The Bugle Boy www2.southcom.mil/usag-miami/mwr.html
November/December 2013
Spotlight on the MILITARY SPOUSE SYMPOSIUM 1
SPOTLIGHT: MILITARY SPOUSE SYMPOSIUM
A Military Spouse Symposium was held Saturday, 7 September.
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS
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WHAT’S UP IN SOUTH FLORIDA
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FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER NEWS
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WHAT’S UP IN FAMILY & MWR
The Spouse Symposium provided information and resources for all military spouses with a special focus on the newly-arrived military personnel and spouses. Since the U.S. Southern Command is not located on a traditional military installation, the event provided a unique opportunity for community agencies, organizations, businesses and attractions to participate. and share information.
11 GOING GREEN: What are GMOs? 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
Military spouses were invited to showcase home businesses at the Community Information Fair held in the afternoon. Approximately 80 individuals attended the formal briefings presented on the U.S. Southern Command, the U.S. Army Garrison-Miami, School Liaison Services, Military Spouse Employment and TRICARE. The Community Information Fair had 46 command and community partners as well as spouse homebased businesses providing information on programs
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Photos by Art McQueen
and resources available to our military families. The Broward and Miami-Dade Zip Code Group coordinators attended both events to introduce themselves and to enable new spouses to join the groups. Photos from the Spouse Symposium as well as the companion event for children, Summer Splash, are located at the following website: www.flickr.com/ photos/usag-miami/sets/72157635449090251/. A special thank you to all the spouses and community-based businesses who participated in the Community Information Fair. A tremendous thank you all of our sponsors: Ardyss International; BC Spa’s with Robin; City of Doral Parks Department; Embassy Suites; Esslinger, Wooten, Maxwell; Hosa International; Initials, Inc; Kids Corner; Marriott Hotels; McDonald Realty; Miami Dade Defense Alliance; Miller’s Ale House, Petra Sera Photography; Signature Real Estate, Lisa Trismen (Silpada); Wonder Kids Academy.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
NOVEMBER
DECEMBER
13 - Individual Education Plan (IEP) Training, CYSS Parent Workshop, Monday, 10-1130am
7 - Household Goods and PCS Entitlements, Thursday, 1-2:30pm, Army Community Service (ACS) Classroom
5 - Chanukah ends, Thursday
14 - The Zoo visits the CDC, Tuesday, 10am
11 - CYSS Winter Wonderland, Wednesday, 10am, Fitness Center
16 - Raise Credit Score and Liquidate Debt, Thursday, 1-2:30pm, ACS Classroom
Day Camp, Child Development Center (CDC) (Miami-Dade Teacher Planning Day) 9 - Dragon Boat Race, Saturday, 8am-5pm, Miami Marine Stadium
17 - Sponsorship Training, Tuesday, 9:30-10:30am, ACS Classroom Re-entry Workshop, 11am-12noon, ACS Classroom Mandatory Overseas Training, 1:30-2:30pm, ACS Classroom
11 - Veteran’s Day, Monday 13 - Investing Basics, Wednesday, 1-2pm, ACS Classroom
CYSS Toy Giveaway, 10am2pm, Gym
14 - How to Create an Effective Civilian Resume, Thursday, 1-4pm, ACS Classroom
20 - CYSS Day Camp, Friday, CDC
19 - Newcomer Orientation, Tuesday, 8am12noon, ACS Classroom
24 - CDC closed
20 - Parent Luncheon, Wednesday, 11am-12pm, CDC 21 - First Term Finance/Financial Survival, Thursday, 8am-12pm, ACS Classroom Individual Education Plan (IEP) Training, 1011:30am, CR E2025 22 - Miami Tour, Friday, 9am-3:30pm
1-4pm, ACS Classroom
20 - Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Monday
Interview Techniques Workshop,
25 - Child Youth and School Services (CYSS) Day Camp, Monday, CDC (Teacher Planning Day, Broward and Miami-Dade Counties) 27 - Chanukah begins, Wednesday (through December 5)
Fitness Center closed 21 - Real World Retirement Planning, Tuesday, 1-2pm, ACS Classroom 23 - Interview Techniques Workshop, Thursday, 1-4pm, ACS Classroom 24 - CYSS Day Camp, Friday, CDC 26 - Publix/ Tropical 5k, Watson Island
25 - Christmas Day, Wednesday CDC & Fitness Center closed
28 - Newcomer Orientation, Tuesday, 8am12noon, ACS Classroom
31 - New Year’s Eve, Tuesday
JANUARY
CYSS Family Fitness - Zumba, 4pm, CDC
1 - New Year’s Day, Wednesday
