everglades National Park, Royal Palm Visitor Center, Homestead, FL 33034, 239.695.3092, www.nps.gov/ever.

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY CALENDAR OF EVENTS www.miamidade.gov. Menu bar - Click on Calendar for all events.

MONROE (Florida Keys) - www. fla-keys.com/ calendarofevents/ Florida Keys Community Concert Band presents: Sunshine Heritage, Islamorada, 3/31.

Free, outdoor performance at Founders Park, mile marker 87, at 4pm. Performances are outdoors; please bring blankets or lawn chairs.

Contact: Donna Heiner, 305.853.7294, E-mail: heinerdonna@yahoo.com.

PALM BEACH www.palmbeachfl.com DORAL www.cityofdoral.com/cityofdoral/ Social Fridays in Doral, the Doral Trolley stops at various entertainment and culinary businesses of Doral, showcasing the nightlife of the city, free. The route includes stops at the city’s hotels, where trolley route maps are available listing other Social Friday points of interest. 8-11pm.

Various locations throughout Doral, FL 33178, 305.593.6725, ext. 70, www.cityofdoral.com.

FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER NEWS Military Family Action Plan Conference Forty three service members and Family members from all b ra n c h e s of Service LTC Kevin Ranks briefs MAJ GEN Ayala and the of the MFAP Conference. Photo by Art w o r k e d participants McQueen. together to develop and resolve issues at the Military Family Action Plan (MFAP) conference held on December 12, 2011 at the US Southern Command Conference Center of the Americas. Command personnel and Family members served in a variety of roles during the conference: delegates, facilitators, records, issue support persons, subject matter experts and observers.

Delegates were divided into work groups to identify, review and develop issues and provide recommendations.

process; 11-08 Extension of transferability of Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits.

Army Family Team Building

Army take ten hours of ACS/AFTB or the online training, he/she is eligible to receive promotion points.

Please contact Mary Ortiz, 305.437.2665/2667 to schedule a training for a group or individual.

The Army Team Building mission is to educate and train America’s military Family in a wide variety of ew AFTB Initiative: The Enlisted Spouse knowledge, skills, and behaviors making them more Training Series specifically acknowledges self-reliant to meet the challenges of the future. and showcases the significant contributions of the NCO spouses. Coming in May, 2012. Please Q. What type of training contact the Volunteer Office for more details. is available to Families Mary Ortiz, 305.437.2665/2667. to assist them to better manage and cope with Military the many challenges of Emergency Relief the military lifestyle?

A. AFTB is the primary education and training mechanism for Military Families. It provides our Families with the information, knowledge and skills necessary to become self-reliant, strong, and resilient in era of persistent conflict thus providing the Soldier MFAP is a process that mirrors the Army Family and Commander the assurance to focus on his/her Action Plan (AFAP,) the Army's grassroots process combat readiness and mission accomplishment. to identify, elevate to senior leaders for action and resolve the most significant quality of life Q. Who is eligible to attend this training? issues affecting Service Members, Retirees, Civilians and Families. The conference is held to A. Active, Guard, Reserves, DoD Civilians, Retirees, identify issues affecting personnel assigned or and their Family members are eligible to participate.

Family members are the primary audience. attached to the U.S. Southern Command.

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Campaign - 16 March to 31 May

The U.S. Army Garrison– Miami and U.S. Southern Command will conduct its annual Military Emergency Relief (MER) Campaign from 16 March through 31 May 2012. During the campaign, representatives from each of our service elements inform their uniformed coworkers about emergency funds available from Army Emergency Relief, the Air Force Aid Society, the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, and Coast Guard Mutual Assistance and how members can make a voluntary donation.

These MER agencies are one of the ways After the conference, the Garrison Manager Q. How can a Family members get involved with that service members take care of colleagues convened the Garrison Manager's Steering AFTB? and families facing a financial hardship.

