Bliss Happenings | Fort Bliss Monitor

Bliss Briefs
www.bliss.army.mil

Debt Collection
This is a debt collection notice for Spc. Jeffrey Bobon. All services under Bobon?s name should be put on hold. All those with debts to be collected under the name of Bobon or for information regarding collection, call 1st Lt. Susana Martinez at 539-5943 or Sgt. 1st Class Leon Luna at 719-314-6554.

This is a debt collection notice for Pfc. Neil Turner. All services under Turner?s name should be put on hold. All those with debts to be collected under the name of Turner or for information regarding collection, call 2nd Lt. Hector Villegas at 787-373-9317.

This is a debt collection notice for Sgt. Christian Jorge Rincon. All services under Rincon?s name should be put on hold. All those with debts to be collected under the name of Rincon or for information regarding collection, call Capt. Katherine Williams at 892-9520.

ALR unit funds
Active-duty units and mobilized Guard and Reserve units deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom or troops deployed Haiti and in support of homeland security while serving in remote areas, are authorized unit funds through the Army Level Requirements Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation unit fund program. Units will receive $2 per Soldier per month beginning the month of deployment. Call the Fort Bliss Family and MWR Financial Management Office at 568-4444 to receive an ALR information package.

Pre-retirement briefing
Army Regulation 600-8-7 directs that all Soldiers retiring from active duty must attend a pre-retirement briefing between the time the retirement application is submitted and 120 to 180 days prior to the retirement date (or departure on permissive temporary duty or transition leave). The pre-retirement briefings are conducted on the third Thursday of each month. Pre-retirement briefs are to be held Feb. 16, March 15, April 19, May 17, June 21, July 19, Aug. 16, Oct. 18, Nov. 15 and Dec. 20 at 9 a.m. in Bldg. 500A in the third-floor classroom. To schedule attendance at a briefing, visit the Retirement Services Office at Bldg. 500A, Room 102, or call 568-5204.

DFMWR

Video contest
Are you handy with a video camera? Dying to try out that new digital recorder you picked up last year? Then do we have the contest for you: It?s the first-ever Fort Bliss Family and MWR video contest! We?re looking for your videos to tell us what Family and MWR means to you. The winner of the Family and MWR video contest will receive a 42-inch high-definition television, courtesy of Freedom Furniture. The contest is open to active-duty, Reserve and National Guard servicemembers from any branch of service, stationed at Fort Bliss, and their family members age 18 and older, with valid military ID. Contestants must be in amateur status and cannot be professionally employed as a videographer (i.e., with the Public Affairs Office, etc.). To enter, upload your completed video to your YouTube account, then copy the link to your video and send it to blissmwr@gmail.com. Include in the email your name, your unit or sponsor?s unit information, your email address and a daytime telephone number, along with the times it will be best to contact you. Submissions will be accepted until 11:59 p.m. Feb. 20. Visit www.blissmwr.com to view official rules and information. Now get out there and get filming!

Fort Bliss? Got Talent
The stage is set, and our contestants are ready to shine. Watch the best and brightest entertainers on Fort Bliss compete for a $500 grand prize during Fort Bliss? Got Talent, every Thursday in February. Join Family and MWR for fierce competition and great entertainment today, Feb. 9, 16 and 23 at 6:30 p.m., at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center, Bldg. 11199 at East Bliss. Doors open at 6 p.m. Fort Bliss? Got Talent, winner of the Army Festival of the Arts? best variety entertainment production in 2010, is a four-week-long competition showcasing some of the installation?s best performers. Come out and support your favorite contestant! The audience is just as important as the talent in this competition; while each week?s performances will be evaluated by guest judges, the audience plays an integral role because their votes have the power to influence the outcome. Military units also have the chance to win: The unit with the most participation over all four weeks will win a $500 unit spirit award. To learn more, call 588-8247.

Bouldering trip
Tackle one of the best bouldering areas the world has to offer! Join Southwest Adventure for a bouldering excursion to Hueco Tanks State Historic Site Saturday. Tickets cost $15 and include transportation, equipment rental, guide services and park entry fees. Advance purchase is required. Buy tickets at any ITR/Leisure Travel location: Main in Bldg. 1743, the kiosk at the PX, or the satellite location at Sgt. Joshua W. Soto Physical Fitness Center. To learn more, call 433-9666.

Super Bowl party
Can?t make it to Indianapolis??Put on your team?s colors and cheer them to victory while you catch all the great gridiron action Sunday during Strike Lounge?s Super Bowl party at Desert Strike Lanes. The fun begins at 3:30 p.m. Enjoy 12-ounce Bud Light drafts for $1. There will be free snacks and giveaways each quarter, along with a football pool; entry is free with the purchase of food or beverages. To learn more, call?568-6272.

