Fort Bliss Monitor

Community

NMFA Scholarship program

The National Military Family Association’s Joanne Holbrook Patton Military Spouse scholarships, normally in the amount of $1,000, are awarded to uniformed services spouses (active, retired, reserve, guard or survivor) to obtain professional certification or to attend post secondary or graduate school for an academic year. Applications are only accepted online and are due March 31.

NMFA’s Joanne Holbrook Patton Military Spouse Scholarship Program 2005 application and instructions are available at www.nmfa. org/site/PageServer?pagename=2005_Spouse_Scholarship_Instructions.

Town Hall style AER
The Army Community Service is hosting a Town Hall-style Army Emergency Relief Open Forum Feb. 8 from 10:30-11:30 a.m. This is your opportunity to meet with the decision makers from AER headquarters. They will address the new Commanders Referral test program and many other AER topics. This is your chance to bring up any concerns or recommendation to the program. Location: ACS, Bldg. 2494, Ricker Rd. Call 568-4614 for further information.

Commanders referral extended
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The director at Army Emergency Relief headquarters in Washington has determined that the Commander’s Referral test program will be extended into 2005 and expanded to three additional Army installations. This will allow AER to test a larger cross-section of the Army before determining if the program should be implemented Armywide. For information, call Janice Gamel at 568-7088.

Emergency number

In an effort to better serve the Fort Bliss community, effective immediately, the fire or emergency reporting line, if calling from a Fort Bliss building anywhere from within the installation, is 911 or 117. This reaches our dispatcher directly. If you reside in government housing including 801, billeting or occupy any other buildings with commercial phone lines, dial 911. Since you have commercial phone lines from these areas, you will reach the El Paso emergency dispatcher. It’s important that you identify the area of emergency as being in Fort Bliss property. The dispatcher will transfer the call to us. We hope this will avoid any confusion regarding emergency phone numbers.

Our FB Form Label 5 and telephone labels as required by AR 420-90 have been revised to reflect this change. They are available from the Fire Prevention Office. Contact us at 568-8194 or 568-8195 for any questions or assistance. We are currently working hard toward a goal of having an enhanced 911 system in operation within two years.

We look forward to meeting you under pleasant circumstances, but if it’s an emergency, your Fort Bliss Fire Department will respond promptly to provide you the best care possible.

Valentine Dance

Segura McDonald VFW Post 5615 will host a Valentine’s Day dance Feb. 13 from 5-9 p.m. at 4810 Pershing Drive. Tickets are $5 and door prizes will be given away.

For information, call 598-7505.

Military widows dinner

The Society of Military Widows Desert Sun Club, number 30, will meet for their monthly dinner on Feb. 3 at 5:30 p.m. at the Fort Bliss Officers Club. Reservations are required by Jan. 31 at 772-0265.

Air Force health professions

Air Force Medical Service is hiring nurses, dentists and physicians. Current military nurses, dentists and physicians within one year of completing their military service obligation who would like to apply for a transfer to the Air Force may call or e-mail Tech Sgt. Bill Malcolm at (505) 888-1975 or william.malcolm@rs.af.mil.

Weed control

If you live in government quarters and have desert landscaping, you may have noticed weeds sprouting between the rocks. According to the Directorate of Environment, there are a few simple tips you can use to get rid of your weeds.

Remove the weeds manually or mechanically (hoes or rakes) before the plants produce seeds. Try to remove the entire plant including the roots. Small plants in open soil may also be removed using hand tools.
Using herbicides sold over-the-counter may also be effective. The product must be used carefully in accordance with label directions. Be aware that many herbicides work only in warmer weather.

No one is allowed to apply pesticides, including herbicides, in working areas. Contact the Service Order Desk at 568-1107 to request this type of service. There is a crew of certified applicators to conduct pest and weed control on the installation.

Project Endeavor

Project Endeavor assists military family members in job search assistance and may be able to assist in specialized training. The program is made possible by a grant provided by the U.S. Department of Labor. The office is located inside the Army Community Services Center, Bldg. 2494 on Ricker Road next to the movie theater and is open from 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Orientations are available Monday through Friday at 10 a.m. and at 2 p.m. Stop by or call 568-1132 for information.

Veterinary Clinic

The Veterinary Clinic will be offering Walk-In Wellness services in February on the following dates: Feb. 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 10, 15, 16 and 17. Please note that there is no Walk-in Wellness during the week of Feb. 21 through 25 as a result of our veterinarians being on temporary duty. The hours for Walk-in Wellness are 9-11:30 a.m. and 1-3:30 p.m. on the dates above. Available services include vaccinations, microchips, de-worming, heartworm testing and feline leukemia testing. Anything other than these services may require an appointment and owners should call the Vet Clinic at 569-2266.
The Vet Clinic is located on Carter Road between the Bowling Alley and the Van Horne Housing area.
The Fort Bliss Vet Clinic has new operating hours. We will be open to the public Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m.-noon and 1-5 p.m. and Friday from 9 a.m.-noon and 1-4 p.m.

Aerobic instructors needed

Aerobic instructors are needed for the expanding aerobics program. Flexible hours starting at $15 per class; certified experience in aerobic instruction required; must be CPR certified. Include copies of certifications with application. Apply at or mail resume to: NAF Personnel, Bldg. 504-B, Fort Bliss, Texas 79916.

