FYI_April11

Page 1

w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m • A p r i l 2 0 1 1

1


2

A p r i l 2 0 1 1 • w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m


w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m • A p r i l 2 0 1 1

1


April 2011 • w w w.for t gor don.c om

Feature

32

Month of the Military Child Cover Competition Each year, the FYI champions the little guys and little gals in recognition of the Month of the Military Child. Our military children are the epitome of resilience, pride and love. They are the everyday heroes that should be thanked for their role in the lives of our service members. We asked military children to draw us a picture depicting what being a military child means to them, and the results were touching. Enjoy.

In Every Issue 5 7 8 9

What She Said Around Town Calendar Reflections Customer Care Zone

11 12 47 51

Craft Corner Swami Says From the Bookshelf The Music Box Cover illustration by Danee Musgrove

2

A p r i l 2 0 1 1 • w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m


13

Contents

Compassionate Care: the Fisher House Reopens its Doors The Fisher House provides a “home away from home” for military families who want to stay close to their loved ones who are being treated at Eisenhower Medical Center. After a five-year wait, the Fort Gordon Fisher House got a makeover and celebrated with a ribbon cutting, award ceremony and cake!

20

Our Volunteers are all that… and a bag of chips. National Volunteer Week is April 10 – 16 and Fort Gordon’s volunteers will receive some serious recognition for all of their hard work. And if you don’t know why you must read this article in which Lynn Harshman, Volunteer Coordinator, introduces these amazing people.

47

MWR is for Kids The directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation provides multiple facilities, programs and events for the entire community. At the top of our minds are the families of our service members. But as a parent, it’s not always easy to think of things to do with the kids, so we’re happily lending you a helping hand!

w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m • A p r i l 2 0 1 1

3


MOMC

4

A p r i l 2 0 1 1 • w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m


APRIL 2011

The Fort Gordon FYI is a publication produced by the Marketing Office of the Fort Gordon Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare & Recreation. The appearance of sponsorship and/or advertising does not imply an endorsement by the U.S. Army.

Staff

Molly Swift Editor Nathan Hoeller Creative Director Bartley Harper Senior Graphic Designer/Webmaster Heather Addis Staff Writer Ashlie Crabtree Staff Writer Cedric Talley Graphic Designer Marvin Sanders FYI Distribution / Sponsorship Asst.

Contributors

Dallas Cooke, Jeff Haskell, Kathleen Haskell, Susie Joyner, Beverly O’Hara, Lynn Harsham, Jerry Swain, Randy Taylor, Sarah Walpert, Steve Walpert, Shawn Williams

Command

I’m sitting in an MWR conference in which we are reviewing best practices as they relate to MWR Marketing throughout the globe. Fort Gordon is here because we were handpicked as an example of a number of best practices to include marketing communications. The current topic is customer outreach; specifically, how do we reach our customers and interact with them. I’m thinking “How awesome, we’re doing that already!” but a single question pulls me out of my egotistical pat on the back and that is, “How do you know?” Molly Swift How do we know we are reaching our customers? Editor, FYI Magazine The most obvious answer is that you are reading our magazine. But the second most obvious is on this month’s cover. The Month of the Military Child Cover Competition (or MoMCCC for short!) has been an FYI staple for many years, and each year we have a great response. However, this year we tried something new; instead of asking parents to nominate their child to be our “cover kid” for the month, we asked the children from our community to tells us in picture form what being a military child means to them. No the response was not overwhelming by any means, but we did thoroughly enjoy looking at the entries we received. What struck me most of all though was the over-riding theme: military kids are proud of their roles. They love their military parents and are extremely proud of them. They see them as heroes that they can care about and care for. They also enjoy the relationships that being a military child provides, and they love their country.

BG Alan R. Lynn Commanding General COL Glenn A. Kennedy, II Garrison Commander

Thank you to all of the children who submitted cover designs for our consideration. In our eyes you are all winners.

DFMWR Administration

Another way we know we are reaching our customers is through social media – a topic touched on by our fabulous contributing author, Sarah Walpert, in her article This Ain’t your Daughter’s Facebook. Social media has grown rapidly in both number of users and in its functionality. What many thought was a fleeting trend has become a solid communication tool and on capable of galvanizing masses into action. We love the interaction we achieve through our Facebook page; it’s wonderful to get feedback directly from the very people we serve. Become our friend and we can hear more from you too!

Mr. James T. Green Director, DFMWR Midgee Hazelrigs Chief, FMD Kim Lyons Marketing Director

FYI Advertising and Sales

Anna Gaillard Corporate Sponsorship & Sales Manager

Contact Information Darling Hall, Room 337 P.O. Box 7180 Fort Gordon, GA 30905 Office 706.791.6779 Fax 706.791.7189 Editor 706.791.6234 Sales 706.791.3912

In the meantime, I’d better get back to the conference. After all, if I don’t do what’s required of me now, I won’t have time to hop on Facebook later!

www.fortgordon.com

w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m • A p r i l 2 0 1 1

5


6

A p r i l 2 0 1 1 • w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m


w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m • A p r i l 2 0 1 1

7


8

A p r i l 2 0 1 1 • w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m


w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m • A p r i l 2 0 1 1

9


10

A p r i l 2 0 1 1 • w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m


w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m • A p r i l 2 0 1 1

11


I hope you are enjoying these early spring days. Speaking of spring, Spring Fest is quickly approaching May 5-8, 2011 on Barton Field and this year it’s gonna be spiced with some serious Latino flavor! Watch this space for more information. I also want to remind you about the USMC Mud Challenge which this year is scheduled for May 14. Jerry “Swami” Swain DFMWR Special Events Coordinator This event gets bigger and bigger every year! Just like last year and the year before that, there will be a mini 1-mile course for the children which will share five of the obstacles with the adult course! Participants will get t-shirts while they last, so register early.

The course is 5 miles long this year with a couple of new obstacles and mud, mud, and more mud. If you haven’t had an opportunity to attend this event, you are really missing out big time: just the names and attire the teams wear is worth the price of the ticket! We will have bleachers setup up at the most popular obstacles. If one of your New Year’s resolutions was to get into better shape, what are you waiting for? Grab three of your buddies, come up with some crazy name for your team, and have the most fun you possibly can getting muddy! Oh, by the way, the firemen at the finish line will be more than happy to hose you off!

For more information on the Fort Gordon Marine Mud Challenge, go to our website, www.fortgordon.com or e-mail marinemudchallenge@yahoo.com.

12

A p r i l 2 0 1 1 • w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m


w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m • A p r i l 2 0 1 1

13


14

A p r i l 2 0 1 1 • w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m


Have you met an organ transplant recipient? Is a friend or family member awaiting a transplant? Have you heard about a family who supported their loved one’s decision to donate organs and tissue? This April, during the federally sanctioned National Donate Life Month, LifeLink of Georgia and Dwight D. Eisenhower Army Medical Center honor the spirit of those individuals who make transplants possible—organ, tissue and eye donors. The lives of individuals who received their second chance is celebrated - and finally, attention is called to the more than 110,000 - over 3,100 of whom are local - men, women and children who still wait across the United States. Yul Brown knows all too well about the intense wait for a transplant. A natural leader, Yul continued to serve as a city councilman for McDonough, Georgia, while undergoing dialysis to combat the effects of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. “I was tired all the time, but I felt like, ‘bring it on.’ I made it mind over matter.” He took his can-do attitude throughout his community, becoming a volunteer wrestling coach while waiting for his transplant. “It was another way for me to give back,” Yul says. And after 11 years of dialysis treatments, his ability to continue giving back came from someone else committed to others: an organ donor. “It has been a life-changing experience...the future is bright. I’m still here and hopefully I’m still making a difference. And I am very grateful.”

Another family touched by organ donation is the Wildes family, although their story is very different from that of Yul Brown. Behind the mountain of teddy bears and Amanda Wildes’ ready smile lies Madeline’s Mission, a program which delivers teddy bears to children’s hospitals in Georgia. Amanda and Landon founded the project after losing their seven-month-old daughter, Madeline Anne, to bacterial meningitis.

Another way to become a donor is to sign up on Georgia’s donor registry when you renew your driver license or identification card. Be sure to tell your family about your decision.

“It’s our hope that through Madeline’s Mission, individuals will realize the importance of organ donation,” says Amanda. By allowing Madeline to become an organ donor, the Wildes helped save the lives of three people. Madeline’s Mission is further testament to the family’s generosity. The bears are given to children waiting for life-saving transplants and other medical procedures.

Minority Perspectives on Organ & Tissue Donation

Organ donation, with the primary exception of living kidney donation, takes place after death and provides the gift of life to tens of thousands each year through heart, kidney, lung, liver, and pancreas or intestine transplants. Without the generosity of organ donors, those waiting will die. “This month we challenge everyone to focus on the lives saved by transplantation and the continued need which grows every day in our communities,” says Kathleen Lilly, Executive Director of LifeLink of Georgia. “Please make a commitment to learn more about donation. One organ & tissue donor can help as many as 60 people. Your commitment today can make all the difference for those in desperate need.” LifeLink of Georgia will host a donor designation station at Dwight D. Eisenhower Army Medical Center on Wednesday, April 13th from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the third floor outside of Ike’s Cafe. Stop by and learn more about donation and Georgia’s organ and tissue donor registry.

w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m • A p r i l 2 0 1 1

Visit www.lifelinkfound.org or call 1-800544-6667 with questions about organ and tissue donation.

By the Numbers: More than 50% of people on the waiting list for organ transplants are members of minority groups. Nationally, 35% of patients listed for a kidney transplant are African American. In Georgia, the percentage is significantly increased to nearly 66%. 1 in every 3 African Americans has high blood pressure - a leading cause of kidney failure. Minorities suffer higher rates of the diseases which can lead to kidney failure. Native Americans have the highest rate of diabetes, followed by African Americans and Hispanics.* Matching organs between members of the same racial and ethnic group often enhances successful transplantation. An increase in organ donation among minorities can lead to earlier and more successful transplants, especially for African Americans. * American Diabetes Association LifeLink of Georgia is a non-profit community service organization dedicated to the recovery of organs and tissues for transplantation.

