Bliss Happenings …

Bliss Briefs
www.bliss.army.mil

Debt notice
This is a debt collection notice for Capt. Bruce Clark. All services under Clark’s name should be put on hold. All those with debts to be collected under the name of Clark or for information regarding collections, call Capt. Ashley D. Smith at 973-441-3904 or email her at.

This is a debt collection notice for Spc. Jason Kyle Edens. All services under Edens’ name should be put on hold. All those with debts to be collected under the name of Edens or for information regarding collections, call 2nd Lt. Jonathan Jones at 741-1753 or 828-400-9376, or email jonathan.d.jones144.mil@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.

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

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:

• Today: 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.

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

Dog adoption event
Speed Dating for Dogs … Finding Your Soulmutt is coming Saturday! Join Family and MWR for its first-ever pet adoption event. Bring the family out to the splash pad at Freedom Crossing to find your next soulmutt. Let the Animal Rescue League of El Paso help you find the pet of your dreams. The event begins at noon, but plan to arrive at least 20 minutes prior to the start time to receive a 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 score a dog 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. For 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.

Beef and Burgundy
An Army tradition has returned! Every Wednesday night, enjoy Beef and Burgundy at the Golden Tee. For $14.95 per person, enjoy beef, chicken or fish with all the sides and trimmings. The meal includes a salad bar and assortment of desserts as well as complimentary wine. Dance the night away with weekly entertainment. The Golden Tee is located at Underwood Golf Complex, 3200 Coe Ave. in the Logan Heights housing area. To learn more, call 568-1116.

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 2949 Carter Road. To learn more, call 568-6272.

Rafting trip
Are you ready for the rapids? Join Southwest Adventure May 24 through 28 or June 8 through 10 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.

Father’s Day brunch
Treat your dad to a hearty Father’s Day brunch at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center June 17. Enjoy a wide selection of breakfast and lunch favorites, a carving station fit for a king, a dessert bar and more, all served with complimentary champagne, mimosas or wine. Brunch costs $18.95 for adults and $9.50 for children ages 7 to 11; children ages 6 and younger eat free. Seatings run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and reservations are required. The Centennial is located at 11199 Sgt. E. Churchill St. at East Fort Bliss. For information or reservations, call 744-8427.

Family resilience training
Learn to bounce back from whatever life throws your way with the Active Military Families Resilience Training offered by Army Community Service. The next training is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 23. Active Military Families Resilience Training is offered to families with children ages 3 to 12 and will take place at the Family Resilience Center, 250 Club Road at West Fort Bliss. Registration is now open at www.blissmwr.com/resilience and is limited to the first 10 families to enroll. Enhance your effectiveness and well-being by learning the skills to build mental toughness, learning what your character strengths are, building strong relationships and learning how to hunt the good stuff, focusing on the positive rather than the negative. To learn more, call 569-5500.

Weekend specials
Enjoy great weekend breakfast specials every Saturday and Sunday at the Golden Tee. For $8.95, enjoy an 8-ounce ribeye steak with two eggs cooked to order, hashbrowns or grits, buttered toast and coffee. For a taste of El Paso flavor, grab a bowl of menudo with all the seasonings, buttered French bread and coffee – all for $6.95 while supplies last. The Golden Tee is located at Underwood Golf Complex, 3200 Coe Ave. in the Logan Heights housing area. To learn more, call 568-1116.

Spouse employment orientation
Are you a military spouse looking for employment? You don’t have to search for a job on your own. Attend the Employment Orientation at Army Community Service.  The orientation will take approximately 1.5 hours and a lot of good information will be provided about free services available to you.  Learn how the Employment Readiness Program and Workforce Solutions Upper Rio Grande can assist you.  We provide resume (civilian and federal) assistance and help you get ready for that dreaded interview. Seeking and applying for a federal job can be intimidating and overwhelming.  We have certified federal job search trainers eager to assist you.  If anything, use us as an additional resource to help you get employed. Orientations are held from 10 to 11:30 a.m. every Monday and Wednesday at ACS, located at 2494 Ricker Road at West Fort Bliss. Advance registration is required. To minimize distractions, the Employment Readiness Program encourages clients to make child care arrangements with the Main Child Development Center or Logan Heights CDC. ERP will provide you with a free voucher that will pay for the care of your children. To learn more or to register, call 569-5838.

