JOINT BASE LEWIS-McCHORD MORALE, WELFARE & RECREATION GUIDE
JULY 2021
Enter JBLM’s 10-mile/5K/1K
2021 Freedom Run
honoring all those who have served See page 28 Find your ticket to fun & adventure at Leisure Travel Services Pages 6–8 Wartime history of Shoreline Park & Russell Landing is colorful Pages 12–15 Join ‘Women Rock’ outdoor learning program Pages 22–23
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Director, Family & MWR Venicia Morse Marketing director Kimberly Perrenot Editor/Writer Patti Jeffrey Layout/Design Toby Bartley, Lizzie Hoscheit, Patti Jeffrey Contributors Monica Demitras, Jenelee Horton, Spc. Leslye Mena Mendoza, RyAnn Peverley, Genia Stewart Contributing photographers Ursula Buford, Emiliano Hernandez, JBLM Public Affairs, JBLM SFA staff, Patti Jeffrey, Spc. Leslye Mena Mendoza
For commercial sponsorship or advertising inquiries, off-base businesses, call 253-966-2256. The JBLM “FOCUS” Newcomers Guide is an unofficial information source. Activities described herein, which are open to authorized patrons and, where applicable, guests, are subject to change; contact the activity for confirmation. Opinions are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent Family & MWR, Joint Base Lewis-McChord or any U.S. government entity. The use of a commercial sponsor logo or mention of a commercial sponsor or other organization does not constitute U.S. government endorsement. NOTE: Events mentioned in this issue may be canceled or revised after publication date. For current updates, visit https://jblm.armymwr.com/promos/covid.
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FOCUS IN THIS ISSUE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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ATTEND OUTDOOR REC CLASSES & EVENTS
ENJOY FUN & FOOD WITH US
HEADS UP FOR JBLM REUNITED CELEBRATION
Joint Base Lewis-McChord FOCUS July 2021
FEATURES
6 Your ticket to fun & adventure is at LTS You need a vacation, you want to see the sites, but you also want the lowest possible prices for the most fun. Your best bet? Plan your next getaway — for a day or a week — with Leisure Travel Services.
12 History is right under your feet Did you know that American Lake beaches at Lewis North used to be party heaven for Service members? Read about the colorful wartime history of Shoreline Park and Russell Landing.
22 Join ‘Women Rock’ outdoor learning program Three new outdoor skills courses are being taught by women for women this summer — rock climbing, backpacking and stand-up paddleboarding. Join in and learn a new outdoor skill with other beginners!
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STAY FIT & HAVE FUN WITH FITNESS CHALLENGES
ORDER CUSTOMIZED T-SHIRTS FOR YOUR NEXT GATHERING
GET INVOLVED WITH YOUTH PROGRAMS
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Joint Base Lewis-McChord FOCUS July 2021
What does MWR do for you? Meet MWR staff members who serve you in meaningful ways
Meet Jenelee Horton, who was just 16 years old when she began her career in Aquatics at JBLM! She started as a lifeguard while she was taking accelerated classes during high school. Training to become a lifeguard was a perfect fit since she played water polo and had already been an avid swimmer. Even though Jenelee later graduated with a degree in law and justice from Central Washington University’s local campus, she decided to stay on with JBLM Aquatics. What began as a lifeguard position led her to become a water safety instructor, then lead lifeguard and eventually program manager in Aquatics. Jenelee says that she still uses elements of her degree — she’s called to play an important role in protecting the safety and security of those under her guidance. Being able to apply all the rules and regulations governing employees’ and patrons’ safety also comes in handy, she says. When asked what her favorite part of the job is, Jenelee replies, “Teaching people water safety and how to swim. It’s a life skill and saves people’s lives. It also opens up more doors recreationally. For example, when a Service member and family members learn to swim here, they can try surfing if the Service member PCS’s to Hawaii.” She does admit that recreationally, this season has been exceptionally challenging due
to COVID. “We wish we could extend our pool hours, but we’re still in a disruptive period with current staff finishing up a difficult school year and local lifeguard trainings just now starting to be offered. Nationally, there’s a shortage of lifeguards and swim instructors, which plays a role in our attempts to meet the high demand for swim lessons here at JBLM.” According to Jenelee, the challenge of hiring more staff will decrease when JBLM recruiters are able to once again have more hiring fairs at high schools and colleges. Jenelee’s outlook has changed in the past year while going through COVID restrictions and closures. “My team deserves kudos for being so resilient this past year. They were so willing to work at other MWR operations and do their best to adapt to sudden and new expectations. COVID forced our hand and we had to “go with the flow” at a moment’s notice! “Personally, I learned to use my time more wisely. I took advantage of the time for professional development and I looked at the positives. The positives were reminders to look after my spiritual, emotional and personal wellness in addition to focusing on physical health during COVID. What’s the one thing Jenelee learned that can benefit others? “It’s to use your time to the fullest,” she says. “And to look at the positives that can help you stay resilient.”
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Joint Base Lewis-McChord FOCUS July 2021
FEATURE
Leisure Travel Services
Your ticket to fun & adventure Y
ou need a vacation, you want to see the sites, but you also want the lowest possible prices for the most fun. Your best bet? Plan your next getaway — for a day or a week — with Leisure Travel Services. Located at Northwest Adventure Center at Lewis North and Adventures Unlimited at McChord Field, LTS is less than a halfhour drive from any major city in the South Sound for DOD ID card holders. “We’ll save you more money than online or gate prices since we can offer many more discounts to our military and DOD customers,” says Alyssa Matthews, LTS manager. “Not only do we serve local customers, but we have repeat customers from surrounding states and even overseas — they know they can count on us to get them the very best discounts.”
