www2.southcom.mil/usag-miami/mwr.html
January/February 2014
Spotlight on the HOLIDAY CELEBRATION 1
SPOTLIGHT: HOLIDAY CELEBRATION
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: COUNTERFEIT FOOD? huh? 15
SPOUSES’ CORNER / WHO’S WHO
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 THE MWR eNews
southcom.miami.usag.mbx-mwr-customer-service@ mail.mil
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS
JANUARY 1 - New Year’s Day, Wednesday CDC & Fitness Center closed 7 - How to Create an Effective Civilian Resume, Tuesday, 1-4pm, ACS Classroom 13 - Individual Education Plan (IEP) Training, CYSS Parent Workshop, Monday, 10-1130am 14 - Zoo Miami visits the CDC, Tuesday, 10-11am 16 - Raise Credit Score and Liquidate Debt, Thursday, 1-2:30pm, ACS Classroom 17 - CYSS Day Camp, Friday, CDC
2:30pm, ACS Classroom
MARCH
12 - How to Create an Effective Civilian Resume, Wednesday, 1-4pm, ACS Classroom
3-7 - Dr. Seuss Week, Monday - Friday, CDC
13 - Household Goods and PCS Entitlements, Thursday, 1-2:30pm, ACS Classroom
10-14 - Transition Assistance Program, MondayFriday, 8am-4pm, ACS Classroom
17 - President’s Day, Monday
11 - Insuring Your Life, Home, Auto, Tuesday, 1-2pm, ACS Classroom
Fitness Center Closed
12 - Fashion Show, Wednesday, 10am, CDC 15 - 31 May - Military Emergency Relief Campaign
20 - First Term Finance/ Financial Survival, Thursday, 8am-12pm, ACS Classroom
20 - Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Monday
25 - Newcomer Orientation, Tuesday, 8am-12pm, ACS Classroom
Fitness Center closed
24-28 - Military Saves Week Pledge Drive, Monday - Friday, 11am-1pm, Food Court
21 - Real World Retirement Planning, Tuesday, 1-2pm, ACS Classroom
26 - Estate Planning, Wednesday, 1-2pm, ACS Classroom
23 - Interview Techniques Workshop, Thursday, 1-4pm, ACS Classroom
27 - Investing Basics, Thursday, 1-2pm, ACS Classroom
26 - Publix/ Tropical 5k, Watson Island
28 - Real World Retirement Planning, Friday, 1-2pm, ACS Classroom
28 - Newcomer Orientation, Tuesday, 8am12noon, ACS Classroom
19 - Financial Planning for a Home of Your Own, Wednesday, 1-2pm, ACS Classroom Foreclosure Alternatives and Prevention, 2:303:30pm, ACS Classroom 21 - Day Camp, Friday, CDC 25 - Newcomer Orientation, Tuesday, 8am-12pm, ACS Classroom 28 - Miami Tour, Friday, 9am-3:30pm
Classes and Events
For more information or to register, call the Family Support Center, 305.437.2665
CYSS Family Fitness - Zumba, 4-5pm, CDC 31 - Miami Tour, Friday, 9am-3:30pm
To report suspected child abuse, neglect, or spouse abuse, contact Family Advocacy, 305.437.2734
FEBRUARY 7 - CYSS Day Camp, Friday 11 - Sponsorship Training, 9:30-10:30am, ACS Classroom Re-entry Workshop, Tuesday, 11am-12pm, ACS Classroom Mandatory Overseas Orientation, 1:30-
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/ 26th Annual Las Olas Art Fair, January 4-5, 10am5pm, Las Olas Boulevard, downtown Fort Lauderdale. http://artfestival.com/Festivals/Las_Olas_Art_Fair_ Part_I_Fort_Lauderdale_Florida_January.ASPX. Light up Fort L a u d e rd a l e , to January 10. Celebration of holiday lights and garland by Riverwalk Fort L a u d e rd a l e and the City of Fort Lauderdale. This free holiday spectacular showcases the two and half mile Riverwalk pathway on both sides of the New River in Downtown Fort Lauderdale. Parking may be found in multiple garages, parking lots or at meters throughout Downtown. Downtown Fort Lauderdale. 954.468.1541. www.goriverwalk. com/5489/light-up-lauderdale. MIAMI-DADE - www.miamiandbeaches.com/events Gables Gallery Night, Monthly open house, first Friday of each month showcases local galleries. exhibitions, free refreshments and complimentary continuous shuttle buses between galleries 6-10pm. Coral Gables, 33134, 305.444.4493. Free Fridays at The Wolfsonian, Free gallery admission on Fridays, 6-9pm. Exhibition tours at 6pm. 1001 Washington Ave., Miami Beach, 305.535.2645, www. wolfsonian.org. Fabulous First Fridays, Free Planetarium Star Show (7pm) and rooftop observatory viewing (8:30-10pm, weather permitting.) Later in the evening, check out Miami Science Museum’s famous Laser Shows in the Planetarium. Laser Show. $4 per child, $8 per adult. Activity Room for kids - a fun alternative for your little ones! Swing by the Space Gallery for a few hands-on activities and demonstrations! Kids ages 3 and up. (8-9pm) Miami Science Museum, 3280 S. Miami Ave., Miami, 305.646.4200. www.miamisci. org/www/planetarium_laser_shows.php. Bayfront Park’s New Year’s Eve, Dec 31 - Jan 1, 2014. Ring in the New Year at Bayfront Park. Pre-
show festivities begin at 7pm and the main show starts at 9pm. Count down to midnight with Miami’s “Big Orange.” This New Year’s Eve icon will slowly ascend the side of the InterContinental Hotel, reaching the top at midnight in conjunction with a grand display of fireworks over Biscayne Bay. Bayfront Park, 301 N. Biscayne Blvd., Miami, 305.358.7550. www.bayfrontparkmiami.com/.
