¡blissNOW! Fall 2013

picture perfect beautiful weather | family fun | ‘fall’ into family and mwr fa l l 2013

w w w. b l i s s m w r . c o m

• NAME BRAND FURNITURE • TABLETS & COMPUTERS • HOME ELECTRONICS • MAJOR APPLIANCES • CAR ACCESSORIES • JEWELRY & MORE! ®

ACTIV E DUTY

• EASY FINANCING • GET PRE-APPROVED ONLINE! • PAYROLL & ALLOTMENT PLANS • IMMEDIATE DELIVERY • POWER OF ATTORNEY ACCEPTED • SUPERIOR CUSTOMER SERVICE ED

ROV P P A MILITARY S AND GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES ALWAY EL PASO - 1430 NORTH LEE TREVINO DR. 915-591-3143

FLETCHER’S JEWELERS - CIELO VISTA MALL 8401 GATEWAY BLVD. 915-771-7300

WHY RENT WHEN YOU CAN OWN? WWW.USADISCOUNTERS.NET • WWW.FLETCHERSJEWELERS.COM Jewelry enlarged to show detail and may not always be exactly as pictured. No Federal endorsement of sponsor is implied.

one world. one voice. one magazine.

FALL 2013

VOLUME NINE • ISSUE FOUR

one great staff.

COMMANDING GENERAL Maj. Gen. Sean B. McFarland GARRISON COMMANDER Col. Brant V. Dayley FAMILY & MWR DIRECTOR Anthony Lovett ARMY COMMUNITY SERVICE Nancy Thomas-Mainor BUSINESS OPERATIONS Ronald Telles CHILD, YOUTH & SCHOOL SERVICES Pat Smith NAF SUPPORT MANAGER Indri O’Hara RECREATION & SPORTS Eric Hildreth SPECIAL EVENTS William Ketcherside MARKETING COORDINATOR Heather Wilburn MARKETING ASSISTANTS Tiffany Kurak Meredith McLean GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Kenny Broomfield Raymond Sanchez COMMERCIAL SPONSORSHIP COORDINATOR Jenny Daugherty ADVERTISING SPECIALIST Jennifer Badr OFFICE MANAGER Martina Grise BlissNOW is a Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation magazine published quarterly for activities on Fort Bliss, Texas.

BlissNOW is mailed to all Fort Bliss homes and George V. Underwood Golf Complex members, inserted in welcome packets, and distributed to all Family and MWR facilities, along with the Fort Bliss Commissary, Post Exchange at Freedom Crossing, IHG Army Hotels Fort Bliss and the Personnel Processing Center.

Circulation: 30,000 quarterly

In this issue ...

4 calendar OCTOBER 9 calendar NOVEMBER 12 calendar DECEMBER 15 recognition Family and MWR 17 recognition SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT 19 around mwr CUSTOMER SERVICE 20 feature PHOTO CONTEST 25 clubs FOOD & FUN 28 recreation SOUTHWEST ADVENTURE 31 recreation sports & fitness 35 recreation leisure 36 family cyss 40 community acs 46 west fort bliss map 48 east fort bliss map 50 directory phone numbers

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. For more information, please call the individual facilities. Family and MWR Marketing is located in Building 12, Pershing Road, Fort Bliss, TX 79916 and may be reached by calling (915) 568-6741.

www.blissmwr.com

¡blissNOW! • Fall 2013 • 3

calendar OCTOBER

5

Grammy-winning country artist Trace Adkins will bring his unique brand of country swing and swagger to the borderland as he headlines a show at Fort Bliss’ Biggs Park Saturday, October 5. Gates open at 5 p.m. The multi-platinum recording artist will take the stage with musical support from Texas native Aaron Watson and the BQ Girls, a trio featuring Miss USA 2005 Chelsea Cooley.

Tickets are available now at both Fort Bliss ITR locations – the Soldier Activity Center at 20732 Constitution Ave. on East Fort Bliss, and the ITR kiosk at Freedom Crossing – and

4 • Fall 2013 • ¡blissNOW!

online at www.mkcent.com.

Military ID holders pay $5 each, and DoD/ DA civilians pay $10. General admission costs $30. Children ages 3 and under are free.

Adkins’ trademark baritone has powered countless hits to the top of the charts and turned albums into Platinum plaques, selling more than 10 million albums, cumulatively.

The Grammy-nominated member of the Grand Ole Opry is a television personality, actor, author, spokesman for the Wounded Warrior Program, the American Red Cross and has performed seven USO Tours.

Aaron Watson has been through a lot in his 12-year career: 11 albums, the birth of

four children, countless hours on the road and many more still spent toiling away at his guitar, writing songs with Jesus on one shoulder and the ghost of Waylon Jennings on the other, making the country tunes he was born to play.

Biggs Park is located at 11138 Sergeant Major Blvd. on East Fort Bliss. Lawn chairs and blankets are welcome; outside food and beverages, glass containers, coolers and pets are prohibited. There is no ATM at Biggs Park; please be sure to bring cash to take advantage of food, beverage and merchandise vendors. For more information, visit blissmwr.com or call (915) 588-8247.

www.blissmwr.com www.blissmwr.com

Youth Sports Winter Basketball Registration Begins October 1 • YouthPlex

Beginner Outdoor Workshop with Southwest Adventure October 3 • 4:30pm • Soldier Activity Center 2-Mile Training PT Run October 4 • 6:30am • Soto Physical Fitness Center Martini and a Manicure October 4 • 4:30pm • Centennial Biggs Laser Tag October 4 • 8pm • Biggs Park Tower Day October 5 • 10am-4:30pm • Tango Tower, Biggs Park Trace Adkins with special guest Aaron Watson October 5 • 5pm • Biggs Park YouthPlex Haunted House and Movie Night October 5 • 6-11pm • KLAQ Haunted House Climbing Competition + Reel Rock Film Tour October 10 • 5pm • Soldier Activity Center Bunco October 10 • 7pm • Pershing Pub Zombie Shoot October 11 • 5pm • Rod and Gun Club Big River Adventure with Southwest Adventure October 11-14 • Big Bend State Park 2013 World Military Taekwondo Championship October 15-20 • Stout and Soto PFCs • See Page 33 Commander’s Open Golf Tournament October 16 • 9am • Underwood Golf Complex Trunk or Treat and Haunted House October 18 • 6:30-9pm • Rod and Gun Club

4

Martini and a Manicure Pamper yourself with Martini and a Manicure at 4:30 p.m. Friday, October 4 at the Centennial.For just $10, kick off the weekend in style with a manicure and one of our carefully crafted specialty martinis. Martini and a Manicure is a great way to relax after a hard week’s work.

Guests must be age 21

Harvest Festival FHEASRVE

19

Right Arm Night October 25 • 5pm • Rod and Gun Club Monster Bash October 25 • 5pm • Biggs Park Halloween Classic Basketball Tournament October 25-27 • Various venues on Fort Bliss Geocaching + Wetlands Cleanup with Southwest Adventure October 26 • Fort Bliss Wetlands

YouthPlex Corn Maze Adventure October 26 • 6-10pm • La Union Corn Maze Kids’ Halloween Party on the Lanes October 26 • 7-9pm • Desert Strike Lanes Family Day at the Wall October 27 • noon-8pm • Soldier Activity Center

blissm wr.c om

10 96

For m

Free

and

open

to all

Milam Yo uth Act ivit yC ent er

0 Ha

an R

ore in

oad

fo, ca

• Ea

st Fo

rt Bli

ss

ll 915

-74 4 -245 2

Haunted Pumpkin Patch & Ghost Stories

October 19 • 2-6pm • Milam Youth Activity Center

October 26 • 5-9pm • Old Fort Bliss

T I V ST AL

Ready to have a howling good time? Join the Milam Youth Activity Center for its annual Harvest Festival from 2-6 p.m. Saturday, October 19 for face painting, cupcake decorating and a spooky haunted house!

This spook-tacular event is great for all ages, and is free for everyone.

Octo Milam Youth ber 1 En 9•2 cupc joy face Activity Center is -6pm p ake deco ainting, ratin a g an haunte d fun d ho located at 10960 Haan Road on East Fort for a use, ll ag es!

Bliss. For more information, visit blissmwr.com/ mst or call (915) 744-2452.

Harvest Festival

Haunted Pumpkin Patch and Ghost Stories

tiffany kurak \\ family and mwr marketing

or older to attend. No children are allowed.

The Centennial is located at 11199 Sgt. E. Churchill St. on East Fort Bliss. For more information, visit blissmwr.com/centennial or call (915) 744-1171.

calendar OCTOBER

octoberevents

26

rosalinda herrera \\ family and mwr marketing

Enjoy a spooky good time at the Haunted Pumpkin Patch! From 5-9 p.m. Saturday, October 26, head to Old Fort Bliss for Halloween fun. The pumpkin patch opens at 5 p.m., and the ghost stories begin at 6:30 p.m.

Decorate pumpkins, available in exchange for donations to the museum, on a first-come, firstserved basis. One pumpkin per child ages 3 and up. Children must be present to get a pumpkin.

Bring a lawn chair or blanket and cozy up by the fire pit, where there will be ghost stories for the kids. There will be face painting, food and beverages available for purchase and more.

Old Fort Bliss is located in Bldg. 5054 at the corner of Pershing and Pleasonton roads, on West Fort Bliss. For more information, call (915) 568-4518 or (915) 588-8482.

¡blissNOW! • Fall 2013 • 5

calendar OCTOBER

Zombie Shoot

Watch out, the zombies are coming! Are you a survivor? Find out during the Fort Bliss Rod and Gun Club’s Zombie Shoot.

The battle begins at 5 p.m. Friday, October 11. Participants will test their tactical and decision-making skills with a three-gun combination shoot, while they quickly decide if the targets are innocent bystanders or braineating zombies.

The fee to battle the living dead is $15 per contestant.

The Rod and Gun Club is located at 3730 Roy Johnson Lane, in northeast El Paso. For more information, visit blissmwr. com/rodandgun or call (915) 568-2983.

11

Corn Maze Trip

26

Sixth- through 12th-graders, shake off your heebie jeebies and conquer the La T OC Union Corn Maze from 6-10 p.m. Sat6-10pm CO R N urday, October 26. e maz The YouthPlex will take 100 brave souls to find their way through the winding turns of the maze. A $5 registration fee and permission slip are required for youths to participate.

The YouthPlex is located at 195 Chaffee Road. For more information, visit blissmwr.com/ mst or call (915) 568-5437.

La Union

cipants Limited to 100 parti ired 6th-12th grade requ Permission slip $5 per person 568-5437time of registration. . call 915-CYS n, o ati 4374 at form n i For more registered with S mation, call 915-568-

195 CHAFFE

ROAD

blissmwr.com

infor t be * Child mus S or for more with CYS To register

Bunco

Get out your dice and get ready to roll ... it’s Bunco time!

The historic Pershing Pub will host Bunco at 7 p.m.

Thursday, October 10; Thursday, November 14; and Thursday, December 12. For just $10, you get your Bunco buy-in with snacks included.

You’ll be playing for great prizes, too!

Reservations are recommended.

Pershing Pub is located inside Pace Hall at 243 Club Road on West Fort Bliss. For more information, call (915) 781-6809.

10

Kids’ Halloween Party

26

Bring your little monster out to trick-or-treat at Desert Strike Lanes and enjoy some frightening fun at the Kids’ Halloween Party on the Lanes.

From 7-9 p.m. Saturday, October 26, enjoy $1 bowling for the kids, children’s costume contests with prizes, free goodies and cake, and tons of family-friendly fun.

Desert Strike Lanes is located at 2949 Carter Road on West Fort Bliss. Want to know more?

Check out blissmwr.com/bowling or call (915) 568-6272.

6 • Fall 2013 • ¡blissNOW!

Get ready for the fright of your life: The Massacre on Marshall Road Haunted House is coming to Fort Bliss! Don’t miss the carnage at the Trading Post. Admission costs $5.

The Massacre on Marshall Road will be open on the following nights: • October 16-17: 7-10 p.m.

• October 18-19: 7 p.m.-midnight • October 21-24: 7-10 p.m.

• October 26: 7 p.m.-midnight • October 27-30: 7-10 p.m.

• October 31: 7 p.m.-midnight Make no mistake: This isn’t your grandma’s haunted house. The Massacre on Marshall Road is very scary, and is not recommended for the faint of heart.

The Trading Post is located at 1717 Marshall Road on West Fort Bliss. For more information, call (915) 588-8247.

www.blissmwr.com

calendar OCTOBER Did you hear? The carnival is coming!

But beware ... it is a haunted carn-evil! Celebrate Halloween with ghoulish family fun at Monster Bash, the area’s biggest and best Halloween party.

This year, Monster Bash is set for 5-9 p.m. Friday, October 25 at Biggs Park. We’ve got haunted houses in three scare levels – barely scary, pretty scary and very scary. Admission to the barely scary house costs $1, and the pretty scary house charges $2 and admission to the very scary house costs $3 per person.

While you’re dodging ghosts and getting your scare on, enjoy games and crafts presented by Fort Bliss family readiness groups to raise money for their unit funds.

There will be free carnival rides, a DJ, dancing and entertainment. Food and beverage vendors will be on hand to tame your beastly hunger.

Monster Bash is so much fun, it’s scary! We’ll see you there ... if you dare.

Biggs Park is located at 11388 Sergeant Major Blvd. on East Fort Bliss. For more information, visit blissmwr.com or call (915) 588-8247.

25

www.blissmwr.com www.blissmwr.com

¡blissNOW! ¡blissNOW!• Fall • Fall2013 2013• 7• 7

Performers courtesy of Wise Fool New Mexico.