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, 11335 SSG Sims St. Admission is free and open to the public. The fair will feature more than 60 booths with health care education and information.

Excess furniture
Family and MWR sells excess furniture – including tables, chairs, bed frames, sofas and more – from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. every Friday at the Property Book Office warehouse at 643 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.

Martini and a Manicure
Pamper yourself with Martini and a Manicure Friday 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 a 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 is located at 11199 Sgt. E. Churchill St. 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 Comunity Overview. A session will be held Monday from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at the Family Resilience Center, 250 Club Road. To learn more, call 569-5500.

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, 250 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. Enjoy unlimited use of the tower for $6 per person June 17. 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.

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 St. at East Fort Bliss. 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 Friday through Sunday 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.

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, 820 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. The Auto Hobby Shop will also be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every 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.

Go Youth

East Fort Bliss CDC open
If you live on East Fort Bliss or the east side of El Paso and are looking for child care, take note: East Fort Bliss Child Development Center has officially opened its doors for business and is welcoming new patrons. The new facility accommodates 338 infants, toddlers and preschool-aged children. It is conveniently located near the Constitution gate and Sgt. Joshua W. Soto Physical Fitness Center at the intersection of Constitution and Kasserine. All children must be registered with Child, Youth and School Services for child care services. To learn more, call Parent Central Services at 568-4646.

FCC moving
Child, Youth and School Services’ Family Child Care program has a new home! The FCC program is now located at 3503 Story Road in the Logan Heights housing area. The building was formerly used as the Logan Child Development Center Annex. The program phone number is now 568-8840. To learn more about the program, visit www.blissmwr.com/fcc.

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

Mommy and Me swim
Mommy and Me swim classes will begin Saturday 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 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.

Parent Central training closure
Both the main Parent Central Services office in 1743 and the satellite Parent Central Services office in 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.

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, 5035 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, 195 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 now located at 3503 Story Road in the Logan Heights housing area. To learn more, call 568-8840.

Community

Robert Earl Keen
Country music troubadour Robert Earl Keen, as part of the four-part free Summer Concert Series “Let Freedom Sing,” will play at Freedom Crossing Saturday at 7 p.m. To learn more, visit www.freedomcrossingatfortbliss.com.

Military Spouse Appreciation Day
In honor of Military Spouse Appreciation Day, which is Friday, Fort Bliss Army Community Service will honor military spouses with a fun-filled half day of classes including beading bracelets, decorating cupcakes, transplanting flowers and more. The event gives spouses a chance to break from the stressors that come with everyday life in a military family, as well as socialize and bond with other spouses in a friendly setting. The event takes place Friday from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Family Resilience Center at 25 Club Road. To learn more, call Eileen McCormick at 569-5486.

Stamp out hunger
The United Way of El Paso County will join forces with the National Association of Letter Carriers Saturday to help Stamp Out Hunger across El Paso County. Now in its 20th year, the Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive will benefit the West Texas Food Bank/El Pasoans Fighting Hunger. El Pasoans are encouraged to leave a sturdy bag containing non-perishable foods, such as canned soup, canned vegetables, pasta, rice or cereal next to their mailbox prior to the time of regular mail delivery Saturday. Letter carriers will be collecting non-perishable food items and delivering those food donations to the West Texas Food Bank/El Pasoans Fighting Hunger. Those with a neighborhood mailbox are encouraged to take their donations to their local post office. In 2011, the food drive brought in 98 tons of food. The collection yielded enough food to supply thousands of El Paso families for about a week. This year’s drive seeks to yield more than 100 tons. To learn more, call Jason Brewer at 533-2434, ext. 236, or visit the United Way website at www.unitedwayelpaso.org.

Off-road adventure
The Fort Bliss-based OL-Skool 4×4 Adventure is hosting a weekend off-road and camping trip for the Fort Bliss and El Paso community Saturday 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 and so forth. To learn more, call Duane Shaw at 744-2695 or 861-1486.