Flagler Fest & Classic Car Show, Feb. 8. The 13th Annual Flagler Fest and Classic Car Show returns, a don’t miss, fun-filled, family-friendly day of activities in beautiful Downtown Miami. Collection of antique, vintage, hot-rod cars and motorcycle show put on by the Antique Auto club of America South Florida Region. This pet friendly and family friendly event is free and open to the public. 10am-3pm. Flagler Street, from Southeast 3rd to Northwest 1st Avenues, Miami, FL 33132, www.miamidda.com C h o p i n Fo u n d at i o n Free Concert Series, Feb 8-9, 3pm. Lindsay Garritson, an award winning young pianist, violinist and vocalist - Chopin & the Music of Spain. Free. No ticket required, first-come, first served. Feb 8 at Broward County Main Library, 100 S. Andrews Avenue, Ft. Lauderdale; Feb 9 at Granada Presbyterian Church, 950 University Drive, Coral Gables. 305.868.0624. www.chopin.org/events. html#cfa. Hot Chili, Cool Cars, Feb 9, Hot chili and cool classic cars compete for top honors. Donate to taste and vote for your favorite chili. Live music, tours, kids’ activities and more. Proceeds benefit fire protection at The Barnacle Historic State Park. Event included with regular park admission: $2 ages 6 and up; under 6 free. 11am4pm, 3485 Main Highway, Coconut Grove, FL 33133, 305.442.6866 The Art of Panama, to Apr 27. From ancient ceramics to contemporary paintings, this exhibition in the ArtLab @ The Lowe series focuses on the art of Panama. ArtLab @ The Lowe is an innovative program that provides UM faculty and students the opportunity to organize an annual exhibition drawn from the Lowe’s permanent collection. (Bermont Focus Gallery.) Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami, 1301 Stanford Drive, Coral Gables, FL 33146,
305.284.3535. www.lowemuseum.org.
MIAMI-DADE COUNTY CALENDAR OF EVENTS - www.miamidade.gov/parks/calendar.asp Owl Walk & Campfire at Bill Sadowski Park. Jan 3. 7:30-9pm. Enjoy an evening of exploration and discovery. Start the night with a presentation on nocturnal animals and then go out on the nature trails to see what you can find. Look for nocturnal animals such as eastern screech owls, raccoons, and night spiders. Following the walk, join our naturalists around the campfire for marshmallow roasting. Please bring a flashlight and comfortable closed-toe shoes. 17555 SW 79 Avenue, Miami, FL 33157, 305.255.4767. https:// rms.miamidade.gov/RMS7/Activities/Details. aspx?session_id=47726&back_url=fi9BY3Rpdm l0aWVzL1NlYXJjaC5hc3B4.
MONROE (Florida Keys) - www.fla-keys.com/ calendarofevents/ Collings Foundation presents: Wings of Freedom Tour. Jan 30-Feb 1. Explore the bomber aircraft of P-51 Mustang, B-17 Flying Fortress and a B-24 Flying Liberator. Feel the engines power up and take to the skies in an amazing 30-minute Flight Experience! Walk-through tours are $12 for adults and $6 for children age 12 and younger. Flight Experiences available for $425 in the B-17 or B-24. Flights also available in the P-51 Mustang for 30 minutes or one hour. Visit the Florida Keys Marathon Airport for this unique family fun event. Walk-through tour Jan. 30 2-4:30pm, Feb. 1, 9am-4:30pm, Feb. 2 9am-12pm 800.568.8924, Marathon.
PALM BEACH - www.palmbeachfl.com DORAL - www.cityofdoral.com/ Doral Parks & Recreation events, www. cityofdoral.com/index.php?option=com_co ntent&view=article&id=386&Itemid=630. SOUTHCOM personnel pay Doral resident price. Doral Farmers M a r k e t , Sundays, 9am2pm through March. www. d o ra l m a rke t . com.
FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER NEWS Mission United
Mission United is a new, critical program supporting U.S. military service members, veterans and their families in Broward County by helping them re-acclimate to civilian life. Their key focus areas include employment, education, health, legal assistance, emergency financial aid, and housing. United Way of Broward County created Mission United partnered with American
Red Cross to align existing military services and create programs where there are gaps in support. Please feel free to visit their website: www. unitedwaybroward.org/missionunited. Take a look to learn more about Mission United and the services provided to vets and their families, such as:
• Medical bills
Upcoming Opportunities: Career Boot Camp - 2nd Quarter 2014 (exact schedule TBD) Linking military veterans in Broward County with local employers, the Career Boot Camp will include: Military skill translation, Resume writing, One-on-one coaching for 30 EMERGENCY FINANCIAL AID - Providing Access days post Boot Camp with a Human Resource professional,Key social media tools and rules, to Short-Term Assistance Interviewing techniques and Networking skills. • Utility bills including gas, electric, water, internet and phone service If you are interested in volunteering • Car payments and repair costs opportunities that are tied to Local Partnering • Mortgage and rent payments • Groceries, baby formula and household Companies, contact Mission United at 954.4.UNITED [954.486.4833] or check out www. supplies MissionUnited.org. • School supplies and clothing
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Preparing for tax season
In recognition of the complicated nature of filing taxes as a military service member and in support of financial readiness, the Department of Defense offers tax consultation and e-filing services through Military OneSource at no cost to service members and their eligible family members. These valuable tools and resources are provided as part of the Family Readiness System.
Eligible service and family members have access to a no-cost tax preparation filing service, which allows users to complete and electronically file federal and up to three state tax returns with the support and experience of professional tax experts. The tax preparation software is easy to use, and filings are backed by a 100 percent accuracy guarantee. In addition to filing services, Military OneSource tax consultants provide specialized support to help service members and their families understand the unique tax requirements related to military personnel. Consultations can also help service members maximize their refunds and get connected to additional resources and services of benefit to them, such as no-cost financial counseling services, which can include basic budgeting, money management debt consolidation and housing issues (being behind on mortgage payments or facing potential foreclosure). Tax consultants are available to service members and
their families at no cost by calling Military OneSource at 800-342-9647. Military OneSource tax consultation and e-filing services promote the financial readiness of service members and their families by providing confidence that their taxes are completed accurately, by helping them to successfully meet financial obligations and by assisting them with their savings goals. To learn more above the Military OneSource tax consultants and the tax preparation and filing program service members and their eligible family members can review the Frequently Asked Questions found on the Military OneSource website, www. militaryonesource.mil/.
WHAT’S UP IN FAMILY AND MWR ? Congratulations, Frank Same! Certified physical preparation specialist
O
n 20 October, two SOUTHCOM Teams ran in Washington D.C., for the Army Ten Miler. As part of a human wave of 35,000 registered runners in the world’s 3rd largest 10 Mile race, SOUTHCOM sponsored two teams of five runners made up of four males and one female on each team to compete in the nation’s capital. Congratulations to Frank Same, Family and The conditions were a bit cold for the runners MWR fitness center Recreation Specialist, for from Miami who are used to running in the south his recent certification. Frank is now a Certified Florida 90+ degree sauna as the temperature at Physical Preparation Specialist (CPPS). The CPPS the Pentagon was in the mid 40s for the start certification is the gold standard for strength of the run. coaches, personal trainers, athletic performance coaches, physical therapists, fitness enthusiasts, Both teams had a solid showing with several and those who want a deeper knowledge and notable performances. PO3 Noah Leisman from education in the strength and conditioning field. the J2 replaced Maj Morales from J7, another This is the most complete training available runner on the team, who crashed in a bike in the industry today. Frank also holds the race and broke a collar bone in the two weeks following certifications: Olympic Weightlifting, leading to the race. Noah had been focused on Underground Strength Coach, Power Lifting weight lifting during the three months prior to Certification, CrossFit Level 1, MMA Conditioning the notification while deployed in Honduras Coach Core, CrossFit Kettlebell, and TRX due to the lack of good running routes and he Suspension Training. admitted, his desire to look good for the beach. Nonetheless, PO3 Leisman still managed to run In his free time, Frank competes in bodybuilding the Ten Miler averaging a 7:10 pace per mile. competitions. Frank started competing in the 1980s and is still going strong today. He currently One of our MARFORSOUTH runners, SGT Aisha holds the following titles: Shapirokinghorn, also turned in an impressive performance. Just a year out from having her • 1st Place Masters Overall NPC Sunshine baby girl, Aisha came back to run her second Classic 2013 Ten Miler with SOUTHCOM and managed a • 1st Place Masters Mens Physique NPC FL respectable sub 8:30 pace. Another Marine from Gold Cup 2012 J3 set a personal best on the Ten Miler and was • 1st Place Masters Mens Physique NPC the fastest runner for SOUTHCOM with a time of Dayana Cadeau Classic 2012 63 minutes--6:18 pace. The MWR Fitness Center is very proud to have a personal trainer like Frank on our team. If you would like help reaching your fitness goals, schedule an appointment with Frank at 305.437.1152 or Francisco.same.naf@mail.mil.