Chalk the Block, 2012

e r u t n e v d A for the

Taking

this fall. tales, magic is brewing From festivals to fairy

Chalk the Block Download a map and schedule at chalktheblock.com and plan your pop-up gallery crawl, bands and street performers you want to see and the truck food you’re craving (fried Oreos!). All the while, artists from across the Southwest will be chalking color across sidewalks and streets all around you.

October 11–13 • Downtown El Paso

La Viña Fall Harvest Festival Stretch out in the grass and enjoy music, crafts and great wines. More than 20 varieties make choosing tough, but the $20 adult admission gets you a souvenir glass, nine wine samples or a full glass of your favorite. Ages 12–20, $10. Under 12, free.

October 19–20 • La Viña, La Union, New Mexico

Boo at the Zoo Celebrate with more than 240 different species of animals; enjoy games, candy and a costume contest.

An all-day trick-or-treating extravaganza for the entire family to enjoy!

October 26–27 • El Paso Zoo

A Christmas Fair Presented by the Junior League of El Paso Inc. The shopping wonderland that has officially kicked off El Paso’s holiday season for the past 40 years. More than 200 inventive vendors bring out their best-loved gifts, gourmet goodies and seasonal surprises.

November 1–3 • El Paso Convention Center

Million Dollar Quartet The Tony® Award–winning Broadway musical, inspired by the true story of a recording session that brought Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins together for the first and only time.

November 3 • The Plaza Theatre

Green Day’s American Idiot The smash-hit Broadway musical of three lifelong friends forced to choose between their dreams and the safety of suburbia. Based on Green Day’s multiplatinum album, it features hits “Boulevard of Broken Dreams,” “21 Guns” and the blockbuster title track. Adult content and strong language.

December 9 • The Plaza Theatre

Disney Live! Three Classic Fairy Tales Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy bring fairy tales to life, including “Cinderella,” “Beauty and The Beast” and “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.”

Award-winning music, stunning costumes and special effects make it magical.

December 27–29 • Abraham Chavez Theatre

Hyundai Sun Bowl Fan Fiesta • Hyundai Sun Bowl Game Catch performances by mascots, cheerleaders, and a battle of the bands between the competing universities. Admission is free, and a fireworks extravaganza caps off festivities at the end of the night. The 80th annual football classic kicks off the next day. Teams will be announced at a later date.

visitelpaso.com

December 30 • December 31 El Paso Convention Center • Sun Bowl Stadium

Claim your share of more than $12,000 in cash and prizes – just in time for the holidays – at High Stakes Bingo! Saturday, November 9, the Centennial will pay out at least $500 on every winning game during regular-session bingo, plus two jackpots of $2,500 each.

Doors open at 5 p.m. and early-bird games begin at 6:30 p.m. The regular bingo session will begin at 7 p.m.

Buy-ins cost $60 each for 14 games and include a Mexican dinner buffet that will run from 5-6:30 p.m. Don’t miss $3 margaritas!

Pre-sale tickets and electronics will be available October 1. Electronics are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Tickets can be purchased at the Centennial, 11199 Sgt. E. Churchill St. on East Fort Bliss. Buy your ticket early – space is limited to the first 200 people. Pre-sale ends November 7 during Payday Thursday Bingo.

For more information, visit blissmwr. com/bingo or call (915) 744-8427.

calendar NOVEMBER

High Stakes Bingo

photos by heather wilburn \\ family and mwr marketing

Thanksgiving Family Day at the Wall Brunch

Celebrate fall with Thanksgiving Brunch at the Centennial Sunday, November 24.

This holiday feast features a variety of flavors – check out breakfast classics, brunch favorites and, of course, turkey with all the trimmings. Enjoy the omelet bar and carving station, and indulge at the luscious dessert bar.

Don’t forget the complimentary wine, champagne and mimosas!

Thanksgiving brunch costs $18.95 for adults. Pay $8.95 for children ages 5-10.

Children 4 and under eat free.

The Centennial is located at 11199 Sgt. E. Churchill St. on East Fort Bliss. Call (915) 744-8427 for reservations.

24

www.blissmwr.com

24

How’s the view from the top? Find out during Family Day at the Wall, a new addition to the outdoor recreation calendar.

The Soldier Activity Center is normally open to guests ages 18 and older – but on Family Day, the wall is open to all climbers age 6 and up.

Family Day at the Wall runs from

family and mwr marketing photo

noon-8 p.m. Sunday, November 24.

Admission is free; climbing is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Time limits may be instituted if demand is high.

The Soldier Activity Center is located at 20732 Constitution Ave. on East Fort Bliss.

For more information, visit blissmwr.com or call (915) 744-1532.

¡blissNOW! • Fall 2013 • 9

calendar NOVEMBER

novemberevents

Biggs Laser Tag

November 1 • 8pm • Biggs Park Tower Day November 2 • 10am-4:30pm • Tango Tower, Biggs Park Climbing and Cleanup with Southwest Adventure November 2-3 • Hueco Tanks State Park Commander’s Cup Swim Meet November 5-7 • 6am • Aquatics Training Center

Old Fort Bliss Days

8 9

Celebrate the 65th anniversary of the Old Fort Bliss Replica during Old Fort Bliss Days Friday, November 8-Saturday, November 9.

Events kick off with a flag retirement ceremony at 5 p.m. November 8. Learn about proper flag etiquette, and bring flags that need to be disposed of so they can be taken care of in the proper manner. Saturday activities will run from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and are dependent upon volunteer participation. Volunteers are needed to help make the event a success – if you’re interested in being a part of living history, visit facebook.com/oldfortbliss or call (915) 588-8482 to learn more about assisting.

Old Fort Bliss is located at Bldg. 5054, at the corner of Pershing and Pleasonton roads on West Fort Bliss. For more information, visit blissmwr.com/ oldfortbliss or call (915) 568-4518 or (915) 588-8482.

15

Right Arm Night

10 • Fall 2013 • ¡blissNOW!

November 8-9 • Old Fort Bliss Replica High Stakes Bingo November 9 • 5pm • Centennial Bunco November 14 • 7pm • Pershing Pub Right Arm Night November 15 • 5pm • Pershing Pub

17

Rock Climbing Road Trip with Southwest Adventure

November 16-17 • City of Rocks State Park, New Mexico 5K Turkey Trot and Half Marathon

November 16 • 7:30am • Soto Physical Fitness Center Thanksgiving Dinner

November 16 • 3-5pm • Rod and Gun Club Fall Dance: Date Night November 16 • 5pm • Pershing Pub

Commander’s Open Golf Tournament

November 22 • 9am • Underwood Golf Complex Biggs Laser Tag November 22 • 5pm • Biggs Park

blissm

wr.com

Show your “right arm” how much GREAT you appreciDRINK SP ECIALS! ate their service during Right Arm Night, starting at 5 Friday, Nov p.m. Friday, Noember 15 vember 15 at PershPershing P ing Pub. The event is hosted by Fort 2 43 Club ub Bliss Garrison Command.

INSIDE HIST Road OR Br Enjoy a night of camaraderie, free caminargadyoerurie“Right Arm” and enjoy IC PACE HALL a night of , free snacks and great dr Informatio snacks and great music. ink specials n: 915.568. !

6272 Pershing Pub is located at 243 Club Road on West Fort Bliss. For more information, visit blissmwr.com or call (915) 568-6272.

27

Old Fort Bliss Days

Postwide Yard Sale November 23 • 8am-2pm • Housing Areas + Trading Post Colors of Fall Excursion with Southwest Adventure

RIGHT ARM NIGHT

November 23 • McKittrick Canyon Thanksgiving Brunch November 24 • 10am-1pm • Centennial Family Day at the Wall November 24 • noon-8pm • Soldier Activity Center MYAC Giving-thanks Feast November 27 • TBD • Milam Youth Activity Center Skiing + Snowboarding with Southwest Adventure November 30 • Ski Apache, Mescalero, N.M.

Milam YAC Giving-thanks Feast What are you thankful for? The Milam Youth Activity Center would like to share their thankfulness with the Fort Bliss community with a Givingthanks Feast Wednesday, November 27. The students of the center will serve a delicious, free Thanksgiving-inspired feast to all that attend. The

event is open to all Fort Bliss families.

Reservations are required by November 22 for all that wish to join in the festivities.

Milam Youth Activity Center is located at 10960 Haan Road on East Fort Bliss. For more information, visit blissmwr.com/mst or call (915) 744-2452.

www.blissmwr.com

©Disney

Military Tickets $15!

Valid with a military ID. Excludes Opening Night performance, Orchestra Level and VIP seats. No double discounts. Additional fees may apply. Limit of eight (8) tickets per order.

242777

DEC. 27 – 29 disneylive.com

Abraham Chavez Theatre

Fri. DEC. 27

Sat. DEC. 28

Sun. DEC. 29

7:00 PM

4:00 PM 7:00 PM

1:00 PM 4:00 PM

Purchase tickets at the Information Office in the PX through Ticketmaster.

Regular Ticket Prices: $20 • $25 • $30 • $40 VIP Additional fees may apply.

#DisneyLive

calendar DECEMBER

Holiday Festival

Santa Claus is coming to town ... and he’s stopping by the Trading Post for the 2013 Holiday Festival from 5-9 p.m. Friday, December 6.

The event will feature free photos with the guy in the red suit – Santa himself will be on hand –as well as free hot cocoa, cider and cookies.

Fort Bliss family readiness groups will present fun arts and crafts to help raise money for their unit funds. Food and beverage vendors will have holiday treats at the ready.

Dress warmly for this indoor-outdoor event, because there are plenty of outside activities lined up, as well. For more information, visit blissmwr.com or call (915) 588-8247.

6

12 • Fall 2013 • ¡blissNOW!

photos by heather wilburn \\ family and mwr marketing

www.blissmwr.com

Biggs Laser Tag December 6 • 5pm • Biggs Park

Christmas Brunch

2013 Holiday Festival December 6 • 5-9pm • Trading Post MYAC Masquerade Ball December 6 • 6-10pm • Centennial 8K Holiday Run December 7 • 8am • Soto Physical Fitness Center Tower Day December 7 • 10am-4:30pm • Tango Tower, Biggs Park Texas Hold’Em December 7-8 • TBD • Pershing Pub Bunco December 12 • 7pm • Pershing Pub Right Arm Night December 12 • 5pm • Pershing Pub Army-Navy Game Dcember 14 • noon • Centennial SKIES Winter Dance Recital December 14 • 6:30pm • Stayton Theater Bouldering with Southwest Adventure December 15 • Hueco Tanks State Park Breakfast with Santa December 15 • 9am-noon • Rod and Gun Club Christmas Brunch December 15 • 10am-1pm • Centennial Family Day at the Wall December 15 • noon-8pm • Soldier Activity Center Biggs Laser Tag December 20 • 5pm • Biggs Park Bouldering Clinic December 21 • Hueco Tanks State Park Bowling Family Thank-You December 24 • 11am-1pm • Desert Strike Lanes Sun Bowl Brunch December 31 • 10am • Centennial New Year’s Eve Bingo December 31 • 4:30pm • Centennial New Year’s Eve Bowling Blowout December 31 • 10pm-1am • Desert Strike Lanes

15

Celebrate the ho-ho-holidays with a distinctive Christmas Brunch at the Centennial.

From 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday, December 15, enjoy an exciting variety of holiday favorites, including an endless buffet, omelet station, carving station and decadent dessert table.

Brunch costs just $18.95 per person for adults and includes complimentary wine, champagne or mimosas. Pay half price for children ages 5-10; children ages 4 and under eat free. Advance reservations are required.

The Centennial is located at 11199 Sgt. E. Churchill St. on East Fort Bliss. For information, visit blissmwr.com/centennial or call (915) 744-8427.

Breakfast with Santa

calendar DECEMBER

decemberevents

15

Have you been naughty or nice? Let the jolly old elf know just how good you’ve been this year during Breakfast with Santa at the Fort Bliss Rod and Gun Club.

From 8 a.m.-noon Sunday, December 9, enjoy an all-you-caneat breakfast buffet and get a little Christmas cheer from Santa himself.

Breakfast costs $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 3-11; children under 3 eat free.

The Fort Bliss Rod and Gun Club is located at 3730 Roy Johnson Lane in northeast El Paso. For more information, visit blissmwr.com/rodandgun or call (915) 568-2983.

rosalinda herrera \\ family and mwr marketing

New Year’s Eve Bingo

Ring in the New Year with some new cash!

Don’t miss out on $2,000 in guaranteed cash prizes during New Year’s Eve Bingo at the Centennial’s Metro Bingo Bar. It’s all happening Tuesday, December 31.

Ticket buy-in will include a bingo pack, dinner buffet and champagne

toast for the New Year’s observance on the East Coast at 10 p.m.

Doors open at 4:30 p.m. and dinner begins at 5:30 p.m.

The Centennial is located at 11199 Sgt. E. Churchill St. on East Fort Bliss. For more information, visit blissmwr.com/ bingo or call (915) 744-8427.

FIND OUT HOW YOU CAN BECOME A SPONSOR TODAY FAMILY AND MWR COMMERCIAL SPONSORSHIP AND ADVERTISING PROGRAM

Your benefits are great. Your returns are greater.

CALL 915-568-3415 OR LOG ONTO BLISSMWR.COM/SPONSORSHIP www.blissmwr.com

¡blissNOW! • Fall 2013 • 13

KB

Rea lty

915-478-6969

CIRCLE AWARD

Tiffany Kurak Family and MWR Marketing

Fort Bliss Family and MWR is successful not only because of the wonderful community that we serve, but because of the passion, heart and commitment displayed by our staff.

There are many stars in our ranks, but one who shines especially bright is Melinda McWeeny, assistant manager at the Fort Bliss Rod and Gun Club.

“I have always had a soft spot for the military community,” said McWeeny. “Being a military spouse gives the work I do extra meaning. Being able to give back to the military community means so much to me.”