Find what you’re looking for online or on-site To find the latest special offers from major entertainment specialists, such as Disney World, visit JBLMmwr.com under Recreation. If what you’re looking for isn’t listed, call LTS at 253-967-3085. Chances are they can direct you to discounts on another website. You can drop in and buy your tickets, purchase them over the phone and pick up later, or have the tickets sent to you (for an additional shipping fee). Continued on next page.
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Here are some tips from the staff for getting the best for less: • If you’re a military family planning a Disney vacation, buy special 2021–2022 Disney Military Salutes tickets. Also reserve your specially priced Disney Resort room (for active duty and retired U.S. military personnel). • Buy your 2021 Military Freedom Pass if you’re planning on visiting Universal Orlando, with options for upgrades. • Would you like to explore Mount Rainier or Olympic National Park? If you’re an active duty military family, active volunteer or military veteran, take advantage of “America the Beautiful” free yearly passes to national parks and federal recreation sites wherever you travel. Seniors and those with disabilities also can get discounts on passes. Check out store.usgs.gov/pass. • Ask the staff how to save money on hotels, flights, car rentals, cruises and packages.
They’ll point you toward MWR’s moneysaving website, AmericanForcesTravel.com. While there are many for-profit online leisure travel offerings marketing to the military today, American Forces Travel is the only official joint services MWR leisure travel website and will inject critical revenue into MWR programs by providing commissions from every booking made. • Want to stay at the ocean? Book a rental at Pacific Beach, a Navy-owned resort that has fantastic discounts for DOD and military personnel. Visit navylifepnw.com and look under Pacific Beach. Inquires can be directed to pacbeach@navylifepnw.com. • Be sure to ask what other discount tickets are becoming available as popular tourist spots open back up. Call LTS at 253-967-3085 for more information. Find their current hours of operation at JBLModr.com.
Be sure to include Olympic National Park as part of your trip planning! You can explore miles of pristine shorelines, drive to Hurricane Ridge for a view of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Victoria, B.C., and hike through the famous rainforest with your free annual pass.
10 Joint Base Lewis-McChord FOCUS July 2021 Patti Jeffrey
Attend ODR classes & events
Staff Sgt. David Chapman
Our Outdoor Recreation program allows you to learn new things and gain new skills! We offer opportunities to obtain an open water diver certification that allows you to dive anywhere in the world. We also offer indoor rock-climbing classes to help you transition to outdoor rock climbing on your own. Here’s what’s happening this month: Take an open water diver course that introduces and helps you master underwater diving skills up to a depth of 60 feet. You’ll practice in a pool until you’ve confidently learned what you need for the next step — an open water dive to obtain your certification. This month’s courses are July 5–11, July 12–18 and July 25–Aug. 1. The cost is $240 per person, which includes the course book, equipment and instruction. Payment is due when enrolling. Call the Scuba Diving Center at 253-967-3405. Learn the basics needed to start rock climbing at Adventures Unlimited’s indoor rock wall Friday evenings, 6–8. The course provides a comprehensive introduction to top-rope climbing including how to secure a harness, tie in as
a climber, complete the proper system checks and communicate with your climbing partner. You’ll also learn how to belay (manage the rope in order to keep the climber safe), catch a fall and lower your climber back to the ground. The cost is $25 per class for ages 14 and older. Register by calling 253-982-2303. Sign up for a 3D Archery Shoot Saturday, July 24, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. If you like archery and want to practice using your own equipment, try our archery course for fun and skill building! The walking course features 12 3D targets. The entry fee is $10 per patron; no age restrictions. Call 253-967-7056 to register. Join other competitors at the Shotgun Shooting Complex at Lewis Main for the monthly Sporting Clays 100-Target Shoot. Saturday, July 17, sign up 9 a.m.–12:15 p.m. Shooting starts at 10:30 a.m. The cost is $35 for nonregistered shooters and $24 for registered shooters. If you’re bringing your own shotgun, you must register it beforehand. See JBLMmwr.com under Outdoor Recreations’ shooting sports section for weapons regulations.
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JBLM FreedomFest July 4, 11 am through fireworks! Cowan & Memorial Stadiums
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FEATURE
History is right under your feet American Lake beaches have a colorful history with wartime recreation
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o matter where you go at JBLM, you’re walking on historical grounds holding stories that have been experienced by so many others before you. American Lake’s history is still developing with new tales to tell the end of every summer! When you’re out at Summer Cove, Russell Landing or Shoreline Park, explore what’s new while you discover history.
Beaches built for recreation From the beginning of Camp Lewis in 1917, American Lake has been a magnet for recreation. During World War I, Soldiers used American Lake for beach parties, swimming contests, dances and picnics. After the war ended, the population of Camp Lewis dipped to only 1,000. In 1927, the camp became permanent and was renamed Fort Lewis. There was no funding for American Lake recreation when Brigadier General Joseph C. Castner arrived in 1929, but he set out to reignite good times on the shores. With free labor from federal prison workers, two recreational log cabins were built in 1932 — one at the
officers’ beach (Russell Landing) and the other at the enlisted beach (Shoreline Park). The cabins no longer stand today, but historical markers have been installed — one at Shoreline Park and the other at Russell Landing — to commemorate the history of the cabins and beaches.
