March 2013 JBLM MWR e-Focus

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Family and MWR fun, food, travel & well-being guide

MARCH 2013 • JBLMmwr.com

KIDS’ FEST Spring Break

Performance Workshop

EASTER EVENTS JBLM Basketball

Championship FLEA MARKET

ST.PATTY’S DAY

Fun Run &

Irish Craic PAGE 26

JBLMmwr.com

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Your truck should work as hard as your boots.

OF OLYMPIA In appreciation of your service and sacrifice, Toyota is offering a $1000 rebate when you finance or lease any new Toyota from your Toyota dealer and Toyota Financial Services, to eligible active and inactive duty personnel.*

$1000 Military Rebate*.

*On approved credit to qualified customers through your participating Toyota dealer and Toyota Financial Services. Not all applicants will qualify. Eligible customers must be in current active duty status in the U.S. Military (Navy, Army, Air Force, Marines, National Guard, Coast Guard and active Reserve) or a U.S. Military inactive reserve that is part of the Individual Rea Reserve, Selected Reserve and inactive National Guard. Rebate offered by Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. Rebate will be applied on lease contracts, first toward amounts due at lease signing or delivery, with any remainder to the capitalized cost reduction or toward the down payment on finance contracts. Finance or lease contract must be executed by Ready Janua 3, 2013. One rebate per lease or finance transaction. Not compatible with the Toyota College Graduate Program. The Military Rebate Program is subject to change or termination at any time. Some restrictions apply. Program may not be available in all states. See participating dealer for details. Toyota Financial Services has not reviewed and is not responJanuary sible for any other offers in this ad. Toyota Financial Services is a service mark of Toyota Motor Credit Corporation. Š2012 Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc

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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • March 2013

CONTENTS FOOD & FUN

6–13

FAMILY & THE HOMEFRONT

14–19

ADVENTURES

20–25

FEELIN’ GOOD

26–27

LEARNING & EARNING

28–29

See what’s new at JBLM golf courses; find great parties at your favorite onbase locations; enjoy dining with us!

Choose from colorful egg hunts; attend Kids’ Fest; sign up for Spring Break Performance Workshop and more

Change gears for spring, from biking through tulip fields to trekking on a moonlight snowshoe trip

Everyone’s invited to our Irish Craic; watch the JBLM Basketball Championship; find your sport this spring

Get help preparing taxes; learn to crochet; save on textbooks; enter basewide Net Zero competition

FROM THE COVER

Cover by Lional Kam

Running’s more fun with friends

Even if you don’t normally run for a workout, dress up and take part in the St. Patty’s Day Run, then reward yourself at the Irish Craic (good times) at the MWR Fest Tent. Get complete details on page 26.

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Wear, go green at JBLM Family and MWR is busy this month — we’re celebrating St. Patty’s Day, hunting for eggs (and for the first time ever at JBLM, swimming for eggs!), sitting down for a good meal and being environmentally friendly.

Bring your lucky charms to the St. Patty’s Day Run & Irish Craic Saturday, March 16. The entire community is invited to the party, which starts at 2:30 p.m. at the MWR Fest Tent. For details, turn to page 26.

Also this month, every kid’s favorite — Easter egg hunts! You’ll find all the details, along with a look ahead to Kids’ Fest, on page 14.

Feast on your breakfast and lunch favorites at the McChord Club/ Community Center’s Easter Sunday Brunch. Plus, get a great-tasting meal close to work and home at any of MWR’s eateries. Find all the Food & fun details beginning on page 6.

Golf deals and tourneys are available at both JBLM courses this month, and guided nature walking tours will be available beginning next month at Eagles Pride. Details are on page 12.

Finally, JBLM is working toward becoming a Net Zero installation by 2020. Join the competition and win $10,000 for your unit funds (page 29).

And, please remember to share your MWR experiences with me. Take a few minutes to send your thoughts at http://ice.disa.mil.

FOCUS JBLM

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Family & MWR

William E. Harvey Director, Family & MWR at JBLM

Director, Family & MWR

William E. Harvey

Creative director Toby Bartley Promotions director

Kelly Wetzel

Editor & graphic designer Writer/graphic designer

Kimberly Rowe Patti Jeffrey

Contributors Mary Cron Contributing photographers Ken Dietiker, Emiliano Hernandez, Patti Jeffrey, Lional Kam, JBLM Audiovisual and Outdoor Recreation Program Send submissions to kimberly.rowe@us.army.mil.

For commercial sponsorship or advertising inquiries, off-base businesses should contact Carly Michael at 253-966-2256 or 253-324-0562.

The JBLM “FOCUS” is an unofficial information source published monthly. All 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 FMWR, 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.

Submissions are welcome but may be edited for accuracy, clarity and style.

Visit us at JBLMmwr.com or like us on Facebook at Facebook.com/JBLMFamilyMWR.

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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • March 2013

You’re cordially invited to

Operation: Baby Shower A free event honoring expecting couples and new parents

Saturday, March 16

McChord Club/Community Center 10:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.

• Free baby bags for the first 50 moms!

• Door prizes • Games • Free hors d’oeuvres

• Free mocktail bar • Wii Fit tournament for dads • Nursing lounge For more info, call 253-982-0718

No federal endorsement intended

US FAMILY HEALTH PLAN

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Food & fun

W

hether you’re at McChord Field, Lewis Main or Lewis North, you’ll find a nearby MWR establishment that satisfies your appetite!

Join the club by March 31 to enjoy exclusive savings Join the McChord Club today for exclusive savings tomorrow! The Air Force Club membership drive is on through the end of March and is open to everyone at JBLM, including active duty military and Family members, Reserves, National Guard, military retirees and DoD civilians.

When you complete an application, you’ll receive an instant-win scratch ticket worth $5–$100! Even more, you’ll get your first four months’ dues free!

Sign up now to enjoy these March specials: • Free food at Globemaster Grill every Friday, 5–6 p.m.

• 2-for-1 Steak Night Friday, March 22, 5–8 p.m. Pay only $18.95 for two dinners that include baked potato, salad and roll.

• Free club member appreciation luncheon, Wednesday, March 27, 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Club members pay nothing, Family members pay $5.

• Club member Two-fer-Tuesdays — two meals for the price of one in Globemaster Grill, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.

Patti Jeffrey

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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • March 2013

Pictured left: Airmen Maria McGinnis and Omonov Zavki enjoy a hearty “blue plate” lunch special at Globemaster Grill inside the McChord Club at McChord Field. The grill is bright and airy with ample seating on multiple levels. Globemaster is open from 11 a.m.–2 p.m. weekdays at 700 Barnes Blvd.

• Bingo every Friday in Globemaster Grill. Cards go on sale at 5 p.m., early-bird game starts at 5:30 p.m., cover-all game is at 6 p.m., jackpot is $800–$1,195.

To ask how you can become a club member, call the McChord Club at 253-982-5581, or visit afclubs.net for an application. The club is located at 700 Barnes Blvd. at McChord Field.

Everyone’s invited to take advantage of these other club specials: • German buffet night Thursday, March 21 from 5–8 p.m. Reservations are required; call 253-982-5581.