NAF vacancy

Non-Appropriated Funds Civilian Personnel Office is currently accepting applications for the following positions: bartender, cook, food service worker and waitstaff. Apply at or mail resume to: NAF Personnel, Bldg. 504-B, Fort Bliss, Texas 79916.

Kite flyers needed

Professional or amateur stunt kite flyers sought for an upcoming event on Fort Bliss. For information call Kirsten at 568-2784.

Youth Services soccer

Fort Bliss Youth Services will conduct registration for its spring soccer season, Feb. 1 through March 1. Registration is open to boys and girls, ages 3 and up. Registrants must be Youth Services members and fees are $25 for the first child and $20 each additional child.

Youth Services is also looking for soccer coaches. Experience is desirable, but not necessary. Those interested in volunteering to coach or for information, call Mike Emile at 568-2617.

Scholarships for children

The deadline to apply for $1,500 scholarships from the Scholarships for Military Children program is Feb. 16, and all applications must be delivered to a Defense Commissary Agency store by the close of business that day.

At least one scholarship will be awarded at every commissary location with qualified applicants, agency officials said. The application can be downloaded through a link on the Defense Commissary Agency’s Web site, or from the Scholarships for Military Children site, and can be filled out by hand or on the computer. Copies of the application also are available at commissaries worldwide.

The scholarship program is open to unmarried children under 21 (23 if enrolled in school) of active-duty personnel, including Coast Guard, Guard, Reserve and retired military. Eligibility will be determined using the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System database.

Applicants should ensure that they, as well as their sponsor, are enrolled in the DEERS database and have a current ID card, officials said. Applicants must be planning to attend, or be already attending an accredited college or university full-time in the fall term of 2005, or be enrolled in a program of study designed to transfer directly into a four-year program.

Additional instructions can be found on the application or at the Scholarships for Military Children Web site.

Healthy menus

MWR patrons trying to shed a few pounds will find help at the Centennial Club and at Fort Bliss MWR Sports and Fitness centers. In February, the Centennial will offer special menus featuring healthy dining options as part of a Lighten Up! Tighten Up! Promotion. Diners receive a frequent healthy diner card that is stamped when they purchase one of the healthy meals. Cards can be redeemed after 10 healthy meals for a free healthy meal, the cards are entered into a grand prize drawing for a seven-day spa resort vacation package from www.GovArm.com, a BowFlex by Nautilus home gym, or one of two gas grills provided by Gardenburger. Participate in the “Buns on the Run” 5K run in late March, another event tied in with the Lighten Up! promotion. For information, call 568-2554.

Bliss’ biggest lose

Stout Physical Fitness Center is announcing the Fort Bliss Biggest Loser Challenge. The challenge will take place Feb. 15 to May 15 and the cost will be $300. Class is limited to 25 people. In order to participate, the contestant has to complete a health history form and turn in a physicians clearance form. There will be a fitness assessment during the first session and last session. The contestants will work out in a group setting with trainers three times a week, record their daily intakes in a food diary seven days a week. Before and after pictures will be taken and posted at Stout Physical Fitness Center. Weigh-ins will take place at the end of every week, and body fat will be tested end of the month. Every contestant will receive either several coupons or a free punch card in order to participate in the aerobic classes.

The contestant with the highest weight lost to initial body weight will be announced “Fort Bliss Biggest Loser.” Prizes will be awarded throughout the challenge with the winner receiving a commercial quality treadmill. The minimum number of participants needed to award the treadmill is 15.

Pick up applications at Stout Physical Fitness Center and Civilian Fitness Zone, Bldg. 251. All application and payment are due no later than 4 p.m. Feb. 9 at Stout Physical Fitness Snack Bar.

Outdoor adventures

Fort Bliss Outdoor Adventures announces its upcoming outdoor adventures.

Valentine’s ski weekend: Feb. 10-13; price is $240 per person, which includes bus transportation to Durango, Colo., two-night hotel stay and lift tickets for Purgatory Mountain and Hesperus Ski areas.

Ruidoso Winter Park: Feb. 19; price is $24 per person, which includes transportation, tickets to Ruidoso Winter Park, snack and beverages.

For information or to signup for the trips, call Kirsten, 568-2784.

Bowling specials

The Fort Bliss Bowling Center offers snack bar specials Monday through Friday. Buy the featured special for that day and show your receipt to the front counter for a free game during the week.

The Bowling Center also offers a weekend special which allows customers who bowl two games to get a third game for free. This special is only applicable Saturday during open bowling.

Also, the Fort Bliss Bowling Center patrons may bowl for just $1 per game Monday through Tuesday from opening to closing. Come out and enjoy the center’s beautiful ambiance with its 52 lanes, billiard and game room and snack bar that serves up delicious daily lunch specials.
The center is closed Sunday. For information, call 568-6272.

Lifeguard instructor class

Replica Aquatic Center will be offering a lifeguard instructor class every Tuesday and Thursday in February from 1-6 p.m. Classes will consist of training applicants to teach lifeguard training including first aid, CRE/AED for the professional rescuer, oxygen for the professional rescuer, preventing disease transmission, community water safety basic water rescue and lifeguard management. Cost for the class is $155 and must be pre-register and pre-pay to the American Red Cross, 3620 Admiral Road.

Applicant must be at least 17 years old by the last scheduled session of the class, you must attend all sessions, and pass each section of the pre-course written exam with at least 80 percent an demonstrate competency in the skills evaluation. Call Stacy Wright at 592-0040, ext. 230 for information.

