The Bugle Boy http://miami.armymwr.com
March/April 2017
SPOTLIGHT ON SPOUSE SYMPOSIUM S2 1 SPOTLIGHT ON HOLIDAY CELEBRATION 2 CALENDAR OF EVENTS 3 WHAT’S UP IN SOUTH FLORIDA 4 FAMILY SUPPORT NEWS 7 ACS DIRECTOR’S CORNER / SPOUSES’ CORNER 8 WHAT’S UP IN FAMILY & MWR 10 WHO’S WHO IN MWR
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United States Army Garrison-Miami Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation 9301 NW 33rd Street Doral, Florida 33172 Director - 305.437.2720
rmy Community Service will host a Spouse Symposium (S2) on Tuesday, March 28, 2017 at the Conference Center of the Americas from 9:00 am – 12:30 pm. The Spouse Symposium will provide the opportunity for spouses to meet and network with other military spouses. Participants will be able to receive information on Military Spouse Employment, Military OneSource, TRICARE and the new Blended Retirement System, Military service and program providers such as the National Military Family Association, Army Community Service, School Liaison Office, and the Military Family Employment Advocate, to name a few.
Sign up for THE MWR eNews. Send an e-mail to: southcom.miami.sc-cc. mbx.usag-mwr@mail.mil
Spouses have asked for a way to meet other spouses. We listened. At this event, we are going to begin with an icebreaker which will hopefully help facilitate spouses getting to know one another. Refreshments will be served before and after the event. Free childcare will be provided by the Child Development Center but advance registration is required. The Child Development Center will not be able to register any children on the morning of the event.
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If you have questions or concerns about the Spouse Symposium or want to RSVP, call Army Community Service at 305.437.2644. We are looking forward to meeting you, having fun and providing information at the Spouse Symposium. You can also find information here: Spouse Sympoisum (S2)
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
MARCH
APRIL
MAY
1 - Military Emergency Relief Kickoff
Month of the Military Child, Child Abuse Prevention, National Volunteer Recognition and Sexual Assault Awareness
Military Spouse, Military Appreciation, National Physical Fitness and Sporsts Month. Army Strong Bands - all month
13 - Newcomer Orientation, 8am-4pm, ACS Classroom
4 - Newcomer Orientation, 8am-4pm, ACS Classroom 5 - Miami Tour, 9am-4pm 9 - Civilian vs. Federal Government Resume, 9am - 12pm, ACS Classroom
7 - Civilian vs. Federal Government Resume, 9am - 12pm, ACS Classroom 9 - Newcomer Orientation, 8am-4pm, Army Community Service (ACS) Classroom
11 - Civilian vs. Federal Government Resume, 9am - 12pm, ACS Classroom 12 - Gold Star Spouses Day, 8am-5pm, Food Court
10 - Maltz Challenge, 8am, Fitness Center
20 - Household Goods and PCS Entitlements, 1-2pm, ACS Classroom
17 - Latin Urban Fest, 11:30am-2:30pm, outside Fitness Center
21 - Volunteer Recognition Ceremony, 1-3pm, CCA
18 - City of Doral 5K, 7:30am, Doral Meadow Park. Sign up at the Fitness Center
28 - Interview Techniques/Mock Interviews, 9am-12pm, ACS Classroom
21 - Interview Techniques/Mock Interviews, 9am - 12pm, ACS Classroom
29 - Spartan Spring Miami 2017, Amelia Earhart Park, time tba
28 - Spouse Symmposium, 9am-12:30pm, Conference Center of the Americas (CCA)
29 - Mad Hatter’s Military Family Ball, 6-10pm, Fitness Center
12 - Military Spouse Appreciation Day 22 - Memorial Day Ceremony, 1-3pm, CCA 23 - Interview Techniques/Mock Interviews, 9am-12pm, ACS Classroom
Calendars http://miami.armymwr.com/us/miami/ monthly-calendars/
Classes and Events For more information or to register, go to the MWR website: http://miami.armymwr.com 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/events/
1103 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, 33132, 305.375.3000