Between juggling deployments, two teenagers and being a family readiness group leader, McWeeny still finds the time and energy to excel at work. At the Rod and Gun Club, she creates new, family-friendly events each month, and continuously raises the bar. From Starlight Movie Night to Breakfast with Santa, McWeeny has created fun memories for Rod and Gun customers of all ages.

The extra effort is worth it, she said.

“Seeing that moment of excitement and happiness on a patron’s face because of something I have done is very rewarding,” she noted.

In addition to her duties at the Rod and Gun Club, McWeeny has also begun developing special events for the Pershing Pub. “Being able to utilize both facilities has allowed me to reach out to different audiences. Rod and Gun is great for family events,” said McWeeny, “and Pershing Pub is awesome for adult events.”

McWeeny is always looking for new ideas and exploring new territory.

“I love getting ideas from the people who use our facilities, and trying a program that hasn’t been done before,” she added.

Melinda’s motivation and positivity is infectious.

“Melinda has literally built the special event portion of the Rod and Gun Club from the ground up,” said Jason Propheter, manager at the Rod and Gun Club. “Her strengths are opposite of mine; she is fantastic with food and beverage as well. We make a great team.”

Keep an eye out for this stellar employee; she is sure to shine.

www.blissmwr.com

Winner’s Circle Employees go above and beyond

Each quarter, Family and MWR holds the Winner’s Circle award ceremony to recognize employees who have gone above and beyond to provide excellent service for the Soldiers, families, retirees and civilians we serve. Winner’s Circle is a directorate-level incentive awards program primarily designed to recognize outstanding customer service and teamwork by Family and MWR staff members.

Each quarter, staff members are nominated by their peers, patrons of Family and MWR or outside agencies, or are identified by name in an ICE comment.

The following staff members are “Commitment to Excellence” winners for routinely going above and beyond to provide exceptional service to internal and external customers.

margarita pinales

3RD quarter 2013

Exceptional Family Member Program

Amanda stone

Property Book Office

Ruben rodriquez Bowling Center

amanda cuiksa Centennial

isaac Pepper Automation

peter frantz

Replica CDC

kimberly gold

Relocation Assistance Program

jonette poole

The “Effective Team” award is given to recognize the accomplishments of a team who work together in harmony to produce outstanding results. The selection committee decided that the teams below were deserving of the award.

3RD quarter 2013 special events

Juana Gamboa

jose angel rodriguez

fort bliss hiring fair

Centennial

elizabeth bernal Replica CDC Replica CDC

Middle School & Teen Program

rosa diaz Golden Tee

lucy flores

DFMWR Administration

Deanna Woodson Centennial

sandra kelly Biggs Gym

mary duncan-bell Army Emergency Relief

matthew frank Automation

evelyn sherlock Outdoor Recreation

neal gardner

Team Bliss Sports, Fitness and Aquatics

veronica l. martinez Golden Tee

FAMILY and MWR

MWR

recognition

MWR

William Ketcherside Lora-Lynn Diem Christopher Bohn Marlo Brestar Kristopher Brown Helen Barrientes Wendy Foxx Pamela Thomas Juanita Harley Jennifer Goldsmith Ana Hernandez Patricia Rees Hector Gutierrez Tianna Bowden Tabitha Bohn Heather Wilburn Meredith McLean Eileen McCormick Ella Kellum Jessica Carbajal Maria Marshall Deana Garcia

To nominate a Family and MWR employee for a Winner’s Circle award, contact Melinda Scott at (915) 568-3500. To submit a compliment or suggestion for improvement for any Family and MWR program, check out the ICE system at http://ice.disa.mil.

¡blissNOW! • Fall 2013 • 15

16 • Fall 2013 • ¡blissNOW!

www.blissmwr.com

Music by

tra ony Orches r o Symph cto the El Pas v Rattay, Condu Bohusla

only El Paso's ence Day Independ show! ht lig r se la

at 5pm tes open July 4 • Ga • East Fort Bliss rk Biggs Pa

Heather Wilburn, Family and MWR Marketing

to d crafts Gs Games an ey for FR raise mon ic or enjoy t cn food cour Bring a pi od truck our fo RED BY: SPONSO

FORD LINCOLN

NO

SS GES, GLA SITE LIC BEVERA ATM ON ALCOHO OUTSIDE S, OR PETS - NO RMATION MORE INFO CONTAINER R.COM FOR

568-6741

CALL 915-

NISSAN

OR BLISSMW

, 6:00 PM September 14g @ Fort Bliss sin

Freedom Cros

5k Fun Walk 8k Run and Divis ion 8k Run Military Team

ool 8k Run

Corporate/Sch

PM nts start at 4:00 Pre-Race Eve 9 -5794 or 568-025 rmation, call 744 For more info ightrun.com

age @ www.gan trun or visit our webp Oktoberfest Nigh nt German American Sponsorship does not imply Army endorseme

On Facebook

blissmwr.com

www.blissmwr.com

FirstLight Federal Credit Union is right at the heart of Fort Bliss – both literally, with two convenient locations on post, and figuratively, with the support they provide to Family and MWR through corporate sponsorship.

If the name FirstLight sounds familiar, it’s probably because you’ve seen it at Family and MWR events throughout the year. From serving as title sponsor of the German American Oktoberfest Night Run to sponsoring the Pop Goes the Fort Independence Day celebration and the Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers program, FirstLight is ready and willing to lend a hand.

“FirstLight Federal Credit Union is proud to support Soldiers and their families since 1955,” said Natalia Flores, military relations and community events manager at FirstLight. “Partnering with Family and MWR has been one of the ways we can give back to our troops.”

In this time of decreased funding and tighter budgets, the generous support of commercial sponsors like FirstLight Federal Credit Union helps make possible events that might not otherwise take place. Next time you’re at a Family and MWR function, take a moment to thank FirstLight and our other sponsors – you might not be there without them.

sponsor SPOTLIGHT

Spotlight on

wr.com www.blissm

*The U.S. Army, Department of Defense, federal government and Family and MWR do not endorse any vendors, goods or services.

¡blissNOW! • Fall 2013 • 17

18 • Fall 2013 • ¡blissNOW!

www.blissmwr.com

Great customer service - Now more than ever!

“A customer is the most important visitor on our premises, Our customers are not dependent on us. We are dependent on them. They are not an interruption in our work. They are the purpose of it.

They are not an outsider in our business. They are part of it. We are not doing them a favor by serving them. They are doing us a favor by giving us an opportunity to do so. ” – Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi

www.blissmwr.com

Cathie Garner, Customer Service Program Coordinator

Amidst all the uncertainty that is going on in our nation and the world, Family and MWR remains dedicated to creating an environment for our customers that is predictable, consistent, efficient and customer-focused. Our commitment to providing high quality products and services, with a cheerful greeting, is our priority – now more than ever! Even when faced with challenging situations, we will do our best to deliver service excellence commensurate with the quality service our service members provide to our nation.

In keeping with the promises made through the Family and MWR Customer Covenant, our customers will: • Always be respected and treated as individuals who are valued • Receive a prompt and friendly greeting in a professional and courteous manner • Experience aesthetically pleasing facilities • Receive timely, accurate and helpful information

• Be offered high quality products and services • Have an opportunity to provide feedback The essence of good customer service is forming a relationship with our customers. By viewing the world from the customers’ point of view, we want to make a real difference by providing personalized, responsive and “extra mile service” that stands out in such a unique way that our customers will appreciate and remember it.

Our mission is to do all that we can to meet the needs of our service members and their families. We have the honor and the opportunity to touch the lives of service members and their families daily. We must show them that we are here to support them not only here at Fort Bliss but at every military installation across the world. We are the first impression most of them have of the military, and our customer service sets the tone for their experience! As we continue moving forward toward another year and beyond, challenges and obstacles will come our way. But we remain focused on our mission of excellence. It costs nothing to greet people with a smile and show genuine concern for their needs. We must continue to take that extra step every day which is to provide the best customer service possible to the best customers in the world! It is more important than ever to always “Choose Excellence!”

– Inspired by a Family and MWR Garrison Director

around FAMILY and MWR

You can depend on us

¡blissNOW! • Fall 2013 • 19

This year, we held the third annual blissNOW! Cover Photo Contest on our offical Facebook page Chelsea Clukey is the proud new owner of a DSLR camera, courtesy of USA Dicounters, but we yadira salazar

jennifer

woods

jonette poole

Priscilla

armendariz

blythe harlan

jennifer carpenter

jaclyn valentino

20 • Fall 2013 • ¡blissNOW!

at facebook.com/blissmwr. You voted and chose the winner, which can be found on the cover of this issue of ¡blissNOW! magazine. received so many amazing entries that we couldn’t resist sharing here ... we hope you enjoy the photos as much as we did!

OICE

H R’S C O T I ED

emily hart

elizabeth loman

www.blissmwr.com

jessica tu rpin

¡blissNOW! • Fall 2013 • 21

sadie peirce

stacey hare

tammy loveless

anne corcoran

michelle colewell

geisha abdullah

susen waller

22 • Fall 2013 • ¡blissNOW!

davina whitaker

ILLA RISC

P

aracely willy

RIZ

ENDA

ARM

angelea ulvi

jayne duncanson

sadie pierce

cynthia

gatling

Anne corcoran belinda lopez

jayne duncanson

ELIZABETH LOMAN

www.blissmwr.com

¡blissNOW! • Fall 2013 • 23

Let Family and MWR catering make your celebration shine Tiffany Kurak, Family and MWR Marketing

The holidays are a time for celebrating with the people around us. The Centennial Banquet and Conference Center, the Golden Tee at Underwood Golf Complex, and the Fort Bliss Rod and Gun Club are here to help cater to all of your party needs.

Whether you have a party of 20 or are throwing a soiree for 1,000, Family and MWR catering facilities can help throw you the party of your dreams. The welltrained staff can help you create a menu that will tantalize the taste buds of all of your guests. With Family and MWR’s new executive chef Damien Donaldson leading the kitchen staff, your guests are sure to go on a culinary ride with the unique flavors and inspirations he brings to the kitchen.

The facilities also give you a wide variety of décor options that will amaze all who attend, allowing you as much or little creative freedom you need to set the stage for your memorable bash.

El Paso is known for its mild winters; why not take your party outdoors? The Rod and Gun Club, the Centennial and the Golden Tee all offer large outdoor patios that can house your gathering. Views of the beautiful Franklin Mountains line the backdrop of the Golden Tee and Centennial, while you can opt for a more rustic desert view at the Rod and Gun Club.

“We want to make sure that we are able to accommodate all of our customers’ different special events with something that is beautiful and affordable,” said Claudine Morgan, manager of the Golden Tee. “We want people to leave here and tell their friends about the wonderful food, service and overall experience they had.”

All Family and MWR catering facilities offer competitive pricing, plenty of parking and a knowledgeable staff that will help your catered dreams come true. Let our team of professionals help you spread holiday cheer with less stress than ever – book your holiday parties soon!

To explore the many options you have for planning your next celebration in a Family and MWR facility, call (915) 744-1171 or visit blissmwr.com/catering.

• Portraits • Weddings • Sports • Events • Pets

clubs FOOD&FUN

Holiday cheer

fort bliss catering services photos

Looking to bring a modern touch to your next celebration? The catering professionals at Family and MWR can make your event shine by using the latest decorative trends. If your style is more traditional, they’ve got that covered, too.

When you plan a party with Family and MWR catering, we take the guesswork out of everything from menu options to table linens and decorations. You have the freedom to customize your event!

The Golden Tee at Underwood Golf Complex offers an elegant venue for holiday celebrations, hail and farewell celebrations, and more. Manager Claudine Morgan and her staff can offer flexible options for every event.

20% off any service

coupon not to be used in conjuction with other discount offer

will be at the Fort Bliss Trading Post for a three day special

Dec. 2-4

11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Array of products & services • 302photographyco@gmail.com

10% of proceeds benefit Fort Bliss OCSA.

www.blissmwr.com

¡blissNOW! • Fall 2013 • 25

clubs FOOD&FUN

New kid in town

Executive chef brings exciting flavors to Family and MWR Tiffany Kurak, Family and MWR Marketing

tiffany kurak \\ family and mwr marketing

Executive Chef Damien Donaldson is the newest member of the Family and MWR culinary team.

Chef Donaldson will bring his vibrant flavors to the menus at the Centennial, Golden Tee and Fort Bliss Rod and Gun Club.

Freedom-ElPaso[FBM1012].pdf 1 9/11/2012 3:46:40 PM

26 • Fall 2013 • ¡blissNOW!

Fort Bliss Family and MWR has a new chef on the block, and his name is Damien Donaldson.

While he’s new to Fort Bliss, Chef Donaldson is no stranger to a kitchen.

“I have been cooking since I was very young,” Donaldson said. “Growing up in a house full of women, I was always around food.”

A graduate from Johnson and Wales University, Donaldson has been able to share his culinary skills at naval bases and restaurants around the country, including a stint at the French Embassy in Washington D.C., and experience the U.S. territories of Puerto Rico and Guam.

Donaldson has mostly focused his experience in the catering field.

“I love catering because the menu is always changing,” Donaldson said. “Catering is fast-paced and allows for my creativity. It keeps it interesting.”

Catering has also lent itself as a venue through which Donaldson learned to spe-

cialize in multiple cuisine styles.

“I like to say that I don’t specialize in any one type of cuisine – more like I specialize in all foods,” he explained.

Joining the Fort Bliss Family and MWR team is a homecoming for this El Paso native.

“Growing up we were always on Fort Bliss; it gives me a special connection to this community,” Donaldson said. “It is exciting to see how the post has changed and all of the new programs that are here.”

As Donaldson settles back into the El Paso community, he will begin bringing his own flavors to the Family and MWR menus around post, including the Centennial, Golden Tee and Rod and Gun Club.

