Military Family Winter 2022

An advertising supplement to the Colorado Springs Military Newspaper Group and the Colorado Springs Business Journal

THE

MILITARY Family WINTER 2022

Published by

CSMNG COLORADO SPRINGS MILITARY NEWSPAPER GROUP

2

Nov. 18, 2022

An advertising supplement to the Colorado Springs Military Newspaper Group and the Colorado Springs Business Journal

634-5905 CSMNG CSMNG (719) 235 South Nevada Avenue, COLORADO SPRINGS MILITARY NEWSPAPER GROUP

COLORADO SPRINGS MILITARY NEWSPAPER GROUP

Colorado Springs, CO 80903-1246

CSMNG

PUBLISHER AND EXECUTIVE EDITOR Amy Gillentine ................agillentine@sixty35media.org COLORADO SPRINGS MILITARY NEWSPAPER GROUP EDITOR Bryan Grossman .............. bgrossman@sixty35media.org EDITORIAL Scott Prater CSMNG CSMNG CSMNG CSMNGADVERTISING Account Executives Lanny Adams....................... ladams@sixty35media.org Monty Hatch .......................mhatch@sixty35media.org Viktoria Costantino .. vcostantino@sixty35media.org Betty Butron-Smith . bbutron-smith@sixty35media.org Felicia Anzaldua ............fanzaldua@sixty35media.org COLORADO SPRINGS MILITARY NEWSPAPER GROUP

COLORADO SPRINGS MILITARY NEWSPAPER GROUP

Military Family

Colorado mountain towns gearing up for winter ski season

CSMNG COLORADO SPRINGS MILITARY NEWSPAPER GROUP

COLORADO SPRINGS MILITARY NEWSPAPER GROUP

COLORADO SPRINGS MILITARY NEWSPAPER GROUP

Graphic Designers Zk Bradley • Rowdy Tompkins Ronee Smith • Jeanne Mazerall MEMBER SERVICES Digital Media Specialist Sean Cassady ................. scassady@sixty35media.org Marketing & Event Director Jessica McMullen ........jmcmullen@sixty35media.org 6035 MEDIA Chairman of the Board ..................................John Weiss Executive Editor Emeritus ....................... Ralph Routon Circulation Coordinator ........................... Tracie Woods

PETERSON SPACE FORCE BASE | SCHRIEVER SPACE FORCE BASE

By Scott Prater

L

ocal service members can consider themselves fortunate to live within a couple hours’ drive of some of the best outdoor winter recreation the nation has to offer. Th ree Colorado ski resorts have already opened for the season and Outdoor Recreation at Fort Carson has geared up to assist winter recreators with planned activities for the next few months. All service members, their families, military retirees and DOD ID cardholders are eligible to participate.

Gear and equipment are also available for rent from Outdoor Recreation’s Equipment Checkout Center and there’s no shortage of opportunities to get out and enjoy Colorado’s winter splendor, including skiing and snowboarding, ice climbing, snow shoeing and crosscountry skiing.

Families and single Soldiers don’t even need a car to get to the slopes if they take

advantage of Outdoor Rec’s, “Get on the Bus,” trips.

“We offer ski and snowboard trips to Monarch Mountain, Loveland and Breckenridge ski areas this season,” said Erina Patrick, Fort Carson Outdoor Recreation director. “People can package their trip with a lift ticket, equipment rental and transportation. Our goal is to make the trip simple and easy, and all of our trips depart from our building here, so it’s kind of a one-stop shop for a ski trip.”

Skiers and snowboarders can’t beat the rates for these trips, either. If purchased at the resorts, most skiers will pay more than $100 for a daily lift ticket, but at Outdoor Rec, an entire package that includes transportation, equipment rental and lift ticket will set one back for close to $100. Those with their own equipment can get a lift ticket and transportation for a steep discount as well. Skiers who may already have a season pass or their own daily lift ticket can opt to pay just

for transportation and equipment rental and those who just need transportation can get a ride for an even smaller fee.

“Get on the Bus” trips are planned to start up in late December and run through April 8, 2023, but skiers and snowboarders must register by the Friday before each trip. Skiers seeking rental equipment must be fitted by the Thursday prior to the date of the trip.

“We have a bus trip planned for almost every Saturday through the ski season, beginning with our first one Dec. 24.,” said Josh Scott, Outdoor Rec adventure program guide.

Information about available dates can be found at carson.armymwr.com/outdoor-recreation. All “Get on the Bus,” trips occur on Saturdays and rates are subject to change.

