June 2009 Fort Lewis Focus

Fort Lewis Focus June 2009 FortLewisMWR.comJune 2009

FOCUSDeployment supportEmpowerment ExpoACS workshopsWalk to Iraq & Back

MWR fun, food, travel and well-being guide.

Fort Lewis

Freedom Fest celebrationClassy Chassis car showEntertainment for all ages

Plus:Funtastics Summer Blast CarnivalSummer sports, trips and more

Fort Lewis Focus June 2009 FortLewisMWR.com Fort Lewis Focus June 2009 FortLewisMWR.com


TThis Fourth of July, Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation invites you to Freedom Fest at Memorial Stadium (page 6). People of all ages will enjoy the Classy Chassis Car Show, food, entertain-ment and fireworks at dark.

Deploying soon? Empower-ment Expos were created to help you and yours to feel prepared for a deployment. For additional information, see page 4. Army Community Service holds a number of classes each month to help prepare for deployments, reunions and to familiarize you with the Army. For a class sched-ule, see page 11.

Summer is upon us, and a num-ber of MWR programs are ready for families – the libraries are hosting a Summer Reading Pro-gram and Child, Youth and School Services has a variety of sports opportunities as well as trips.

We also want you to be mind-ful of summer safety, both in the water and on land. Please only swim in areas monitored by life-guards, and visit the Installation Safety Office online at www.lewis.army.mil/safety for motorcycle safety tips and more.

Sincerely,

William E. Harvey

FOCUSDirector, DFMWRWilliam E. Harvey

Marketing directorKatrina McConnell

EditorKimberly Rowe

Senior writer/copy editorKate Mullinax

Contributing photographers Song Jordan

Fort Lewis

Table of contents

For commercial sponsorship or advertis-ing inquiries, please contact: Carly Jackson at 253.966.2256 or 253.203.8088; [email protected]

The Fort Lewis “FOCUS” is an unofficial informa-tion source published monthly by FMWR. All activities described herein are subject to change. Contact the activity for confirmation. Activities described herein are open to authorized patrons and, where applicable, guests. Opinions are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent FMWR, Fort Lewis or any U.S. government entity. The use of a commercial sponsor logo or mention of a commercial sponsor or other

organization does not constitute U.S. government endorsement. Submissions are welcome but may be edited for accuracy, clarity and style. FMWR Marketing is located at Building 2013B, N. 3rd St., Fort Lewis, Wash. Mailing address: Box 339500 MS 20, Fort Lewis, WA 98433-9500 Phone: 253-967-5200/DSN 357-5200.

Visit Fort Lewis MWR online at FortLewisMWR.com or search for Fort Lewis MWR on Facebook, Twitter and MySpace.

FEATUREEmpowerment Expo Feel prepared for deployments with sessions that promise to answer all of your questions . . . . . . . . . . 4

FOOD AND FUNFreedom Fest Celebration Food, fun, fireworks and more. . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Funtastics Summer Blast Carnival Fun for all ages in the PX parking lot . . . . . 6

FREE Diamond Rio concert brought to you by the Spirit of America Tour . . . 6

Taste of Korea First in a series of in-ternational tasting events . . . . . . . . . . .7

FABULOUS TRAVELCruise to Alaska ITT will help plan your next vacation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

FITNESS AND WELL-BEINGArmy Strong 5K Challenge Sign up to prove that you’re Army Strong . . . . . 10

FAMILYQuality family time How to find low-cost (and free!) ways to make the most of your time together . . . . . . . . . . 12

Walk to Iraq and Back & summer sports with CYSS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

FINANCE AND EDUCATIONCelebrate the Army’s birthday Check out a book from the libraries’ military collection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

FEEDBACKYour voice is heard with ICE . . . . . . . 15

Fort Lewis Directorate of Family & Morale, Welfare and Recreation

A word from the director

Photo: Song Jordan4 6

6

12


IFeat

ure

Empowerment Expo: knowledge is powerA one-stop shop for what you need to know to make it through a deployment

Q:

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If your loved one is getting ready to deploy, now is the time to learn everything you need to know to make it a successful deployment experience.

Army Family CovenantMaking families Army strong

We’ve all heard the old saying, “If the Army wanted you to have a family, they would have issued you one.” That was then, this is now. Look no further than the Army Family Covenant for proof that the Army is putting their money where their mouth is when it comes to supporting Army families.

The covenant represented a $1.4 billion commitment in 2008 to im-prove quality of life for Army families through a variety of ways:• Standardizing and funding existing

family programs and services• Increasing accessibility and quality

of healthcare • Improving Soldier and family housing • Ensuring excellence in schools,

youth services and child care• Expanding education and employment

opportunities for family members

“We recognize the commitment and increasing sacrifices that our families are making every day. We recognize the strength of our Soldiers comes from the strength of their fam-ilies. We are committed to providing our families a strong, supportingenvironment where they can thrive,”

By Kate Mullinax

FMWR Focal Point What did you think of the Empowerment Expo?

