NOTE Director’s
Fall has arrived and MWR is ready with many fun activities and programming for all ages. Grab your favorite dogs and enjoy the last day of the pool season at Community pool for Doggie Swim Day September 6. Then head over to Biggs Park for the time-honored, three-day celebration- Oktoberfest! Fort Bliss has been celebrating this German tradition for over 50 years. Join us for an awesome weekend for both adults and families September 19-21. Halloween fun is what it’s all about this October! We have some exciting activities planned to include our Freedom Fright collaboration with Freedom Crossing happening October 24-25. MWR and AAFES
will come together to revamp the festivities for this time of year. We hope you enjoy all the fun!
Make sure to follow us on social media for all the awesome happenings this fall with MWR!
And this is why, It's Better at Bliss!
915-568-3500
Roberto.j.medina.naf@army.mil
Join the fun at BINGO Bliss every Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday at 6pm! Doors open early with Early Bird games starting at 5:30 pm, so come early to grab your seat and enjoy an exciting evening with friends, win prizes, and support the local community. For more information, call 915-744-8427. Don’t miss out!
one world one voice one magazine one great staff
Marketing Manager Marlo Brestar
Marketing Assistant Interim Bryan Soriano Gonzalez
Editor/Writer Raymond Sanchez
Graphic Designer Raymond Sanchez
Sponsorship & Advertising Executive Coral Musy
Graphics Production Assistant Martina Grise
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-monthy 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.
ABOUT THE COVER:
"Raise your steins! Oktoberfest brings Bavarian tradition to Fort Bliss with authentic German music, bratwurst, and the vibrant energy of Schuhplattler dancers. Fun fact: Despite its name, Munich's original Oktoberfest actually begins in September and runs into early October! Join the celebration filled with cheers, hearty food, and traditional folk dancing. See more on PAGE 10.
Graphic by Raymond Sanchez
06 Dad's Day 9-11am | ACS
06 Doggy Swim Day
11am-2pm | Community Pool
11 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb
5:15am-8:30pm | Soto PFC
13 Paint and Sip
11am-6pm | Soldier Activity Center
19 & 20 Oktoberfest
6pm-12am | Biggs Park
20 Parents Day Out
3-10pm | Milam CDC & SAS
21 Oktoberfest Family Day
11am-3pm | Biggs Park
26 Commander's Cup 8K Run
6:30-8am | Soto PFC
2 7 Wine Tour
11:15am-7:15pm | Soldier Activity Center
27 & 28 2025 Club Championship 8am-1pm | Underwood Golf Course
2025 CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP
Think you’ve got what it takes? Join us for a 2-day individual stroke play tournament to crown this year’s Club Champion at Underwood Golf Course on SATURDAY, SEP 27-28 at 8am. $70 Entry fee, includes 36 holes with cart, Sunday lunch, and flight prizes. Flights by handicap – includes a Ladies Flight. Space is limited, register at Underwood Golf or call 915-568-1059.
DOGGY SWIM DAY
It’s time for your furry friends to make a splash! Bring your dog out to enjoy a day of tail- wagging fun in the pool, SATURDAY, SEP 6, 11am-2pm at Community pool. There will be contests, prizes, and plenty of ways to cool off those paws. Pet parents (ages 18+) are welcome to join their pups in the water, while youth ages 13–17 may attend but are not permitted in the pool for safety reasons. Safety Precautions: Please note, children 12 and under are not allowed at this event — this day is just for the dogs! In accordance with Fort Bliss policy, restricted dog breeds are not permitted on the installation and will not be allowed at the event. More info: 915-568-7431.
** Events subject to change without notice. Info: bliss.armymwr.com or facebook.com/blissmwr
9.11 MEMORIAL STAIR CLIMB
Join us for a powerful memorial event as we honor the lives lost. THURSDAY, SEP 11 from 5:15am-8:30pm (Ceremony begins at 5:15am) at Soto PFC to pay tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and unity shown on that day. Choose from three symbolic workout challenges: Stair Climb: 110 floors in 25 minutes (30-minute waves), Rower: 2,001 meters (15- minute waves), and Walk/Run: 21 laps on the indoor track (30-minute waves). Pre-registration is encouraged at Soto PFC to reserve a time slot. Commemorative shirts available for $10. Let’s come together to remember, reflect, and move with purpose. More info: 915-744-5788.