15


16

A p r i l 2 0 1 1 • w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m


Yo-Yo Exercise:

The Effects of Erratic Exercise As we are at the end of the first quarter of 2011, many New Year’s resolutions are now an unfortunate distant memory. While many of us have seen reports on the negative effect of yo-yo dieting, new research shows that yo-yo exercise can make fitness gains even harder to achieve. According to a new study from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, the consequences of quitting exercise may be greater than previously thought. The study, conducted by Paul Williams of Berkeley Lab’s Life Sciences Division, found that the key to staying trim is to remain active year-round, year after year, and to avoid seasonal and irregular exercise patterns. Most of all, don’t quit. Stopping regular exercise may be a contributing factor in the nation’s obesity epidemic. Using data collected from the National Runners Health Study, Williams found that the impacts of increasing and decreasing vigorous exercise aren’t the same among all runners. At distances above 20 miles per week in men and 10 miles per week in women, the pounds gained by running less were about the same as the pounds lost by running more. At these exercise levels, the effects of training and quitting training are comparable, and the weight gains and losses associated with changes in exercise levels are probably reversible. Williams found that people who didn’t run as many miles per week face an uphill battle if they want to lose the pounds accumulated during an exercise hiatus. At these less intense levels, an interruption in exercise produces weight gain that is not lost by simply resuming the same exercise regimen.

four times as much weight as those who decreased their distance from 25 to 20 miles per week. He also found that people who started running after an exercise layoff didn’t lose weight until their mileage exceeded 20 miles per week in men, and 10 miles per week in women. Williams says his findings suggest that an effective public health policy for preventing weight gain may need to include a strategy to keep physically active people Randy Taylor active. His study also underscores Gordon Fitness Center Manager the importance of avoiding startstop exercise patterns. Exercise designed to prevent obesity may fall short of its benefits if the exercise is irregular, seasonal, or often interrupted. We are getting fat because we don’t exercise sufficiently and consistently. The real solution to the obesity epidemic is getting people to exercise before they think they need it, and to stick with it. An ounce of prevention is indeed worth a pound of cure. A study by Williams published in the same journal in August, 2007, revealed that middle-age weight gain is reduced by one-half in runners who ran 30 or more miles per week, compared to runners who ran less than 15 miles per week. These results, with this more recent study, suggest a new way of tackling the obesity problem.

At lower mileages, there is asymmetric weight gain and loss from increasing and decreasing exercise, leading to an expected weight gain from an exercise hiatus, says Williams. “In other words, if you stop exercising, you don’t get to resume where you left off if you want to lose weight.”

Many scientists attribute the obesity epidemic to excess calories rather than exercise, because dieting has been shown to produce more weight loss than exercise. Williams’s findings suggest that calorie intake and body weight may be self regulating in active individuals. The study, (Asymmetric Weight Gain and Loss From Increasing and Decreasing Exercise) is published in the February 2008 issue of the journal Medicine & Science in Sports and Exercise. It was supported in part by grants from the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute. So keep your exercise regimen and diet consistent. Bottom line: stay away from yo-yo diet and yo-yo exercise!

Williams compared 17,280 men and 5,970 women who decreased their running distance with 4,632 men and 1,953 women who increased their running distance over a 7.7-year period. He found that runners who decreased their distance from five to zero miles per week gained

Resources: The Journal Medicine & Science in Sports and Exercise U.S. Department of Energy Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory National Runners’ Health Study

w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m • A p r i l 2 0 1 1

17


18

A p r i l 2 0 1 1 • w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m


w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m • A p r i l 2 0 1 1

19


National Volunteer Week is 10-16 April 2011. As Fort Gordon prepares to join the nation in recognizing the efforts of those who volunteer their time, energy, and talents in support of their communities, we spoke with a few installation volunteers “who are definitely all that and a bag of chips!” Paul Schoeller: Originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Mr. Schoeller is living his dream as an American Red Cross volunteer. Since November 2010, he has been volunteering in the Same Day Surgical Clinic as a patient escort. When asked why he chose this position, Mr. Schoeller explained that he always wanted to volunteer in a hospital pushing a wheelchair. Being able to express his appreciation and admiration for the military is an added bonus. Mr. Schoeller worked with NCR for 36 years, 12 of those years as a project manager. When his wife retired two years ago they moved to the CSRA to be closer to their two grandchildren. As he reflected on the differences between his time with NCR and nowadays with the American Red Cross he commented “I smile more with this job than any I’ve ever had. I’m generally happier and like the opportunity to help someone for no reason.” Calculating the distance between the clinic and the front door at Eisenhower as ¼ mile, Mr. Schoeller adds that he is also able to exercise as he works. Jackie Smith: “Knowing that your efforts are genuinely appreciated means a lot. I love and enjoy spending time with my Army family,” explained Ms. Smith. As a volunteer with the 369th Signal Battalion Family Readiness Group, First Vice President and Cook Book Chairperson for the Fort Gordon Spouses and Civilian Club, Interior Decorations Chairperson and elf for Christmas House, Army Family Action Plan delegate, and Freedom Park Elementary School PTA member, the hours spent add up quickly. “Wherever we’ve been stationed, we’ve always looked for programs that support children. Volunteering provides an external outlet for things I like to do.” And finally, “It makes you feel good to do what you want and not because you have to.”

20

Chassidy (Chas) Kear: Her business card reads Independent Beach Body Coach. Balfour Bodies is a new fitness/exercise program being offered twice a week at the Balfour Beatty community center and led by Ms. Kear. Being a volunteer soccer coach and head cheerleading coach aren’t her only outlets for keeping busy. Ms. Kear is a media center and classroom volunteer at Freedom Park Elementary School, serves on the Army Family Team Building Advisory Council, is an Army Family Action Plan Transcriber and Planning Committee member, and supports the 73rd Ordnance Battalion Family Readiness Group. What is her motivation for volunteering? “It helps me to be a part of the community. I’ve learned so much and it’s fun!” Patricia (Pat) Branson: If you think that eight heart attacks, nine by-pass surgeries, three pacemakers, and two defibrillators would slow a person down--then chances are you’ve never met Pat Branson. She began volunteering at her hometown hospital in Indianapolis, Indiana during World War II. She has been an American Red Cross volunteer since 1961. Ms. Branson volunteered in Occupational Therapy from 1985-91 and continues in the Surgical Clinic since 2002. Once a week she reports for duty at DDEAMC at 0515. Reflecting on why she continues to make a difference in the community at a time when others her age are cutting back, she mused “You have to keep moving or you stop. Whatever the reason, get out of the house, you’ll live longer!” Dana Koester: As a former Marine, Ms. Koester voluntarily supports several programs as a means of “giving back”, supporting her daughter, and because she believes in the programs and their missions. Those programs include the Girl Scouts of America, Harlem Library Association, North

A p r i l 2 0 1 1 • w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m


Harlem Elementary School PTA, Fort Gordon Spouses and Civilians Club, Army Family Team Building, and the Army Family Action Plan. Asked if she has learned anything about herself through volunteering, Ms. Koester replied “I’ve learned that volunteering is enjoyable and makes me feel good. The best part of living is to learn something new every day. I love what I’m doing, I just want to continue.” Samhari Stanley: This busy high school student still schedules time to make a difference on Fort Gordon and the surrounding community. A frequent FYI contributor, Ms. Stanley volunteers with the American Red Cross, Army Community Service, Dream Builders of America’s Youth Inc., Harmony Baptist Church, and People to People Student Ambassadors. When asked what she has learned about herself through volunteering, this multi-talented young lady replied “As I continue to volunteer, I realize that I am making a difference. As human beings we all need help at some point. As volunteers we give that help freely. In fact, we pay others not only with service, but also a smile.”

2011 National Volunteer Week Events: •

Post-wide Volunteer Picnic April 13, 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. at Sportsmen’s Complex

Command Program on April 14, 2 p.m. – 3 p.m., in Alexander Hall Everyone is invited!

w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m • A p r i l 2 0 1 1

21


22

A p r i l 2 0 1 1 • w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m


w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m • A p r i l 2 0 1 1

23


24

A p r i l 2 0 1 1 • w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m


It’s that time again, you’ve just heard that your unit will be deploying. You are excited about the mission and you feel this gripping in your gut. You think what’s that - then you’re reminded that you must go home and tell your family. Soldier: At the dinner table everyone is chatting about their day and you chime in and say, guess what? The unit is deploying again. The table becomes silent, the mood changes, all eyes are on you. You realize that excitement you had about the deployment is not exactly what your family is feeling right now. You assure them by saying, hey guys, I’m not leaving tomorrow. You hear that sighs of relief and you begin to tell them that you’ve been alerted and you expect to be leaving in the next few months. Spouse: You say to yourself, here we go again. You ponder what it was like the last time. You remember the high points, the low points, what you did well and what you should probably contemplate on doing better. You reflect on the Family Readiness Group meetings you attended. You recall those individuals that were so important to you during the last deployment that you’ve neglected to call. You remember those times that you had no childcare and you immediately notice the children are staring at you. You don’t realize your facial expression has changed drastically. You’re deep in thought. You say “what, do I have broccoli in my teeth?” The mood changes and everyone laughs out loud. Teen: You’ve just heard your parent is deploying and all you can think about is “am I going to have to be the man of the house again?” You say to yourself, “I’m 16 years old. I have a life too. I don’t want to babysit!” You’re front has not been compromised by facial expressions or body language so no questions have been asked. Child: You’ve just heard your parent is deploying. You don’t really understand everything but you know your parent is going away. You’re saddened but it’s not happening now so you’re OK. You’re quiet because you sense the mood at the table has changed. You ask “what’s wrong with everybody?” For anyone who’s been through the above scenario, you can identify with the feelings expressed. Repeated deployments are a part of military life but we never really get accustomed to them. We just learn to “play the hand we’re dealt.” To better equip you and your family for “life changes” a good place to begin is by attending pre-deployment briefings before the deployment to get a better per-

w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m • A p r i l 2 0 1 1

spective on what’s going to happen, when it’s going to happen, and what resources are available to help. Attending Family Readiness Group (FRG) meetings are also a good source of information and it’s a place where you can receive support and understanding. You also receive unit updates as well. Providing good contact information is also key for those times you can’t attend meetings, your unit can still send you information through email or a newsletter. Keeping abreast of what’s happening locally and in theater (as much as the unit is able to share). Should you leave the area, always notify the unit and ensure they have your up-to-date contact information. Bad things happen to good people every day. The Army respects your privacy and wants to act as timely and as respectful as possible. Have a good plan and a back-up plan for emergency childcare. It’s important that Families discuss this together prior to deployment so both of you are on the same sheet of music. Ensuring the proper paperwork is completed is key to ensure family wellness. It is always recommended that you get a battle buddy during the deployment. Someone you can lean on FOR support and one that YOU can support. We’ve been there and done that several times, but it never hurts to prepare. Each deployment is different and requires that we remain vigilant. Army Community Service stands ready to support families with volunteer and employment opportunities, assist with financial planning, and provide information and referral and so much more. There is also a Waiting Spouse Support Group that meets at the Family Outreach Center (behind Woodworth Library) on the 3rd Tuesday of each month. You’ll meet friends, learn about upcoming events, share stories and do fun activities. For families with small children, there is a toddler play group that meets twice weekly and a support program for new parents. For those who can’t get out for whatever reason, Military One Source is the perfect tool for you. It’s available 24/7, in over 150 languages and you can download information from their site. They even send information directly to your home if you like. Bottom line: there are many resources for support. You’re encouraged to tap into every one and “be the best you can be” during your spouses’ deployment. For more information on deployment support, contact Shawn Williams at shawn.williams1@us.army.mil or Yvette Edwards at yvette.edwards@us.army.mil or call Army Community Service at (706) 791-3579, or visit us online at www.gordon.army.mil/acs.