Valentine?s wine and dinner
Enjoy a night of fine dining, entertainment and dancing at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center Valentine?s Day Wine and Dinner Feb. 10. Treat your someone special to a romantic evening in our intimate atmosphere. Enjoy a four-course dinner with wines chosen to complement and enhance each dish. The evening begins at 7 p.m. The first course will feature a crab wonton, followed by a walnut mandarin salad with raspberry vinaigrette. For the entree, dine on filet mignon stuffed with portobello mushrooms, garlic mashed potatoes and char-grilled asparagus. End the meal with a chocolate-strawberry mousse-tini. The smooth rhythms of a jazz ensemble band enhance the experience, and provide an opportunity to lean in close when you cap off the night with dancing. Tickets are now available at the Centennial or by phone and cost $40 each, or $75 for two. To learn more, call 744-8427.

Valentine?s brunch
Ready to play Cupid??Treat your Valentine to a delicious array of breakfast and lunch items during Valentine?s Day brunch at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center Feb. 12. Our special holiday brunch will feature all your favorites, including an omelet bar and carving stations. Indulge in our ?Death by Chocolate? dessert bar and complimentary champagne, wine or mimosas. Valentine?s Day Brunch costs $15.95 for adults and is half price for children ages 7 to 11. Children 6 and under eat free. Seatings run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Reservations are required. To learn more, call 744-8427.

Mardi Gras party
Let the good times roll, and celebrate Mardi Gras with Strike Lounge at Desert Strike Lanes! The fun begins at 6 p.m. Feb. 28. Enjoy free snacks and beads, plus $1 lemon drops. To learn more, call 568-6272.

Car wash survey
Would you like to see a car wash at East Fort Bliss??Would you use it??Your input matters. Let us know what you think by completing our survey at www.surveymonkey.com/s/JDCC9L5. The survey closes Feb. 21; if you want your voice to be heard, answer today.

Martini and a Manicure
Pamper yourself with Martini and a Manicure at 4:30 p.m. Friday at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center?s Sam Adams Brew Pub. For $10, kick off the weekend in style as you receive a manicure and one choice from our menu of carefully crafted specialty martinis. Additional martini selections may be purchased, as well. Martini and a Manicure is a great way to relax after a hard week?s work. Manicures will be provided by students from Tri-State Cosmetology Institute; other beauty and spa services will also be available for a fee. To learn more, call 744-8427.

Black History Month showcase
Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation presents its first Black History Month showcase at 7 p.m. Feb. 17 at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center, Bldg. 11199 on Sgt. E. Churchill Street at East Fort Bliss. ?A Celebration of Our Journey:?From Africa to America? is free and open to the public. Join Family and MWR for a night of ethnic-style dancers, poetry readings, dramatic interpretations, singers and a fashion show. A traditional ?soul food? dinner buffet will be available from 5 to 6:30 p.m. for $9.95 per person. Children are welcome to attend this family-friendly event; however, there will be a special Child Development Center opening to provide care for children registered with Child, Youth and School Services. Regular hourly rates will apply. To learn more, call 568-6353 or 309-8439.

Financial Makeover Challenge
Do you worry about how you are going to pay your rent, car note, groceries and the rest of the bills that keep showing up in your mailbox? Are you ready to stop stressing over money? The Financial Readiness Program invites you to participate in the 2012 Financial Makeover Challenge. The challenge is a six-month program that teaches Soldiers and families to budget and manage their money in a way that sheds bad financial habits and develops habits that take control of their finances. FRP?s coaches will help the participants overhaul how they manage their finances with regular coaching sessions and classes through the six-month period. Participants will learn how to reduce debt, prepare a budget, and start a savings plan that will empower them to make decisions about their lifestyle in order to attain a successful financial makeover. Eight families will be selected for the FRP?s Financial Makeover Challenge. Completed applications must be turned in to ACS, Bldg 2494 on Ricker Road, by Feb. 24. Visit www.blissmwr.com/frp to download the application.

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

Bingo at the Metro
Get out your daubers and join us for bingo fun each Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center?s Club Metro. Binge Bingo starts at 6 p.m. Wednesday nights. Check out Guaranteed Super Saturday Bingo every Saturday at 6 p.m. for a night of bingo with a guaranteed jackpot. Want more bingo? Check out Sunday Funday Bingo at 1:30 p.m. and play for the coverall jackpot. Play Bonanza Bingo on your own ? numbers are drawn each week at the Centennial. If you can?t get enough bingo, check out the frequent player rewards programs. To learn more about bingo programs, call 744-8427 or visit www.blissmwr.com/bingo.

