Bliss Happenings …

Bliss Briefs
www.bliss.army.mil

Debt Collection
This is a debt collection notice for Spc. Christopher Michael Vega. All services under Vega’s name should be put on hold. All those with debts to be collected under the name of Vega or for information regarding collections, call 1st Lt. George L. Whitfield at 741-1946 or 804-441-0323.

This is a debt collection notice for Sgt. James E. Dutton. All services under Dutton’s name should be put on hold. All those with debts to be collected under the name of Dutton or for information regarding collections, email 1st Lt. Nicole Carter at nicole.m.carter@mail.mil.

ALR unit funds
Active-duty units and mobilized Guard and Reserve units deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and in support of homeland security while serving in remote areas are authorized unit funds through the Army Level Requirements, ALR, Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation unit fund program. Units will receive $2 per Soldier per month beginning the month of deployment. Contact the Fort Bliss Family and MWR Financial Management Office by calling 568-4444 to receive an ALR information package.

AER campaign
Assistance provided to the Fort Bliss community in 2011 was $4 million in loans and grants. Last year, the Fort Bliss community donated less than $150,000. The goal of the Army Emergency Relief fund is $200,000, a small amount compared to what is given each year. To learn more, visit www.aerhq.org.

Iron Focus, NIE traffic
The 1st Armored Division is conducting their largest exercises since arriving at Fort Bliss now through May 24. During Operation Iron Focus and the Network Integration Evaluation, large groups of military vehicles will move in and out of training ranges at McGregor and Doña Ana ranges and White Sands Missile Range. This may mean long delays along Highway 54 and at the entry gates into Fort Bliss. Motorists should expect heavy military traffic starting Monday with Mondays and Fridays thereafter as the heaviest traffic days. To learn more, visit www.facebook.com/army.bliss.

Bulldog reintegration
Third Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, will host “Bulldog University Reintegration Conference May 19 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center. The conference will consist of various workshops that focus on the challenges that families face when transitioning from deployment to reintegration and how they can support their Soldiers through their transition. Childcare will be provided for free for the first three hours and afterwards for $2 per hour. Children must be registered with CYSS to receive care. To learn more, visit bulldoguniversity.eventbrite.com to register for the event. Registration ends May 6. To learn more, email 41gunnerfrsa@gmail.com.

Green to Gold
The Army Green to Gold program is designed to offer enlisted Soldiers in the Army the opportunity to earn commissions as Army officers. Briefings are Wednesdays at Bldg. 641 at 10 a.m. The program offers enlisted Soldiers two ways of earning a baccalaureate degree: Green to Gold Scholarship Option for Soldiers who are considering leaving active duty to attend college and Green to Gold Active Duty Option for Soldiers who want to remain on active duty and attend college. The Green to Gold Active Duty Option program is a two-year program that provides eligible, active-duty enlisted Soldiers an opportunity to complete a bachelor’s degree or obtain a two-year master’s degree and be commissioned as an Army officer upon receiving the degree. One of the requirements is to have general technical score of 110 or higher. If you do not have a GT score of 110, then you can take the FAST class by registering at Bldg. 405 at East Fort Bliss. Classes are conducted in Room 8 of Bldg. 614. To learn more about the Green to Gold program, call 747-6692 or email al.pacheco@utep.edu.

Orientation, welcome
Team Bliss has put together an interactive orientation to welcome and inform newly arrived Soldiers and family members of the many family support resources available at Fort Bliss and the surrounding community. All Soldiers are required to in-process through the Fort Bliss Welcome Center. The staff at the welcome center can assist Soldiers and families 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To learn more, call 569-4227.

DFMWR

DFAC hours
The Area 1 dining facility at Bldg. 20626 holds breakfasts from 7:30 to 9 a.m. and lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, dinner from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Mondays through Wednesdays and Fridays and 3:30 to 5 p.m. Thursdays, brunch from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. weekends and holidays and supper from 4 to 5:30 p.m. weekends and holidays. The Area 2 dining facility at Bldg. 20226 holds breakfast from 7:30 to 9 a.m. and lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, dinner from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Mondays through Wednesdays and Fridays and 3:30 to 5 p.m. Thursdays, brunch from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. weekends and holidays and supper from 4 to 5:30 p.m. weekends and holidays. Area 3 dining facility at Bldg. 11316 holds breakfast from 7:30 to 9 a.m. and lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, dinner from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Mondays through Wednesdays and Fridays and 3 to 4:30 p.m. Thursdays, brunch from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. weekends and holidays and supper from 5 to 6:30 p.m. weekends and holidays. Area 4 dining facility at Bldg. 906 holds breakfast from 6:30 to 8:30 a.m., lunch from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and dinner from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and brunch from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and supper from 5 to 6:30 p.m. weekends and holidays. Area 1 and Area 3 dining facilities are closed Saturday and Sunday but will resume normal weekend hours April 28. To learn more, call 744-7928 or 744-7924.