Shoreline Park’s heyday The enlisted beach (known as Beach No. 3 in World War II) got the royal treatment with new funding. From 1941–1945, two picnic pavilions, a second clubhouse, recreation building, boathouse, boat storage, rafts, floats, diving platforms, docks, a boardwalk, picnic tables, shelters and change houses were added — and the place became recreation heaven. Continued on page 15.
Right: The wheelchair-accessible scenic path from Shoreline Park to Russell Landing and on to Summer Cove is a delight to walk. Inset: A log cabin clubhouse at the officer’s beach entertained Soldiers until it was torn down.
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Inset photo: Lewis Army Museum. Background photo: Patti Jeffrey
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Top inset: Collection of Meltarrus Washington. Bottom inset: Washington State Progress Commission
Imagine Shoreline Park with buses full of Soldiers arriving to boat, swim and play horseshoes, baseball, volleyball and tennis. Add to it several hundred women brought in for a July 4th picnic and dance in 1942, and you had the biggest party of the war. Beach No. 3 was also used for water safety training and combat swimming programs designed for crossing rivers and beach landings. Nurses also were trained how to jump from a ship, swim to patients and tow them back. After WWII, the beach remained popular for recreation. Upgrades included mason-built stone walls in 1962, replacement construction in the 1970s and a new bathhouse in 1975.
Russell Landing and Summer Cove reinvigorate past The officers’ beach was renamed Russell Landing in 1996 to honor one of the longest-serving Navy officers, Admiral James Russell, who grew up on American Lake. A youth camp, constructed in the mid-1950s, was located just up the beach. Sleeping accommodations included Quonset huts, wood-frame huts and a caretaker’s house. They were all demolished when the youth camp closed. The old camp was reinvented as Summer Cove Park — complete with playground equipment, a splash park, beach and renovated grounds.
Northwest Adventure Center’s beach catered to NCOs
Inset top: In the late 1940s, Mel Washington, Drum Major for the 21st Army, played saxophone with the first integrated jazz band at Fort Lewis. Here, he played at the NCO Club (note the log cabin). Inset bottom: The Washington State Progress Commission in Olympia furnished postcards for the convenience of the armed services. This 1944 postcard pictures one of the beaches at Fort Lewis for Service members to recreationally swim.
A beach for NCOs was located on the east shore, where the Northwest Adventure Center and cabins stand today. Accommodations included a clubhouse, boat piers and picnic areas. The buildings served as the ODR rental center from 1973– 1999, until they were demolished to make way for the new log cabin rentals and the NAC.
Beachside trail takes you on scenic walk Benches, picnic tables, a sandy beach, wading area and toddler and youth playgrounds complete the scenic family-oriented grounds at Shoreline Park. One of JBLM’s best-kept secrets — which we hope you discover — is the wheelchair-accessible walking trail from Shoreline Park all the way to Summer Cove. This summer, explore your JBLM parks and recreation built upon a rich history of fun times! Editor’s note: The history of American Lake was provided by Gary Stedman and Dwayne Denfeld as told to Scott Ballentine. For more information about Camp Lewis/Fort Lewis, visit lewisarmymuseum.com.
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18 Joint Base Lewis-McChord FOCUS July 2021 Emiliano Hernandez
Enjoy fun & food with us Taco Tuesdays are tasty Did you know we have our own taco truck? Plan to come over to Warrior Zone Tuesdays for delicious street tacos made fresh and served with a variety of sauces, including our own in-house J.A.S. sauce! The truck also moves to other locations on select days to sell lunch — check JBLMmwr.com for July dates. Better yet, join us for Taco Tuesday Trivia every Tuesday for tacos with drinks and Kahoot! trivia starting at 7 p.m. Questions will be displayed throughout the facility and players use their personal devices to answer. Play for bragging rights and café food vouchers. The theme is Harry Potter for July 13! Warrior Zone is open to DOD ID card holders ages 18 and older.
Join fun nights at Warrior Zone Along with Taco Tuesday Trivia nights, Warrior Zone offers more fun and games: • Thursdays at 6:30, compete for prizes at our pool tourneys. • Saturdays at 7 p.m., join us for Anime Night. • Saturday, July 10, watch UFC 264: Poirer vs. McGregor 3 on one of our big screens. Order food and drinks while you’re here! We offer gourmet burgers and salads, flatbread pizzas, loaded sandwiches and wraps, quesadillas, jumbo wings and more. Warrior Zone is on the corner of N. 17th and D streets at Lewis North. Call 253-477-5756 for more information. Open to DOD ID card holders ages 18 and older.
Enter Bowl Arena Lanes’ no-tap team tournaments Have fun competing with other teams at Bowl Arena Lanes’ nine-pin no-tap doubles team tourneys the second Saturday Continued on next page.
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of each month. Bowlers of all skill levels can compete in this fun tournament! July 10, check in and register starting at 1 p.m., practice 1:45–2 and play 2–4. Scores are based on three games bowled and partners’ scores totaled for placing. The cost is $60 per two-person team. Bowl Arena Lanes is at 2272 Liggett Ave. at Lewis Main. Questions? Call 253-967-4661.
name will be placed on a plaque on Bowl Arena’s wall for bragging rights! Entry forms are available at the front counter or download your entry form from JBLMmwr. com under bowling. The tournament is open to active duty, retired military, DOD ID card holders and all spouses. Entrants must be USBC members. For more details, call 253-967-4661.