ArtsPark Movie Night, every Friday, 8-10pm. Artspark At Young Circle, 1 Young Circle, Hollywood, FL 33020, 954.921.3500. Free, http://hollywoodfl.org/Calendar.aspx. A family friendly flick each week. Lawn seating. Bring a blanket or a beach chair. 954.921.3500 Broadwalk Friday Fest, every Friday, 7:309pm, Charnow Park / Garfield Community Center, 300 Connecticut St., Hollywood, 33019, 954.921.3404, free, http:// www.hollywoodfl.org/ Calendar.aspx. Funtastic Fridays for Kids, every Friday, 5-8pm, Artspark At Young Circle, 1 Young Circle, Hollywood, 33020, 954.921.3500, http://www. hollywoodfl.org/Calendar.aspx. Dream Car Classic Car Show, recurring monthly on the 1st Sunday, 10am-3pm, Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, FL, 954.825.1027, free. The Downtown Hollywood Dream Car Classic Car Show features dozens of classic cars, trucks and other vehicles of interest. Vehicle registration is $20. To pre-register for the Dream Car Classic, visit wwwCobraJoeProductions. com. Vehicles will be registered the morning of the show as space permits. Participation limited to 85 vehicles. Awards for the top 30 vehicles and the People’s Choice Award. Ranger Led Wa l k s / To u rs , Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, weekly on Friday, Saturday, 10:30am. Free with park admission. Park entry fees apply $2 per pedestrian, $4 single person in a vehicle, $6 two or more persons in a vehicle. 3109 E Sunrise Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, 33304, 954.564.4521. https://www.floridastateparks.org/park/Hugh-TaylorBirch. MIAMI-DADE - www.miamiandbeaches.com/ events PAMM Third Thursday evenings from 6-10pm, free, for live music presented by Poplife, happy hour drink, and food specials and art-making. Active U.S. Military free with ID. 1103 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, 33132, 305.375.3000. Free Second Saturdays, monthly program with art-making, family friendly tours, and music. 1-4pm. http:// www.pamm.org/. Perez Art Museum Miami,
Free Fridays at The Wolfsonian, Mar 3. 10, 6-9pm. Learn more about The Wolfsonian’s collection and related art and design themes during a 45-minute, free guided tour of the permanent collection or temporary exhibitions. The Wolfsonian-FIU, 1001 Washington Ave., Miami Beach, 33139, 305.535.2645. http://www.wolfsonian.org/ Beethoven on the Beach, Mar 4, 8pm. This year’s concerts will feature Miami native Brian Neal, performing Haydn’s classic Concerto for Trumpet, along with Beethoven’s seldomly performed Symphony N. 1 in C Major, Op. 21. Orchestra Miami performs, led by Artistic Director Elaine Rinaldi. North Beach Bandshell, 7275 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, FL 33141, 305.274.2103; Mar 5, 7pm, Pinecrest Gardens, 11000 SW 57th Ave, Pinecrest, 33156; Mar 12, 6pm, Heritage Park, 19200 Collins Ave, Sunny Isles Beach, 33160. Asian Culture Festival, Mar 4-5, annual festival features Asian crafts, art, and exotic music and dance, highlighted by a tasty selection of authentic Far Eastern cuisine. 10am-6pm. $12 per person; Children 6–12: $5. Fruit & Spice Park, 24801 SW 187th Ave., Homestead, 33031, 305.247.5727. SoundScape Cinema Series: Free Willy (1993), Mar 8, City of Miami Beach Arts in the Parks presents its SoundScape Cinema Series, Free movies under the stars at SoundScape, 500 17th Street, Miami Beach. Showtime is at 8 pm. Rain or shine unless otherwise noted. Mar 15 The Walk (2015). Schedule: http://www.mbculture.com/Scroll.aspx?id=81. HistoryMiami Free Family Fun Day, Mar 11, Enjoy family-friendly events the second Saturday of each month at HistoryMiami. HistoryMiami, 101 W. Flagler St., Miami, 33130, 305.375.1492. http:// www.historymiami.org/. Calle Ocho Festival, Mar 12, The Kiwanis Club of Little Havana invites visitors from around the globe to the largest Hispanic street festival in the Southeastern United States during the Annual Calle Ocho Festival. More than
one million event-goers join the internationally renowned block party to celebrate Hispanic cultures from around the world on Miami’s legendary Calle Ocho (8th street.) It’s the largest street festival in Miami and it takes place along 8th Street from 8th Avenue to SW 27th Avenue, which are closed down to traffic for the event. Couples dance salsa on the street, performers and musicians give back to the community with their talents while rocking the 12 stages set up on the streets. Miami’s Latin community comes out loud and proud, waving their country’s flags and wearing other patriotic garb. Listen to the beats of merengue, reggeaton, bachata, balada, hip hop, rap, jazz and more all in one day! Between 4th and 27th Avenues on Southwest 8th Street, Miami, 33135, 305.644.8888. http://carnavalmiami.com/.