Lifeguards
Anyone interested in becoming a lifeguard in one of Fort Bliss’ swimming pools should call 568-7431.

Soldier sponsorship
Are you a Soldier who wants to mentor and assist inbound Soldiers and their families who are new to Fort Bliss? Can you show them the ropes and get them acquainted with the post? Sponsorship training is available from 3 to 4 p.m. the second Thursday of every month. To learn more or to set up unit training, call 568-1132.

Excess furniture
Family and MWR sells tables, chairs, bed frames, sofas and more from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. every Friday at the Property Book Office warehouse in Bldg. 643 on Taylor Road. All items are sold “as-is” and refunds or exchanges are not permitted. The PBO warehouse accepts cash, Visa or Mastercard only, and is closed holidays and training holidays. To learn more, call 568-3779 or 568-4501.

Dinner on a Dime
Let the Financial Readiness Program at Army Community Service teach you how to prepare great food on a shoestring budget. Dinner on a Dime focuses on making quick, healthy, affordable meals. Classes take place at the Milam Youth Activity Center, 10960 Haan Road at East Fort Bliss. The class is free, but pre-registration is required. Register online at www.blissmwr.com/frp or by phone at 569-4ACS (4227). Class is scheduled for April 26. Classes take place from 9 to 11 a.m. Free child care will be provided for children registered with Child, Youth and School Services. To learn more, call 569-4ACS (4227).

Spouse employment orientation
Are you a military spouse looking for employment? Attend the employment orientation at Army Community Service. The orientation takes approximately 1.5 hours and a lot of good information will be provided about free services available to you. We provide resume (civilian and federal) assistance and help you get ready for interviews. We have certified federal job search trainers to assist you. Orientations are held from 10 to 11:30 a.m. every Monday and Wednesday at ACS, located in Bldg. 2494 on Ricker Road at West Fort Bliss. Advance registration is required. To learn more or to register, call 569-5838.

Lunch Rocks! half-day trips
Looking for a thrill? Southwest Adventure’s Lunch Rocks! program provides one. These Thursday trips run a half-day each and visit some of the best climbing locations in the country, conveniently located near Fort Bliss.

Upcoming trips include:
• April 26: Sneed’s Cory, Franklin Mountains State Park
• May 10: Sneed’s Cory, Franklin Mountains State Park
• June 14: Sneed’s Cory, Franklin Mountains State Park

Buy tickets at any Leisure Travel Services (ITR) location: Bldg. 1743 on Victory Avenue, the Freedom Crossing kiosk, or the satellite location in Sgt. Joshua W. Soto Physical Fitness Center, Bldg. 20751 on Constitution Boulevard. To learn more, call 433-9666.

Wagon Trails Market
Shop for produce and food items, crafts, services and more at the Wagon Trails Market at Old Fort Bliss. From 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. every Friday from Friday through Sept. 28 (except those associated with a federal holiday weekend), head to the Old Fort Bliss Replica at the corner of Pershing and Pleasonton for a fun family shopping experience. Vendors and entertainers of all sorts are welcome to contact the replica’s education program manager for more information on setting up at the market. To learn more, call 568-4518 or 588-8482.

Resilience training
Are you a tennis ball or an egg? Do you bounce back or do you crack? Learn to bounce back when the stressors of everyday life start getting you down by attending the ACS Resilience Training. The training will enhance your effectiveness and well-being by teaching you the skills to build mental toughness, to learn what your character strengths are, to build strong relationships, and to hunt the good stuff, focusing on the positive rather than the negative. Upcoming sessions include:

• Monday through April 26 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• June 25 through 28 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

ACS also offers four-week Resilience Training classes, which meet once a week. The next four-week classes are scheduled for April 10, 17 and 24 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Register for classes online at www.blissmwr.com/resilience or call 569-5500 to learn more.

Mental agility training
Learn to think flexibly and accurately and take other perspectives with mental agility training, offered by the Army Community Service Resilience Program. The 1.5-hour course will be offered today, with morning sessions from 9 to 10:30 a.m. and evening sessions from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Pre-registration is required; register online at www.blissmwr.com/resilience. To learn more, call 569-5500.

Administrative Professionals Day
We all know who really runs the office … celebrate your favorite administrative professional with lunch at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center, and enjoy free cake from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday. To learn more, call 744-8427.