1-31 Domestic Violence
Awareness Month Toiletry Drive
M-F: 7:30am-4:30pm | ACS & FRC
3 & 4 Kids Day on the Wall
Friday: 3-6pm | Soldier Activity Center
Saturday: 12-6pm | Soldier Activity Center
24 Norwegian Foot March
8pm | Soto PFC
24 Spooky Floating Pumpkin Patch
5-8pm | ATC
25 Rock Climbing Rough & Ready Hills
8am-5pm | Soldier Activity Center
24 & 25 Freedom Fright 6-9pm | Freedom Crossing
25 & 26 Zombie Fun Shoot
9am-3pm | Rod & Gun Club
LICENSE TO CARRY CLASSES
Join us for our License to Carry classes, held on the first and third Saturdays of every month. For October, classes will be offered on Saturday, October 4th, and 18th. Civilians: $85 • Active-Duty Military: $75 • Rod & Gun Members: $65
Whether you're new to firearms or need to meet licensing requirements, this class provides the training and certification you need in a safe, professional environment. Reserve your spot early – spaces fill up fast! More Info: 915-568-5026.
DIA DE LOS DEADLIFTS
Join us for the 7th annual 2025 Fort Bliss Dia De Los Deadlifts OCT 20-31, 6am-6pm at Ironworks East.Participants will have 3 attempts to complete their 1 Rep MAX deadlift. After completion participants will receive a t-shirt and name plate. Heaviest lifts will get their name plate displayed on the board at either gym. The cost is $20. Call 915-744-5201 for more info.
** Events subject to change without notice. Info: bliss.armymwr.com or facebook.com/blissmwr
NORWEGIAN FOOT MARCH
Test Your Endurance!
Join Fort Bliss Sports, Fitness & Aquatics for the annual Norwegian Foot March on FRIDAY, OCT 24, 8pm. This challenging endurance event is open to active-duty service members, DOD/DA civilians, retirees, and our local community. Registration is $25 and limited to the first 500 participants, with sign-ups available beginning September 10th at Soto PFC through October 10. Already earned your NFM badge? Bring your certificate for verification. Don’t miss this opportunity to push your limits! For more info, call 915-744-5798.
TRAVEL WITH
Fall is here and that always brings exciting holiday activities to look forward to; Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years and other adventures for 2026. For those with kids in school it is an optimal time for travel and making vacation plans while the kids are on a break. Whether you make plans to visit California, Florida, your home state or even take a cruise, the weather is usually favorable compared to the summer heat. Here at Leisure Travel Services, we would like to help you plan your perfect vacation or even give you ideas on what you can do this upcoming fall and winter season. If you are making plans for Fall break, Thanksgiving, Christmas and even New Year’s, there is always something do at the parks. Visit our website at the QR code below to see a list of everything we offer. If there is something you don’t see for a state not listed, ask us what we have to offer, we have access to thousands of tickets.
If you are not familiar with LTS, we can book your Disney or Universal resort stays. Many offer military rates for service members. Staying on property makes it so easy to walk right over the parks, you can walk back to your resort for a midday nap or just enjoy the luxury of being so close to your resort after a fun-filled day. Disneyland has four different properties to choose from. To book a room, you would only need the first night’s rate plus tax and the remaining balance you pay at check-in.
BY REBECCA BLAIR, LEISURE TRAVEL SERVICES (LTS)
Disneyland Resorts:
• Disneyland Hotel • The Villas at Disneyland Hotel
• Pixar Place Hotel • Grand Californian Resort & Spa
At Disney World, they have a huge selection of resorts to choose from. We can help you pick the right resort that works for you. They offer several different categories: Campgrounds, Value, Moderate, Deluxe Villas and Deluxe. If you are looking to stay on a budget, easy access to certain parks, best resort for transportation between your resort/parks, or if you have a bucket-list resort – let us do the work for you! You can book a room at Disney World for just a $200 deposit!