Get in on Pizza & Bowling Sundays
Kids bowl free this summer
Bring your group to Bowl Arena Lanes Sundays and receive one large one-topping pizza for $3 off regular price (limit two pizzas), with each reservation made noon–6 p.m. Show your bowling receipt to the Strike Zone Café staff to receive your discount. Pizza redemption must be made on the day of the reservation.
Bowl Arena Lanes is excited to take part in “Kids Bowl Free” summer program daily through Tuesday, Aug. 31. Register your children ages 17 and younger for a free bowling pass (two free games of bowling a day) at Bowl Arena Lanes. Adults can purchase a family pass to bowl with your kids for a one-time fee starting at $29 per family, good for the entire summer. Rental shoes are not included. Registration is online at KidsBowlFree.com/ JBLM. Fill out the registration form and submit. Your coupon notification will be sent directly to your email to print out and redeem. The program is available to all authorized DOD ID card holders and sponsored guests. Bowl Arena Lanes is at 2272 Liggett Ave., Lewis Main. Call 253-967-4661 for more information.
Enter Northwest Military Masters Bowl Arena Lanes invites you to enter the annual Northwest Military Masters Bowling Tournament Saturday, July 17. One in four bowlers wins cash, and first place garners $1,000 (based on 36 entries). Entry is $100 per bowler. The tournament format is five qualifier games, top five round-robin semifinals and top three stepladder finals. The overall winner’s
JBLM Public Affairs
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Heads up for JBLM Reunited!
Left and right photos: JBLM Public Affairs
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ark Aug. 25–28 on your calendar! MWR is pulling out the stops on endof-summer festivities with JBLM Reunited. We’ll be starting the week off with Retiree Appreciation Day Wednesday, Aug. 25, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. at Waller Hall, open to military and civilian retirees, guests and personnel. Next up is Brigade Sports Day Thursday, Aug. 26 at the Lewis North Athletic Complex, open to active duty Service members. Single Service Member Day is Friday, Aug. 27, 6:30 a.m.–4 p.m. at Warrior Zone and adjacent areas. The day begins with a fun run and features entertainment, competitions, prizes, carnival games, canvas painting and more. Food will be available for purchase. All single Service members are invited to attend.
The 5K Light Up the Night Run is also being held Friday at 8:30 p.m. at the Watkins Parade Field with glow-in-the-dark items, DJ music and laser show. The event is open to all DOD ID card holders; the cost is $25 per runner. Look for registration details at JBLMraces. com and fb.com/JBLMmwr. The wrap-up JBLM Reunited Celebration is being held Saturday, Aug. 28, 11 a.m.– 8 p.m. at Cowan and Memorial stadiums with stage acts, roving entertainers, kids’ stage, military static displays, fair food, carnival games, car show and much more. This event is for JBLM DOD ID card holders and guests. Be on the lookout for details and announcements at JBLMmwr.com and fb.com/JBLMmwr as these events draw closer!
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FEATURE
Join ‘Women Rock’ outdoor program By Patti Jeffrey & RyAnn Peverley here’s a new program at Outdoor Recreation called “Women Rock.” It’s not a music or dance program. It’s more nitty-gritty and down-to-earth. It will also take you to new heights and places you’ve never been before. ODR course instructor RyAnn Peverley says, “Women Rock is a structured outdoor recreation program geared toward women within the JBLM community, whether active duty, military family members, civilians or retirees. We’ll teach them basic skills in rock climbing, backpacking and stand-up paddleboarding in our courses throughout the summer months. They can then use those skills in their own outdoor adventures in the Pacific Northwest.” These three courses are available through September. Each course will offer hands-on skills learning and practice in a safe outdoor environment. Attendance will be limited to 10 women per class.
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Rock climbing course This course is designed to teach the necessary skills to safely top-rope climb. You’ll learn how to safely fit a harness, tie in as a climber, properly check systems and communicate with your climbing partner. You’ll also learn how to belay a climber, catch a fall and safely lower a climber to the ground. This course includes three instructional
nights on Adventure Unlimited’s indoor climbing wall before heading out to climb rock on an all-day field trip at Frenchman Coulee in Eastern Washington. In-class instruction takes place Wednesday evenings Aug. 4, Aug. 18 and Sept. 1, plus the Saturday, Sept. 4 field trip. The cost is $225, which includes hands-on instruction and all gear necessary for successful outdoor skills in climbing.
Backpacking trips You’ll learn all the basics of backpacking through a hands-on weekend and leave empowered to spend more time on the trail! Each trip begins with an instructional night at Adventures Unlimited where you’ll learn what and how to pack for your trip (we’ll send all participants a detailed packing list). The gear that we provide will be detailed at the instructional night. You’re expected to bring your own clothing, personal gear (such as head lamps and water bottles), medications and approved optional items. The cost is $125 per trip and includes instruction, partial gear and camping fees. Trip 1 will be at the south fork of the Skokomish River July 10–11 with the instructional class Friday, July 2. Trip 2 will be at the Beverly Turnpike trail in the Cascade Mountains Snoqualmie region
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Aug. 7–8 with the instructional class Friday, July 30. Trip 3 will be at Blue Lake to Loowit Trail in the southern Cascades Sept. 18–19 with the instructional class Friday, Sept. 10.