Photos: Song Jordan

“I feel like she’s better prepared for my deployment now.” – Spec. Daymon Miller, first deployment

“I had a lot of handouts before the event, but it was helpful to come here and talk to people in person and ask questions.” – Tiffany Miller, spouse

“The main purpose of this is for spouses and ... it lets spouses have more informa-tion about deploy-ments.” – Corp. Jared Hermann, second deployment

“I haven’t been to any briefings before, so these are all new.” – Amanda Hermann, spouse

It’s an excellent opportunity for Soldiers and spouses to get all their last-minute questions answered.

says Secretary of the Army Pete Geren about the covenant.

Empowerment ExpoA one-stop shop from A-Z

In an effort to inform families on a wide range of deployment-related services, MWR and a number of other Fort Lewis organizations have come together to host the first-ever series of Empowerment Expos/deployment fairs. These events, which are held at the American Lake Community Center, are a one-stop shop for Soldiers and families.

At the expo, which offers free childcare, you’ll find more than 40 informational tables broken down into four categories: Child, Youth and School Services, support agencies like TriCare and Equity (housing), community recreation and other helpful services such as Military

OneSource and information on educational opportunities.

“All Fort Lewis organizations are working together to maximize your exposure to the resources available during deployment,” says Tracey Wilkin-son from the Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation.

First Lt. Ryan Mabry of 8-1 Cavalry and his wife Gloria attended the expo to find out everything they could. “It’s an excellent opportunity for Sol-diers and spouses to get all of their last-minute questions answered,” said Gloria Mabry. When asked if she found out anything surprising, she exclaimed, “You need a power of attorney for everything!” That’s why Staff Judge Advocates are on hand to provide on-the-spot powers of attor-ney for your convenience.

Weighing your optionsBenefits of staying put

There are a lot of benefits that come along with staying close to post during a deployment. Only you can decide if relocating is the right choice for you, but before coming to that conclusion, make sure you have all the facts.

There are a host of programs and services available to support you and your family here at Fort Lewis that may not be available to you if you leave.


Empowerment Expo: knowledge is powerFeature

5

Deployment support specials: fun for the entire familyNew child care benefits with CYSSThe Army Family Covenant makes free childcare during deployment and FRG meetings available to families. You are also entitled to 16 hours of free child care each month beginning 30 days before a deployment and extending to 60 days after return. If you go beyond the 16 hours of free child care, child care is available to you at $2 per child per hour. If you have a child in regularly scheduled full-time or part-time childcare, you receive a 20 percent reduction in cost. Your child(ren) may receive up to four free SKIES Unlimited classes and may play up to two free CYSS sports. The week of Aug. 17, CYSS is offering a Craig Hodges basketball camp for children of deployed Soldiers. Register Monday, June 8 to Monday, Aug. 17. Hodges, the assistant coach for the L.A. Lakers, is a two-time NBA Champion.

Outdoor RecreationAre you a wife looking to meet other women and take on the great outdoors? Bella Donna Adventures are designed to empower women with the skills to be self-sufficient in the wilderness. Try outdoor activities in a safe environment where you will feel comfortable learning a new skill.

Jensen Family Health and Fitness Center is operating with extended hours: Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Child care is available.

Kimbro Pool holds youth/family swimming on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to noon.

The Arts & Crafts Center will transfer a picture of your deployed mom or dad onto a pillow case for free.

Bowl Arena offers three free games includ-ing shoes to families of deployed Soldiers on Sundays from noon to 4 p.m.

Auto Skills Center offers free oil changes for spouses of deployed Soldiers (provide oil and filter.) For more information, call 253-967-3728.

Family Night is the first Monday of each month at the Cascade Community Center. Families of deployed Soldiers are invited for dinner, free games and fun activities. For contact details and map, visit FortLewisMWR.com.

These services and programs include:• Army Community Service • Personal financial counseling• Deployment Workshop for Parents• Stress management• Deployment workshops• New Parent Support Program• Marriage and Relationship Assistance• Military Family Life Consultants• Military OneSource• Unit chaplains

These are just a portion of the re-sources available to help lighten theload for your family during deployment. Know what services are available to you! Remember, knowledge is power,

so use the expo to empower your-self and learn all you can to make the deployment a positive learning experi-ence. If your family is nearing a deploy-ment, inquire about your unit attending the Empowerment Expo. Make it a family affair. You’ll be glad you did.

If your unit wants to host an Empowerment Expo, call Tracey Wilkinson at 253-324-0563.


Food

and

fun

Freedom Fest celebrationCelebrate with Fort Lewis Saturday, July 4 at Memorial Stadium from 10 a.m. through the fireworks show at dark. People of all ages will enjoy live entertain-ment, exhibits, food and fun. The event also includes the Classic Chassis car show, a rugby tournament, 7K Mud Run and a parachute jump at 8:30 p.m., followed by a Salute to the Union Ceremony and 56th Army Band concert. For more information, call the MWR Information Line at 253-967-4294.