Free car care clinic
Learn basic auto care – including changing oil, checking tire pressure and more – at the Relocation Assistance Program Auto Care Clinic. These free clinics are held at the Auto Crafts Center, Bldg. 820 on Marshall Road. Upcoming classes include April 27, July 17 and Oct. 16. Classes run from 1:30 to 4 p.m. each day. Pre-registration is required; register online at www.blissmwr.com/relocation. To learn more, call 569-4227.

Extended DIY hours
The Auto Hobby Shop at Auto Crafts has new Sunday hours. Do-it-yourselfers can now work on their vehicles from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each Sunday. Beginning Tuesday, the Auto Hobby Shop will also be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each Tuesday. These new hours do not affect the full-service side of the Auto Crafts shop, which will remain closed Sunday. The new hours have been set on a trial basis, and are subject to change. To learn more, call 568-7280.

Camping at White Sands
Load up your family and head out to experience one of nature’s wonders when you join Southwest Adventure for a family camping excursion to White Sands National Monument in New Mexico. Trips are scheduled for April 28, May 5 and June 2. Tickets must be purchased in advance and can be obtained at any Leisure Travel Services (ITR) location: Bldg. 1743 on Victory Avenue, the kiosk at Freedom Crossing, and the satellite location at Sgt. Joshua W. Soto Physical Fitness Center, Bldg. 20751 on Constitution Boulevard at East Fort Bliss. To learn more, call 744-2415.

High Stakes Bingo
Claim your share of more than $12,000 in cash and prizes at High Stakes Bingo May 5 at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center’s Metro Bingo Bar. Bingo will pay out at least $500 on every winning game during regular-session bingo, plus a $5,000 jackpot. Buy-ins cost $60 each for 13 games and include one Mexican dinner buffet. The first 100 guests to buy in receive VIP check-in and free admission to any Wednesday or Thursday regular bingo session. High Stakes Bingo is limited to the first 200 players – get your buy-in early to ensure your place. To learn more, call 744-8427.

Go Youth

Build it with SKIES
Interested in building, architecture and history? Join SKIES Unlimited and explore in the hands-on “Let’s Build It” class. Learn how to build structures, catapults, motorized vehicles and buildings using LEGO bricks. Children will develop problem-solving skills, enhance critical thinking and learn teamwork through the building process, all while having fun. Classes meet Thursday at Bldg. 131. All students must be enrolled with CYSS to participate. Register online at https://webtrac.mwr.army.mil/webtracblisscyms.html. To learn more, call 569-7732 or 568-5544.

Military child appreciation
In recognition of the Month of the Military Child, Desert Strike Lanes will offer bowling specials for all military children each Saturday and Sunday in the month of April. All military children, with proper ID, will receive a free game for each game they buy Saturday and Sunday and April 28 and 29. To learn more, call 568-6272.

MYAC block party
Celebrate the nation’s youngest heroes with Milam Youth Activity Center at the second annual Month of the Military Child Block Party from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday. The MYAC youth invite their Fort Bliss neighbors, friends, families and children of all ages to enjoy free fun, games and face painting as well as information on children’s services, activities, health and safety and a free cookout. Activities include jumping balloons, a dunk tank and more. Don’t miss the military vehicle static displays and the military working dog demonstration from 2 to 3 p.m. A teen dance from 7 to 10 p.m. will round out the day’s activities. Milam Youth Activity Center is located at Bldg. 10960 on Haan Road at East Fort Bliss. To learn more, call 744-2449.

Baby Bubble Hour
Baby Bubble Hour offers children ages 4 and younger a chance to enjoy the water in a peaceful setting. No older children, including older siblings, are allowed in the water during this time. An open swim hour for toddlers, Baby Bubble Hour is held every Saturday from 8:30 to 10 a.m. at Replica Aquatic Center, Bldg. 5035 on Dickman Road. To learn more, call 568-7431

Home-school PE group
Beginning Tuesday, Youth Sports will host a home-school physical education group at the YouthPlex, Bldg. 195 on Chaffee Road. The group will meet from 9 to 9:50 a.m. each Tuesday and Thursday for elementary-aged children or from 10:20 to 11:10 a.m. for middle- and high-school-aged children. Participation is free and open to children registered with Child, Youth and School Services. To learn more, call 568-2617.

Saturday child care
Saturday care for CYSS-registered children is shared between Logan and Milam facilities. Logan Child Development Center and Milam Child Development Center share care for CDC-age children, while the Logan School-Age Center and Milam School-Age Center alternate weekends for school-age children. To make reservations for Saturday care, call the Logan CDC at 568-3989, Milam CDC at 744-7879 or Parent Central Services at 568-4374.