He also plans on bringing culinary classes back to the Fort Bliss community.

“Food is my passion, and it is great to share it,” he noted.

Looking towards the future, Donaldson’s culinary skills promise new flavors and dishes at Fort Bliss. But simply put, his goal is to bring “good food” to the plate.

www.blissmwr.com

Family fun is in the bag at the Fort Bliss Rod and Gun Club manager of the Rod and Gun Club. “This is a great way to bring the family together, Fall into the cooler season with themed without the stress of cooking and serving family fun at the Fort Bliss Rod and Gun a big meal.”

Club this autumn.

The dinner will cost $12 for all attendThe Rod and Gun Club will battle zomees 12 and older and $6 for children ages bies during its first-ever Zombie Shoot, 3-11. Seating is limited, and reservations starting at 5 p.m. October 11. For $15 per are required. person, each contestant will use a threeSpeaking of Thanksgiving, it’s time to gun combination to unite their tactical bag your Thanksgiving dinner during the skills and decision making while quickly annual Turkey Shoot at 9:30 a.m. Novemdeciding which target is an innocent byber 23. Test your skills and win a turkey for stander or brain-eating zombie. Prizes will your Thanksgiving table. Games will inbe given out to the top shooters.

October will be full of spooky ghosts The Rod and Gun Club’s popular Trunk or Treat event clude, quail walk, Annie Oakley, five-stand returns October 18 for a second year. This year, organizand 410 using both .22-caliber and shotgun. and ghouls for the Trunk or Treat and ers have added a haunted house to the festivities.

On-site registration begins at 9 a.m.

Haunted House from 6:30-9 p.m. October Santa Claus is coming to town, and he will make a special ap18. Gather your courage and walk through the spooky haunted house, or have a little fun and enter into the trunk decorating con- pearance at the club from 9 a.m.-noon December 15. Breakfast with test. Little ones can also enter into the competitive spirit by joining Santa allows guests to enjoy a tasty breakfast buffet and a photo op the children’s costume contest, with categories for ages 0-3, 4-10 and with Santa. A $10 fee applies for all attendees 12 and older; pay $5 for children ages 3-11. Children under age 3 eat free. Seating is limited, 11-15. Registering your trunk to hand out candy is encouraged.

The Rod and Gun Club will host a Thanksgiving dinner from 3-5 and reservations are required.

The Fort Bliss Rod and Gun Club is located in northeast El Paso p.m. November 16.

“There are never enough opportunities to have your whole at 3730 Roy Johnson Lane. For information, visit blissmwr.com/rofamily around the dinner table,” said Melinda McWeeny, assistant dandgun or call (915) 568-2983.

Tiffany Kurak, Family and MWR Marketing

clubs FOOD&FUN

All treats, no tricks

rosalinda herrera \\ family and mwr marketing

Need money this summer for something important? YES! Need it now? YES! Come to the people who love to say yes.

For 63 years Omni has been making loans exclusively to the military. In need of a personal loan for any good reason? Come to Omni.

Fixed rate loans from $500 to $10,000 but only with your ability to repay in mind Fast, friendly and above all trustworthy service and you can apply by phone Satisfaction Guaranteed or we’ll cancel your loan at no cost to you

Come in, call, or apply online at www.yesomni.com

3910 Dyer Street • El Paso 915-566-OMNI(6664)

F I N A N C I A L

(Next to Papa John’s) Hours: M-F 9AM to 7PM and Sat. 10AM to 4PM

“We love to say yes”

© Omni Financial. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. All loans subject to approval.

See website or ask your loan representative for details of satisfaction guaranteed cancellation policy.

www.blissmwr.com

¡blissNOW! • Fall 2013 • 27

recreation southwest adventure

photo by matthew wilburn

City of Rocks State Park, located in southern New Mexico, provides the perfect venue for a camping and climbing road trip. Join Southwest Adventure on this overnight excursion and let the outdoor recreation experts take care of the details: transportation, equipment, park entry fees and guide services are all covered with your advance ticket purchase. For more climbing challenges, check out trips to Hueco Tanks, a competition at the Soldier Activity Center and more.

Fall in to adventure

With autumn’s perfect weather, there’s no better time to get outdoors Meredith McLean, Family and MWR Marketing

southwest adventure photos

28 • Fall 2013 • ¡blissNOW!

Come celebrate the seasons with Southwest Adventure! The outdoor recreation calendar this quarter is packed with fun for everyone. From movies and laser tag to hiking and skiing, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

If you are an avid climber, head on over to the Soldier Activity Center at 5 p.m. October 10 for the climbing competition. The competition is open to climbers of any ability level, and will be divided into different competitive categories from beginner to advanced. The Real Rock Film Tour will directly follow the climbing competition. Outdoor enthusiasts of any age are encouraged to come together and celebrate the “greatest climbing and adventure stories” at this movie event.

October 26, come out and geocache with Southwest Adventure while helping the Army Volunteer Corps clean up the Fort Bliss wetlands on Make A Difference Day. Whether you are a novice or an expert, everyone is encouraged to come out and geocache.

“The really great thing about this event is that anyone can participate,” said Kenny Coppedge, outdoor recreation program manager. “It is free to attend and people who have never been before or don’t own their own GPS can rent them from Southwest Adventure at a low cost.”

The day’s events will take place in Fort Bliss’ wetlands area, a large area set aside for storm water drainage, which most have never set foot in. While looking for the hidden treasures, participants will learn about the environmental impacts of these man-made wetland areas and also perform a good deed by helping to clean up this often-forgotten area.

If laser tag is more your thing, come out to Biggs park. Biggs Laser Tag is held several times throughout the quarter: October 4, November 1 and 22, and December 6 and 20. It begins immediately as the park closes for the day and is fun for the whole family.

November 23 enjoy the fall colors on a guided hike through McKittrick Canyon. On this guided trip, hikers will

www.blissmwr.com

Date:

Activity:

Location:

$$

Includes:

October 3

Beginner Outdoor Workshop

Soldier Activity Center

FREE

Instruction on outdoor safety, fitness and desert awareness

October 4

Biggs Laser Tag

Biggs Park

$10

Entry fee, laser tag equipment *For all ages

October 5

Tower Day

Tango Tower, Biggs Park

$6

Unlimited use of Tango Tower on morning or afternoon ticket for climbers 6 and older

October 10

Climbing Competition Soldier Activity Center

$6

Entry fee, equipment usage

October 10

Reel Rock Film Tour

Soldier Activity Center

$6

Screening of world’s best adventure and climbing films

October 11-14

Big River Adventure

Big Bend State Park

TBD

Transportation, equipment, guide services, some meals

October 26

Geocaching and Wetlands Cleanup

Fort Bliss Wetlands

FREE

Transportation, guide services - GPS rental available

October 27

Family Day at the Wall Soldier Activity Center

FREE

Free use of the climbing wall for guests age 6 and over

November 1

Biggs Laser Tag

Biggs Park

$10

Entry fee, laser tag equipment *For all ages

November 2

Tower Day

Tango Tower, Biggs Park

$6

Unlimited use of Tango Tower on morning or afternoon ticket for climbers 6 and older

November 2-3

Hueco Tanks Climbing Hueco Tanks State Park and Cleanup

FREE

Transportation, equipment, guide services, park entry

November 16-17

Rock Climbing Road Trip

City of Rocks State Park, N.M.

$75

Transportation, equipment, guide services, some meals

November 22

Biggs Laser Tag

Biggs Park

$10

Entry fee, laser tag equipment *For all ages

November 23

Colors of Fall Excursion McKittrick Canyon

$10

Transportation, equipment, guide services, some meals

November 24

Family Day at the Wall Soldier Activity Center

FREE

Free use of the climbing wall for guests age 6 and over

November 30

Snowboarding + Skiing

Ski Apache Mescalero, N.M.

$50

Transportation and lift ticket - Equipment rental available

December 6

Biggs Laser Tag

Biggs Park

$10

Entry fee, laser tag equipment *For all ages

December 7

Tower Day

Tango Tower, Biggs Park

$6

Unlimited use of Tango Tower on morning or afternoon ticket for climbers 6 and older

December 14

All-Day Bouldering

Hueco Tanks State Park

$18

Transportation, equipment, guide services, park entry

December 15

Family Day at the Wall Soldier Activity Center

FREE

Free use of the climbing wall for guests age 6 and over

December 20

Biggs Laser Tag

Biggs Park

$10

Entry fee, laser tag equipment *For all ages

December 21

Bouldering Clinic

Hueco Tanks State Park

$35

Professional climbing instruction, transportation, equipment rental, guide services

December 28

Snowboarding + Skiing

Ski Apache Mescalero, N.M.

$50

Transportation and lift ticket - Equipment rental available

learn some history and hear many stories about the Guadalupe Mountains National Park while soaking in all of its natural beauty. It is a low intensity hike and will be fun for hikers of any skill level.

If you are looking to enjoy some fresh powder this winter, head out with South-

www.blissmwr.com

west Adventure December 28 as they go to Ski Apache for a day of skiing and snowboarding. This is the first in a series of ski and snowboarding trips that Southwest Adventure has planned for the cooler months and is open to participants of any ski or snowboarding ability level.

recreation southwest adventure

southwest adventure calendar of events

To learn more about Southwest Adventure, visit blissmwr.com/SouthwestAdventure or facebook.com/blissodr. Check in by phone at (915) 744-1532, or stop by Southwest Adventure headquarters at the Roberto Loeza Soldier Activity Center, 20732 Constitution Ave. on East Fort Bliss.

¡blissNOW! • Fall 2013 • 29

Fort Bliss Sports rounds out 2013 with a full calendar Meredith McLean, Family and MWR Marketing

sports calendar

Lace up your running shoes and get ready to pound the pavement this fall with Fort Bliss Sports, Fitness and Aquatics. From the 2-Mile Training PT Run in October to the 8k Holiday Run in December they have a schedule this fall that will accommodate runners of any ability level.

The 2-Mile Training PT Run is set for 6:30 a.m. October 4 at Soto Physical Fitness Center, 20751 Constitution Ave. on East Fort Bliss. The race is part of the Commander’s Cup competition and is open to all Fort Bliss ID card holders. On-site registration will run from 5:30-6:15 a.m. the day of the event.

November 16, runners can choose their challenge at the 5K Turkey Trot or Fort Bliss Half Marathon. The 5K Turkey Trot begins at 8:30 a.m. and is a family-oriented event. Rather than medals, runners who place in the 5K event receive real turkeys. The Half Marathon is set to begin at 7:30 a.m. and is aimed at more advanced runners.

“The best part of the 5K Turkey Trot last year was the young gentleman who won his age division, and took home a turkey for his family to cook on Thanksgiving day” says Aaron Jones, Fort Bliss sports director. “And it’s always nice to see families who enjoy getting active together.”

December brings cooler weather, but that doesn’t mean athletes head for the indoors.

“Even in December runners have something to look forward to in El Paso,” said Holly Imbriaco, intramural sports coordinator.

December marks the return of the annual 8K Holiday Run. Families are encouraged to participate and make it a holiday tradition.

The run will take place on December 7 at 8 a.m. at Soto PFC. In addition to the runs offered this quarter, the sports program will close out the 2013 schedule with non-running events such as Trap and Skeet and the Halloween Classic Basketball Tournament.

The first-ever Commander’s Cup Trap and Skeet Championship will be held at the Fort Bliss Rod and Gun Club at 6 p.m. October 21-22. This competition is open to active-duty Soldiers only, but spectators are welcome to come join in the festivities. Rosters for this event are due by October 16 to the Soto PFC sports office.

The Halloween Classic Basketball Tournament also returns

EVENT NAME AND ELIGIBILITY

recreation sports&fitness

Finishing strong

photo courtesy of sgt. robert golden

Above: Swimmers dive into the pool at Replica Aquatic Center during the 2012 Commander’s Cup Swim Meet.

This year’s competition will take place November 5-7 at the new Aquatics Training Center on East Fort Bliss.

Left: A young runner collects his turkey prize following the 2012 5K Turkey Trot. This year’s event will also feature a half marathon.

fort bliss sports, fitness and aquatics photo

to the schedule this fall. It will be held from October 25-27 at multiple sporting venues on Fort Bliss. It is a double-elimination tournament that is open to all teams. This tournament draws a wide variety of participants from Fort Bliss, El Paso, and even military installations outside of Texas.

For more information on the runs or any Fort Bliss Sports, Fitness and Aquatics league or event, call (915) 744-5794.

DATE

COMMANDER’S CUP EVENT?

LOCATION

Open to active-duty fort bliss military Commander’s Cup Trap and Skeet Championship

October 21-22

Fort Bliss Rod and Gun Club

Yes

Fort Bliss Combatives Tournament

November 6-8

Soto Physical Fitness Center

Yes

Commander’s Cup Basketball

January 15

Multiple venues on Fort Bliss

Yes

open to all military ID holders 2-Mile PT Training Run

October 4

Soto Physical Fitness Center

Yes

Commander’s Cup Swim Meet

November 5-7

Aquatics Training Center

Yes

Women’s Basketball League

January 30

Milam Physical Fitness Center

No

Open to fort bliss and el paso community Halloween Classic Basketball Tournament

October 25-27

Multiple venues on Fort Bliss

No

5K Turkey Trot and Half Marathon

November 16

Soto Physical Fitness Center

No

8K Holiday Run

December 7

Soto Physical Fitness Center

No

Fort Bliss Half Marathon

January 11

Soto Physical Fitness Center

No

www.blissmwr.com

¡blissNOW! • Fall 2013 • 31

recreation sports&fitness

A new lease on life

Fitness patron loses 100 pounds through diet, group exercise Tiffany Kurak, Family and MWR Marketing

tiffany kurak \\ family and mwr marketing

Angela Collins lost 100 pounds through a combination of diet and exercise with Fort Bliss’ group fitness program. Free classes like Zumba helped Collins meet her goals while staying engaged with her fitness program.