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Free concertJoin MWR for a free concert

Tuesday, July 28 with Diamond Rio at Memorial Stadium. The music begins at 7 p.m., and this event is brought to

you by the Spirit of America Founda-tion. For more information, call the Special Events Office.

Dining options: Ice Cream Day, German Buffet

Ice Cream Day is Friday, June 5 at the Cascade Community Center. Enjoy a tasty lunch, followed by a complimentary build-your-own ice cream sundae. Make reservations now for the all-you-can-eat German Buffet Thursday, June 18 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the American Lake Commu-nity Center.

Nightlife & entertainmentCelebrating a birthday in June? Enjoy no cover, a free 16-inch

pizza and be entered into a birthday surprise drawing. And as always, Club North

is the place for an early morning breakfast served on weekends from 2 to 3 a.m. Carry-out avail-able.

Funtastics Summer Blast Carnival

The Funtastics Summer Blast Carnival is in the PX parking lot weekends June 12-14 and 19-21. Armband Night is Saturday, June 19 – ride as many rides as you can stomach from 3 to 9 p.m. for just $20. BOSS night is Saturday, June 20.

The Arts & Crafts Center

The Arts & Crafts Center is open during construction so stop by to pick up a gift or have your favorite photo or print matted and framed or put on a coffee mug, plate, bag and much more. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Fort Lewis PX: Celebrity sightingsTake a free photo with NASCAR

driver Kasey Kahne Wednesday, June 17! Time to be determined. Other two-hour PX signing events include: Tuesday, June 2, 4 p.m. magazine signing with model Ida Ljungqvist; Saturday, June 6, noon cookbook signing with Oscar-nominated actress Mariel Hemingway; Sunday, June 7, 12:30 p.m. Book signing (Boyology: A Crash Course in All Things Boys) with Sarah O’Leary Burningham; Monday, June 8, 4 p.m. Book signing with New York Times best-selling author Lee Child; Also in June: Book signings (The Great Book of Seattle Sports Lists) with Art Thiel, Mike Gastineau and Steve Rudman and New

York Times best-selling author Robert Dugoni. Coming in July: NFL Hall of Famer Warren Moon.

If you celebrate your birthday in June, come to Club North for a free 16-inch pizza! You will also be entered into a drawing for a special birthday surprise.


Volunteer with BOSSVolunteer with the Fort Lewis

BOSS Team to earn the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal. The BOSS program provides many opportunities for you to volunteer – at special events and local commu-nity functions or as a driver for the Designated Driver Program (runs on post Friday and Saturday nights to offer safe, no-questions-asked rides home). Anyone can be a BOSS vol-unteer – you don’t have to be a unit representative. Call today.

Texas Hold ‘emCome to Club North Thursdays

at 6 p.m. and play for just $6 in the home stretch of the Texas Hold ‘em tourney. The weekly winner takes home a $50 gift card and is guaran-teed a seat at the table on final night, Thursday, June 25.

Visit Great Wolf Lodge & Mount St. Helens with the BOSS Team

Are you deploying soon? BOSS is taking a trip to Mount St. Helens for the weekend! Accommodations have been made at the Great Wolf Lodge with up to four to a room! The bus leaves Thursday, June 11 at 6 p.m. and returns Sunday, June 14 at noon. For additional information, contact your unit BOSS representative or call your Installation BOSS Team.

Taste of Korea: Team Lewis Night

As the first in a series of interna-tional tasting events, “taste the com-munity” is being held in conjuction with Team Lewis Night Friday, June 19 at the Cascade Community Cen-ter. Sample Korean food, have the

chance to win great door prizes and enjoy Korean dance and tae kwon do demonstrations. Must be 18 to attend and at least 21 to purchase/consume alcohol.

Installation BOSS meetingsInstallation BOSS meetings are

held on the first and third Tuesdays of each month. If you are interested in being a representative for your unit (at the company, battalion or brigade level), call the BOSS Team for additional information on how you can represent your single, unaccom-panied and single-parents Soldiers.

The Fort Lewis Installation BOSS reps are Sgt. Stephanie Banuelos and PFC Jennifer Szephegyi.

Attend the Taste of Korea event, earn the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal

Food, fun & entertainment Location Phone numberAmerican Lake Community Center Arts & Crafts CenterBattle Bean coffee shops

BOSS ProgramBowl ArenaCascade Community CenterClub NorthEagles Pride Golf CourseEvent information lineMadigan CaféPost Exchange (AAFES)Russell Landing CaféSpecial Events Office

Building 8085, North FortBuilding 5038, Pendleton Ave. Building 2166, Liggett Ave.Stone Education CenterBuilding 11589, North Fort LewisArts & Crafts Center, Pendleton Ave.Building 2272, Liggett Ave.Building 2400, Bitar Ave.Building 3-A-3, North FortOff I-5, Exit 116

Building 9903, Old MadiganBuilding 5280, Main PostBuilding 8981, North FortBuilding 2013, N. 3rd St.

