Bliss Happenings …

OL-Skool Adventure: The Fort Bliss-based OL-Skool 4x4 Adventure is hosting a weekend off-road and camping trip for the Fort Bliss and El Paso community May 12 just north of Las Cruces. The Doña Ana Trail is about 5 miles north of Las Cruces and is more of a “large playground” than a trail, consisting of several trails that loop around and interconnect. Ranging in elevation from approximately 4,100 to 4,800 feet, the trail takes you in and around the foothills of the Doña Ana/Organ Mountains. Much of the trail consists of sandy arroyos with several steep hill climbs and descents, and a few scary off-camber obstacles. The trail is just less than 10 miles long and takes four to six hours to complete and it has mesquite bushes that will rub against your vehicle. The trail ranges from easy to moderate. All participating vehicles must have good ground clearance. The group meets on the west side of El Paso at the bottom of Transmountain and I-10, at the Shell Gas Station at 9 a.m., and will return (for day run only) at 6 p.m. or (if camping) noon the next day. All participants must bring their own food, water, camping gear, etc. To learn more, call Duane Shaw at 744-2695 or 861-1486. Courtesy Photo

Bliss Briefs
www.bliss.army.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.

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 the 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 register, visit bulldoguniversity.eventbrite.com. 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

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.

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:

• Today: 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

Tickets cost $10 and include transportation, park admission fees, guide services and required equipment. Advance purchase is required. Buy tickets at the Southwest Adventure Outpost in Biggs Park, Leisure Travel Services (ITR) at 1743 Victory Ave., or the satellite ITR location in Sgt. Joshua W. Soto Physical Fitness Center, 20751 Constitution Blvd. To learn more, call (915) 317-5618.

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 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:

• Today 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. Register for classes online at www.blissmwr.com/resilience or call 569-5500 to learn more.

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 Friday, 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 Saturday, May 5 and June 2. For $15 per person or $50 per family, campers will enjoy games in the sand, camping under the stars, hamburgers and hotdogs and any camping equipment required. The fee covers park admission, as well. Campers will provide their own transportation and meet at the park. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Buy tickets at the Southwest Adventure Outpost in Biggs Park, Leisure Travel Services (ITR) at 1743 Victory Ave., or the satellite ITR location in Sgt. Joshua W. Soto Physical Fitness Center, 20751 Constitution Blvd. To learn more, call 317-5618.

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.

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. Tuesday, enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet featuring traditional Mexican fare for $8.95 per person. The Centennial is located at 11199 Sgt. E. Churchill St. at East Fort Bliss. To learn more, call 744-8427.

Cinco de Mayo party
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo at Desert Strike Lanes! From 6 to 8 p.m. May 5, take advantage of $1 pricing on 12-ounce Bud Light drafts, limited free snacks and cake at Strike Lounge. Desert Strike Lanes is located at 2949 Carter Road at Fort Bliss. To learn more, call 568-6272.

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, 11316 Staff Sgt. Sims Street at East Fort Bliss. The next meeting is May 9. Join the group and help BOSP build a program to enrich the lives of single parents. Bring your voice and your 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.

Backpack the Gila Wilderness
Gather up your gear and get ready for a weekend of adventure with a backpacking and camping trip to New Mexico’s Gila Wilderness. Join Southwest Adventure May 11 through 13 and enjoy a weekend in the nation’s first designated wilderness area. Enjoy the cooler mountain air and tall pines of the Gila National Forest. Tickets cost $40 per person and cover transportation, park entry fees, equipment and guide services. Advance purchase is required. Buy tickets at the Southwest Adventure Outpost in Biggs Park, Leisure Travel Services (ITR) at 1743 Victory Ave., or the satellite ITR location in Sgt. Joshua W. Soto Physical Fitness Center, 20751 Constitution Blvd. To learn more, call 317-5618.

Dog adoption event
Speed Dating for Dogs … Finding Your Soulmutt is coming May 12. Join FMWR for our first-ever pet adoption event. Bring the family out to Freedom Crossing to find your next soulmutt. Let the Animal Rescue League of El Paso help you find the soulmutt of your dreams. The event begins at noon, but plan to arrive at least 20 minutes prior to the start time to receive your nametag and “speed dating” scorecard. You will chat with each dog’s handler and have a chance to ask questions about the pooch while checking out your family’s “chemistry” with each four-legged friend. These one-on-one conversations will last five minutes each. At the end of five minutes, a bell will ring and you’ll have one minute to fill out your scorecard and note whether you would like to see that dog again for final consideration in your decision to adopt. If two prospective owners wish to adopt the same dog, the prospective owner who scored the dog highest will adopt the dog. If the prospective owners scored the dog equally, an Animal Rescue League employee will flip a coin to determine who adopts the dog. If you wish to adopt and qualify to do so, simply pay the $125 adoption fee. Fort Bliss Veterinary Services will also be on-site to answer questions and showcase their on-post services. To learn more, call 588-8247 or visit www.blissmwr.com, www.animalrescue.petfinder.com or www.arlep.org.