25


26

A p r i l 2 0 1 1 • w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m


w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m • A p r i l 2 0 1 1

27


28

A p r i l 2 0 1 1 • w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m


My name is Beverly O’Hara. I was a sergeant in the Army when I was diagnosed with Lupus. It started in March of 1989 when I came home from a week of training on post. My mother noticed that something was wrong with me - it seems that mothers always know when something is wrong with their children - she told me to see a doctor at post. I went to the doctor the next day and showed him the rash on my face and forearms. I also told him that I had a loss of appetite, insomnia, and a general lack of energy. He sent me to see a dermatologist (a specialist in treating skin diseases) that very same day. After his initial examination, he told me that he needed to take some blood samples and a few biopsies (cutting a small piece of skin/tissue to be examined). He asked me if I had ever heard of discoid lupus and I told him no. He said that he thought that was what I had but would need time for all of the tests to come back. About two weeks later I had my follow-up appointment and he told me that I had Systemic Lupus Erythematosis (a disease in which the body’s immune system attacks itself). He made a consultation for me to see a Rheumatologist (a doctor that specializes in rheumatic diseases) at the post hospital. When I saw the Rheumatologist, he confirmed that I had Systemic Lupus Erythematosis and said that it was internal and external. He also stated that I would have problems if I was around people that were sick because my immune system would not be able to fight being sick like a healthy person would. He also said that I would have to stay out of the sun and not get dehydrated from the heat during the summer. He put me on prednisone (a steroid drug), some anti-inflammatory drugs, and some steroid creams for my face and forearms. During that summer I had problems with my joints and dehydration. The first major thing that happened to me was pleurisy (fluid was trapped between the lung and its outer lining on my left side). They used Lasix, a medication used to help rid the body of excess fluid. After a couple of episodes with pleurisy they had to stick a needle into my back, just passing through inside the lining to drain the excess fluid because the lining tissue was getting to thick/ rigid making it hard for my lung to fully expand. The pleurisy started around October/November time frame in 1989 and into 1990. Around October 1990 I had both pleurisy and pericarditis (fluid trapped between my heart and its outer lining). When this happened they knew something had to be done. So, around October 29th, I had to have major surgery where they cut open the chest cavity and took part of the lining off of my left

w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m • A p r i l 2 0 1 1

lung and a piece out of the lining of my heart in order for my heart and lung to function better. Since then, I have had surgery on my hips, shoulder, and gall bladder. I also had two episodes of shingles (aka: Herpes Zoster) where a bumpy/painful rash formed on my leg. I felt I had to be curled up in order to be comfortable. Having kidney failure was another tough issue, but they started me on chemotherapy and it took about 3 years of it in order for my kidney to function properly. On May 13th, 2006, my mother and I were going to the mall when I started in a cold sweat and pain on the left side of the heart and shoulder. She turned around and took me to the emergency room on post. They did an EKG, drew blood, and gave me nitroglycerine. They also took a chest x-ray and put me on a heart monitor. They admitted me to the hospital and the very next morning, they ran the same tests again and the cardiologist came up and told me that he was taking me down to the catheterization lab to put a stent in. I had a 99.9% blood clot in my left anterior descending artery. That was another close call for me but, like I have said to many of my friends, I have been blessed. Twenty of my past twenty-two years I was off and on high doses of steroids, resulting in the diagnosis of Avascular Necrosis (it’s where your bone starts to die) and that is why I had the surgeries to my hips and shoulder. I make myself do every physical thing (walking) as normal as possible. Yes, sometimes I still have pain but it is nothing in comparison to what I had before the surgeries. Having a good doctor-patient relationship really helps too, it makes everything less stressful. I don’t have to repeat my history to him all of the time he truly knows what I have been through; it is because of him that I have been steroid free for the past two years. I know that without the support of my family, friends, and some truly wonderful doctors I would not be writing this now. I am a fighter and stubborn. It is also very important for people with lupus or any other disease to search for support groups. I am currently a co-facilitator for the Augusta Lupus Support Group, which just had its first meeting in January 2011. Our main goal is to listen, educate, and help lupus patients with a strong support network. For more information about Lupus, you can go to the Lupus Foundation of America Georgia Chapter at www. lfaga.org or call (770) 333-5930. You can also contact me locally at (706) 394-6484 for local updates.

29


30

A p r i l 2 0 1 1 • w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m


w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m • A p r i l 2 0 1 1

31


32

A p r i l 2 0 1 1 • w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m


w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m • A p r i l 2 0 1 1

33


34

A p r i l 2 0 1 1 • w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m


The Month of the Military Child is an opportunity for us to celebrate the strength, flexibility and resilience of our military children. While military Families understand the need to be flexible, the experience often proves to be hard for America’s military children. These children often bear a heavy burden; supporting their parents and demonstrating this support with pride. Their contribution to our military community should not be overlooked, or dismissed; they are our everyday heroes and they deserve to be honored. Family and MWR places children - along with our service members - at the center of its mission. We believe our commitment to them must factor into all that we do. Our facilities, events and programs, where appropriate, are designed with them in mind. But even the most obvious activities can be overlooked when a parent is in the throes of everyday mayhem, so we want to share with you some of the ways that FMWR is for kids.

CYSS

Child, Youth and School Services (CYSS) is an obvious place to start – but did you know that CYSS offers more than school services and child care? CYSS programs exist to promote the positive, healthy development of young people. This division understands that through interesting, challenging, and developmentally appropriate experiences, children and youth are able to reach their full potential. CYSS has created some great programs, to include lock-ins. One of its lock-ins has been created specifically for the Month of the Military Child: “Youth: The Real Heroes” is for CYSS Youth Program Members - 6th to 12th grades – and is free of charge. The program schedule, which starts Friday April 29th and finishes Saturday April 30th, is as follows: Skating Competition at Skateland: 6.30 – 8 p.m. Youth will compete in various competitions to include; most creative moves, dancing competition and fastest youth circling the skating rink (of course while wearing skates) Adventure Crossing: 8.30 – 11.30 p.m. Field trip to Adventure Crossing, Military Reflections (Pizza & Drink): 8.30 – 9 p.m. Youth will talk about how deployments have affected their families, their routine and them, the Military Family Life Consultant will be available for youth questions/ concerns. At 9 p.m., youth will break into four teams to compete against each other in laser tag, Go-kart racing & Arcade games. Midnight Basketball Tournament: 12– 3 a.m. Youth will participate in a basketball tournament against staff members and volunteers.

CYSS Childcare wins Customer Service Award! Congratulations to the ladies of Room 2 at the Child Development Center. At the February CIB, Customer Service awards were given to Cathye Council- Education Tech, Yolanda Deal- Education Tech, Yeny Ramirez- Lead CYPA, Patricia Williams- CPYPA Assistant, and Arquilla McMillian- Education Tech. The employee customer service award program is designed to foster, encourage and sustain a responsive and active customer service climate throughout the garrison by recognizing outstanding employee customer service attitudes and efforts. Essentially, this means our ladies had to earn this recognition by demonstrating a customer-first mindset through their daily actions and interactions with customers. Speaking from experience, these women are definitely customerminded and their smiles in the midst of sheer chaos are a sight to behold! Their approach to their daily work puts a parent’s mind at ease when they leave their child at the Center. Ms Ramirez explained “At the Child Development Center, we work to make the children feel like this is their second home.” This perspective requires effort! As Ms. Deal said, “It’s treating both internal and external customers as you would want to be treated.” Clearly this is a winning approach!

“The Real Heroes” Dance: 3 – 5:30 a.m. And the dance is on! All youth will celebrate themselves as the Real Heroes in a dance that includes a DJ and a variety of finger foods. Breakfast/Departure: 5:30 a.m. – 6 a.m. For more information, contact Evelyn Guzman, Youth Program Facility Director, at (706) 791-4446.

w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m • A p r i l 2 0 1 1

35


School Age Services

School Age Services (SAS) is also providing activities during the Month of the Military Child. For more information on the following, contact Darren Brown at (706) 791-5127. Tuesday, April 5 - Field trip to Riverbanks Zoo 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Wednesday, April 6 - Field trip to Georgia Aquarium 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Thursday, April 7 - Field trip to Adventure Crossing 10:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. Friday, April 8 - Ice Cream Social for children and parents starting at 3 p.m.

Hilltop Riding Stable

Most of you know about Hilltop: voted best local place to ride by Columbia County Magazine, miles of trails, summer camps, and much more. But did you know it also has a fabulous picnic area as well as playground for younger children? Did you know that by attending one of Heidi Mohr’s camps, your child will not only get experience on the back of a horse, but will also learn about how to groom that horse and how to take care of the stables? And that Hilltop Riding Stable also provides Family Fun Days for parents and children; the child rides for the standard price and the parent gets a 50% discount!

Woodworth Library

Woodworth Library hosts a range of programs and activities for children – from annual events such as its pumpkin carving in October, and its reading program in the summer, to one-time events such as special book readings and signings. The awesome crew at Woodworth is celebrating National Library Week in the month of April, and the team wants you to enjoy the celebrations too! As well as giving away balloons, cookies and popcorn, Woodworth is rewarding readers with some real treats! For instance, take the Libraries in Cinema trivia quiz at the library between Thursday the 7th and the 17th and you could win a fabulous prize: see the ad on page 14 for details.

While having fun this summer, the Aquatics Manager, Cheryl Vineyard, wants you to remember the following water safety tips: 1. Reapply sun block often. Being in the water or a spray park will wash away the sunscreen faster than under normal conditions. 2. Always be aware of your child location in and around water. Pre-toddlers and Toddlers are very top heavy. This means they are prone to tripping over and not being able to correct themselves. It can take a person 20-60 seconds to drown. Do you know where your child is? 3. It is important that your child learns to enjoy swimming; however, pools with lifeguards are not an acceptable form of day care. Drowning is among the leading causes of death for children. Also, putting water wings, life jackets, etc on your child, then allowing them to jump off the diving board or slide down is frowned upon. Water wings are notorious for slipping off arms; lifejackets are rarely fitted correctly causing them to break or child to slip out.

Gordon Lanes

Gordon Lanes has a fantastic youth bowling program and welcomes approximately 75 kids every Saturday morning. The Lanes has certified coaches and all kids play in teams. Starting in June, Gordon Lanes will host a 10 week program that allows all kids to bowl: through the Have a Ball program, all participating kids receive a new bowling ball! Not to exclude anyone, Gordon Lanes also provides Dragon ramps for kids 4 and under, which means bowling ain’t just for big folks anymore!