Mega Bingo
Want to play for a chance to win your share of up to $50,000 in cash and prizes? Mega Bingo is back at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center at 2 p.m. Feb. 25. Doors open at noon. One lucky winner will leave with a 2011 Ford F-150, sponsored by Casa Ford Lincoln Nissan, and all games are guaranteed to pay out at least $500 cash. Tickets go on sale Monday. Advance tickets cost $100; tickets at the door cost $125. Mega Bingo must have a minimum of 50 participants or the game will be cancelled and buy-ins will be refunded. To learn more, call 744-8427.

Framing classes
Learn from certified instructors how to professionally frame your artwork, diplomas or certificates. Framing Bliss offers framing classes every other Saturday from 8:45 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The next class is scheduled for Saturday. Classes are open to DoD ID card holders and their guests and cost $30 per person, or $25 each for two people. Class fees cover all required materials and instruction. Patrons must register and pay for classes by the Friday before the class date. Special arrangements can be made to offer classes for groups with four or more people. To learn more, visit Framing Bliss in Bldg. 820 on Marshall Road or call 568-5563.

POV Resale Lot has moved
The Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation personally owned vehicle resale lot has moved to Bldg. 1717 on Marshall Road in the parking lot of the old Commissary.

Spouse employment orientation
Are you a military spouse looking for employment? Attend the employment orientation at Army Community Service. The orientation takes approximately 1.5 hours and a lot of good information will be provided about free services available to you. We provide resume (civilian and federal) assistance and help you get ready for interviews. We have certified federal job search trainers eager to assist you. Orientations are held from 10 to 11:30 a.m. every Monday and Wednesday at ACS, located in Bldg. 2494 on Ricker Road at West Fort Bliss. Advance registration is required. To learn more or to register, call 569-5838.

Lock and Leave
The offices for Lock and Leave Storage have moved to Bldg. 11284 (next to the Biggs Shoppette) at East Fort Bliss. To learn more, call 566-8321.

Excess furniture
Family and MWR sells tables, chairs, bed frames, sofas and more from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. every Friday at the Property Book Office warehouse in Bldg. 643 on Taylor Road. All items are sold ?as-is? and refunds or exchanges are not permitted. The PBO warehouse accepts cash, Visa or Mastercard only, and is closed holidays and training holidays. To learn more, call 568-3779 or 568-4501.

iPlay iWin Bingo
Try your luck with hand-held iPlay iWin Bingo at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center and Desert Strike Lanes. iPlay iWin Bingo is 24-number electronic bingo you play on your own. To play, simply purchase cards at the register and keep your receipt safe. At the Centennial, play iPlay iWin Bingo during regular bingo sessions Wednesday and Saturday evenings and Sunday afternoon. To learn more, call 744-8427 or 568-6272.

Soldier sponsorship
Are you a Soldier who wants to mentor and assist inbound Soldiers and their families who are new to Fort Bliss? Can you show them the ropes and get them acquainted with the post? Sponsorship training is available from 3 to 4 p.m. the second Thursday of every month. To learn more or to set up unit training, call 568-1132.

Weight Training 101
Learn how to safely and effectively use weight training to increase your fitness level with Weight Training 101. Weight Training 101 is a six-week program designed to introduce adults 18 and older to the weight room, teach workout programs designed by two certified personal trainers, and have students leave the program feeling confident about working out on their own. The class will meet from 10 to 11:30 a.m. each Saturday from Saturday through March 17. The six-week session costs $60 per person. Register at the Sgt. Joshua W. Soto Physical Fitness Center Juice Bar by Friday. There must be eight participants to hold the program; maximum participation is 12. To learn more, call 744-5788.

Fire Brand Boot Camp
Do you need a kick in the pants to reach your fitness goals? Join the fitness professionals at Ironworks Gym for the Fire Brand Boot Camp and see results through functional training. Ironworks Gym is located at Bldg. T20700 on Anzio Way at East Fort Bliss. The six-week course meets from 6 to 7 p.m. each Tuesday and Thursday from Feb. 7 through March 15. Registration costs $60 per person and is open to individuals age 18 and older. There must be at least eight participants registered to hold the program. Register at the Sgt. Joshua W. Soto Physical Fitness Center Juice Bar by Monday. To learn more visit Soto Gym.