• Wednesday’s “Hump Day” Globemaster Grill lunch special: Burgers, fries and soda is $4 for club members, $5 for nonmembers. Served from 11 a.m.–1 p.m.

• The dining room is open every Friday night for dinner from 5–8 p.m.

Bring Family to Easter buffet Make your reservations for the popular annual Easter Sunday Brunch at the McChord Club Sunday, March 31.

The menu includes roast beef, glazed ham, stuffed chicken breast, seafood, traditional breakfast items including omelettes made to order, fresh fruit, Caesar salad, desserts and beverages.

A special egg hunt for children is included and begins at noon for Families with brunch reservations.

The cost is $23.95 for adults, $22.95 for seniors ages 62 and older, $14.95 for ages 6–10 and $5 for ages 5 and younger.

Club members receive a $2 per meal discount from listed prices.

Call 253-982-5581 for reservations.

For other Easter egg hunts, turn to page 14.

Habañero Mexican Grill offers more for your lunch money Come on over to McChord Field for huge freshly made burritos, tacos, salads, soups and more at Whispering Firs Golf Course’s Habañero Mexican Grill.

Grab a friend and get started with March’s lunchtime offer — buy one lunch and get the second lunch (of equal or lesser value) half off every Monday and Wednesday (beverage not included).

For more info, call 253-982-3271.

Habañero is at 895 Lincoln Blvd.

Experience AFC Battle Bean Café for fresh alternative to fast food If you like to pick up a quick breakfast or lunch on your work break, try Battle Bean Café straight across from Bowl Arena Lanes on Liggett Avenue at Lewis Main.

It’s a delicious alternative to fast food with made-to-order sandwiches, plus healthy soups and salads. (Try the $6.95 March special — Reuben on rye with a bag of chips!)

Stop by AFC Arena for Leisure Travel Services’ annual “Passport to Travel” fair Wednesday, March 6 from 10 a.m.–

2 p.m. and receive a 12-oz. drip coffee for only $1 at Battle Bean Café. (Learn more about the travel fair on page 25.)

Get it all at the Bistro The Bistro at Russell Landing at Lewis North has something for everyone in March: • ‘Appy Hours from 5–7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays with half-price appetizers.

• The Family Pizza Extravaganza Fridays from 5–9 p.m. Order two 12-oz. thin-crust pizzas, two two-topping 7-inch kids’ pizzas and two pitchers of soda for only $20 (excludes The Landing and Tropical Chix).

• The Saturday pasta special from 5–9 p.m. Choose two of five pasta dishes that include a side Caesar salad and an appetizer. Only $20 for two people.

Call 253-964-2813 for more information. The Bistro is at 8981 American Lake Ave.

For more MWR dining, visit JBLMmwr.com under coffee shops, dining and lounges.

Pick up a 12-oz.

Nutty Irishman

at AFC Battle Bean for

only $2

for a mocha, Irish creme flavor and hazelnut coffee delight!

Offer good March 1–31, 2013. No coupon is needed!

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Food & fun

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MILITARY SPECIALS!

www.freestonecherrymeadows.com www.freestonerosewood.com Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • March 2013

Heroes Lounge loves the nightlife Lunches are always great at Cascade Community Center at Lewis Main, and Heroes Lounge is great for its nightlife.

• Watch UFC 158 at no charge Saturday, March 16. Doors open at 5 p.m.

• Drop by Fridays and Saturdays for karaoke and deejay dancing starting at 9 p.m.

• Try your hand at free bar bingo Tuesdays at 7 p.m. with purchase of food or drink.

You can always come in for free darts and pool. Doors are open Monday through Saturday.

Heroes Lounge is inside Cascade Community Center at 2400 Bitar & S. Division at Lewis Main.

For more details, visit JBLMmwr.com.

You’re being celebrated at Whispering Firs!

If you’re a golfer at Whispering Firs, you’re gonna love “March Madness” Customer Appreciation Week from March 11–15.

Save with a different special each day: • Get unlimited golf with all-day greens fees on Monday — $10 for ranks E1–E5; all others pay $15.

• Take 10 percent off lunch in Habañero Mexican Grill Tuesday.

• Pay twilight greens fees all day Wednesday.

• Thursday, get 2-for-1 regularly priced greens fees — one complimentary greens fee when a second of equal or greater value is purchased.

• Power carts are half-price on Friday.

Other specials include: • Discounted annual greens fees card.

Buy 13 months for the price of 12 at the pro shop.

• The new JBLM Golf Pass for $99.

See the feature article on page 13 for details.

• Wear green and save green for the St. Patrick’s Day pro shop sale, Sunday, March 17 with select items on sale.

Also enter your choice of competitions in March at Whispering Firs: • Open to all eligible golfers, the annual Spring Break is the weekend of March 23–24 for $100 per golfer.

Check with the pro shop for details.

• Friday, March 1, get in on the Holein-One Pot for 50 cents a round.

Golfers win whatever’s in the pot for your hole in one!

• Saturday, March 9, enter the Tombstone Tournament for $10 plus your greens fee. The format is stroke play and blind draw for the pro.

For more information, call the pro shop at 253-982-4927. Whispering Firs is located at 895 Lincoln Blvd. at McChord Field.

Find sports, gaming & more at the Warrior Zone Liven up your evenings and weekends at the Warrior Zone. The fun’s always free, with great food and beverage specials: • Watch UFC 158 at no charge Saturday, March 16.

• Get in on the Selection Sunday/St. Patty’s Day party Sunday, March 17 with green brew and Reuben sandwiches. Guess the brackets for the NCAA tournament before the first game on Tuesday for a prize.

• Watch the kickoff of the baseball season Sunday, March 31 while you munch on dogs, peanuts and other ballpark food.

• Weekday entertainment includes Old School Game Nights on Mondays,

pool tourneys on Tuesdays, Texas Hold ‘Em on Wednesdays and Xbox Challenge Night on Thursdays.

For more details, call 253-477-5756.

The Warrior Zone is located at the corner of 17th and D Street at Lewis North.

Enter Northwest Military Masters Sounders Lanes Bowling Center invites you to enter the 8th Annual Northwest Military Masters Tournament Saturday, April 20.

One in four bowlers wins cash, and first place garners $1,000 and entry in the 2013 USBC Masters or USBC Senior Masters (based on 30 or more entries).

Pick up your entry form at the front counter or download it from JBLMmwr.com. The entry fee is $100 if paid by Saturday, April 13.

The tournament is open to active duty, retired military, current DoD employees and all spouses. All entrants must be USBC members.

For more details, call 253-982-5954.

Sounders Lanes is located at 737 Jackson Blvd. at McChord Field.

Have fun at AFC Skate Arena Where can you have instant fun with the entire Family? At the roller skating rink at Lewis Main!

Come out for $1 Wednesday sessions all day for all ages. Sessions are 11 a.m.–1 p.m., 1:30 –3:30 p.m. and 4–6 p.m.

Fridays, skate from 6–9 p.m.; Saturday sessions are 1–3 p.m., 3:30– 5:30 p.m. and 6–8 p.m.; and Sundays are 1–3 p.m. and 3:30–5:30 p.m.