Miami Riverday Festival, Apr 1, Celebrate the historic mixed-use Miami River’s unique culture and natural environment at the free annual Miami Riverday festival, featuring free Miami River boat tours, live music, historic re-enactors, environmental education, children activities, food, drinks and more. 1 - 6 p.m. Lummus Park - Downtown Miami 250 NW North River Drive, Miami, 33128, 305.644.0544. http://www.miamirivercommission. org/. South Miami Food Wine & Spirits Festival, Apr 1-2, 4-10PM. Festival features top local restaurants, as well as wine and spirits offerings. South Miami Downtown, Sunset Drive between US 1 and SW 58th Avenue, South Miami, 33143, 786.558.5234 https://www.somifoodwineandspiritsfestival.com/ Pinecrest Gardens Eggstravaganza, Apr 8. Calling All Kids! Be part of Miami’s most exciting day of mayhem and madness at Pinecrest Gardens’ 13th Annual Eggstravaganza. More than 50,000 eggs featured at scheduled egg hunts throughout the day, prizes, face painting, balloon art, interactive games, music, arts and crafts, a petting zoo, storytelling, delicious food and even a wild life show. It’s a virtual wonderland of activities. General admission is $5 in advance or on-line and $7 at the gate the day of the event. Pinecrest Gardens members enter free of charge. Pinecrest Gardens 11000 Red Road, Pinecrest, 33156, 305.669.6990 MIAMI-DADE COUNTY CALENDAR OF EVENTS http://www.miamidade.gov/parks/calendar.asp MONROE (Florida Keys) - www.fla-keys.com/ calendarofevents/ DORAL - www.cityofdoral.com/ DORAL PARKS DEPARTMENT EVENTS - https:// www.cityofdoral.com/all-departments/parksand-recreation/special-events/
FAMILY SUPPORT NEWS Gold Star Spouses’ Day
to and honors the many sacrifices of the Fallen Service Members and their surviving wives and husbands. Each year, April 5th is designated as Gold Star Spouses’ Day to allow America to pay respect to the Spouses and Families of fallen members of the U.S. armed forces and serves as a way to honor the sacrifices that these spouses have made.
Free Scholarship Search Tool for Military Families
Join U. S. Army Garrison–Miami, Army Community Service, Survivor Outreach Services program by participating in a program to recognize our Spouses and Families of Fallen members of our Armed Forces. The annual program will take place on April 5, 2017. Please come show your support. On that day, Survivor Outreach Services will host a memorial table to recognize the contributions and sacrifices of our Gold Star Surviving Spouses. The event will be held in the Food Court from 9am until 2pm. The display will memorialize our Service Members who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the defense of freedom. The Memorial Table will present 100 luminaries, each containing a photo provided by the Service Member’s Family of our deceased South Florida Fallen Heroes. During the event, Survivor Outreach Services will engage with and speak to military and civilian personnel, explaining the importance of honoring the spouses, and encouraging them to take a few moments to write a Remembrance note to the spouses of our Fallen Heroes. The purpose of these notes is to honor and thank the spouses for their sacrifices and to reassure them that they and their loved one will never be forgotten. Survivor Outreach Services will then send your memorial notes to Spouses and Families in our area to express your gratitude for their sacrifice. Please join us by writing a note so that we may include your thoughts to our spouses residing in South Florida.
This year Fisher House Foundation has partnered with AdmitHub to add a new online search engine, Scholarships for Service, to their line of scholarship programs. This new tool is free, easy-to-use and accessible from a mobile phone, tablet or computer. It provides access to the thousands of scholarships available to active-duty, National Guard and reserve military, veterans, retired personnel or their Families. Students enter brief background information and educational goals and the search tool will identify military-affiliated scholarships based on student input. Once the search is complete, students receive a list of scholarships, complete with a summary of eligibility requirements, points of contact and links to the scholarship provider’s website. Students can elect to have a PDF file of the results immediately emailed to them for use in selecting scholarships to apply for. To learn more about Fisher House Foundation’s scholarship programs, visit www.militaryscholar.org, http://search.militaryscholar.org or www.fisherhouse. org For more on AdmitHub, please visit www. AdmitHub.com.
Dollars and $ense Credit score = Credit Worthiness!
Learning how credit works is imperative to According to John Shoupe, Survivor Outreach Services being fiscally sound. Support Coordinator, Gold Star Spouses Day was first Whether you are celebrated in 2010 as a result of a Senate resolution the President of the supported by the American Gold Star Wives Inc., a nonprofit organization of over 10,000 members Samuel D Coston, Financial United States, Donald J. Trump, or a regular that provides services and support to the spouses Readiness Advisor guy or gal, your credit of fallen service members. The importance of Gold Star Spouses’ Day is that it brings acknowledgment score is your mark of excellence.