Lunch Rocks! half-day trips?
Looking for a thrill? Southwest Adventure?s new Lunch Rocks!?program provides one. These Thursday trips run a half-day each and visit some of the best climbing locations in the country, conveniently located near Fort Bliss.

Upcoming trips include:

? Feb. 9: Hueco Tanks State Historic Site

For each trip, tickets cost $10 and include transportation, park admission fees, guide services and required equipment. Advance purchase is required. Buy tickets at any Leisure Travel Services (ITR) location: Bldg. 1743 on Victory Avenue, the Freedom Crossing kiosk or the satellite location in Sgt. Joshua W. Soto Physical Fitness Center, Bldg. 20751 on Constitution Boulevard. To learn more, call 433-9666.

Skiing, snowboarding trips
Hit the slopes with Outdoor Recreation and head to Ski Apache for a day of fun in the snow. Upcoming trip dates include Saturday and Feb. 11. The ticket cost of $50 includes lift tickets and transportation. Equipment is not included, but rental equipment is available at discounted rates. Advance purchase is required. Buy tickets at any ITR/Leisure Travel location: Bldg. 1743 on Victory Ave., the kiosk at the PX, or the satellite location at Sgt. Joshua W. Soto Physical Fitness Center. To learn more, call 744-2415.

Military Saves conference
The Financial Readiness Program at Army Community Service invites you to the Military Saves Conference from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Feb. 24 at the Family Resilience Center, Bldg. 250 on Club Road. Military Saves is a national financial readiness campaign with the goal of increasing household savings for short- and long-term needs and decreasing consumer debt. The Financial Readiness Program has an array of sessions scheduled to address consumer debt, credit repair, budgeting, saving, investing and more. There will be financial counselors offering one-on-one budget/coaching sessions and an exhibit hall with many organizations that provide free resources and services to take your financial well-being to the next level. To learn more, call 569-8376. To register for this free conference, visit www.blissmwr.com/frp.

Multicultural potluck
The Relocation Assistance Program at Army Community Service sponsors a Multicultural Support Group potluck each month. Upcoming potlucks include today, Feb. 16, March 16 and April 19. The group meets from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. each day. Bring a dish from your country for all to share. The Multicultural Support Group is a great was to meet new friends and try new food. Pre-registration is required. Register online at www.blissmwtr.com/relocation. To learn more, call 569-4227.

Hiring fair
The Centennial Banquet and Conference Center is hosting a hiring fair Feb. 7 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The fair is open to all family members of active-duty Soldiers, retirees and Department of Defense ID card holders. To learn more, call 569-5838.

Go Youth

Youth Sports tennis
Registration for Team Bliss Youth Sports spring tennis is under way and open through Feb. 29. Youth Sports tennis is open to boys and girls ages 8 to 18. Registration costs $50 for the first child and $42 for each additional child. The season is anticipated to run from March through April. This is a non-competitive league and the 50 percent participation rule is in effect. Parents must attend a sportsmanship class before a child is eligible to participate in the Youth Services league. Contact Youth Sports for the next available session. If you have already attended this class within the past year, show your card when registering your child for Youth Sports. Participants must be members of Child, Youth and School Services. To register with CYSS, contact Parent Central at 568-4374. Members must have a current physical on file at the time of registration to ensure participation. To learn more, call 568-2617.

Home-school PE group
Beginning Tuesday, Youth Sports will host a home-school physical education group at the YouthPlex, Bldg. 195 on Chaffee Road. The group will meet from 9 to 9:50 a.m. each Tuesday and Thursday for elementary-aged children or from 10:20 to 11:10 a.m. for middle- and high-school-aged children. The group?s mission is to provide a quality physical education opportunity for home-schooled students that offers a unique variety of physical experiences. Participation is free and open to children registered with Child, Youth and School Services. To learn more, call 568-2617.

Saturday child care
Saturday care for CYSS-registered children is shared between Logan and Milam facilities. Logan Child Development Center and Milam Child Development Center share care for CDC-age children, while the Logan School-Age Center and Milam School-Age Center alternate weekends for school-age children. The Milam centers are open even-dated Saturdays and the Logan facilities are open odd-dated Saturdays. No programs are open on training holiday weekends. To make reservations for Saturday care, call the Logan CDC at 568-3989, Milam CDC at 744-7879 or Parent Central Services at 568-4374.

Range safety
The Fort Bliss Rod and Gun Club offers a range safety course for children ages 6 to 17. The class is held at 1 p.m. every second and fourth Saturday on a monthly basis. The class is held at the Rod and Gun Club and is free of charge. Children must complete this course before being allowed outside on the ranges. To learn more, call 565-4867 or 568-2983.