Ages 18 and younger cost $3.50 and adults cost $4.50. Rent rollerblades for $1 more.

The skate arena is at 2275 Liggett Ave. Call 253-967-4458 for more info.

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Food & fun

Parents invited to free baby shower First-time and expectant parents are invited to a free Operation Baby Shower Saturday, March 16 at the McChord Club & Community Center from 10:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.

Free baby bags will be given away to the first 50 attendees. Also enjoy free hors d’oeuvres, mocktail bar, games and door prizes, plus a Wii Fit tournament for dads and a private nursing lounge.

For more details, call 253-982-0718.

Join St. Patty’s Day party in MWR Fest Tent Come join in the fun Saturday, March 16 at the St. Patty’s Day Craic (Irish for party) in the MWR Fest Tent.

Authentic Irish bangers and mash, plus Irish stout, are being served starting at 2:30 p.m.

Live entertainment is from 4:30–6:30 p.m. with Irish music from Tiller’s Folly, the Pacific Northwest’s internationally travelled virtuoso ambassadors of song and performances from the Irish dance school Scoil Rince Slieveloughane. Call 253-477-4299 for more details.

The MWR Fest Tent is located behind Bowl Arena Lanes at 2272 Liggett Ave. at Lewis Main.

Buy treasures at Spring Flea Market One person’s trash is another one’s treasure at the annual Spring Flea Market in the MWR Fest Tent Saturday, March 23 from 9 a.m.– 1 p.m.

Admission is free and the event features more than 80 tables of bargain-priced items, from baby clothes to antique furniture.

For more info, call 253-477-4299.

The MWR Fest Tent is located behind Bowl Arena Lanes at 2272 Liggett Ave. at Lewis Main.

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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • March 2013

Get March discounts with your custom orders Need to custom mat and frame a favorite picture or give a gift?

Your Arts & Crafts Center at McChord Field is offering a St. Patty’s Day special with two-for-one lettering on regular engraving March 11–15.

For more savings, pick an egg out of a basket to learn how much you save off labor fees when you place a custom framing order March 25–29.

Combine the extra discount with the already-low matting and framing costs (plus no tax), and both you and the gift recipient will have something to smile about!

Learn to mat and frame Save both time and money on custom matting by learning how to do it yourself at your Arts & Crafts Center!

Units/squadrons that present month-

ly awards can even designate a member or two to mat and frame the awards for only a DIY rental fee.

Classes are held Tuesdays from 1–4 p.m. Students must preregister for all classes. Call 253-982-6718 for more class information.

Want to place an order?

Come in after work!

To better accommodate customers who work during the day, your Arts & Crafts Center is now open from 9 a.m.–7 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays.

The Arts & Crafts Center is located at 1121 Barnes Blvd. at McChord Field and is open Monday through Friday starting at 9 a.m.

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Food & fun

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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • March 2013

by Patti Jeffrey

E

agles Pride Golf Course recently invited to attend. had the honor of becoming the A master bird guide from the Audu1,000th golf course worldwide to bebon Society and a JBLM Department come Audubon-certified — certification of Public Works Fish & Wildlife reprewas announced two days after Christsentative will run tours initially on the mas in 2012. third Thursday of each month from It is one of five DoD golf courses and 8 a.m.–noon. the second of two Army golf courses Another weekend tour may be added to obtain the prestigious Audubon to accommodate those who work durInternational Cooperative Sanctuary ing the day.

Program certification.

Experts will also be training Audu“This certificabon nature and tion tells the world birds leaders on-site “This certification tells that we do what in coming months. the world that we do we say,” says David New restaurant what we say. We are Wienecke, assistant improvements golf course superincome with new a true environmental tendent. “We are a steward ­— one who has status true environmenEagles Pride is tal steward ­— one achieved both economic positioning itself to who has achieved and habitat sustainabil- bring in and keep both economic and loyal customers habitat sustainability. We really can change with aggressive pricity. We really can ing and a superior the world for the better change the world golf experience. when we do our part.” for the better when While it still we do our part.”

– David Wienecke, assistant golf course prides itself on its The idensuperintendent rich military histity change has tory, the public golf prompted golf course staff members to course is also finding a way to remain be retrained to think of themselves as on par with the regional market, inenvironmental stewards. cluding new golf courses in the area.

From here on out, they’re not only That means a concerted effort to reviin the business of giving golf patrons talize the clubhouse dining experience, a good game but also recapturing the rebrand the golf course’s image with a environment for native habitat. new logo and signage, remodel green Nature walks educate novices complexes and bunkers, complete Starting in April, Eagles Pride will stump removal, routinely cultivate and begin providing guided nature walktop-dress green complexes and fairways ing tours of the wildlife areas around and other major projects to come, inEagles Pride. cluding building a high-caliber practice Anyone who is interested in learncenter. ing about bird watching and wildlife is The first revitalization project in the

clubhouse is opening a new restaurant.

“We are moving toward a brandnew MWR-run restaurant operation,” says Eric Bowen, head golf instructor.

“There’s so much to gain all around — every dollar spent on meals will go right back into the Family & Morale, Welfare and Recreation Directorate, customers have ample parking, it’s highly accessible right off I-5, it’s open to the public, you can plan functions, meetings or parties here — there’s a tremendous upside to serving our population better.”

Competitive deals begin now New this season is the JBLM Golf Pass, which replaces the popular Monday–Friday special with a seven-daya-week value card and a peak-season option for the avid golfer.

The Pass will be sold starting April 1 at both Eagles Pride and Whispering Firs golf courses and will be good for both courses.

Pass holders receive their first game for free; all subsequent rounds have half-price greens fees.

The Pass costs $99 and is valid from April 1 through October. It also includes twilight rates.

For instance, without a cart, an E1– E5 pass holder can play 18 holes for $9; twilight for $6. An E6 or above golfer pays $12 ($7.50 for twilight) and a DoD civilian pays $13 ($8 for twilight). Add a cart for $15 per person.

With those savings, you can buy more for lunch in the clubhouse and browse the pro shop.

For more golf deals, turn to page 9.

For more information, call Eagles Pride at 253-967-6522 or Whispering Firs at 253-982-4927.

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Family & the homefront

for Easter, a r t s g Eg l fun Break & a i c e sp Easter event for Waiting Families The Waiting Family Support Group is hosting an Easter egg hunt Wednesday, March 13 from 1–4 p.m. It’s a great way to spend the Clover Park School District early-release school day!

Bring your Easter basket to the funfilled afternoon at the Family Resource Center, 4274 Idaho Ave. at Lewis Main.

Space is limited, so RSVP today! Call 253-967-3633 to sign up and for details.

WFSG is an outreach support group for active duty military Families on unaccompanied tour, extended temporary duty or field training exercise.

After-dark glow Easter egg hunt Bring your glow sticks to the McChord Library for a glow-in-the-dark Easter egg hunt. The after-dark fun is for youth ages 11–17 Friday, March 22 14

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • March 2013

from 6:30–7:30 p.m. Glow sticks will be provided if needed, and light refreshments will be served.