“Ideally, we encourage people to sign up by Wednesday prior to their desired trip because trips do fi ll up and it also helps provide time for people to make arrangements,” Patrick said. “If, for

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Military Family

Nov. 18, 2022

An advertising supplement to the Colorado Springs Military Newspaper Group and the Colorado Springs Business Journal

NATIONAL VETERANS & MILITARY FAMILIES APPRECIATION MONTH

Courtesy photo

Soldiers with the Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers program at Fort Carson relax at Wolf Creek during a trip last February.

in-stance, they need to get their rental equipment, it’s easier to obtain it earlier than if they waited until 5 p.m. on the Friday prior to the trip. In that case, it might be tough because there will be a lot of other people renting as well. We also send out an itinerary on Thursdays that relays specific details about the trip.”

T he Outdoor Rec Equ ipment Checkout Center has equipment available for skiing and snowboarding in all size ranges ages 4 and up, that includes boots and bindings.

Outdoor Rec staff members drive the bus, so they accompany each trip and can provide directions and answer questions at the ski mountain.

“We’re also offering two overnight ski trips that will include one night of lodging and two days of skiing,” Scott said.

“Those who would like a hot springs experience as well can also sign up for our Wolf Creek Winter Getaway in March, which includes two days of skiing and access to the Pagosa Springs hot springs venue.”

Families and Soldiers who would prefer activities other than downhill skiing and snowboarding have plenty of options to choose from as well. Outdoor Rec offers sledding, snow-shoeing, fattire mountain biking and ice climbing trips to in-state destinations. Contact For t Carson Outdoor Recre-ation Adventure Programs at 526-5198 for rates and conditions.

Scott noted that three ice climbing adventures will occur at Helen Hunt Falls here in Colorado Springs, while a fourth will take climbers to Ouray for a threeday adventure Feb. 17-19.

“Venue operators (Ouray Ice Park) actually farm ice inside a box canyon there,” Scott said. “It’s a world-renowned ice climbing park. So, it should be a unique adventure for anyone who hasn’t

experienced it.”

Staff prefer that ice climbing participants complete their Climbing Wall Orientation class prior to going on climbing trips, but it’s not required.

People can be a novice rock climber or a novice ice climber and still have a great time.

The Climbing Wall Orientation class covers knot tying, belay techniques and climbing communication and takes place most Thursdays. Staff also offer crack-climbing and lead-climbing classes at the facility.

See the website listed above for the most up-to-date information on all trips and be advised that rates are subject to change.

Skiers and riders can also get their equipment tuned at Outdoor Rec or sign up for the facility’s Ski and Snowboard Tuning Clinic, where professional technicians teach the basics of at-home ski and snowboard repair and maintenance.

While skiing and snowboarding can set one back a significant amount, many of the state’s ski resorts offer season and daily passes to military members at steep discounts. The military epic (season) pass is currently offered for $159 and includes skiing and snowboarding at Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Crested Butte and Park City, Utah resorts. Dependents of military members are offered a similar pass at the same rate. Visit www.epicpass. com/Passes/Military-Epic-Pass-Active. aspx for more information. Rates will rise Nov. 20. Military veterans can also find a substantial deal with the Liberty (season) Pass which includes skiing at Keystone Resort and half price tick-ets at Breckenridge for $274. Rates for the Liberty pass will also rise Nov. 20. Visit www.epicpass.com/passes/liberty-pass. aspx for more information.

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Nov. 18, 2022

An advertising supplement to the Colorado Springs Military Newspaper Group and the Colorado Springs Business Journal

Military Family

COURSES, EVENTS & SERVICES

WWW.CARSON.ARMY.MIL/ACS • (719) 526-4590

ACS programs offer a wide variety of classes, events and services. Each program is represented online. Find class times and further details of ACS classes and events at www.carson.armymwr.com/acs. To speak with a program specialist call (719) 526-4590.

ARMY FAMILY TEAM BUILDING (AFTB)

(719) 526-4590 FAMILY ADVOCACY PROGRAM

5 LOVE LANGUAGES This class will discuss your “Love Language” Level G focuses on personal growth through communication, exploring and how to use it to strengthen your personality traits, creative problem solving and communication style. many aspects of self improvement.