Art and Exploration
SKIESUnlimited now offers an Art and Exploration class. Each weekly lesson explores concepts in line, shape, color and texture using different materials such as clay, wood, wire, colored paper, glue, watercolor paints, markers and scissors. Projects are designed for little hands and intended to help develop fine motor skills. Classes meet Thursdays from 1:15 to 1:55 p.m. at Bldg. 3508. Registration opens from the 20th of the month prior. All students must be enrolled with central enrollment and registration. Register online at https://webtrac.mwr.army.mil/webtrac/blisscyms.html. To learn more, call 569-7732.

ZumbAtomic with SKIES
ZumbAtomic classes are high-energy fitness parties with specially choreographed, kid-friendly routines and all the music kids love, including hip-hop, reggaeton, cumbia and more. Parents love the effect it has on the kids, increasing their focus and self-confidence, boosting metabolism and enhancing coordination. ZumbAtomic is offered from 4 to 4:45 p.m. Tuesday at Bldg. 131. Registration opens from the 20th of the month prior. All students must be enrolled with central enrollment and registration. Register online at https://webtrac.mwr.army.mil/webtrac/blisscyms.html. To learn more, call 568-5544.

Extended care available
Extended child care is available to single Soldiers and dual military families who have a mission-related task through the Child, Youth and School Services Family Child Care program. FCC will verify the duty requirement. Examples of extended care events include, but are not limited to CQ, staff duty, field problems, a special event on a weekend (i.e. Veteran?s Day Parade) or care on a federal holiday. No payment is rendered by the Soldier. An Army subsidy pays the provider directly for the extended care hours. Note: This program is not for families who have a non-military spouse. Army Family Child Care is located in Bldg. 1743 on Victory Avenue. To learn more, call 568-4198.

Spanish classes
SKIESUnlimited now offers beginner Spanish. By focusing on culture, including music, food and games, children will learn to communicate naturally in Spanish. Once students have been introduced to Spanish, they will develop their communicative skills so they become life long speakers by watching commercials, listening to music, reading, watching movies and playing games. They will focus on Spanish communication to speaking ability. Parents are welcome to join their children in this class so that they can learn as well. Registration opens from the 20th of the month prior. All students must be enrolled with central enrollment and registration. Register online at https://webtrac.mwr.army.mil/webtrac/blisscyms.html. To learn more, call 569-7732.

Youth track and field
The Team Bliss Youth Sports track and field team is now recruiting members for the 2012 season. Track and field is open to boys and girls ages 5 to 18. Registration costs $40 for the first child and $34 for each additional child. Practices will be held at Stout Track from 6 to 7:15 p.m. each Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. Participants must be members of Child, Youth and School Services. To register with CYSS, contact Parent Central at 568-4374. Members must have a current physical on file at the time of registration to ensure participation. To learn more, call 568-2617.

PALA challenge
Team Bliss Youth Sports invites children to join the Presidential Active Lifestyle Award challenge now. In six weeks participants will be more active, make better food choices and feel great. Those without an account can create one for free at www.presidentschallenge.org. Participants choose which challenge they want to participate in and look up Fort Bliss? group ? Fort Bliss Get Fit ? Be Strong ? in the activity tracker using group number 936582. Once part of this group, participants will be able to:

? Log activities and earn points that will count toward the group?s total and will help them earn President?s Challenge awards.

? See how they?re doing compared to other group members.

? Interact with other members in the group forum.

? Get even more motivated to be active.

Youth must be members of Child, Youth and School Service to participate. To register for CYSS, call Parent Central at 568-4374. To learn more, call 568-2617.

Parent Central training closure
Both the main Parent Central Services office in Bldg. 1743 and the satellite Parent Central Services office in Bldg. 503B will close for training from 10 to 11:30 a.m. the second Tuesday of each month. To learn more, call 568-4374.

After-school pickup
The CYSS Middle School and Teen Program now offers after-school pickup service at even more middle and high schools in the El Paso area. The service is free and open to all CYSS-registered youths in sixth through 12th grades. MST offers after-school pickup service at the following locations: Nolan Richardson Middle School, HE Charles Middle School, Terrace Hills Middle School, Canyon Hills Middle School, McArthur Middle School, Ross Middle School, Parkland Middle School, Harmony Science Academy, Andress High School, Parkland High School, Chapin High School, Austin High School and Burgess High School. Parents must register their children for this program before the children can be picked up by CYSS. To register your child for the after-school pickup program, call 568-5437.