Range safety
The Fort Bliss Rod and Gun Club offers a range safety course for children ages 6 to 17. The class is held at 1 p.m. every second and fourth Saturday on a monthly basis at the Rod and Gun Club and is free of charge. Children must complete this course before being allowed outside on the ranges. To learn more, call 565-4867 or 568-2983.

Extended care available
Extended child care is available to single Soldiers and dual military families who have a mission-related task through the Child, Youth and School Services Family Child Care program. FCC will verify the duty requirement. Examples of extended care events include but are not limited to CQ, staff duty, field problems, a special event on a weekend (i.e. Veteran’s Day Parade) or care on a federal holiday. No payment is rendered by the Soldier. An Army subsidy pays the provider directly for the extended care hours. Note: This program is not for families who have a non-military spouse. Army Family Child Care is located in Bldg. 1743 on Victory Avenue. To learn more, call 568-4198.

Parent Central training closure
Both the main Parent Central Services office in Bldg. 1743 and the satellite Parent Central Services office in Bldg. 503B will close for training from 10 to 11:30 a.m. the second Tuesday of each month. To learn more, call 568-4374.

After-school pickup
The CYSS Middle School and Teen Program now offers after-school pickup service at even more middle and high schools in the El Paso area. The service is free and open to all CYSS-registered youths in sixth through 12th grades. MST offers after-school pickup service at the following locations: Nolan Richardson Middle School, HE Charles Middle School, Terrace Hills Middle School, Canyon Hills Middle School, McArthur Middle School, Ross Middle School, Parkland Middle School, Harmony Science Academy, Andress High School, Parkland High School, Chapin High School, Austin High School and Burgess High School. Parents must register their children for this program before the children can be picked up by CYSS. To register your child for the after-school pickup program, call 568-5437.

Bowl with your hero
Desert Strike Lanes invites you to bowl with your hero for Mother’s Day. Mothers bowl one game free when accompanied by a child from noon to 7 p.m. May 12. Shoe rental is not included. Desert Strike Lanes is located at Bldg. 2949 on Carter Road. To learn more, call 568-6727.

Victorian tea
In celebration of Mother’s Day, the Old Fort Bliss Replica requests the pleasure of your company at a Mother and Daughter Open House and Victorian Tea May 12 from 2 to 4 p.m. Experience the museum’s historic ambiance while you take part in a fun social event with refreshments and fantastic photo opportunities. Guests are invited to bring their daughter, son, mother or a friend. The recommended attire is summer dress with gloves and, if desired, a hat. The event is free, but reservations are required by the pre-registration deadline of May 9. Seating is limited. Reservations must be confirmed with the event coordinator. Reserve your seat by downloading the reservation form from www.blissmwr.com/oldfortbliss and returning it to the replica or emailing it to oldfortblissmuseum@gmail.com. The Old Fort Bliss Replica is located at Bldg. 5054 on the corner of Pershing and Pleasonton roads. To learn more, call 568-4518.

SKIES open house
SKIESUnlimited will host an open house from noon to 3 p.m. May 19 at the SKIES Gymnastic Center, Bldg. 131 on Doniphan Road. Enjoy fun and games and exhibitions from all SKIES programs. To learn more, call 569-7732 or 568-5544.

Sports summer camps
Team Bliss Youth Sports offers youth sports and fitness summer camps designed to give young athletes the opportunity to improve their skills, have fun and learn from excellent coaching staff. All camps run five days and include free lunch and a T-shirt, with the exception of the free Mental Toughness camp.

• Football under the Lights: This coed camp for youths ages 8 to 15 will run from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. June 11 through 15 and costs $35.

• Basketball: These camps for youths ages 7 to 15 will run June 11 through 15 and costs $35. Coed pee-wee basketball camp for youths ages 7 to 10 will run from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m., boys’ basketball camp for ages 11-15 will run from 8 to 11 a.m. and girls’ camp for ages 11 to 15 will run from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

• Soccer: This coed camp for children ages 8 to 15 will run from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. June 18 through 22 and costs $35.

• Volleyball: This coed camp for youths ages 10 to 16 will run from 8 a.m. to noon June 25 through 29 and costs $35.

• Start Smart: This coed camp for children ages 3 to 5 will run from 9 to 11 a.m. July 9 through 13 and costs $20.

• Baseball: This coed camp for youths ages 8 to 15 runs from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. July 16 through 20 and costs $35. The baseball camp offers technique, world-class fun and is a proven resource to help develop novice and elite competitors. The camp will focus on fundamental skills and principles that are common in every game at every level.

• Mental Toughness: This coed camp for youth ages 14 to 18 will run from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. July 18 through 20 and is free. The camp is limited to 20 participants.