A person’s credit score is a single numerical evaluation of his/her credit worthiness. The credit scoring agencies, Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion, used predominantly the Fair Isaac Corporation (FICO) information when determining an individual’s credit score. These credit scores range from 300 to 850, and equal your reputation in the marketplace. An excellent score is 750 or higher. And achieving that excellent credit score above 750 is a phenomenal feat that will make you feel good! Companies use an individual’s credit score to determine how he or she, the keeper of the credit cards, manage available financial resources (money & credit). Credit scores are used for various reasons by entities such as banks, mortgage companies, apartment owners, and employers. In fact, service members possessing a security clearance can tell you that a low FICO/credit score may result in additional questions related to financial stability. Everyone who resides in the United States possesses a credit score, and that score is used to determine various loans interest rates. How does the average Great American achieve an excellent credit score? There is no secret formula; you have to purchase items on credit and be diligent in paying these debt obligations on or before the due dates. Continuing, please think before you make that “want” versus “need” purchase. Developing a phenomenal credit score should revolve around purchasing items you need and have very little to do with items you want. Use your credit worthiness wisely! Excessive debt has been the cause of serious medical illnesses such as, ulcers, migraines, back pain, anxiety, depression, and the not-sogreat heart attack. Anyone who has attended one of my “Financial Fitness” briefings has heard me say, “Somewhere between the car you want and the car you need is the right car.” Epictetus, a Greek-speaking Stoic Philosopher who was born a slave stated, “Wealth consists not in having great possessions, but in having few wants.” Credit scores are based on five major factors: payment history (35 percent), amounts owed/credit utilization (30 percent), length of credit history (15 percent), types of credit (10 percent) and new credit (10 percent). It is important to note that there is a 30 percent rule related to revolving credit or open credit (credit cards.) For example, if you possess a credit card with a $3,000 limit, and you maintain a $1,000 balance for the next 20 years, your credit score will not drop. However, if you maintain a balance on your credit card for 8-12 months that is greater than 30 percent, you may notice a gradual decline in your credit score. Given this fact, and the fact that you and I both understand that 65 percent of your credit score relates to paying your bills on time and your credit utilization ratio, do the right thing my fellow Service Members, retirees, and surviving spouses!
Research has shown that individuals who use a high percentage of their available credit are more likely to have trouble making some of their payments in the near future. Let this not be you, because you and your family members are special and let me explain why. In 2015, the entire United States population was estimated at 318.9 million people, and out of those millions of people, only 1.5 million served in the Armed Forces, defending the United States of America and most of the free world. While defending your country so bravely, you must also defend your credit worthiness. Oscar Wilde, an Irish playwright, novelist and essayist stated, “There is only one class in the community that thinks more about money than the rich, and that is the poor. The poor can think of nothing else.” Thank you for your service to our phenomenal Nation & Let’s Talk Money!
Top 10 Things to Know About the New Blended Retirement System The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2016 created a new military retirement system that blends elements of the legacy retirement system with a more modern, 401(k)-style plan. The new Blended Retirement System goes into effect on January 1, 2018. Here are the top 10 things you should know about the new retirement system. 1. New Blended Retirement System covers more people. Approximately 85 percent of service members who enter the military will receive some form of a government retirement benefit; whereas today only about 19 percent of Service members receive monthly retired pay after at least 20 years of service. 2. You can now receive up to five percent Department of Defense (DoD) contributions to your Thrift Savings Plan. Service members currently have the option of putting their money into the Thrift Savings Plan, but unlike their government civilian counterparts, they don’t receive matching government contributions. That changes under the Blended Retirement System. Soldiers, Sailors, Marines and Airmen who opt in will now receive an automatic one percent DoD contribution starting after 60 days, and DoD matching up to four percent of their basic pay at the start of their third year of service — for up to five percent government contributions. Both the DoD automatic one percent and the matching contributions continue through 26 years of service. One thing to note, current service members who opt into the Blended Retirement System in calendar year 2018 will receive the DoD automatic one percent and up to four percent additional DoD matching contributions immediately without waiting two years. 3. Greater portability of retirement benefits for those who don’t intend to stay 20 years. For decades, service members have had to serve 20 years before becoming eligible for monthly retired pay. Because