Committee on January 11, 2012 to resolve local MER agencies provide emergency funds for issues and assign a status to each issue: Active, A: Family members who wants to get involved with necessary expenses such as emergency Combined, Elevated or Completed. Minutes AFTB should contact the AFTB Program Manager, travel, food, rent, utilities, burial, emergency from the 2011 MFAP Conference Steering Mary Ortiz at (305) 437-2667 or at mary.ortiz@ medical care, and essential POV repair.

Committee Meetings, an after action report and hq.southcom.mil.

2011 issues will be available at: www.southcom.

A national memorandum of agreement Q: How does the Commander benefit from AFTB? mil/usag-miami/sites/mwr-fsc-mfap.htm. ensures that regardless of service branch, assistance is never far away. Just like all A: AFTB is “Combat Multiplier.” AFTB strengthens MER agencies, the Army Emergency Relief MFAP Issues 2011 the partnership between the military and Family office at U.S. Army Garrison–Miami can 11-01 Spouse work options, licensing issues members, thus improving the communication provide emergency funds to applicants for persons with professional/degrees/ with the chain of command. AFTB is a value asset from all uniformed services and retirees. providing support to the military and its Families and Last year, our office provided more than licensing; enhancing unit combat readiness.

11-02 Deployment; $143,000 in emergency funds to 89 eligible 11-03 Quality of Families of Soldiers with high applicants.

Q: How does the Soldier benefit from AFTB? demand civilian and reserve jobs; 11-04 Quality of life-marriage and Family; Service members may donate by payroll A: Service members who are confident their Families deduction, check, or cash. For more 11-05 Organizational emphasis on are prepared and informed about deployment are more information or to make a donation, please communicating service member focused on the mission at hand. Families who know see your service representative during obligations; 11-06 Digital forms signature and submission how to utilize military services and programs are the campaign or the Army Emergency through the my TRICARE.com website; more confident and better able to manage stresses Relief Officer, Mr. Richard Zimmelman, of deployment and separation. Also, when Active 305.437.2645.

11-07 Loss of personalized TRICARE referral

Army Career & Alumni Program OnLine Pre-Separation Brief DD 2648 Leaving the military requires many different planning stages and challenges. As an Active or Reserve Component Soldier, you have earned valuable services and benefits as a result of your military service. By becoming informed about these vital services and how to apply them they will enhance opportunities in succeeding after leaving the service. Congress has directed the military services to provide each transitioning service member a Pre-Separation Counseling Session no less than 90 days before separation. Pre-Separation counseling is intended to provide an overview of the wide range of benefits, services and programs that are available to Transitioners and makes referrals to helpful service providers for further information. In order to be released from active duty service a required Pre-Separation must be administered or a member will not be able to clear until you have participated in the required counseling and received your completed DD Form 2648 for Active Component or 2648-1 (for Reservist). Do not overlook this excellent resource and remember that you owe it to yourself and your family to complete a counseling session as soon as possible.

ACAP On-Line puts you in charge of how you receive Pre-Separation counseling by providing three easy options for getting started: • You can contact your nearest ACAP Center to receive information on how to register for the Pre-Separation Briefing.

• You can schedule a briefing online.

• You can receive counseling and complete DD Form 2648 or 2648-1 online.

Your military service requires many daily commitments that could eventually hinder getting the services in a timely manner. Start early by becoming familiar with your transition services.

Retiring Soldiers can start using ACAP services up to two years before their retirement and nonretiring Soldiers can start one year before their separation date. Active Component Soldiers preparing for deployment whose separation date will occur during, or within 90 days following, deployment and mobilized Reserve Component Soldiers on active duty for 180 days or more can receive services.

Keep in mind that non-retiring veterans and non-

Army retirees can use ACAP for up to 180 days after separation. Army retirees can use ACAP on a space available basis beyond the 180 days following retirement for the rest of their lives.