36

A p r i l 2 0 1 1 • w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m


Selected among several local outstanding youth, Ashleigh Williams will compete against other Boys & Girls Club members for the Georgia Youth of the Year title and a $1,000 college scholarship from Tupperware Brands Corporation. As the new Youth of the Year for the Child, Youth & School Services (CYSS) Youth Program, 17 year old Ashleigh is a true example of an extraordinary young woman recognized by Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) for her sound character, leadership skills and willingness to give back to the community. Being named Youth of the Year is the highest honor a Boys & Girls Club member can receive. As BGCA’s premier youth recognition program, Youth of the Year recognizes outstanding contributions to a member’s family, school, community and Boys & Girls Club, as well as overcoming personal challenges and obstacles. Youth of the Year encourages Club members to reach their full potential by achieving academic success, leading healthy lifestyles and contributing to their communities. Youth of the Year honorees are shining examples and living proof that great futures start at Boys & Girls Clubs. “Ashleigh is an extraordinary role model for all youth, she is an example of what good character in all aspects is, I truly feel honored to have Ashleigh as a member of our club.” said Evelyn Guzman, CYSS Youth Program Facility Director. Ashliegh is a military child – her mother is a disabled vet. Ashleigh has faced many hardships in life, such as being raised in a single parent home. “My mother has been sick most of her life, and while she is making sure my brother and I have a stable living environment; I always have to step up to the plate and make sure the household is being taking care of” said Ashleigh. Ashleigh has been an active member of the Fort Gordon CYSS Youth Program since 2006, not only having an impressive attendance record but also helping in planning and executing special events such as dances, field trips and fashion shows. She has been selected by her peers as the Keystone Club president two years in a row; she is our Region Teen Panel Representative, and also a member of the CYSS HIRED! Apprenticeship Program. A

w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m • A p r i l 2 0 1 1

program that provides youth 15 to 18 years valuable paid work experience and training to better equip them with the skills needed for a highly-competitive job market. Ashleigh has done her part in her community; she has volunteered with the American Red Cross for three years now, and has earned over 1,000 volunteer hours. The last two years Ashleigh has been the Youth Coordinator for the summer youth volunteer program in her church. Ashleigh has also volunteered yearly to help wrap gifts for children in foster care. She has also helped organize blood drives with her club at school and every year she donates blood to the Shepherd’s blood blank. Ashleigh is an outstanding student in school. She is currently a junior at AR Johnson Health Science & Engineering Magnet School. She is a dual enrollment student at Augusta Technical College where she is studying to become a pharmacy technician. She manages both college and high school at the same time while keeping up her grades. She is a proud member and officer of HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) which focuses on health and medical occupations, and she is also a member of the AR Johnson tennis team. Ashleigh plans to study at Mercer University after graduating from high school. She hopes to major in Pharmacy with a minor in Political Science. After graduating college, she plans on going into the United States Air Force, where she wants to serve her country with pride. After she retires from the military, she plans to open up her own pharmacy. If Ashleigh wins at the state competition, she will compete for the title of South East Region Youth of the Year and an additional $10,000 scholarship from Tupperware Brands© (the recognition program’s national sponsor). Five regional winners will advance to Washington, D.C., in September 2011, to compete for the title of BGCA’s National Youth of the Year. The National Youth of the Year will receive an additional scholarship of up to $50,000 from The Rick and Susan Goings Foundation, and will have the opportunity to meet with the President of the United States in the White House. Good luck Ashleigh!

37


By Sarah Walpert We are in the midst of a social revolution – a social MEDIA revolution. Thanks to the movie The Social Network, many of us are aware of the beginnings of Facebook. A few brilliant computer nerds holed up in a dorm room at Harvard created an online community for students to interact with each other, essentially redefining social life for college students forever. A new language developed for any social situation – instead of “call me,” it was “friend me.” Instead of asking for a copy of a picture from a fun night out, one simply said, “tag me!” Soon after came the Twitter phenomenon. The public could share witty updates or “tweets” with each other in 140 characters or less. Immediately people questioned the legitimacy of these social networks. There was criticism that our lives were becoming too public, that online profiles fueled narcis-

38

sism, or that this new fad was just a big fat waste of time. However, as Facebook, Twitter, and the ensuing social networks continued to spread like wildfire, it is safe to say that the rest of the world began to adapt. As Facebook began to expand to communities other than college students, its purpose began to evolve into something greater. It was suddenly a way for past classmates from decades back to reconnect. It provided an outlet to grieve a loved one who had passed on. It was a site to share pictures with family thousands of miles away. This includes our military communities, who have been able to access the site in the middle east and in other parts of the world, providing a piece of comfort and connection to home during difficult times of deployment.

A p r i l 2 0 1 1 • w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m


Businesses soon followed suit and before long companies not only had websites, but they used Facebook and Twitter pages as additional information outlets. Whether this was to publish breaking headlines, give to-the-minute updates on popular culture, or to promote a product, companies have embraced social media as a not only a new marketing tool, but a tool very necessary to compete in today’s market. In addition to promoting either one’s personal life or company, the social media trend has taken an interesting turn in the activism arena. Companies promoting a cause or social movement have caught wind of the effectiveness of social media (especially when trying to catch the attention of the coveted 18-24 year old demographic) and have transformed networks such as Facebook and Twitter from social media to social tools that are truly making a difference. In fact, the bold argument can be made that social networks are indeed making the world a better place.

Facebook page run by Egyptians in protest of President Hosni Mubarak made a list of demands to the government. They wanted Mubarak to declare that neither he nor his son will run for future presidential elections, dissolve the parliament and hold new elections, end emergency laws giving police extensive powers of arrest and detention, release all prisoners including protesters and those who have been in jail for years without charge or trial, and immediately fire the interior minister. More than 85,000 people pledged to attend the protest on the Facebook page. This widespread social media protesting caused Egyptian officials to take drastic measures in an attempt to restore order, resulting in an unprecedented internet blackout (including internet and text messaging on mobile devices) across the entire country of Egypt. Internet was shut off for five days in Egypt in an attempt to diffuse protest organization among Egypt’s 5 million Facebook users. According to TIME Magazine, “observers say that Facebook is easier than word of mouth or cell-phone use for the government to monitor. Some say the [internet blackout] strategy makes events actually more of a free-for-all and less tactical as an instrument of dissent.” During just two weeks of escalated protesting, around 32,000 groups and 14,000 pages were created on Facebook regarding the Egypt conflicts. These events prove that social networks have the power to serve as a political megaphone, not just uniting people based on interests, but also based on common beliefs and ideals.

At first, this idea seems impossible, comical even. However, you don’t have to look far to see how companies have leveraged social media to make a change. Ever heard of charity: water? charity: water is a non-profit organization bringing clean and safe drinking water to people in developing nations. 100% of public donations directly fund water projects (http://www.charitywater.org). In just a few years, this organization has raised over millions of dollars to provide over 1.8 million people with clean water. Their fundrais- Fundraising and charity work are not the only Ask anyone and their opinion ing campaign focuses on chalof social networks will differ. As new trends in social media. Facebook and lenging others to give donations much as people have resisted toward a well in lieu of presents Twitter have added a whole new element to the the dawn of social media on our on one’s birthday. One does this culture, it is important to accept world of politics by emailing, Facebooking, or that social networks are most Tweeting to their personal and/or professional networks. likely here to stay, and if we can adapt and adjust these No one truly understood what a viral effect this campaign are powerful tools that can compliment any business or could have until former American Idol Season 8 runner-up movement. Perhaps what is most exciting about this new Adam Lambert tweeted to his 900,000 Twitter followers phenomenon is the passion among young people demthat he would like donations to charity: water instead of onstrated through these networks. Although it is a virtual presents. Not only did fans listen by donating, but they passion at first, the examples above prove that tangible donated over $115,000 in ONE DAY toward water projects, results are possible. Young people have a point of view in turn crashing the charity: water website for hours. All of and aren’t afraid to share it. They are engaging in politithis happened as a result of one tweet – less than 140 charcal debate and, although it may make our grandparents acters. Lambert’s fans have since raised over $290,000 cringe, they are staying informed through these social in the weeks following his birthday, thus providing 14,500 networks because they are being spoken to in a language people with clean drinking water. During the website crash, they understand and care about. So what if young people charity: water used their Twitter page to update fans on get breaking news from the CNN Twitter feed? Or donate when the site would be back up and ready for donations, to charity through a Facebook page? As long as they’re and thanked everyone for the kindness that caused the being responsible citizens and contributing to society in crash in the first place. That’s a first – a company thanking a way that it is familiar and comfortable, then everybody people for crashing their site?! Since the success of the wins. And that, my friends, is something to update your Adam Lambert campaign, several other celebrities have Facebook status about. “tweeted” that they will be giving up presents on their birthday for charity: water as well, including Justin Bieber, Sources: Jessica Biel, and Jaden Smith. www.time.com www.huffingtonpost.com Fundraising and charity work are not the only new trends www.charitywater.org in social media. Facebook and Twitter have added a whole www.twitter.com new element to the world of politics. Unfortunately, we are all too familiar with the unrest in the Middle East. However, recent events in Egypt reached new heights once Facebook and Twitter were factored into the equation. Angry citizens were rallied, protests were organized, and chaos ensued, all within the pages of Facebook. In particular, a

w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m • A p r i l 2 0 1 1

39


Slam poetry began in 1985 when a construction worker and poet, Marc Smith aka Slampapi, started a poetry reading series at a Chicago jazz club, the Get Me High Lounge. Smith was looking for a way to breathe life into poetry through an open mike format, also referred to as the spoken word. Smith and his poetry series laid the foundation for this free style type of poetry and performance. Ultimately, slam poetry spread across the world like wildfire and is now an international art form based on audience involvement and poetic excellence. Boris “Bluz” Rogers has a plethora of poetic expression and his work is known to test the boundaries of the poetic world. Growing up a military dependent, Bluz came from humble, southern beginnings. Although he didn’t always aspire to become a great poet, a high school teacher recognized his incredible talent and encouraged him to write about his feelings. After high school, Bluz did what made sense. He enrolled at UNC Charlotte and majored in communications and journalism. This became another outlet for the powerhouse poet. Along with being active in the Charlotte community, Bluz is the slam master and coach of SlamCharlotte – a competitive team of poets who have been led to back to back National Poetry Slam victories in 2007 and 2008 by Bluz. Bluz, himself, is ranked 13th in the world for Poetry Slam after competing in Vancouver, Canada at the Individual World Poetry Slam competition and is also the 2008 LEAF Festival poetry slam champion. His work has been featured at the world famous Nuyorican poets Café and Bowery Poetry Club. I, unfortunately, was unable to sit down with the Slam Master himself but I was fortunate to have a Q & A session with him which allowed me to enter into his world of poetry.

40

How did you get started in Slam Poetry and what were your original poems about? Love, failed relationships? I got my start through Terry Creech. Funny story is that he initially started doing poetry because he heard me at an open mic. Then he moved to Texas where he got into slam poetry which he introduced me to when he moved back [to Charlotte]. I often laugh at the story; it’s like the circle of poetry life. A lot of my first poems were about heartbreak and love. I was writing more for audience response and superficial feedback. It wasn’t until I heard the work of Jessica Care Moore that my work truly transformed into something that sought to change minds and give inspiration to the reader. You grew up in a military family. Your father served in the Air Force and your brother was a Marine. Does any of your poetry reflect the trials and tribulations you faced as military child or the military lifestyle in itself? Some of my work reflects my brother’s time in the Marines. My work has some hints of being a military child but the majority of it reflects life in general. How did your pen name “Bluz” come to fruition? Well before I got really serious with poetry, I was in the hip hop group Ryythm-n-Bluz. As I got more and more

A p r i l 2 0 1 1 • w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m


serious about my craft, I researched the Blues. The music is a reflection of people and their stories, some good and some bad. My poetry is a reflection of people, their stories, some good and some bad. Define the true meaning behind the Spoken Word. Spoken word is the heart beat of poetry. It’s the art of storytelling but with added rhythm and style. Who are your biggest influences as an artist? That’s a good question. I would have to say Goodie Mob, Pink Floyd, Saul Williams, Common, Outkast, Allman Brothers and the list could go on forever. I am fan of music period, all genres, so depending on the music, the mood may determine how or what I write. Tell me about the work of a Slam Master and the work you do with SlamCharlotte. A Slam Master is essentially the coach of a slam poetry team. He or she will decide what poems the team will do during a competition. The slam master also handles the small details and business of a slam team. Working with Slam Charlotte, I find myself making sure the group is staying actively involved with community events and keeping on top of their craft.