Community

Teens for Jeans
La Fe Preparatory School, a small charter school dedicated to teaching underprivileged children of the Segundo Barrio here in El Paso, is asking for your support in the ?Teens for Jeans? nationwide contest sponsored by Aeropostale. The school that collects the most jeans or pants wins $5,000. Members of the school are hopeful that they might win and use this money to help build a playground. The school?s funds are sometimes limited. Color, size and style of pants do not matter. All types of new or used pants are accepted, including denim or any other fabric. You can drop off the pants at the school, or a member of the school can pick them up. The collection runs from today through Feb. 9. The school is located at 616 E. Father Rahm Ave. To learn more, call 533-4060 Ext. 4571, email sargaez@lafeprep.org or visit www.lafeprep.org.

SISD Military Family Fair
Socorro Independent School District has scheduled a Military Family Resource Fair for March 1 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the District Service Center, 12440 Rojas Drive. This event will showcase all district schools and departments, offer a free catered meal to the first 500 attendees, and link military families with their neighbors, as well as Fort Bliss and local community organizations. The district is excited to offer this event for military families only. To learn more, call Kari Rockwell at 937-1617 or email krockw@sisd.net.

Rose Bead Workshop
On Feb. 25, artist Sherry White, from Las Cruces, N.M., will share her knowledge of how the petals of roses can be used to make numerous items, such as rosary beads. In this workshop, conducted in the museum seminar room beginning at 2 p.m., not only will you learn the history and trivia of roses, but participants will have the opportunity to make their own rose beads and to string their own necklace. The workshop is free and open to all. Materials will be provided. Space is limited, so please register early. To learn more or to RSVP, call Sue Taylor at 351-3588 or email taylorsl@elpasotexas.gov.

Wicked
We are looking forward to hosting Broadway?s biggest blockbuster, Wicked, at the Plaza Theatre for 12 days and 16 performances. We are pleased to offer a military-discounted group rate for today?s matinee performance. A special $39 ticket has been made available for the military to purchase in groups of at least 20. Tickets may only be purchased with cash and payment must be made in full at time of purchase. This offer is not valid on premium seating, with any other discounts or on previously purchased tickets. Note applicable service fees will apply. To learn more, call the Plaza Theatre box office at 231-1111.

Mardi Gras
American Legion Auxiliary Unit 832 is hosting a Mardi Gras celebration Saturday beginning at 7 p.m. Admission costs $10. To learn more, call 630-1494.

Jewish services
Chabad Lubavitch of El Paso is proud to welcome the men and women of the armed forces to Fort Bliss and to El Paso. Chabad is a global Jewish organization committed to make Judaism available to every Jew regardless of background or affiliation. We welcome all Jewish servicemembers to join our community for our many religious and social events. Services are held at the Synagogue on Shabbat and throughout the week in a warm and friendly atmosphere. We host classes in Judaism, Jewish holiday events as well as youth programs on a regular basis. Join us for a Shabbat meal or set up a private study session to pursue your rich Jewish heritage. To learn more, visit chabadelpaso.com or call 584-8218.

Missile Range hall of fame
White Sands Missile Range is now accepting nominations from all sources until the end of March for its hall of fame.? The hall of fame was established in 1980 to honor former missile range personnel who made lasting contributions of an outstanding nature.? Past honorees include such individuals as Wernher von Braun, the famous German rocket scientist, and Dr. Clyde Tombaugh, the astronomer who discovered Pluto. Recent inductees are Mary Beth Reinhart (Las Cruces) and Dale Green (Socorro). There are now 46 individuals in the White Sands Hall of Fame. To get into the hall of fame a nominee must have been responsible for significant and lasting deeds or achievements in support of the missile range mission. The contributions may be in various areas such as research, cost savings, technological advances, safety, public relations, equal opportunity or heroic deeds. To learn more, call Terry Garcia at the missile range?s Incentive Awards Office at 575-678-3221 or email her at terry.garcia.civ@mail.mil and request the recently revised White Sands Hall of Fame Pamphlet. In addition to the nominating forms, the pamphlet outlines the guidelines and procedures for the hall of fame.? The pamphlet also is available by contacting the White Sands Missile Range Public Affairs Office at WSMRPAO@conus.army.mil.

Passover
The Jewish Chapel of Fort Bliss will host a Passover First Seder scheduled for April 6 at Bldg. 1441 on the corner of Pershing and Cassidy roads. To learn more, call Sgt. McCormick at 568-0361. RSVP no later than March 23.