approximately 81 percent of military personnel leave the service before 20 years, most service members leave without any government retirement benefit. However, under the Blended Retirement System service members are vested after two years of service — the money in the TSP belongs to them, including all DoD automatic and matching contributions. If a service members leaves, the TSP goes with them. 4. The new plan has a trade-off. For those who retire after at least 20 years of service, the retirement remains predominantly a defined benefit in which the service member will still get monthly retired pay. But if you choose the new plan, instead of monthly retired pay being calculated at 2.5 percent times the average of the service member’s highest 36 months of basic pay, as is done under the current retirement plan, the service member’s monthly retired pay will be calculated with a two percent multiplier. 5. If you joined after 2005, you have from January 1, 2018, through December 31, 2018, to opt into the Blended Retirement System. Everyone currently serving in the military as of December 31, 2017, will be grandfathered under the legacy retirement system and nobody will be automatically moved to the new Blended Retirement System. However, Active Component service members who joined after 2005, but before January 1, 2018, and Reserve Component service members with less than 4,320 retirement points as of January 1, 2018, will have the choice of whether to stay with the legacy retirement system or opt into the new Blended Retirement System. Eligible service members will have all of 2018 to make a decision on which retirement system is right for them. 6. The Blended Retirement System does not change when a member is eligible to retire.Retirement eligibility requirements do not change under the Blended Retirement System. For Active Component members, they still need 20 years of service and for Reserve Component members, they still need 20 years of qualifying service. Of course, reservists are still eligible for reduced-age retirement if they perform qualifying service. 7. DoD continuation pay adds incentive for commitment of four more years. The National Defense Authorization Act also included a continuation pay provision as a way to encourage service members to continue serving. Continuation pay is a direct cash payout, like a bonus. When a service member reaches 12 years of service, Active Component members will be eligible for a cash incentive of 2.5 to 13 times their regular monthly basic pay, and Reserve Component members will be eligible for 0.5 to six times their monthly basic pay (as if serving on active duty) in return for a commitment of four more years of service to Uncle Sam. It’s up to the individual services to determine who gets what, but it will likely be based on service needs.
8. New lump-sum option gives choices at retirement. The lump-sum option allows service members to choose to elect 25 percent or 50 percent of their discounted retired pay in exchange for a reduction in monthly retired pay until the service member reaches full Social Security retirement age, which for most is 67 years old. At full Social Security retirement age, the Service member would begin receiving their full monthly retired pay again. The DoD continues to work on guidance related to this valuable new option for service members. Stay tuned! 9. After December 31, 2017, all new accessions are covered under the Blended Retirement System. This is pretty straight forward. The new Blended Retirement System goes into effect on January 1, 2018. If you enter the military as a new accession after this date, you will be under the Blended Retirement System. 10. Education about the new retirement plan is key. The DoD has initiated an 18-month, multi-stage financial education training curriculum to prepare active and reserve component members and their families. These courses will be available on Joint Knowledge Online and select courses will be available through Military OneSource. Final thoughts. There is no single right answer as to which retirement system is better. Both the legacy retirement system and the Blended Retirement System may have advantages and disadvantages based on a service member’s particular circumstances. Bottom-line: Those service members who have the option of choosing their retirement system should base their decision entirely upon their own circumstances, after completing the training and taking advantage of all of the information and resources available. Educating yourself about the new retirement plan is key.
Maj. Michael Odle, USAF
FAMILY SUPPORT NEWS Steps to a Federal Job Search for Military Spouses 1. Have a Federal Government Resume developed and uploaded into USAjobs.gov. 2. Review the Federal Job Announcement to determine if you are able to apply for Joe Pagan, Employment the position. Readiness Manager 3. Review the Job Announcement Questionnaire carefully before applying. 4. Register for the Priority Placement Program-S (PPP-S) if married to a Service Member prior to receiving PCS orders. 5. Register with the local CPAC 6. Administer changes to your Federal Government Resume before applying (one developed and uploaded resume does not fit for all positions being applied.) 7. Do not include your Social Security Number or other personal sensitive information. 8. Network – Who Do You Know? 9. Research various Vacancy Announcements on USAJOBS and include accomplishments (quality over quantity.) 10. Analyze Your Core Competencies. 11. Know what key words are essential by highlighting them prior to applying. 12. Use an Outline Format and Paper Format Federal Resumes. 13. Know the difference between: Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs.) 14. Apply for jobs with USAJOBS (visit, review, and update your information regularly.) 15. Track and follow up on your applications (remain engaged throughout the process.) 16. Interview for a Federal job (practice your interviewing techniques/mock interviews.) For additional information call 305.437.2639, email: joe.pagan1.civ@mail.mil.