Whatever your situation, ACAP is here to support and can make a positive difference. You can learn about your benefits and have access to valuable job search resources such as workshops and counseling. You’ll also find research tools and automated resources.

Once you no longer are on active duty, you’ll continue to receive the same kind of support. Even if you don’t live near an ACAP Center, ACAP On-Line can keep you in touch with the information and services you need. Consider ACAP your resource for all your transition needs.

A Pre-Separation Timeline Guide is available by contacting USAG-Miami, Transition Assistance Program Coordinator via e-mail, or by dropping by the Employment Readiness Program. This guide will serve as a compass mapping a clear course of action for a successful military to civilian life transition.

To register for a Pre-Separation Brief DD2648 (AC), or DD2648-1 (RC) a military member must have either an AKO/DKO login account.

Go to: www.hrc.army.mil/site/active/tagd/acap/transitionacap-centers.aspx.htm or Google ACAP on-line.

For additional assistance, or to register to attend the Transition Assistance Program, send an e-mail to joe. pagan@hq.southcom.mil, or call 305.437.2639.

Strong Advocacy at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Military personnel and Families could not have a stronger advocate than Ms. Holly Petraeus at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). Last year, Petraeus was named CFPB Director of the Office of Servicemember Affairs (OSA).

The CFPB was created in July 2010, with signing of the Dodd–Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. Dodd-Frank’s central mission is to make markets and services work for Americans — whether they are applying for mortgages, choosing among credit cards, or using any number of other consumer financial products. The OSA ensures that military personnel and their families have a voice at the

CFPB. On the OSA website, Petraeus summarizes some unique financial challenges and repercussions of military life: Petraeus says that service members, veterans, and their Families … ...Are an attractive target for both good and bad lenders: •Many lenders know the UCMJ requires you to maintain good finances.

•You are easy to find, so lenders are confident they can collect debts you owe.

•Your military pay represents a steady income that could be garnished.

•Military Families often start young, leading to big money management decisions by firsttime decision makers. ...Face unique risks: •Deployments, change of duty stations, and emergencies lead to unplanned and unique financial difficulties without adequate resources to resolve them.

•Your loyalty to your service leads marketers to tie their pitches to the military, a strategy called “affinity marketing.”

•Frequent relocation can mean unforeseen expenses and a lack of familiarity with the local environment.

According to Petraeus, the OSA will ask CFPB bank and non-bank examiners to keep an eye out for military-specific issues. When we find out about people breaking consumer financial protection laws to harm servicemembers, the OSA will help the CFPB enforcement teams take action against them. There are businesses and scammers that target servicemembers with bad deals and outright rip-offs, and there are also businesses that treat them well. OSA’s job is to make sure that the CFPB uses its powers to make markets work better so they encourage good business practices and weed out bad ones.

Ms. Petraeus and the OSA are keenly interested in hearing personally from military members and their families. For more information, to file a complaint, or tell the OSA about your consumer experience go to www.consumerfinance.gov/ servicemembers. POC is the USAG-Miami, Family Support Center, Financial Readiness Program Manager at 305.437-2645.

WHAT’S UP IN FAMILY AND MWR ?

MARCH MADNESS The 2nd Annual Family and MWR March Madness Basketball tournament will be held in the USAG-M Family and MWR Fitness Center March 9-11. Come and support SOUTHCOM's basketball team as they battle against Miami-Dade Police Department, MiamiDade Fire Rescue, Customs and Border Patrol, Secret Service and Homestead Air Base. Tournament will start Friday, March 9 at 1730.

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Many thanks to our Annual Sponsors, SAIC and Terremark Worldwide. for their invaluable support of Family and MWR events. The Department of Defense does not endorse the sponsors. $15 Referral Discount Federal & State Returns Electronic Refund Products Free Consultations & E-filing Pick Up and Drop Off Service 2 for 1 Special Star Professional Tax Service starprotax@gmail.com 205-578-2778

“We Take The Load Off” Star Professional Tax Service is 100% committed to providing its clients with friendly, accurate service. Let us assist you with the preparation and filing of your 2011 income tax return. All clients are welcome to set up an appointment or take advantage of our pick up/drop off service. Call today for your free consultation.