Disney World Resorts:
• The Campsites at Fort Wilderness Resort • Art of Animation • Pop Century
• All-Star Movies • All-Star Music • All-Star Sports • Caribbean Beach
• Coronado Springs • Port Orleans – French Quarter • Port Orleans – Riverside
• Bay Lake Tower at Contemporary • Boulder Ridge Villas at Wilderness Lodge
• Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Wilderness Lodge • Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House • Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village • Beach Club Villas
• Old Key West • Polynesian Villas & Bungalows • Riviera • Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa • The Villas at Grand Floridian Resort & Spa • The Cabins at Fort Wilderness • Contemporary
• Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
• Yacht Club
• Animal Kingdom Lodge
• Beach Club
• Boardwalk Inn
• Polynesian Village
• Wilderness Lodge • Walt Disney World Swan Reserve • Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel
• Walt Disney World Swan Hotel
At Universal Orlando you can book a package that includes your tickets or just a room only. With packages you can add Express tickets, VIP Tours, photo packages and a Military exclusive Wizarding World of Harry Potter Vacation package. To book a package the deposit is just $50 per person! They also offer many great benefits to staying on property like complimentary transportation between the parks, early park entry and the luxury of being so close to your room. Universal offers different categories from their Signature collection to their Value Inn & Suites.
Universal Orlando Resorts:
• Helios Grand • Portofino Bay • Sapphire Falls • Cabana Bay • Dockside Inn
• Surfside Inn • Hard Rock • Royal Pacific • Aventura • Stella Nova • Terra Luna
With all the exciting things happening at Universal and Disney you will have plenty to do for the fall, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years and plans for 2026. Let us plan your vacation for the end of this year and even get ahead to plan for next year. Visit us at Freedom Crossing, 1611 Marshall Road or give us a call at (915) 569 -6446.
Seasonal things to do at the Parks – Purchase tickets with LTS:
• After Hours – H20 Glow at Typhoon Lagoon
• After Hours – Hollywood Studios
• After Hours - Epcot
• Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom
• Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios
• Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas at Magic Kingdom
• New Years Eve/Day at Epcot.
• Disneyland and Disney World Packages
• Universal Orlando Packages
• Universal Orlando Halloween Horror Nights
PROST TO TRADITION: FORT BLISS
OKTOBERFEST RETURNS
SEPTEMBER 19–21
BY FORT BLISS MWR MARKETING
Dust off your dirndls and lace up your lederhosen—Fort Bliss Oktoberfest is back and better than ever! From September 19th through the 21st, Biggs Park will transform into a festive Bavarian atmosphere, bringing the rich traditions of Germany right to the heart of the desert.
For two nights only—Friday and Saturday—guests 21 and up can raise a stein to authentic German beer, dance along to live music performed by Terry Cavanagh and the Alpine Express and enjoy the incredible talents of our traditional German Schuhplattler dancers. It’s a high-energy, high-spirited celebration that’s open to the entire El Paso community. Admission for each night is just $20 per person, and that includes access to the beer tent, music, and cultural performances that will have you singing “Ein Prosit” all night long.
Then on Sunday, we switch gears for Family Day, where the fun continues with a focus on our younger festgoers. For just $5 per person (3 and under free), families can enjoy the vibrant Oktoberfest atmosphere with the bonus of inflatable attractions, extra food trucks, and kid-friendly activities that make this a truly all-ages experience. Whether you’re coming for the bratwurst, the bier, or the boisterous Bavarian beats, Fort Bliss Oktoberfest is the place to be this September. Grab your friends, bring the whole family on Sunday, and get ready to toast to good times, great food, and even better memories.
Tickets Available at bliss.armymwr.com, Fort Bliss Rod and Gun Club or Fort Bliss Leisure Travel Services. For Information about table reservations, please call 915-5696446.
To obtain your Community Access Pass to Fort Biss, visit our website and search “Community Access Pass” or scan the QR code.
FORT BLISS DOMINATES AT CHRISTIAN CASTLE LIFEGUARD OLYMPICS — A COMPETITION
BY FORT BLISS MWR MARKETING
WITH HEART
Each summer, the desert heat meets a different kind of intensity at Wet n’ Wild Waterworld, where lifeguards from across the region gather not just to compete, but to honor a life and a cause. The Christian Castle Lifeguard Olympics is more than just a showcase of skill—it’s a powerful reminder of why lifeguards do what they do.