What Spouse’s need to Consider When Developing a Civilian Resume 1. Age / Sex / Marital Status. They do not need
to be included or have an impact on your ability to perform the job. 2. Political or Religious Affiliations. No need to place an unnecessary obstacle in your in path
nor should they be considered relevant. 3. Hobbies / Leisure Activities. Unless these have a strict bearing on the job you are currently applying for or if they positively strengthen your resume this would be considered unnecessary information. 4. Volunteer Work. Not all volunteerism should be reflected on your resume unless it contributes in strengthening your employment possibilities. 5. Employer Information. It is not necessary to include the name of your direct Supervisor or Manager, their telephone number or address. If required the employer will ask for it! 6. References. Develop references on a separate page “Professional/Personal” since the employer may or may not request references. 7. Jargon. Be aware of your use of jargon used daily that may not be applicable to the person reviewing your civilian resume. It demonstrates poor judgement to leave it in and will ensure your resume is placed in the bin. 8. Financial Remuneration. Do not include details of your payment expectations. This information will do two things, undersell you or overprice you. 9. Reasons for Leaving Previous Employment. Take some good advice and just don’t do it, not in your resume, not at the interview, quite simply not ever. 10. Employment Gaps. Be prepared on how to explain gaps without leading an employer to the wrong conclusion. 11. Keep it Honest. Deceit will always catch up with you. If there are areas that you prefer not to disclose, omit them entirely or be sparing with the truth, just don’t lie. 12. Ambitions. Leave it off your resume and reserve your ambitions for the job interview it could lead to the wrong message about your intentions! For additional information call 305.437.2639, email: joe.pagan1.civ@mail.mil.
Priority Placement Program-S (PPP-S) Military Spouse Preference for Federal Employment Priority Placement Program-S (PPP-S) provides military spouses an opportunity to exercise a preference for Department of Defense (DOD) positions who meet certain criteria. Military Spouse Preference applies to DOD vacancies only, and there are variations and exceptions that allow local hiring authorities to tailor their policies to meet their requirements.
What are the eligibility requirements? Spouse of an active duty member of the U.S. Military Services to include Coast Guard or fulltime National Guard. • Must be relocating (not for separation or retirement) to accompany your military sponsor under a permanent change of station (PCS) move to an active duty assignment; eligible to apply for MSP as early as thirty days prior to your reporting date at the new duty station. • Need to be married to the military sponsor prior to the sponsor’s reporting date at the new assignment. • Position applied for must be within commuting distance of the sponsor’s permanent new duty station. • A “Best Qualified and Referred” rank must be obtained by the spouse applying for the position. How and When is MSP Applied: MSP preference is given over other candidates except disabled veterans, employees registered in the Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) program, and former employees returning from overseas. MSP applies to federal employment within the DOD civil service or Appropriated Fund (APF), and Non-Appropriated Funds. They are considered separate hiring authorities and generally have separate hiring offices on military installations. How do you register for MSP: • If you meet the requirement for eligibility, you must apply for Program “S,” the Priority Placement Program for military spouses. This is the only way you can exercise your military spouse preference for an APF position (within CONUS.) You can apply for the program through your local CPAC. You will be asked to provide certain documentation, which includes: a copy of your sponsor’s PCS orders; a copy of an SF-50 (if you have prior federal employment experience) or your DD214 (if you are a former Service Member;) a copy of your most recent performance appraisal (if you are a current or former federal employee;) other documentation, such as college transcripts or licenses, as required for the position. For additional information call 305.437.2639, or email: joe.pagan1.civ@mail.mil.
ACS DIRECTOR’S CORNER ZIP CODE GROUPS
Spouse Groups
The Zip Code Groups at USSOUTHCOM are organized by place of residence and offer an opportunity to meet new friends. The groups also provide a channel for spouses to get information about what happens at the command and in the surrounding civilian communities. The Zip Code Groups are a means of social interaction and camaraderie for spouses similar to that provided by the Officers and Enlisted Spouses Groups located on traditional military bases. The Zip Code Groups are organized in Broward and Miami-Dade Counties. For additional information, contact Army Community Service at 305.437.2644.
BROWARD COUNTY - browardspouses2013@gmail.com SOUTHERN COMMAND SPOUSES - https://www.facebook. com/groups/SouthcomSpouses/ HOMESTEAD - www.facebook.com/groups/ HomesteadMilitaryWives
DON'T BE LATE FOR THIS VERY IMPORTANT DATE! Mad Hatter's Military Family Ball Spend a maddeningly delightful evening with your children at the first ever USAG-Miami Military Family Mad Hatters Ball! April 22, 6-10PM, Fitness Center Suggested attire: Formal or Mad Hatter costume, you and your child's choice! Tickets - Children - $8, Adults - $12 Tickets will be available at Leisure Travel Services, 305 437-1595 POC: Joe Walker 305 437-2734 MAD HATTER’S MILITARY FAMILY BALL
WHAT’S UP IN MWR?