31 - Miami Tour, Friday, 9am3:30pm
CDC & Fitness Center closed 7 - How to Create an Effective Civilian Resume, Tuesday, 1-4pm, ACS Classroom
Classes and Events
For more information or to register, call the Family Support Center, 305.437.2665
To report suspected child abuse, neglect, or spouse abuse, contact Family Advocacy, 305.437.2734
28- Thanksgiving, Thursday CDC & Fitness Center Closed
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/ First Friday Jazz Jams Student Musicians Jam With Pros First Fridays, 7:30-9:30pm, Nov 1, 2013, Dec 6, Jan 3, 2014, Feb 7, Mar 7, Apr 4, May 2, Jun 6. Student musicians bring your instrument and jam with the pros! Audience members of all ages welcome! Free. Presented by Gold Coast Jazz Society. Art Serve, 1350 E. Sunrise Blvd, Fort Lauderdale. 954.524.0805, https://www.goldcoastjazz.org/secure/events/ special_events.php. MIAMI-DADE - www.miamiandbeaches.com/events Free movies every Wednesday night under the stars at SoundScape, 500 17th Street, Miami Beach. City of Miami Beach Arts in the Parks presents SoundScape Cinema Series, show time, 8pm. Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory, Nov 6; Ben Hur, Nov 13; Nov 20: Hello, Dolly!; Nov 27: Skyfall; Dec 4: Art Basel Miami Beach Video Art; Dec 11: Man Of Steel; Dec 18: Xanadu. Miccosukee Indian Arts Festival, Dec 26 - Jan 1 2014. Experience the color and pageantry of costumed Native Americans from all over the country. Arts, crafts, music, dance, native foods and more. This annual event is highlighted by vibrant, multi-colored paintings and clothing designed by Native American artisans. Entertainment and fun-filled activities for adults and children. Miccosukee Indian Village, Mile Marker 70, US Highway 41 (Tamiami Trail) Miami, 305.480.1924, www.miccosukee.com/ Annual_Events/MiccosukeeIndianArtsFestival. 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.
Miami Art Museum - Second Saturdays Are Free For Families, fun, interactive programs. Families of all ages explore Miami Art Museum together, find inspiration to create works of art, and participate in hands-on activities led by education staff. 1-4pm. Miami Art Museum, 101 W. Flagler St., Miami, 305.375.3000, www. miamiartmuseum.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 Admission: $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. (89pm) 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 beautiful Biscayne Bay. Bayfront Park, 301 N. Biscayne Blvd., Miami, 305.358.7550. www. bayfrontparkmiami.com/. MIAMI-DADE COUNTY CALENDAR OF EVENTS - www.miamidade.gov/parks/calendar.asp Greynolds Park: Creatures of the Night, Nov 8, 7:30-9pm, 17530 West Dixie Highway, N. Miami. Fascinated by the moon and the stars or even glow bugs? Then learn about the mysteries of the night and see what lurks around our park when the lights go out! Naturalists will take you through the park in search of nocturnal residents. 305.949.1741. https://rms.miamidade. gov/RMS7/Activities/Details.aspx?session_ id=47570&back_url=fi9BY3Rpdml0aWVzL1NlYX JjaC5hc3B4. $6. Oleta River Canoe Tour, November 10, 10am12:30pm. The beauty of the Oleta River has drawn people to its shore for centuries. As early as 500 B.C., the river was home to the Tequesta Indians who camped along its shore and was part of the route used by Federal troops in the Second
Seminole War to travel south from Loxahatchee. The river linked Seminoles living in the Everglades to Biscayne Bay. Relive the river’s historic past with park naturalists, as you explore this natural haven for wading birds, osprey, fish, and the endangered manatee. 1855 NE 135th Street, North Miami, 305.944.6111. http://miamidade.gov/wps/Events/EventDetail. jsp?eventID=375767. $28/person. Thanksgiving Themed Campfire and Night Walk, Nov 15, 6-8:30pm. Special seasonallythemed program on local wildlife. Look for nocturnal animals on the walk, followed by activities such as marshmallow roasting around the campfire. Please bring a flashlight, comfortable closed-toe shoes and marshmallows to roast (wear your Halloween costume if desired). Castellow Hammock Park, 22301 SW 162nd Ave, Miami, 305.242.7688. https://rms.miamidade.gov/RMS7/Activities/ Details.aspx?session_id=47555&back_url=fi9B Y3Rpdml0aWVzL1NlYXJjaC5hc3B4. $5/person.