Diet, exercise and hard work are sometimes easier said than done. Angela Collins, a Fort Bliss spouse, has found the secret to her fitness success – taking the “work” out of working out.

“Working out shouldn’t be something you hate; it needs to be something you genuinely enjoy doing,” said Collins.

Collins started her road to health more than a year ago.

“There is a string of health issues that run through my family, and I knew I wanted to be healthier,” she said.

Collins started by cleaning up her diet and hitting the gym.

“It is such a privilege to have so many facilities on Fort Bliss that offer quality programs that are free,” she noted.

“I tried different workouts, but working out isn’t fun.

Zumba changed that.”

Attending Zumba classes at Soto Physical Fitness Center on East Fort Bliss, Angela danced off 100 pounds.

“Zumba is great! You have fun the whole time you are there, and the time goes by so fast,” said Collins, “I had a wonderful instructor; she has been supportive and motivational the whole time,” said Collins.

“Zumba is more than just a workout, it is a network and support group,” said Michelle Abeyta, a former Family and MWR fitness instructor who helped Collins reach her fitness goals. “I encourage anyone, no matter what fitness level they are, to find (a class or program) they love and pursue it.

“As an instructor, it is motivational to see the progress in your clients and the excitement they have,” she added.

Angela has her own advice for those starting down the path to a healthier lifestyle.

“Find what works for you,” she counsels. “Being healthy is a lifestyle, not a phase. Keep it interesting and fun.”

Fort Bliss Sports, Fitness and Aquatics has six physical fitness centers located on Fort Bliss and offers a wide variety of group fitness classes. Facilities and classes are free for all ID card holders. For locations and the latest schedules visit www.blissmwr.com/aerobics.

Daniel B. Gerard R

E

A

L

T

O

R

“Taking care of those who take care of us”

DANNY@DANNYGERARDREALTOR.COM

915-996-5552

GOLDEN REAL ESTATE

1320 ZARAGOZA SUITE 120 EL PASO TEXAS 79936 WWW.DANNYGERARDREALTOR.COM WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/DANNYGERARDREALTOR

32 • Fall 2013 • ¡blissNOW!

MILITARY DISCOUNTS • FIRST MONTH FREE!

24-HOUR KEYPAD ENTRY • FREE TRUCK USE WITH UNIT RENTAL 10520 Dyer Street • El Paso • 915.373.6171 • 915.821.4350 www.blissmwr.com

recreation sports&fitness

Kicking it into high gear

Fort Bliss hosts 2013 World Military Taekwondo Championship Meredith McLean, Family and MWR Marketing

The world will converge on Fort Bliss as the installation host the 2013 World Military Taekwondo Championship. The invitational tournament will bring in teams from more than 25 countries across the globe.

Spectators are encouraged to attend the events that run from October 15-20. Admission is free.

The tournament kicks off with opening ceremonies at 7 p.m. October 15 at Stout Physical Fitness Center.

Preliminary sparring competitions will run October 16-19 from 9 a.m.-noon and 2-5 p.m. each day at Soto PFC. Finals and daily award ceremonies will take place each day beginning at 6 p.m. at Stout PFC. Closing ceremonies will wrap up the competition at 10 a.m.

October 20.

The World Military Taekwondo Championship is facilitated by the International Military Sports Council – or Conseil International du Sport Militaire – one of the largest multidisciplinary organizations in the world. It is responsible for high-caliber sporting events for armed forces in its 133 member nations. The organization’s motto, Friendship Through Sport, shows the heart of their work, which is to provide friendly sporting events to Soldiers who may have met previously on the battlefield.

The championship is held in a different nation each year. At the end of the last competition the Vietnam Organizing Committee passed the honor of hosting this event to the U.S. chief of mission, who chose Fort Bliss to host the competition out of the many U.S. military instillations.

Fort Bliss has a military-wide reputation for innovation, planning and performance when it comes to sporting events.

“Fort Bliss is pretty well known for high-quality special events in the sporting world, so our reputation is already strong,” said Eric Hildreth, Community Recreation Division Chief for Fort Bliss Family and MWR. For the full schedule of events and more info visit www.blissmwr.com.

photo courtesy of the conseil international du sport militaire

Competitors square off during the 2012 World Military Taekwondo Championship, held in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Fort Bliss has been selected to host the 2013 event, which will take place October 15-19. Spectators are welcome and admission is free.

Bliss is pretty well “ Fort known for high-quality

special events in the sporting world,so our reputation is already strong.

RELIANCE OUTDOOR SUPPLY g Gear

Climbin

”

Outfitting, High Adventure & Homestead Supplies

1060 Doniphan Park Circle #F El Paso, TX 915-760-8232 www.relianceoutdoorsupply.com

www.blissmwr.com

¡blissNOW! • Fall 2013 • 33

Holiday Brunches at th

Thanksgiving Sunday, November 24

Christmas

Sunday, December 15

blissmwr.com

e Cent e n n i a l

Featuring: Breakfast favorites, lunch classics, turkey with all the trimmings and decadent desserts

Complimentary champagne, wine or mimosas!

Seatings from 10 am-1 pm $18.95 per person

Half price for children ages 5-10 • Children 4 and under eat free The Centennial, Bldg. 11199 Sgt. E. Churchill St., East Fort Bliss Reservations required • Call 744-8427 for reservations or information

High Saturday, November 9th at Stakes the Centennial Bingo **Hurry, space is limited to the first 200 people

blissmwr.com/bingo

11199 Sgt. E. Churchill St. East Fort Bliss Call 744-8427 for more info

Doors open at 5pm, early bird games start at 6:30pm and the session starts at 7pm

Presale tickets and electronics begin October 1. Electronics are limited; first-come, first-served.

Presales end November 7 during Payday Thursday Bingo.

14 Games / $60 Buy-in Includes 1st paper bingo pack & 1 Mexican dinner buffet Enjoy $3 margaritas!

from 5pm to 6:30pm

2 JACKPOTS - $2,500 EACH! 34 • Fall 2013 • ¡blissNOW!

$12,000

in cash prizes Minimum payout of $500 on winning games

*All cash prizes will be divided equally if there are multiple winners www.blissmwr.com

New book club puts creative spin on teen reading Meredith McLean, Family and MWR Marketing

New members are

always

welcome

If you love to read and are between the ages of 13-17, Mickelsen Community Library is starting up a club for you! At 4:30 p.m. on the first Thursday of every month, head on over to the purple couch at Mickelsen Community Library and enjoy their new, creative take on a teen book club.

The club differs from the traditional book club format because members will not all read the same book at the same time. Each month, readers will be presented with a theme relevant to teenagers, such as individuality or conflict, and will choose from a list of books that relate to the chosen topic.

When the club reconvenes on

the first Thursday of each month, over snacks, the group will discuss the theme and readers will be asked how the topic played into their book of choice.

“We really want the teens to feel a sense of ownership in the library and share their love of books with other like-minded teens,” said Amy Bermudez, the library technician who oversees the club’s activities.

“That’s what this club is all about.”

Mickelsen Community Library is located at 2 Sheridan Road on West Fort Bliss. The library is in the basement of E Wing.

For more information, visit blissmwr.com/library or call (915) 568-6156.

really “We want the

book club

es 13-17 A club for book lovers agridan Road

2E She Mickelsen Library // Bldg. month // 4:30pm h eac of ay rsd Thu 1st Meets Info: 568-6156 blissmwr.com

teens to feel a sense of ownership in the library ...

recreation leisure

A good read

”

TAKE CREDIT FOR MAKING A SMART CALL. For a limited time, switch to Sprint from another carrier and receive a $100 service credit for each eligible newly activated line of service.

OFFERS FOR ARMY PERSONNEL SAVE WITH DISCOUNTS

15

%

off select regularly priced Sprint plans Req. new 2-yr agmt.

Use this code to claim your discount.

Corporate ID: GA1AR_ZZZ

GET A SERVICE CREDIT OF

$

100

for each eligible new-line activation when you move from another carrier. Req. new 2-yr agmt/ actvation per line.

*GA1AR_ZZZ*

VISIT SPRINT.COM/PROMO/ iL30864PC within 72 hours of port-in activation to request your $100 service credit.

Don’t delay! Offer ends 1/9/2014.

Get your best deal online at sprint.com/dod

Activ. Fee: May req. $36/line. Credit approval req. Early Termination Fee (sprint.com/etf): After 14 days, up to $350/line. IL Port-in Offer: Offer ends: 1/9/2014. $100 port-in credit for smartphones, feature phones and mobile broadband devices. Available only to eligible IL accounts with valid Corp. ID. Requires port-in from an active number (wireless or landline). Svc credit request must be made at sprint.com/promo within 72 hours from the port-in activation date or svc credit will be declined. Ported new-line must remain active 61 days to receive full svc credit. Excludes Nextel Direct Connect devices, tablets, upgrades, replacements, and ports made between Sprint entities or providers associated with Sprint (i.e., Virgin Mobile USA, Boost Mobile, and Assurance), all CL and plans less than $10. Port-in Payment Expectations: Svc credit will appear in adjustment summary section at account level. If the svc credit does not appear on the first or second invoice following the 61st day, visit sprint.com/promo and click on “Where’s my Reward”. Individual-Liable Discount: Available for eligible company, org. or agency employees (ongoing verification) Discounts subject to change according to the company’s org.’s or agency’s agreement with Sprint and are available upon request for monthly svc charges on select plans. No discounts apply to second lines, Add-A-Phone lines or add-ons $29.99 or less. Other Terms: Offers and coverage not available everywhere or for all phones/networks. Restrictions apply. Nationwide Sprint Network reaches over 278 million people. Sprint 4G LTE network reaches over 100 markets, on select devices. Visit sprint.com/coverage for info. Sprint 4G LTE devices will not operate on the Sprint 4G (WiMAX) network. Sprint 3G network (including roaming) reaches over 287 million people. See store or sprint.com for details. ©2013 Sprint. All rights reserved. Sprint and the logo are trademarks of Sprint. Android, Google, the Google logo and Google Play are trademarks of Google Inc. The HTC logo, and HTC One are the trademarks of HTC Corporation. LTE is a trademark of ETSI. Other marks are the property of their respective owners.

N135215CA MV1234567

www.blissmwr.com

¡blissNOW! • Fall 2013 • 35

family CYSS

Boredom busters

Middle School and Teen Program keeps kids active, engaged Tiffany Kurak, Family and MWR Marketing

“I’m bored,” is the last thing you’ll be hearing from your kids this season. The Fort Bliss YouthPlex and Milam Youth Activity Center have oodles of events to keep your teen busy through the holiday breaks and weekends.

The YouthPlex kicks off the fall season with the annual KLAQ Haunted House and movie night from 6-11 p.m. October 5. The event fee is $10 per person, and is limited to the first 100 youths registered for the event. From 6-10 p.m. October 26, the YouthPlex will venture out with 100 brave sixth- through 12thgraders to conquer the La Union corn maze. A $5 fee and permission slip is required for all participants.

Also be on the lookout for YouthPlex trips to UTEP and local high schools for games, weeks of fun during the Thanksgiving and holiday Hodge Podge, “Where is Waldo?” at Cielo Vista Mall and tubing in Ruidoso, N.M., through November and December.

The YouthPlex is located at 195 Chaffee Road on West Fort Bliss.

For more information, call (915) 568-5437.

The Milam Youth Activity Center will hold its annual Harvest Festival from 2-6 p.m. October 19. The family-friendly event is open to guests of all ages; with face painting, cupcake decorating, a haunted house and much more, the event will be a howling good time!

Master Auto Body 4020 Nations Rd

isco

ry d

ta mili

unt

November 27, the MYAC students and staff are remembering to give thanks with La Unio n their Giving-thanks Feast. The talented MYAC students will prepare and serve the delicious feast in the afternoon. The Givingthanks Feast is a free event, open to all Fort Bliss families. Reservations are required no later than November 22.

“This event is awesome because it allows for the kids to take ownership,” said Susan Goss, MYAC director, “it helps to teach them responsibility and time management.”

Have a child of mystery? The MYAC will host its third annual Masquerade Ball December 6 at the Centennial Conference and Banquet 6th-12th gr ad $5 per pe e Limited to 100 part Center. The night icip rson Perm ission slip re ants and open to all For more i will consist of dinn qu fo irFedree rm * Child ation, m To regis ust be registe cal 915-568ner, dancing and 54 red with ter with 37 CYSS or for m CYSS at time ore info o costumes from 6-10 rmation f registration . , call 9 15-568 -4374. p.m. This ball has very limited seating and reservations are required in advance.

Call the Milam Youth Activity Center for ticket information.

Milam Youth Activity Center is located at 10960 Haan Road, East Fort Bliss. For more information, call (915) 744-2449.

Learn more about both 2-6pm er 1oa9d ••East Fort Blihssouse, b o t c O YouthPlex and MYAC prod Haan R ! haunte 10 960 ting, a fun for all ages ce pain d grams on the Middle School Enjoy fa ecorating an 5-744-2452 ed ll 91 cupcak For more info, ca and Teen Program website at blissmwr.com/mst.

CO R N

OCT

maze

6-10pm

ST E V L A HAR V I F E ST

195 CH

AFFE

ROAD

blissm

wr.com

y Center h Activit Yout am Mil

wr.com blissm

Master technician on site

El Paso 79930

915-479-3575 - Jon

Custom paint Collision repair Vehicle modification Custom interiors

!! ed e t ran uote

ua

q tten wri ork y n w at a me est l be he sa l i w w t lo for We

gg

cin pri

36 • Fall 2013 • ¡blissNOW!

www.blissmwr.com

family CYSS

Pitch perfect

Hit all the right notes with music classes at SKIESUnlimited Tiffany Kurak, Family and MWR Marketing

The Fort Bliss SKIESUnlimited program wants every child to have the opportunity to tap into their inner rock star, classical musician or explore their own musical expressions.