253-964-1209/2769253-967-5001253-964-8838253-964-8837253-964-8152253-967-5636253-967-4661253-964-0331253-964-0144253-967-6522253-967-4294253-964-4054253-964-3161253-966-0400253-967-5776

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Freedom Fest entertainment Times LocationThe Islanders . . . . . . . . . . . . steel drums bandDead Edsels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ’50s & ’60s hitsBroken Trail . . . . . . . . . . . . country & westernGruvbox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . R&BMagic Bus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . classic rockThe Platters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .national artistRowdy Refs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . crazy game showReptile Isle . . . . . . . . . snakes, lizards & gatorsKevin Wolfe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . big magic show

Main StageMain StageMain StageMain StageMain StageMain StageKids’ World StageKids’ World StageKids’ World Stage

11 a.m.12:30 p.m.2:30 p.m.4 p.m.5:30 p.m.7 p.m.11 a.m., 2 & 5 p.m.noon, 3 and 6 p.m.1, 4 and 7 p.m.

Also roaming the festival grounds will be stilt dancer Janet Rayor, Professor Bamboozle, Zig Zag, George A. Magician, Tall Characters, Tall Flower, Charlie the Juggling Clown, Two to Tango, Two of Clubs and Midnight Musica. The Freedom Fest celebration ends after the fireworks show at dark. For information about the event and gate access, call the Event Information Line.

Food and fun


Fabu

lous

tra

vel

Summer adventures near & far

Ladies only sea kayaking Paddlers of all levels will love this June 6 Bella Donna trip around Ketron Island. Experience the beauty and tranquility of this local treasure while learning or perfecting paddling techniques. Gear, guide, transporta-tion and instruction are provided for $40. Minimum age: 12. Meet at the NAC at 9 a.m.

Whitewater raftingTake a trip down the beautiful Wenatchee River June 20 and paddle through exciting class III rapids. Gear, instruction and transportation are included for $60 (groups of 12 or more are $55/person). No rafting experience is necessary for this trip. Minimum age: 14. Meet at the NAC 7 a.m.

Mountain bike Capitol ForestGo for a muddy mountain bike adventure in the nearby trails of Capitol Forest June 27. With more than 166 miles of single-track trails, it has something for everyone. Bike, helmet and gloves ($30) provided, and you provide the skills. Pack a lunch, and bring plenty of water for the trail. Meet at the NAC at 9 a.m.

8www.NWMSRocks.com 1.888.286.8034


Fabulous travel

Norwegian cruise to AlaskaWith Norwegian Cruise Lines, you’ll

see more of Alaska than you ever imagined. Beautiful coastlines, glaciers and wildlife – like bears, bald eagles and whales – and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Your cruise departs Saturday, Aug. 29 with round-trip travel from

Seattle on Norwegian Star Cruise to Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway and Prince Rupert. Inside staterooms starting from $893, oceanview rooms from $1,157 and balcony staterooms from $1,486. For more information, call ITT Great Escapes at 253-967-3085. Book today to take advantage of this offer!

Next time you’re at the PX, put a trip on your list

Now located at the customer ser-vice counter at the PX, ITT is ready to help you plan your next vaca-tion, whether it’s here in the Pacific Northwest or around the world. Call 253-967-3085 for hours.

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The NAC is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Please call 253-967-6263 for trip details. Pre-registration required. Trips subject to change without notice. Private trips may also be scheduled; group rates may apply.

This trip can especially accommodate people with special needs. Popular Family trip.

Outdoor adventure trip Date Price Description Time Details

Bella Donna sea kayakParasail Commencement BayWhitewater raftingWestport bottom fishingSeattle Aquarium/Pike Place MarketMountain bike Capitol ForestCoal Creek Falls hikeSea kayak Ketron IslandKeeper sturgeon fishing tripParasail Commencement BayIntro to single-track mountain bikingSurvival classHunter safety education courseWhitewater raftingKeeper sturgeon fishing tripBungee jumpingApe Caves adventuresSkydivingHorseback ridingSurvival classMountain bike Capitol ForestHorseback ridingBella Donna whitewater rafting

Saturday, June 6Saturday, June 6Saturday, June 6Sunday, June 7Sunday, June 7Sunday, June 7Saturday, June 13Saturday, June 13Saturday, June 13Sunday, June 14Sunday, June 14Sunday, June 14Please callSaturday, June 20Saturday, June 20Saturday, June 20Sunday, June 21Sunday, June 21Sunday, June 21Saturday, June 27Saturday, June 27Sunday, June 28Sunday, June 28