Go Youth

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. To learn more, call 568-6272.

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. 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 to 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 youths 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 ages 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.

Mommy and Me swim
Mommy and Me swim classes will begin May 12 at Replica Aquatic Center. Children as young as 6 months can join in the fun, which requires a parent in the water. The classes cost $15 for a four-week session and meet from 8:30 to 9 a.m. each Saturday. Replica Aquatic Center is located at Bldg. 5035 Dickman Road. To learn more, call 568-7431.

Youth swim lessons
Replica Aquatic Center offers youth swim lessons. The lessons are offered in eight-week sessions and cost $35 per child. The next session will begin May 14. Lessons will be offered at the following times:

• Preschool: 1 to 1:45 p.m.

• Advanced Preschool: 2 to 2:45 p.m.

• Level I: 3:30 to 4:15 p.m.

• Level II/III: 4:30 to 5:15 p.m.

• Level IV: 5:30 to 6:15 p.m.

The class meets each Monday, Wednesday and Friday through May 30. Pre-registration is required. Registration begins May 7. Replica Aquatic Center is located at 5035 Dickman Road. To learn more, call 568-7431.

Tackle football
Registration for Team Bliss Youth Sports tackle football begins Tuesday and runs through July. Tackle football is open to boys and girls ages 8 through 11. Registration costs $65 for the first child and $55 for each additional family member. The season is anticipated to run from August through November. This is a competitive league and the 50 percent participation rule is not in effect. Parents must attend the El Paso Parks and Recreation sportsmanship class before a child is eligible to participate in this Youth Services league. The class costs $15, and the certification card costs $5. Participants must be members of Child, Youth and School Services. To register with CYSS, contact Parent Central at 568-4374. Members must have a current physical on file at the time of registration to ensure participation. 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 toddlers 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 Sunday. 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 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 North Loop Dr., 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 a 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. Saturday 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 Saturday 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. Saturday, 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.

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 Saturday through July 28. Its opening celebration will be Saturday 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 Association, 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 Monday. To learn more, email retired Sgt. Maj. Garlin “Lee” Crooks at glcrooks@aol.com or retired Command Sgt. Maj. Gary L. Hall at ghall2@elp.rr.com.

Environment award nominations
Directorate of Public Works – Environmental is accepting nominations for the 2012 Earth Day Awards for Environmental and Energy Excellence competition. Deadline to submit is Tuesday. To learn more, call 568-5396 or 568-3533.

Red Cross volunteerism
The American Red Cross office at William Beaumont Army Medical Center needs a receptionist Tuesdays and Thursdays and is looking for short-term assistance with the Summer Youth Program and with administration of the adult volunteer program. Basic word processing and spreadsheet skills are a plus. To learn more, call 742-2483.

Rebuilding Together
Rebuilding Together El Paso Inc. is looking for teams of volunteers to help complete the unskilled labor (painting, caulking windows and doors, yard work and trash removal) for more than 20 homes Saturday. To learn more, call 832-7010 or visit www.rebuildingtogether.org.

Blue Star Families essay contest
During April, the month of the military child, Blue Star Families invites military kids everywhere to share their family’s favorite book for a chance to win great prizes. Blue Star Families is hosting an essay contest for military children in kindergarten through fifth grade. Any child with a parent or sibling in active duty, Reserve or National Guard service can enter by answering the question, “What is your favorite book to read aloud as a family and why?” From the 100-word-or-fewer entries, Blue Star Families will select four winners at the end of the month for prizes including a Barnes & Noble Nook, a set of 20 new books, a webcam, a certificate for a free story from Be There Bedtime Stories. Each entry should be sent to contests@bluestarfam.org before 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time Saturday.  To learn more, visit http://bluestarfam.org/essaycontest.