on the team trying to change TDY dates, plane and hotel reservations, Jill worked behind the scenes to ensure the 10 team member’s TDY orders, plane tickets, and hotel reservations were correct and properly funded during the government shutdown. We did not know if MWR would be able to fund the Team’s TDYs until three days prior to the race. Jill took time even during her leave to continue to communicate with the team and engage Army Installation Command (IMCOM) MWR on our behalf to ensure the team had the latest information and IMCOM didn’t forget about the SOUTHCOM runners. Honorable mention goes out to the remainder of this year’s team: SSgt Robert Brotz (SOCSOUTH J2), SFC Dustin Groff (J2), LTC Yong Cassle (J3), CPT Mike Buemi (J3), Maj Sean Baerman (J5), P01 Daniel Reuter (J2), and SSgt Deleon (MARFORSOUTH). Great job, Team! If anyone at SOUTHCOM is interested in participating next year as part of the SOUTHCOM Team, the Ten Miler occurs in the 3rd week of October each year and is open to military personnel assigned to SOUTHCOM HQ or SOCSOUTH. Tryout is in the summer, usually around July, and the first eight males to finish and the first two females will make the team. MWR pays for all costs: entry fees, hotel, airfare, lodging, and per diem--it is the one time in many of our lives where we get treated like a professional athlete! It is also a great motivator to go out and run and get in your best shape. by LTC Yong Cassle
The last and perhaps most remarkable effort came from our Family and MWR manager, Jill Hauser. With the government shutdown raising uncertainty about whether our teams would be able to compete in the annual race and everyone
Monday
SPORTS & FITNESS CLASS SCHEDULE 305.437.0123
0600-0630 Functional Fitness with Frank – Free 1130-1230 Indoor Cycling with Monica 1130 & 1200 Functional Fitness with Frank – Free
Tuesday 0600-0700 Functional Fitness with Frank – Free 1130 & 1230 Functional Fitness with Frank - Free 1130-1230 Cardio Latin Dance with Monica
Wednesday 0600-0630 Functional Fitness with Frank – Free 1130-1230 Indoor Cycling with Monica 1130 & 1230 Functional Fitness with Frank – Free 1700-1800 Bachata with Alvaro - Free 1800-1900 American Kickboxing- Free Hours of Operation Monday – Thursday: 0500 – 2000, Friday: 0500 - 2000 Saturday and Sunday: 1000 – 1700 Open to Active Duty, Reserve, Retired Military & their Dependents 305.437.0123/0124
D
id you ever wonder what goes on behind the curtains in the aerobics studio? Learn balance, control, relieve stress and just feel great practicing yoga! To sign up, call the Fitness Center front desk, 437-0123/0124. Angela teaches yoga on Fridays, 12:15-1:15pm.
Thursday 0600-0700 Functional Fitness with Frank – Free 1130 & 1230 Functional Fitness with Frank – Free 1130-1230 Cardio Latin Dance with Monica
Friday 1130-1230 Indoor Cycling with Monica 1215-1315 Yoga with Angela
Saturday 1330-1400 Tiger Tae Kwon Do (ages 3-4) – Free 1400-1500 Tae Kwon Do (ages 5-12) – Free 1500-1600 American Kickboxing (ages 16 & older) Free *Parents must stay with child
Schedule is Subject to Change $3 per Class or $25 for 10 Classes, (Cash or Check only) Please arrive on time for class, First Come – First Served Closed on holidays
FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER NEWS Spouse Employment Program
visit or contact the Office of Florida Department of Veterans Affairs (FDVA). FDVA is located at the Veterans Administration Medical Center (VAM C), 1201 NW 16th Street, Room A213, Miami, FL 33125, Tel: 305.575.3141. Hours of operation are from 8am to 4pm, Monday through Friday. Military members are served on a walk-in basis only.
The Spouse Employment Program is offered by U.S. Army Garrison-Miami Army Community Service (ACS) to provide assistance to spouses in acquiring skills, developing networks, and resources that will allow them to participate in the workforce and to develop a career/work plan. Spouses are provided comprehensive, accurate, and up-to-date information on available employment opportunities, education, volunteer resources, and support services which assist in making informed decisions on seeking employment. Services provided consist of individual and group career assessment and counsel, negotiating salary, career exploration, instruction in job search strategies including the use of the internet, headhunters, and employment agencies, staffing agencies, newspapers and local resources. Resume and interview technique workshops are scheduled on a monthly basis. ACS resources include computers, faxes, printers, and career library. These services are offered free of charge.