MONROE (Florida Keys) - www.fla-keys.com/ calendarofevents/ Aviation Day & Open House at Marathon Airport Refurbished h i s t o r i c “warbirds” and home-built airplanes are to be displayed at the airport and aviation museum, located at mile marker 51. Free plane rides await kids ages 8-17 with appropriate permission. This food and fun-filled event is sponsored by the local chapter of the Experimental Aircraft Association. Open to the public, the family-friendly free event is to be held from 10am to 3pm. POC: Teresa Condas 1.305.942.1426. 9400 Overseas Highway. 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 Market, Sundays, 9am-2pm through March. www.doralmarket.com.
FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER NEWS
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Relocating? Relocating is a big step. In addition to finding a home, you need to make sure the community you are considering really suits your needs. The key is to gather as much information as possible about your prospective community so you can make an informed decision. Upon receiving your orders please contact Ms. Vilma M. Lesesne, Relocation Readiness Manager, 305.437.1958, for an in-person assessment, out-processing counseling, overseas briefing, newcomer orientation, Miami tour, welcome packets, immigration assistance, assistance to waiting families.
What Can I Get From the Lending Closet? • • • • • • • • • • •
pots & pans iron/ironing board cooking/eating utensils coffee pots glasses/cups toaster microwave inflatable mattress vacuum cleaner play pen and more...
Contact: Vilma M. Lesesne, 305.437.1958
ilitary OneSource is a free service provided by the Department of Defense to service members and their Families to help with a broad range of concerns including money management, spouse employment and education, parenting and child care, relocation, deployment, reunion, and the particular concerns of families with special-needs members. They can also include more complex issues like relationships, stress, and grief. Services are available 24 hours a day - by telephone with professionally trained consultants and online. Many Military OneSource staff members have military experience (veterans, spouses, Guardsmen, Reservists), and all receive ongoing training on military matters and military lifestyle. The program can be especially helpful to service members and their families who live at a distance from installations. 24/7 operation *Toll-Free: 1-800-342-9647 *En español llame al: 1-877-888-0727 *TTY/TDD: 1-866-607-6794
Volunteer! A Rewarding Way to Serve What is the Volunteer Program? Your Military Community It’s the giving time of year! We would love to have you join our team. There are many benefits from volunteering. The Volunteer Program is committed to serving the Soldiers and their Families that are serving to ensure our freedom. We all have asked ourselves, “What can I do to help our Soldiers? Maybe provide gifts, books, or care packages.” These are great ideas and our Soldiers love to get them, but how about serving on a deeper level? Making a difference, even more than you could imagine. Become a volunteer at US Army Garrison-Miami. Join our Army Family Team Building committee and improve our installation and our Military Family. There are many volunteer opportunities available at USSOUTHCOM. It’s easy to find a reason not to take up one of these volunteer opportunities; You don’t have the time. You’re too busy trying to make money yourself. You are just a drop in the bucket and your time won’t make a difference. There are plenty of other people who can fill these volunteer openings. That could not be further from the truth. You are needed and appreciated! Although some of us are so busy we barely have time to eat and sleep, there are a lot of people who can spare a few hours a week contributing to the betterment of others. If you do have just a few hours you can spare, give some serious thought to our volunteer opportunities. If you make a commitment, you’ll be astonished to find that this unpaid activity comes back to you a hundred fold in terms of the personal reward you gain in helping others who need you. Between jobs or working part time? Career minded people who commit to a volunteer opportunity could reap huge rewards. Volunteering is an excellent way to learn more about a possible career path as well as gain knowledge in leadership through training. As a responsible volunteer, this can earn you letters of reference later which may get you a job that pays well and which you enjoy. It also looks great on your resume. Or if your goal is that you just want to help people. There’s a volunteer opportunity waiting for you!