Stress management class

Are you feeling stressed out or overwhelmed with work and responsibilities and you don’t know how to relax? Sign up now for Stress Management class at the Army Community Services Center and learn how to better manage your stress. This full-day class will help you understand how your personality effects how you handle stress, and will teach you how to create a stress management plan geared specifically to your personality type.

Participants will also be taught several stress management techniques based on principals of yoga and deep breathing. The next scheduled class will be held Feb. 25, at the Army Community Services Center, Bldg. 2494. For information, all 568-1132.

Black history basketball

Join MWR for their annual Black History Basketball Tournament, Feb. 18-20 at Stout Gym. The cost is $200 per team and is open to all military and civilian teams. Call Nate LaCour at 568-5198 or email nate.lacour@ bliss.army.mil.

Super Bowl parties

MWR facilities will be hosting Super Bowl parties Feb. 6. Make plans to join your friends at one of the following festivities to cheer on your favorite team in this season’s final gridiron showdown.

The Centennial Club will host its Super Bowl Party at 2 p.m. in The Pub. Watch the game on a big screen TV while munching on popcorn and nachos from the complimentary nacho bar. The Pub offers a fully stocked bar in the warm ambiance of an old English style pub. For information, call 562-5969.

The Officers’ Club will begin its festivities at 2 p.m. in the Down Under Club with a fully stocked bar and complimentary popcorn and free hot dogs compliments of AUSA. Sit back and enjoy the game on the club’s big screen TV. For information, call 568-7013.

Valentine’s Day feast

Treat your sweetie to a special Valentine’s Day Brunch, courtesy of MWR. The Officers’ Club will feature a special Valentine’s Day Brunch Feb. 13 at 10 a.m. Members pay only $11.95; nonmembers are $13.95, and children 7-11 are only $6. For reservations, call 568-7013.

Stray pet policy

The Veterinary Clinic wants to remind everyone about the stray policy on posts. Per USAG Regulation 190-4, if a stray is picked up by Animal Control, it will be held at the Impound Facility at the Vet Clinic for three working days. Strays will be checked for microchips and/or tags when caught. If the owner/sponsor does not appear to claim the animal within three days, it will be either put up for adoption or euthanized. Strays that are seriously injured or ill and appear to be suffering may be euthanized prior to the three days if an owner cannot be located or contacted.

Aerobics

The Fort Bliss Sports Division offers a wide variety of instructional classes to help you stay in shape. We want to offer you as many options as possible with classes being taught at Stout Physical Fitness Center, Bldg. 2930,Monday-Sunday.

Classes being offered are Body Sculpting, Cardio Kickboxing, Pure Strength, Pilates, Step Sculpt, Sunrise Aerobics, YOGA/ Mind and Meditation, Step and Body Bar Workout, Fat Burner and AbAttack, Power Lunch, Step Challenges and Fun Fit. Each class costs $3.50.

A monthly Aerobics Card, which includes unlimited classes, costs $25. A semi-annual Aerobics Punch Card, worth 15 punches over six months, costs $25. For Aeroics information, call 569-5162.

Bowling lunches

Stop by the Fort Bliss Bowling Center between 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. every weekday for a hot lunch special. Every Wednesday, you can enjoy their schnitzel plate and every Friday, try the seafood special – both for only $5.95. For more information, call 568-6272.

Relationship class

Are you looking for ways to improve your marriage, and/or are you trying to build a more positively enhanced relationship? Sign up now for the free session Enhancing and Improving Your Relationship Course. You will learn key concepts that may enhance communication and increase respect, and set your relationship on the road to success.

The course will be held Tuesday and Thursday starting Feb. 1, at 5:30 p.m. in Bldg. 2494. Child care will be provided through the child care center. For more information or to sign up for the course, contact Lyn Matsey at 568-1132.

SKIESUnlimited

The name SKIESUnlimited is an acronym for “School of Knowledge, Inspiration, Exploration and Skills” with the word “Unlimited” for the unlimited possibilities this program can offer Army children and youth. SKIESUnlimited encompasses instructional programs for children and youth ranging from four weeks old to adolescence. Through SKIES, children and youth in Child Development Services, School Age Services, middle school and teen programs as well as home schooled children, have equal access to opportunities that expand their knowledge, allow them to explore, and acquire new skills. For information call 569-7732.

Healthy kids class

The Army Community Services Center is offering a Healthy Kids Class on Feb. 15 and 22. The class consists of two parts a safety and nutrition portion. A certificate is given upon completion of the course. Childcare is provided as long as the children are registered at the Main CDC. To register call Esylen L. Stephens at 568-1132.

Instructors needed

SKIESUnlimited is looking for instructors with skills and/or certification within one of the following areas: ballet/gymnastics, bowling, golf, karate, piano, voice lessons, drama/ acting and dance. A background check must be successful, paid training is mandatory, and the ability to get along well with the youth of our community is a necessity.

This is a before and after school program, and we are also looking for instructors who are certified and have knowledge about “mommies and me” classes and beginning dance for children ages 2 through 6 years. This is a contracted position for the duration of individual course lengths. For information contact Gabriele Jones Johnson at 569-7732.

What is YESS?

Youth Education Support Services is responsible for assisting military youth on post with transition issues and providing extracurricular activities from arts to life skills. YESS can provide a youth sponsor for incoming youth at Fort Bliss or provide volunteer opportunities for youth to serve as a youth sponsor or a member of the CYS Welcome Wagon. YESS offers access to youth computer labs and homework centers. Provide support to military family members who home school. Along with CYS Outreach Services, YESS provides parent classes related to youth education issues. For information, call 569-7732.