COOPERATIVE PARENTING & DIVORCE Understand your new roles in this important ACS INSTRUCTOR TRAINING COURSE relationship and how to best support LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT (LEVEL L) your kids during this transition. Meets the Students will learn the many skills and Level L will enhance an individual’s professional growth and techniques necessary to be a successful State of Colorado requirement for divorcing leadership skills. This training is for those facilitator. As well as how to prepare for and couples. who are or wish to be leaders, whether it is in present effective briefings, developing platform SAVING YOUR MARRIAGE BEFORE IT STARTS skills, teaching adult learners, and more. the unit or the community.

Ideally suited for Single individuals ARMY VOLUNTEER CORPS (AVC) (719) 526-1082 contemplating marriage as well as Couples that have been married up to five+ years. Teaches VOLUNTEER OF THE QUARTER ANNUAL AVC EVENTS participants how to safely address seven times a year AVC questions to ask about your relationship that Volunteer Recognition Ceremony, Four National Volunteer Week, National Night Out, organizes award ceremonies recognizing commonly cause stress and conflict in marriages.

Fort Carson Volunteers. and Make A Difference Day. RESILIENCE CLASSES NEW VOLUNTEER, Volunteer Management Information System (VMIS), & OPOC TRAINING Learn self-awareness, self-regulation, optimism, Provides information on registration of new volunteers, duties of the mental agility, strength of character, and OPOC (Organizational Point of Contact) and how to use the VMIS connection. Each class covers a different subject matter. Attendance of all classes encouraged.

(Volunteer Management Information System) to enter hours and earn awards.

MILITARY KNOWLEDGE (LEVEL K)

Level K provides the basic information and skills needed by all military Family members. These include military terms, acronyms, customs and expectations, impact of the mission on family life, and much more.

PERSONAL GROWTH (LEVEL G)

EXCEPTIONAL FAMILY MEMBER PROGRAM (EFMP) EFMP 101 Join us for EFMP 101, where program myths are busted and accurate information is explained in detail. We’ll help you understand the ins and outs of the program, how it affects you, and the services that are offered.

EFMP RESPITE CARE EFMP Respite Care is a temporary rest period for caregivers, providing them the opportunity to rest and rejuvenate with peace of mind, knowing their loved ones will be well cared for. Eligibility criteria apply.

EFMP SCHOOL SUPPORT If you have a child on an IEP or a 504 Plan, this service is for you! Clearly understanding the basics of the special education process, understanding your rights and responsibilities and those of the education system, and collaborating with educational professionals will help you feel like a true member of your child's IEP team. School support services are tailored to meet your child's individual needs.

(719) 526-0400

COMPASSIONATE ACTIONS ASSISTANCE Meet with an EFMP Systems Navigator to ensure individual circumstances meet criteria for requesting a compassionate reassignment, deletion, deferment or permissive attachment based on the individual Soldier's circumstances.

EFMP & ME This is a new digital tool to guide military families with special needs to the specific information and resources they need. Using the tool, you can learn about support services, preparing for a move or deployment, responding to changes in education or medical needs, and adjusting to new life situations. EFMP & Me gives families personalized assistance based on their specific circumstances.

SYSTEMS NAVIGATION SERVICES

EMPLOYMENT READINESS PROGRAM (ERP)

FEDERAL RESUME 101

Did you know that there are some differences between the private sector resume and federal resume? This class will cover the required elements of the federal resume and teach you how to write and tailor your resume to federal job announcements.

(719) 526-0461 PARENTING WORKSHOP Learn to relate with your children by taking hold of your own emotional responses in this 4 week class. Helps parents to focus on their own behaviors.

RELATIONSHIP PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE FOR COUPLES & SINGLES These classes help you achieve your goals by building on your current strengths and learning new skills. Some classes include: Three Keys to Success, Danger Signs / Time Out, Anger & Stress, Fun & Friendship, and Problem Solving.

SOLE PARENTING GROUP An opportunity for Soldiers to meet fellow single parents, attain resources and ask questions in a supportive environment.

TEN GREAT DATES

One to Ten Seminar class is designed to help Couples focus on the positive experiences in their relationship and how to maintain healthy communication about their emotions, needs and intimacy and how to enhance those areas of their relationship.