This year, Fort Bliss lifeguards swept the competition, proudly taking first and second place and continuing a winning streak that now stretches 9 years in a row. The event challenges teams with realistic rescue scenarios, medical drills, endurance tests, and water safety knowledge, all while under pressure, just like in real life. For these guards, it’s not just about medals, it’s about being ready to save lives.
The event is held in memory of Christian Castle, a young boy who tragically drowned at the age of 3. His family began this event to raise awareness about water safety and to honor
Christian’s memory through action. Their mission has grown into a powerful movement, drawing in lifeguards from all over the region who train, compete, and connect over their shared commitment to keeping others safe.
For the lifeguards at Fort Bliss, competing in the Christian Castle Lifeguard Olympics isn’t just a chance to test their skills—it’s a way to reaffirm their purpose. It’s heart, strength, teamwork, and dedication on full display. And its proof that behind every whistle, every watchful eye on the water, there’s a deeper reason: to prevent tragedy and protect life.
•
Step Into the Future of Fun with Hyper Bowling at Desert Strike Lanes
BY FORT BLISS MWR MARKETING
Ready to experience bowling like never before? Desert Strike Lanes, located at 2949 Carter Road, is taking the game to a whole new level with Hyper Bowling—a bold, high-energy mashup of traditional bowling and interactive video gaming. Whether you're a seasoned bowler or a first-timer, Hyper Bowling offers a thrilling, strategy-packed twist that's fun for all ages.
What Is Hyper Bowling?
Hyper Bowling reimagines the classic game by turning the bumpers into interactive targets that light up in vibrant colors. Your goal? Aim for the lights and rack up bonus points based on which ones you hit.
On top of that, each pin you knock down adds 100 points to your total— making every roll count. With its mix of skill, strategy, and luck, Hyper Bowling turns every game into a high-stakes, adrenaline-pumping experience.
Try It Before You Play
Curious but not quite ready to dive in? Free demos are available, so you can get a feel for the game before renting a lane.
Pricing & Rentals
Hyper Bowling is available by the hour, for up to five players per lane, and pricing includes shoe rental:
1 Hour – $40 • 2 Hours – $55 • 3 Hours – $70
In addition to the high-energy fun of Hyper Bowling, make sure to check out the Desert Grill—your go-to spot for delicious food and refreshing drinks. Whether you're craving classic comfort food or quick bites between games, the Desert Grill has something for everyone.
Don’t miss out on their new Friday Lunch Special, featuring a BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich! Keep an eye out for other weekly Lunch Special options that are coming soon. It's the perfect way to kick off your weekend—great food, good vibes, and unbeatable bowling fun all under one roof.
BREAKING THE SILENCE: Fort Bliss Takes Action Against Domestic Violence
BY DEANA G. GARCIA SFAC DIRECTOR, ARMY COMMUNITY SERVICE
Domestic Violence Awareness Month was first recognized in 1981 as a National “Day of Unity” and was first observed as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October 1987 along with the first free national domestic violence hotline (800) 799-7233. Every October, Fort Bliss and other military installations across the world observe Domestic Violence Awareness Month which raises awareness and the impact of domestic violence on our communities. Fort Bliss and the Army Community Service Domestic Violence Advocates offer services and resources which are instrumental in the education and prevention of Domestic Violence.
According to the CDC in 2025 nearly 1 in 2 women and over 2 in 5 men experience intimate partner violence at some point in their lives. Approximately 41% of women and 26% of men have experienced contact sexual violence, physical violence, or stalking by an intimate partner during their lifetime. Every minute, 32 people in the U.S. experience intimate partner violence, highlighting the ongoing crisis. Nearly 50% of women and more than 40% of men reported experiencing some form of intimate partner violence in their lifetime. Over 61 million women and 53 million men have experienced psychological aggression by an intimate partner. Data indicates that about 1 in 5 homicide victims are killed by an intimate partner, with over half of female homicide victims being killed by a current or former male intimate partner. These statistics underscore the urgent need for awareness, prevention, and support for survivors to address this ongoing crisis effectively.