The Volunteer P r o g r a m emphasizes recruitment, retention, training, and recognition. Services include a volunteer job bank, volunteer orientation and training and an annual recognition c e re m o ny scheduled each April during National Volunteer Week.
Who is eligible for the Program? All military, civilians and Family members living in Florida and working at US Southern Command. Services offered by the program include the Army (Military) Family Action Plan (A/MFAP,) which is a grass-roots process that directs actions, enhances readiness and increases retention by improving the quality of life Soldiers and their Families, identifies issues of concern to the total Army, includes members of the Army (Military) Family Team Building (A/MFTB) and determines actions necessary to resolve issues and assigns responsibility for actions to the proper Army Staff Agency.
Department of Defense civilians and volunteers. AFTB provides Families: Military Life 101, Enhancing Relationship, Leadership Skills, Conflict Management, Group Dynamics, Effective Communication, Train–the Trainer Opportunities. For more information please contact: Mary Ortiz, 305.437.2667, mary.e.ortiz.civ@ mail.mil. Online training courses are available 24/7 at www.myarmyonesource.mil. Training: Volunteer Orientation - call and schedule an appointment. Level I- “Learn” (Army) Helps Family members learn about military life and how to maneuver through daily challenges by discovering how to decipher Army acronyms, utilize community resources, attain better financial readiness and understand the goal and impact of the Army mission. • Expectations & Impact of the Mission on Family Life • Military Acronyms and Terms • The Chain of Command • Introduction to the Military Customs & Courtesies • Basis Military Benefits & Entitlements • Introduction to Community Resources • Introduction to Family Readiness Groups • Supporting Your Child’s Education • Introduction to Family Financial Readiness • Basic Problem Solving
What is Army Family Team Building (AFTB)? Army Family Team Building is a series of training modules taught through your local Army Community Service office that cover topics such as basic information about the Army, personal growth skills and leadership skills. AFTB improves personal and personal and Family preparedness which enhances overall Army readiness and helps America’s military adapt to a changing world.
Level II- “Grow” (Personal Skills) 24/7 Online Courses Helps Family members improve personal skills through the development courses off leadership and management in conjunction with the FRG, Community agencies, or other military and civilian organizations.
Why Should I Attend AFTB? AFTB helps you to not cope with, but enjoy the military lifestyle. Many of the courses can be applied toward resume’ and career building, selfdevelopment and leadership skills. Active duty Soldiers can earn promotion points for participating in the training. AFTB provides the knowledge and self-confidence to take responsibility for yourself and your Family. The training is available to Soldiers, Family members of all Active Duty Military,
Level I-III Courses are available online for your convenience.
Level III- “Lead” (Others) 24/7 Online Courses Helps Family members develop advanced leadership skills and enhances participants organizational skills in the Army and civilian life.