Military members are required to bring a copy of their medical records from their local Military Treatment Facility along with any medical records from external treatment facilities. The Miami VA does not accept information on CD for processing claims. We recommend that military members arrive between 8am and 9am to avoid parking congestion and potential crowd concerns at the hospital. Upon processing a claim with FDVA they will be forwarded to Mr. Enrique Carrion, Military Services Coordinator. Any questions pertaining to a claim will be directed by Mr. Carrion to the claimant. Thank you for your military service and cooperation in complying with these new procedures as the Veterans Administration (VA) continues to provide the necessary assistance in ensuring your Pre-Discharge Claims are processed in a professional and timely manner.
Information on personal appraisal, career exploration, strategies for an effective job search, interviews, resumes, reviewing job offers, networking, mock interviews, federal government employment, and resources will be provided. Briefs on Service Connected Disability, How to File a Claim, Veteran Rehabilitation & Educations, Tricare, Transportation, and other essential transition information is provided. The next Transition Assistance Program is scheduled for March 10-14 at US Army Garrison-Miami, 9301 NW 33rd Street, Doral, FL. Registration is limited to 35 attendees. Military spouses are cordially invited to attend. As a matter of policy, former service members may attend TAP Workshops on a space available basis. Personnel unable to attend transition services at USAG-Miami are provided a list of military installations throughout the State of Florida that provide transition services. To register, call Joe Pagan, 305.437.2665/2639, or send an e-mail to joe.pagan1.civ@mail.mil.
For additional information contact Mr. Joe Pagan at 305.437.2639, or e-mail joe.pagan1.civ@mail.mil.
Transition Assistance Program
Department of Defense Pre-Separation Brief Instructions DD2648 (AC) or DD2648-1 (RC) Military members leaving active duty service within the next 12 months are required to complete a PreSeparation Brief DD2648 (AC) or DD2648-1 (RC). This brief is available by visiting either: https://www.hrc. army.mil/site/active/tagd/acap/, or https://www. acap.army.mil.
For additional information contact the Employment Readiness Program Manager, Mr. Joe Pagan, at 305.437.2639, or e-mail joe.pagan1.civ@mail.mil.
Military Service Coordinator Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) Claim Procedures
Effective immediately military members requesting assistance with their Pre-Discharge Claims can
Understanding between the Department of Defense, GBX Consultants/Calibre Veterans Benefits Brief I and II, GPX Consultants Trainers.
The new Transition Goals, Plans, Succeed (GPS) program is a mandatory program for all military members retiring or leaving active duty service. It consists of five day of comprehensive information on transition assistance benefits and services for service members and their spouses who are separating or retiring from active duty within 180 days. Retirees are eligible to attend within two years of their retirement date. Workshops are conducted according to a National Memorandum of
Title 10, USC 1142, Principal Purpose(s) to record Pre-Separation services and benefits requested by and provided to service members; to identify preseparation counseling areas of interest as a basis for development of an Individual Development Plan (ITP). The signed preseparation counseling checklist will be maintained in the service member’s official personnel file. Title 10, USC 1142, requires that not later than 90 days before the date of separation, preseparation counseling for Service members is made available.
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FOOD IDENTITY THEFT? HUH?
GOING GREEN that the “increased use of HFCS in the United States mirrors the rapid increase in obesity.”
Everyone’s heard of identity theft, but Food Identity Theft? Yes, believe it or not, there is such a thing. It occurs when “food” companies label their products as familiar foods, contain no such item, but rather a synthetic, chemical concoction that may resemble said food item.
Millions of consumers are now avoiding this ingredient and for good reasons. As well as obesity, multiple studies show the link between consuming foods and beverages that contain HFCS and risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, and other health problems.
What is FoodIdentityTheft.com?
There are many alternative to food makers. Natural sweeteners are available, such as cane or beet sugar, honey and agave. I personally stay away from beet sugar, as it is likely GMO. Agave is also controversial.
