blissNOW Magazine JAN-FEB 2026

bliss NOW

CARRYING A LEGACY FORWARD, ONE STEP AT A TIME

PAYING TRIBUTE | REMEMBER THEIR SACRIFICE | EVERY NAME EVERY MILE JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2026 | WWW.BLISS.ARMYMWR.COM JANUARY | FEBRUARY

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WE ARE

BY FORT BLISS MWR MARKETING

WE ARE MWR: A NEW YEAR, A STRONGER COMMUNITY As we welcome 2026, Fort Bliss Family & MWR steps into the new year with renewed energy, fresh ideas, and a continued commitment to supporting the Soldiers, Families, Civilians, and Retirees who make our installation extraordinary. Each January brings a reset - a moment to focus on connection, well-being, and creating memorable experiences. That spirit is what drives every program, event, and service across MWR.

This year, we’re doubling down on what matters most: building a community where everyone feels seen, supported, and celebrated. From fitness goals at our gyms, family memories at our special events, personal growth through CYS and SKIESUnlimited, to moments of relaxation at our recreational facilities, MWR is here to help you start the year with balance and purpose.

Behind every class taught, every event hosted, and every customer greeted is an MWR team dedicated to making Fort Bliss feel like home. They are planners, creatives, coaches, instructors, caretakers, and problem-solvers—working together to serve a community that deserves the very best.

As we step into a new chapter, we invite you to engage, explore, and take advantage of the many opportunities available throughout Fort Bliss. Whether you’re discovering something new or returning to a favorite program, thank you for making MWR part of your journey.

Here’s to a year filled with growth, connection, and unforgettable moments.

#WeAreMWR—Stronger Together in 2026.

CONTENTS 20

Pages full of absolute fun and endless POSSIBILITIES!

VOLUME TWENTY-TWO | ISSUE ONE JAN | FEB 2026

blissNOW

BY FAMILY & MWR MARKETING

one world one voice one magazine

one great staff Marketing Manager

Marlo Brestar

Marketing Assistant

Bryan Soriano Gonzalez Editor/Writer

Raymond Sanchez Graphic Designer

Raymond Sanchez Sponsorship & Advertising Executive

Coral Musy

Graphics Production Assistant

Martina Grise

Marketing Specialist

Alexis Escobar-Paz

Monti Recreation Center is excited to launch Liftoff, a high-energy PC drone racing simulation now available for Soldiers to experience on six dedicated gaming computers. Powered through the Steam platform, Liftoff delivers an immersive, skill-building experience using specialized flight controls and high-quality gaming headsets that put players right into the cockpit. Stop by Monty Rec Center and take off into the world of drone racing today!

IN THIS ISSUE: 4 5 6 7 8

JANUARY Events JANUARY Highlights FEBRUARY Events FEBRUARY Highlights Discover a World of Art

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ABOUT THE COVER: Through the Years

Serving Excellence: Fort Bliss's Robert Burns wins Regional Tennis Honor

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BlissNOW is a Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation magazine published bi-monthly for activities on Fort Bliss, Texas. BlissNOW is inserted in welcome packets, and distributed to Biggs Park, Soto PFC, NCOLCoE (Sergeants Major Academy), WBAMC, El Paso International Airport, Fort Bliss RV Park, Parent Central, Main ACS (Army Community Service), Fort Bliss Support Center, Vogel Hall, Desert Strike Lanes, along with the Fort Bliss Commissary, Post Exchange (PX) Pharmacy at Freedom Crossing. Circulation: 5,000 bi-monthly.

The appearance of advertising does not constitute an endorsement by the U.S. Army, Department of Defense or federal government. The information in this issue is current at the time of publication; activities and events are subject to change without notice. Downloading of any social media apps is on a voluntary basis. DFMWR is not responsible for any negative consequences resulting in its use. For more information, call the individual facilities. Family and MWR Marketing is located in Building 12 Pershing Road Fort Bliss, TX 79916 and may be reached at 915-568-6741.

Fort Bliss Main Post Map Fort Bliss East Bliss Map Fort Bliss MWR Directory

This month's cover brings together powerful moments from Run for the Fallen across the years—a visual tribute to the Soldiers, Families, and community members who unite annually to honor our fallen heroes.

Together, these images reflect a tradition of remembrance, resilience, and unwavering support. As we enter another year, we celebrate the past while continuing the mission to honor those who gave everything.

Graphic by Raymond Sanchez

JANUARY | FEBRUARY

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** Events subject to change without notice.