Thank you to our active volunteers! Do you have free time on your hands? Call you friendly Volunteer Coordinator, Mary Ortiz, 305.437.2667, or e-mail mary.e.ortiz.civ@mail.mil.
Spouse Employment Program
Network extensively. Attend industry events, reach out to friends, family, former classmates and colleagues, and check to see what career resources your alma mater offers (many provide Resume and interview technique workshops are extensive help to job seekers free of charge.) including the use of the internet, headhunters, and employment agencies, staffing agencies, newspapers and local resources.
scheduled monthly. Army Community Service resources include computers, fax, printers, and career library. These services are offered free of charge.
Make the internet your friend. Utilize careerfocused social media portals like LinkedIn to connect with former colleagues and bosses, For additional information, contact the Employment join industry relevant groups, and request Readiness Program Manager, Mr. Joe Pagan at recommendations from past supervisors (and 305.437.2639, or e-mail joe.pagan1.civ@mail.mil. don’t forget to make sure your digital presence is squeaky clean!) The Spouse Employment Program offered by Army Community Service provides 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.
Career Readiness Advice
Reach out to companies you’re interested in working for directly to inquire about career opportunities and current openings, in addition to posting your resume on the MSEP Career board and sites like Monster, Hot Jobs, CareerBuilder and Craigslist, or www.usajobs. gov for federal government employment . Don’t be afraid to work for free. Volunteering and interning are great ways to get your foot in the door and can be a tremendous learning experience. continued on page 12
Services include individual and group career assessment and counseling, negotiating salary, career exploration, instruction in job search strategies
WHAT’S UP IN FAMILY AND MWR ? Football Friday!
Photos by Art McQueen
SPORTS & FITNESS CLASS SCHEDULE 305.437.0123 Monday
Thursday
0600-0630 Functional Fitness with Frank – Free 1130-1230 Indoor Cycling with Monica 1130 & 1200 Functional Fitness with Frank – Free
0600-0700 Functional Fitness with Frank – Free 1130 & 1230 Functional Fitness with Frank – Free 1130-1230 Cardio Latin Dance with Monica
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, Sunday and Holidays: 1000 – 1700 Open to Active Duty, Reserve, Retired Military & their Dependents 305.437.0123/0124
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
Welcome Our New Fitness Center Staff Members! Bell Cantor is our new Recreation Assistant and Zumba Instructor. She is originally from Israel. Bell was a Zumba instructor at Ft. Buchanan, Puerto Rico. She is also a singer and performer. Bell was a former Israeli Solder and fitness instructor for the Israeli Army. Bell is married to Staff Sergeant Alex Espada. Her favorite activities are dancing, singing, playing the drums and riding motor bikes.
Welcome to Marcus De Oliveira, Recreation Assistant. Marcus is from Paris, France. He is a certified personal trainer with a certification from The National Council on Strength and Fitness. Marcus started working with the fitness center as a volunteer during the summer and decided to stay as an MWR employee. He is also a professional Salsa dancer. His favorite activities are dancing and working out.
Stop by the Fitness Center and say hi to Bell and Marcus!
The 13Th Army Band Invites You To Its Public Performances: • Golden Veteran’s Parade and Ceremony, City of Miami, Friday, November 8, Noon • Mayor’s Veteran’s Day BBQ, City of Hollywood, TY Park, Sunday, November 10, Noon • Veteran’s Day Parade, City of Miami Beach, 1700 Washington Avenue, Monday, November 11, 9 am. Go to 13tharmyband.army.mil for further information. 13th Army Band during a Memorial Day Concert at Century Village, 2012
Many thanks to the sponsors of the Newcomer Orientation for providing the wonderful refreshments, November 2012 - September 2013. We deeply appreciate their support.