(719) 526-0452 MILITARY SPOUSE PREFERENCE & FEDERAL EMPLOYMENT

Are you a Military Spouse interested in federal employment? You may be eligible for Military Spouse Preference (MSP) when applying for Department of Defense (DoD) positions. Learn the requirements and documentation needed for MSP NAVIGATING USAJOBS Searching and applying for federal jobs is different and other federal Military Spouse hiring than the civilian job search process. Learn about the authorities. federal hiring process, how to navigate usajobs.gov PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND CAREER and tips and techniques on how to make the most of EXPLORATION FOR TEENS Join us for workshops guaranteed to launch your teen your job search. into a productive future whether they are RESUME ESSENTIALS contemplating college trade school, a gap year, This course will teach you how to develop a military service or if they are uncertain about what competitive private sector resume. Learn about the lies ahead. Workshops will cover: Resume Writing & different resume formats, how to tailor your resume to Completing Applications, Volunteering, Interview fit a specific job posting, and examine current resume Preparation, Scholarships, FAFSA and Q&A with colleges. trends.

VICTIM ADVOCACY PROGRAM

(719) 526-0461

EFMP Systems Navigation is a Family support component of the EFMP that connects Families who have special needs with the systems of care they need, both on and off the installation. A standardized planning tool is used to help you identify

Non-clinical advocacy services and support to Soldiers and Family Members who are experiencing domestic violence.

ANNUAL TROOP TRAINING FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE PREVENTION Class includes: definition of domestic violence, types of domestic violence, reporting procedures and prevention. For upcoming dates or to schedule, call (719) 524-1899/0912.

WOMEN’S DOMESTIC VIOLENCE EMPOWERMENT SUPPORT GROUP your family’s needs and goals, which will be organized and prioritized in a way that is easy Women’s support group for survivors of domestic violence. A group to support, encourage and empower women affected by domestic violence. to understand.

SOLDIER & FAMILY ASSISTANCE CENTER (SFAC) (719) 526-5807 LEADERSHIP RESPONSE TO DOMESTIC VIOLENCE This class is designed to help command teams understand their role in domestic TRANSITION AND MEDICAL RETIREMENT BRIEF MEDICAL SEPARATION ORIENTATION BRIEF This briefing is for SRU and IDES Soldiers Get orientated to the SFAC Program. Includes a violence response through regulatory requirements of leadership and to provide them with and information on the dynamics of domestic abuse. who have received their Army Disability facility tour and information on what services resources Call 719-524-1899 for more information or to schedule a class.

Rating and are transitioning out of the are provided through the SFAC. Open to all SRU, Call or Text (719) 243-7907 24/7 VICTIM HOTLINE military. The brief covers all of the military benefits and services transitioning Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Soldiers and their Family Members.

Army Community Service supports Commander’s readiness Soldiers can utilize. goals with our portable class schedule.

ONE-ON-ONE SUPPORT Schedule your one-on-one support with the SFAC to support your transitions needs: financial counseling, education benefits, leave calculations, resume assistance, and recreation opportunities.

Class

For Units & SFRGs. On your time at your place. To schedule go to www.carson.army.mil/acs and search 'Portable Class Delivery' .

Military Family

Nov. 18, 2022

An advertising supplement to the Colorado Springs Military Newspaper Group and the Colorado Springs Business Journal

COURSES, EVENTS & SERVICES

WWW.CARSON.ARMY.MIL/ACS • (719) 526-4590

ACS programs offer a wide variety of classes, events and services. Each program is represented online. Find class times and further details of ACS classes and events at www.carson.armymwr.com/acs. To speak with a program specialist call (719) 526-4590.

ARMY FAMILY TEAM BUILDING (AFTB)

(719) 526-4590 FAMILY ADVOCACY PROGRAM

5 LOVE LANGUAGES This class will discuss your “Love Language” Level G focuses on personal growth through communication, exploring and how to use it to strengthen your personality traits, creative problem solving and communication style. many aspects of self improvement.

COOPERATIVE PARENTING & DIVORCE Understand your new roles in this important ACS INSTRUCTOR TRAINING COURSE relationship and how to best support LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT (LEVEL L) your kids during this transition. Meets the Students will learn the many skills and Level L will enhance an individual’s professional growth and techniques necessary to be a successful State of Colorado requirement for divorcing leadership skills. This training is for those facilitator. As well as how to prepare for and couples. who are or wish to be leaders, whether it is in present effective briefings, developing platform SAVING YOUR MARRIAGE BEFORE IT STARTS skills, teaching adult learners, and more. the unit or the community.

Ideally suited for Single individuals ARMY VOLUNTEER CORPS (AVC) (719) 526-1082 contemplating marriage as well as Couples that have been married up to five+ years. Teaches VOLUNTEER OF THE QUARTER ANNUAL AVC EVENTS participants how to safely address seven times a year AVC questions to ask about your relationship that Volunteer Recognition Ceremony, Four National Volunteer Week, National Night Out, organizes award ceremonies recognizing commonly cause stress and conflict in marriages.