May ghost tours
Our Concordia Cemetery ghost tours continue May 5 from 9 to 11 p.m. Meet us at the Yandell entrance at 8:30 p.m. dressed in Mexican revolution or western attire for Cinco de Mayo fun. Our tours are always $10. Join us for the real city of the dead. Concordia is reputedly the most haunted and active cemetery in El Paso. Then, on May 12 and 13 from midnight to 3 a.m., join us for a chance to become the ghost hunter and learn about Concordia’s dark side. Bring your equipment and maybe you can capture the shot of the night. Meet us at the Yandell entrance at 11:30 p.m. May 12. Admission is $10. Adults only. Call 373-1513 or email help@ghosts915.com for reservations.

Airborne convention
Paratroopers of the Benevidez-Patterson “All Airborne” Division will hold the Airborne Convention: Sun City “All Airborne” Fiesta VI at 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 include Buckcherry and Dead Sara May 26 P.O.D. May 27 and 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. Teams must not exceed five members. Registration fee is $50 (included in the fee is 15 pounds of chili beef). Each cook-off team member handling 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.

El Paso Speedway
El Paso Speedway Park is hosting a “welcome home to our troops” event Friday evening, during which two veterans will be honored. There will also be fireworks and a presentation of colors. Races will include sprint cars, street stocks, limited X-mods and super trucks. Regular admission is $10, but military, law enforcement, seniors, those with a university ID and children 11 to 15 gain admission for $7. Children 10 and younger get in free. To learn more, call Gilbert Aranda at 791-4000, ext. 6211.

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 Friday 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. Tuesday, 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. Manicures will be provided by students from Tri-State Cosmetology Institute. 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.

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 DoD 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 at 820 Marshall Road or call 568-5563.

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 $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.

2012 Armed Forces Day
Armed Forces Day 2012 comes to Fort Bliss May 19 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Biggs Park. The event is free and open to the public. Activities include static equipment displays, a demonstration by the military police working dog teams, entertainment by the 1st Armored Division Band, chili cook-off, health fair, car show, East Fort Bliss build-up tour, and food and drink concessions. Armed Forces Day is an open house event that provides you the opportunity to meet with servicemembers and learn about the equipment they use in support of this nation. To learn more,, call the Fort Bliss Public Affairs Office at 568-4505.

Book sale
The Friends of the Northeast Library are holding a book sale May 4 from 1 to 4 p.m. and May 5 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Richard Burges Library on 9600 Dyer St. To learn more, call 759-2406.

Hueco Tanks art tour
The El Paso Museum of Archaeology is hosting a tour of the exhibit “Watercolor Paintings of Rock Art at Hueco Tanks,” May 12 at 2 p.m. Mares will present Apache images on the rocks at Hueco Tanks as well as his personal insights and interpretations of other rock art images during this free tour. He is vice-president of the Chihuahuan Desert Education Coalition and former Hueco Tanks lead park ranger for 15 years. To learn more, visit 755-4332, email guidamr@elpasotexas.gov or visit www.elpasotexas.gov/arch_museum.

First Thanksgiving celebration
The first Thanksgiving celebration reenacts the first Thanksgiving in this area by the Spaniards and Native Americans in 1598. Costumed actors and dancers portray the Native Americans and Spaniards. The colorful reenactment strives to preserve local history and raise awareness of the historic event. The event will take place Saturday at 5 p.m., at San Elizario Plaza, 1500 Main St., in San Elizario, Texas. To learn more, call 562-1735.

Hueco Tanks slideshow
Hueco Tanks State Park and Historic Site is hosting a “Growing Up at Hueco Tanks” slideshow presentation May 5 from 7 to 8 p.m. at the site, 6900 Tanks Road #1 in El Paso. Irma Escontrias-Sanchez, granddaughter of Silverio and Pilar Escontrias, will give a slideshow talk on Escontrias family history in the park’s outdoor amphitheater. The Escontrias family ranched at Hueco Tanks from 1898 to 1956. Participants should dress for cool weather. Reservations are required.  There will be a $2 fee for participants ages 5 and older. For reservations or to learn more, call 857-1135 or 849-6684.

Watercolorists luncheon
The El Paso Rio Bravo Watercolorists are celebrating their 40th anniversary with a luncheon at the Great American Land & Cattle Co. at on 701 S. Mesa Hills Dr., May 16 at 11:30 a.m. The RBW will also celebrate the installation of its new signature members and this year’s executive board. For reservations or to learn more, call 630-9947.