Info: bliss.armymwr.com or facebook.com/blissmwr

MONTHLY CALENDAR

EVENTS THIS

JANUARY

03 Spin into the New Year 9am | Soto PFC

06 Sports Officials Clinic 6pm | Aquatics Training Center

24 Fort Bliss Health Fair 8 - 11am | Soto PFC

24 Iron Soldier Half Marathon 7 - 11am | Soto PFC

07 Start the New Year with a Bang Bingo

ONGOING PROGRAMS

5:30pm | Centennial

Kids Day on the Wall January 2 (3 - 6pm) / January 3 (12 - 6pm) Soldier Activity Center

09 Meet the Artist Open House 4 - 8pm | Art & Hobby Shop

09 Song Writing with Pendrick 11:30 - 1:30pm | Monti Rec Center

23 Improv with James Mastraieni 5:30 - 7pm | Soto PFC

Commander's Cup Basketball January 12 - February 26 Soto PFC USTA 40 & Over Tennis League January 12 - March 10 Tennis Club Los Besties Social Art Club January 15 - May 21(every other Thursday) Art & Hobby Shop EFMP Coffee & Connections Every third Friday of each month Starbucks at Freedom Crossing Youth Co-Ed Winter Tennis January 21 - February 25 Tennis Club

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JANUARY

HIGHLIGHTS

** Events subject to change without notice.

Info: bliss.armymwr.com or facebook.com/blissmwr

COMMANDER'S CUP BASKETBALL

SPIN INTO THE NEW YEAR

Kick off the New Year with a high-energy, 90-minute indoor cycling endurance ride on SATURDAY, JAN. 3, 8am at Soto PFC. The cost is $7 per person, and the event is open to all fitness levels. There will be door prizes and refreshments. Registration is required, visit Soto PFC to sign up or call 915-744-5790 for more details.

Commander's Cup Basketball runs from MONDAY, JAN. 12 to THURSDAY, FEB. 26, with games held Monday through Thursday, 6pm at Soto PFC. It's open to Active-Duty personnel, with Company/Battery/ Troop level teams.

A coaches meeting will be held on Jan. 7, 6pm at the Soldier Activity Center. Registration is required and free; sign up at the MWR Sports office on the second floor of Soto PFC or call 915-744-5793 for more information.

START THE NEW YEAR WITH A BANG BINGO

Start the New Year with a Bang Bingo runs from SATURDAY, JAN. 3 - WEDNESDAY, JAN. 7, 5:30–8:30pm at Centennial Metro Bingo Bar, 11199 Sgt. E. Churchill St. The highlight event “New Year, New Console!” is WEDNESDAY, JAN. 7, doors open at 4:30pm, Early Birds at 5:30pm, and General Session at 6pm.

Open to DoD ID cardholders and guests 18+, with a champagne toast at halftime for players 21+. Packs start at $25, electronics $60–$80. Prizes include an Xbox One X and a PS5 Bundle. Call 915-744-8427 for

JANUARY | FEBRUARY

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** Events subject to change without notice.

Info: bliss.armymwr.com or facebook.com/blissmwr

EVENTS THIS

FEBRUARY

MONTHLY CALENDAR

08 The BIG Game Bash 5 - 9pm | Centennial

14 & 28 Wine Tour 11:15am | Soldier Activity Center

18 EFMP Play & Learn 11:15am | FRC Playroom

21 Snow Sledding

8:30 - 11am | Soldier Activity Center

ONGOING PROGRAMS

28 Run for the Fallen

Youth Co-Ed 3v3 Basketball February 2 - 28 Youth Sports Plex

8:30 - 11am | Field of Honor

Youth Co-Ed Spring Soccer February 2 - March 31 Youth Sports Plex Youth Co-Ed Spring Flag Football February 2 - March 31 Youth Sports Plex Kids Day on the Wall February 6 (3 - 6pm) / February 7 (12 - 6pm) Soldier Activity Center Thunder Volleyball Open League February 7 - March 4 Soto PFC

BRING YOUR GOODS TO LOCK & LEAVE STORAGE Fort Bliss 915-566-8321

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YOU STORE-IT, YOU LOCK-IT, YOU LEAVE-IT

www.mylockandleavestorage.com 24 hours drive up access to your goods After Hours Renter Program Active Duty, DoD and Retirees welcomed

www.bliss.armymwr.com

FEBRUARY

HIGHLIGHTS

** Events subject to change without notice.

Info: bliss.armymwr.com or facebook.com/blissmwr

ENHANCE THE ROMANCE

THE BIG GAME BASH AT THE CENTENNIAL

Treat that special someone in your life with a deep tissue massage by Fort Bliss Massage Therapy! Enhance the romance with a Couples Massage during this Valentine's Day Special! This special offer is only available for appointments scheduled between FEB. 07-14. Offer is limited to availability, schedule your appointment now!