Swim classes

Swim lessons will begin Feb. 14 for ages 3-5. Space is limited and the cost is $24 for eight lessons. Lessons will be 9-11:15 a.m. If your child attends the Logan Center or the Main Center, staff will provide transportation. You can register your child at any CYS facility. Must be a CYS member in order to participate in SKIESUnlimited classes. For information, call 569-7732.

Fitness Zone

Fort Bliss community members now have another fitness alternative to the main gyms. MWR has opened the Civilian Fitness Zone in Bldg. 251 on Club Road, just beside the Fort Bliss Officers’ Club. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., closed for lunch from 1-2 p.m. The facility features circuit training equipment, cardio, light dumbbells and Thera Bands. For information, call 569-5165.

CDS Saturday openings

The Child Development Center provides special hours of operation Saturday at its main location in Bldg. 1730 on Haan Road. Hours are 1 p.m.-12 a.m. Cost for payday weekend care is $3.50 per hour; $3 for Tier I.
Children, ages 2 months to 12 years, are eligible for the care. For information, call 568-5689.

Hours of operation

Central Registration and FCC has moved to the ITR Bldg. 1743 on Victory Ave. Hours of operation for Central Registration are 7 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Hours of FCC are 8 a.m-5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Outdoor Adventures hours of operation is 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday
The Fort Bliss Information, Ticketing and Registration Office is open from 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, closing for lunch from 1-2 p.m., and closed Saturday and Sunday.

For information, call 568-7506 or stop by the ITR office in Bldg. 1743 on Victory Ave.

Kids on the Block

The Kids on the Block Puppet shows are available for performances free of charge. The performances cover a variety of topics such as bicycle safety, school safety, vehicle safety, child abuse, bullying and deployments. Shows can be performed for schools, FRG events/ meetings, youth groups, daycare centers, and scout troops. For more information, contact Lyn Matsey at 568-1132, or at the Family Assistance Center located at Bldg 2494, on Ricker Road.

Playgroups

The Family Assistance Center conducts toddler and infant playgroups Tuesday and Thursday of each month. The toddler playgroup ranges from ages 18 1/2 months to 3 years of age at the Logan Child Development Center from 10 a.m.-noon. The infant playgroup is offered at the Youthplex on post every Thursday from 10 to 11 a.m.

This is an excellent way to interact with your children and meet other parents within the Fort Bliss community. For more information, contact Esylen Stephens at 568-1132.

Free Spanish classes

Army Community Service offers Conversational Spanish classes Friday from 8:30-10:30 a.m. in the conference room. Participants should call 568-1132 or 569-7762 to register for the class. Free childcare is provided for participants. Children must be registered at the Child Development Center and participants must book their own childcare reservations by calling 568-1132. Classes are for ID cardholder’s age 18 and older.

English as a second language

Army Community Service offers English as a second language classes Monday and Wednesday. Classes are from 8:30-10:30 a.m. Participants should call 568-1132 or 569-7762 to register for the class. Free childcare will be provided for participants. Children must be registered at the Child Development Center and participants must book their own childcare reservations by calling 568-1132. Classes are for ID cardholder’s age 18 and older.

Sign language classes

Army Community Service Relocation Assistance offers free sign language classes for adults (18 years of age or older) Mondays and Wednesday from 2-4 p.m. at Army Community Service Bldg. 2494. Childcare for students is free at the Child Development Center. Children must be registered at the Child Development Center and reservations must be made by the student. For information or to register for the class call 568-7088.

Oryx hunting

Interested in hunting oryx on the New Mexico portion of Fort Bliss? Hunt code ORX-5-511 is a population reduction hunt for Fort Bliss active-duty military personnel only. All Fort Bliss Soldiers qualify for this hunt at the resident fee of $109, as opposed to the nonresident fee of $1,516. Fort Bliss soldiers must provide proof of active military status, stationed at Fort Bliss. Deadline to apply is Feb. 5. Drawing results are available by March 10.

Application is made on New Mexico Game and Fish Form 2005, either online at www.wildlife.state.nm.us/apps_permit/index.htm, or by mail. You can obtain Form 2005 from license vendors (department and discount stores), or New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Offices. Mailed applications must be postmarked no later than Feb. 5. However, if you apply my mail you must include the cost for the most expensive hunt you apply for. Form 2005 allows a hunter to put in three hunt codes. Using a second or third choice could be a hunt off of Fort Bliss. Thus filling in a second or third hunt choice could require submitting the $1,516 fee with the mailed application.

If you apply online, your credit card is not charged until a hunt date is accepted. If no hunts were drawn or hunt dates were accepted, the credit card will be charged a $6 application fee for each hunter on the application. You might consider leaving the second and third choice hunt code empty.

Call Directorate of Environment at 568-3016 if you have any questions.

In addition to a hunting license, all hunters must have passed a hunter safety education course, regardless of age. Hunters must have proof of completion of a hunter safety education course before they can obtain a Fort Bliss Access Permit that is valid for hunting on Fort Bliss.