What advice would you give someone who has interest in getting their voice heard and work recognized as a Slam Poet? Don’t ever quit. Keep pushing and reaching for your goals. Don’t turndown gigs, no matter how menial they may seem. Don’t be afraid to take chances, rock every open mic you can and be confident in your own skin and in your work. What is on the horizon for Bluz and how can we keep up with your latest endeavors? A new album is on the way and it should be out on iTunes by the end of May. I have a few auditions for television shows and more touring coming up. You can always find out what I’m doing by following me on twitter www.twitter.com\mrbluz or on my website: www.poetrybluz.com or on Facebook at Bluz or Fans of Bluz. References: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Boris-BluzRogers/102490713144401?v=info http://www.slampapi.com/new_site/background.htm

You work closely with the NASCAR Media Group and some of your work can be seen on such channels as the SPEED Channel. How did you get involved with NASCAR? Do you have a favorite driver? I got involved with NASCAR by almost pure luck. I did an interview similar to this one and NASCAR producer Kevin Jackson just so happened to pick up the paper that the interview ran in and read it. He read that I was a fan of NASCAR and thought it would be a good idea if we shot a video for the Brickyard 400. That one video turned into 13 videos and the rest is racing history. I’m a big Scott Speed and Kevin Harvick fan. What are some of your other collaborations? I have done several national events with RedBull, RayCom sports, The ACC, UNCC, ESPN and several other companies. What is your greatest accomplishment as a poet? I think maybe inspiring someone else to write. I have been a two time national champ, television, Emmys but none of that gives you the feeling of someone telling you that they are now inspired to write or that something that you said helped them through a difficult situation. I hear you’re a two time Emmy winner. Can you please expand on your Emmy wins? I won an Emmy working with the NASCAR media on a segment called “Inside the Headsets” and with RAYCOM sports doing a voice over for the piece “Cameron Crazies”. They were both out of no where for me. I didn’t know these kind of shows even had a category for an Emmy but apparently they do.

w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m • A p r i l 2 0 1 1

41


42

A p r i l 2 0 1 1 • w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m


w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m • A p r i l 2 0 1 1

43


Level Up is celebrating its first birthday in July and I’m thinking I’ll be there to party. A diamond in the rough, Level Up is Augusta’s newest multi-system game center located on Martinez Boulevard in Martinez. As I drove up to the building, doubts crept into my mind as to what I would find inside, but the moment I walked through the door I felt at home. In fact, my first thought was “What a great place to hang out!” The interior has been customized to provide the ultimate gaming experience, replete with comfortable seating areas, flat screen TVs, red strip lights to reduce glare and enough room for groups to enjoy their favorite games. The facility welcomes all ages – the average age of its customers is 18 - and its interior design reflects its family friendly atmosphere. However, as relaxed as it may be, the center requires patrons to keep their shirts and shoes on at all time. This policy has been enforced because customers were relaxing so much, they’d think nothing of kicking their shoes off as though they were in their own living room! I was subsequently pleased to find that not only does Level Up look good, it smells good too; quite a bonus for someone who feels nauseous when stuck in close quarters with lots of feet. The center manager, Robert, cares about his customers: “They are what it’s all about; you have to take care of your customers!” He’s not kidding either. Level Up provides its customers with a top-notch gaming facility boasting 35 gaming systems, 16 32” screens, two party suites (60” 3-D screens) with HDTV, two pool tables, an Air Hockey table, Wii, Xbox and PS3s, and some pretty sweet gaming chairs in which you can chill and play. All reasonably priced and often available through the night: Level Up hosts approximately one lock-in a month and sometimes more. In

addition to setting up all-nighters for the general public, Robert and business owner Jennifer ensure they also cater to specific events, such as birthday parties, barbeques and tournaments. Level Up is also about giving back to the community. It participated in the Toys for Tots program – the U.S. Marine’s initiative to provide less fortunate children with new, unwrapped toys as gifts throughout the community. Level Up was also one of the primary activity providers during Exodus and welcomed a number of Soldiers from the holding company. They had a blast – and they demonstrated a key difference between service members and civilians. Robert told me that while civilian players enjoy playing, the Soldiers were all about strategy while playing the first-person shooter game, Call of Duty: Black Ops, “They were all talking to each other, telling each other how to get around obstacles, warning each other of oncoming threats and so on. We really enjoyed seeing them have such a great time!” Teamwork isn’t always on the cards, especially not during tournaments. Players can compete for cash as well as other prizes, such as free day passes. For information on upcoming tournaments and opening times, check out the Level Up website, www.levelupaugusta.com, or become friends on Facebook. The Level Up Facebook page is also great for keeping up with any special prices or offers that may come up on any given day. Not that specials are really needed, Level Up’s rates are incredibly reasonable: $3 per hour and $15 for an all day pass. Regardless of the time of year, Level Up offers a military discount and will provide reasonable group rates for parties. Oh, and did I mention it’s a great place to hang out?

3837 Martinez Blvd. | Augusta, GA 30907 | 706-305-3780

44

A p r i l 2 0 1 1 • w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m


w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m • A p r i l 2 0 1 1

45


46

A p r i l 2 0 1 1 • w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m


Book: A Walk in the Woods, Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail, 1998 Author: Bill Bryson How much do you know about the Appalachian Trail? Ever thought about hiking the more than 2100 mile expanse stretching from Georgia to Maine? Yep. 2100 miles. On foot. With a 50+ pound backpack. Every year thousands of people attempt it, but only 10% actually finish. Enter travel writer Bill Bryson. Not one for touchy-feely hippie sentiment, Mr. Bryson lays out a deeply informative yet HILARIOUS account of his fragmented travels through the trail. Pick up little known facts (the trail houses more than 2,000 occurrences of rare, threatened, endangered plant and animal species, it is the largest conveyance maintained entirely by volunteers, it takes about 5 million footsteps to cross, and more) along with practical tips like how to ditch annoying trail-hoggers and/or steal their pop-tarts when needed. This is a very surprising and entertaining read for anyone needing a laugh and change of pace.

Army Library Program, FREE Audio, eBooks and MOVIES!!

Thousands of freely available Audio, e-books, and MOVIES for AKO account holders; quick and easy download right to your computer or mobile device!

Susanna Joyner Director Woodworth Consolidated Library

Did you know your Army Library Program provides all AKO account holders with free and easy online access to thousands of books and audio books? For kids, adults, school, and leisure – that’s right, it’s free and convenient – and the title selection is immense! You can download titles right to your computer or mobile device, free of charge, anytime. 1) Login to AKO 2) Select Self Service 3) Select My Library

4) Click on Read or Listen to a Book 5) Pick from any of the listed programs and enjoy!

***To browse available MOVIES, Select Army Digital Media Library, then Video. Books, movies, CDs and more are available for free check-out to Army/DOD Soldiers & Army/DOD Civilians at Woodworth Consolidated Library 549 Rice Rd. Bldg. 33500, Ft. Gordon, GA 30905 For more information call: (706) 791-7323 or visit our website at http://gordon.army.mil/dhr/library

w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m • A p r i l 2 0 1 1

47


48

A p r i l 2 0 1 1 • w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m


We’ve just come off of a tremendous run of our winter musical, Anything Goes. With incredible music by Cole Porter and a delightful romantic comedy script by iconic authors P.G. Woodhouse and Guy Bolton; it was really a special production. All totaled, we had over 150 volunteers work on this production, including actors, set and prop builders, lighting and audio crews, costumers, backstage crew, plus volunteer hosts and hostesses and more. It took 8 weeks, 6 days a week—but it was certainly worth it. With eight great performances over three weekends, the show produced lots of smiles on stage and off. I always tell the cast that if they have a great time on stage, the audience will have a great time watching the show. This certainly came true. Up against the backdrop of a gorgeous stage set (aboard the S.S .American, circa 1935), with beautiful period costumes, in partnership with an incredible live orchestra, the talented cast really connected to our audiences. BRAVO to all involved in this show.

There are roles for students in grades Kindergarten through 12th. Approximately 50-60 local students will be cast to appear in the show with the MCT Tour Actor/Directors. There is no guarantee that everyone who auditions will be cast in the play. Students wishing to audition should arrive by the scheduled starting time and plan to stay for the entire two-hour session. The first rehearsal for some cast members begins approximately 30 minutes after the auditions. ParticiSteve Walpert pation in this program is open to the entire local community. Please note Installation Entertainment Director that all adults entering Fort Gordon must have some type of valid photo ID (State DL, etc.)

We are now in rehearsal for Becky’s New Car, a fascinating comedy by Steven Dietz, author of last season’s Sherlock Holmes the Final Adventure. Another talented cast, consisting of Dinner Theatre veterans, Kay Gross, Jack McElwee, Elizabeth Walpert, Nate Dowd, Tere Luke and newcomers Rick Roush and Aubrey Dowd are now hard at work on staging, character development and learning their lines, while the production staff is creating costumes, stage settings and more as our April 29th opening night approaches.

This is a group audition - no advance preparation is necessary, but a SMILE never hurts. Participants should just be ready to come and have a good time! There is no charge for participation.

THE STORY: Have you ever been tempted to flee your own life? Becky Foster is caught in middle age, middle management and in a middling marriage-with no prospects for change on the horizon. Then one night a socially inept and grief-struck millionaire stumbles into the car dealership where Becky works. Becky is offered nothing short of a new life...and the audience is offered a chance to ride shotgun in a way that most plays wouldn’t dare. BECKY’S NEW CAR is a thoroughly original comedy with serious overtones, a devious and delightful romp down the road not taken. “Perhaps the highest praise that can be given to Steven Dietz’s praiseworthy new comedy is that it’s funny. Not ironic. Not hysterical in a slapsticky kind of way. Just gently and consistently funny-right up to the point that it’s touching, and then even a little bit after that. BECKY’S NEW CAR takes the audience on a smart, comic cruise through the perils of middle-aged longing and regret.” - Variety. Performances will be offered April 29, 30, May 13, 14, 19, 20, 21

Rehearsals will be conducted every day from 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. and 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. for selected performers in the Fort Gordon Youth Services Building, Bldg. 45410. Although not all cast members will be needed at every session, those auditioning must have a clear schedule for the entire week and if selected, be able to attend all rehearsals required for their role. A detailed rehearsal schedule will be distributed at the conclusion of the auditions. Cast members scheduled for the full 4 ½ hours of rehearsal will be asked to bring a sack lunch, supper or snack. Participation is open to all members of the Military and Civilian Community. Now, occasionally, I will devote some time to recommend something outside of our regular Ft. Gordon programming; that I would like to share with our local audiences….…Last night I saw a powerful one-man show on HBO, a filmed version of a stage play … THURGOOD, features a brilliant performance by Tony Award winning Lawrence Fishburne. It is based on the life of Thurgood Marshall, our first African American Supreme Court Justice. Both the story and performance are captivating. You should make an effort to see this special production. Well, that’s it for now. Lot’s more to come as the weather turns warm. We’ll share that with you next month. In the meantime, as always, we hope to see you at the theatre SOON!