Registration is required, and begins Friday, March 8 at JBLMmwr.com/ libraries and click on “Calendar of Events” on the right. The McChord Library is located 851 Lincoln Blvd.

Snag your share of 10,000 eggs There will be 10,000 eggs — yes, 10 thousand — at the McChord Community Center’s Easter egg hunt Saturday, March 30.

Youth of all ages are invited to the lawn at the McChord Club/Community Center for a fun morning searching for eggs.

There are three age groups: ages 0–5 at 10 a.m., ages 6–9 at 10:30 a.m. and ages 10 and older at 11 a.m.

The McChord Club/Community Center is located at 700 Barnes Blvd. Call 253-982-0718 for more information.

Swim & splash while hunting for Easter eggs

The Aquatics Branch invites you to JBLM’s first-ever Easter egg hunt in a pool! Free to ID card holders, the Aquatic Easter Egg Hunt is Saturday, March 30 at Kimbro Pool.

Snag floating eggs and sinking eggs in your search for one of two “magic” eggs per group that could earn you a special prize. All participants will receive a goodie bag.

There are hunts for four age groups: 6 months–2 years from 10–10:20 a.m., ages 3–4 from 10:20–10:40 a.m., ages 5–6 from 10:40–11 a.m., ages 7–8 from 11–11:20 a.m. and ages 9–10 from 11:20–11:40 a.m.

Parents must be in the water for hunts through age 4. Each age group is limited to 20 participants. Register on WebTrac at JBLMmwr.com.

Kimbro Pool is located adjacent to

Spring more!

Photos: Left, Lional Kam; Above, Ken Dietiker

McVeigh Sports and Fitness Center at Lewis Main.

Bring your baskets to Easter Dash You could win great prizes at the annual Easter Dash Sunday, March 31 at Cowan and Memorial stadiums.

Run to collect candy and lots of prizes — youth ages 3 and younger will hunt at 1 p.m., ages 4–7 at 2 p.m. and 8 and older at 3 p.m.

This free event is hosted by the JBLM Better Opportunities for Single Service Members Team. Cowan and Memorial stadiums are located at Bitar Avenue and 12th Street at Lewis Main. Call 253-967-5636 for more information.

Easter Brunch and Hunt combo Families with reservations for Easter Sunday Brunch at the McChord Club will also enjoy an Easter egg hunt starting at noon. For details, turn to page 9 in the Food & fun section.

MONTH OF THE MILITARY CHILD Hands-on good times at Kids’ Fest & Spring Break Performance Workshop All knights in shining armor and noblewomen are invited to Kids’ Fest for a medieval times celebration. Kids of all ages will enjoy learning about the Medieval period through themed hands-on activities and crafts. Plus, there will be on-stage entertainment and food available for purchase.

Kids’ Fest is Thursday, April 4 from 1–4:30 p.m. Activities are located inside AFC Arena and the MWR Fest Tent, plus free bowling will be offered during the event at Bowl Arena Lanes.

The annual Kids’ Fest event celebrates JBLM’s youth and kicks off the Month of the Military Child. The celebration coincides with Clover Park School District’s Spring Break and all Families are invited.

Youth ages 7–12 have the opportunity to take the stage at Kids’ Fest in a show they create and write under the guidance of Paul and Elizabeth Stierle. The Spring Break Performing Arts Workshop is April 1–5 from 1–4 p.m. at AFC Arena. The cost is $45 per child, and registration is at Leisure Travel Services, 2275 Liggett Ave. at Lewis Main. Youth will receive a CD of the music they create.

The Stierles are longtime “edutainers” and familiar faces at JBLM Kids’ Fest and other special events. For more information, call 253-967-5776.

For more on Month of the Military Child poster contest, turn to page 19.

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Family & the homefront

PLAY, LEARN & GROW with CYS Services From parent-and-child activities to programming for teens, Child, Youth & School Services has quality options for everyone.

Parent-and-me activities Spend quality time together at Raindrops and Rainbows Parent and Child Play Center — a great place to make new friends and learn new things.

Parents and children ages birth to age 5 are invited to explore on their own or participate in the daily group activity.

Stop by 8197 American Lake Ave. at Lewis North weekdays 8:30 a.m.–noon and 1–4 p.m. and Saturdays 9 a.m.– noon and 12:30–3 p.m. Find the monthly calendar at JBLMmwr.com.

In addition to parent-and-tot dance and gymnastics classes, SKIESUnlimited Youth Academy hosts educational classes that will introduce your youngster to science and math concepts during everyday life. For classes, log onto WebTrac at JBLMmwr.com.

Race for the finish, swing for the fence with youth sports

about coaching at JBLMmwr.com.

Plus, the Armed Forces Kids’ Run is Saturday, April 27 at Cowan Stadium.

Look for details in next month’s issue.

March 12, 6–8 p.m., with provisional classes following. Pick up an application at 2013B. N. 3rd St., Room 127 at Lewis Main. For details, call 253-967-3039.

Become an FCC provider

Get informed, involved online

Registration is going on now for track and field, cross-country, baseball, Special Olympics swimming and track and field and a variety of sports camps. See the youth sports calendar and find out

If you’re interested in providing child care in your on-base home, apply to become a Family Child Care provider, a job that could earn up to $2,000 per month!

The next orientation is Tuesday,

Find out more about Home School Activity Days, youth basketball tourney, child care and more at JBLMmwr.com/cys.

Plus, like us on Facebook. Get up-to-date information from our three pages:

Get the best deal on your 16

Wednesday, March 6 10AM - 2PM • AFC Arena

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • March 2013

• vendors f cruise line • talk to va • exclusive

Get involved, have fun with middle school/teen programs Youth in grades 6–12 are invited to take part in events, programming, special field trips and open recreation at two JBLM locations. All you have to do is register. The following events are offered this month: • Gig Harbor Basketball Tournament Saturday, March 2. Play or cheer on your friends as they hit the hardwood (joint event for both locations)

Raindrops & Rainbows Parent and Child Play Center

Teen Zone: • Travel to Seattle to watch two games in the second round of the PAC 12 women’s basketball tournament Friday, March 8 from 4:30 p.m.– midnight. Tip-off for the two games at Key Arena are 6 and 8:30 p.m.

• Become a Red Cross-certified babysitter with the next two-day class.

You’ll learn about child development, plus CPR and First Aid in a 10-hour course Friday, March 8 and Saturday, March 9.

• Thursday, March 14 is an earlyrelease day for Clover Park School District students, and you’re invited to take a trip to Seattle’s Pike Place Market for sightseeing, shop-

ping and eating (bring your own spending money). The trip leaves at 1:30 p.m. and returns by 7:30 p.m.

• Welcome new teens and say goodbye to old friends at a Hail and Farewell Friday, March 15 at 3:30 p.m. Plus, celebrate those with March birthdays.

• Teens will launch an anti-smoking campaign, The Kick Butts Celebration, Wednesday, March 27 at 2 p.m.

McChord Youth Center: • Ice skate at Sprinker Rec Center Thursday, March 14 from 2–5 p.m.

• Late night basketball and barbecue Friday, March 22, 7–11 p.m.