• Sports and more: This coed camp for children age 6 to 10 will run from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. July 23 through 27 and costs $35.

Children must be registered with Child, Youth and School Services to participate in Youth Sports’ sports and fitness summer camps. To register with CYSS, call Parent Central at 568-4374. To learn more, call 568-2617.

Community

Veteran job fair
The Texas Veterans Commission, in partnership with the Veterans Business Association, is sponsoring a veteran job fair Friday from 9 to 11 a.m. at 1359 Lomaland Dr. More than a dozen employer representatives will be available to accept applications from El Paso-area veterans and their family members. To learn more, call 887-2440 or 594-7022.

Aggie Muster
All current, former and future Texas A&M University students and their families and guests are invited to the Texas Aggie Muster Saturday at 6 p.m. at the El Paso Club, located in the Chase Bank Building in downtown El Paso. The event honors Texas A&M students from the greater El Paso area that have passed away in the past year as well as all former students that were killed in action as members of the U.S. armed forces. The event includes a buffet dinner, formal program and valet parking. For ticketing information, email the club president at Kristen.cox@checkpnt.com or call 731-1185.

Junior Ranger Day
Chamizal National Memorial celebrates National Junior Ranger Day and Earth Day Saturday. Events include the memorial’s new water table, a puppet show, games, crafts, face painting and a swearing in of official junior rangers. Also on Saturday will be a free cancer awareness fair from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. followed by a Beatles tribute concert. To learn more, call 317-2087 or 532-7273 or visit www.nps.gov/cham.

WSMR roadblocks
White Sands Missile Range roadblocks will be set on Headquarters Avenue three quarter miles north of Skeet Range and a half mile south of the El Paso Gate and at the intersection of Range Road 3 and Range Road 19 between 8:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The El Paso Gate will be closed at this time, and individuals requiring access to WSMR should use the Las Cruces Gate. To learn more, call 575-678-1178 or visit the WSMR Public Affairs Office Facebook page.

Party for the Planet
The El Paso Zoo at 4001 E. Paisano Dr., will host special Earth Day exhibits and activities Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Zoo admission is $10, $7.50 for active-duty military and spouses with IDs and ages 60 and older, $6 for children ages 3 to 12 and free for zoological society members and ages 2 and younger. To learn more, call 521-1850 or visit elpasozoo.org.

Motorcycle run
The second annual El Paso USO Chapter 598 Benefit Run is April 29. Registration runs from 10:30 a.m. to noon at Barnett Harley Davidson and the last bike in is at 4 p.m. at American Legion Post 598 at 13000 Horizon Blvd., Horizon City, Texas. To learn more, call 907-306-9115.

24-hour weekend chaplain
Fort Bliss has a 24-hour weekend chaplain for urgent matters. The location will be at William Beaumont Army Medical Center between the Bradley Building and the ER. To contact this chaplain for all urgent matters, call 637-4265.

Instaflix
Bringing home the latest movies and entertainment got easier with the premiere of the Army and Air Force Exchange Service’s Instaflix video kiosks at more than 250 locations in the United States. Each kiosk offers a selection of 600 to 800 titles. Rental prices range from $1.20 for DVDs and $1.49 for blu-ray discs per night. Regardless of format, no membership is required to rent. Rentals are due back the next business day by 6 p.m. To learn more, visit www.shopmyexchange/exchangestores.

Price matching
The Exchange offers a price match guarantee. Their price match is guaranteed for 14 days on any item originally purchased at the Exchange. To learn more, visit www.shopmyexchange.com/CustomerService/priceMatch.htm.

QuickBooks class
The Small Business Development Center at El Paso Community College is offering the QuickBooksPro for Small Businesses training program. Sessions will be held Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. beginning on Tuesday at the EPCC Academic Services Center, Building B, Room 520. Participants will learn the basics in tracking revenue, managing expenses, payroll processing, inventory and more. Registration fee is $350, which includes a student manual. Pre-registration is required. To learn more, call 831-7742 or visit www.elpasosbdc.biz.

Books are GEMS
Books are GEMS is a nonprofit organization started in honor of Grace Elizabeth Madriles, GEM, who passed away in a car accident. The mission of the organization is to increase childhood literacy in the El Paso area. The organization has given away nearly half a million books. Any child who visits the facility, inside the Compass Bank building at 7744 N. Loop, may take five free books; each teacher may take 25 free books. The group also sponsors other programs, including summer reading camps for children who are struggling readers and offers workshops for parents to teach them how to make reading more fun for their children. To learn more, call 845-KIDS (5437) or visit www.booksaregems.org.

Days of Remembrance
The 15th Sustainment Brigade “Wagonmasters” are hosting the Holocaust Days of Remembrance scheduled for Wednesday from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center with the theme “Choosing to Act: Stories of the Rescue.”