Museum writing workshop
The El Paso Museum of Archaeology is hosting the “What Do YOU Think It Means? A Writing Workshop” Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon at the museum. Mónica Gómez presents this two-hour workshop where participants learn and write about images created by great Western artists and then explore and write about the images in the museum’s exhibit of Hueco Tanks rock art. This workshop is free and open to anyone who can write. Participants must register in advance, and space is limited. If space is still available, staff will continue to take reservations up to the start of program.  To learn more, call 755-4332.

Museum of art scholarships
The El Paso Museum of Art announces its youth scholarships for museum summer art classes. The El Paso Museum of Art received generous awards from the JP Morgan Chase Foundation, totaling $10,000. The awards will fund 100 scholarships for El Paso area youth to attend summer art classes.  Each scholarship, for one class, will be used to cover the cost of tuition and supplies. Interested students may apply by filling out the scholarship form and submitting it to the El Paso Museum of Art as soon as possible. Qualified applicants will receive scholarships in order of requests until all 100 are distributed. A complete listing of classes is available online at www.ElPasoArtMuseum.org/classes.asp. Download the application from our website at www.elpasotexas.gov/art/_documents/Scholarship%20Application.pdf. To learn more, call 532-1707 ext. 27 or visit www.ElPasoArtMuseum.org.

Miss Fort Bliss
“Salute the Troops! – A Patriotic Platform,” the military-inspired Miss Fort Bliss beauty pageant, launches an effort to propel military-affiliated women into the spotlight while raising awareness for military charities. The Teen Division (ages 13 to 17) and Miss Division (women ages 18 to 27) compete in three categories: interview, swimwear and evening gown, with the goal of winning a $1,000 teen scholarship while fundraising for a military-related cause or charity of their choosing. Prize includes $1,500 cash for adult division and a package of freebees including a trip and chance to model during Paris Fashion Week. The event is scheduled for June 30 at the Camino Real Hotel. This competition is open to all patriotic female American citizens or current visa holders ages 13 to 27 residing in the El Paso County area. Height and weight restrictions do not apply. Women who are married or have children are highly encouraged to compete. Military-related charities and organizations are encouraged to send a list of programs available for representation to contact@missfortbliss.com. Prospective contestants can call 820-9963 or visit www.missfortbliss.com.

Small business forum
The 2012 Governors’ Small Business Forum is scheduled for May 24 from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Marriott Hotel at 1600 Airway Blvd. The premier small business event in the Lone Star State is hosted through the collaboration of the Texas Governor’s Office, The Texas Workforce Commission and the El Paso Hispanic Chamber of Commerce with the goal of providing the borderland business community an interactive business summit that will feature diverse seminars on important topics to take our local businesses to the next level. Cost is $75 for an all-day pass and $20 for each individual session. Sponsorship and booth opportunities are available. To learn more, call Lorena Ramos at 566-4066 or lramos@ephcc.org.

Law enforcement product demo
Though the vendor displays portion of the 10th annual Law Enforcement Equipment and Technology Expo is finished, range and product demonstrations at Range 11, McGregor Range, are today from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event is open to all local, state and federal law enforcement and military; it is not open to the public. All personnel must show proper credentials for access. To learn more, visit http://sogexpo.blogspot.com.

Alfresco! Fridays
The El Paso Convention and Performing Arts Centers will launch the 10th anniversary season of the celebrated concert series Alfresco! Fridays May 4. The free concerts will take place every Friday evening on Arts Festival Plaza in downtown El Paso, from 6 to 8 p.m., but in recognition of the anniversary celebration, concert hours will be extended to 9 p.m. during June. Concerts will not take place on holiday and street festival weekends, May 25, June 29 and Aug. 31. Fridays features salsa, cumbia, reggae, classic rock, blues and other popular musical genres. Attendees are reminded that no outside food, beverages or pets are allowed. For a complete list of performers, visit www.alfrescofridays.com or call 534-0600.

T or C Fiesta
The Truth or Consequences Fiesta is celebrating the city’s centennial this year with music, a parade, a rodeo and more, held around town May 4 through 6. The theme of the fiesta is 100 Years of Southwestern Hospitality. Other events include volleyball and basketball tournaments, junk boat and duck races, a skateboard contest, children’s fishing derby and a poker tournament. For a full list of events, locations and times, visit www.torcfiesta.com

Sports

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 Sgt. Joshua W. Soto Physical Fitness Center. To learn more, call 744-5793. 