City of Doral 5K,
Matlz challenge 2016 at the Warrior Training Testing Facility
M
altz Challenge
18 March 2017, 7:30 am, Doral Meadows Park, 11555 NW 58th St. Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (FMWR) Sports and Fitness will pay the registration fee for USSOUTHCOM and USAGMiami personnel and their dependents to participate in the City of Doral 5k Run. Space is limited, first come first served. The targeted audience is Active Duty Military, DoD civilians and Family members, assigned to USSOUTHCOM and USAG-Miami. Register at the Fitness Center Front Desk. Deadline to register: 6 March 2017.
Time tbd. Must be assigned to USSOUTHCOM/ USAG-MIAMI to participate. Sign up at the Fitness Center Front Desk. Deadline to register: 6 April COB.
Army Strong B.A.N.D.S
-- which stands for Strong Balance, Activity, Nutrition, Determination and Strength. Strong B.A.N.D.S. is an Army campaign which promotes garrison fitness and wellness programs available to Soldiers, Families, retirees and Civilians. For the entire month the fitness center will offer: • FREE yoga and Indoor cycling classes • FREE running clinic 5 May at 1130 (t) • FREE Yoga Fest 19 May (t) For more information on all of these events, call the Fitness Center Front Desk, 305.437.0123.
- 10 March 2017, 8am.
This annual event began in 2006 and is held in memory of USAF MSGT Michael Maltz, who was killed in action during a rescue mission in Afghanistan on March 23, 2003. This is a free event to honor fallen heroes. It is a timed fitness circuit consisting of eight events conducted in order. Register at the Fitness Center Front Desk. USAG- Miami employees Hector Ortiz and Alejandro Martinez pushing through one of the many Spartan Race obstacles, April 2016
Spartan Sprint Miami 2017 Pre-run photo with SOUTHCOM members at the City of Doral 5K, April 2016
- the 3+ Mile Sprint has more than 20 Signature Spartan Obstacles. Are you up for the challenge? Family and MWR Sports and Fitness will sponsor a team to participate in the Spartan Sprint Race (first come, first served.) April 29, 2017 at Amelia Earhart Park, 401 E 65th Street, Hialeah, FL 33013.
Matlz challenge 2016 at the Warrior Training Testing Facility
All employees, (no guests,) may use the near Olympic-sized swimming pool at Miami-Dade Public Safety Training Institute Monday - Friday, 6am-6pm 9601 NW 58th Street Miami, FL 33178 305.715.5000
LATIN URBAN FEST! Mar.ch 17, 2017, 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Outside the Fitness Center Join Family and MWR and Army Higher Headquarters Entertainment for some great entertainment.
Latin Urban Fest!
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SPORTS & FITNESS CLASS SCHEDULE
305.437.0123 http://miami.armymwr.com/conus/miami/programs/fitness-center Monday 0600-0700 Functional Fitness with Frank - Free 1100-1200 Strength & Conditioning w/Frank - Free 1100-1230 Functional Fitness w/Frank – Free 1215-1315 Integrative Yoga 1600-1800 Old School Weight Training w/Frank - Free
Wednesday 0600-0700 Functional Fitness w/Frank - Free 1100-1200 Strength & Conditioning w/Frank 110-1230 Functional Fitness w/Frank - Free 1130-1230 Indoor Cycling 1200-1300 Old School Weight Training w/Frank 1215-1315 Yoga Flow
Tuesday 0600-0700 Functional Fitness w/Frank - Free 1100-1200 Strength & Conditioning w/Frank - Free 1100-1230 Functional Fitness with Frank – Free 1130-1230 Indoor Cycling 1300-1400 Old School Weight Training - Free 1600-1800 Functional Fitness
Thursday 0600-0700 Functional Fitness w/Frank - Free 1100-1230 Functional Fitness w/Frank - Free 1130-1230 Indoor Cycling 1200-1300 Old School Weight Training w/Frank 1200-1300 Strength & Conditioning
Friday 1215-1315 Yoga Flow