$40$55$60$96$35$30$30$40$180$55$30$25$10$60$180$125$30$200$70$25$30$70$60

Ladies only trip around Ketron IslandSee the Sound from a new viewClass III rapids on the WenatcheeFish rain or shine on the RangerDay trip to SeattleLearn something new on two wheelsFive-mile hike to Cougar MountainPerfect trip for paddlers of all levelsPrepare for a battle with 42-60” fishSee the Sound from a new viewLearn something new on two wheelsLearn skills to survive the outdoorsLearn the safe handling of weaponsClass III rapids on the WenatcheePrepare for a battle with 42-60” fishEarn Dangerous Sports Club T-shirtTravel into a 2,000-year-old lava flowFeel the thrill of free-fallingTwo-hour afternoon guided rideLearn skills to survive the outdoorsLearn something new on two wheelsTwo-hour afternoon guided rideClass III rapids on the Wenatchee

9 a.m.9 a.m.7 a.m.4 a.m.9 a.m.9 a.m.9 a.m.9 a.m.TBA9 a.m.9 a.m.9 a.m.Please call7 a.m.TBA9 a.m.8 a.m.10 a.m.9:30 a.m.9 a.m.9 a.m.9:30 a.m.7 a.m.

Minimum age: 12

Minimum age: 14

Minimum age: 12

Minimum age: 12

Fish rain or shine

Minimum age: 7

Mandatory in Wash.

Minimum age: 14

Fish rain or shine

Highest bungee bridge in U.S.

Minimum age: 7

Minimum age: 7

Minimum age: 7

6-10: $10 with paying adult

Aquarium admission included


Fitn

ess

& w

ell-b

eing

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Are you Army Strong?Prove it by participating in one of these challenging eventsArmy Strong Fitness Expo

The Army Strong 5K Challenge is part of the Army Strong Fitness Expo held in conjuction with Lakewood’s Summer Fest. Take the challenge Sunday, June 21 at 10 a.m. Other expo activities include demonstrations, sports-clinics with local teams, competitions and appear-ances by mascots and cheerleaders. Free registration for the 5K Challenge is online at FortLewisMWR.com until Wednesday, June 17. For more infor-mation about the Army Strong Fitness Expo, call 206-764-3599/6972.

Intramural sportsThe Intramural Golf League kicks

off Monday, June 1 at Eagles Pride Golf Course. Intramural softball begins Tuesday, June 2 at Wilson and Sheridan Sports Complexes. Teams must submit a Letter of Intent to the Sports Admin-istration Office to participate.

Bodybuilding Competition

Enjoy free ad-mission to the pre-judging of the Fort Lewis Bodybuild-ing Championship at 9 a.m. Saturday, June 6 at the American Lake Community Center.

The evening show is at 7:30 p.m., and youth 15 years and younger get in free with a paying adult ($5). The event features guest poser Gerri Deach-Davis, national competitor and a guest appear-ance by Castro Guzman, the 2004 and 2008 Fort Lewis Champion.

June TriathlonThe first race of the Triple Threat Tri-

athlon Series is Saturday, June 20. Start

with a half-mile swim on American Lake at 9 a.m. followed by a 15-mile bike ride and a 3-mile run. Additional races are July 18 and Aug. 22; all are open to the public. Pre-register online.

Sound to NarrowsThe military unit registration form for

the Sounds to Narrows Run (Saturday, June 13) may be found online at www.FortLewisMWR.com’s race calendar.

Fitness facility Location PhoneSports Administration OfficeCowan and Memorial stadiumsJensen child care Jensen Family Health & Fitness CenterKeeler Sports & Fitness Center Keeler PoolMcVeigh Sports & Fitness CenterKimbro PoolSheridan Sports & Fitness CenterSoldiers Field HouseSoldiers Field House PoolWilson Sports & Fitness Center

Bldg 3236, 2nd Div & HandrichBldg 2170, Bitar Ave. & 12th St.Bldg 2022, Liggett Ave. & Div.Bldg 2022, Liggett Ave. & Div.Bldg 9993 (Old Madigan) Garfield St.Keeler Sports & Fitness CenterBldg 2160, Liggett Ave.McVeigh Sports & Fitness CenterBldg 3759, Stryker Ave.Bldg 3236, 2nd Div. & HandrichSoldiers Field HouseBldg 11596, D St. & 41st Div.

253-967-2604253-967-2912253-967--1254253-967-5975 253-967-6808253-967-6652253-967-5869253-967-5026253-967-7311253-967-4771Closed; renovations

253-967-7471Event registration forms are available at Fort Lewis fitness facilities and at FortLewisMWR.com.

Sign up for the Army Strong 5K Challenge, and then en-ter the push-up, sit-up and chin-up competitions at the Army Strong Fitness Expo.


HOW HOME SHOULD FEEL!

just the place™ ... for you.

...and those you love.

Lewis-McChord Communities

Equity Residential

ering all the essentials of a great military life & best value for your housing allowance

we take care of yard work & home maintenance

Free access to welcoming community centers, large entertainment areas & playgrounds to host your next family gathering

ces Today! ce

2150 Liggett ve., Building 2150Fort Lewis, W

ce

552 Barnes veMcChor B, W

ce Hours:

Mon Wed, FrT

www.lewis-mcchordcommunities.com

Call 253.912.2150 for more information

Fort Lewis’ tap water, which met all Environmental Protection Agency and State drinking water health standards for 2008, is safe to for drinking. Fort Lewis vigilantly safeguards its water supplies.