FoodIdentityTheft.com is a website that alerts consumers about threats to the food we buy for ourselves and our families. The website is sponsored by Citizens for Health, a non-profit consumer action group that has been around for almost 20 years and has more than 100,000 followers. The Food Identity Theft Project for Citizens for Health believes Americans have the right to know what ingredients are in the food products they consume. FoodIdentityTheft.com provides important facts to consumers about food safety issues, as well as ways to connect with Congress and government regulators to express their opinions and concerns about truthful food policies. More and more, consumers are being deceived by big corporations that are more concerned with their profits that our health. From breakfast cereals and muffin mixes that call themselves “Blueberry” but contain absolutely no blueberries, to blatantly deceptive food labeling practices, some food companies are trying to steal consumers’ rights to know what’s in the foods they’re buying and consuming. The High Fructose Corn Syrup Name Game was the first major issue FoodIdentityTheft.com took on. The Corn Refiners were trying to deceive American consumers by trying to change the name of High Fructose Corn Syrup (a widely-used man-made sweetener) to “corn sugar.” Thankfully, the FDA rejected the CRA’s attempt to change the name to corn sugar. FoodIdentityTheft.com targets other food manufacturers that mislabel their products in order to mislead consumers into thinking they’re buying something they’re not. From “whole wheat” crackers that are primarily made from processed and refined white flour, to “fresh tomato sauce” that’s actually made from industrial tomato concentrate, consumers are being regularly duped by deceptive practices.
Public Enemy #1: High Fructose Corn Syrup #1 on their “Top 10 Ingredients to Avoid” is High Fructose Corn Syrup, a man-made industrial sweetener used in hundreds of grocery store products. Cheaper to use than sugar, food manufacturers put it in yogurt, breakfast cereals, cookies, crackers, breads, hamburger and hot dog buns, granola bars, pancake syrups, jams and jellies, puddings, ice cream, popsicles, ketchup, mayonnaise, salad dressings, energy drinks, juice drinks, soda pops—even children’s vitamins. High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) is so industrial you can’t even buy it in a supermarket. Yet the makers of HFCS have spent more than $50 million in TV advertising trying to convince us that it’s natural. It’s not. It requires multiple complex enzyme processes in order to chemically change the corn first into glucose and then fructose in order to make it sweet enough. The resulting product would never be found in nature. High Fructose Corn Syrup began showing up in foods in the 1970s—the same time that the US obesity epidemic began. The average American now consumes more than 50 pounds of the corn sweetener every year. In 2004, researchers reported in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
Citizens for Health has started a petition to tell food makers that they don’t want them to use High Fructose Corn Syrup in foods. You may view it here: http://foodidentitytheft.com/petition/.
Blueberry Deception Beware. While the word “Blueberry” may appear on packaged food labels, recent online videos and blog articles have revealed that many “Blueberry” muffin mixes, breakfast cereals and pastry products found on grocery store shelves have absolutely no blueberries in them at all: Instead of blueberries, Kellogg’s Frosted Mini-Wheats Blueberry Muffin Cereal contains something called “blueberry flavored crunchlets,” which consist of sugar, corn cereal, soybean oil, modified cornstarch, water, glycerin, corn syrup, red #40 Lake, blue #2 Lake, as well as “natural and artificial blueberry flavor. Even with the word “Blueberry” in its name, there is absolutely no mention of either blueberries (or pomegranates for that matter) in the ingredients panel of General Mill’s Total Blueberry Pomegranate Cereal. It pays to read labels. Betty Crocker Blueberry Muffin Mix is filled with imitation and blueberries artificial flavors. No blueberries whatsoever can be found in this product. Smucker’s Snack’n Waffles Blueberry contains a new food called “blueberry bits.” They may be “bits,” but they sure aren’t blueberries. You can look forward to some blueberry puree in Kellogg’s Special K Blueberry Cereal, but everything else is artificial: “blueberry flavored clusters,” and “blueberry flavored bits,” along with artificial colors (red #40 lake, blue #2 lake) to give it a realistic blueberry look. Real blueberries are very healthy. Fake blueberries, not so much. And remember what I said about “natural flavoring” in food products...beaver glands, anyone? See The Bugle Boy, Sep/Oct 2013, Going Green (p. 11.) If you don’t mind eating these things, that’s up to you, but I wouldn’t recommend it. At the very least, you should know what you are eating and be able to make an intelligent decision. With this kind of labeling, who can tell? Much of the information for this article was taken, with permission, from the Food Identity Theft website: http://foodidentitytheft.com/. They may be found on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/ FoodIdentityTheft. Comments?
Questions?
southcom.miami.usag.mbx-mwrcustomer-service@mail.mil.
M I A M I - F LO R I D A
Miami Airport South - Blue Lagoon Services & Amenities: - Government Per Diem Rates Available - FREE "On The House"™ Hot Breakfast / "On The Run"™ Breakfast Bags - FREE High-Speed Internet access in the entire Hotel - FREE Airport Shuttle / FREE Gated Parking - FREE Local Calls & Long Distance access - FREE Business Center / FREE copies of USA Today - FREE In-Room Safes - Hair Dryer, Coffee Maker, Iron & Iron Board in every room - 2 Telephones with Voice-Mail - Meeting Facilities / On-site Convenience Store - Outdoor Pool / Whirlpool / Excercise Room - Suites with fully equipped kitchens, and separate living & dining room areas - ADA compliant / Non-smoking floors
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CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER NEWS
T
hank you to all the parents who participated in the Child Development Center’s Thanksgiving luncheon on November 20th. Parents spent time with their children and other parents while enjoying the Thanksgiving meal. The event was a great success and the children really enjoyed having their parents join them.