Hours of Operation Monday – Thursday: 0500 – 2100, Friday: 0500 - 2000 Saturday and Sunday: 1000 – 1700, closed on holidays Open to Active Duty, Reserve, Retired Military & their Dependents 305.437.0123/0124
Schedule is subject to change $3 per class or $25 for 10 classes Pay with cash, check or credit card Please arrive on time for class First Come – First Served
WHO’S WHO IN MWR Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (Family and MWR) Office of Administration: Director - Sheryl Byrd, sheryl.a.byrd.civ@mail.mil 05.437.2720 Administration - Sherry Good, sherry.c.good.naf@mail.mil 305 .437.2409 Financial Management Officer - Marisol Archibold, marisol.e.archibold2.naf@mail.mil 305.437.1144 Marketing, Sponsorship and Advertising - Helen Colby, helen.colby.naf@mail.mil 305.437.3149 E-mail: southcom.miami.usag.mbx-mwr-customer-service@ mail.mil Toll Free Hot Line: 1.877.291.1604
Recreation Services Special Events/BOSS - Community Recreation Manager Vacant 305.437.2627 Leisure Travel Services - Eric Ruiz, eric.e.ruiz2.naf@mail.mil 305.437.1595
Sports and Fitness Fitness Center 305.437.0123 / 0124 Jill Hauser, Recreation Specialist, jill.m.hauser.naf@ mail.mil Frank Same, Recreation Specialist, francisco. same.naf@mail.mil. Recreation Assistants: Angelique Williams, angelique.s.williams.naf@mail.mil; Jose Fernandez, jose.a.fernandez107.naf@mail.mil; Mitcham: arthurlyn.s.mitcham2.naf@mail.mil
Child & Youth Services
Army Substance Abuse Programs (ASAP)
305.437.1141 CYS Coordinator - Denise Gonzalez, denise.gonzalez5.naf@ mail.mil Administration - Mary Gomez, mary.e.gomez.naf@mail.mil Child Development Center Director - Joyce Kennedy, joyce.m.kennedy.naf@mail.mil CDC Training Specialist - Shante Reese, shante,m,reese,naf@ mail.mil School Liason Officer - Ileana Gonzalez-Posada, ileana.gonzalez-posada.naf@mail.mil
Family Programs Army Community Service Director - Victoria DuBois, victoria.t.dubois.civ@mail.mil 305.437.2644 Community Support Coordinator - Sybil J. Allison 305.437.1407 Consumer Affairs/Emergency Financial Assistance Samuel Coston, samuel.d.coston.civ@mail.mil 305.437.2645 Employment Readiness Joe Pagan, joe.pagan1.civ@mail.mil 305.437.2639 Family Advocacy/Exceptional Family Member Joe Walker, joe.n.walker.civ@mail.mil 305.437.2734 Sexual Assault Response Coordinator - vacant 305.437.1137 Survivor Outreach Services Support Coordinator John Shoupe, john.h.shoupe.civ@mail.mil 305.437.2178 Survivor Outreach Services Financial Counselor Vincent Luongo, vincent.luongo4.ctr@mail. 305.437.0142 Volunteer Coordinator - Mary Ortiz, mary.e.ortiz.civ@mail.mil 305.437.2667
SHARP Victim Advocate - Edward Wilhite, edward.e.wilhite.civ@mail.mil
ADCO, ASAP Program Manager - Guy W. Drab, guy.w.drab.civ@mail.mil 305.437.3078 Suicide Prevention and Employee Assistance Programs Karen Collins, karen.e.collins14.civ@mail.mil 305.437.2932 ASAP Clinical Program Administrator - Marilou Balch, Marilou.c.balch.civ@mail.mil 305.437.1755 Drug Testing Coordinators (DTC) - Wanda Laureano, wanda.y.laureano.civ@mail.mil; Connie Sova, connie.I.sova.ctr@mail.mil 305.437.1744 / 2428 Prevention Education/Activities Coordinator (PC) Carmen Rivera Martinez, carmen.i.riveramartinez.ctr@mail.mil 305.437.3076
USSOUTHCOM
Clinic Office hours: 0700-1600
For appointments call 305.437.1148 Services TRICARE enrolled members TRICARE Service Centers 1.800.444.5445 Miramar or USCG Air Station Opa Locka Domestic Violence/Child Abuse FAP Treatment/Behavioral Health 305.437.0519 Family Counseling Center 305.437.3086 Housing Referral 305.437.2642 Education Service 305.437.2287 Carlson Wagonlit 1.800.579.6681
305.437.2653
The Bugle Boy is an unofficial, 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 305.437.3149 or email southcom.miami.sc-cc.mbx.usag-mwr@mail.mil.