Of course, April is the Month of the Military Child, so we also have something special coming for our younger performers. As I mentioned in last month’s FYI, we will once again be hosting The Missoula Children’s Theatre this year in conjunction with Ft Gordon Child and Youth Services. This year we go back to meet the Knights of the Round Table in KING ARTHUR’S QUEST. Auditions will be held on Monday April 11, 2011, from 4:45 - 6:45 P.M. at Fort Gordon Youth Services, Building 45410.

w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m • A p r i l 2 0 1 1

49


50

A p r i l 2 0 1 1 • w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m


Charlotte, North Carolina is hosting a wealth of bands for its one day music fest, the Carolina Rebellion – and we have two tickets for you to WIN! Yep, that’s right; you’re going to have to earn these puppies! First, the details. The Carolina Rebellion offers fans throughout the Carolinas, and the entire mid-Atlantic region, a full day of non-stop rock on three stages. Set for Saturday, May 7, the festival will feature two main stages for some of the biggest acts in rock today. “It seems the Carolinas are in need of a rock festival to call their own and we are honored to unleash the Rebellion to the great rock fans of this area,” says Gary Spivack, co-executive producer of the event for Right Arm Entertainment. “With our partners at AEG we locked into an amazing outdoor venue just minutes from downtown Charlotte. We are so proud of this lineup. From Godsmack to Avenged Sevenfold to Three Days Grace to Stone Sour....it’s non-stop...one great band after another.”

The lineup is as follows: Avenged Sevenfold, Godsmack, Three Days Grace, Stone Sour, Seether, Bullet For My Valentine, Theory of a Deadman, Alter Bridge, Hinder, Skillet, Saving Abel, Halestorm, Black Stone Cherry, My Darkest Days, Cavo, Rev Theory, Pop Evil, and Art Of Dying. Now for the competition…and we want you to be creative! All you have to do is write a short story – and believe me, I mean short – of 400 words or less, in which you use the names of each of the bands named in the lineup. It’s that simple. Well, actually, there’s a twist: it must make sense. And the names that contain more than one word must be used consecutively. In other words, don’t think you can get away with using the word “my” in one place and “darkest” in another and “days” in another. Because you cannot! The only permissible exception is breaking the name up into components – such as Godsmack, which can be used as God smack.

Send your works of art to me at molly.swift@us.army.mil. The deadline for entries is April 15. And if you don’t win, don’t fret. Tickets are on sale now from the website www.carolinarebellion.com Competition open to Active Duty Only

w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m • A p r i l 2 0 1 1

51


Family and MWR

April is Child Abuse Awareness Month Macon L. Irick, LCSW Lead Social Worker, New Parent Support Program

April is National Child Abuse Awareness Month, a time to educate individuals and communities about child abuse and neglect. This year’s theme is “Parenting from the Heart: Raising Children to Become Independent and Self-Reliant”. Child Abuse Awareness Month is a national campaign which Army Community Service (ACS)/ Family Advocacy (FAP) will partake in and educate the Fort Gordon community on ways to strengthen the Family and promote independency in children. One of the best ways to prevent child abuse is to help parents develop the skills and identify resources to protect the child from harm. New Parent Support Program (NPSP) is an integral part of Family Advocacy Program (FAP), which promotes safety, give encouragement and support, as well as educate on parenting concerns. The program is free and voluntary and has been proven to be beneficial to the Army community. New Parent Support Program is a team of professionally trained social workers and nurses that provide education and training to expectant parents and Families with children ages 0 to 4. The program prides itself on providing information and increasing knowledge of parents about child development and ways to decrease stressors related to everyday parenting. Parents who give encouragement, provide safe and nurturing environments, as well as allow the child to navigate their own course are more independent and self-reliant. Children who are allowed to ask questions without being silenced, threatened or doubt themselves have a greater chance of being more independent. Children need to be able to make age appropriate decisions and not made to be robots or auto machines. Parents can help their children by knowing developmental milestones and protecting them from harm and danger. Call ACS at (706) 791-3579 or New Parent Support at (706) 791-5220 for information on preventing child abuse. If reporting child abuse during normal business hours call Department of Social Work Services at (706) 787-3656. After hours and weekend reporting call (706)787-5811.

Installation Volunteer Program: April 13 - National Volunteer Week Picnic, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., at the Sportsman Complex April 14 - National Volunteer Week Command Program, 2 p.m., in Alexander Hall. April 25 – 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. – 6 p.m. Post-wide Volunteer Orientation/VMIS Registration at the FOC. Join New Parent Support (NPSP) & Family Advocacy Program (FAP) for fun filled events planned for Child Abuse Awareness Month: • April 5, Blue Ribbon Kickoff, Commissary 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. • April 11, Blue Ribbon Outreach at The Exchange 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. • April 18, Blue Ribbon at DDEAMC 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. • April 25, Open House, Bldg 1905A 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. • April 27, Parenting From The Heart Presentation at the FOC 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. New Parent Support Program (NPSP) is an integral part of Family Advocacy (FAP), which works with individuals and Families to promote safety, give support and educate the military community. Call ACS (New Parent Support Program) at (706) 791-3579 for more information.

52

A p r i l 2 0 1 1 • w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m


FORT GORDON’S FULL SERVICE AUTOMOTIVE CENTER

GREAT PRICES, CLOSER TO HOME! RV/SELF STORAGE

AUTO SERVICES Bay & Storage: Lift Bay Flat Bay Flat Bay Storage Lift Bay Storage Indoor Storage Cage Floor Space Storage (no cage) Outdoor Storage

$4.00 per hr. $3.00 per hr. $3.00 O/N $4.00 O/N $1.00 per day $1.00 per day $1.50 per day

Shop Service: Bench Work $2.00 per hr. Welding $12.00 per half hr. Leak Detector (smoker) $12.00 UV Dye Leak Test $15.00 Motor Cycle Lift $4.00 per hr. Tire Rotation $14.50 Turn Rotor/Drum $9.00 each Fuel Injection Flush (3 Stage) BG System $96.95 Full Trans. Service w/ BG Synthetic $189.95 Diagnostic Check $29.95 Alternator Electric Chg. Sys. Ck. $14.95 Battery Charge $5.95 2 Wheel Alignment $49.95 4 Wheel Alignment $69.95 Oil/Filter/Lube Service $26.95 & up AC Service Ck. (no Freon) $44.95 Tire Service: Tire Change Tire Balance Tire Repair Tire Disposal

$6.95 each $6.95 each $7.95 each $3.00 each

Other Services Offered: Brake Jobs, Front End Repair, Drive Shaft repair, TuneUps, Transmission Services, Timing Belts and Chains, Gasket Replacement, Engine Repair Etc.

w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m • A p r i l 2 0 1 1

Self Storage Fees: 5x5 5x15 10x10 10x15 10x20

$25.00 a month $45.00 a month $50.00 a month $65.00 a month $75.00 a month

Deposit required is same as 1 month dues.

RV/POV Storage Fees: RV/trailer POV

$25.00 a month $25.00 a month

RV/Self Storage Hours: Wed. - Fri. 0930 - 1900 Sat. & Sun. 1000-1800 (Payments Only)

Wed. - Fri. 0900 - 1700 (All Other Transactions for Storage)

HOURS OF OPERATION Full Service Drop-Off: Mon. - Fri. 0830 - 1700 Closed Sat. & Sun. Open Shop: (For the Do-It-Yourself Folks) Wed. - Fri. 1130 - 2000 Sat. & Sun. 1000 - 1830 Closed Holidays Clean-Up Starts One Hour Prior to Closing

53


Family and MWR

Fort Gordon’s FULL SERVICE Travel Agency

Buy your Military Promotional Tickets Now! New 2011 Disney Military Salute. Call Aladdin Travel @ (706) 771-0089 for details. Aladdin now sells tickets for select events at the James Brown Auditorium, Bell Auditorium and the Convocation Center. Call for more details.

Hours of Operation: Monday thru Friday 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Closed on all major and government holidays.

54

A p r i l 2 0 1 1 • w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m


CYSS Month of the Military Child Events 15 April: Radio Disney Band – Alexander Hall, 7 p.m. 16 April: MoMC Carnival– Barton Field, 0945 Invocation; 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Rides and Fun 16 April: PROPS Play – Barton Field Stage – immediately following MoMC Carnival events 21 April: Annual MoMC Volksmarch, 9 a.m. CDC Main CYSS Youth Program Celebrates Month of the Military Child 25 April: Create Your Own Patriotic T-Shirt, 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. 26 April: Family Movie Night, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. 27 April: Water Works BBQ, water play, 3 p.m. – 6 p.m. 28 April: Family Talent Show 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. 29 April: Youth, the Real Heroes Lock-In, 6 p.m. until 6 a.m. Saturday, April 30. 30 April: Appreciation Field Trip, Adventure Crossing Augusta GA, 1800-2200 (Parents are invited to attend) For more information: Evelyn Guzman, Youth Program Director, (706) 791-4446 (All events unless otherwise noted will be held in building 45410 Youth Services) Fort Gordon Family Child Care! All FCC enrolled Families are welcome to join us for a picnic in celebration of the Month of the Military Child April 15 | 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Lakeview Housing Area Park For more information: FCC Office, (706) 791-4440/3993 School Age Services Spring Break Camp April 4-8, 2011 Mon 4th: Activity Fun Tue 5th: FIELD TRIP! Riverbanks Zoo Depart 9 a.m.; Return 4 p.m. Wed 6th: FIELD TRIP! Georgia Aquarium Depart 8 a.m.; Return 5 p.m. Thu 7th: FIELD TRIP! Adventure Crossing Depart 10:30 a.m.; Return 3 p.m. Fri 8th: Popcorn, movie and ice cream social For more information: School Age Center, (706) 791-7575/5127 ALL CHILDREN MUST BE REGISTERED! CAMP FEES APPLY. FOR FREE MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION CONTACT PARENT CENTRAL SERVICES (706) 791-4722

w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m • A p r i l 2 0 1 1

Child, Youth & School Services GA Pre-K Lottery Lottery Funded Pre-K Program Tuesday, May 10, 2011 | 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Youth Services, Building 45410 46th Street Must Bring: • State Certified, Original Birth Certificate • Proof of GA Residency (cannot be phone bill or driver’s license) • Social Security Card of Child • Military ID/DOD ID of parent (or ID of child if with guardian) The following items are required by the first day of school in August 2011: • GA Immunization Certificate (GA Form 3231) • Ear, Eye and Dental Record (GA Form 3300) • Child, Youth & School Services Health Assessment Requirements: Child must be four years old on or before September 1 2011, and be a resident of the State of Georgia. All applications will be accepted, but only 20 students per class will be selected using a lottery system as follows: 1. All CYSS eligible students will be allowed to register 2. Each child’s name will be placed in a pool of names. 3. The lottery drawing will take place at 4:00 p.m., May 10, in the Youth Center, Building 45410 (all registrants are invited to attend, but need not to be present). 4. The first 60 names pulled will make up the three classes (Names pulled from boxes in priority order, i.e. Active Duty v. Civilian) 5. All other names will be placed on a waiting list. 6. Names will be posted on Wednesday, May 11 on the doors of the Child Development Center (Bldg 44401), CYSS GA Pre-K (Bldg 45400), the Youth Center (Bldg 45410) and Parent Central Services (Bldg 28320). 7. CYSS GA Pre-K Registration appointments will take place over the summer, please ensure you maintain correct information on your registration application so we can call you to make an appointment. After three (3) attempts to contact you, you will be removed from the list and a waitlist applicant will take your place. 8. CYSS GA Pre-Kindergarten classes begin in August 2011 (date TBA). Fort Gordon CYSS GA Pre-K closely follows the Richmond County School System Calendar. An abbreviated CYSS GA Pre-K calendar will be provided at Parent Orientation before school begins. For more information: CYSS GA Pre-K, Bldg 45400, (706) 791-1306/4790