5560 NW 114th Ave #110 Doral, FL 33178

Monday - Saturday 9:00 am- 9:00 pm

FAMILY AND MWR SPRING GOLF TOURNAMENT! Get ready for Family and MWR’s biggest golf tournament ever, Friday, May, 25, at Inverarry Country Club, 3840 Inverrary Boulevard, Lauderhill, Florida 33319.

We will have both the West and East courses and will be able to accommodate up to 288 golfers. This will be the largest tournament Family and MWR has ever put on and will be the largest in the area set up primary for military golfers.

All associated with the military in the local area will be invited to participate including retirees, veterans, Reserve and Guard units. A special invite will go to family members who belong to the Survivor Outreach Services (SOS) program.

Registration will be at the ITR Office, Installation Services Center, 305.437.1595.

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ongratulations to Team Melendez for winning first place in the Family and MWR Intramural Lunchtime 4 v 4 Co-ed Volleyball League. The league started in October and lasted until the second week of December. Six teams participated in the intramural league on Mondays and Wednesdays for a competitive but fun league. The lunchtime league was such a success that Family and MWR will be hosting another volleyball league soon. If you are interested in playing volleyball please contact Jill Hauser for more information. jill.hauser@hq.southcom.mil.

Winners: Kevin Melendez, Thomas Muldrow, Michael Donahue, Anderson Salgado, Holly Van Liere, Konshinia Edwards, Yizairalie Pabon.

FUNCTIONAL FITNESS WORKOUT OF THE DAY EXPLOSIVE CARDIO Join our new Explosive Cardio Class, outside, in front of the fitness

center, Mondays and Wednesdays at 1700.

Explosive Cardio involves upper body, pushing and pulling, lower body and explosive body weight exercises.

Turn up your workout routine with an explosive workout. Classes are FREE. For more information, call Frank Same, 305.437.1152.

GOING GREEN Organic Vegetable Planting

by Ellen Douglas, Demand Media

Organic gardeners who grow vegetables not only help reduce the number of artificial pesticides and herbicides they contribute to the environment but also provide their families with chemical-free food.

Although gardeners may pick or choose among the organic methods they use to grow food, the basic requirements are natural fertilizers and pesticides, arrangement of the vegetables to “confuse” harmful insects and conservation of water with organic mulch.

Items you will need: Organic seeds or seedlings Seed starting formula Potting mix formula Peat pots or clean, recycled containers, 2 to 10 oz.

Baking sheet or other shallow tray Dark or clear plastic Fish emulsion Rake or hoe Trowel or spade Hose Organic mulch Organic fertilizer

you whether the vegetable seeds need light or darkness to germinate. Use a clear plastic bag in the former case and black plastic for the latter. Check the flats daily and remove the covers as soon as seedlings emerge.

Step 8: Set the seedlings on a sunny windowsill or 3 to 6 inches under special grow lights or fluorescent tubes. Provide seedlings with bottom watering from a shallow tray and keep them at temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 9: Feed seedlings once a week with half-strength liquid fish emulsion for the first three weeks, and then begin giving the full-strength dose every 10 to 14 days.

Starting Seeds - Step 1: Purchase organic seeds. Consult such organizations as the Organic Materials Review Institute or the U.S. Department of Agriculture to determine reputable mail order and local sources for untreated, organic vegetable seeds.

Step 2: Consult the seed packet to determine whether the seeds need to be started indoors. In cooler regions, most vegetables benefit from the head start provided by growing seedlings to be transplanted into the ground in late spring.

Even warm-weather gardeners may appreciate the pestfree start an indoor seed-starting system provides.