• Hail & Farewell, Friday, March 29 from 7–10 p.m.

Congratulations to JBLM Youth of the Year Jershika Maple!

Ken Dietiker

• Facebook.com/JBLMCYSS provides an overview of all CYS Services programs and events. With posts at least twice a day, you’ll get reminders about upcoming events and see photos of JBLM youth in action.

• Facebook.com/JBLMCYSSTeen keeps you up to date on middle school/teen programs.

• Facebook.com/JBLMCYSSytl facilitates online youth training and programs.

Jershika Maple, a freshman at Lakes High School and middle school/teen program member for one-and-ahalf years, has been named JBLM Youth of the Year!

Active at both McChord Youth Center and Hillside Youth Center, teens know Jershika because of her bubbly personality and her willingness to lend a helping hand. She’s also recognized regularly for her amazing ability to sing and has shared her beautiful voice at basketball games, talent shows and various other programs. “It is these qualities that made her a prime candidate for Youth of the Year 2013,” said Charissa Lizama, McChord Youth Center manager.

Jershika will now move on to the state level of the Youth of the Year competition, a Boys and Girls Club of America recognition program. Later this month, she’ll join other area winners for a two-day event in Olympia and Seattle. Jershika will meet state legislators and have a tour of the Capitol, plus interviews, photos and a dinner celebration. Good luck, Jershika!

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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • March 2013

Save the date Parent University

Friday, April 26 North Fort Chapel, Lewis North 253-982-5121 • April Focus magazine

education & support with ACS Recognizing, celebrating JBLM’s hardworking volunteers Do you know a volunteer who deserves the title of JBLM Volunteer of the Year?

The JBLM Installation Volunteer Office is now accepting nominations for the award. Categories are youth (18 years and younger), retiree, Family, active duty and adult.

Nominations should describe, in no more than 750 words, why the nominated individual or Family should be recognized as Volunteer of the Year/ Family of the Year, their contributions, accomplishments and community impact during 2012. Additionally, a required nomination form may be found online at JBLMmwr.com/acs.

Hand-carry nominations to the Family Resource Center, 4274 Idaho Ave. by 4:30 p.m. Monday, March 18.

The nominations will be reviewed by a panel independently and winners will be announced during the annual Volunteer Recognition Luncheon and Awards Ceremony Wednesday, May 1, 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. at the McChord Club/Community Center.

Call 253-967-2324 for details.

Plus, JBLM is celebrating National Volunteer Week April 22–26. Stay tuned for details on the great daily events in honor of our installation’s hardworking volunteers.

Free seminars for parents, spouses & those ready to move From the New Parent Support Program to Army Family Team Building and the Mobilization and Deployment Office, ACS offers a variety of free seminars and classes to teach tips and tricks and prepare you for military life.

New Parent Support Program offers classes for expecting parents and parents of babies up to age 3. Learn tips to having a happy baby and more. For class descriptions and schedule, visit JBLMmwr.com/acs_fap.

Army Family Team Building Learn about Army life, from acronyms, deciphering an LES and understanding the chain of command in Level I AFTB class March 5–6. A Level II class is March 19–21, and First Sergeant Spouse Seminar is March 21–22. For details and registration, call 253-967-AFTB.

Mobilization & Deployment Office Prepare for an upcoming deployment or reunion. For a full list of free workshops, visit JBLMmwr.com and navigate to the event calendar.

Airman & Family Readiness Center If you’re preparing to move, separate from the Air Force or are looking for a job, the staffers at AFRC can help. Find useful resources and classes, to include the Smooth Move Workshop. For more information, call 253-982-2695.

Youth poster contest JBLM youth are invited to submit their artwork in the Month of the Military Child poster contest! There will be prizes, and the winning artwork will be displayed at various locations around the installation.

For this year’s contest theme, submission information and drop-off locations, please call 253-968-2299.

Month of the Military Child is a celebration of the important role children play in military communities worldwide. It provides communities an opportunity to applaud military children of all ages for the sacrifices they make daily.

JBLMmwr.com

19

Adventures

SAY HELLO

TO THE GREAT OUTDOORS

As winter turns to spring, we invite you to get outdoors! Celebrate the changing seasons with a variety of adventures — from a moonlit snowshoe trip and the last ski-n-snowboard trips of the season to biking through the tulips and soaking in Sol Duc Hot Springs.

20

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • March 2013

Bike through the Skagit tulips The beauty of hundreds of acres of tulips awaits you! On a guided bike ride through the Annual Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, we’ll tour the Roozengaarde gardens and view open fields of tulips. In the small tourist town of La Conner, we’ll enjoy a hearty lunch and experience the festival from a local perspective. The trip is Sunday, April 14. The fields might be muddy, and the weather might be chilly or rainy, so be prepared and dress in layers with a waterproof jacket. Fee includes bike, helmet and gloves. Difficulty: easy; time: 4 hours; distance: 15 miles. Minimum age: 12 ($55)

Bungee jumping If you’re an adrenaline seeker, you won’t be disappointed in this Saturday, April 6 trip! Head to the base of Mount St. Helens to bungee jump twice off the highest bungee bridge in the U.S. The trip includes two jumps and a T-shirt. Minimum weight: 90 lbs. ($135)

Explore Victoria, B.C. Hop on the ferry and spend the day exploring Victoria, B.C., by foot. The downtown area has everything from antique shops and artisan chocolate shops to the Royal B.C. Museum and IMAX theater. Fee includes walk-on round-trip ferry ticket

and transportation to and from Port Angeles. A passport is required for this Saturday, April 6 trip. ($100; ages 5–11: $85; ages 0–4: $55)

Introduction to single-track mountain biking This instructional ride is designed for beginners looking to try something new. On Saturday, April 13, spend the day learning the basics of mountain biking, while getting plenty of time to work on your newfound skills. Bike, helmet and gloves are provided. Location will be determined based on conditions. Difficulty: easy; ride time: 4 hours; distance: five to six miles. Minimum age: 12 ($35)

Military Day at Crystal Don’t miss the chance to ski or ride Crystal for half-price Sunday, April 7! Gear is provided (you need to go to the NAC to be fitted for gear). Lift tickets aren’t included but should be purchased at the mountain. ($45; have your own gear, pay $25) Moonlight snowshoe Gold Creek Pond Snowshoe on the Snoqualmie Pass trails by the light of the moon Friday, April 5. Gear, guide and instruction are provided. Difficulty: beginner; distance: one-and-a-half miles; elevation gain: 50 feet; time: 2 hours. Minimum age: 12 ($40) Continued on next page.

Trips include transportation; provided gear is detailed in trip listings. For ski/snowboard trips, you must be fitted for your gear at the Northwest Adventure Center prior to the day of your trip. Unless otherwise stated, lift tickets are not included.

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Adventures

Outdoor Recreation photo

The winter survival camping trip gets you outside in the elements safely. You’ll learn winter survival basics, leave-notrace camping, how to build a snow shelter and more in April’s trip. For the full trip description, turn to page 25.