Fort Carson Volunteers. and Make A Difference Day. RESILIENCE CLASSES NEW VOLUNTEER, Volunteer Management Information System (VMIS), & OPOC TRAINING Learn self-awareness, self-regulation, optimism, Provides information on registration of new volunteers, duties of the mental agility, strength of character, and OPOC (Organizational Point of Contact) and how to use the VMIS connection. Each class covers a different subject matter. Attendance of all classes encouraged.

(Volunteer Management Information System) to enter hours and earn awards.

MILITARY KNOWLEDGE (LEVEL K)

Level K provides the basic information and skills needed by all military Family members. These include military terms, acronyms, customs and expectations, impact of the mission on family life, and much more.

PERSONAL GROWTH (LEVEL G)

EXCEPTIONAL FAMILY MEMBER PROGRAM (EFMP) EFMP 101 Join us for EFMP 101, where program myths are busted and accurate information is explained in detail. We’ll help you understand the ins and outs of the program, how it affects you, and the services that are offered.

EFMP RESPITE CARE EFMP Respite Care is a temporary rest period for caregivers, providing them the opportunity to rest and rejuvenate with peace of mind, knowing their loved ones will be well cared for. Eligibility criteria apply.

EFMP SCHOOL SUPPORT If you have a child on an IEP or a 504 Plan, this service is for you! Clearly understanding the basics of the special education process, understanding your rights and responsibilities and those of the education system, and collaborating with educational professionals will help you feel like a true member of your child's IEP team. School support services are tailored to meet your child's individual needs.

(719) 526-0400

COMPASSIONATE ACTIONS ASSISTANCE Meet with an EFMP Systems Navigator to ensure individual circumstances meet criteria for requesting a compassionate reassignment, deletion, deferment or permissive attachment based on the individual Soldier's circumstances.

EFMP & ME This is a new digital tool to guide military families with special needs to the specific information and resources they need. Using the tool, you can learn about support services, preparing for a move or deployment, responding to changes in education or medical needs, and adjusting to new life situations. EFMP & Me gives families personalized assistance based on their specific circumstances.

SYSTEMS NAVIGATION SERVICES

EMPLOYMENT READINESS PROGRAM (ERP)

FEDERAL RESUME 101

Did you know that there are some differences between the private sector resume and federal resume? This class will cover the required elements of the federal resume and teach you how to write and tailor your resume to federal job announcements.

(719) 526-0461 PARENTING WORKSHOP Learn to relate with your children by taking hold of your own emotional responses in this 4 week class. Helps parents to focus on their own behaviors.

RELATIONSHIP PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE FOR COUPLES & SINGLES These classes help you achieve your goals by building on your current strengths and learning new skills. Some classes include: Three Keys to Success, Danger Signs / Time Out, Anger & Stress, Fun & Friendship, and Problem Solving.

SOLE PARENTING GROUP An opportunity for Soldiers to meet fellow single parents, attain resources and ask questions in a supportive environment.

TEN GREAT DATES

One to Ten Seminar class is designed to help Couples focus on the positive experiences in their relationship and how to maintain healthy communication about their emotions, needs and intimacy and how to enhance those areas of their relationship.

(719) 526-0452 MILITARY SPOUSE PREFERENCE & FEDERAL EMPLOYMENT

Are you a Military Spouse interested in federal employment? You may be eligible for Military Spouse Preference (MSP) when applying for Department of Defense (DoD) positions. Learn the requirements and documentation needed for MSP NAVIGATING USAJOBS Searching and applying for federal jobs is different and other federal Military Spouse hiring than the civilian job search process. Learn about the authorities. federal hiring process, how to navigate usajobs.gov PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND CAREER and tips and techniques on how to make the most of EXPLORATION FOR TEENS Join us for workshops guaranteed to launch your teen your job search. into a productive future whether they are RESUME ESSENTIALS contemplating college trade school, a gap year, This course will teach you how to develop a military service or if they are uncertain about what competitive private sector resume. Learn about the lies ahead. Workshops will cover: Resume Writing & different resume formats, how to tailor your resume to Completing Applications, Volunteering, Interview fit a specific job posting, and examine current resume Preparation, Scholarships, FAFSA and Q&A with colleges. trends.

VICTIM ADVOCACY PROGRAM

(719) 526-0461

EFMP Systems Navigation is a Family support component of the EFMP that connects Families who have special needs with the systems of care they need, both on and off the installation. A standardized planning tool is used to help you identify

Non-clinical advocacy services and support to Soldiers and Family Members who are experiencing domestic violence.

