Adopt-A-Soldier. The 6th Air Defense Artillery Brigade is looking for host families to sponsor Soldiers for a Thanksgiving meal Nov. 22. The Soldiers range from privates to specialists, and they have less than 20 weeks in service. Each year, Soldiers in the Advanced Individual Training at Fort Bliss spend Thanksgiving Day far from their homes and families. If interested in serving as a host family during this Thanksgiving, call 568-6511 or 568-1744 no later than Nov. 19. The following information is required: name, address, telephone number and the number of Soldiers to sponsor. Photo by Wilson A. Rivera.
Off Duty is a compilation of military-affiliated information and events focused for the Soldier, their family members and veterans. Information should be 100 words or less and contain no editorializing. An informational brief that is not time specific will not run for more than 30 days. All submissions are due no later than Friday for publication in the following week’s paper.
New Monitor Web site
The Fort Bliss Monitor Web site has been updated. Visit the Monitor Online at its new location, www.fbmonitor.com. Enjoy a more interactive site. Check out the new blog – the Fort Bliss Voice – and interactive maps of El Paso and Fort Bliss. Upload your photos for others to view and comment on in the new photo gallery. The PDF version of the newspaper is still available, as well as archives, news and weather links.
New Kelly Park hours
Effective today, GMH Kelly Park hours have changed until March 31. New hours are as follows:
Monday: Closed
Tuesday through Saturday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday: Noon to 5 p.m.
Outdoor Adventures
Outdoor Adventures has the following Saturday trips planned:
Sunday – Ladies’ Trip to Ruidoso
Nov. 10 and 11 – Wild West Weekend
To sign up, call 568-2784.
Holiday bazaar
The Fort Bliss Holiday Bazaar will be from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday at Stout Gym. Admission is $1 for individuals over 18 years old. There will be Southwest handcrafted merchandise, artwork, and seasonal items. Food and drink will also be available. For information, call 590-7202.
MOAA scholarships
The El Paso Chapter, Military Officers Association of America, announces the MOAA 2008-2009 Scholarship, Grant and Interest-free Loan programs. Eligibility requirements for scholarships and grants are at www.moaa.org/education. Interest-free loans are available for students younger than 24 who are children of MOAA members (former, active, retired and Reserve or National Guard officers), and children of active-duty, Reserve, National Guard or retired enlisted military personnel. Online applications are available Thursday through March 1. Applicants must have a 3.0 grade point average and be planning to attend an accredited college or university as a full-time student. For information, call (800) 234-6622.
Texas big game hunts
There are special drawings for permits for hunting opportunities available on Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Hunting Areas. The hunting area closest to Fort Bliss is TPWD’s Sierra Diablo Wildlife Management Area, located on the Hudspeth-Culberson County line. Deadlines for applications is Thursday, depending on the hunt. Deer, javelina, bighorn sheep, elk, even hogs are available in West Texas. Permits are limited, and cost from zero to $125 for hunters drawn to participate. Dates for hunts vary by location. Instructions and applications are available at www.tpwd.state.tx.us/publications/pwdpubs/media/pwd_bk_w7000_0112.pdf. General information about public land hunting is available at www.tpwd.state.tx.us/huntwild/hunt/public/. Call Brian Locke, DOE, 568-3016, or e-mail Brian.A.Locke@us.army.mil.
FCC provider training
The Family Child Care program will hold its last Family Child Care provider training for the year Nov. 5 through 9. An initial orientation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday. Training is for those who want to become FCC providers. Applications and schedules are available at Bldg. 1743 or by calling the FCC office at 568-4198.
Mothers and More
Mothers and More is a nonprofit group that supports women who are altering their careers to better provide for their children and families. Chapter activities include educational and informational meetings, playgroups, field trips, family events, moms’ nights out and more. The next monthly meeting will be at 7 p.m. Tuesday at Jaxon’s Restaurant, 4799 N. Mesa St. For more information, call 227-2617 or visit www.epmothers-more.tripod.com.
MANPRINT course
The Army Logistic Management Center, Fort Lee, Va., will conduct the Manpower and Personnel Integration Applications Course at Fort Bliss Tuesday through Nov. 8. The course is designed for military and civilian personnel in organizations with Human System Integration responsibilities. The course provides an overview of how MANPRINT relates to material acquisition process. Training representatives must send DA Forms 1556 to the Deputy Assistant Commandant’s Office, Bldg. 2, Room 143. For information, call 568-4820.