Seattle Insider’s Tour Join us Sunday,

Ski-n-snowboard White Pass Let’s

March 24 for an insider’s view of Seattle. See the best parts of The University of Washington, Ballard, Fremont, Queen Anne, City Center, Pike Place and Safeco Field. While exploring the city, we’ll stop to visit the spots of Seattle that most pass by. The fee includes transportation to each spot as well as a guided tour with commentary of the quirky history. You’ll be given time to go to the Space Needle, the EMP and the Museum; entrance fees not included in the trip fee. ($60)

head for the snow and spend the day at White Pass Sunday, March 24! You can also rent cross-country skis or snowshoes. You’ll be fitted for your gear when you sign up for the trip (please specify what you need). Unless lesson package is purchased, lift tickets aren’t provided (but may be purchased online or at the mountain). ($50; have your own gear, $30; lesson package includes gear, lift ticket and lesson for $100)

Ski-n-snowboard at the Summit Tired of the rain? Head for the snow and spend the day at the Summit at Snoqualmie Saturday, March 30! Gear is provided; get fitted at the NAC. ($45; have your own gear, pay $25)

Ski-n-snowboard Stevens Pass Leave the rain behind for the slopes at Stevens Pass! Head to the snow Saturday, April 13. Gear is provided; go to the NAC to be fitted. ($50; bring your own gear, $30) 22

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • March 2013

Snowshoe Paradise Explore Mount Rainier’s Glacier Vista Sunday, April 7.

Guide, gear and instruction provided.

Difficulty: moderate to difficult; time: three hours; distance: three miles.

Minimum age: 12 ($40)

Snowshoe Reflection Lake The trail from Narada Falls to Reflection Lake provides a breathtaking experience of a winter snow-capped forest. Enjoy the view with us Saturday, March 30.

Guide, gear, instruction and transportation provided. Difficulty: moderate;

distance: 3.5 miles; elevation gain: 500 feet; time: 4 hours. Minimum age: 12 ($40)

Snow tubing Travel to one of Washington’s greatest tubing hills for a great day in the snow Saturday, March 23!

Dress for a day of playing in the snow, and get ready to go for a wild ride!

Tubing is a blast for all ages, so bring the entire Family. Snow tubes are provided. ($35; ages 6–12: $25; ages 5 and younger: $5)

Sol Duc Hot Springs Travel to the Olympic National Forest to take a soak in the Sol Duc Hot Springs.

There are three mineral hot spring soaking pools and one freshwater pool. Temperatures vary between the pools allowing you to find the perfect one for a relaxing soak. Make the trip with us Saturday, March 23. Each mineral pool is drained and cleaned nightly for the health and safety of all visitors. ($50; ages 4–12: $40; ages 0–3: $25) Continued on next page.

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Adventures

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*Offer ends 5/31/2012. New residential High-Speed Internet or existing residential Pure Broadband customers only. Services and offers not available everywhere. Price-Lock Guarantee Offer applies only to the monthly recurring charge for the listed service for sixty (60) consecutive months; excludes all taxes, fees, surcharges, and monthly recurring fees for modem/router and professional installation. Listed monthly recurring charge of $19.95 applies to CenturyLink™ High-Speed Internet with speeds up to 12 Mbps and requires subscription to a CenturyLink™ Home Phone with Unlimited Nationwide Calling plan. An additional monthly fee (including professional installation, if applicable) and a shipping and handling fee will apply to customer’s modem or router. Offer requires customer to remain in good standing and terminates if customer changes their account in any manner including any change to the required CenturyLink services (cancelled, upgraded, downgraded), telephone number change, or change of physical location of any installed service (including customer moving from residence of installed services). General – CenturyLink may change, cancel, or substitute offers and services, including Locked-In Offer, or vary them by service area, at its sole discretion without notice. Requires credit approval and deposit may be required. Additional restrictions apply. Terms and Conditions – All products and services are governed by tariffs, terms of service, or terms and conditions posted at www.centurylink.com. Taxes, Fees, and Surcharges – Applicable taxes, fees, and surcharges include a Carrier Universal Service charge, National Access Fee surcharge, a one-time High-Speed Internet activation fee, state and local fees that vary by area and certain in-state surcharges. Cost recovery fees are not taxes or government-required charges for use. Taxes, fees, and surcharges apply based on standard monthly, not promotional, rates. Call for a listing of applicable taxes, fees, and surcharges. Monthly Rate – Monthly rate applies while customer subscribes to all qualifying services. If one (1) or more services are cancelled, the standard monthly fee will apply to each remaining service. High-Speed Internet – Customer must accept High-Speed Internet Subscriber Agreement prior to using service. Download speeds will range from 85% to 100% of the listed download speeds due to conditions outside of network control, including customer location, websites accessed, Internet congestion and customer equipment. Private, Direct Connection and Speed Claims – Direct connection and consistency and speed claims are based on providing High-Speed Internet customers with a dedicated, virtual-circuit connection between their homes and the CenturyLink central office. Home Phone with Unlimited Nationwide Calling – Service applies to one (1) residential phone line with direct-dial, local and nationwide long distance voice calling from home phone, including Alaska, Puerto Rico, Guam, and U.S. Virgin Islands; excludes commercial use, call center, data and facsimile services (including dial-up Internet connections, data services, and facsimile; each may be billed at $0.10/minute), conference lines, directory and operator assistance, chat lines, pay-per-call, calling card use, or multi-housing units. Usage will be monitored for compliance and service may be suspended/terminated for noncompliance. An additional charge may be assessed to customer if usage consistently exceeds 5,000 minutes/mo. International calling billed separately. ©2012 CenturyLink, Inc. All Rights Reserved. The name CenturyLink and the pathways logo are trademarks of CenturyLink, Inc.

24

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • March 2013

Visit Pike Place Market/Ride the ducks You haven’t seen Seattle until you’ve seen it from a Duck! Take a land-andwater tour of Seattle with Coast Guardcertified maritime captains Sunday, March 31. Aboard an amphibious World War II vehicle, you’ll see downtown Seattle, Pike Place Market, historic Pioneer Square and Funky Fremont before splashing into Lake Union for a spectacular view of the city skyline, luxurious yachts and Sleepless in Seattle houseboats. Once that’s finished, you’ll have time to walk around Pike Place Market for some wonderful shopping and great food. ($45; ages 3–12: $35; ages 0–2: $30)

Westport bottom fishing Are you ready to get out on the open water and start hauling in fish? Join us on a chartered boat trip out of Westport, where the rockfish are always plentiful and lingcod are real fighters! Dress in layers and bring lunch, snacks and rain gear for

the Sunday, March 31 trip. Fishing gear is provided. ($130)

Whale watching Early spring brings the unique opportunity to view migratory gray whales in the calm, comfortable and protected waters of the Puget Sound. This three-hour boat trip Sunday, April 14 provides plenty of opportunities to see a variety of wildlife. ($60; ages 13 and younger: $50)

Winter survival camping trip Head to Reflection Lake in Mount Rainier National Park April 13–14 for an intermediate overnight trip to learn the basics of trip preparation, winter travel, shelter construction and winter survival basics, backcountry cooking and leaveno-trace camping. A mandatory pretrip class is Wednesday, April 10 at the NAC. Trip fee includes winter camping class, group gear (not including sleeping bag), park entrance and two camp meals. Minimum age: 18 ($75)