Step 3: Mix up an organic seed-starting medium by combining one part perlite or vermiculite with one part compost or peat moss. Alternatively, use bagged organic seed-starting mix.

Step 4: Moisten your seed-starting mix and spoon the mix into small peat pots or cleaned, recycled small plastic containers or egg cartons. Poke drainage holes in recycled containers.

Step 5: Sow seeds in the pots. Consult the packet directions to determine the depth to which you need to bury the seeds.

In some cases, companies recommend laying seeds on the surface of the soil and covering them with a thin layer of potting soil or seed-starting medium.

Step 6: Set pots in a shallow tray of lukewarm water. When the surface of the soil becomes moist, remove the pots and drain the tray if excess water remains.

Step 7: Cover the seeds with plastic. Your seed packet will tell

Corn and other vegetables can be grown organically.

Step 10: Move larger vegetable seedlings into larger peat pots or recycled pots after they develop “true leaves.” True leaves are the second set of leaves that vegetables develop as they pass the “baby” stage; the first set are the small, round leaves known as cotyledons that all new seedlings sport after germination. For the growing medium, use organic potting soil or one part vermiculite to one part compost.

Planting Vegetables - Step 1: Prepare garden beds around the same time you sow your indoor seeds. Spread compost on garden beds or rows to improve the soil’s texture and fertility. A home soil test kit or one conducted by your local extension service can determine other amendments your vegetable garden may need, such as limestone or peat moss to correct acid or alkaline soil, as well as manure, bone meal or kelp to organically add nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium.

Step 2: Map out your garden before planting. If you grew vegetables last year, rotate your crops to reduce the need for pesticides. Insect eggs and diseases lurking in the soil from the previous year are less likely to bother a different kind of vegetable crop growing in the same space.

Step 3: Set seeds or plant seedlings on top of the soil to experiment with spacing. For row gardens, set plants at the spacing recommended by the seed packet, nursery or your extension service. If you are companion planting, set

seedlings out at about twice the recommended amount of space to tuck different vegetables, plants or flowers among your main-crop vegetables.

Step 4: Dig holes at the recommended depth to accommodate seeds or seedlings. Add a small amount of compost to each plant hole or seed circle to boost soil fertility and texture.

Step 5: Water the newly planted area thoroughly.

Step 6: Add a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch around seedlings, or wait until seeds germinate to put mulch down. Mulch suppresses weeds while retaining soil moisture. Organic mulch ingredients include straw, grass clippings, shredded leaves, pine needles and newspaper. Wood chips and sawdust may not be the best choices for vegetable gardens, because they sometimes prevent nutrients from reaching plants.

Tips 1. Companion planting allows plants to organically benefit one another by providing nutrients, structure, shade or pest protection. In the classic “three sisters” combination, for example, corn, winter squash and pole beans share space. The corn provides a structure for pole beans to climb, while the beans add nitrogen to the soil for the other two vegetables. The winter squash, with its massive, spiky leaves, shades out weeds while discouraging raccoons from eating the corn.

2. After planting your vegetable seeds or seedlings, be diligent about weeding, watering and feeding your crops.

Vegetables need an average of 1 inch of water each week, so supplement rainfall with a garden hose or sprinkler as needed. Vegetables with a long number of days until harvest or that bear heavily for a period of several weeks thrive with extra feeding every two weeks or so. Add a 1/2-inch layer of compost or manure near such vegetables as tomatoes, pole beans, squash, peppers and corn, or water them with liquid fish emulsion, liquid kelp emulsion or compost tea.

3. To further thwart damaging insects and diseases, look for certified organic sprays at the garden center or ask your extension office for cost-effective home remedies, such as setting out shallow trays of beer to trap and kill slugs.

References: 1. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations: Horticultural Notes - www.fao.org/docrep/009/a0218e/ A0218E16.htm#app3.13.