“We offer a wide variety of music classes here,” said Joy Clickener, SKIES director.

“We want children and parents to have options when they are deciding which music class to join.”

Music is more than learning how to carry a tune, or read the notes on a page. Music helps teach children to focus, improves math skills and helps build confidence as they step onto the stage for the yearly recital.

The group classes help drive students to be their best, Clickener noted.

“The group setting of these classes is great, because the kids play off of each other,” she explained. “When one excels, the other ones want to excel, too.”

For $60 per month, your child can learn the sweet melodies of the violin, learn to be pitch-perfect in voice lessons, tickle

tiffany kurak \\ family and mwr marketing

Students in SKIESUnlimited music classes, including piano, can learn focus and confidence, and even improve math skills, as they learn to explore musical expression. the ivories of the piano, or jam out on the drums. Guitar lessons are also available for a monthly fee of $45-50.

“Music invokes creativity and awakens the imagination,” said Zack Morrison, SKIES guitar instructor. “Children’s minds are much more open, and they can create

outside-of-the-box compositions.”

Not interested in a group setting? No worries: SKIES also offers private lessons for all music classes. For a full listing of class schedules or for more information, call (915) 568-5544 or (915) 568-7187 or visit blissmwr. com/SKIES.

Ask about discounts for Active Military at The Golf Course & Spirit of The Mountain

www.blissmwr.com

¡blissNOW! • Fall 2013 • 37

family CYSS

We’ve got spirit!

Hit all the right notes with music classes at SKIESUnlimited Tiffany Kurak, Family and MWR Marketing

tiffany kurak \\ family and mwr marketing

Students in the SKIESUnlimited competition cheer class rehearse a stunt during practice.

SKIES offers cheerleading classes for every level, from pre-cheer for students ages 4 and older, to beginner cheer and competition cheer for more advanced students.

We all want our children to be confident, well-rounded young people. SKIESUnlimited strives to help instill team-building, confidence and a positive attitude. What better way to achieve this than being a part of a cheer squad? “Cheerleading isn’t just hair bows and pom poms,� said Joy Clickener, SKIES director. “The deeper values that are taught to children through team sports are what we focus on.�

Beginning at the age of 4, children may register for pre-cheer. The class will start with the basics: refining gross motor skills, building strength and teaching students how to work as a team. “Teaching children a skill at a young age is so important. They will carry those skills with them for the rest of their lives,� Clickener added.

Students may enroll for beginner cheerleading starting at age 8. The class will continue to develop the skills taught in pre-cheer and enhance students’ tumbling, dance and jump abilities. Beginner cheer

will also get the cheerleaders-in-training ready to cheer at sporting events and participate in competitions.

For all of the die-heard little cheerleaders, advanced competition cheer is available for students ages 5 and older. This class introduces complex routines, challenging jumps, floor skills, tumbling, advance dance steps and stunts. “Children are just as proud as their parents to show off all of their hard work,�

Clickener noted. “Teaching them the value of hard work is essential, but watching them have fun while they do it makes it all worthwhile.�

Cheerleading classes run on a monthly basis, and cost $40 each month. Registration begins each month on the 20th prior to the month you are registering for, and ends on the 7th. For a full listing of class schedules or for more information, call (915) 568-5544 or (915) 568-7187 or visit blissmwr.com/SKIES. All children must be registered with CYSS to be eligible for enrollment. For more information on registering your child, call (915) 568-4374.

 �� � �

 ­€  ‚

 ƒ „

 „  … † �† „ …

 ‡‚ ˆ Â? Â? ‰Š‹ 38 • Fall 2013 • ÂĄblissNOW!

Â

www.blissmwr.com

www.blissmwr.com

¡blissNOW! • Fall 2013 • 39

community ACS

ACS to the rescue!

Essay contest winners share their stories of ACS assistance Heather Wilburn, Family and MWR Marketing

For almost 50 years, Army Community Service has provided “Real Life Solutions for Successful Army Living” to Soldiers, family members, retirees and the civilian employees who serve our nation.

When ACS celebrated its 48th birthday in July, they marked the occasion with an essay contest. Patrons were encouraged to submit essays detailing how ACS has helped them. Organizers received 10 entries describing an event, occasion, class or assistance from ACS that had positively impacted the lives of the writers.

“It was so fulfilling to see our customers’ stories about how ACS has helped improve their lives,” said Sally Gonzalez, manager of the Information, Referral and Outreach Program at ACS. “Helping people improve their quality of life is our main focus at ACS, so it’s nice to hear that our programs and services have made a difference.”

Joanna Schulz won first place, and an ACS prize pack, with her essay describing how ACS helped her become part of a new community when she was a brand-new Army spouse at Fort Lee, Va. When her family moved to Fort Bliss, she again relied on ACS to help her get established.

“I am so grateful for the roles that ACS has played in my life over the past several years,” she writes, “and I am excited to say that I have now completed training to be an AFTB volunteer instructor, in hopes that I can give back to the program that has given me so much.”

JC Heygood took second place with an essay about how the simple act of attending the People Encouraging People (PEP) newcomer’s orientation opened up a world of possibilities.

ACS also helped her family “survive” their Soldier’s first deployment.

“If it was not for the ACS staff who put these programs together, my family’s life here in El Paso would not be as rewarding as it has been,” Heygood wrote. “The staff always goes above and beyond for the families here – they have been a shoulder to cry on in times of stress, offered words of wisdom I needed to hear, helped find answers to random questions that no one else seemed to know (or care) about, and really shown that there is a true Army family here at Fort Bliss.”

If you want to learn more about how ACS has helped members of the Fort Bliss community, read on. The essays will be also displayed for a limited time in the Yellow Ribbon Room at ACS, 2494 Ricker Road on West Fort Bliss.

40 • Fall 2013 • ¡blissNOW!

Joanna Schulz First Place

As a brand new Army wife living thousands of miles away from my hometown, I quickly became lonely and confused.

I had no friends, no job, and was living in a rented room in a house off of a country road near Fort Lee, Va. I had been married for one month and my husband had driven me “on post” a few times, but aside from that I had no experience with the military lifestyle.

One day I was off post speaking with a retired Soldier, and he asked if I had ever been to Army Community Service. I had never heard of ACS, but he described it to me as a good place for Army newcomers to start and gave me their address. After several more lonely days of sitting at home and staring at the walls, I reluctantly decided that I would stop by the ACS building.

When I walked into the building, I was greeted by a very friendly woman, and I started explaining my situation. Almost immediately, another woman popped out of an office and introduced herself as the ACS Volunteer Coordinator. She asked me if I would be interested in volunteering, but I told her I was unsure if I could be of any help as I did not know anything about the Army. She reassured me that there were many ways that I could help, and said that if I wanted to learn about Army she could help me sign up for some classes. I said okay, and after some paperwork she invited me to come back the next day for training.

The next day when I arrived, the friendly woman at the ACS front desk began training me on how to be an ACS volunteer. She gave me cheat sheets to learn the Army ranks, and helped explain the etiquette of Soldiers that were walking through the building. At first I felt intimidated by the Soldiers on post, but after speaking with them at ACS, I learned that the vast majority of them were friendly and polite. Soon I was very comfortable at ACS, and my volunteer hours went up from four a week to 25 hours a week. I was very happy as an ACS volunteer, as I was learning a lot about Army programs, and felt that I was making a valuable contribution. It was great to get out of the house and meet new people, while helping others receive the information they needed. I learned that I was not the only Army wife to ever experience confusion and loneliness, and found it very empowering to help others who were in similar situations. After several months as an ACS volunteer, my husband received orders to Fort Bliss, which I was nervous about as I

remembered how difficult my transition to Fort Lee had been. My supervisor at ACS quickly calmed my fears by giving me the name of a friend she had that works at the Fort Bliss ACS. When I arrived at Fort Bliss I immediately went to ACS and then to the Family Resilience Center, where I was greeted by several friendly employees.

They told me about the resources offered at Fort Bliss, and helped me to enroll in ACS’s Employment Readiness Program. After meeting with my Employment Readiness specialist, I began receiving emails about employment opportunities. In one email, I saw a job for a volunteer services director at a local nonprofit organization. Remembering how important my volunteer experience at Fort Lee’s ACS had been to me, I decided I wanted the chance to help other people have valuable volunteer experiences as well.

I placed my ACS volunteer experience on my resume and I applied for the job. Two weeks later, I was hired for that position, and I have been working there ever since. I am so grateful for the important roles that ACS has played in my life over the past several years, and I am excited to say that I have now completed training to be an AFTB volunteer instructor, in hopes that I can give back to the program that has given me so much.

JC Heygood Second Place

I have been an Army wife for the past eight years, but Fort Bliss is the first post that I genuinely feel a part of, and that is largely due to ACS. I had heard of Army Community Service before, but I never really took part in many activities or classes at previous duty stations. Attending the PEP class shortly after moving to El Paso last summer changed that. On the first day of class, I learned about so many programs that I knew I wanted to participate in as soon as I heard about them. Since then, I have taken all three AFTB classes, ASIST, MRT, AFAP, and so many other ACS programs (with more already on my calendar). Not once have I felt that participating was a waste of my time, and I have gotten so much out of each and every one of them.

It is hard to narrow it down to one program that has positively impacted my life, but I honestly credit ACS with helping my family and me to “survive” my husband’s first deployment. I learned a lot about the Army and leadership skills at AFTB, discovered my signature strengths at resilience training, and took part

www.blissmwr.com

in an amazing “support group” with other spouses of deployed Soldiers through Hearts Apart. If it was not for the ACS staff who put these programs together, my family’s life here in El Paso would not be as rewarding as it has been. The staff always goes above and beyond for the families here – they have been a shoulder to cry on in times of stress, offered words of wisdom I needed to hear, helped find answers to random questions that no one else seemed to know (or care) about, and really shown that there is a true Army family here at Fort Bliss. I’ve made so many friends in my short time at Fort Bliss, and most of them I met at various ACS classes, programs and events. These friends will last much longer than our time here, so indirectly, Fort Bliss’ ACS will continue to positively impact my life even after we PCS. For that and so much more, I will always be grateful.

Brenda Y. Grajeda Gamboa Third Place

As I saw the invitation to share how ACS has made a positive impact in my life, my brain started overflowing with images, words, faces, events and my heart was filled with an array of emotions…

When I first arrived at Fort Bliss in June 2010, I was a new immigrant, a new Army wife, and a new mom (my second child, eight years apart from her sister). Yes, I am sure some of you understand what I am talking about – I was excited, scared, worried, lost and ready to explore this new life. We all know how rewarding and difficult it is to be a military family, we all have tasted the sweetness and bitterness of this journey WE have chosen: being an Army service man/ woman, Army wife/husband, Army son/daughter. As time went by I was told by some new friends about all the great services ACS had to offer for us newcomers and also for us veterans in this Army world. Finally life threw some curve balls my way and I found the courage to walk through those doors that held so many surprises for me- (FAP, AER, immigration information, legal referral, Lending Closet, activities, couples classes, individual classes, food pantry referral, computer use, printer use, copier use, Employment Readiness, Financial Readiness, etc. etc.).

When I was referred to FAP I was worried, I was scared and I was lost, but the first thing I remember is walking through the door and seeing a friendly face, with a warm smile and reassuring tone. As I went to “the back” to meet with my advocate I couldn’t believe I had kept myself from this place for so long. The “belle of the ball” was my baby girl (“Pamper Booty” became her nickname), with awe-filled eyes and delicious smile that made everyone forget for a second that our day was not going well… and my oldest, as shy as she seemed, melted everyone with her sweet voice and loving nature. After being in FAP I was advised to go to Financial Readiness, Employment Readiness, sign up for some classes, give good use to the lending closet, meet with the immigration specialist and get involved in any activity that would remind me that I was not alone, that I was no stranger. ACS provided a safe haven, a direction, and a meaning to being part of the Army Family. ACS was the witness to my child’s first steps and my eldest’s first lost tooth. They became my support, my cheerleaders, my peace amidst a storm, my ray of sunshine and my shoulder to cry on. Each class, each service, each experience would have no meaning if it had not been for the people that made me feel welcome, loved and accounted for.

Now I can call myself a “not-so-new Army wife,” a legal alien, a “made-it-through-the-terrible-2’s” mom and an improved human being thanks to the treasure I discovered when I walked through ACS’s doors.

Jessica Nelson

We moved to El Paso, Texas, (Fort Bliss) almost three years ago. This was our first duty station. Didn’t have anything and didn’t know anything. Right away ACS helped us with their lending closet. They provided air mattresses, kitchen cook/eating wear, table and chairs, explained what the Junior Enlisted Family Center was and explained where it was located so we could get some sheets. Provided tons of information about the area and where to go for things. I found out shortly after moving here I was pregnant. Thanks to ACS I knew where to go for a blood test. Over time we got settled and become comfortable in the area. But things happen, life loves to throw curve balls and try

community ACS

ACS to the rescue! Continued to knock us down. ACS has always been right there to help out in any way they can. The people who work there have always been super kind and understanding. Beyond helpful! It’s wonderful to know there’s ACS there to help you get back up. There’s tons of classes that help with budgeting and rebuilding credit and child care is included. ACS has helped with diapers during a time in need, food and emergency money.

This is our first and sadly also our last duty station. The programs the Army has, including ACS, will be missed very much. But it’s been wonderful to learn and explore new things, learn how to better myself and my family. I just hope people learn and understand it’s ok to ask for help when needed. That’s what the programs are for.

Thank you ACS, and happy birthday!