DEEP TISSUE: $65 (60 minute) / $90 (90 minute). For more information or to book by phone: 915-744-5790.

Get ready to celebrate the biggest game of the year in style! On SUNDAY, FEB. 8, The Centennial will host an unforgettable Big Game Bash from 3:30 - 10pm. Admission is $25, which includes a pizza bar, complimentary soda (while supplies last) and the ultimate game-day atmosphere. The kitchen will be open for food orders and the bar will be serving up cocktails, cans, and drafts all night long. For more information, call 915-744-9330.

RUN FOR THE FALLEN

On SATURDAY, FEB. 28 the Ruhland Field of Honor will host the Annual Run for the Fallen from 8:30 - 11am, a free community event honoring those who gave the ultimate sacrifice; while participation is free, registration is required and can be completed at Leisure Travel Service or Soto PFC. Commemorative event shirts will be available for $15 with a purchase deadline of FEB. 11, making this morning of remembrance not only a chance to run or walk in tribute but also to carry home a keepsake of unity and gratitude—so lace up, sign up, and join the movement to keep their memory alive.

For more information, call 915-744-5793.

JANUARY | FEBRUARY

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The Fort Bliss Art & Hobby Center is more than a creative space. It is where imagination, innovation, and community come together. Tucked away on post, this vibrant hub offers Soldiers, Families, Veterans, Retirees and Civilians the chance to relax, reconnect, and rediscover their creativity through hands-on art experiences. page 8

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BY ROBIN FOX, FORT BLISS ART & HOBBY CENTER

A Community of Creativity Throughout the year, the Center hosts themed markets, exhibitions, and workshops that bring color and connection to Fort Bliss. Classes range from pottery and painting to glasswork, encaustics, and metal embossing, each designed to help participants explore new mediums and creative techniques.

Every brushstroke, every kiln opening, and every creative experiment offers more than a finished piece. It offers a moment of peace, focus, and expression.

Art becomes a way to decompress, to reflect, and to connect with others who share a love of creating something from nothing.

Soldier Art Workshop (SAW) One of the Center’s signature collaborations is with the Soldier Art Workshop (SAW), a nonprofit foundation established in 2014. SAW’s mission is to support the emotional well-being of our military community through the transformative power of art.

SAW’s workshops are led by a talented roster of local artists including Krystyna Robbins, Katie Gelinas, Lindsey Kronmiller, Carmen Navar and Romy Hawkins, among others. Each immersive workshop spans two to three days, allowing participants to step away from daily demands and dive fully into creative expression.

Get Involved The Art & Hobby Center continues to serve as a creative home for all who walk through its doors. Whether you are seeking a new skill, a way to unwind, or a space to connect, you will find it here. Art has the power to heal, inspire, and unite people from every walk of life, and at Fort Bliss, that power is celebrated every day.

Stay inspired all year long. Explore our calendar of workshops and creative programing at bliss.army.mwr.com, search Art & Hobby Center, or contact us to schedule your next gathering To learn more, call 915-568-5563 or message us through Facebook at the Fort Bliss Art and Hobby Center.

JANUARY | FEBRUARY

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Celebrate in Style at Centennial Banquet & Conference Center and the Golden Tee at Underwood Golf Course

BY FORT BLISS MWR MARKETING

When it comes to hosting unforgettable events, Centennial Banquet & Conference Center stands out as one of the premier venues in the region. Perfect for balls, quinceañeras, proms, receptions, military functions, and large celebrations of every kind, this impressive space can comfortably seat 1200 guests (3000 standing reception). Its versatile layout and elegant atmosphere make it easy to design the event of your dreams. Centennial is located on Fort Bliss, but passes are provided for you and all of your guests, allowing for smooth and convenient access to the installation while maintaining a safe and secure environment.

If you’re looking for a smaller space with charm and convenience, the Golden Tee at Underwood Golf Course offers its own welcoming venue setup. Ideal for birthday parties, retirement gatherings, bridal showers, and casual celebrations, it provides an inviting atmosphere just steps away from the greens. The best part? The golf course is located outside the gate with no pass required - making visits simple and stress-free for all your guests.

Together, Centennial Banquet & Conference Center and the Golden Tee at Underwood Golf Course offer two standout locations for your next special occasion—one grand and glamorous, the other relaxed and intimate. With friendly professional staff, flexible venue options, and unmatched value, these spaces truly represent the top choices for celebrating life’s biggest moments. Both venues are open to the public.