Intimate partner violence can lead to severe health issues, including chronic conditions affecting the heart, muscles and one’s mental health such as depression and PTSD. Children who witness domestic violence are particularly vulnerable. They may develop behavioral
problems and begin to struggle academically. The signs of domestic violence are not always visible, which leads to victims suffering in silence due to fear, shame or a lack of support. The significant impacts of domestic violence are not always visible, which leads to victims suffering in silence due to fear, shame or a lack of support. The significant impact of domestic violence seeps into every corner of a survivor’s life. Understanding the full scope of such impact is essential to building better systems of support. By breaking the silence, we can break the cycle. Every survivor deserves to be heard, believed and supported. Each of us play a role in creating a world where abuse is no longer tolerated. During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the purple ribbon honors survivors of domestic violence. It serves as a powerful symbol of hope, strength and unity in the fight against intimate partner violence. Wearing or displaying a purple ribbon is a simple but meaningful way to show your solidarity and spark important conversations. We invite our Fort Bliss and El Paso community to take part in Domestic Violence Awareness Month alongside us.
- Toiletry Drive. Donation bins will be placed at the Army Community Service building and the Family Resiliency Center to gather much needed supplies that will be donated to community shelters. Please join us in supporting our domestic violence survivors by donating any new toiletry items between 01 Oct-31 Oct.
- DVAM Building Resiliency through Self-Care. Our Family Advocacy Program specialist, Sharon Brown, will provide a general overview of self-care modalities to promote resiliency, followed by a sound bath. This event will take place at the Army Community Service building on 07 Oct, 15 Oct, and 23 Oct.
- In Their Shoes. Our Domestic Abuse Victim Advocates will present a short brief highlighting the importance of Domestic Violence Awareness Month and services available. This will be followed by the interactive game of, “In Their Shoes.” FAP will provide the incentive of fulfilling your yearly DV training requirement by participating in this activity.
- Wear Your Support On Your Sleeve. We encourage everyone to wear their favorite team jersey, domestic violence awareness shirt, or favorite shade of purple every Friday throughout the month of October. In doing so, you will assist us in showing your support to victims and survivors of violence.
The Family Advocacy Program consists of knowledgeable and experienced domestic abuse victim advocates and specialists who are always willing to provide education and support to our military and civilian community. Our specialists conduct insightful classes to address the unique challenges that our servicemembers and their families face. There are a variety of classes offered to provide various effective tools associated with anger, stress, parenting, or marriage. Within our New Parent Support Program, we also have trained professionals that are committed to assisting parents and expecting parents of children between the ages of 0-3 years old with their daily parenting challenges. Lastly, our victim advocates are available to assist individuals with a multitude of services such as discussing reporting options, safety planning, accompanying individuals to various agencies, providing information and referrals, and ensuring that the individual receives ongoing support. Domestic Abuse Victim Advocates also support our community by maintaining a 24/7 Domestic Violence hotline. The hotline number is 915-269-2013. An individual will be available to talk to you 24 hours a day.
Centennial Banquet and Conference Center is your onestop shop for all your event needs, your Premier Event Destination at Fort Bliss. Whether you're planning a wedding, quinceañera, change of command, or a corporate gathering, they offer elegant venues, expert on-site and off-site catering, and customizable services to make your event unforgettable. Plus, enjoy their daily all-you-can-eat lunch buffet Tuesday through Friday and fun weekly bingo nights. For seamless planning and exceptional service, Centennial has you covered every step of the way. Call 915-744-8427 to book today!
Centennial Banquet and Conference Center is located at 11199 Sergeant E. Churchill Street, Fort Bliss, Texas.
• On-Site Dining: Food Pavilion Lunch Buffet
Experience a different culinary theme each day from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Tuesday through Friday, at the Food Pavilion, each buffet includes a soup and salad bar, a drink, and dessert of the day.
• Full-Service On & Off Site Catering for Your Special Events
On-Site Catering: Includes audiovisual support, guest passes for easy access to Fort Bliss, free parking, and assistance with décor, themes, and room setups.
Off-Site Catering: Available for groups with a minimum of 50 people. Options range from $15.95 to $21.95 per person, with various menu packages featuring entrees like roast turkey with dressing, baked lasagna, and marinated brisket.
• Bingo Bliss: Weekly Entertainment
Join the community for Bingo Bliss every Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday evening beginning at 6 p.m. Enjoy a fun and engaging atmosphere with various bingo games and prizes.
Whether you're hosting a formal ceremony or a casual gathering, the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center provides a professional and welcoming environment to make your event memorable.