SSG James A. Fisher

I first met the woman who would one day be my wife in what was then East Germany in 1990, shortly before the Reunification of Germany. I went my way in life, and she did likewise. Neither of us knew our acquaintance would one day be so much more. I enlisted in the Army in 1998, and two years later found myself in Germany again, where the opportunity arose for me to seek her out and begin a relationship. Unfortunately, the events of 9-11 overtook us and duty called me elsewhere, eventually sending me on four deployments and four PCS moves. Finally, some eight years since our last contact, we found each other and reignited the relationship. We were married in the summer of 2011.

Being a foreign national, there were certain issues that we had to address pertaining to her immigrations and residency. This already burdensome process was even more complicated by yet another PCS move. At every step, however, we were always able to find help through the immigration and naturalization services offered through ACS in conjunction with the United States Customs and Immigration Service. The professionals and volunteers at ACS were able to explain requirements and options as we navigated the maze of laws, regulations, forms and fees, and were constantly caring, supportive and friendly. Their guidance and support has made it possible for us to successfully complete the

Mauricio Solano, MBA Broker/REALTOR/US ARMY (Retired)

WORRIED ABOUT BUYING, OR SELLING YOUR HOME? DON'T WORRY, CALL MAURY!!!

"PARA UN BUEN SERVICIO LLÁMELE A MAURICIO"

915-309-6513 Visit me at: www.maurysolano.com E-Mail me at: maury.solano@yahoo.com

www.blissmwr.com

¡blissNOW! • Fall 2013 • 41

community ACS

ACS to the rescue! Continued final form needed to gain her official permanent residency. We are looking forward to engaging the services of ACS as we prepare for her eventual naturalization.

Salvador Heredia

How has ACS helped me? I had to ponder about this question. My wife and I are very self-sufficient individuals so ACS was never a critical need for us.

We were resourceful in finding solutions on our own.

I started to appreciate ACS more when I became a leader and constantly sent Soldiers and their families to get ACS assistance. After closer consideration, I realized that ACS did something special for me after I retired. ACS helped me maintain a strong sense of belonging to the military community.

When I retired, after 32 years of service, I was not ready to leave behind the desire to help Soldiers and their families. I appreciate ACS much more than when I was in the service. Before, I thought of ACS as something that was there for me and my Soldiers without giving it much thought. Now I have this fire to tell Soldiers and their families all the services available to them. On one occasion I met a young Army wife, at the mall, and told her all that was available for her family at ACS and her eyes were wide open listening. I gave her my card and later she wrote me an email saying her husband was amazed that her wife met a real life sergeant major and that she was going to look into the ACS programs.

Wherever and whenever I can I tell people what ACS can do for them. Thank you ACS for keeping my desire to help Soldiers and their families going.

Laureen Vilchek

I would like to give a standing ovation to a resource right here on Fort Bliss. Have you ever wondered when you have a permanent change of station (PCS) to Fort Bliss, what is it going to be like here? How am I going to find my way around in a place I was not familiar with? How am I going to fit into this new community and meet other Army wives? How does the Army do things? I was in this same situation two years ago, and had these same questions.

Then I found out about a great resource called the Army Community Service, or as we know it here on

It Works!

WRAP YOUR ABS

Fort Bliss, ACS. ACS has many services they provide.

The website of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation at (www.blissmwr.com), where you can register for these programs, says, “Fort Bliss Army Community Service leads the Army in providing many quality services to assist soldiers and their family.” This was true for me.

The programs I used were the Army Family Team Building, Employment Readiness, Volunteer Corps, and Relocation Assistance, but there are many other programs, too. AFTB taught me the facts of living in the Army community and its challenges. They also informed me of the different resources throughout Fort Bliss and El Paso. Employment Readiness helped me to write a resume and regularly informs me of new job openings. Financial Readiness helped me with credit card issues, clipping coupons, and ways of saving money. The Relocation Assistance program has programs like Dinner on a Dime, bus tours around El Paso, Fort Bliss, Las Cruces, N.M., and the Hearts Apart program. The Volunteer Corps helped me get into volunteering with the Hearts Apart program, and they can assist other spouses and family members to get into volunteer programs for the Army community.

The Hearts Apart program is very dear to my heart, and this is why I decided to volunteer. The Hearts Apart program is a group for spouses and family members of deployed Soldiers. The program helps spouses and family members make friends, and it also puts them in touch with other Army spouses and family members going through the same things I was going through – things like loneliness, sleepless nights, dramatic events and issues. If there are any Army spouses or family members who feels the same way I did, and did not get the memo on the welcome packet from ACS, just know the resources are there.

The ACS is run by wonderful staff and volunteers.

Luckily for me, I got my information by word of mouth, which I found out is the way a lot of Army spouses and families get their information. This is to let all new Army spouses, family members and others who have been here for a while that there is a great resource center right in your back yard, and it is called the Army Community Service.

Spc. Tyisha Jones

How did ACS classes help me?

It was a Tuesday and class was scheduled at nine, but I had to take my daughter to a very important appointment that I could not miss. To make a long story short, I received shocking news that changed my life forever; there was an experience of stress that I had never felt before. I still went to class as if nothing had happened and I was late.

Instead of the instructor yelling at me for being late, she proceeded with the class and the topic she was discussing seemed as if it was directed right to me.

The instructor did not have a clue what my morning had been like. As the class kept going she made the environment feel comfortable to a point that I could share what had happened to me. I began to tell the story. The sincerity she had on her face, not just her but the entire class ... She gave me different stress pamphlets on how to deal what I was going through and, believe it or not, it helped. I initially wanted to take my stress and anger out in a different direction, but after the class and tools she had given me, I thought through the situation and looked at it from someone else’s point of view.

I initially signed up for ACS classes just to look like I was trying to better myself, not having a clue that the tools that the instructors provided would impact the rest of my life. The first step into rehabbing from a bad situation is taking ownership of the problem and being proactive about fixing the situation before it is too late. I took anger management and stress management, which go hand-in-hand with each other. The instructors took the time to actually learn you before judging you and just giving you tools to check the block. I have a little story that I would like to share on how the class actually helped me in a real-life situation.

Today I’m a better person for me and my daughter. The classes gave me tools to use in everyday situations. Some things, we cannot control, but most of them we can. All you have to do is seek help and that help that’s out there, use it and take advantage of it. People enjoy my presence now and I can use what ACS has given me to help someone else.

NEED TO MAKE TAPE ?

SEE RESULTS

45

MINUTES! IN AS LITTLE AS • TIGHTENS, TONES & FIRMS PATR ICI A INDEP ENDENT DISTR IB UTO R

• • • •

Improves skin texture & tightness Progressive results over 72 hours Minimizes cellulite appearance The Ultimate Body Applicator is a non-woven cloth wrap infused with a powerful , bontanically-based formula to deliver maximum results.

( 5 75 ) - 791 - 5 819 www.itriminches.com FOR MEN AND WOMEN 42 • Fall 2013 • ¡blissNOW!

www.blissmwr.com

community ACS

Recognize, report, prevent

In October, FAP helps raise awareness of domestic violence Meredith McLean, Family and MWR Marketing

Domestic violence is an issue that affects our society in a staggering way. One in four women experience the effects of domestic violence and people between the ages of 16 and 24 experience the highest rates of domestic violence. Domestic violence is something that plagues our community, but it can be prevented – and awareness of the issue is the first step in prevention.

In October, in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Family Advocacy Program at Army Community Service will offer several activities that help raise awareness of domestic violence, and teach people how to recognize, report and prevent domestic violence.

FAP kicks off events with the Domestic Violence Awareness Fair from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. October 3 at the Family Resilience Center, located at 250 Club Road on West Fort Bliss.

Many agencies will be on hand to

www.blissmwr.com

answer questions, including the El Paso County Atttorney’s Office, the District Attorney’s Office, Child Protective Services, Child Crisis Center, Staff Judge Advocate, Sheriff’s Victim Advocates, Center Against Family Violence and more. There will be giveaways and prizes at this event.

Judging and the announcement of the winner of the Family Advocacy Program Domestic Violence Poster Contest will be announced.

In addition to the informational fair, FAP will offer daily seminars from October 15-18. These seminars will cover various topics related to domestic violence recognition and prevention, and will take place at the Family Resilience Center. Visit blissmwr.com/fap for a full schedule.

For more information on the Domestic Violence Awareness Fair, or other events happening during Domestic Violence Awareness Month, visit blissmwr.com/fap or call (915) 568-9129.

blissmwr.com/fap

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS FAIR October 3 // 9am-1pm Family Resilience Center // 250 Club Road Information booths, prizes, giveaways and more.

"End Domestic Violence - Recognize It, Report It, Prevent It" • Info: 568-9129/9134

¡blissNOW! • Fall 2013 • 43

community ACS

Making a difference

starts with you

Participate in the nation’s largest day of helping others Tephanie Hopper, Army Volunteer Corps Manager

Make A Difference Day is the most encompassing national day of helping others – a celebration of neighbors helping neighbors.

Created by USA Weekend magazine, Make A Difference Day is an annual event that takes place on the fourth Saturday of every October. Over the years, millions have participated in Make A Difference Day. In 2012, more than 3 million people cared enough about their communities to volunteer on that day, accomplishing thousands of projects in hundreds of towns. Anyone can participate in Make A Difference Day. Young and old, individuals and groups, anyone can carry out a volunteer project that helps others. It might be as ambitious as collecting truckloads of clothing for the homeless, or as personal as spending an afternoon helping an elderly neighbor or relative.

Participating in Make A Difference Day will have a dual impact. Of course, you are providing a service to the community, helping your neighbors, and making Fort Bliss and El Paso a nicer place to live. Because Make A Difference Day is sponsored in partnership with Points of Light and Newman’s Own, which donates $10,000 to the charities of 10 selected efforts, you have a chance to make an enormous financial impact should your project be selected for the $10,000 donation. In addition, three cities will be awarded $10,000 each from Newman’s Own in recognition of their Make A Difference Day good deeds. Also, one past national honoree will receive the Encore Award of $10,000 from the Gannett Foundation.

The Fort Bliss Army Volunteer Corps office has contacted nonprofit and government agencies in the community to find out what their most pressing needs are. The projects vary, but all represent a need that can be filled by you. In order to participate, please select the project that best fits your group’s size and talents from the list of projects provided by the Fort Bliss Army Volunteer Corps office. Your group’s point of contact will fill out a participation form and return it to us. You will be put in contact with the organization that supplied the project, and then on October 26, you will supply the labor to complete that project. After you complete the project you will fill out a feedback form to let us know how everything turned out. The Fort Bliss Army Volunteer office will submit all projects, along with photos, to USA Weekend.

The nonprofits have told us what they need – all we need now is your help! If you would like more information about how your unit or organization can participate in Make A Difference Day, contact the Fort Bliss Army Volunteer Corps office at (915) 569- 4ACS ext.7 or fortblissvolunteer@yahoo.com. Change the world, Volunteer!

44 • Fall 2013 • ¡blissNOW!

www.blissmwr.com www.blissmwr.com

FORT BLISS & FAMILY FRED WILSON RD

SLICER A

MA ST

agord To Ala m

SHERIDAN GATE

29 7

28 40 8

54

CLUB RD

46

PERSHING RD

SHERIDAN RD

CASSIDY GATE

SLATER RD

41

54

CUSTER RD

PIKE RD

DONIPHAN RD

DYER ST

HAAN RD

ARTILLERY RD

SU

47

ADAIR RD

15

14 2 24

13

30 55

PERSHING GATE

SH

ER

ID AN

EL PASO, TEXAS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT MILITARY AREAS DR

MILITARY GATES ING

SH

1 BUILDING LOCATIONS PE R

TROWBRIDGE

ST

To I-10

RADFORD AVE

GATEWAY BLVD NORTH

LOCATIONS WITH WI-FI GATEWAY BLVD SOUTH

RUSSELL ST

RUSSELL ST

HUMPHREY RD

A PH RD

PIEDRAS ST

27

McNAIR RD

NI

PIA

CO

568-1117 565-4100 568-2115 569-2331 533-1244 568-2121

WORK AVE

HAYES ST

EMERGENCY NUMBERS Fire Emergencies Housing Areas Military Police Ambulance Poison Information Post Operator