Shopping sprees
Just in time for the ?big game,? the Army & Air Force Exchange Service and Coca-Cola are giving military shoppers the opportunity to win one of 10 shopping sprees. The ?Coke Big Game? sweepstakes will reward a grand prize of a $1,000 Exchange gift card to 10 lucky shoppers worldwide. The ?Coke Big Game? sweepstakes runs now through Tuesday. Contestants must be 18 or older and no purchase is necessary to enter. Winners will be announced on or about March 23. To learn more, visit www.shopmyexchange.com.

First Tee
First Tee of Greater El Paso have a vision to teach The First Tee Nine Core Values and to give the children of El Paso the opportunity to learn to play the game of golf. Children ages 5 to 18 from the El Paso area and its surrounding communities can join the organization for low annual and session fees. Scholarships are available to those who require it. Online registration is now open. The schedule through the summer and more program information, will be available Saturday. Also, if you?re looking for volunteer opportunities, let us know. We need volunteers during each of our classes to help keep kids on task and safe. To learn more, visit www.thefirstteegreaterelpaso.org.

Harlem Globetrotters
The Harlem Globetrotters are stopping in Las Cruces, N.M. Feb. 11 at 7 p.m. in the Pan American Center. Members of the military can save up to $17 per ticket. To order tickets or learn more, call 800-641-4667, ext. 120 or email stewart@harlemglobetrotters.com.

Blur
The Edge is hosting the Blur challenge for Fort Bliss youths. The racing video game will challenge as many as 32 players Feb. 16 through 18 and 23 through 25. To learn more, call 744-2449.

Career club
The Edge will host a career club for military youths ages 11 through 18 in the 6th through 12th grades. Participants will learn what is involved in achieving certain careers. The class is available every Friday in March from 5 to 7 p.m. The class is free, but only 12 spots will be available. To learn more, call 744-2449.

Coffee House Night
The Milam Youth Activity Center at 10960 Haan Rd. at East Fort Bliss is hosting Coffee House Night Friday from 7 to 9 p.m. Team Bliss youth are encouraged to sing and read poetry while enjoying free snacks, coffee and tea. To learn more, call 744-2449.

Awesome Art
The Milam Youth Activity Center art room hosts an arts and crafts activity from 4 to 6 p.m. every Wednesday in February for military children ages 11 to 18. To learn more, call 744-2449.

February fun
A great many fun February activities will be held at Milam Youth Activity Center?s gymnasium at 10960 Haan Rd. at East Fort Bliss for military youths ages 11 through 18 every Tuesday through Thursday from 4 to 6 p.m. To learn more, call 744-2449.

Garage band
The Milam Youth Activity Center at 10960 Haan Rd. at East Fort Bliss hosts a garage band open house from 5 to 7 p.m. Feb. 23 where military youth can learn how to be in a garage band. To learn more, call 744-2449.

Valentine?s dance
Milam Youth Activity Center at 10960 Haan Rd. at East Fort Bliss hosts a semi-formal Valentine?s Day dance Feb. 11 from 7 to 10 p.m. for Team Bliss youth. Attendees are requested to wear red or white attire. To learn more, call 744-2449.

Photography club
The Milam Youth Activity Center at Bldg. 10960 Haan Rd. holds a photography club Tuesdays from 5 to 7 p.m. for military children ages 11 to 18. To learn more, call 744-2449.

BOGO theater deal
The University of Texas at El Paso?s Department of Theatre and Dance is offering a buy-one-get-one-free offer to military personnel for its production of Pachuco Zoot: A Tale Identity if they bring their military ID to the Wise Family Theatre box office. This offer is valid for the Feb. 11 and 12 performances. The play will be performed Feb. 10, 11, 16, 17 and 18 at 8 p.m. and Feb. 12 and 19 at 2:30 p.m. Adult admission costs $12. Members of the military receive $10 admission per person. UTEP students and children ages 4 through 12 receive $9 admission. To learn more, call 747-5118 or visit www.theatredance.utep.edu.

Merit scholarships
The Fort Bliss Officer and Civilian Spouses? Association is accepting applications for its 2012 Merit Scholarship. The scholarships are for spouses and children of active-duty, reserve-component, retired and Gold Star servicemembers of all ranks as well as the spouses and children of civilian employees whose sponsor lives in or is assigned to the Fort Bliss area. Applications must be postmarked by April 2 to Fort Bliss Officer and Civilian Spouses? Association Scholarship Committee, P.O. Box 6365, Fort Bliss, TX 79906. To learn more, call 821-4460 or visit www.fortblissocsa.org.