ANNUAL TROOP TRAINING FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE PREVENTION Class includes: definition of domestic violence, types of domestic violence, reporting procedures and prevention. For upcoming dates or to schedule, call (719) 524-1899/0912.

WOMEN’S DOMESTIC VIOLENCE EMPOWERMENT SUPPORT GROUP your family’s needs and goals, which will be organized and prioritized in a way that is easy Women’s support group for survivors of domestic violence. A group to support, encourage and empower women affected by domestic violence. to understand.

SOLDIER & FAMILY ASSISTANCE CENTER (SFAC) (719) 526-5807 LEADERSHIP RESPONSE TO DOMESTIC VIOLENCE This class is designed to help command teams understand their role in domestic TRANSITION AND MEDICAL RETIREMENT BRIEF MEDICAL SEPARATION ORIENTATION BRIEF This briefing is for SRU and IDES Soldiers Get orientated to the SFAC Program. Includes a violence response through regulatory requirements of leadership and to provide them with and information on the dynamics of domestic abuse. who have received their Army Disability facility tour and information on what services resources Call 719-524-1899 for more information or to schedule a class.

Rating and are transitioning out of the are provided through the SFAC. Open to all SRU, Call or Text (719) 243-7907 24/7 VICTIM HOTLINE military. The brief covers all of the military benefits and services transitioning Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Soldiers and their Family Members.

Army Community Service supports Commander’s readiness Soldiers can utilize. goals with our portable class schedule.

ONE-ON-ONE SUPPORT Schedule your one-on-one support with the SFAC to support your transitions needs: financial counseling, education benefits, leave calculations, resume assistance, and recreation opportunities.

Class

For Units & SFRGs. On your time at your place. To schedule go to www.carson.army.mil/acs and search 'Portable Class Delivery' .

5

6

Nov. 18, 2022

An advertising supplement to the Colorado Springs Military Newspaper Group and the Colorado Springs Business Journal

Military Family

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Military Family

Nov. 18, 2022

An advertising supplement to the Colorado Springs Military Newspaper Group and the Colorado Springs Business Journal

November 2022 - March 2023

Schedule of Events

Schriever Airman & Family Readiness Center

Pre-Deployment Briefing Nov. 22, 29 / Dec. 6, 13, 20, 27 / Jan. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Feb. 7, 14, 21, 28 / March 7, 14, 21, 28, noon - 1 p.m.

Provides information, education and assistance to military members and their families, focusing on deployment and crisis response. These efforts aim at preparing military members and their families for all stages of deployment. This requirements needs to be completed 30-60 days prior to departure. Families are encouraged to attend.

Post-Deployment Briefing Nov. 22, 29 / Dec. 6, 13, 20, 27 / Jan. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Feb. 7, 14, 21, 28 / March 7, 14, 21, 28, 1 - 2 p.m.

Provides information and resources to returnees and their families. Must be completed within seven days of return and prior to rest and recuperation (post-deployment downtime and leave).

FDS-Officer Dec. 9, 8 - 11 p.m.

Mandatory Financial Brief for Officers arriving at First Duty Station. Budgeting, goal setting, car buying, credit, debt and local area issues are discussed.

Transition Initial Counseling Pre-Separation Counseling

Newcomers Orientation / Right Start

Nov. 29 / Dec. 6, 20 / Jan. 3, 17, 31 / Feb. 14, 28 March 14, 28, 9 - 10:30 a.m.

Congressionally mandated for separating and retiring service members. Member needs to complete initial counseling and pre-separation prior to being registered for TAP as this is a prerequisite.

Smooth Move/Plan My Move Dec. 5 / Jan. 9 / Feb. 13 / March 6, 1 - 3 p.m.

Offered to all military members and spouses. Find out as much as possible about your new location. Briefing with representatives from the finance office, the travel management office, TRICARE and other resourceful agencies in preparation for your upcoming relocation PCS.

Boots to Business

Nov. 17 / Dec. 15 / Jan. 19 / Feb. 16 / March 16 8 - 4 p.m., Bldg. 300/Auditorium This is a mandatory briefing for newly arrived personnel (Active Duty/Civilians/Dependents) on available services and programs on base and in the local community.

TAP Workshop Dec. 12 - 16 / Jan. 23 - 27 / Feb. 6 - 10 / March 20 - 24 8 - 4 p.m.