WBAMC volunteers
William Beaumont Army Medical Center will train new Protestant and Catholic volunteerss from noon to 2 p.m Wednesday. The training is open to WBAMC staff and adult volunteers. An interview is required before being accepted for the training and can be arranged by calling Chaplain (Capt.) Sung Kim at 569-2235.
Veterans Day Gala
The Air Defense Artillery Association presents the 2007 Veterans Day Gala, scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Nov. 8 at the Centennial Club. The gala is a celebration to honor and recognize veterans from World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom. For information and tickets, call 568-2711.
AMEDD training briefings
Are you interested in becoming a health care provider? Do you know a Soldier who should continue his or her education? Do you want a free education while receiving full pay and benefits?
The programs below are open to officers, warrant officers and enlisted Soldiers. The briefings will be conducted at multiple times and locations to ensure all Soldiers have an opportunity to learn about these programs. The briefing topics will include the Interservice Physician Assistant Program (IPAP), the AMEDD Enlisted Commissioning Program (AECP), Funded Nurse Education Program (FNEP) and other AMEDD training opportunities at the following times and locations:
• Nov. 8: 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Soldier Development Center, Bldg. 614, Room 12
• Nov. 8: 4:30 to 6 p.m., William Beaumont Army Medical Center, second floor classroom
• Nov. 9: 7:30 to 9 a.m., William Beaumont Army Medical Center, second floor classroom
• Nov. 8: 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Soldier Development Center, Bldg. 614, Room 12
Individual unit briefs can be arranged by contacting Sgt. 1st Class Tim Wagner at aecp@usarec.army.mil or 502-626-0381. For Soldiers who can’t attend the briefings, please visit the IPAP, AECP, FNEP or HPSP Web sites for detailed information: www.usarec.army.mil/armypa/, www.usarec.army.mil/aecp/ or www.goarmyhealthcare.com.
Motorcycle rally
The Team Bliss Fall Motorcycle Rally is scheduled for Nov. 9 at the Fort Bliss Museum parking lot. Registration is free and will be from 7:30 to 9 a.m. Events include a bike show, motorcycle games, awards and a raffle. Participants must have a motorcycle driver’s license, proof of insurance, motorcycle defensive driver course and wear protective equipment and clothing. For information, call 568-1235.
Wounded warrior bike run
The Wounded Warriors Motorcycle Run Nov. 11 will help provide Soldiers with paid airplane flights home for the holidays. Registration will be from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Barnett Harley-Davidson, located at 8272 Gateway Boulevard East. The event includes stops around El Paso and the end stop is Mulligan’s North Bar and Grill, where there will be a bike rodeo, games, music and prizes. Cost is $10 per rider and $5 per passenger. For more information, call 490-4124 or 525-3646.
2007 CFC
The 2007 Combined Federal Campaign runs until Nov. 15. The Fort Bliss CFC raised $350,000 in 2006, and the goal for 2007 is $375,000. For information, call 569-6774 or see your unit project officer.
Linus holiday
Project Linus is an organization of volunteers who make blankets and quilts for seriously ill and traumatized children in the El Paso area. The next meeting will be at 10 a.m. Nov. 17 at the Northeast Recreation Center in Veterans’ Park, 5301 Salem. For information, call 585-1492.
Waiting families Thanksgiving
The Waiting Families Program will be sponsoring a Thanksgiving Day celebration for all registered Waiting Families at Cattlemen’s Restaurant in Fabens from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Nov. 17. The cost will be $10 for the entire Waiting Family. Price includes dinner and a hayride. For more information or for reservations, call ACS at 568-1132.
Children’s craft class
Old Fort Bliss will host the first After-Thanksgiving Craft Class for Kids Nov. 23 from 10 a.m. to noon. Children will learn how to make corn husk dolls and hear the lore of this legendary craft. For each child, the class will cost $3 for one doll or $5 for two dolls. Reservations are not neccessary but are appreciated, as supplies must be purchased.
For more information or to make reservations, contact Lauri-Anne Disinger at the Children’s Bicultural Living History Program office by calling 568-3137.
