Bliss Happenings …

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 Sunday. To learn more, email 41gunnerfrsa@gmail.com.

DFMWR

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 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 Saturday 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 party
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo at Desert Strike Lanes! From 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday, 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 Wednesday. Join the group and help BOSP build a program to enrich the lives of 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. 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.

Lunch Rocks! half-day trips
Looking for a thrill? Southwest Adventure’s new 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:
• May 10: Sneed’s Cory, Franklin Mountains State Park
• June 14: Sneed’s Cory, Franklin Mountains State Park
• June 28: Sneed’s Cory, Franklin Mountains State Park
For each trip, 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 317-5618.

Mother’s Day brunch
Celebrate Mom 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 under. Reservations are required. Seatings run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Centennial is located at 11199 Sgt. E. Churchill St. at East Fort Bliss. To learn more, call 744-8427.

Rafting trip
Are you ready for the rapids? Join Southwest Adventure May 24 through 28 for a high-energy, multi-day rafting and camping adventure in northern New Mexico. We’re going where the water is, so the location is still to be determined, but wherever it is, it’s going to be wet! Ticket pricing will be determined by location and will cover transportation, equipment, guide services and all meals while in camp. 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.

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 and May 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. 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.

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.

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.

Go Youth

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 Wednesday. 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 Monday. 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 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.

FCC moving
Child, Youth and School Services’ Family Child Care program has a new home! The FCC program is now located in Bldg. 3505 Story Road in the Logan Heights housing area. The building was formerly used as the Logan Child Development Center Annex. The program phone number remains 568-4198. To learn more about the program, visit www.blissmwr.com/fcc.

Community

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 Friday from 1 to 4 p.m. and Saturday 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. To learn more, visit 755-4332, email or visit www.elpasotexas.gov/arch_museum.

Hueco Tanks slideshow
Hueco Tanks State Park and Historic Site is hosting a “Growing Up at Hueco Tanks” slideshow presentation Saturday 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.

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. 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. 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.

Alfresco! Fridays
The El Paso Convention and Performing Arts Centers will launch the 10th anniversary season of the celebrated concert series Alfresco! Fridays. The free concerts will begin its series this Friday and continue 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 Friday through Sunday. 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.

Kids to Parks
The El Paso Parks and Recreation Department will host National Kids to Parks Day May 19 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at McKelligon Canyon Park, 1331 McKelligon Canyon Rd. The Trailblazers program will offer outdoor activities, hiking, bird-watching and more. To learn more, call 544-0753.

Children’s Home walk/run
Lee and Beulah Moor Children’s Home will have its 10th annual Walk/Run for Families in Crisis June 2 at 8 a.m. at Sunland Park Racetrack and Casino. To learn more, call 544-8777.

All-airborne convention
Paratroopers of the Benavidez-Patterson “All Airborne” Division will have its Airborne Convention: Sun City “All Airborne Fiesta VI at Sunland Park Racetrack at the Wyndham El Paso Airport Hotel, 2027 Airport Road, July 4 through 8 beginning at 8 a.m. All current and former airborne-qualified personnel, family members and friends are invited. The event costs $75 a person. To learn more, call 240-8104 or email bp82cmdctr@bpaac.org.

Golf tournament
VFW Post 812 will have its sixth annual golf tournament May 12 at noon at the Underwood Golf Course at Fort Bliss. Register by Saturday. The first 36 four-person teams will be accepted. The cost is $75 per person or $300 per team. Cash will be awarded for first, second and third places, closest to the pin and longest drive and hole-in-one. Proceeds will benefit troops, community and post funds. To learn more, call 328-6591 or 562-2161.

Military Widows luncheon
The Society of Military Widows’ Desert Sun Chapter 30 will have a business luncheon today at 12:30 p.m. at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center. Reservations are required. Membership is open to military widows. To learn more, call 598-3835.