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Department of Defense Pre-Separation Brief Instructions DD2648 (AC) or DD2648-1 (RC) Pre-Separation Briefs are effective for 18 months for military members leaving active duty service. For retirees Pre-Separation Briefs are effective for 24 months. An AKO Password/Login ID is necessary to access this brief using the Army Career Alumni Program (ACAP). Select Fort Stewart Georgia as you nearest military installation.
• Where: USAG-Miami, Installation Services Transition GPS Course Enrollment “Tip Sheet” Center, Army Community Service Classroom, E2008, 9301 NW 33rd Street, Step 1: Login to JKO Learning Content Management System (LCMS). Go to https:// Doral, FL 33172. jkodirect.jten.mil and click “OK” on the DoD For those interested in learning more Warning Banner. Under “Login Options” click about interviewing, consider attending the “Login with CAC” and select your current CAC certificate in the “Select Certificate” pop up “Interviewing/Mock Techniques Workshop.” box and click “OK.” Non-CAC users follow • When: Thursday, January 23, 2014, or instructions provided on the login page to submit an account request to the JKO Help Desk. Wednesday, February 12, 2014 • Time: 1pm to 4pm • Where: USAG-Miami, Installation Services Center, Army Community Service Classroom, E2008, 9301 NW 33rd Street, Doral, FL 33172. All attendees will receive resources to include a copy of Quick Resume Guide Six Steps to Building an Effective Resume, or an Interview Guide when attending “Interviewing/Mock Techniques Workshop.
Upon completing the brief you must call 24/7 ACAP’s at 1-800-325-4715 to speak with an ACAP Counselor for your initial counseling session. A copy of your Pre-Separation Brief DD2648 (AC) or DD2648-1 (RC) will be electronically signed and sent to the e-mail provided. For additional information call Joe Pagan at 305.437.2639, or e-mail joe.pagan1.civ@mail.mil.
Resume and Interview/Mock Technique Workshops The civilian resume is a selling tool that outlines your skills and experiences so an employer can see, at a glance, how you can contribute to the employer’s workplace. More to the point, what we are actually doing is applying for an interview. Only in the rarest of cases will a resume in and of itself directly secure a job offer. The goal of an effective civilian resume is to highlight and summarize a person’s qualifications. If you’re interested in learning more about the three types of civilian resumes; Chronological, Functional, and Combination, consider attending a How to Create an Effective Civilian Resume workshop. • When: Tuesday, January 7, 2014, or Wednesday, February 5, 2014 • Time: 1pm to 4pm
Step 2: Select the course. Find courses in JKO by clicking the “Course Catalog” tab at top of the LCMS page. Search for Transition GPS course(s) by using the search field above column “Course Number” and enter “TGPS” and clicking the “Search” button. Your screen will update showing all 10 TGPS courses. You can also browse the catalog using key words. For example, you can enter key words such as “Transition Overview” or “Federal Employment” in the search box above the “Title” column, click “Search” and it will return a listing of all courses in the JKO database containing that topic in the title.
Space is available for 14 attendees. Step 3: Enroll in the course. To enroll in a course, click the purple “Enroll” button associated with that course in the “Course Status” column. To register, send an e-mail to joe.pagan1.civ@ When prompted to confirm course enrollment selection, click “Continue.” The course will mail.mil, or call 305 437-2639. move to the “My Training” tab. You can start the course at this time by clicking the “Launch” Transition Goals Plans Success (GPS) button; otherwise, you can start the course at a time or resume a course by following the Course Enrollment Procedures on JKO later directions in Step 4. Spouses are highly encouraged to attend.
Step 4: Launch the course. To launch the course, click the “My Training” tab at the top of the page and click the “Launch” button within the course listing. The course title and “Launch” button will remain in the course listing until you have completed the course. After completing a course it should transition from the course listing in your “My Training” tab to the “Certificates” tab and you will receive a completion notice via e-mail. If the course remains listed in the “My Training” tab, click the Refresh icon. To access and print the course completion certificate, click the “Certificate” tab and then click the “Certificate” icon in the “Certificate” column at the right of the course title. Your course completion certificate will display for printing and saving. Military members unable to access the Army Career Alumni Program Online are able to For additional information or questions regarding register with Joint Knowledge Online (JKO) to your military to civilian life transition process call complete their Veteran Opportunity to Work 305.437.2639, or e-mail joe.pagan1.civ@mail.mil. (VOW) Mandates except their Pre-Separation Brief DD2648.