VICTORY A

DO

ELM ST

3

G

500B (915) 568-3301 Adjutant General (915) 568-4849 45 American Red Cross 7060 (915) 562-8461 Armed Services YMCA 2494 (915) 569-4227 Army Community Service (915) 568-7280 Automotive Skills Center/Auto Crafts 820 Bowling Center/Desert Strike Lanes 2949 (915) 568-6272 (915) 630-8669 197 Car Wash (915) 568-1519 112 Chaplain 1730 (915) 568-5689 Child Development Center, Main PIERCE AVE Child Development Center, Replica 5036 (915) 569-7199 504B (915) 568-6287 Civilian Personnel Office 1717 (915) 568-4022 Commissary (915) 568-5380 250 Community Pool (915) 568-3500 11 Family and MWR Headquarters (915) 569-5500 250 Family Resilience Center (915) 568-5563 820 Framing Bliss PX: Freedom Crossing (915) 562-7200 Post Exchange, Grand Theatre Third-party Shops 1741 (915) 568-2833 18 Garrison Command VAN BUREN AVE 7777 19 Hospital: WBAMC 7777 (915) 742-2121 Information 7777 (915) 569-2331 Ambulance MONROE AVE 7777 (915) 569-CARE Appointments 7777 (888) 874-9378 TRICARE Service Center 7777 (915) 742-2483 Red Cross 1991 (915) 564-0795 20 Housing: On-Post/Balfour Beatty T-0070 (915) 568-5309 21McKINLEY Housing: Off-Post AVE 1744 (915) 565-7777 22 IHG Army Hotels at Fort Bliss (915) 568-3035 505 23 In-Processing/Welcome Center (915) 568-1241 8 24 Inspector General 2951 (915) 568-2892 25 Ironworks Gym West 1611 (915) 569-6446 26 ITR Kiosk at Freedom Crossing 1991 (915) 566-1133 27 Kelly Park (915) 568-7141 113 28 Legal Assistance 1310 (915) 564-5275 29 FORT Dunkin’BLVD Donuts (915) 568-6156 2 30 Mickelsen Community Library 2499 (915) 568-7318 31 Milam Fitness Center 1735 (915) 568-5412 32 Old Ironsides Museum 5054 (915) 568-4518 33 Old Fort Bliss Replica 2968 (915) 568-7393 34 Omar Bradley Softball Complex 1743 (915) 568-4374 35 Parent Central/CYSS Registration (915) 568-6272 243 55 Pershing Pub 1733 (915) 562-4036 36 Post Office (915) 568-7506 37 POV Car Resale Lot 1334 (915) 568-1537 38 Recycling Center 5035 (915) 568-7431 39 Replica Aquatic Center (915) 568-7187 131 40 SKIESUnlimited Gymnastic Center 2010 (915) 568-2178 41 School-Age Center, Bliss 5037 42 School-Age Center, Replica (915) 568-6923 43 Soldier and Family Assistance Center 887 2496 (915) 742-3858 44 Soldier and Family Medical Clinic 2930 (915) 568-3264 45 Stout Physical Fitness Center (915) 568-5970 241 46 Survivor Outreach Services (915) 569-5449 262 47 TennisAVE Club & Fitness Zone ALTURA Transportation (915) 568-4339 505 48 Inbound Transportation RICHMOND AVE 503B (915) 568-8218 49 Outbound Transportation 1717 (915) 730-9803 50 Trading Post (915) 562-7467 A Little Bit of Bliss Gift Shop (915) 562-5451 Fort Bliss Thrift Shop (915) 564-0009 Junior Enlisted Family Center Indoor Playground AURORA AVE 2408 (915) 569-5644 51 USO 503A (915) 568-1890 52 Vehicle Registration WHEELING AVE 6077 (915) 742-2266 53 Veterinary Services (915) 568-KIDS 195 54 Youth Services 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17

COPIA ST

PIEDRAS ST

ELM ST

ST

LOUSIANA ALABAMA ST

Telephone

N HI RS R PE CI

ALABAMA ST

Bldg.

RD

FORT BLISS LEGEND

BO

ALABAMA GATE

No. Organization

RD

19

ER

N O IG RD L EL N cK YO M AN C

o

ALABA

AND MWR FACILITIES Bridge to East Fort Bliss

FRED WILSON RD

AVE

CHAFFEE GATE

EARL H. BRUNS RD

35 22

Fort Bliss National Cemetery

32 36 9

PIKE RD

AIRPORT RD

12

FOUNDERS BLVD RD

PLEASONTON RD

26 17

Bridge to East Fort Bliss

HAAN RD CARRINGTON

50

37

CHAFFEE RD

MARSHALL RD

20

SHANNON VAN VALZAH RD

JEB STUART RD

18

HINMAN RD

AVE

STENNIS ST

38 45

CASSIDY

31 PLEASONTON RD

44

N

A

M

ER AM CR

RD

25

34

53

JEB STUART RD

TAYLOR ST

48 23

LEIGH FISHER BLVD

CARTER RD

6

MERRITT RD

El Paso International Airport AIRPORT RD

PERSHING RD

33

RD

SHERIDAN RD

ROBERT E. LEE GATE

HOOD RD

BOEING DR

STONEMAN RD

HUGHEY GE

ST

IM ON GER ST

JEB STUART SOUTH

ID

D GRU S MA

BR

AIRWAY BLVD

SCALES RD

FORSYTH RD

ROBERT E. LEE RD CHASE RD

PL

HOWZE ST TR OW

IR DR

CONVA

DICKMAN RD

AIRWAY BLVD

ON EAS

TON

RD

ASHBURN ST

39

MORGAN AVE

DUDLEY ST

42 10

JEB STUART RD

AN

WILLARD HOLDBROOK RD

RD

4

R

KE

C

CARTER RD

1 11 52 49

IN

CHAFFEE RD

RI

21

UMNER RD

REMAGEN GATE

51 H

16 5

43

BUTTERFIELD TRAIL BLVD

YAQUI WY

NA MONTA

AVE

62 180

ck

o To Lubb

EAST FORT BLISS EAST FORT BLISS LEGEND No.

Organization

1 2 3 4 5

Aquatics Training Center Biggs Express Biggs Park Biggs Physical Fitness Center Centennial Club Catering Dining Room Habanero Java Cafe Primo’s Express Metro Bingo Bar 6 Child Development Center, East Bliss 7 Child Development Center, Milam 8 Community Center Troop Store 9 East Bliss Mini Mall 10 Ironworks Gym 11 Military Police Station 12 School-Age Center, Milam 13 Soldier Activity Center BOSS Headquarters Cliffhanger Cafe ITR Leisure Travel Library Outdoor Recreation Unit Funds 14 Soto Physical Fitness Center Wi-Fi in snack bar area only 15 Youth Activity Center, Milam 16 USO/FirstLight Federal Credit Union USO FirstLight Federal Credit Union 17 U.S. Army Sergeants Major Academy AAFES SMA Bookstore

Bldg.

Telephone

20733 11284 11388 11251 11199

(915) 741-5901 (915) 562-8442 (915) 744-8087 (915) 744-8730 (915) 744-1711 (915) 744-9330

(915) 744-8427 (915) 744-2731 (915) 744-7879 (915) 799-3156 (915) 566-5479 (915) 744-5201 (915) 568-2115 568-2116/568-2117 11898 (915) 744-2274 20732 (915) 744-1532 (915) 744-1525 (915) 744-1535 (915) 744-1522 (915) 744-5105 (915) 744-1534 (915) 744-1532 (915) 744-5105 20751 (915) 744-5788

20707 11896 20752 13471 T20700 20709

10960 20727 11291

(915) 744-2278 (915) 744-3480 (800) 351-1670 (915) 744-8009 (915) 562-5645

12

FOUNDERS

WENDOVER

SERGEANT MAJOR BLVD

3

LUKE

7

CHANUTES

17

LUKE

SERGEANT MAJOR BLVD

SHORT

2

SGT E CHURCHILL

BIGGS

MSG R MILLER

SGT C THOMAS

5

SGT MARKLE

BARKSDALE

LUKE

MSG R MILLER

AIRPORT ROAD

BIGGS GATE

DUNCAN

RANDOLPH

SGT MARKLE

SSG SIMS

4

SCOTT

BOLLING

CSM E. SLEWITZE

PETERSON

WRIGHT

BIGGS ARMY AIRFIELD

15

ES

SID

D

OL

IKE

DR

DR DES NSI IRO

N K TA

W HA

CK BLA

N

AD RO

OLD

AN

NO

IL

RA

KT

O

TI

KAS

R PE

AD RO

MINUE DRIVE

GENERAL HARMON GATE

RS

O

RH E

VE

9

AN

E

V DRI

TU

TI

IN

DE

S

AY EW

IN SER

P

SA

UN

G ER

6

AD RO

M

AY LE W

R

BE

SA

A

VD BL

TH

T

N

EA

R

JO

AD

S

L PA

N

EA

G ER

R

O

AJ

M

AY LE W

EAG

EAG

NS

G

10

CO

UL

VD BL

OR

UE MIN

AY W I FV

T

11

16

Y WA

R E-A

S

13

O CT

ZIO

AN

IA NIS

R IE

1

AY W

M RO

LD

8

TU

SO

14

RY

Y WA

S AN

Y WA

A

LF V

GU

CH BA

CH BA NS RM SHE

N

O

AY YW OR T IC

AIL TR NK TA WK HA CK VE BLA DRI UE MIN

STR

D

OR

O IR

R ARM

O IR

LD

DR

D

ES

SI

N

N IRO

Z

LE SPUR 601

WALTER JONES

GLOBAL REACH GATE

EL PASO, TEXAS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT MILITARY AREAS

El Paso International Airport

Y RR

E

RG

PE

O GE

MILITARY GATES

1 BUILDING LOCATIONS

L

BA O

GL

LOCATIONS WITH WI-FI

H AC

RE

family and mwrdirectory

ARMY COMMUNITY SERVICE ARMY COMMUNITY SERVICE

Bldg. 2494 Ricker Road

(915) 568-1132

FAMILY RESILIENCE CENTER

Bldg. 250 Club Road

(915) 569-5500

SOLDIER AND FAMILY ASSISTANCE CENTER

Bldg. 887 Marshall Road

(915) 568-6923

SURVIVOR OUTREACH SERVICES

Bldg. 241 Sheridan Road

(915) 568-5970

SOTO PFC

Bldg. 20751 Constitution Avenue, East Fort Bliss

(915) 744-5788

STOUT PFC

Bldg. 2930 Cassidy Road

(915) 568-3264

MILAM PFC

Bldg. 2499 Cassidy Road

(915) 568-7318

LOGAN HEIGHTS PFC

Bldg. 4797 Ellerthorpe Road, Logan Heights

(915) 568-5198

BIGGS PFC

Bldg. 11251 Biggs Street, East Bliss

(915) 744-8730

IRONWORKS GYM - EAST

Bldg. T20700 Anzio Way, East Fort Bliss

(915) 744-8697

IRONWORKS GYM - WEST

Bldg. 2951 Cramer Street

(915) 568-2892

TENNIS CLUB & FITNESS ZONE

Bldg. 262 Club Road

(915) 569-5449

REPLICA AQUATIC CENTER

Bldg. 5035 Dickman Road

(915) 568-7431

AQUATICS TRAINING CENTER

Bldg. 20733 Constitution Avenue, East Fort Bliss

(915) 741-5901

COMMUNITY POOL

Bldg. 253 Club Road

(915) 568-6925

CENTENNIAL BANQUET AND CONFERENCE CENTER

Bldg. 11199 Sgt. E. Churchill Street, East Fort Bliss

(915) 744-8427

UNDERWOOD GOLF COMPLEX & GOLDEN TEE

Bldg. 3193 Coe Avenue, Logan Heights

(915) 568-1059

DESERT STRIKE LANES

Bldg. 2949 Carter Road

(915) 568-6272

FORT BLISS ROD & GUN CLUB

Bldg. 3730 Roy Johnson Lane, Northeast El Paso

(915) 568-2983

PERSHING PUB

Bldg. 243 Club Road

(915) 568-6272

OLD FORT BLISS REPLICA

Bldg. 5054, Pershing Road & Pleasonton Road

(915) 568-4518

BIGGS PARK

Bldg. 11388 Sergeant Major Boulevard, East Fort Bliss

(915) 744-8087

MICKELSEN LIBRARY

E-Wing, Basement, Bldg. 2 Pershing Circle

(915) 568-6156

RV PARK

Bldg. 4130 Ellerthorpe Road

(915) 568-0106

FRAMING BLISS

Bldg. 820 Marshall Road

(915) 568-5563

AUTOMOTIVE SKILLS CENTER

Bldg. 820 Marshall Road

(915) 568-7280

ITR/UNIT FUNDS - SOLDIER ACTIVITY CENTER

Bldg. 20732 Constitution Avenue, East Fort Bliss

(915) 744-1522

ITR - FREEDOM CROSSING KIOSK

Freedom Crossing, Bldg. 1611 Marshall Road

(915) 569-6446

OUTDOOR REC - SOLDIER ACTIVITY CENTER

Bldg. 20732 Constitution Avenue, East Fort Bliss

(915) 744-1532

SOLDIER ACTIVITY CENTER

Bldg. 20732 Constitution Avenue, East Fort Bliss

(915) 744-1532

GYMS & FITNESS FACILITIES

FOOD, LEISURE & ENTERTAINMENT

CHILD, YOUTH & SCHOOL SERVICES FACILITIES CYSS PARENT CENTRAL

Bldg. 1743 Victory Avenue

(915) 568-4374

CYSS PARENT CENTRAL SATELLITE OFFICE

Bldg. 503B Pershing Road

(915) 568-2146

CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER - EAST BLISS

Bldg. 20707 Kasserine Way, East Fort Bliss

(915) 744-2731

CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER - LOGAN

Bldg. 3500 Ellerthorpe Road, Logan Heights

(915) 568-3989

CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER - MAIN

Bldg. 1730 Pleasonton Road

(915) 568-5689

CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER - MILAM

Bldg. 11896 Haan Road, East Fort Bliss

(915) 744-7879

CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER - REPLICA

Bldg. 5036 Sheridan Road

(915) 569-7199

SCHOOL-AGE CENTER - BLISS

Bldg. 2012 Sheridan Road

(915) 568-2178

SCHOOL-AGE CENTER - LOGAN

Bldg. 3505 Ellerthorpe Road, Logan Heights

(915) 569-5784

SCHOOL-AGE CENTER - MILAM

Bldg. 11898 Haan Road, East Fort Bliss

(915) 744-2274

YOUTHPLEX

Bldg. 195 Chaffee Road

(915) 568-5437

YOUTH ACTIVITY CENTER - MILAM

Bldg. 10960 Haan Road, East Fort Bliss

(915) 744-2278

SKIES Unlimited - Main

Bldg. 3508 Ellerthorpe Road, Logan Heights

(915) 569-7732

SKIES Unlimited - Gymnastic CENTER

Bldg. 131 Doniphan Road

(915) 568-5544

FAMILY CHILD CARE (FCC)

Bldg. 3503 Story Road, Logan Heights

(915) 568-4198

SCHOOL LIAISON OFFICER

Bldg. 503B Pershing Road

(915) 569-5064

MORE FAMILY AND MWR PHONE NUMBERS DFMWR HEADQUARTERS

2nd Floor, Bldg. 11 Pershing Road

(915) 568-3500

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

PRESORTED STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID EL PASO, TX PERMIT #296