Fort Lewis’ water comes from four public water systems, all of which rely entirely on groundwater, an excel-lent source of drinking water because of the natural filtration process. The drinking water sources are an

artesian spring and eight secondary drinking water source wells at various locations around post. Fort Lewis produced 1.37 billion gallons of clean water last year.

Fluoride is added to drinking water to help prevent tooth decay, chlorine is added to help kill bacteria that may be present and polyphosphates are added to help balance the pH of the water and to reduce potential pipe corrosion.

Ensuring safe drinking water at Fort Lewis

Water conservation is official regulationResidential use and irrigation are the two

biggest consumers of potable water on Fort Lewis. To help conserve water, follow the guide-lines for each conservation level as outlined in FL Regulation 11-5. Fort Lewis is currently at Level 1.

Level 1 is the normal level of water use. Housing residents should water yards accord-ing to housing numbers (houses with even numbers water on even days; odd numbers water on odd days). Limit watering to no more

than 30 minutes between 5 and 8 a.m. or 5 and 8 p.m. Non-residential/unit areas limit watering to 30 minutes maximum, five days per week. Use of centralized wash racks is permitted between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. daily. Level 2 is a reduced level of water use, and outside water use is restricted. Houses with even numbers water only on Wednesday and Saturday; odd numbers on Thursday and Sun-day. Non-residential/unit areas limit watering to 25 minutes maximum, five days per week. North Fort centralized wash rack is closed.

Level 3 is the most severe restriction of water use. Irrigation is not allowed, and vehicle wash-ing is limited to facilities using recycled water.

For more information, call the Water Program Office at 253-967-2837. FL Regulation 11-5 may be viewed at https://ft.lewis.army.mil/publication/Pubs_Frame.htm.


UR3046_Focus Newsletter Ad_v2.in1 1 12/22/08 2:10:27 PM

Remember a time as a child when you had fun with your family? It could have been as simple as shar-ing a meal or hosting game night.

Think back on these events. What made them so special? Often it was

not the event that was so special but the fun and closeness that was felt between fam-ily members.

In the hec-tic lifestyles of today, it’s important that children know there is a balance between work and play. These special events should appeal to all

members of the family regardless of age and need not be expensive. Let your children take turns choosing the special activities from the sug-gestions to the right (or have them come up with their own ideas).

Now put the events on your calen-dar, and keep the appointments!

This article was contributed by Chuck Sorbello, I Corps Readiness Outcomes & Wellness Service.

Fam

ilyQuality time with the ones you love

R

Fun ideas to get started• Visit a park, zoo or local fair

• Plan a road trip or go camping

• Go to a sporting event, or plan anoutdoor recreation trip (see page 8 for family-friendly adventure trips)

• Go to a farm and pick strawberries

• Movie night

• Family report: Allow each familymember to share an event from their day (no interrupting)

• Have a formal dinner at home and view pictures/videos when children were younger

• Plant a garden or build a playhouse


Family

From gymnastics to soccer, CYSS offers a sport that will interest your child

13

SKIES summer quarterSKIES Unlimited stands for Schools

of Knowledge, Inspiration, Exploration and Skills and offers instructional pro-gramming in academics, arts, life-skills and sports for infants through teens. Upcoming classes – from dance and theater to boxing and gymnastics – run from June 22 through August.

Free Tacoma Rainiers gameYouth ages 12 to 17 are invited to

join Child, Youth and School Services at the July 27 Tacoma Rainiers game – for free! The first 45 to sign up with CYSS will receive a free Rainiers hat. Trip includes free hotdog dinner at the ballpark. Transportation is also provided.

FACS is here to help you and your familyFrom dealing with a deployment, communication issues or stress, and whether you are new to the Army or the parent of a tod-dler or teen, Army Community Service programs can help.

ACS has the tools to help you through a deployment. Sign up for a Pre-Deployment Workshop by calling 253-967-3397.

Preparing for a reunion? Register for a Re-union Workshop by calling 253-967-3397

Also, families that did not previously qualify for the DSHS Basic Food Program

should consider reapplying when their sponsor is deployed. For additional information, call 253-966-9419.

The Relocation Office hosts a New-comers’ Orientation each month for Soldiers and spouses who are new to Fort Lewis. The event, which is Tuesday,

June 23 at the American Lake Communi-ty Center, includes complimentary lunch, windshield tour, static displays and free on-site child care. Registration required; call 253-967-3633/3550.

Learn military terms and acronyms, cus-toms, courtesies and basic protocol with Army Family Team Building’s Alphabet Soup Thursday, June 4 and learn problem-solv-ing skills with Got Lemons? Make Lemonade Monday, June 22.