Global Youth Service Day
The Global Youth Service Day, billed the largest service event in the world, has slated its inaugural 5K and one-mile walk for Saturday at Washington Park on 200 Washington St. The theme this year is bringing awareness to human trafficking. The event benefits the Southwest Key Unaccompanied Minors Programs and includes refreshments, snacks, door prizes, music, games, and car and motorcycle show. To learn more, visit www.raceadventuresunlimited.com/04-21-2012/Global-Youth-Service-Day-5K-Run-1-Mile-Walk/487.

Art show
The Crossland Gallery, at 500 W. Paisano Dr., announces the opening of the annual Western Impressions Art Show and Sale. The show opens Friday and continues through May 26. Award winners will be announced at the opening gala reception Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. To learn more, call 534-7377 or email office@elpasoartassociation.com.

Walk Like MADD
EPCC is scheduled to host a 5K walk benefit from 8 to 11:30 a.m. April 28 at El Paso Community College Valle Verde Campus at 919 Hunter Dr. Participants can register in advance by visiting walklikemadd.org or they can register the day of the event from 8 to 8:30 a.m. Cost is $20 for those ages 21 and older; $15 for those ages 6 to 20; and is free for those ages 5 and younger. To learn more, call 779-1987.

Prescription Take Back Day
Team Bliss and the Drug Enforcement Administration are giving the public an opportunity to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs April 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Those wishing to get rid of prescription drugs may take them for disposal to Freedom Crossing, Fort Bliss Commissary, Soldier Family Care Center and William Beaumont Army Medical Center. The service is free and anonymous. To learn more, visit www.dea.gov.

Neon Desert competitions
For this year’s Neon Desert Music Festival, two competitions will precede the May 26 event. April 28, bands and DJs from around the Southwest will battle it out for a spot on the Neon Desert lineup. The event will be held at Tricky Falls and is open to all ages. Winners will be crowned based on crowd and judges’ votes. Prizes include $1,000, $500 and $250 cash for art supplies for the first-, second- and third-place winners, respectively, two tickets to Neon Desert 2012 for each team member and a spot in the art exhibit at the all-day festival. Submissions are being accepted through Friday.

Concordia ghosts
Concordia Cemetery Ghost Tours holds a tour May 5 from 9 to 11 p.m. The tour meets at the Yandell Entrance at 8:30 p.m., and guests are encouraged to dress in Mexican Revolution or western attire in celebration of Cinco de Mayo. There will be another tour May 12 from midnight to 3 a.m. that meets at the Yandell Entrance at 11:30 p.m. Tours cost $10. Children 13 and older are welcome. To learn more, call 373-1513 or email help@ghosts915.com.

Sunset tour
Hueco Tanks State Park and Historic Site at 6900 Hueco Tanks Road #1 in far east El Paso, hosts a sunset tour from 6 to 9 p.m. Visitors will hike around West Mountain, the largest of the rock formations at Hueco Tanks. Guides will point out prehistoric pictographs, native plants and their uses and wildlife. The tour will be strenuous and include scrambling. Participants should wear sturdy shoes and bring water and a flashlight. Reservations are required. Participation costs $2 for ages 5 and older. To learn more, call 857-1135 or 849-6684.

Chamizal piñatas
Chamizal National Memorial is hosting the El Paso Piñata Extravaganza April 28 through July 28. Its opening celebration will be April 28 from 4 to 7 p.m. To learn more, visit www.nps.gov/cham.

Scholarship competition
The El Paso Sergeants Major Association is now accepting applications for scholarship grants for the current academic year. Applicants must be dependent family members of active-duty or retired enlisted (any U.S. military branch) residing in El Paso or the surrounding communities. They also must be graduating high school seniors with a B average or better. Those interested in applying should send a #10 self-addressed stamped envelope to the El Paso Sergeants Major Associating, P.O. Box 6050, Fort Bliss, TX 79906-0050. An application form and letter detailing requirements will be sent to the applicant. The deadline for applications to be received is April 30. To learn more, email retired Sgt. Maj. Garlin “Lee” Crooks at contests@bluestarfam.org before 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time April 28. To learn more, visit http://bluestarfam.org/essaycontest.

Airborne convention
Paratroopers of the Benevidez-Patterson “All Airborne” Division will hold the Airborne Convention: Sun City “All Airborne” Fiesta VI 8 a.m. from July 4 through 8 at the Wyndham El Paso Airport Hotel at 2027 Airway Blvd. All current and former airborne-qualified personnel, family members and friends are invited. Admission is $75 a person. To learn more, call 240-8104.