GOING GREEN What are GMOs and should I care? Helen Colby, editor Several years ago I was shopping at Whole Foods and the salesperson, referring to a product I was holding, said, “It has no GMOs.” Feeling quite ignorant, I said, “What are GMOs?” I started doing some research. GMOs, or “genetically modified organisms,” are plants or animals that have been genetically engineered with foreign DNA from bacteria, viruses or other plants and animals. These combinations of genes from different species do not occur in nature or in traditional crossbreeding. GMOs are created for several reasons: to resist pesticides; increase production on less land; higher nutrient value; among others. But, there is tremendous disagreement on whether or not GMO crops are offering increased yield or enhanced nutrition, or any consumer benefit. In fact, many scientists have provided evidence that GMOs are causing health problems, environmental damage and violation of farmer’s and consumers’ rights. There is currently an effort underway to splice foreign DNA into oranges. Orange trees are threatened by a bacterium that causes citrus greening and results in bitter fruit that does not ripen. Being considered for use are genes from spinach and pigs. Yes, pigs. Most developed nations do not consider GMOs to be safe. In more than 60 countries around the world, including Australia, Japan, and all of the countries in the European Union, there are significant restrictions or outright bans on the production and sale of GMOs. Several countries in Central and South America have banned GMOs. In the U.S., the government has approved GMOs based on studies conducted by the same corporations that created them and profit from their sale. Increasingly, Americans are taking matters into their own hands and choosing to opt out of the GMO experiment. That includes me. Unfortunately, even though polls consistently show that a significant majority of Americans want to know if the food they’re purchasing contains GMOs, (a 2012 Mellman Group poll found that 91% of American consumers wanted GMOs labeled,) and, according to a recent CBS/New York Times poll, 53% of consumers said they would not buy food that has been genetically modified, the powerful biotech lobby has succeeded in keeping this information from the public. Several states have tried to pass laws that require the labeling of foods containing GMOs. Bioengineering firms and other large corporations have poured millions of dollars into defeating such efforts. As of this writing, the next vote takes place in the state of Washington. A battle has recently taken place in the state of Hawaii, and Connecticut recently passed a mandatory labeling law. If GMOs are so safe, I have to ask, “why are the biotech and grocery companies so vehemently against labeling?” More than 80% of all GMOs grown worldwide are engineered for herbicide
tolerance. As a result, use of toxic herbicides like Roundup has increased 15 times since GMOs were introduced. GMO crops are also responsible for the emergence of “super weeds” and “super bugs,” which can only be killed with ever more toxic poisons like 2,4-D (a major ingredient in Agent Orange). GMOs are a direct extension of chemical agriculture, and are developed and sold by the world’s biggest chemical companies. The long-term impacts of GMOs are unknown, and once released into the environment these novel organisms cannot be recalled. Because GMOs are novel life forms, biotechnology companies have been able to obtain patents with which to restrict their use. As a result, the companies that make GMOs now have the power to sue farmers whose fields are contaminated with GMOs, even when it is the result of inevitable drift from neighboring fields. GMOs therefore pose a serious threat to farmer sovereignty and to the national food security of any country where they are grown, including the United States. The Non GMO Project, www. nongmoproject.org, classifies products into two groups: (1) those that are highrisk of being GMO because they are currently in commercial production, and (2) those that have a monitored risk because suspected or known incidents of contamination have occurred and/ or the crops have genetically modified relatives in commercial production with which cross-pollination (and consequently contamination) is possible. For more information on the Non-GMO Project’s testing and verification of risk ingredients and processed foods, please see the Non-GMO Project Standard, www.nongmoproject.org/product-verification/non-gmo-project-standard/ overview-of-the-standard/. High-Risk Crops (in commercial production; ingredients derived from these must be tested every time prior to use in Non-GMO Project Verified products (as of December 2011): •Alfalfa (first planting 2011) •Canola (approx. 