Family Advocacy hosts Common Sense Parenting for Toddlers and Preschoolers, Parenting Skills Class for Parents of Teens, Stress Management and, in conjuction with the Family Life Center, Communication for Families.

The I Corps & Fort Lewis ACS is located in Waller Hall, Building 2140 and is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Call 253-967-7166 or e-mail [email protected] for more information.

* For children of deployed Soldiers only. CYSS is located in Building 2295 at the corner of 12th St. and Bitar Ave. Use the new FAST lane, or for a full registration, bring current shot record, military, DoD or contract ID card, three local emergency contacts and a sports physical. For more information, call 253-967-2494 or e-mail [email protected].

ACS Program How it can help you Phone numberArmy Emergency Relief Army Family Team BuildingArmy Volunteer Corps Coordinator Center of Excellence Customer Service Management SystemEmployment Readiness ProgramExceptional Family Member ProgramFamily Advocacy Program Financial Readiness ProgramLoan ClosetMilitary Family Life Consultants

Mobilization & Deployment ReadinessRelocation Readiness Program

Financial & educational assistance programGet acquainted with military life and lingoMake a difference – volunteerHelps Soldiers and Families stay connectedForum for your comments and concernsEnhance career opportunitiesSupport/assistance for those with special needsEducation/prevention for domestic violence, child abuse and sexual assaultSupport services and classesNo-cost loan of housewares for PCSersConfidential assistance with deployment/reintegration, daily issues and moreReadiness training/assistanceAssistance with PCSing

253-967-9852253-967-2382253-967-2324253-967-3314253-967-0052253-967-3538253-967-9704/9705253-967-5940/5901

253-967-3525253-967-3635253-495-8425

253-967-9916253-967-3628

Sport/event Date Registration CostWalk to Iraq and BackFirst Swing golf clinicsSpecial Olympics softballFlag footballField Day FestFirst Swing golf campsStart Smart sports campYouth bowlingSports Fit FridayBritish Soccer CampBump, Set, Spike volleyball campCraig Hodges basketball camp*

Fall soccerYouth Fitness Program

ongoing through June 16through June 5through May 28No registrationthrough Aug. 24June 15 - Aug. 7June 8 - July 2beginning June 8challengersports.comJuly 1 - 30June 8 - Aug. 17June 8 - Aug. 14ongoing

FREE $12$45$50FREE$25$14$50 $5 Varies$14FREE$45 FREE

Mon. & Wed. beginning June 1 June 3; June 17June 15 - Aug. 22June 15 - July 23June 20June 23-25; July 28-30; Aug. 25-27July 7-9; Aug. 11-13 July 7 - Aug. 27Fridays July 10; 24; Aug. 7; 21 July 20-24Aug. 3-5Aug. 17-21Aug. 24 - Oct. 17Ongoing


Fina

nce

& e

duca

tion Summer library events and activities

Join “Be Creative @ Your Library!” this summer and enjoy reading incentives, activi-ties, crafts, storytimes and more. The free Summer Reading Program is open to young people, preschool through young adult (parents are welcome to read, too). Events include Tuesday Storytime at Book Patch from 10:30 to 11 a.m. and Super Saturday Storytime at Crittenberger from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Registration begins Monday, June 22 with the kick-off event two days later. Children will celebrate their reading success with an ice cream party in August.

Celebrate the Army’s birthdayCelebrate the Army’s birthday (June 14,

1775) by checking out a book from the Fort Lewis libraries, which boast one of the largest military collections on the West Coast. Military titles include American Military History, Centuries of Service: The U.S. Army 1775 – 2004 and March to Massacre: a history of the first seven years of the U.S.

Teen volunteers neededHave a creative and fun-filled summer

working with children at the library. In-terested teens should attend a volunteer meeting Tuesday, June 2 at 4 p.m.

Information contributed by Georgia Cartner and Jeremy Marshall. Grandstaff: 253-967-5889 and Book Patch: 253-967-5533 (Building 2109, N. 10th & Pendleton); Crittenberger: 253-967-2824 (Building 3271, 2nd Div.)

Stone Army Education Center opportunitiesConsumer Alert – Test Prep Scams National testing programs have received complaints regarding questionable products and services. Before investing in these programs, call the Education Service Officer at 253-967-7174.

Free education counseling (GoArmyEd, MGIB, scholarships, tuition assistance, col-lege information, chapter counseling and more) is available at the Fort Lewis Stone Army Education Center (Building 6242 on Colorado Ave.; 253-967-7174) Monday through Wednesday and Friday From 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and at Madigan (253-968-2707), Room # G-94-6 (ground floor/Reenlistment Office), Tuesday from 8 to 11:30 a.m. and Thursday from 1 to 4:30 p.m. No appointment necessary.

The Technical and Academic Resource Center is a high-tech, multi-media and computer resource facility offering computer access and more. Hours of operation are Monday through Thursday 8:15 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Friday 8:15 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (closed federal holidays). For more information, please call 253-967-2171.