These permits are issued by USACAS Range Development and Enforcement, Bldg. 9509, McGregor Range Camp, 569-9211 or 569-9432. These Fort Bliss permits are also available at the Las Cruces Field Office of the Bureau of Land Management, 1800 Marquess, Las Cruces, 505-525-4300.



www.bliss.army.mil	Published for the Fort Bliss/El Paso, Texas Community	January 27, 2005

<map name="boxmap-b4"> <area shape="rect" coords="0, 589, 120, 600" href="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm/privacy-policy.html?o=1" > <area coords="0,0,10000,10000" href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=&creative=92501&camp=8117&link_code=dl1&path=subst/misc/amazon-cobrand-cc/v3/marketing-from-associates-step1.html/ref%3Db1_assoc_29" > </map>	Community NMFA Scholarship program The National Military Family Association’s Joanne Holbrook Patton Military Spouse scholarships, normally in the amount of $1,000, are awarded to uniformed services spouses (active, retired, reserve, guard or survivor) to obtain professional certification or to attend post secondary or graduate school for an academic year. Applications are only accepted online and are due March 31. NMFA’s Joanne Holbrook Patton Military Spouse Scholarship Program 2005 application and instructions are available at www.nmfa. org/site/PageServer?pagename=2005_Spouse_Scholarship_Instructions. Town Hall style AER The Army Community Service is hosting a Town Hall-style Army Emergency Relief Open Forum Feb. 8 from 10:30-11:30 a.m. This is your opportunity to meet with the decision makers from AER headquarters. They will address the new Commanders Referral test program and many other AER topics. This is your chance to bring up any concerns or recommendation to the program. Location: ACS, Bldg. 2494, Ricker Rd. Call 568-4614 for further information. Commanders referral extended \| The director at Army Emergency Relief headquarters in Washington has determined that the Commander’s Referral test program will be extended into 2005 and expanded to three additional Army installations. This will allow AER to test a larger cross-section of the Army before determining if the program should be implemented Armywide. For information, call Janice Gamel at 568-7088. Emergency number In an effort to better serve the Fort Bliss community, effective immediately, the fire or emergency reporting line, if calling from a Fort Bliss building anywhere from within the installation, is 911 or 117. This reaches our dispatcher directly. If you reside in government housing including 801, billeting or occupy any other buildings with commercial phone lines, dial 911. Since you have commercial phone lines from these areas, you will reach the El Paso emergency dispatcher. It’s important that you identify the area of emergency as being in Fort Bliss property. The dispatcher will transfer the call to us. We hope this will avoid any confusion regarding emergency phone numbers. Our FB Form Label 5 and telephone labels as required by AR 420-90 have been revised to reflect this change. They are available from the Fire Prevention Office. Contact us at 568-8194 or 568-8195 for any questions or assistance. We are currently working hard toward a goal of having an enhanced 911 system in operation within two years. We look forward to meeting you under pleasant circumstances, but if it’s an emergency, your Fort Bliss Fire Department will respond promptly to provide you the best care possible. Valentine Dance Segura McDonald VFW Post 5615 will host a Valentine’s Day dance Feb. 13 from 5-9 p.m. at 4810 Pershing Drive. Tickets are $5 and door prizes will be given away. For information, call 598-7505. Military widows dinner The Society of Military Widows Desert Sun Club, number 30, will meet for their monthly dinner on Feb. 3 at 5:30 p.m. at the Fort Bliss Officers Club. Reservations are required by Jan. 31 at 772-0265. Air Force health professions Air Force Medical Service is hiring nurses, dentists and physicians. Current military nurses, dentists and physicians within one year of completing their military service obligation who would like to apply for a transfer to the Air Force may call or e-mail Tech Sgt. Bill Malcolm at (505) 888-1975 or william.malcolm@rs.af.mil. Weed control If you live in government quarters and have desert landscaping, you may have noticed weeds sprouting between the rocks. According to the Directorate of Environment, there are a few simple tips you can use to get rid of your weeds. Remove the weeds manually or mechanically (hoes or rakes) before the plants produce seeds. Try to remove the entire plant including the roots. Small plants in open soil may also be removed using hand tools. Using herbicides sold over-the-counter may also be effective. The product must be used carefully in accordance with label directions. Be aware that many herbicides work only in warmer weather. No one is allowed to apply pesticides, including herbicides, in working areas. Contact the Service Order Desk at 568-1107 to request this type of service. There is a crew of certified applicators to conduct pest and weed control on the installation. Project Endeavor Project Endeavor assists military family members in job search assistance and may be able to assist in specialized training. The program is made possible by a grant provided by the U.S. Department of Labor. The office is located inside the Army Community Services Center, Bldg. 2494 on Ricker Road next to the movie theater and is open from 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Orientations are available Monday through Friday at 10 a.m. and at 2 p.m. Stop by or call 568-1132 for information. Veterinary Clinic The Veterinary Clinic will be offering Walk-In Wellness services in February on the following dates: Feb. 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 10, 15, 16 and 17. Please note that there is no Walk-in Wellness during the week of Feb. 21 through 25 as a result of our veterinarians being on temporary duty. The hours for Walk-in Wellness are 9-11:30 a.m. and 1-3:30 p.m. on the dates above. Available services include vaccinations, microchips, de-worming, heartworm testing and feline leukemia testing. Anything other than these services may require an appointment and owners should call the Vet Clinic at 569-2266. The Vet Clinic is located on Carter Road between the Bowling Alley and the Van Horne Housing area. The Fort Bliss Vet Clinic has new operating hours. We will be open to the public Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m.