Outdoor adventure trip

Date

Cost

Details

Snow tubing

Saturday, March 23

$35

Ages 6–12: $25; ages 5 and younger: $5

Sol Duc Hot Springs

Saturday, March 23

$50

Ages 4–12: $40; ages 0–3: $25 Lessons package: $100; transportation only: $30

Ski-n-snowboard White Pass

Sunday, March 24

$50

Seattle Insiders Tour

Sunday, March 24

$60

Ski-n-snowboard the Summit

Saturday, March 30

$45

Transportation only: $25

Snowshoe Reflection Lake

Saturday, March 30

$40

Minimum age: 12 Ages 3–12: $30; ages 0–2: $30

Visit Pike Place Market/Ride the Ducks

Sunday, March 31

$45

Westport bottom fishing

Sunday, March 31

$130

Moonlight snowshoe Gold Creek Pond

Friday, April 5

$40

Minimum age: 12

Bungee jumping

Saturday, April 6

$135

Minimum weight: 90 lbs.

Explore Victoria, B.C.

Saturday, April 6

$100

Ages 5–11: $85; ages 0–4: $55

Military Appreciation Day at Crystal

Sunday, April 7

$45

Transportation only: $25

Snowshoe Paradise

Sunday, April 7

$40

Minimum age: 12

Winter survival camping trip

April 13–14

$75

Minimum age: 18

Ski-n-snowboard Stevens Pass

Saturday, April 13

$50

Introduction to single-track mtn biking

Saturday, April 13

$35

Minimum age: 12

Bike through the Skagit tulips

Sunday, April 14

$55

Minimum age: 12

Whale watching

Sunday, April 14

$60

Ages 0–13: $50

Especially accommodates people with exceptional needs

Whether your dream vacation revolves around sun, sand, snow or water, you can plan your next getaway at the 5th Annual Travel Fair. Brought to you by Leisure Travel Services, the event is at AFC Arena Wednesday, March 6, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Meet with industry vendors and Leisure Travel Services staffers to book the getaway of your dreams or get ideas and tips about planning your next vacation.

AFC Arena is located at 2275 Liggett Ave. at Lewis Main, next to Bowl Arena Lanes. For details, call 253-967-3085.

Tickets at a great price from Leisure Travel Services When you want to take in a great game in Seattle, head to Leisure Travel Services. As an authorized Ticketmaster location, you can purchase tickets for upcoming games at Century Link Field and Safeco Field to see Sounders FC and the Mariners in action.

LTS has limited tickets available to Sounders FC games; lower level south end seats are $25. Opening day is Saturday, March 2.

Want to catch a Mariner’s game?

Opening day is Monday, April 8, and ticket prices will be available soon. Salute to the Armed Forces is Saturday, April 13 ($32/$27/$13).

You can also find tickets to local attractions, concerts and more. Call 253-967-3085 for more information.

Compete in sporting clays

Preregistration is required for all trips; prices and schedule subject to change without notice. Gear and transportation included unless otherwise stated. Lift tickets for ski-n-snowboard trips aren’t included unless otherwise stated. Register through WebTrac (visit JBLMmwr.com) or at the Northwest Adventure Center at Lewis North. Confirm pick-up locations upon registration for the trips. Group rates and private trips are available; call for details. We’ll visit FRG meetings or unit functions to tell you about all of the great recreation and adventure options in the area.

More info: 253-967-6263 • JBLMmwr.com

Visit Travel Fair, plan a trip

Upcoming sporting clays fun shoots are Saturdays, March 2 and April 6 at the JBLM Skeet Range.

For details, call 253-967-7056 or visit JBLMmwr.com.

Popular with Families

JBLMmwr.com

25

Feelin’ good

ST. PATTY’S DAY RUN & IRISH CRAIC •

Good times for the entire community On Saturday, March 16, follow the proverbial rainbow to the MWR Fest Tent. While you won’t find a pot o’ gold at the end, you will find live music, dancing, food and Irish brew — it’s the Irish Craic!

The St. Patty’s Day Run & Irish Craic is open to the entire community, whether you raced in the 5K/10K fun run or not. So if you’re not a runner, come for the party!

The food and beverage tent opens at 2:30 p.m. Fill up on Irish bangers (sausages) and mash, and wash it down with an Irish brew.

Then celebrate a great Saturday with live music and dancing beginning at 4:30 p.m. Irish band Tiller’s Folly, plus Irish dancing featuring Scoil Rince Slieveloughane are sure to make you hit the dance floor. All ages 26

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • March 2013

are welcome to attend; 21+ with ID for brew.

There will be great door prizes given away throughout the event, so stop by and see if you have the luck o’ the Irish. Just for coming to the party, you’ll be eligible to win the grand prize of four tickets to a Seattle Seahawks 2013 regular season home game (race participants will receive two entries). You must be present to win; the grand-prize drawing is at 7:30 p.m.

If you want to run, it’s not too late to sign up. Register at JBLMmwr. com/races by noon Tuesday, March 5 to guarantee a race T-shirt. Preregistration is $15 for DoD ID card holders and $25 for guests. Dayof-race registration begins at 12:30 p.m. at the MWR Fest Tent. The fee

SATURDAY, MARCH 16 Photos by: Emiliano Hernandez, left Lional Kam, top Emiliano Hernandez, right

Known throughout the Pacific Northwest, America and Europe for their Americana–Folk–Celtic music, Tiller’s Folly is back at the St. Patty’s Day Run & Irish Craic. Grab a friend or two or someone from the party and head to the dance floor.

is $20 for ID card holders and $30 for guests.

Call 253-967-4768 for more information.

Watch the JBLM Basketball Championship You’re invited to an epic matchup between the Army and Air Force to determine the installation champion! The teams hit the hardwood for the Intramural Sports Basketball Championship game Wednesday, March 27 at Lewis North’s Wilson Sports and Fitness Center. Tip-off is at 6:30 p.m. There will be drawings for prizes throughout the game, including gift cards to Game Stop and Foot Locker, plus NBA video games.

For more information, SEE SPORTS & FITNESS ON page 30.

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27

Learning & earning

It’s tax time ... are you getting a refund?

By Mary Cron, JBLM Financial Readiness Program

I

f you receive a tax refund, what will you do with the money? Pay off bills? Save? Plan a Family vacation?

Tax season is viewed as being sometimes both a blessing and a curse. It’s a blessing when the tax refund brings in enough money to cover your additional holiday spending, but it can become a curse when the proper precautions aren’t taken. Improper research or misunderstanding of fees ends up costing taxpayers hundreds of dollars.

Things to watch for: Who can prepare your taxes: Recent changes in treasury regulations require that anyone preparing income taxes for compensation be registered with the IRS, complete a competency exam and take continuing education courses. An authorized preparer will have a Preparer Tax Identification Number and is generally required to provide e-file services.