Stand-up paddleboard outings Never tried stand-up paddleboarding before, or don’t have an SUP to call your own? No worries! All equipment is provided, as well as hands-on training (if you need some instruction or a quick refresher). We’ll spend time learning about equipment,
beginning strokes, turns, balance and how to get back on. Once you’re ready, the group will paddle around and explore American Lake. Midday outings will be Saturday, July 31, Sunday, Aug. 29 and Saturday, Sept. 11. The cost is $45 per outing for instruction and equipment.
Registration details Call 253-966-7972 for more information on any of these instructional series. Register at JBLMmwrRegistration.com. Visit JBLModr. com for outdoor recreation information.
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Perform your own oil change With our help, you can save time & money
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hanging engine oil is critical to longterm maintenance of personal vehicles. The challenge is, who has the time or the money to change their oil regularly? McChord Auto Center is here to help you learn the fastest and cheapest way to change your oil at JBLM. Simply order oil and filter from your favorite online or local retailer, then call McChord Auto Center to reserve the dedicated oil change bay. Don’t worry about not knowing how — our friendly staff will help you learn how to do it on your own next time around.
With just a little research for your vehicle, most patrons are able to change their oil from start to finish in 30–45 minutes. Using the tools and lifts at McChord Auto Center makes the process super easy. There’s no need to figure out what to do with your old oil — they take care of that for you free of charge. If done right, the oil change shouldn’t cost you more than $50 and 50 minutes of your time. For more information, call 253-982-7226 Thursdays–Sundays. McChord Auto Center is located at McChord Field, 1120 Barnes Blvd. (next door to McChord Arts & Crafts Center).
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Get in on July golf specials Families can save on golf
fees start at 11 a.m. only at Whispering Firs.
Introduce your family to the game of golf while having fun! A family of four can golf nine holes 2–4 p.m. weekends for $60, which includes pull carts, rental clubs, range balls, hot dogs or snacks and fountain drinks for four. Valid for youth ages 6–17. (Offer good at the green course at Eagle’s Pride Golf Course.)
• Coupon special — Dine or golf with us and receive a coupon for 15% off food and drinks on your next visit to Eagle’s Pride Grill or Habañero Mexican Grill (excludes alcohol). Unless noted, specials cannot be combined with other discounts, used for holidays, tournaments or outings or used with the annual card.
Golf & food specials help you save more
Compete in golf scrambles all season
Take advantage of these July specials: • Red, white and blue sale July 1–4. Create your own sale and receive 10% off regularly priced merchandise with red, white or blue. Any regularly priced product with two of the colors is 15% off and all three colors is 20% off (excludes 2021 PING clubs). Items can be combined for discounts. • Independence Day golf special — pay twilight green fees sarting at 11 a.m. Sunday, July 4. • Dewsweeper discounts are available Mondays and Thursdays until 8:30 a.m. with $23 green fees. Add a cart for $14 per rider! • Bucket, Bite & Bev — Get a medium bucket of pro shop range balls, hot dog and domestic draft or soda for only $12 (limit one per day, must purchase range balls in pro shop). • Wonderful Wednesdays — Twilight green EaglesPrideGolf
Enjoy Friday CG Golf Scrambles at JBLM golf courses! Enter as a four-person team or be placed on a team. Upcoming scrambles are at: • Whispering Firs July 16 at 1 p.m. • Eagle’s Pride Aug. 13 at 1 p.m. • Whispering Firs Sept. 17 at noon. • Eagle’s Pride Oct. 15 at 11 a.m. The cost is $40 per person and includes your green fee and cart rental. Registration starts two weeks before each event; call the pro shop at Whispering Firs (253-982-2124) or Eagle’s Pride (253-964-2786).
Improve your game with lessons Learn to better your game with summer golf lesson packages taught by PGA instructor John Eisentrout at Eagle’s Pride. Call 253-964-2786 for more information. WhisperingFirsGolf
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Stay fit & have fun with us Enter 2021 Freedom Run Enter JBLM’s 2021 Freedom Run Saturday, July 17, honoring all those who have served. Wear red, white and blue; active duty personnel are welcome to wear uniforms. The race is at the MWR Fest Tent, located at 2200 Liggett Ave. at Lewis Main. Choose from 10-mile, 5K and 1K run options during registration at JBLMraces.com or call 253-967-6420. The cost is $30 for the 10-miler; $25 for the 5K. Active duty Service members may compete to earn a spot on the JBLM Army Ten-Miler team; race times will be recorded in this qualifier. The fastest five males and five females from JBLM Army Ten-Miler qualifier races will represent JBLM Sunday, Oct. 10 at the race in Washington, D.C.
Challenge yourself with Fit Club Sports, Fitness & Aquatics’ virtual Fit Club is still going strong. There’s a new Fit Club challenge every month at fb.com/JBLMmwr under events — an opportunity to join the Fit Club if you haven’t yet taken part. Continue in your pursuit of an overall healthier lifestyle with these challenges: • July’s Ride Across Washington and Burpee 400. Accumulate 360 miles on a
spin, stationary or road bike and complete sagittal burpees across 400 meters distance as fast as possible. • August’s Climb Rainier and TTB 3. Climb the accumulated height of Mount Rainier of 14,411 feet on a vertical climber exerciser in one month and complete as many toe-tobars as you can within three minutes (you must remain on the bar the entire time). Send your name, contact information and proof of completion of this month’s challenge to usarmy.jblm.imcom.list.dfmwr-sports@mail. mil. Proof can be a photo of equipment screen,
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JBLM SFA staff
smart watch, distance and route app read-outs and other verification of completion. The Facebook event will be updated as participants complete challenges. For July’s contest, the first 25 finishers for each event receive a T-shirt. The first 25 biking finishers receive a custom water bottle. The top three males and top three females who complete the fastest Burpee 400 receive a custom MWR cooling towel. Each completion of a challenge will earn participants an entry into a grand prize drawing (Echo Bike) along with other prize incen-
tives. Completing the burpee challenge earns you one entry, ride Washington earns you two entries and completing both earns you five entries into the grand prize drawing. See details at fb.com/JBLMmwr under events or at JBLMsfa.com.