Pre-marital counseling
Those wishing to marry in a Fort Bliss chapel must have pre-marital counseling. A one-day class is offered from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. the first Thursday of every month in Bldg. 448. Lunch is provided. Reservations must be made by the last Thursday of the preceding month by calling 568-1519. Register by Nov. 29 for the Dec. 6 class. Check with officiating clergy to insure this complies with their pre-marital counseling requirements. For information, call Chaplain (Maj.) Hutchinson at the Family Life Chaplain’s office at 568-2623.
Waiting families news
The Fort Bliss Waiting Families will sponsor a free dinner for all registered waiting families from 6 to 8 p.m. Nov. 30 and Dec. 14 at the Centennial Club on Biggs Army Airfield. For more information or for reservations, call ACS at 568-1132.
German Christmas Bazzar
Aid for the Needy and Helping Hands organizations are sponsoring a German Christmas Bazaar from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 2 at the German Community Center on Robert E. Lee Road. Patrons will have the opportunity to buy handmade Christmas gifts and enjoy German food and beverages. Proceeds will be donated to charity projects for underprivileged families. Admission is free. For information, call 568-0259 or 568-4824.
New Year’s Eve parties
Come blow out the New Year 007-style Dec. 31 at the Fort Bliss Officers’ Club. The celebration features entertainment, dinner and breakfast. Cost for members is $85 per couple or $65 for singles. Non-members are $95 per couple or $75 for singles. Call 568-7013 for information and reservations.
The Centennial Club New Year’s Dance party begins at 10 p.m. in the Metro Station Nightclub, lasting until 4 a.m. Champagne and a breakfast buffet will be served. Cost is $20 per couple or $12 for singles. Call 562-5969 for reservations and information.
Tickets to either event are non-refundable. After Dec. 17, tickets for either event must be purchased at ITR.
Special Forces PT
Soldiers in the rank of staff sergeant and below are invited to participate in the Special Forces Physical Training Program. SFPT consists of runs, ruck-marches and upper-body conditioning. Learn about the physical requirements, commitment and challenge to be a Green Beret. There will also be classes on foot care, rucksack packing and land navigation. Anyone interested in SFPT must sign in by 6:30 a.m. Monday to Friday at the recruiting office, Bldg. 273, Club Road, near Cassidy Gate. For information, call 569-6432 or 569-6433.
Traffic Court notice
Traffic Court scheduled for Nov. 13 has been reset for Nov. 27. All who have a scheduled traffic court date of Nov. 13 must appear at 8:30 a.m. Nov. 27. For information regarding court, call Luz E. Juarez at 568-0761.
Thanksgiving assistance
The Army Community Service Center and MWR will be hosting its annual Thanksgiving Assistance Program. This program is intended to assist active-duty Soldiers and their families with Thanksgiving dinner. The vouchers will be redeemable at the Fort Bliss Commissary. To apply, Soldiers must complete a nomination form and return it to ACS, Bldg. 2494, Ricker Road. Nomination memorandums are available at ACS and from unit commanders. MSCs will be notified via e-mail of selected recipients, distribution location, and schedule. For more information, call 568-7088.
EFMP
The Exceptional Family Member Program is a program designed to provide assignment coordination and support for military families. If you are interested in additional information, please contact the EFMP coordinator 568-3052.
The Exceptional Family Member Program is looking for volunteers to assist with monthly support group meetings and recreational or cultural outings for the children. For information, call 568-7088.
Crimeline
The Fort Bliss Directorate of Emergency Services has implemented a telephone tip line for reporting criminal activity. This new tip line is called Crimeline and is intended as a means for individuals with information on criminal activity to provide that information to the authorities while remaining anonymous. Crimeline is monitored by Fort Bliss Military Police only. The number is 744-COPS (2677).
Newcomers’ orientation
This class covers all programs offered by Army Community Service as well as community resources. This is a mandatory class for all newly-assigned Soldiers, private through staff sergeant. Classes are from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday in the ACS ballroom. Child care is free for all children registered with Child and Youth Services. For information, call 568-1132.