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SERVING EXCELLENCE: Fort Bliss's Robert Burns Wins Regional Tennis Honor

BY MELISSA HUFFT FACILITY MANAGER, FORT BLISS TENNIS CLUB AND FITNESS ZONE

Each year the United States Tennis Association recognizes individuals across the country on their outstanding work that contributes to the sport of tennis and the community. This year, Mr. Robert Burns (retired Garrison Commander) was honored as the Southwest Male Captain of the Year. The ceremony took place on November 8, 2025 at the Arizona Grand Resort in Phoenix, Arizona. Mr. Burns was chosen amongst nominees across the Arizona, New Mexico and the El Paso area. The event was attended by Mr. Burns, his wife, Linda, and the Fort Bliss Tennis Club and Fitness Zone Facility Manager, Melissa Hufft.

This highly coveted honor was awarded to Mr. Burns for his service to his teams as well as his volunteer work with the Junior Tennis Program at the Fort Bliss Tennis Club and Fitness Zone. Please see below on what Mr. Burns enjoys most about captaining, playing, and the tennis programs at Fort Bliss.

Fort Bliss has a first-class tennis program; it is easily the best I have seen on any Army installation throughout my career. The Fort Bliss Tennis Center provides a welcoming environment for Soldiers and Family members that are looking for a healthy and fun place to exercise, play a sport, be on a team, or just be part of a great group of friends.

The Fort Bliss Tennis Club does a superb job of connecting new Soldiers and Families, including Mobilized Soldiers, with a wide variety of opportunities to play tennis and make new friends. They offer multiple adult and junior development classes, tennis lessons, and membership on USTA teams ranging from beginning to advanced levels. The programs at Fort Bliss are all top notch and often serve as a spring board for both junior and adult players to participate in local area tournaments and leagues as well.

For more information on the tennis programs at the Fort

1. What do you enjoy most about Captaining at Ft Bliss? Bliss Tennis Club and Fitness Zone, please contact the facility

I can’t think of a better place to be a USTA League Captain at 915-569-5448 or visit us at bliss.armymwr.com/programs/ than Fort Bliss, Texas. Our facility staff is exceptionally well- tennis-club-and-fitness-zone. led, organized, professional, and friendly. They provide an outstanding environment for our Soldiers, Family members, and civilian friends that make up our Fort Bliss Tennis community. Like most great organizations it’s the people that make the difference, and as a Team Captain, they are my greatest source of pride and joy. I also enjoy the challenge of studying our opponents’ tendencies and setting our teams lineups to give our players the best opportunity to win their match.

2. How has the Fort Bliss Tennis Community impacted your life?

I retired out of Ft Bliss in 2020 after serving a combined 37 years as a Soldier and DA Civilian. After retirement, tennis filled a gap in my life and helped me meet new friends in a healthy, enjoyable setting. Our tennis community also gave me purpose, first as a member of teams, and eventually in leadership roles as the team Captain of both Men’s and Mixed Doubles teams. Tennis has improved both my mental and physical well-being and health. But most of all it has been a blessing to stay connected to our Army, Soldiers, and their Families, to include serving as junior development coach for Army kids just beginning to learn this great sport of a lifetime.

3. What impact does our tennis programs have on the military community? page 12

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SERVING EL PASO’S MILITARY FAMILIES FOR 17 YEARS

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ACCEPT TRICARE AND MOST INSURANCE PLANS PARENTS ALWAYS WELCOME IN TREATMENT ROOMS ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

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DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES TO CONQUER THE BATAAN MEMORIAL DEATH MARCH? The Army’s premier endurance event is the ultimate challenge. It takes grit, determination, perseverance and strength to conquer this punishing desert course... 26.4 miles of rugged terrain, high elevation and hot desert sun. It’s the must-run of all must-runs.

MORE THAN JUST A MARATHON

Bataan is also one of the most unique and moving race weekends you’ll ever experience. That’s because it’s more than just a marathon. It’s a march to honor the fallen heroes and the survivors of the brutal Bataan Death March of World War II. It’s a chance to run, walk or march for those who gave their lives for their country, and to honor today’s heroes, veterans and fallen warriors.

Course stats: Full route length: 26.4 miles Elevation change: 4,052 - 5,136 feet Honorary course: 15.6 miles Temperature: ranges between 30-85° Winds: up to 50 mph Completion time: varies from 3 - 14 hours Average completion time: 8 hours

Register by March 2, 2026!

REGISTER TODAY! SCAN THE QR CODE BELOW:

MARCH 21, 2026 White sands missile range, nm

For more information or to register, Page 29 please visit BataanMarch.com

JANUARY FEBRUARY JANUARY || FEBRUARY

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bliss NOW MWR Marketing Bldg. 12, Pershing Rd. Fort Bliss, TX 79916

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