Choose from vary of fitness classes We’re offering a wide variety of fitness classes to capture your interest and challenge you! Find a description and schedule of 50-minute classes available at various JBLM fitness centers at JBLMsfa.com.
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How to order custom T-shirts from your Arts & Crafts Center
C
ome in and check out our professional silk-screen service at your Arts & Crafts Center! We use modern print techniques for your T-shirts for groups, reunions, unit events and more. We’ll print a minimum of 12 shirts per order. Your T-shirts will never be boring again!
Step 1 Bring in your logo, insignia or design idea or art to the Arts & Crafts Center. Show us your image file or let us help you design your logo.
We can look at your image and give professional advice on how to optimize the look you want.
Step 2 Look at what type and colors of T-shirts you’d like to order. We have material samples you can feel and decide whether you want cotton, a blend or synthetic cloth, depending on how you’ll use them. For quality control and consistent pricing, we only use T-shirts from our suppliers.
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Ordering custom gifts is a breeze Your Arts & Crafts Center helps you turn ordinary gifts into unique memorabilia! From plaques and awards to personalized embroidery and engraving, the experts at Arts & Crafts can help you bring your vision to life with ease. You can choose from predesigned products or beautiful custom designs for any project. For most in-house products, you even can order online or over the phone. Engraving and gifts include in-house items, catalog items you order or even items you bring in. Examples include bags, caps, jackets, guidons, shirts and jerseys. You also can bring in photos and prints to be matted and framed, plus add custom engraving for special occasions. For a wide sample of what we have to offer, simply take a look at our online catalog at JBLMmwr.com under Arts & Crafts. Want to talk over a project you have in mind and get advice? Call 253-982-6719 and speak to the experts! We’re at 1121 Barnes Blvd., McChord Field.
Uniforms, such as unit or squadron T-shirts, are a standard issue from our military supplier.
Step 3 If you want to see a final proof of your image before we print, request it while you’re ordering. Once we set up the job and begin printing, changes in colors or design won’t be possible.
Step 4 Pick up your completed order! We typically ask for a few weeks from start to finish.
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MWR Staff Picks As a spouse of a retired Army staff sergeant, the thing I like the most about MWR is the camaraderie, family atmosphere and consistency you can experience on all bases across the military MWR facilities, CONUS and OCONUS. No matter where you go on your journey through the military as a spouse, Service member or family member, you can always count on MWR to be there for you! My favorite MWR facilities at JBLM are Bowl Arena Lanes and the pools. Bowling and swimming are my two favorite leisure activities, and they are both great exercises mentally and physically. I also love being a Special Olympics coach and using the golf courses, pools, playing fields and gyms for practices to get the athletes ready for competition!
Genia
34 Joint Base Lewis-McChord FOCUS July 2021
Monica My favorite thing about MWR is that it provides so many fun and exciting activities that everyone can enjoy, from single Service members to families. My job enables me to interact with many services that MWR provides, and the variety of things you can do is amazing! If you’re an outdoor person you can visit Outdoor Recreation to rent kayaks, boats, tents — you name it, we have it. If you’d like to stay inside you can visit our libraries or go to the Arts & Crafts Center for custom framing. If you’d like to eat out you can visit Bowl Arena Lanes and eat while you bowl! We also offer community events such as Kids’ Fest, Single Service Member Day, Trunk or Treat and more. What I love about MWR is that we provide great things for Service members and their families to sincerely enjoy and help them feel at home.
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36 Joint Base Lewis-McChord FOCUS July 2021
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Join summer reading fun & more Y
ou still have time to join McChord, Grandstaff and Book Patch Children’s libraries for an amazing summer filled with reading, fun, prizes and a Grand Finale Party. Pick up your packets for the 2021 Summer Reading Program, “Reading Colors Your World.” The program runs through Thursday, Aug. 12. The benefits of summer reading are clear. Research shows that students who participate in library summer reading programs scored higher on reading achievement tests at the beginning of the next school year than those who did not participate. Even adults who join the summer reading program benefit by reading to their prereaders, showing tots how fun reading can be, plus reading books for their own pleasure.
McChord Library 851 Lincoln Blvd. McChord Field 253-982-3454 Grandstaff Library 2109 N. 10th Lewis Main 253-967-5889 Book Patch Children’s Library 2109 N. 10th Lewis Main 253-967-5533
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Enjoy reading, fun & some really big prizes Once you’ve registered at your library of choice, each time you complete 10 hours of reading (up to 30 hours), you’ll receive a prize. Once you’ve read 30 hours, you’ll be invited to a grand finale party Thursday, Aug. 12 at the MWR Fest Tent that rewards those who complete the program. But that’s just for starters — you’re also invited to attend weekly live entertainment events at your library.