KLAQ Balloonfest
The 27th annual KLAQ International Balloonfest is slated for May 26 through 28, starting each morning from Santa Teresa Country Club Golf Course. The event includes mass balloon launches, balloon rides, water rides, vendors and live concerts nightly. Headliners: Buckcherry and Dead Sara May 26; P.O.D. May 27; Hellyeah May 28. Tickets are on sale now. To learn more, call 544-9550 or visit klaq.com.

2012 Chili Cook-Off
The El Paso Sergeants Major Association is hosting the 2012 Chili Cook-Off at Biggs Park May 19 jointly with Armed Forces Day. The event is open to the public for tasting at a price of $2 to taste all participating teams’ chili. Event participation requirements: Teams must not exceed five members; $50 registration fee (included in the fee is 15 pounds of chili beef); each cook-off team member handing food must have food-handler’s card. To learn more, call retired Command Sgt. Maj. Dale B. Thompson at 821-6945 or 539-3821.

Single parent group
Better Opportunities for Single Parents, a new program at Fort Bliss, hosts meetings the second Wednesday of every month at the Combat Aviation Brigade Dining Facility, Bldg. 11316 on Staff Sgt. Sims Street at East Fort Bliss. Join the group and help BOSP build a program to enrich the lives of single parents. Bring your voice and concerns. Discuss issues, plan events and provide support to other single parents. The program is open to active-duty military, DoD/DA civilians and dual-military families who are in a single-parent situation due to TDY, deployment, separate duty stations or other reasons. To learn more, call the single parent liaison at 569-5500.

Framing classes
Learn from certified instructors how to professionally frame artwork, diplomas or certificates. Framing Bliss offers framing classes every other Saturday from 8:45 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The next classes are scheduled for Saturday, May 5 and 19 and June 2 and 16. Classes are open to Department of Defense ID card holders and their guests and cost $30 per person or $25 each for two people. Class fees cover all required materials and instruction. Patrons must register and pay for classes by the Friday before the class date. Special arrangements can be made to offer classes for groups with four or more people. To learn more, visit Framing Bliss in Bldg. 820 Marshall Road or call 568-5563.

Community overview
Learn about Army Community Service resources and what the program offers to the community during the ACS Community Overview. A session will be held Monday from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at the Family Resilience Center, Bldg. 250 on Club Road. To learn more, call 569-5500.

AFTB Basket Bingo
Have fun, take a shot at winning beautiful Longaberger baskets and help raise money for a great cause, all at the same time: Armed Family Team Building Basket Bingo takes place April 27 at Army Community Service, Bldg. 2494 on Ricker Road. Doors open at 5 p.m. and games begin at 6 p.m. Tickets cost $15 in advance and are available until capacity is reached. Ticket pricing includes admission and a slice of pizza, drink and chips or a baked item. Bingo winners receive Longaberger baskets filled with gifts; drawings and door prizes for other items will also take place. Proceeds benefit the AFTB child care and incentive program. To learn more, call 569-5500.

Cinco de Mayo buffet
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with a taste of El Paso’s local flavor at the Cinco de Mayo Fiesta Lunch Buffet at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center. From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 1, enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet featuring traditional Mexican fare for $8.95 per person. The Centennial is located at Bldg. 11199 on Sgt. E. Churchill Street at East Fort Bliss. To learn more, call 744-8427.

Military spouse appreciation
Military spouses, you take the cake, so visit the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center May 11 to pick up a free slice of cake during lunch hours from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Centennial Banquet and Conference Center is located at Bldg. 11199 on Sgt. E. Churchill Street at East Fort Bliss. To learn more, call 744-8427.

Martini and a Manicure
Pamper yourself with Martini and a Manicure May 11 at 4:30 p.m. at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center. For $10, kick off the weekend in style as you receive a manicure and one choice from our menu of carefully crafted specialty martinis. Additional martini selections may be purchased as well. Manicures will be provided by students from Tri-State Cosmetology Institute. Martini and a Manicure is a great way to relax after a hard week’s work. All guests must be 21 or older – no children are allowed. Advance tickets are on sale now at www.ticketbully.com. The Centennial Banquet and Conference Center is located at Bldg. 11199 on Sgt. E. Churchill Street at East Fort Bliss. To learn more, call 744-8427.

Mother’s Day brunch
Celebrate motherhood with an elegant champagne brunch May 13 at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center. Offerings include a spectacular breakfast buffet and a selection of lunch favorites highlighted by a carving station. An assortment of vegetables and side dishes, salad bar and dessert round out the experience, which also features complimentary champagne, wine and mimosas. Brunch costs $18.95 for adults and $9.50 for children 7 to 11, and is free for children 6 years and younger. Reservations are required. Seating runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Centennial is located at Bldg. 11199 on Sgt. E. Churchill Street at East Fort Bliss. To learn more, call 744-8427.