Southwest Mayhem
Set your sights on victory and join Southwest Adventure for the Southwest Mayhem Paintball Tournament Saturday at the Biggs Paintball Field.  Enjoy high-energy competition, food, door prizes and entertainment for the whole family. The tournament will be played in a five-man team format. The entry fee of $50 per player includes CO2 or compressed air, equipment rental and two cases of paint. Register by Monday and get an extra case of paint free! The registration deadline is Friday. Biggs Park is located at 11388 Sergeant Major Blvd. at East Fort Bliss. To learn more, call 317-5618.

Sundown mountain biking
Hit the trails at Franklin Mountains State Park and join Southwest Adventure for an evening of high-octane fun with sundown mountain biking. Don’t have a bike? Borrow one from us! Upcoming mountain biking excursions are scheduled for May 3 and June 21. Tickets cost $10 and include transportation, park admission fees, guide services and equipment. Advance purchase is required. Buy tickets at the Southwest Adventure Outpost in Biggs Park, Leisure Travel Services (ITR) at 1743 Victory Ave., or the satellite ITR location in Sgt. Joshua W. Soto Physical Fitness Center, 20751 Constitution Blvd. To learn more, call 317-5618.

Army Ten-Miler Qualifier
Fort Bliss’ qualifying run for the Army Ten-Miler will be held at 6 a.m. May 4 at Sgt. Joshua W. Soto Physical Fitness Facility at East Fort Bliss. The run is open to all active-duty military assigned to Fort Bliss, family members and civilians holding a military ID. The top five active-duty male and female finishers will qualify for the Fort Bliss Ten-Miler team. Family members and civilian ID card holders will not be eligible for team membership. Age groups include 19 and younger, 20 to 29, 30 to 39, 40 to 49, and 50 and older. Registration for the run begins at 5 a.m. Registration is free for active-duty military and costs $10 for all others. To learn more, call 744-5790.

Fitness Week
Join Team Bliss Sports, Fitness and Aquatics for Strong BANDS Fitness Week May 7 through 12. It all starts with a punch card; get yours at one of our participating facilities – Sgt. Joshua W. Soto Physical Fitness Center, Stout Physical Fitness Center, Logan Heights Physical Fitness Center and the Tennis Club and Fitness Zone. May 7 through 11, attend at least one eligible group fitness class per day and get your card punched. Saturday, complete the entire Strong BANDS Fitness Fun Day and redeem your completed card to collect your band and free T-shirt, and enter into our prize drawing. Strong BANDS. Fitness Fun Day runs from 9 to 11 a.m. May 12 at Sgt. Joshua W. Soto Physical Fitness Center. The program consists of four mini classes designed to introduce participants to new forms of fitness: indoor cycling, RIPPED, Zumba and vinyasa yoga. Strong BANDS Fitness Week is part of Army MWR’s Strong BANDS program. Learn more about the program and enter the Strong BANDS Every Day in May Prize Give-a-Way Challenge at www.armymwr.com/strongbands. For a schedule of qualifying classes, visit blissmwr.com. To learn more, call 744-5789.

Combatives championship
Fort Bliss Combatives will host the 2012 Fort Bliss Combatives Championship June 20 through 22 at Sgt. Joshua W. Soto Physical Fitness Center, Bldg. 20751 Constitution Avenue on East Fort Bliss. This is a Commander’s Cup event. The tournament is open to male and female active-duty servicemembers assigned to an Army unit at Fort Bliss. Registration will take place from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. June 19 at the combatives facility in Bldg. A493 Sapper St. at East Fort Bliss. Competition will begin at 8 a.m. June 20 and will follow standard rules. Round 2 will begin at 8 a.m. June 21 and will adhere to intermediate rules. The final round of competition will observe advanced rules and will begin at 6 p.m. June 22. Spectators are welcome and entry is free. The 2012 Fort Bliss Combatives Championship is sponsored by USAA and BodyBuilding.com. To learn more, visit www.facebook.com/fortblisscombatives or call 744-2467.

Combatives team tryouts
Fort Bliss and the 1st Armored Division is currently forming the installation combatives team to compete at the Army championships. All skill and experience levels are welcome to train and try out for the team. Training takes place at the installation combatives facility, Bldg. A493, from 6 to 7:30 a.m. each Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Other training times are available for those unable to attend these sessions. The team travels to compete in both civilian and military tournaments. To learn more, call 744-2467. Like the Fort Bliss Combatives program on Facebook at www.facebook.com/fortblisscombatives.

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