-noon and 1-5 p.m. and Friday from 9 a.m.-noon and 1-4 p.m. Aerobic instructors needed Aerobic instructors are needed for the expanding aerobics program. Flexible hours starting at $15 per class; certified experience in aerobic instruction required; must be CPR certified. Include copies of certifications with application. Apply at or mail resume to: NAF Personnel, Bldg. 504-B, Fort Bliss, Texas 79916. NAF vacancy Non-Appropriated Funds Civilian Personnel Office is currently accepting applications for the following positions: bartender, cook, food service worker and waitstaff. Apply at or mail resume to: NAF Personnel, Bldg. 504-B, Fort Bliss, Texas 79916. Kite flyers needed Professional or amateur stunt kite flyers sought for an upcoming event on Fort Bliss. For information call Kirsten at 568-2784. Youth Services soccer Fort Bliss Youth Services will conduct registration for its spring soccer season, Feb. 1 through March 1. Registration is open to boys and girls, ages 3 and up. Registrants must be Youth Services members and fees are $25 for the first child and $20 each additional child. Youth Services is also looking for soccer coaches. Experience is desirable, but not necessary. Those interested in volunteering to coach or for information, call Mike Emile at 568-2617. Scholarships for children The deadline to apply for $1,500 scholarships from the Scholarships for Military Children program is Feb. 16, and all applications must be delivered to a Defense Commissary Agency store by the close of business that day. At least one scholarship will be awarded at every commissary location with qualified applicants, agency officials said. The application can be downloaded through a link on the Defense Commissary Agency’s Web site, or from the Scholarships for Military Children site, and can be filled out by hand or on the computer. Copies of the application also are available at commissaries worldwide. The scholarship program is open to unmarried children under 21 (23 if enrolled in school) of active-duty personnel, including Coast Guard, Guard, Reserve and retired military. Eligibility will be determined using the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System database. Applicants should ensure that they, as well as their sponsor, are enrolled in the DEERS database and have a current ID card, officials said. Applicants must be planning to attend, or be already attending an accredited college or university full-time in the fall term of 2005, or be enrolled in a program of study designed to transfer directly into a four-year program. Additional instructions can be found on the application or at the Scholarships for Military Children Web site. Healthy menus MWR patrons trying to shed a few pounds will find help at the Centennial Club and at Fort Bliss MWR Sports and Fitness centers. In February, the Centennial will offer special menus featuring healthy dining options as part of a Lighten Up! Tighten Up! Promotion. Diners receive a frequent healthy diner card that is stamped when they purchase one of the healthy meals. Cards can be redeemed after 10 healthy meals for a free healthy meal, the cards are entered into a grand prize drawing for a seven-day spa resort vacation package from www.GovArm.com, a BowFlex by Nautilus home gym, or one of two gas grills provided by Gardenburger. Participate in the “Buns on the Run” 5K run in late March, another event tied in with the Lighten Up! promotion. For information, call 568-2554. Bliss’ biggest lose Stout Physical Fitness Center is announcing the Fort Bliss Biggest Loser Challenge. The challenge will take place Feb. 15 to May 15 and the cost will be $300. Class is limited to 25 people. In order to participate, the contestant has to complete a health history form and turn in a physicians clearance form. There will be a fitness assessment during the first session and last session. The contestants will work out in a group setting with trainers three times a week, record their daily intakes in a food diary seven days a week. Before and after pictures will be taken and posted at Stout Physical Fitness Center. Weigh-ins will take place at the end of every week, and body fat will be tested end of the month. Every contestant will receive either several coupons or a free punch card in order to participate in the aerobic classes. The contestant with the highest weight lost to initial body weight will be announced “Fort Bliss Biggest Loser.” Prizes will be awarded throughout the challenge with the winner receiving a commercial quality treadmill. The minimum number of participants needed to award the treadmill is 15. Pick up applications at Stout Physical Fitness Center and Civilian Fitness Zone, Bldg. 251. All application and payment are due no later than 4 p.m. Feb. 9 at Stout Physical Fitness Snack Bar. Outdoor adventures Fort Bliss Outdoor Adventures announces its upcoming outdoor adventures. Valentine’s ski weekend: Feb. 10-13; price is $240 per person, which includes bus transportation to Durango, Colo., two-night hotel stay and lift tickets for Purgatory Mountain and Hesperus Ski areas. Ruidoso Winter Park: Feb. 19; price is $24 per person, which includes transportation, tickets to Ruidoso Winter Park, snack and beverages. For information or to signup for the trips, call Kirsten, 568-2784. Bowling specials The Fort Bliss Bowling Center offers snack bar specials Monday through Friday. Buy the featured special for that day and show your receipt to the front counter for a free game during the week. The Bowling Center also offers a weekend special which allows customers who bowl two games to get a third game for free. This special is only applicable Saturday during open bowling. Also, the Fort Bliss Bowling Center patrons may bowl for just $1 per game Monday through Tuesday from opening to closing. Come out and enjoy the center’s beautiful ambiance with its 52 lanes, billiard and game room and snack bar that serves up delicious daily lunch specials. The center is closed Sunday. For information, call 568-6272. Lifeguard instructor class Replica Aquatic Center will be offering a lifeguard instructor class every Tuesday and Thursday in February from 1-6 p.m. Classes will consist of training applicants to teach lifeguard training including first aid, CRE/AED for the professional rescuer, oxygen for the professional rescuer, preventing disease transmission, community water safety basic water rescue and lifeguard management. Cost for the class is $155 and must be pre-register