Diablo military nights
Diablo military nights return to Cohen Stadium with free tickets to six exciting baseball games. Wednesday military nights will feature $3 hot dog and beverage combos. The children’s entertainment area features a new swimming pool, jumping balloons and visits by the Diamond Girls cheerleaders and Diablos mascot; and it’s free. Game nights include:

• May 30: Diablos vs. the Kansas T-Bones
• June 13: Diablos vs. the Amarillo Sox
• June 22: Diablos vs. the Laredo Lemurs
• July 31: Diablos vs. the Grand Prairie AirHogs
• Aug. 8: Diablos vs. the Laredo Lemurs
• Aug. 31: Diablos vs. the Sioux Falls Pheasants, (includes fireworks).

All military night games are free to military, family members, DoD ID cardholders and civilian contractors. Tickets are available at both USOs, both ITRs, and Soto, Stout and Milam physical fitness centers. Game time for all events is 7:05 p.m.

Casting call
Frontera Repertory Theatre Company is holding season auditions May 19 and 20 from 1 to 5 p.m. (both days) at the El Paso Museum of Modern Art located at 1 Festival Arts Plaza in downtown El Paso. The theater company is looking for adult women and men, as well as young adults (no child roles are available at this time). This is an open call and all hired actors will be paid. Bring two headshots and resumes if possible. Come prepared with a brief monologue or speech. There will also be cold script readings. If you are unable to attend the open call, email casting@fronterarep.org to make alternate arrangements.

Salute the Troops Car Show
The annual Salute the Troops Car Show, sponsored by the Rio Grande Wheels, Southwest Classic, Southwest Mopar, Early Times, Sun City Rodders, Street Memories and El Paso Corvette car clubs, will be held May 19 from 10 to 4 p.m. as part of Fort Bliss’ Armed Forces Day celebration. The car show, to be staged at Biggs Park, will feature some of the best hot rods, street rods, muscle cars, classics, custom trucks and late-model, high-performance vehicles in the Southwest. The show is held in honor of all past and present servicemembers and their families. To learn more, call 256-0856 or visit the El Paso Corvette Car Club website at www.elpasocorvettes.com

Thrift Shop volunteers
The Thrift Shop at Fort Bliss is in need of new volunteers. Volunteers get to consign more merchandise and get first choice on all the great items that come into the shop. Also, the Thrift Shop will provide Child Development Center vouchers for volunteer workers. The Thrift Shop at Fort Bliss is operated by the Fort Bliss Officer and Civilian Spouses Association and is brimming with an ever-changing array of treasures. We accept donations and consignments of gently used goods. Shop and see the great bargains provided to military families and to the El Paso community. The Thrift Shop is at 1301 Cassidy Road and is open Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and the first and third Saturday of the month from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Consignment hours are from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. To learn more, call 562-5451.

Norwegian Constitution Day
The Sol Hjem Chapter of the Norwegian Society of Texas will celebrate Norwegian Constitution Day – Sittendai Mai – May 19 at Mt. Hope Lutheran Church, 9640 Montwood Dr., at 3 p.m. Swedes, Danes, Finns and any combination are cordially invited as well. To learn more, call Lila Grossinger at 449-6757.

Women’s only hike
Franklin Mountains State Park is hosting a women’s only hike at 8 a.m. today. Meet at the Nature Walk trailhead in the Tom Mays Unit. The length is less than three-fourth of a mile, but it will also serve as an educational opportunity. To learn more or for reservations, call 566-6441.

Sacred Heart Church Kermess
Sacred Heart Church is hosting its second annual Kermess from June 15 through 17 in association with the feast of the Sacred Heart (June 15) and Father’s Day (June 17). Sacred Heart Church’s Kermess is set to be a community builder and an opportunity to help their adult education program. On June 15 from 6 to 10:30 p.m., join a procession through the neighborhood at 6 p.m. followed by mass at 7:30 p.m. After mass, the folk dancing group Matachines will dance in the streets. The event continues June 16 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. On June 17 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., join a festival on the church grounds and in a closed-off section of Father Rahm Street. There will be food, game booths, loteria, prizes, raffles, music and a positive atmosphere for everyone to enjoy. To volunteer or to learn more, call James Martinez at 603.8424 or email jmartinez@sacredheartelpaso.org; Blanca Borrero at 821-7048; Bernie Obregon at 926-6763; or visit www.sacredheartelpaso.org.