2. “Rodale’s Ultimate Encyclopedia of Organic Gardening”; Fern Marshall Bradley, et al.; 2009.

3. U.S. Department of Agriculture; Organic Production; Nov. 16, 2010 - http://afsic.nal.usda.gov/nal_display/index.php?info_ center=2&tax_level=2&tax_subject=296&topic_id=1413.

Resources: 1. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations: First Things First: Organic Gardening, www.fao.org/docrep/012/i1118e/ I1118E02.htm.

2. Organic Materials Review Institute, www.omri.org/.

Reprinted with permission from National Geographic’s Green Guide, www.thegreenguide.com.

Department of Veterans Affairs Benefits Delivery At Discharge (BDD) If you are separating from active duty within the next 60 to 180 days, BDD can help you receive VA disability benefits sooner.

What Is Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD)?

The Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) Program allows a service member to apply for disability compensation benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) prior to retirement or separation from military service.

How Can BDD Help Me? BDD is offered to accelerate receipt of VA disability benefits, with a goal of providing benefits within 60 days after release or discharge from active duty. BDD allows a service member with at least 60 days, but not more than 180 days, remaining on active duty to file a VA disability claim prior to separation. BDD requires a minimum of 60 days to allow sufficient time to complete the medical examination process (which may involve multiple specialty clinics) prior to separation from service.

How Do I Get Started?

Submit VA Form 21-526, Veteran’s Application for Compensation and/or Pension, and submit it to the nearest VA Regional Office. You can also complete your application on-line at VA’s website (www.VA.gov) using the Veterans Online Application (VONAPP). For the VA Regional Office nearest you, call the VA toll free number at 1.800.827.1000. Submit your service treatment records. Either your original records or copies are acceptable. Attend and complete all phases of your VA/DoD medical separation examination process.

Continued on page 14

PARENTS CORNER Keeping Our Families Close

Child, Youth & school Services [CYSS]/School Support Services/School Liaison Office has completed the development and implementation of a new database system using Microsoft Access in order to complement Child Youth Management System [CYMS]. Our program has taken a step forward to keep the appropriate background information and documentation of all patrons through physical and digital files.

Furthermore, generating different statistical reports enhances our ability to compile data that allows us to tell our story throughout our different programs and to work on continuous quality assurance.

Benefits - Continued from page 12 Where Can I Get An Application?

VA Form 21-526 can be downloaded from the VA website at www.va.gov. An on-line application can also be submitted on that website using the Veterans Online Application (VONAPP). You may also call VA toll free at 1.800.827.1000 to have a claim form mailed to you. Remember, to fully participate in the BDD Program, you must submit VA Form 21-526, along with a copy of your service treatment records (or original), and be available to attend and complete all phases of the VA/DoD medical separation examination.

What Else Should I Know?

BDD is a time-sensitive process. To receive your VA disability benefits within the goal of 60 days following separation, you must submit your claim 60 to 180 days prior to your release or retirement from active duty. This time is needed to complete your medical examinations before you leave your point of separation. If you are closer than 60 days to separation from service, you can submit a Quick Start claim. Call the VA today at 1.800.827.1000 to learn about this process and get started.

How Can I Get More Information?

If you are on a military installation, contact your local Transition Assistance Office or ACAP Center (Army only) to schedule appointments to attend VA benefits briefings and learn how to initiate your claim. You can also call the VA toll-free number, 1.800.827.1000. Be sure to visit www.TurboTAP.org and www.MilitaryOneSource.com for 24/7 access to helpful pre-separation and transition guides; employment, education, and relocation information, benefits checklist and more.

For more information or to file your claim, contact Florida Department of Veteran Affairs at: 305.575.3141, or visit FDVA at the VA Medical Center at 1201 NW 16th Street, Rm. A213, Miami, FL 33125 on a walk in basis only, Monday - Friday, 8am to 4pm.