and pre-pay to the American Red Cross, 3620 Admiral Road. Applicant must be at least 17 years old by the last scheduled session of the class, you must attend all sessions, and pass each section of the pre-course written exam with at least 80 percent an demonstrate competency in the skills evaluation. Call Stacy Wright at 592-0040, ext. 230 for information. Stress management class Are you feeling stressed out or overwhelmed with work and responsibilities and you don’t know how to relax? Sign up now for Stress Management class at the Army Community Services Center and learn how to better manage your stress. This full-day class will help you understand how your personality effects how you handle stress, and will teach you how to create a stress management plan geared specifically to your personality type. Participants will also be taught several stress management techniques based on principals of yoga and deep breathing. The next scheduled class will be held Feb. 25, at the Army Community Services Center, Bldg. 2494. For information, all 568-1132. Black history basketball Join MWR for their annual Black History Basketball Tournament, Feb. 18-20 at Stout Gym. The cost is $200 per team and is open to all military and civilian teams. Call Nate LaCour at 568-5198 or email nate.lacour@ bliss.army.mil. Super Bowl parties MWR facilities will be hosting Super Bowl parties Feb. 6. Make plans to join your friends at one of the following festivities to cheer on your favorite team in this season’s final gridiron showdown. The Centennial Club will host its Super Bowl Party at 2 p.m. in The Pub. Watch the game on a big screen TV while munching on popcorn and nachos from the complimentary nacho bar. The Pub offers a fully stocked bar in the warm ambiance of an old English style pub. For information, call 562-5969. The Officers’ Club will begin its festivities at 2 p.m. in the Down Under Club with a fully stocked bar and complimentary popcorn and free hot dogs compliments of AUSA. Sit back and enjoy the game on the club’s big screen TV. For information, call 568-7013. Valentine’s Day feast Treat your sweetie to a special Valentine’s Day Brunch, courtesy of MWR. The Officers’ Club will feature a special Valentine’s Day Brunch Feb. 13 at 10 a.m. Members pay only $11.95; nonmembers are $13.95, and children 7-11 are only $6. For reservations, call 568-7013. Stray pet policy The Veterinary Clinic wants to remind everyone about the stray policy on posts. Per USAG Regulation 190-4, if a stray is picked up by Animal Control, it will be held at the Impound Facility at the Vet Clinic for three working days. Strays will be checked for microchips and/or tags when caught. If the owner/sponsor does not appear to claim the animal within three days, it will be either put up for adoption or euthanized. Strays that are seriously injured or ill and appear to be suffering may be euthanized prior to the three days if an owner cannot be located or contacted. Aerobics The Fort Bliss Sports Division offers a wide variety of instructional classes to help you stay in shape. We want to offer you as many options as possible with classes being taught at Stout Physical Fitness Center, Bldg. 2930,Monday-Sunday. Classes being offered are Body Sculpting, Cardio Kickboxing, Pure Strength, Pilates, Step Sculpt, Sunrise Aerobics, YOGA/ Mind and Meditation, Step and Body Bar Workout, Fat Burner and AbAttack, Power Lunch, Step Challenges and Fun Fit. Each class costs $3.50. A monthly Aerobics Card, which includes unlimited classes, costs $25. A semi-annual Aerobics Punch Card, worth 15 punches over six months, costs $25. For Aeroics information, call 569-5162. Bowling lunches Stop by the Fort Bliss Bowling Center between 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. every weekday for a hot lunch special. Every Wednesday, you can enjoy their schnitzel plate and every Friday, try the seafood special – both for only $5.95. For more information, call 568-6272. Relationship class Are you looking for ways to improve your marriage, and/or are you trying to build a more positively enhanced relationship? Sign up now for the free session Enhancing and Improving Your Relationship Course. You will learn key concepts that may enhance communication and increase respect, and set your relationship on the road to success. The course will be held Tuesday and Thursday starting Feb. 1, at 5:30 p.m. in Bldg. 2494. Child care will be provided through the child care center. For more information or to sign up for the course, contact Lyn Matsey at 568-1132. SKIESUnlimited The name SKIESUnlimited is an acronym for “School of Knowledge, Inspiration, Exploration and Skills” with the word “Unlimited” for the unlimited possibilities this program can offer Army children and youth. SKIESUnlimited encompasses instructional programs for children and youth ranging from four weeks old to adolescence. Through SKIES, children and youth in Child Development Services, School Age Services, middle school and teen programs as well as home schooled children, have equal access to opportunities that expand their knowledge, allow them to explore, and acquire new skills. For information call 569-7732. Healthy kids class The Army Community Services Center is offering a Healthy Kids Class on Feb. 15 and 22. The class consists of two parts a safety and nutrition portion. A certificate is given upon completion of the course. Childcare is provided as long as the children are registered at the Main CDC. To register call Esylen L. Stephens at 568-1132. Instructors needed SKIESUnlimited is looking for instructors with skills and/or certification within one of the following areas: ballet/gymnastics, bowling, golf, karate, piano, voice lessons, drama/ acting and dance. A background check must be successful, paid training is mandatory, and the ability to get along well with the youth of our community is a necessity. This is a before and after school program, and we are also looking for instructors who are certified and have knowledge about “mommies and me” classes and beginning dance for children ages 2 through 6 years. This is a contracted position for the duration of individual course lengths. For information contact Gabriele Jones Johnson at 569-7732. What is YESS? Youth Education Support Services is responsible for assisting military youth on post with transition issues and providing extracurricular activities from arts to life skills. YESS can provide a youth sponsor for incoming youth at Fort Bliss or provide volunteer opportunities for youth to serve as a youth sponsor or a member of the CYS Welcome Wagon. YESS offers access to youth computer labs and homework centers. Provide support to military family members who home school. Along with CYS Outreach Services, YESS provides parent classes related to youth education issues. For information, call 569-7732. Swim classes Swim lessons will begin Feb. 14 for ages 3-5. Space is limited and the cost is $24 for eight lessons. Lessons will be 9-11:15 a.m. If your child attends the Logan Center or the Main Center, staff will provide transportation. You can register your child at any CYS facility. Must be a CYS member in order to participate in SKIESUnlimited classes. For information, call 569-7732. Fitness Zone Fort Bliss community members now have another fitness alternative to the main gyms. MWR has opened the Civilian Fitness Zone in Bldg. 251 on Club Road, just beside the Fort Bliss Officers’ Club. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., closed for lunch from 1-2 p.m. The facility features circuit training equipment, cardio, light dumbbells and Thera Bands. For information, call 569-5165. CDS Saturday openings The Child Development Center provides special hours of operation Saturday at its main location in Bldg. 1730 on Haan Road. Hours are 1 p.m.-12 a.m. Cost for payday weekend care is $3.50 per hour; $3 for Tier I. Children, ages 2 months to 12 years, are eligible for the care. For information, call 568-5689. Hours of operation Central Registration and FCC has moved to the ITR Bldg. 1743 on Victory Ave. Hours of operation for Central Registration are 7 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Hours of FCC are 8 a.m-5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Outdoor Adventures hours of operation is 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday The Fort Bliss Information, Ticketing and Registration Office is open from 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, closing for lunch from 1-2 p.m., and closed Saturday and Sunday. For information, call 568-7506 or stop by the ITR office in Bldg. 1743 on Victory Ave. Kids on the Block The Kids on the Block Puppet shows are available for performances free of charge. The performances cover a variety of topics such as bicycle safety, school safety, vehicle safety, child abuse, bullying and deployments. Shows can be performed for schools, FRG events/ meetings, youth groups, daycare centers, and scout troops. For more information, contact Lyn Matsey at 568-1132, or at the Family Assistance Center located at Bldg 2494, on Ricker Road. Playgroups The Family Assistance Center conducts toddler and infant playgroups Tuesday and Thursday of each month. The toddler playgroup ranges from ages 18 1/2 months to 3 years of age at the Logan Child Development Center from 10 a.m.-noon. The infant playgroup is offered at the Youthplex on post every Thursday from 10 to 11 a.m. This is an excellent way to interact with your children and meet other parents within the Fort Bliss community. For more information, contact Esylen Stephens at 568-1132. Free Spanish classes Army Community Service offers Conversational Spanish classes Friday from 8:30-10:30 a.m. in the conference room. Participants should call 568-1132 or 569-7762 to register for the class. Free childcare is provided for participants. Children must be registered at the Child Development Center and participants must book their own childcare reservations by calling 568-1132. Classes are for ID cardholder’s age 18 and older. English as a second language Army Community Service offers English as a second language classes Monday and Wednesday. Classes are from 8:30-10:30 a.m. Participants should call 568-1132 or 569-7762 to register for the class. Free childcare will be provided for participants. Children must be registered at the Child Development Center and participants must book their own childcare reservations by calling 568-1132. Classes are for ID cardholder’s age 18 and older. Sign language classes Army Community Service Relocation Assistance offers free sign language classes for adults (18 years of age or older) Mondays and Wednesday from 2-4 p.m. at Army Community Service Bldg. 2494. Childcare for students is free at the Child Development Center. Children must be registered at the Child Development Center and reservations must be made by the student. For information or to register for the class call 568-7088. Oryx hunting Interested in hunting oryx on the New Mexico portion of Fort Bliss? Hunt code ORX-5-511 is a population reduction hunt for Fort Bliss active-duty military personnel only. All Fort Bliss Soldiers qualify for this hunt at the resident fee of $109, as opposed to the nonresident fee of $1,516. Fort Bliss soldiers must provide proof of active military status, stationed at Fort Bliss. Deadline to apply is Feb. 5. Drawing results are available by March 10. Application is made on New Mexico Game and Fish Form 2005, either online at www.wildlife.state.nm.us/apps_permit/index.htm, or by mail. You can obtain Form 2005 from license vendors (department and discount stores), or New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Offices. Mailed applications must be postmarked no later than Feb. 5. However, if you apply my mail you must include the cost for the most expensive hunt you apply for. Form 2005 allows a hunter to put in three hunt codes. Using a second or third choice could be a hunt off of Fort Bliss. Thus filling in a second or third hunt choice could require submitting the $1,516 fee with the mailed application. If you apply online, your credit card is not charged until a hunt date is accepted. If no hunts were drawn or hunt dates were accepted, the credit card will be charged a $6 application fee for each hunter on the application. You might consider leaving the second and third choice hunt code empty. Call Directorate of Environment at 568-3016 if you have any questions. In addition to a hunting license, all hunters must have passed a hunter safety education course, regardless of age. Hunters must have proof of completion of a hunter safety education course before they can obtain a Fort Bliss Access Permit that is valid for hunting on Fort Bliss. These permits are issued by USACAS Range Development and Enforcement, Bldg. 9509, McGregor Range Camp, 569-9211 or 569-9432. These Fort Bliss permits are also available at the Las Cruces Field Office of the Bureau of Land Management, 1800 Marquess, Las Cruces, 505-525-4300.