Purple Heart
Military Order of the Purple Heart, Chapter 393 will meet from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Saturday at 2608 Fort Blvd. The Purple Heart will be awarded to a Korean War veteran who was injured in 1953. To learn more, visit www.purpleheart.org.

Voting
The Texas secretary of state, Hope Andrade, will visit Fort Bliss to speak about voting at the Austin Room of the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center today at 10 a.m.

Private sector employment
The Army has selected the Hero 2 Hired (H2H) employment application/tool at www.H2H.jobs to provide one primary location where Soldiers of all components, veterans and family members can connect with private sector employment opportunities.

Road closures
The Texas Department of Transportation announced that Sunday through May 13 the Spur 601 ramp off Highway 54 will close completely for resurfacing. The intent is to detour traffic to Fred Wilson Avenue and then back on the spur at the Fred Wilson ramp. Loop 375 from Montana Avenue to Spur 601 will close nightly from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. Monday through May 13 so the hospital overpass girders can be put in place.

Veteran home, land loans
Texas veterans can take advantage of the Veterans Land Board’s low-interest rate loans to borrow as much as $417,000 to buy a home and $100,000 to buy land. To learn more, call 800-252-8387 or visit www.texasveterans.com.

Westside welcome
The Westside Welcome Club of El Paso will host a newcomers coffee event Friday at 441 Cross Canyon Place at 10 a.m. for free. To learn more, visit www.westsidewelcomeclub or call 433-9011 or 581-2314.

Small business awards
The Small Business Week awards luncheon will be today from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Wyndham Hotel at 2027 Airway Blvd. To learn more, call 6299-6704 or email dceballow@elpaso.org.

Edgar Park carnival
Edgar Park Elementary School, at 3601 Edgar Park Dr., is holding a carnival May 11 from 3:15 to 9 p.m., featuring food, fun, games and carnival rides for the whole family. To learn more, call 276-2777.

Food handling
A food handler class is scheduled for Friday and every first Friday of the month in Bldg. 21 at 9 a.m. Group scheduling with more than 15 people must be done 30 days in advance. To learn more, call the William Beaumont Army Medical Center’s Preventive Medicine at 742-2799 or 742-5313.

Nurses Week
Nurses at William Beaumont Army Medical Center will celebrate Nurses Week Monday through May 11 with daily activities. National Nurses Week focuses on recognizing the diverse ways America’s nurses – including the more than 800 working at WBAMC – work to save lives and improve the health of millions of individuals. Nurses will host a ceremony Monday at WBAMC and offer cake at WBAMC, the Soldier Family Medical Clinic and the SPC Hugo V. Mendoza Solder Family Care Center. Nurses will be selling raffle tickets Tuesday for a gift basket. Nurses will serve ice cream Wednesday at WBAMC. A name will be drawn for the raffle May 10. Organizers will host an awards ceremony at WBAMC May 11.

Armed Forces Day Health Fair
The William Beaumont Army Medical Center and Veterans Affairs will host the 13th annual Armed Forces Day Health Fair May 19 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the SPC Hugo V. Mendoza Soldier Family Care Center, Building 11335 SSG Sims Street. Admission is free and open to the public. The fair will feature more than 60 booths with health care education and information.

Sports

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 today 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. Friday 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. 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 Monday through May 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. Strong BANDS. Fitness Fun Day runs from 9 to 11 a.m. May 12 at Sgt. Joshua W. Soto Physical Fitness Center. 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. 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. 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.

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.

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 all. All competitors will receive T-shirts; sizes are guaranteed to the first 100 registered. Early registration runs through close of business May 16. Register online at www.active.com or in person at Sgt. Joshua W. Soto or Stout physical fitness centers. Early registration is free for active-duty Soldiers who register in person at Soto or Stout. Following the race, athletes may receive complimentary post-race massage from Massage Envy Spa. 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, contact the appropriate command sports coordinator or call 744-5790:
• 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

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