Where to file: JBLM has two tax centers that are a benefit to military members. In short, more money stays in your pocket through the no-fees charged. There may be some returns that can’t be processed there due to the complexity of the case, but there’s no charge for them to review the case before referring you out. These centers can be reached at 253-967-1040 (Lewis Main, T-6069) and 253-982-6857 (McChord Field, Building 100). If you file your own taxes, save the cost of pur28

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • March 2013

Preparing your taxes is nothing to stress about — there are two tax centers at JBLM where you can get no-cost assistance in completing and filing your return.

chased software by using IRS FreeFile at irs.gov or the free service available through Military OneSource at MilitaryOneSource.com.

Fees to watch for: Tax preparation by the form: The more forms used, the more fees you’ll pay.

Tax Preparation by the hour: This is usually imposed when the case is more complex requiring more hours to research and complete.

Contingency fees: Treasury regulations prohibit tax preparers from charging contingency fees, such as a percentage of your expected refund, for regular income tax return preparation.

Once you have your taxes prepared, make sure you have a definite plan on

how your refund (if you’ll receive one) will be used. Decide before you receive it. If the plan is to pay off the holiday bills, have the bills laid out in order and ready to go. If part of your refund is for a future vacation, separate that part from the bulk of the refund and place it in a savings account that you don’t view often — out of sight, out of mind. When the vacation time comes around, the money will be there.

Get more tips on how to prepare for tax time, plus information on budgeting, debt reduction and more. Call Army Community Service at 253-967-1453 or Airman & Family Readiness Center at 253-982-2695 to schedule an appointment or register for an upcoming class.

It’s easy to save money on books at JBLM Thousands of great titles available at libraries, online There are thousands of books (plus magazines, videos and more) at JBLM libraries, not to mention countless electronic titles available online. You can access them all for free with your library card!

You may not know it, but you already have one — your library card is your military ID. All you need to do is “turn on” library services by stopping by the McChord or Grandstaff libraries to get set up.

Electronic titles are available from eight online sources including Air Force Digital Media Library, Army Digital Media Library (an AKO account is required) and Ebsco eBooks, which has fiction and nonfiction titles. My iLibrary has nonfiction downloads, and there are e-book sources just for prereaders, school-age youth and teens.

Take full advantage of library services day or night. Not only can you complete research or study in a quiet corner at either library, but you have online access to research material and your li-

The MWR Bookstore will meet or beat any book price on college textbooks!

Make your educational pursuit a little easier on your checking account with a quick stop by Stone Education Center, 6242 Colorado Ave., Room B144, at Lewis Main. The book store is open Monday–Thursday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Stop by or call 253-964-8185 for details.

Learn to crochet with free class at McChord Library

Apply now for military Family scholarship

You could win big for being environmentally friendly

Have you always wanted to learn to crochet? Now’s your chance! Join us at the McChord Library every Monday in March and learn how to crochet.

This four-part class will be held in the conference room at 5 p.m. You may register for the class online (go to JBLMmwr.com/libraries and click on the “Calendar of Events” button or call 253-982-3454.

Additionally, the McChord Library is hosting a teen glow-in-the-dark Easter egg hunt Friday, March 22. For more information, turn to page 14.

The School Liaison Office is excited to let you know of a local scholarship opportunity. Applications for the Fort Lewis Family Member Scholarship Fund will be accepted through Wednesday, April 10; download at FortLewisScholarship.com.

Family members of active duty Service Members, retirees and surviving Family members are eligible to apply.

Email FtLewisFamilyScholarship@hotmail.com for details.

For a list of other scholarships, visit JBLMmwr.com/cys.

Participate in the semi-annual JBLM Net Zero Competition and win up to $10,000 for your unit fund account!

To participate in Competition 1 (from April 1–Aug. 31), units should register

by Sunday, March 31. Fill out the packet at https://sustainablefortlewis.army.mil/ NZCompetition.asp and send to usarmy. jblm.imcom.list.dpw-edpr@mail.mil.

Your participation in this competition contributes to fewer tax dollars spent, a reduced environmental “bootprint” and progress toward JBLM becoming a Net Zero installation by 2020.

brary account 24/7. Visit JBLMmwr.com/ libraries for more information.

Find your college textbooks at a great price

JBLMmwr.com

29

Feelin’ good

SPORTS & FITNESS: Get fit at a JBLM gym or pool, or take your workout outside Serve up a win with intramural volleyball If you want to bump, set and spike your way to victory, attend the intramural volleyball information session Tuesday, March 12 at 2 p.m. at Soldiers Field House. The season begins Monday, April 1.

Pound pavement in crosscountry intramural sports league Love to run? Find out about intramural crosscountry as the Soldiers Field House information session Tuesday, March 26 at 2 p.m. At the meeting, you’ll also find out about recruitment for the 2013 Army 10-Miler Team. The cross-country season begins Wednesday, April 10.

Lifeguard positions available The JBLM Aquatics Branch is now hiring lifeguards. The starting rate is $9.75 per hour, and anyone with American Red Cross Lifeguard certification is welcome to apply. Apply at USAJobs.com.

For pool locations, hours and programming, visit the pool page at JBLMmwr.com. For details on the Aquatic Easter Egg Hunt, turn to page 14.

There’s so much more online!

With a visit to the Intramural Sports & Fitness pages at JBLMmwr.com, you can find out about fitness classes, trainers, the Civilian Fitness Program and upcoming events such as the SMASH! racquetball tourney.

If you want quick access to JBLM fitness class information, helpful health and fitness tips and more, like the new JBLM Aerobics & Fitness Facebook page at Facebook.com/JBLMAerobicsandFitness.

ABOUT INTRAMURAL SPORTS All DoD ID card holders not otherwise eligible for Youth Sports are invited to play intramural sports at JBLM. Teams may be formed at the unit level to compete for Commander’s Trophy Points, or you may sign up as open teams. For details, call 253-967-4768.

Providing dental care for military members, their families and retirees of all ages!

FREE

TEETH WHITENING FOR LIFE!*

A full-service dental office with convenient locations in

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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • March 2013

*FOR ALL NEW PATIENTS WITH COMPREHENSIVE EXAM, NECESSARY X-RAYS AND CLEANING!

Graham 253-875-6599 Lakewood 253-584-2250 Olympia/Lacey 360-459-1333

spencerfamilydentalwa.com

US Family Health Plan—a perfect fit!

Active duty family members, enjoy having your own civilian doctor.

US Family Health Plan is a TRICARE Prime option with special benefits.

FREE for active duty family members:  Free doctor visits  Free emergency room visits  Free urgent care visits  Free baby delivery in civilian hospitals

Plus discounts on eyeglasses, massage, acupuncture, naturopathy, vitamins and supplements

Now with locations near you—

Primary Care locations in King, Pierce and Thurston Counties

Learn more! 1 (866) 418-7346

Already have TRICARE Prime coverage? You can transfer to USFHP by phone.

Come to a meeting: www.facebook.com/USFamilyHealthPlan Visit us online: www.usfhpnw.org

The TRICARE logo and wordmark are registered trademarks of the TRICARE Management Activity. All rights reserved.

Scan your smart phone here to learn more

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Visit us at Facebook.com/ PioneerPacificHomes

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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus • March 2013