Suicide intervention training
Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training, or ASIST, is a two-day interactive workshop that provides an opportunity to explore your experiences with and attitudes about suicide. In this training you will learn how to understand the needs of a person at risk of suicide, learn suicide first aid, recognize the warning signs of suicide, and learn what community resources are available. Upcoming classes are scheduled for May 15 and 16 and June 5 and 6. All classes take place at the Family Resilience Center, Bldg. 250 on Club Road at West Fort Bliss. Register for classes online at www.blissmwr.com/asist. To learn more, call 569-5500.

Outpost grand opening
Southwest Adventure, the Fort Bliss outdoor recreation program, will host a grand opening Saturday for the new Southwest Adventure Outpost at Biggs Park at East Fort Bliss. The free event begins at 11 a.m. Can you handle the challenge? Test yourself with a laser tag tournament, climbing tower challenge, paintball target shot challenge and skills challenge, all free of charge, with prizes for the first-place laser tag team and first-place male and female in each skills challenge. Enjoy free use of Tango Tower, discounted laser tag and paintball, free snacks and refreshments and $500 in door prizes. The event is sponsored by Omni Financial and Viva Powersports. To learn more, call 317-5618.

Tower Day
Reach new heights during Tower Day at Biggs Park. Enjoy free unlimited use of Tango Tower May 19 in observation of Armed Forces Day. June 17, enjoy unlimited use of the tower for just $6 per person. The Tango Tower is a 50-foot tall, six-sided structure with more than 20 different high elements, giving participants a multitude of choices. On Tower Day, there are no age restrictions and no reservations are required. All needed equipment is provided. Biggs Park is located at 11388 Sergeant Major Blvd. at East Fort Bliss. To learn more, call 317-5618.

Armed Forces Day bowling
Salute the troops with an Armed Forces Day bowling special at Desert Strike Lanes. May 19, all servicemembers in uniform bowl one free game. This special rate is good all day long – from 10:30 a.m. to 1 a.m. Shoe rental is not included. Desert Strike Lanes is located at Bldg. 2949 on Carter Road. To learn more, call 568-6272.

Sports

2012 track championship
Lace up your running shoes and get ready for the 2012 Fort Bliss Track Championship May 15 through 17, presented by Team Bliss Sports, Fitness and Aquatics. The meet is open to active-duty Soldiers, family members 18 and older, and DoD/DA civilians. Entry is free for active-duty and costs $5 per event entered for all other runners. Races begin at 6 p.m. each day. Registration begins at 4 p.m. each day and must be completed no later than 30 minutes before the race in which you are competing. To learn more, visit www.blissmwr.com/intramurals or call 744-5790.

2012 Armed Forces Day Triathlon
Join MWR Sports for the 2011 Armed Forces Day Triathlon, presented by USAA, May 19. The race begins at 7 a.m. at Replica Aquatic Center. The triathlon is now part of the Southwest Challenge Series. The 2012 Armed Forces Day Triathlon consists of a 400-meter swim, a 15-mile bike route and a 5-kilometer run. Entry is open to everyone. All competitors will receive T-shirts; sizes are guaranteed to the first 100 registered. Register online at www.active.com or in person at Soto or Stout physical fitness centers. To learn more, call 744-5790 or 744-5793.

Intramural softball league
The Fort Bliss Intramural Softball League will begin play the week of June 4. The league is open to active-duty military assigned to Fort Bliss. Players must compete with their units. This is a Commander’s Cup league. A mandatory coaches’ meeting will be held at 6 p.m. May 23 at Sgt. Joshua W. Soto Physical Fitness Center. All coaches must attend and bring a letter of intent. To learn more, call 744-5790 or:

• Independent league: 568-5198 or 568-6722
• 1-1 AD and 4-1 AD:  744-5800
• 2-1 AD, 3-1 AD and CAB: 744-5793
• 11th ADA: 568-7318

Weight room closed
The Logan Heights Physical Fitness Center weight room is currently closed until further notice to facilitate the replacement of weight room equipment. The installation is scheduled for completion by Friday. To learn more, call 568-5198.

Women’s softball league
The Fort Bliss Women’s Softball League will begin play June 8. The league is open to active-duty military assigned to Fort Bliss, family members 18 year of age and older, and DoD/DA civilians. All games are played on Fridays.League participation is free for active-duty Soldiers and costs $15 each for all other players. A preseason clinic will be held at 6 p.m. May 30 at Soto Physical Fitness Center. To learn more, call 744-5793.

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