This five-day program is designed to prepare military members and families for their transition from military to civilian life. The workshop includes, VA Benefits and Services, DOD day, DOL day, and two-day Employment Track.

EFMP 101 Orientation

March 30-31, 8 - 4 p.m.

An entrepreneurial education and training program offered by SBA as part of the Department of Defense’s Transition Assistance Program (TAP). B2B provides participants with an overview of business ownership and is open to transitioning service members (including National Guard and Reserve) and their spouses. TAP 2 day Track.

Feb. 15, 9 - 11 a.m.

Mandated Orientation for EFMP families, leadership and base personnel to educate individuals on EFMP program, receive education from all three components (Family Support, Medical and Assignments) and receive answers to questions regarding local services, upcoming PCS’s and more.

The A&FRC strives to meet the needs of Airman and their families through a wide variety of avenues, to include unit briefings, classes, workshops, seminars and individual meetings.

Contact Schriever A&FRC at 719-567-3920 to sign up for programs or if you have questions or concerns.

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Nov. 18, 2022

An advertising supplement to the Colorado Springs Military Newspaper Group and the Colorado Springs Business Journal

Military Family

Sergeant’s health knowledge helps her cope with adversity

Courtesy Renee Arias

Sgt. 1st Class Renee Arias

By Scott Prater

S

gt. 1st Class Renee Arias has had a tough year.

First, her mom suffered a stroke and was diagnosed with a second bout of cancer, then her marriage collapsed and finally, her finances were wrecked following a disputed home sale.

She’s faced some of life’s most difficult problems in the span of just a few months, yet she says a vital coping tactic has helped her alleviate much of the stress that many servicemembers endure throughout the span of their careers.

That tactic — pursuing a personal goal — has helped her cope through a hellacious storm. And, it could perhaps be one solution for many Soldiers who find themselves in dire circumstances.

Recently, Army leaders began focus-

ing on reducing suicide rates among their ranks. Servicemembers aren’t robots. They experience the same anxiety, loneliness and depression as everyone else, only theirs is often compounded by a variety of factors. Soldiers’ worklife balance, for instance, often becomes skewed thanks to year-long overseas deployments, temporary-duty assignments at far away locations and training events that keep them in austere environments for weeks at a time.

Arias, a 13-year Army veteran and an instructor at Fort Carson’s Basic Leader Course Academy (BLC), has more than average experience with these types of military-life events. It’s one reason she was selected to mentor junior enlisted Soldiers at BLC. Nevertheless, she says the past year has been particularly difficult, given her circumstances, and there was only one way she managed to maneuver through it – envisioning herself competing on stage at a top-level body building event.

“I’ve never competed before,” she said.

“It has been a goal of mine for years, but something had always managed to curtail my efforts.”

Her first effort occurred in 2020, when she hired a coach, then trained and prepared for pretty much an entire year.

A few weeks before the event, however, the COVID-19 pandemic placed a hold on most group gatherings and organizers were forced to cancel the event. Her second attempt occurred earlier this year, when she trained for an event in Indiana. Yet again though, stressful situations and unforeseen circumstances foiled her plans.

Undeterred, Arias dove back into training this past July, when she began preparing for an Oct. 1 event in Denver.

This time, however, she decided to also visit the Army Wellness Center (AWC) during her ramp up to the competition.

“I remembered how much the staff at AWC helped me at my last duty station and so I walked into the Fort Carson center one day this past summer,” she said. “And, that decision proved pivotal for my success at the Denver body building event because, really, you can only learn so much from looks and feel. Their (AWC’s) body-fat composition, oxygenuptake and metabolism-rate tests give a person very specific numbers that don’t lie. So, that data provided a much better judge of my training and nutritional activities leading up to the competition.

Specifically, it provided an indicator that I needed to slow down on cardio activity.

I made had to make adjustments and I changed my training sessions.”

Ultimately, at the end of the day Oct. 1, Arias earned first place in the Wellness category for her height class at the NPC Colorado Muscle Classic, a high-level regional body building event.

Earning the win also helped her qualify for higher-level national events, paving the way for a future in the sport. The outcome was a surprise to her, her coach, family and friends, mostly because this was the first time she had ever competed in a body building event.

“Being on stage was exciting and earning the win was great,” she said.

“But really, it wasn’t about winning. It was about the journey I made, about finally getting to that stage. Surprisingly, I didn’t feel nervous. I just had this sense of accomplishment that I made it through everything that my life was throwing at me. Through all these years I kept telling myself that I was going to do this. And, I finally did it.”