Grandstaff/Book Patch Children’s Library events Events take place Thursdays at 4 p.m.: • Free movie, Disney’s “Raya and the Last Dragon,” July 1. • Reptile Isle July 8. • “The physics guy” Bill Robinson July 15. • Sardis Raptor Bird Rescue demonstration July 22. • Magician Jeff Evans July 29. • Physical comedian and juggler Henrik Bothe Aug. 5.
McChord Library events Events take place Tuesdays at 1 p.m.: • “Science guy” Professor Ficklestein July 6. • “The Rainbow Rider” stunt man Rob Stuverud July 13. • Side-show illusionist Louie Foxx July 20. • Pirate entertainer Cap’n Arr July 27. • Anne Rutherford from Seattle Storyteller Guild Aug. 3.
Get a free storytime reading app This summer, United Through Reading is proud to sponsor the Family & MWR Summer Reading Program. After program registration, download the United Through Reading secure app preloaded with 10 e-books you can read aloud and record. Continued on next page.
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Visit your library to receive a free copy of the first book (while supplies last) and make your recording on-site at the library story station. Continue to access e-books, request a book directly from United Through Reading, or use books from your library to build a recorded story library right in the app, conveniently available to access whenever your child wants to enjoy a story. For 32 years, United Through Reading has connected military families through the power of shared storytime. Whether separated due to deployment, temporary duty assignment, or stationed away from their loved ones, Service members can always be available for storytime with a United Through Reading recording. At over 200 locations around the world and on their free mobile-reading app, Service members can make a recording anytime, anywhere.*
Libraries offer in-person storytime McChord and Book Patch Children’s libraries are back in person with weekly children’s storytimes where reading is fun for the entire family. • Each Wednesday at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., Book Patch will share read-aloud stories with free take-home craft kits. • Every Thursday, McChord Library is presenting a storytime at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. with free craft kits. Visit JBLMlibraries.com and register on the calendar of events. If you find the registration for the week is full, you still can drop by the library to pick up a free craft kit while supplies last.
Read with Bogan, the therapy dog Kids can spend time reading their favorite book to a reading assistance dog at Book Patch Children’s Library’s “Books with Bogan.” Bogan is visiting 3:30–4:30 p.m. Thursdays, July 8 and 22. By providing quiet comfort, the trained dog transforms into a supportive reading buddy and trusted friend in a safe and welcoming space. Books with Bogan was created with the idea
that children’s literacy can benefit from trained therapy animals. When children read aloud to a therapy dog, it reduces stress and increases a child’s confidence. Visit JBLMlibraries.com and register on the calendar of events. Bogan is waiting to hear from you!
Book a tech expert for free Are you puzzled by new devices, downloads and software? Get one-on-one help with your technology questions at the McChord Library. We’re here to: • Assist you with digital resources, such as library’s e-books or audiobooks. • Help you get familiarized with your phone, laptop, tablet and other digital devices. • Help you better learn about software, apps or other technology. Book a one-hour session with a tech expert at McChord Library to get started. Tech help is offered by appointment Wednesdays and Fridays at 2 p.m. Call McChord Library at 253-982-3454 or visit JBLMlibraries.com for more information and to make an appointment.
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*No federal endorsement implied.
How often do you ask yourself what’s safe to put in your recycling bin?
Next time you go to throw something away, get creative and think of ways to reduce waste in the first place! Only paper, cardboard, plastic bottles, jugs, jars, aluminum and tin cans can go into your recycling bin. Plastic bags are not allowed. JBLM recycling centers are only open to authorized users. Please check out local landfills to recycle excess materials.
fb.com/SustainableJBLM JBLMmwr.com 41
42 Joint Base Lewis-McChord FOCUS July 2021 JBLM Public Affairs
Get involved with youth programs Youth camps & sports Sign up for summer youth camps If your child is CYS-registered, sign up now for weeklong school-age summer camps through the week of Monday, Aug. 23. Register at MilitaryChildCare.com. Choose from Cascade School Age Center, Lewis North SAC or McChord SAC for grades K–5. For students in grades 6–8, sign up for Hillside Youth Center camps. If you’re not registered yet with CYS, call Parent Central Services at 253-966-2977 to make an appointment. Meanwhile, you can sign up on a waiting list at MilitaryChildCare. com.
Enroll in summer sports Youth sports are recreational leagues inclusive of all youth who want to learn the fundamentals and have fun. Registration is currently open for: • Fall Soccer for ages 5–15 and Fall Bumblebee Soccer for ages 3–4 through Thursday, July 29.
• The First Tee Golf Camp 1 through Monday, July 5 and The First Tee Golf Camp 2 through Wednesday, July 7 for ages 7–18. • Funky Fit PE Games for ages 5–12 through Monday, July 19. • Funky Fit Racquet Sports for ages 5–12 through Monday, July 26. Youth must be registered with Child & Youth Services to enroll in sports. For complete information and to enroll, visit JBLMcys Registration.com.
Volunteer as a youth sports coach Do you come to all your child’s games or meet and connect well with kids and parents? Share your love of sports with JBLM youth as a volunteer sports coach. Youth sports provides training and offers sports fee vouchers. A background check is required. For more information, stop by the Youth Sports office at 6398 Garcia Blvd. (Lewis Main). The office is open 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m. weekdays. Questions? Call 253-967-2405. Continued next page.