55


Family and MWR

Get Outdoors Gordon (GOG) is an Outdoor Recreation program offering learning opportunities and encouragement to members of our military community to get outdoors! Kayaking, biking, whitewater rafting, snow skiing, hang gliding scuba, hiking, and zip lining are just a few exciting trips we are looking forward to this year. Our activities range from half-day trips to overnight and weekend getaways. Look at all we are planning:

APRIL Twin Bridges (Milledgeville, GA) Hiking (2nd) Paddle and Ride (9th) Tallulah Gorge Hike (16th) Whitewater Rafting on Ocoee (23rd-24th)

AUGUST Paddle and Ride (6th) Paddle and Ride (7th) Ocoee Whitewater (12th-13th) Hang Gliding (27th)

MAY Zipline Adventure (14th) Introduction to Outdoor Recreation (15th) Deep Sea Fishing (28th-29th)

SEPTEMBER Deep Sea Fishing (2nd-3rd) Hiking (17th) Mountain Bike Ride (18th)

JUNE Windsurfing at Pointes West Army Resort (4th) *Ocoee Whitewater (10th-11th)

OCTOBER U.S. National Whitewater Center (1st) Zipline Adventure (15th) Paddle and Ride (29th)

*Must be 60 Ibs or more and must be 9 or older to participate.

JULY U.S. National Whitewater Center (2nd) Nantahala Whitewater (9th-10th) Skydiving (16th)

NOVEMBER Hang Gliding (5th) Tallulah Gorge Overnight Backpacking Trip (11th-12th) Dates subject to change

56

A p r i l 2 0 1 1 • w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m


CUSTOMER APPRECIATION DAY Every Tuesday during the month of April is Customer Appreciation Day: Enjoy a special treat from the management! SUMMER EVENTS Family Reunions, Class Gatherings, Weddings, Conferences… Now is the time to plan your special summer event, hosted by Gordon’s Conference and Catering Center. Two additional venues are now available: the stunning conference centers located at Leitner Lake and at Pointes West, which is located in Appling. Make an appointment to view these state of the art facilities today.

Lunch Program:

Monday - Friday: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Lunch (luhnch) n., A meal eaten at midday or the food provided for a midday meal. Lunch, the most informal and unassuming of meals, defies easy definition. A relatively late entry into the cycle of dining, it is most often attributed to 19th century Britain. In its contemporary American incarnation, lunch continues to incorporate many of the class-and gender-driven connotations of its 19th century manifestations. For one of the most enjoyable lunches in the area, visit Gordon’s Conference and Catering Center. We offer a variety of rooms for the many different occasions celebrated at lunch time; birthdays, meetings, Hail & Farewells; or just a good, hot, southern style lunch. For light eaters, enjoy our salad bar, or the hot and cold sandwich line.

w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m • A p r i l 2 0 1 1

Lunch Buffet Served Daily Featuring Southern Cuisine Monday: Register to Win a Door Prize Tuesday: Manager’s Special Buffet Wednesday: Taco Salad: Beef or Chicken Thursday: German Schnitzel Friday: Hand Breaded Fish Fry

57


Family and MWR

Hours of Operation (Weather Permitting): Clubhouse & Pro Shop: Mon. - Thurs., 7 a.m. - 7 p.m. Fri. - Sun. (to include holidays) 6:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.

April Events: April 2: Team Power Golf Outing (12:30 p.m. Shotgun Start)

Please look for signs and brochures posted at our new information center in the clubhouse for all information regarding tournaments and events.

April 6: Taylor Made Demo Day (10 a.m. - 3 p.m. on the Driving Range)

You can now make tee times online: william.fumai@us.army.mil dallas.cooke@us.army.mil valerie.m.villela@us.army.mil Please remember tee times are taken four days in advance. Please note: On Saturdays we will be having 7:30 a.m. shotgun start on all three nines. On Sunday mornings we will begin tee times at 7:30 a.m. Start times will be determined by weather. Please call ahead if you have any questions. Thank you! Hook a Soldier on Golf Program: Gordon Lakes Golf Club has begun its “Hook a Soldier on Golf Program”. This program is an every Saturday morning event. This program is a FREE hour golf lesson on the driving range at Gordon Lakes. The clinic is from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Our PGA instructor, Dallas Cooke, and the Gordon Lakes staff will be available on the range for complimentary golf lessons for all Active Duty Service Members and their families. Range balls and golf clubs will be provided by the staff of Gordon Lakes - just show up! Hook a Retiree on Golf Program: Gordon Lakes Golf Club Newest Program “Hook a Retiree on Golf” is every Wednesday morning. The program will continue until the end of September 2011. This program is a FREE hour golf lesson on the driving range at Gordon Lakes. The clinic will be from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Our PGA instructor Dallas Cooke and the Gordon Lakes staff will be available on the range for complimentary golf lessons for all Retiree Service Members and their spouses. Range balls and golf clubs will be provided by the staff of Gordon Lakes, just show up! WE WANT YOU!: Come join the elite group of members of the only 27- hole Robert Trent Jones Sr. design in Augusta that is open to the public. All members receive discounts on green fees, cart fees, range balls, merchandise and tournament entries. Enjoy the latest technology with our GPS UpLink system. It gives you exact yardage to the pin, hole by hole playing tips and you can use it to order food and beverages from anywhere on the course. Call the shop for rates at (706) 791-2433.

58

April 4-10: Masters Week (Tee Times all week)

April 7: Ping Demo Day (10 a.m. – 2 p.m. on the Driving Range) April 11: Aiken Seniors Golf Outing (10 a.m. Shotgun Start) Only 9 holes available from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. April 14: Captain Van Eicher Golf Outing (9 a.m. Shotgun Start) April 23: Master City Golf Outing (8 a.m. Shotgun Start) Course open for regular play April 23: Jimmy Ellison Golf Outing (1 p.m. Shotgun Start) April 29: AUSA Golf Outing (12:30 p.m. Shotgun Start) All three nines. Course closed from 12:30 p.m. until 5 p.m. April 30: ADDA Golf Outing (12:30 p.m. Shotgun Start) May 2011: May 1: Rebecca Moon Golf Outing (12:30 p.m. Shotgun Start) May 15th: Retired Military Golf Association (7:30am Shotgun Start) May 16th: Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce Golf Outing (10:00am Shotgun Start) Reservations for 2011 Golf Tournaments: The time to set up your 2011 golf tournament events is now! Golf Tournaments average 90 a year and Fridays and Saturdays go fast! Please contact Bill Fumai or Dallas Cooke at (706) 791-2433 to set up your event today! Facebook: Gordon Lakes Golf Club has a Facebook page. Please join us and receive your information on club events, tournaments, and contact information. The website is www. facebook/gordonlakes. If you have any questions, please call the golf shop. Golf Lessons: Now is the perfect time to get your winter woes out of your system and take some golf lessons from our PGA Instructor Dallas Cooke. Dallas is PGA certified and has been teaching the game of golf for over tens years now. Individual Lesson: ............................................................. $40 3 Series Lesson Package: ............................................. $100 5 Series Lesson Package: ............................................. $150 All lessons are 45 minutes. Sign up today! Call Dallas at (706) 831-4654

A p r i l 2 0 1 1 • w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m


This Month at Gordon Lanes! (

April Fools Special: Mondays, 5 a.m. – 11 p.m. $1.25 per game, $1.25 shoe rental, $1.25 Hot Dogs, $1.25 French Fries, & $1.25 Sodas (per person)

(

Spring Break Special: April 4 - 8, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. 3 games of bowling & shoes only $7.50 per person. Everyone Welcome!

(

Wrestle Mania XXVII: April 3 at Kegler’s Bar (must be 21 or older)

(

Summer Leagues now Forming!

(

Xtreme Cosmic Bowling: Friday & Saturday nights, 10 p.m. - 1 a.m.

(

Bowlopolis Birthday Parties: We provide the location, you provide the cake!

(

Social Hour: Every Wednesday at Kegler's Bar 6 p.m. - 1 a.m.

(

Wild Wednesdays: 5 p.m. - 11 p.m. $1.50 per game, $1.50 shoe rental

24-Number Bingo

Great Entertainment - Win Up to $4000 WIN! WIN! WIN!

Kegler’s Café

Great Food at a Fair Price! Proven fact: We have the best burger on Fort Gordon.

Kegler’s Bar

Great atmosphere • friendly staff • Your favorite beverages! Open Friday and Saturday nights until 1 a.m. It’s time to come in with friends and unwind. See you soon!

Hours of Operation: Monday - Thursday, 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. Friday - Saturday, 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 a.m. Sunday, 11:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Letter from the Manager

Get your friends together and have a bowling party! We’ll be happy to do yours: (

Birthday Parties

(

Church Groups

(

Military Functions

(

Family Reunions

If it’s NOT listed above we probably can do that TOO! Groups from 10 -150. Full Line Snack Bar • Bar • Pro Shop • Arcade Games

w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m • A p r i l 2 0 1 1

59


Family and MWR

Voted by readers of Columbia County Magazine as the best local place to ride!

Hilltop Riding Stable wants YOU to experience its stunning trails – miles of wooded trails ranging in difficulty, suitable for all abilities. Now accepting registration for Summer Horse Youth Camps – do your children need somewhere to go during summer? Look no further! Camps are for ages 7-13. Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Space is limited, call now! Sponsored $200.00 Unsponsored is $225.00 (Full week reservations only) Fantastic meeting rooms available to rent for your next office meeting or team building exercise! • Trail day use for privately owned horses Sunday – Saturday $10.00 per day, per horse with Coggins. 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Recreational Shooting Tactical Advantage Sportsman’s Complex / Range 14 April 2 & 16: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesdays & Thursdays: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. $9 per person, $4 FGSC members and $2 for persons under the age of 16.

Fishing Tournaments @ Butler Reservoir April 3 (Bass Tournament) April 17 (Crappie Tournament) Hours: Daylight - Noon Open to all ID cardholders and members of the public with a FG fishing license guest permit (available at registration). $20.00 per person, $10.00 FGSC members with a $5.00 Big Fish Pot, $100.00 awarded to first place; $50.00 to second place.