SPOUSES CORNER WANT TO CONTRIBUTE to ACS? SPOUSE NEEDED to COORDINATE the HIALEAH ZIP CODE GROUP!

USSOUTHCOM Community Information Meeting (SCCIM) Zip Code Group Coordinators disseminate information from the SCCIM to the zip code groups. All spouses are encouraged to submit concerns/issues to your area zip code coordinator.

The purpose is to share ideas and make living in South Florida an enriching experience. Meetings: 10am, 9301 NW 33rd Street, Installation Services Center ACS Conference Room. For more information, call 305.437.2665.

Zip Code Groups DORAL, CORAL GABLES, MIAMI LAKES, NORTH MIAMI, NORTH MIAMI BEACH, Mayra Marvil, mmarvil@earthlink.net, 305.593.2002; doralzipcode@yahoo.com HIALEAH, coordinator needed, please call 305.437.2665 BROWARD COUNTY, Sabrina Bowman, scott_bowman1969@ yahoo.com; Nila Mistry, nilamistry1@yahoo.com HOMESTEAD & SOCSOUTH, Kris Rodriguez, sirkesojerdna@ hotmail.com; Fatima Bissonnette, fatimabissonnette@yahoo. com; socsouthfamily@yahoogroups.com

Coordinators disseminate information from the monthly Southcom Community Information Meeting (SCCIM) to spouses in their zip code area and present ideas, issues or concerns to the SCCIM. Zip code groups can organize and meet in a variety of ways, from monthly information socials to web groups, depending on the desires of the members. Programs such as music play group, 9/11 GI Bill briefing and the recent “Evening with TRICARE” are examples of recent collaborations between Army Community Service and zip code groups.

New spouses are identified during Service Member inprocessing but if you are interested in becoming involved in a group in your area, starting a group, or interested in coordinating, please call Vickie DuBois, at 305.437.2644.

WHO’S WHO

Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (FAMILY and MWR)

Office of Administration: 305.437.2665 Director - Sheryl Byrd, sheryl.byrd@hq.southcom.mil Administration - Vilma Lesesne, vilma.lesesne@hq.southcom.mil Financial Management Officer - Marisol Archibold,

marisol.archibold@hq.southcom.mil Marketing, Sponsorship and Advertising - Helen Colby, helen.colby@hq.southcom.mil E-mail: mwrcustomerservice@hq.southcom.mil Toll Free Hot Line: 1.877.291.1604 Recreation Services Office of Administration: 305.437.2665 Recreation, Better Opportunity for Single Service Members (BOSS) - Stephen Ondriezek, stephen.ondriezek@hq.southcom.mil Information, Tickets and Registration - Eric Ruiz, eric.ruiz@hq.southcom.mil Fitness Center, Jill Hauser, Recreation Specialist, jill.hauser@hq.southcom.mil Frank Same, Recreation Specialist, Francisco.same1@hq.southcom.mil Recreation Assistants: Erik Vidal, erik.vidal@hq.southcom.mil; Angelique Williams, angelique. williams@hq.southcom.mil; Elson Sanchez, elson.sanchez@hq.southcom.mil; Dolly Fernandez, dolores.fernandez@hq.southcom.mil; Jose Fernandez, jose.fernandez@hq.southcom.mil; Juan “John” Ayala, 305.437.0123

Alci Montero, alci.montero@hq.southcom.mil; Kevin Ruvalcaba, kevin.ruvalcaba@hq.southcom.mil; Joshua Corraliza, joshua.corraliza@hq.southcom.mil

Child, Youth & School Services (CYS Services)

Office of Administration : 305.437.2665 CYSS Director - Ileana Gonzalez-Posada, ileana.gonzalesposad@hq.southcom.mil Administration - Mary Gomez, mary.gomez@hq.southcom.mil Child Development Center Director - Denise Gonzalez, denise. gonzalez@hq.southcom.mil School Liaison Services - Francisco Brizuela, francisco.brizuela@hq.southcom.mil