More importantly, she noted, her success is indicative of the type of assistance a wellness center like AWC can provide for everyday servicemembers.

“The biggest thing is knowing that education about nutrition and fitness

can actually help people alleviate depression and anxiety,” she said. “I know because I’ve experienced it. For me, going to the gym is my stress reliever. It releases endorphins and helps me be more productive.”

Glen Wi l lia ms, director at For t Carson’s AWC, explained that the wellness center, like many at military wellness centers at installations around the country, not only provides fitness testing, but also teaches classes on things like raising one’s metabolism, stress reduction, proper nutrition and healthy sleep habits.

“We see many soldiers who will eat fast food for breakfast and lunch and then wash that down with a soda or energy drinks,” he said. “They don’t drink any water. They’ll smoke a cigarette and then snack on junk food for the rest of the day. If they do have dinner, it will be pizza or something similar.”

When faced with clients like these, wellness center staff will attempt to change a servicemember’s mindset and build awareness about the damage such a lifestyle can do to a person’s mental and physical well-being.

“Once they get that awareness, then that’s half the battle,” Williams said.

“And, it aligns with the Army’s approach of holistic soldier fitness, which includes emotional, spiritual and physical health.

“We want to teach people how to manage stress and care for themselves.”

For Arias, her immediate plans include competing at a national body building event later t his year and continuing to mentor young Soldiers through the BLC. “If we can start educating them now, when they’re young, teaching them how to train and eat, then maybe they won’t have severe health problems in their 50s and 60s,” she said. “They’ll have better longevity and be happier people.”

An advertising supplement to the Colorado Springs Military Newspaper Group and the Colorado Springs Business Journal

Nov. 18, 2022

9 *The person pictured is not an actual service member.

Military Family

10

Nov. 18, 2022

An advertising supplement to the Colorado Springs Military Newspaper Group and the Colorado Springs Business Journal

Military Family

Short hikes in the Pikes Peak region H

By Bob Falcone

ikers, by their very nature, have a thing about numbers: How many miles they hiked, how tall that mountain was they climbed, how many fourteeners they’ve bagged, etc. And for many, including me, the longer, higher, further we go, the better. Even if the only person we’re up against is ourselves, we can be a competitive bunch.

So, short hikes, unless they are very difficult — I’m looking at you, Manitou Incline — tend to be ignored. Why do a 1- or 2-mile hike, when I could do a 7- or 8-mile hike instead? Well, as it turns out, some short hikes, which for the purpose of this article are under 2 miles round trip, often have great views, or might be very tough, or very easy. I’ve put together a short list (see what I did there?) of short hikes, some of which were suggested by readers and listeners to my podcast, and they're great for colder winter months: Signal Butte: This 1-mile round trip hike has some really nice views of the east side of the Tarryall range and Pikes Peak.

Overlook Trail #641: Located at the end of 11 Mile Canyon in the Pike National Forest (not 11 Mile State Park), this is another 1-mile round-trip hike

with great views. You can find more information on COTREX, but note that the trail alignment, or even trailhead location shown there is not accurate, but it’s close enough that you’ll find it. Entry fees apply.

Mt. Cutler: A long-established trail in North Cheyenne Cañon Park, it’s a hugely popular hike due to its short length (2 miles round trip) and views of the surrounding mountains, Seven Falls and of Colorado Springs. Getting to it requires some effort due to roadwork in the park, but once the project is fi nished later this spring, you’ll be able to again pull right up to the trailhead. Click here for more information.

Mt. Esther Trail #754: Starting at the Crowe Gulch Trailhead on the Pikes Peak Highway — just a short distance from the entry gates — is a summertime favorite of mine because of its wildf lowers and a fall favorite because of the aspens. Although its total length is longer than the criteria for this article, reader Linda Watkins suggested the section from the trailhead to where it intersects with the Ring the Peak Trail. At about 1.5 miles round trip, this is an easy hike through tall grasses in an open meadow.

Entry fees apply.

Be Good. Do Good Things. Leave No Trace.

File Photo

“Why do a 1or 2-mile hike, when I could do a 7- or 8-mile hike instead?”

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Military Family

Nov. 18, 2022

An advertising supplement to the Colorado Springs Military Newspaper Group and the Colorado Springs Business Journal

11

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Nov. 18, 2022

An advertising supplement to the Colorado Springs Military Newspaper Group and the Colorado Springs Business Journal

Military Family