90% of U.S. crop) •Corn (approx. 88% of U.S. crop in 2011) •Cotton (approx. 90% of U.S. crop in 2011) •Papaya (most of Hawaiian crop; approximately 988 acres) •Soy (approx. 94% of U.S. crop in 2011) •Sugar Beets (approx. 95% of U.S. crop in 2010) •Zucchini and Yellow Summer Squash (approx. 25,000 acres) ALSO high-risk: animal products (milk, meat, eggs, honey, etc.) because of contamination in feed. Monitored Crops (those for which suspected or known incidents of contamination have occurred, and those crops which have genetically modified relatives in commercial production with which cross-pollination is possible; we test regularly to assess risk, and move to “High-Risk” category for ongoing testing if we see contamination): •Beta vulgaris (e.g., chard, table beets) •Brassica napa (e.g., rutabaga, Siberian kale) •Brassica rapa (e.g., bok choy, mizuna, Chinese cabbage, turnip, rapini, tatsoi) •Curcubita (acorn squash, delicata squash, patty pan) continued on page 13
Career Readiness Advice
M I A M I - F LO R I D A
continued from page 7
Help other job seekers. If you hear of a job that isn’t quite right for you, see if it is a fit for anyone else you know and send it to them. Perhaps someday they’ll return the favor. Make a great impression in an interview. This means arriving on time, appropriately dressed and having thoroughly researched the company and position for which you are applying. Keep a polished and up-to-date resume on hand at all times. Have a well-rehearsed elevator speech (short summary of your skills, experience and goals) in the front of your mind should you meet someone unexpectedly. Stay up-to-date on trends and industry happenings and do whatever you can to acquire new skills companies are starting to look for in potential hires. Join a support group with other job seekers to help you stay positive, accountable and on track. Visit the Department of Labor-sponsored website, www.servicelocator.org to find career resources and workforce information for job seekers, students, businesses, and workforce professionals. It also provides content specifically designed for military spouses including employment resources, education and training help, and relocation information.
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
Location:
Located 5 minutes from the Miami International Airport, and 15 minutes away from Downtwon, Port of Miami, Coconut Grove, Coral Gables, and Miami Beach. Surrounded by major restaurants and shopping. Easy access to major highways.
Phone: (305)262-5400 - Fax: (305)262-5488 777 NW 57th Avenue (836 & Red Road) - Miami, Florida 33126 sales@hamptoninnmiamiairport.com - www.hamptoninnmiamiairport.com
What are GMOs and should I care? continued from page 11
•Flax •Rice •Wheat Common Ingredients Derived from GMO Risk Crops: Amino Acids, Aspartame, Ascorbic Acid, Sodium Ascorbate, Vitamin C, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Ethanol, Flavorings (“natural” and “artificial”), HighFructose Corn Syrup, Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein, Lactic Acid, Maltodextrins, Molasses, Monosodium Glutamate, Sucrose, Textured Vegetable Protein (TVP), Xanthan Gum, Vitamins, Yeast Products. GMO crops are used in animal feed. GMOs are present in 80% of conventional processed food. You really have to pay attention if you want to avoid them, as I do. I stick to organic or Non-GMO Verified. Processed foods and agricultural crops are not the only things that contain GMOs. I recently found out that most vitamins, including those manufactured for children, contain GMOs. I switched to organic/nonGMO certified vitamins. Personal care products may also contain GMOs. Unless you buy organic or Non-
GMO certified chocolate, it’s GMO. The bottom line here, at least for me, is that GMOs have not been proven to be safe, by any means, and in fact some studies have shown that they are not. The increased use of pesticides (cancer causing!) is bad enough, but possible health consequences are unknown and I do not want to be a scientific experiment for companies that are in the pesticide business. The fact that the same companies who are creating GMOs also produce pesticides is worrisome enough to make me stop and think.
GMO products, educating consumers, and providing Non-GMO Project Verified choices. The organization offers North America’s only third-party verification for products produced according to rigorous best practices for GMO avoidance. Learn more about the Non-GMO Project at www.nongmoproject.org.