Family Support Division (FSD)

Office of Administration: 305.437.2665 Army Community Service Director - Victoria DuBois,

vickie.dubois@us.army.mil Administration - Lydia Sanchez, lydia.sanchez@hq.southcom.mil Consumer Affairs/Emergency Financial Assistance - Richard Zimmelman, richard.zimmelman@hq.southcom.mil Employment Readiness/Transition Assistance - Joe Pagan, joe.pagan@hq.southcom.mil Family Advocacy/Exceptional Family Member - Joe Walker, joe.walker@hq.southcom.mil Relocation Readiness - Roxanna Acosta, roxanna.acosta@ hq.southcom.mil Survivor Outreach Services Support Coordinator - Maddie Husta, madhya.husta@hq.southcom.mil Survivor Outreach Services Financial Counselor - Rudy Tabares, rodolfo.h.tabares.ctr@us.army.mil Volunteer Coordinator - Mary Ortiz, mary.ortiz@hq.southcom.mil

Army Substance Abuse Programs (ASAP)

ADCO, Suicide Prevention and Employee Assistance Programs - Guy W. Drab, guy.drab@hq.southcom. mil 305.437.3078 ASAP Clinical Manager/Counselor - John Knoebel, john.knoebel@hq.southcom.mil 305.437.3072 Drug Testing Coordinator (DTC) - Connie Sova, connie.sova.ctr@hq.southcom.mil 305.437.2428 Prevention Education/Activities Coordinator (PC) Carmen Rivera, carmen.rivera.ctr@hq.southcom.mil USAG-M Public Affairs - Arthur McQueen, arthur.mcqueen@hq.southcom.mil 305.437.2685

USSOUTHCOM Clinic Office hours: 0730-1630

For appointments call Services TRICARE enrolled members TRICARE Service Centers Miramar or USCG Air Station Opa Locka Domestic Violence/Child Abuse Dr. Woodrow Wilson woodrow.wilson3@us.army.mil Family Counseling Center Housing Referral Education Service Carlson Wagonlit

305.437.3559 1.800.444.5445 305.437.0519 305.437.3086 305.437.2642 305.437.2287 1.800.579.6681

LEAVE THE DRIVING TO US - FAMILY & MWR TRIPS March 17 LEGOLAND Adults $52/Children $50

April 14 KENNEDY SPACE CENTER Adults $89/Children $67 Includes transportation, tolls, parking, admission to the park,buffet lunch with an astronaut and NASA Up Close Tour.

Speaking appearance by an astronaut.

Limited spaces available.

May 12 BUSCH GARDENS TAMPA Adults $80/Children $70

All trips depart from the East parking lot at Headquarters at 6 a.m. and depart from each attraction at 7 p.m. (unless noted otherwise.)

Deadline to sign up for trips is close of business the Wednesday before each trip. All prices include transportation, parking, tolls and entrance to the attraction. Prices and times are subject to change. Tickets are available in the ITRO, 305. 437.1595.

The Bugle Boy is a bimonthly publication of the Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation, U.S. Army Garrison-Miami, and is published for members of the United States Southern Command.

Contents of The Bugle Boy are not necessarily the official views of, or are endorsed by the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense or the U.S. Southern Command. The distribution, mention or use of any sponsor’s products, services, or funds by the U.S. Southern Command does not express or imply an endorsement of the sponsor. All submissions are subject to editing. The appearance of advertising in this newsletter does not constitute endorsement by the Department of the Army, the U. S. Southern Command or the U.S. Army Garrison-Miami Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation Fund. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. If a violation or rejection of this policy of equal opportunity by the advertiser is confirmed, the publisher shall refuse to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. To submit story ideas, articles, or purchase advertising, call the editor at 305.437.3149.

U.S. ARMY GARRISON-MIAMI Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation 9301 NW 33rd Street Doral, Florida 33172-1202