ACS DIRECTOR’S CORNER ZIP CODE 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 and Homestead. For additional information, contact Army Community Service at 305.437.2665 or one of the Zip Code Group Coordinators listed below:
Zip Code Group Coordinators MIAMI-DADE - Facebook link for the group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/MiamiDadeZCG Facebook e-mail for the group: MiamiDadeZCG@groups.facebook.com BROWARD COUNTY - browardspouses2013@gmail.com
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ALL VETERANS - FRAUD ALERT Veterans should be aware of a marketing scam targeting callers trying to reach the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) National Call Center or GI Bill Call Center. A marketing company has established two fraudulent numbers that differ from the two official VA call center numbers by one digit. If the fraudulent number is dialed by mistake, the answering party will offer a gift card and try to obtain personal and financial information, including credit card information, from the caller. The answering party may even transfer the caller to the VA after the caller’s information is obtained. Note that VA will never ask you for a credit card number or banking information over the phone. Before giving personal sensitive information over the phone make sure you know who you are taking to.
SOCSOUTH - LTC Stewart Mason, 786.415.6202, stewart. mason@socso.southcom.mil or www.facebook.com/groups/socsouthredfam
The numbers to be avoided are: 800-872-1000 (the VA National Call Center number is 800-827-1000) 888-442-4511 (the VA GI Bill Call Center number is 888-442-4551)
HOMESTEAD - www.facebook.com/groups/ HomesteadMilitaryWives
VA has notified law enforcement authorities to address this situation.
WHO’S WHO Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (Family and MWR)
Child, Youth & School Services (CYS Services) 305.437.1141
Office of Administration: Director - Sheryl Byrd, sheryl.a.byrd.civ@mail.mil 305.437.2720 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
CYSS Coordinator - Francisco Brizuela, francisco.j.brizuela.naf@mail.mil Administration - Mary Gomez, mary.e.gomez.naf@mail.mil Child Development Center Director - Denise Gonzalez, denise.gonzalez5.naf@mail.mil Outreach Services Director - Ileana Gonzalez-Posada, ileana.gonzalez-posada.naf@mail.mil School Liaison Services - Vacant
Family Programs Recreation Services Special Events/BOSS - Community Recreation Manager Stephen Ondriezek 305.437.2627 Stephen.c.ondriezek.civ@mail.mil Leisure Travel Services - Eric Ruiz, 305.437.1595 Eric.e.ruiz2.civ@mail.mil; Jenny Livesey, jenny.I.livesey.naf@mail.mil Fitness Center 305.437.0123 / 0124 Jill Hauser, Recreation Specialist, jill.m.hauser.civ@mail.mil ; Frank Same, Recreation Specialist, francisco.same.naf@ mail.mil; Angelique Williams, angelique.s.williams.naf@ mail.mil; Jose Fernandez, jose.a.fernandez107.naf@mail. mil; Alci Montero, alci.j.montero.naf@mail.mil; Marcus Deoliveira, oliveira.m.de2.naf@mail.mil; Dolly Fernandez, dolores.r.fernandez.naf@mail.mil; Bell Cantor, bell. cantor2.naf@mail.mil
Army Substance Abuse Programs (ASAP) ADCO, ASAP Program Manager - Guy W. Drab, guy.w.drab.civ@mail.mil 305.437.3078 Suicide Prevention and Employee Assistance Programs Cheryl A. Davis, cheryl.a.davis10.civ@mail.mil 305.437.2932 ASAP Clinical Program Administrator - Marilou Balch, Marilou.c.balch.civ@mail.mil 305.437.3085 Drug Testing Coordinators (DTC) - Wanda Laureano, wanda.y.laureano.civ@mail.mil and 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
Army Community Service Director - Victoria DuBois, victoria.t.dubois.civ@mail.mil 305.437.2644 Consumer Affairs/Emergency Financial Assistance - Richard Zimmelman, richard.c.zimmelman.civ@mail.mil 305.437.2645 Employment Readiness/Transition Assistance 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 Relocation Readiness - Vilma Lesesne, vilma.m.lesesne.civ@mail.mil 305.437.1958 Survivor Outreach Services Support Coordinator Maddie Husta, madhya.I.husta.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
USSOUTHCOM
Clinic Office hours: 0700-1600
For appointments call 305.437.3559 Services TRICARE enrolled members TRICARE Service Centers 1.800.444.5445 Miramar or USCG Air Station Opa Locka Domestic Violence/Child Abuse Dr. Woodrow Wilson 305.437.0519 woodrow.wilson3@us.army.mil Family Counseling Center 305.437.3086 Housing Referral 305.437.2642 Education Service 305.437.2287 Carlson Wagonlit 1.800.579.6681
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 the editor at 305.437.3149 or e-mail southcom.miami.usag.mbx-mwr-customer-service@mail.mil.