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Hillside Youth Center classes & events Take a certified babysitting course Youth ages 12–18 are invited to learn how to babysit children and obtain CPR/First Aid certification in a free babysitting course at Hillside Youth Center/Teen Zone. During 10 hours of instruction, youth will learn 4-H/FAP curriculum: • Basic care for infants & children, and recognizing abuse and neglect. • Developmental ages & stages. • Safety and CPR/first aid techniques. • Character and role modeling.
• Business practices. Classes are being offered July 19–23, Aug. 23–27 and Sept. 20–24. Classes meet 4–6 p.m. Monday, Thursday and Friday, and 4–7 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday for CPR/ first aid. Youth must complete all hours of instruction for certification and have a current CYS/MST registration. If your youth is CYS-registered, but not currently MST-registered, come to Hillside Youth Center and register for free. Call 253-967-4441 for registration details.
Have fun with weekly events If you have a preteen or teen who is CYSregistered, let them know about Hillside Youth Center/Teen Zone membership. We offer
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Ursula Buford
free clubs, classes and resources for helping youth grow into their best selves the more they participate in our program. We offer clubs where youth learn positive values and life skills, such as SMART Girls, Passport to Manhood, Healthy Habits, Torch Club, Keystone Club, Diplomas 2 Degrees, SMART Moves, Junior Staff, Youth of the Month and Youth of the Year. We also have fun with barbecues, book writing, anime, open recreation and more. Youth also have a hand in helping staff plan future events and voice their ideas at our monthly Teen Town Hall. Hillside membership is free — all you need to do is fill out a membership form. We’re located at 6397 Garcia Blvd. at Lewis Main. Call 253-967-4441 for more information.
Start a childcare business at JBLM Earn up to $2,00 a month, plus bonus Do you live at JBLM and want to make a difference in JBLM children’s lives? Earn up to $2,000 a month by training to be a Family Child care provider! Get free training, resources and support. If you’re a first-time provider, you could receive a $1,000 bonus. If you’re already an FCC provider who has just arrived at JBLM, you could qualify for a $1,000 bonus by relocating your FCC business here. Make your appointment to attend an FCC orientation at 2275 Liggett Ave., Lewis Main Tuesday, July 20, 6–8 p.m. For more information, call the FCC office at 253-967-3039.
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Summer meals available at JBLM for eligible families C
hild & Youth Services announces the sponsorship of the Summer Food Service Program for children. Meals are made available at no charge to attending children ages 18 and younger who are enrolled in schoolage, middle school or teen summer programs. Children who are members of Washington Basic Food households, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families assistance units Household Size
Annual
Monthly
1
$21,978
$1,832
2
29,637
2,470
or households receiving Food Distribution Programs on Indian Reservations benefits are automatically eligible to receive free meal benefits at eligible program sites (enrolled summer programs or residential summer camps). Other children from families whose income is at or below the levels in the following table are also eligible for free meal benefits if enrolled in a program offered at our sites: Every Two Weeks
Weekly
$916
$846
$423
1,235
1,140
570
Twice/Month
3
37,296
3,108
1,554
1,435
718
4
44,955
3,747
1,874
1,730
865
5
52,614
4,385
2,193
2,024
1,012
6
60,273
5,023
2,512
2,319
1,160
7
67,951
5,663
2,832
2,614
1,307
8
75,647
6,304
3,152
2,910
1,455
Each additional household member add:
+7,696
+642
+321
+296
+148
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Your rights under civil rights laws In accordance with federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its agencies, offices and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language), should contact the agency where they applied for benefits. Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at 800-8778339.
Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English. To file a program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, (AD-3027) found online at https://www.usda.gov/oascr/filing-programdiscrimination-complaint-usda-customer and at any USDA office, or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call 866-632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA in one of the following ways: • By mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410. • By FAX: 202-690-7442. • By email: program.intake@usda.gov.
Where meals are being served This institution is an equal opportunity provider. Meals are served at the following locations: Site Name and Address
Inclusive Dates
Meals/Times
Contact Phone Number
Cascade School Age Center, 2402 Bitar Ave.
June 21–Aug. 27
Breakfast: 8–9 a.m. Lunch: 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. Snack: 1500-1600
253-966-8977
Lewis North School Age Center, 8584 American Lake Ave.
June 21–Aug. 27
Breakfast: 7:30–8:30 a.m. Lunch: 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. Snack: 3–4 p.m.
253-966-7166
McChord School Age Center, 3032 Dogwood St.
June 21–Aug. 27
Breakfast: 7:30–8:30 a.m. Lunch: 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Snack: 2:30–3:30 p.m.
253-982-2203
Hillside Middle School/ Teen Center, 6397 Garcia Ave.
June 21–Aug. 27
Breakfast: 7:30–8:30 a.m. Lunch: 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Snack: 3:30–4:30 p.m.
253-967-3188
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Youth fun pages Cube Maze Start with the red arrow and find your way out to the green arrow.
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Find the differences Can you find the seven differences in the birdhouse pictures?
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Each month, hear what different JBLM Service members, family members, civilians and others like to do in their spare time.
Spc. Leslye Mena Mendoza Last time you tried something new: I tried unagi pie for the first time Memorial Day weekend.
Last adventure you went on: I went to Cherry Creek Falls — it was awesome!
Last good advice you received: Don’t ever change.
Last song you listened to: “What You Won’t Do for Love” by Bobby Caldwell.
Last time you worked out: This morning at Wilson Sports & Fitness Center.
Courtesy photo
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