Military scholarship
Western Technical College is awarding $1,000 tuition scholarships to every active-duty, reserve or National Guard servicemember from every branch of service and their dependents who enroll at Western Technical College. The scholarship can only be used at Western Technical College and is non-transferable. Courses are offered in the career fields of fiber optics, telecommunications, computers, information technology, automotive, medium/heavy diesel technician, performance tuning, medical assisting, electronics, welding, biomedical equipment technician, massage therapy, refrigeration, hemodialysis, EKG, medical coding specialties and phlebotomy. For information, contact the admissions department at 532-3737 or 566- 9621.
Spouse employment
The Greater El Paso Chamber of Commerce and Workforce Commission have developed an online database for military spouses who are on orders to PCS to Fort Bliss and for spouses currently stationed here seeking employment. This is not a database for existing jobs; this is a site from which businesses can recruit candidates and possibly create a position should the right person come along. Registration is open to all military spouses. Spouses and businesses can register online at www.elpasojobregister.com.
American Red Cross
The ARC is actively recruiting volunteers. Those interested in volunteering must first attend a volunteer orientation, fill out the volunteer packet and complete the background check. Volunteer orientations are held from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Fridays at the Fort Bliss Red Cross, Bldg. 45, Slater Road, and at the El Paso Red Cross, 3620 Admiral St., from 6 to 9 p.m. Thursdays. To register, call 568-4898 or 592-0208.
NCO Wives’ Club
The Noncommissioned Officer Wives’ Club helps enhance the morale and welfare of the Fort Bliss and surrounding communities. Learn what it means to be the spouse of an NCO. The meetings are at 9:30 a.m. the first Tuesday of each month at Bldg. 2009, Sheridan Road. For information, call 851-2311 or 590-7202.
PWOC
Protestant Women of the Chapel meets Wednesdays from 9:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. at the Center Chapel. Participate in worship and Bible study with other women. Child care is provided, along with a home school room. For more information, call Jane Ahl at 564-3936 or Trudy Wyant at 433-5342.
Employment readiness
The Employment Readiness Program located at Army Community Service, Bldg. 2494, Ricker Road, was created to address the employment needs of today’s military spouses by providing them the tools they need to successfully search for, obtain and maintain employment. Spouse employment orientation is at 10 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays. Visit www.blissmwr.com and click on ACS employment to download an employment handbook with the answers to frequently asked questions. Ongoing workshops are available in RESUMIX/Ten Steps to a Federal Job, Writing a Winning Resume, Networking for Job Search and Career Success, Jumpstart Your Job Search, Job Interviewing Techniques, Career Exploration and Planning and How to Mobilize Your Home Business. For information, call 568-1132. Other useful sites are http://workintexas.com, www.militaryspousejobsearch.org and www.military.com/spouse.
Domestic violence awareness
If domestic violence is to end, each one of us in this community must form a partnership that focuses on creating a safe, violence-free environment. This partnership reinforces that everyone has a right to feel safe and takes a stand against domestic violence. Please contact Yadira Velasco at 569-5058 to schedule your unit’s annual mandatory domestic violence awareness training.
Sexual assault awareness
Active and Reserve Components are also required to receive annual sexual assault training. Contact Johnny Pippen at 569-5374 for more information.
Blood shortage
The Armed Services Blood Program is critically short of types O negative and AB blood. Personnel with those and any other blood type can make an appointment to donate at www.militaryblood.dod.mil Blood donated through the ASBP is used for the military community.
TRICARE Online
TRICARE beneficiaries are encouraged to register now for TRICARE Online, a secure Web portal designed to increase access to care for Soldiers and their authorized family members. Register now at www.tricareonline.com. Direct any problems with this Web site to customer service at 1-800-600-9332.
Promotion points
Soldiers can earn promotion points for completing Army Family Team Building and Instructor Training classes. Classes are held at Army Community Service, Bldg. 2494, Ricker Road, or online. For information, call 568-2382.
Cancer volunteers
The Rio Grande Cancer Foundation/ GreenHouse is looking for volunteers to donate their time and talent to cancer patients. For more information, call Kylene Davis at 562-7660 or visit www.rgcf.org.
UTEP ROTC
The University of Texas at El Paso Green to Gold active-duty option allows Soldiers to continue on active duty with full pay and benefits. For more information, call 747-6692 or attend their weekly Green to Gold brief at 1 p.m. Wednesdays at the Fort Bliss Education Center.