Giant Campus, a nationwide leader in technology training, offers free on-site and at-home innovative technol-ogy courses. For more information please logon to http://fortlewis.giant-campus.com or call 1-800-386-4223.

ROTC Green-to-Gold briefing is Thursday, June 18 at 1:30 p.m. and the Troops to Teachers briefing is Wednes-day, June 10 at 1 p.m.; both are at Stone Education Center. For more information, call 253-967-7174.

An onsite bookstore operates with extended hours during the first week of each term. As the only MWR bookstore Army-wide, all funds gener-ated are returned to the community. For hours, call 253-964-8185.

The Stone Education Center Battle Bean offers specialty drinks and food items. Try this month’s specialty drink, “Banana Crème Pie Frappuccino.”

Cut costs while getting in shape for summer – Getting in shape doesn’t neces-sarily mean expensive gym memberships or costly foods. The following steps will help you get in shape for summer:• Create a free workout routine Walk

the dog an extra block, use stairs instead of elevators at work and park away from the building when you go shopping.

• Keep a food journal

• Reduce transpor-tation costs Ride your bike or walk to your nearby gym. Fort

Lewis has multiple locations where you may work out for free (see page 10).• Borrow workout DVDs from the Fort

Lewis library instead of purchasing.• Fitness trainers are available at no-cost

at Fort Lewis gyms, or go online to find a virtual fitness trainer.

Information contributed by Ryki Carlson. References: webmd.com, aarp.com and living.health.com

14

Photo: Song Jordan


FeedbackGarrison Commander hears your voice with ICE

If you work, live or visit Fort Lewis and use the services here, submit an ICE comment online to have your voice heard by Fort Lewis leaders.

The garrison commander reviews ICE comments weekly and is concerned with the issues identified and applauds the employees who have been recognized for their service. Every issue identified is tracked until it is resolved, and when a trend is identified, it is used to develop better business practices for that service. Your input is important to making Fort Lewis an excellent community.

With so many service providers in ICE, it is hard to highlight and acknowledge all those who are doing so well. MWR ac-tivities that help Fort Lewis Soldiers and families will be highlighted each month. Even when a Soldier deploys or is not physically at Fort Lewis, MWR activities are there to assist the Soldier and make that family separation easier to manage.

If you used one of the services at Fort Lewis and were pleased with that service and the way you were treated, submit an ICE comment and let the management know. If you want to recognize an individual, please take the time to get a complete name so that person can be recognized.

ICE is accessible through Army OneStop kiosks or online at https://ice.disa. mil. Anyone can click on the ICE logo to be forwarded to the Fort Lewis ICE web site. The ICE system is moni-tored daily to ensure that customers who request a response are contacted within three working days. Be sure to answer all of the questions. The more feedback you provide, the better.

Curtis Atkinson is a Customer Service Officer for the Customer Management System/Interactive Customer Evaluation at Fort Lewis. He may be reached at [email protected].

By Curtis F. Atkinson

We want to hear from YOU!

I

15

Voice of the Customer What you had to say about last month’s Armed Forces Day celebration.

> “I come every year. This was the best one ever!”

> “I liked the location better.”Editor’s note: This year’s event was relocatedfrom Cowan Stadium to Watkins Parade Field.

> “This was a 10 on a scale of 1 to 5.”

> Libraries: I wanted to thank reference librarian Jeremy Marshall for assisting me in getting an article through Interli-brary Loan System even though I am not assigned to Fort Lewis. I am in L.A. on an Army Fellowship and requested assistance through the AKO Library support page. Mr. Marshall responded and offered to get me the article. Thanks for meeting the needs of Soldiers everywhere.

> ACS Employment Readiness: Mr. Morrison was really helpful and timely when he assisted me with my resumé and job leads. I am very fortunate to have been offered (and accepted) a job with one of the leads that he provided and helped me to apply for.

> Arts & Crafts Center: Very good pro-gram. Thanks for supporting the families left

Here’s what you had to say this month:

behind. My children liked their pillow cases (see page 5 for more information).

> Army Emergency Relief and Fi-nancial Readiness: Service is fast, and the counselor was very helpful. AER and financial service was a great help and prevented our family from being evicted.Ryki did an outstanding presentation on fixing my credit. I had been com-pletely overwhelmed and avoiding the issues but now I believe the situation can be fixed.

> CYSS Sports: I am very satisfied with the service and attitude of the whole CYSS staff. You have continu-ously been there for me and accom-modated all our needs. You continue to make it easy for my family with my husband gone and with four children.

Photos: Song Jordan

Staff Sgt. Michael Verdonk completed a 100-mile run on Armed Forces Day in support of the Wounded Warrior Project.

Fort Lewis Focus June 2009 FortLewisMWR.com

253.964.3113Two branches on Fort Lewisto serve you

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Documents

June 2009 Fort Lewis Focus