There is a tremendous amount of information on GMOs. Some sources say GMOs are perfectly safe and a boon to society. Other sources say it is entirely unknown, we need studies, and yet other sources say they are completely unsafe and harmful. From what I’ve read and from my sense of what I believe is healthy to eat, I have made my choice. But I’m no authority. Do the research and make your own informed decision on GMOs. The information in this article does not represent the opinion of Family and MWR, USAG-Miami. A majority of the information for this article was derived from the Non-GMO Project’s web site. The Non-GMO Project is a non-profit organization committed to preserving and building sources of non-
Here are a few resources (on both sides of the issue): http://strongertogether.coop/ http://justlabelit.org/ www.fooddialogues.com/foodsource/ gmo?gclid=CM6rxvKqh7oCFc-e4AodZBQA7A http://www.responsibletechnology.org/10Reasons-to-Avoid-GMOs http://gmoanswers.com/ https://www.bostonreview.net/forum/truthabout-gmos/modest-response
SPOUSES CORNER CONTRIBUTE to ACS
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 SOCSOUTH - LTC Stewart Mason, 786.415.6202, stewart. mason@socso.southcom.mil or www.facebook.com/groups/socsouthredfam HOMESTEAD - www.facebook.com/groups/ HomesteadMilitaryWives
Want to make a difference by volunteering? Contact the Volunteer Coordinator at 305.437.2665 or locate an installation volunteer opportunity at www.ArmyOneSource.com. If you have already registered with Army OneSource, click Login and enter your username and password. To register with Army OneSource, click the Register link at the top of the homepage, then click Join Now! To search and apply for volunteer opportunities in and around your military community, click the Opportunity Locator link in the Volunteer Center box on the top of the MY AOS Page. Use the Opportunity Locator screen dropdown menus and textboxes to set up selection criteria, and then click Search to generate a list of volunteer opportunities near you. Next, click a position title to view details about that volunteer opportunity. To apply for a volunteer position, click Apply. Next, enter the required [*] information on the application form, then click Submit to complete the process. You will be contacted by an Organization Point of Contact or the Volunteer Coordinator with a response to your application and more information about the volunteer process.
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.byrd@hq.southcom.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: mwrcustomerservice@hq.southcom.mil Toll Free Hot Line: 1.877.291.1604
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
Recreation Services
Family Programs
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.livesey@ hq.southcom.mil Fitness Center 305.437.0123/0124 Jill Hauser, Recreation Specialist, jill.hauser@hq.southcom.mil Frank Same, Recreation Specialist, Francisco.same1@ hq.southcom.mil; Bell Cantor, bell.cantor@hq.southcom. mil; Angelique Williams, angelique.williams@hq.southcom. mil; Marcus Deoliveira, marcus.deoliveira@hq.southcom.mil; Dolly Fernandez, dolores.fernandez@hq.southcom.mil; Jose Fernandez, jose.fernandez@hq.southcom.mil; Alci Montero, alci.montero@hq.southcom.mil;
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.walker@hq.southcom.mil 305.437.2734 Relocation Readiness 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.j.l.ctr@us.army.mil 305.437.0142 Volunteer Coordinator - Mary Ortiz, mary.e.ortiz.civ@mail.mil 305.437.2667
Army Substance Abuse Programs (ASAP) ADCO, ASAP Program Manager - Guy W. Drab, guy.drab@hq.southcom.mil 305.437.3078 Suicide Prevention and Employee Assistance Programs Cheryl A. Davis, Cheryl.Davis@hq.southcom.mil 305.437.2932 ASAP Clinical Program Administrator - Marilou Balch, Marilou.balch1@hq.southcom.mil 305.437.3085 Drug Testing Coordinators (DTC) - Wanda Laureano, wanda.laureano@hq.southcom.mil and Connie Sova, connie.sova.ctr@hq.southcom.mil 305.437.1744 / 2428 Prevention Education/Activities Coordinator (PC) - Carmen Rivera, carmen.rivera.ctr@hq.southcom.mil 305.437.3076
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
FIRE PREVENTION WEEK
Photos by Art McQueen
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 email mwrcustomerservice@hq.southcom.mil.