Free iPad for good deeds
An El Paso dentist is giving away three new iPads to local youth for their good deeds. Dr. Mehrnoosh Darj has launched an essay contest, which will end May 25, that is open to any youth 18 or younger. Children are urged to join the contest by submitting an essay about a good deed they have done. Darj will be giving away a new iPad to each winner who submits one of the three best essays. Whether helping a senior citizen cross the street or helping an elderly woman with her groceries, or organizing a fundraiser at school to help other children in the community who are less fortunate, tell your good deed story to Darj and you could win a brand new iPad. Children can submit their essays online by visiting http://dentistryelpasotx.com/index.php/el-paso-dentist-community-involvements/el-paso-dentist-3-ipads. To learn more, call Darj at 595-6680.

ACAP job fair
The Association of the United States Army and the Army Career Alumni Program will present the first of two major job fairs at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center May 17 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be more than 60 agencies providing opportunities to Soldiers and their spouses who will be leaving the military. The fair is also open to all personnel including the community of El Paso. Bring plenty of resumes and dress appropriately. Many of the agencies will request resumes and request completion of an employment application. To learn more, email leonard.r.stovall.civ@mail.mil.

Op Homefront/WSWF scholarship
Operation Homefront and the Women’s Self Worth Foundation have begun accepting applications for the 2012 Saban Military Wife Educational Scholarship. This scholarship program is funded by a $250,000 grant by WSWF and is aimed at wives of servicemembers so they can attend vocational training programs in the medical field. This year’s grant funds eight $8,500 scholarships and two $10,000 scholarships, which will be awarded for tuition for vocational training in one of the following fields: dental assistant, medical assistant, medical billing and coding specialist, medical insurance technician, patient care assistant/technician, nurse assistant training program or medical transcription. One $30,000 scholarship will be awarded for tuition in a vocational nursing program. Applications will be accepted now through June 1. The scholarships will be awarded in July. Selection for the scholarships will be made by a panel of judges, and the award will be scored in two areas: the applicant’s response to the essay question and her commitment to volunteerism. To learn more, visit www.OperationHomefront.net/scholarship.

Financial services scholarship
The Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company has partnered with The American College to offer 50 full scholarships for distance-learning programs that will give honorably discharged military and their spouses a great opportunity to acquire either a financial services designation or a graduate degree and start a new career as a financial planner. This scholarship program aims to help our military veterans transfer their skills and experience to new industries and build rewarding careers. It also offers a unique placement option through which all graduates have the opportunity to work with The American College to secure a job with an organization or company that’s most suitable for each student’s skills, performance and designations. To learn more, call 790-7834.

AAFES ‘Just Say Treat’ contest
It’s been said that a picture is worth a thousand words. In the Army & Air Force Exchange Service’s Patriot Family “Just Say Treat” contest, a pet picture and 50 words could be worth $500. Now through May 31, pet owners can submit a photo of their furry friend, along with a 50-word-or-fewer description, for a shot at the $500 grand prize. Authorized Exchange shoppers can learn more and enter the contest at www.shopmyexchange.com/patriotfamily.

Chopin concert
The U.S. Army Sergeants Major Academy Memorial Chapel invites military families and the surrounding community to the Dr. Lucy Scarbrough special classical evening of Chopin music. Scarbrough extends her gift to the military community as a way to give back for what they do to protect our country. The skilled and accomplished pianist has been performing annually at the chapel since 2009. The concert is scheduled for May 20 at 4 p.m. at USASMA Memorial Chapel at 11275 Biggs St.

AAFES sweepstakes
Death-defying roller coasters, exciting shows and funnel cakes all await the winner of the Army & Air Force Exchange Service’s latest contest. The Exchange has partnered with Mars on the “Ms. Brown Sweepstakes,” named after the M&Ms character, which offers a grand prize of a trip for a family of four to any Six Flags theme park in the United States, three days and two nights accommodations, theme park tickets and a $400 voucher for both car rental and airfare, a $9,750 value. Additionally, 10 first-prize winners will receive two daily admission tickets to the Six Flags of their choice. Authorized shoppers 18 and older can enter the sweepstakes at www.shopmyexchange.com through May 30. No purchase is necessary to enter and the drawing will take place on or about June 5.

Sports

Fitness Week
Join Team Bliss Sports, Fitness and Aquatics for Strong BANDS Fitness Week now through Saturday. It all starts with a punch card; get yours at a 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. Saturday 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, 20751 Constitution Ave. at 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 on Sapper Street. 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.

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

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, 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 move, 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.

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