Easton Pro-Am Archery Tournament @ Tactical Advantage Sportsman’s Complex / Range 14 April 28 - May 1 This event will be held rain or shine and will have no admission charge for spectators. Members of the military may register as a guest to participate in this event (all fees apply). Dress code required. For more information please call The Archery Shooters Association at (770) 795-0232 or visit their website at www.asaarchery.com

• Hilltop Riding Stable will be closed for all riding May 1 & 2 • No reservations needed for open riding on weekends. First come, first served. See our web site for riding times. Weekday pony rentals and guided trail rides @ 11:00 a.m. are with 24 hour reservations. All riders must arrive 40 minutes before ride time for sign in. Hilltop Riding Stable is closed Mondays and Tuesdays. 100% ID check with all Equine activities Closed shoes are required for all equine activity (no exception).

60

A p r i l 2 0 1 1 • w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m


The best time to come see Pointes West is now!

Want the beach without the drive? Head out to Pointes West Army Resort! Beautiful sandy beaches picnic sites, log cabins, hiking trails, camping grounds, playgrounds, boating and fishing!

Look for Upcoming Event:

BEACH BLAST 28 May 2011

Pointes West is proud to announce its latest additions: 111-spot Marina and Conference Center! Call for more information!

Recycling a 1 - gallon plastic milk jug will save enough energy to keep a 100 - watt bulb burning for 11 hours Fort Gordon Recycling center is now accepting plastic containers for recycling. Specifically we are accepting HDPE #2 and PETE #1. You are probably asking yourself what is HDPE #2 And PETE #1 they are types of plastics, HDPE#2 commonly used for milk jugs, orange juice jugs and other containers, this type of plastic identified on the container with the number 2 in a recycling triangle. PETE #1 are things like soda and water bottles they are usually transparent and identified with the number 1 in a recycling triangle. Special windows have been established at the recycling center, and containers at the satellite point near Freedom Park. Soon containers will be available for office buildings for the collection soda and water bottles as well as soda cans. PLEASE remember to rinse the containers, especially the milk jugs. THANK YOU FOR RECYCLING, EVERY PIECE COUNTS

Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday, 7:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Mr. Paul Henri, Manager 706-831-3409 (cell)

w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m • A p r i l 2 0 1 1

61


Family and MWR

Bus Schedules Operate 7 Days/Week Daily Services to Hartsfield Atlanta Airport and Daily Connecting Serivce with Greyhound Lines for all Points in Continental US.

Offering Reasonably priced services to patrons with a valid ID card and enrollment in DEERs.

- Every Day Discounts -

Preventative healthcare • Vaccinations Heartworm Testing • Micro-chipping Travel Guidance and Health Certificates Sick Call Exams • X-ray • Blood work • Ultrasound

May be purchased day of travel 10% Military Discount • $198.00 Military Max Fare (Passenger riding must have Military ID as Active Duty - Retired - Spouse - Dependent) Online Purchase Available at:

www.Greyhound.com

(Online Ticket Purchases must be picked up at Fort Gordon Bus Station during Regular Business Hours) Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday: 11:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Closed weekends and all major holidays

62

Service include:

All pets residing on Fort Gordon must be registered at the Vet Clinic, be micro-chipped and up to date on vaccines. Please call for an appointment. Are you PCSing? Make sure your pet is ready to go with you! Call the Vet Clinic as soon as you know your PCS location. Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

A p r i l 2 0 1 1 • w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m


Library Classes

FREE training Sessions will include demonstrations, question and answer periods, handouts for ready reference, and if desired, some one-on-one training. 30-minute sessions will be offered for quick learning. Extended periods can be arranged. Class size is limited to 12 people. First Come, First Served! Come in or call to sign up at the circulation or reference desk 706-791-2449 •

Woodworth Library Catalog (GLIS) Find Books, DVDs, Music CDs, and more. April 6, 13 & 25 Tumblebooks E-books for kids! Read, listen, play games. Ages 4-12. April 12, 21 & 26 Auto Repair Reference Center Contains info about domestic and imported vehicles from 1945 to present with drawings and step-bystep photographs, enhanced wiring diagrams and much more. April 4 & 18 Home Improvement Reference Center Home improvement assistance on maintenance remodeling, electrical work and plumbing. April 5 & 14

EBSCO Find full-text information in magazines, journals, and scholarly publications. April 11, 20 & 27

Tutor.com Learn about the library resource you can use to get help with all math, science, social studies and English subjects-from elementary to advanced levels. Work one-to-one in a secure classroom and everything is anonymous. April 7, 19 & 28

Class Hours: 12:00 p.m. – 12:30 p.m., 4:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. (except where noted)

w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m • A p r i l 2 0 1 1

Books for Buccaneers: a young pirate book club April 5 Aaargh... attention all ye mates and matrons, the Woodworth Consolidated Library presents the first ever Young Pirate Book Club! Parents come read your favorite pirate treasures and let the lads and lasses play buccaneer. Books for Buccaneers meet at 1:00 p.m. the first Tuesday of every month. And remember, Dead Men Tell No Tales, but YOU can! POC: Jeffery A. Gluff - jeffery.a.gluff@us.army.mil (706) 791-2449 The Parent/Child Princess Book Club April 26, 1 p.m. Read original fairy tales and fables; then compare them to the modern versions. Discuss the stories with the other parents while your kids dress up and play together. • Club meets in the children’s room at Woodworth Consolidated Library • Sign up at the Reference Desk! • Children of all ages welcome. • Contact the library at (706) 791-2449 for story selection. Preservation Week April 24-30 Memories and treasures should last a lifetime and be passed on to future generations. National Preservation Week, “Pass It On!” takes place April 24-30, 2011. Come in to the Woodworth Consolidated Library during this week to pick up information on how to preserve your own personal history. ACTIVITIES Special Pre-School Story Time - Wednesday April 27th, 10 a.m. Display - Pick up information about how to preserve your photographs, electronic media, paper, and books.

63


64

A p r i l 2 0 1 1 • w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m


NEED TO KNOW DIRECTORY A DM IN IS T R AT ION Directorate of Family, Morale, Welfare & Recreation (DFMWR) Room 382, Building 33720, Chamberlain Ave. .....................706-791-4140 FYI Advertising Sales Room 337, Building 33720, Chamberlain Ave. ........................ 706-791-3912 FYI Editorial....................................................................................706-791-6234 FYI Creative Director .................................................................. 706-791-3218 Marketing Assistant...................................................................... 706-791-6779 Webmaster ....................................................................................... 706-791-2925

Fort Gordon Lodging Building 250, Chamberlain Ave...................................................... 706-791-3676 MP Station............................................................................ 706-791-4380/4537 NAF Civilian Personnel Office.................................................. 706-791-6382 Post Information............................................................................ 706-791-0110 PX Building 38200................................................................................... 706-793-7171 Recycling Center Building 997, Chamberlain Ave...................................................... 706-791-7881 Veterinary Services Building 500, Range Rd........................................................ 706-787-7375/3815

DIN ING & CLUB S Bogey’s Grill at Gordon Lakes Golf Club Building 537, Range Rd. .................................................................. 706-791-2433 Chef Redd Bldg 29808, Chamberlain Avenue............................. 706-267-4700/394-2797 Domino’s Building 25722, B Street ..................................................................706-863-6211 Gordon’s Conference & Catering Center Building 18402, 19th St. .............. 706-793-7636/0220 706-791-6780/2205 Gordon Lanes Snack Bar Building 33200, 3rd Ave. ................................................................. 706-771-6907 Huddle House 267 Avenue of the States...................................................................706-798-3722 Java Café located in the Gordon Fitness Center ........................................... 706-791-2369 Java Express Bldg. MRW-023, Chamberlain Ave. .............................................. 706-787-3803 Me Me’s & Bo Bo’s Building 36000, 3rd Ave (At the Bus Station)................................706-792-9774 Slingers Express at Darling Hall Building 33720, Chamberlain Ave. ....................................706-790-5505/5504 Teresa’s at The Courtyard Building 36708, Brainard Ave..........................................................706-910-1044

FA M ILY S ERV ICE S

R ECR E AT ION & L EIS UR E Aladdin Travel – Leisure Travel Building 36200, 36th St. .................................................................. 706-771-0089 Alternate Escape Lounge/IET Center Building 25722................................................................................... 706-791-0785 Bingo Palace Building 15500, Corner of Lane Ave. & 15th St. ......................... 706-793-0003 BOSS Headquarters Building 28320, Lane Ave. .............................................................. 706-791-3025 Carlson Wagonlit Travel – Official Travel Room 117, Building 33720, Chamberlain Ave. ........................... 706-798-0990 Courtyard Outdoor Pool Ring Hall, Building 36710, Brainard Ave. ..................................... 706-791-3550 Fort Gordon Outdoor Recreation Program Building 00445, Carter Rd. ............................................................. 706-791-5078 Gordon’s Car Care & Auto Care Center / Mini-Storage Warehouses Building 29300, 30th St.................................................................... 706-791-2390 Hilltop Riding Stable Building 509, N. Range Rd. ............................................................. 706-791-4864 Indoor Swimming Pool Building 21608, Brainard Ave. ........................................................ 706-791-3034 Pointes West Army Resort at Lake Thurmond P.O. Box 67, Appling, GA 30802..................................................... 706-541-1057 Signal Museum Signal Towers, Building 29808, Chamberlain Ave....................... 706-791-3856

Army Volunteer Corps Room 169, Building 33720, Chamberlain Ave. ........................... 706-791-3880

The Fort Gordon Dinner Theatre and Music Program Building 32100, 3rd Ave. ................................................................. 706-793-8552

Child Development Center Building 44401, 44th St. ...................................................... 706-791-2701/6761

Woodworth Library Building 33500, Rice Rd. ................................................................. 706-791-7323

CYSS / Central Registration Building 28320, Lane Ave. ........................................................... 791-4455/4722

Gordon Fitness Center Building 29607, Barnes Ave. ........................................................... 706-791-2369

CYSS Family Child Care Building 28320 Lane Ave. ................................................... 706-791-3993/4440 CYSS GA Pre-K & Pre-K/Kindergarten Afterschool Programs Building 45400, 46th St. .......................................................706-791-1306/4790 CYSS School-Age Services & Middle School/Teen Programs Building 45410, 46th St.........................................................706-791-7575/6500 CYSS Sports 46th St., Building 45410................................................................... 706-791-5104 Commissary Building 37200, 3rd Ave. By-Pass.................................................... 706-791-3718 Fort Gordon Bus Company Building 36200, 36th St.................................................................... 706-793-0026

M IS CE L L A N EOUS Fort Gordon Federal Credit Union Building 36305 Avenue of the States.............................................. 706-793-0012

S P OR T S & FI T N E S S Gordon Lakes Golf Club Building 537, Range Rd. .................................................................. 706-791-2433 Gordon Lanes Bowling Center Building 33200, 3rd Ave. ................................................................. 706-791-3446 Gym #3 Building 25510, Brainard Ave. ........................................................ 706-791-2864 Gym #5 Building 25713, 27th St. .................................................................. 706-791-7370 Gym #6 – Fitness Center Building 21713, 21st St. ................................................................... 706-791-6872 Sports, Fitness and Aquatics Building 29719 .................................................................................. 706-791-1142 Army Community Service Darling Hall, Building 33720, Chamberlain Ave. ........................ 706-791-3579

For a complete list of DFMWR key personnel, visit www.fortgordon.com/staff.php

w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m • A p r i l 2 0 1 1

65


66

A p r i l 2 0 1 1 • w w w. f o r t g o r d o n . c o m


Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.