Motown tribute
The El Paso Sun City Lions present a Platters/Motown tribute at the El Paso Scottish Rite Theatre at 301 West Missouri Ave. Feb. 25 at 3 and 7 p.m., with doors opening an hour prior to performance. Tickets are $20. To purchase, visit Fort Bliss ITR locations at 1743 Victory Ave. or the Freedom Crossing Visitors Center.

Spring bazaar
The Fort Bliss Officer and Civilian Spouses Association invites vendors for its spring bazaar April 14 and 15. Applications are available at www.fortblissocsa.org and must be turned in by Wednesday.

Food handling
Bldg. 21 is hosting a food handling class the first Friday of each month or Thursdays on holiday weekends. To learn about what time these classes are held, call 742-5312 or 742-2799.

Singing Valentine
To send a singing Valentine greeting to your special person, including a red rose with the three songs, costs only $40. To learn more, call 778-7503.

Gospel movement
The Sage Hall Gospel service, formerly located at Bldg. 311 on Pershing Road, has moved and changed names. It is now the Fort Bliss Gospel Service at 11272 Biggs St. The service is still 9 a.m. Sundays.

Leave donation
Otha James Wade of the Equal Empoyment Opportunity office has been approved under the leave transfer program. Employees wishing to donate annual leave may do so by faxing OPM Form 630-A to Gudrun Weber of the Civilian Personnel Advisory Center at 568-1034.

Race for the Cure
Bonnie?s Beatles is looking for team members for the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. To join, visit elpaso.info-komen.org and search teams for ?Bonnie?s Beatles.?

Resilience course
Army Community Service is holding four-week resilience classes every Friday in February and every Tuesday in April from 9 to 4 p.m. at their location at Bldg. 250 on Club Road. To learn more, call 569-5500.

Sports

Army Strong wrestling
Are you a wrestler? Join the Army Strong Wrestling Team offered through Team Bliss Sports and Fitness. Registration is now open and the season begins Feb. 27. Army Strong Wrestling is open to active-duty military and family members 18 and older, with military ID. Practices will be held at 6 p.m. each Monday at Sgt. Joshua W. Soto Physical Fitness Center, with additional locations to be announced. To learn more, call 744-5800.

Women?s volleyball league
The Team Bliss Sports Women?s Volleyball League will begin play the week of March 12. The league is open to active-duty Soldiers, family members 18 and older, and DoD/DA civilians. Registration is free for active-duty military and costs $15 for all others. All teams are guaranteed a minimum of eight games. All games are played Saturday at Biggs Gym. There will be a mandatory coaches meeting at 6 p.m. March 7 at Sgt. Joshua W. Soto Physical Fitness Center. To learn more, call 744-2444.

St. Patty?s Day 6-Mile Race
Lace up your running shoes and be sure to wear green when you take part in the St. Patty?s Day 6-Mile Race at 8 a.m. March 17 at Sgt. Joshua W. Soto Physical Fitness Center, located at Bldg. 20751?on Constitution Drive at East Fort Bliss. The St. Patty?s Day 6-Mile Race is open to all, including the El Paso community. The first 200 runners registered will receive T-shirts. The first 100 registered are guaranteed sizes. Age groups are 19 and younger, 20 to 29, 30 to 39, 40 to 49 and 50 and older. Early registration is now open at both Stout and Soto gyms and online at www.active.com. Early registration is free for active-duty military assigned to Fort Bliss and costs $20 for all other runners. Early registration closes March 14. Late registration will be held on-site from 7 to 7:50 a.m. the day of the event. Late registration costs an additional $10 per runner. To learn more, call 744-5790.

Open Flag Football League
The Team Bliss Sports Open Flag Football League will begin play March 19. A mandatory coaches meeting will be held at 6 p.m. March 13 at Sgt. Joshua W. Soto Physical Fitness Center. The league is open to active-duty military, family members 18 and older (with military ID), retirees and DoD/DA?civilians. Registration costs $200 per team. All teams are guaranteed a minimum of six games. To learn more, call 744-5790.

Intramural volleyball league
The Team Bliss Sports Intramural Volleyball League begins play the week of March 19. Registration begins March 1. A mandatory coaches meeting will be held at 6 p.m. March 14 at Sgt. Joshua W. Soto Physical Fitness Center. The league is part of the Commander?s Cup competition and is open to active-duty military assigned to Fort Bliss only. Players must play with their units. To learn more, call 744-5800.

Short URL: http://fbmonitor.com/?p=10042

Source: http://fbmonitor.com/2012/02/01/bliss-happenings-48/

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