Retired and Active When we hear the word “retirement”, we tend to think of white-haired couples sitting in rocking chairs, but a military Retiree can even be under 40! Retirement is just the door to the next stage of your life. It doesn’t have to mean that you don’t have anything to do anymore or that you have nothing to offer others. What it does mean is that now you have time to do the things you’ve always wanted to do. Start a new career or hobby; eat at home or dine out; be in a stage production or become involved in your local government; go south and enjoy the warm weather or go north and enjoy the snow; volunteer at the school your children or grandchildren attend – it’s all about what you want to do now. As Ramon shares in his article on page 13 , “Don’t just allow retirement to happen to you, plan for it.” CynDe Clack, Editor mwrliferetiree@fortcampbellmwr.com
Inside this issue
Editor CynDe Clack
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The Spirit of Determination SFC (Ret) Tommy Vallejos cares about his community.
Contributors Art Conn Debbie Fields Ramon M. Maisonet Jessica Ryan Val Throckmorton
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Publisher Creative ink
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Off the Beaten Path Snow Bird or Snow Dog? Plenty of activities whether you like it cold or hot.
Healthy Living Eating Healthy & Staying Active Tips for when you are eating out.
Creative Director Sears Hallett Advertising 931-801-4531 sales@creativeinktn.com
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Bright Lights All the World’s a Stage... It’s never too late to blossom as an entertainer.
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Photography Dana Chango CynDe Clack Jessica Ryan Lisa Taylor Deborah Young
Home Town Hero Bringing Music to the Community Michael Ritter shares his passion for music.
11 Spotlight on MWR
The Leaf Chronicle Greg Williamson pg 9 Clarksvilleonline.com Bill Larson pg 10 Think Stock
Veterans in the Community
pgs 5, 13, 14
Keep Your Kitchen Clean There are four unique restaurants on post for you to enjoy.
13 Perspective Management Retire From Your Job, Not From Your Life. Change your perspective and enjoy the “Golden Years”.
15 Style Your Life Minimize Your House to Maximize Your Life Five easy steps to free up space in your home.
16 Transitions The Winds of Change Retired with young children.
17 In the Know Disclaimers: Fort Campbell’s MWR Life Magazine is a monthly magazine produced by the Fort Campbell MWR Marketing Department under the authority of AR 215-1. Facilities and activities publicized are open to authorized patrons.The mention or appearance of commercial advertisers, commercial sponsors and/or their logos does not constitute endorsement by the Federal Government. The information in this issue is current at the time of publication; activities and events are subject to change. MWR Marketing is located at 5663 Screaming Eagle Blvd, Fort Campbell, Kentucky. For more information, call 270-798-7535 or log on to www.fortcampbellmwr.com. 24 hr. event line - 270-798-3172 www.facebook.com/fortcampbellmwr
Save the Date Week of the Eagles 2014.
On the Cover SFC (Ret) Tommy Vallejos Tommy Vallejos at a Montgomery County Commission meeting as he listens to the discussion and prepares to vote.
Veterans in the Community
The Spirit of Determination by CynDe Clack
“The Army was a plus for me, it showed me the value of camaraderie, the value of community, the value of flag and country – and when you get it – it clicks on you – and WOW. I joined in 1980 and never looked back.” SFC (Ret) Tommy J. Vallejos, Sr. I recently spent an afternoon talking with Tommy and not only was it an informative and enjoyable time; he opened my eyes to things in our community that I didn’t know. Tommy was born and raised in Roswell, New Mexico, where his Family lived in a poor neighborhood and struggled to make ends meet. “My upbringing was just not a very good upbringing”, he said. “When I came into the military, and it wasn’t by choice, it changed my life. We were an impoverished Family and my way out was the military.” He was only 17 when he joined the military. He started out with the National Guard in 1980 and went on active duty in May 1981. When asked how he felt the military helped him become the person he is today, he replied, “It gave me discipline in areas of my life that I didn’t have. I didn’t have structure and I didn’t have discipline. Let me tell you what the military gave me, it gave me the will to win. I was a leader and I had to push and persevere. I tell the young infantry Soldiers today, ‘we didn’t have poncho liners’ - they would give us a wool blanket and if it rained that wool blanket would weigh 100 pounds. The infantry taught me things that no other unit could have.” When Tommy retired in May 2001, he didn’t just sit back and relax. He brought that spirit of determination into his life as a military Retiree. His life as a Retiree began with a part time 3
ministry at Faith Outreach Church while he also worked at UPS. In 2005, he started a full time ministry and began to engage himself in the community. He worked with the Hispanic Organization for Progress and Education (HOPE) and initiated work with the Hispanic community by assisting to set up English classes, helping them with food, and helping them understand how to become an American citizen. He discovered he wanted to become politically involved, so in 2010, he ran for the office of County Commissioner for the 14th District in Montgomery County - and won. He was the first Hispanic County Commissioner in the state of Tennessee and was recently selected to be the next President of the Tennessee County Commissioners Association, where he will represent county commissioners from all 95 Tennessee counties. He plans to lobby for things that will strengthen our county government. “That’s why I love doing these things”, he said “because I can represent the people.” I found his energy level to be amazing and his enthusiasm contagious! He is a Board Member of: the State of Tennessee Disproportionate Minority Confinement Task Force (DMC), the Tennessee Youth Court, the Matthew Walker Comprehensive Health Clinic, The Black Children’s Institute of Tennessee, the APSU Hispanic Culture Center, Freedom Outreach International/Church of God, and the Fort Campbell Chapter of the Association of the United States Army (AUSA). He is also a member of the Military Affairs Committee for the Clarksville Chamber of Commerce and sits on the Circle of Advisors for the President of Austin Peay State University. As if these commitments weren’t enough, he teaches Culture Awareness, consults in Diversity, and is an Instructor in Gang Awareness. When I asked about his work with Gang Awareness,
he explained that he teaches and lectures and shares stories of his own young life; all in the hopes of raising awareness of gang activity, and prevention and intervention. He shared that, for him, that’s what success is, “seeing a young kid that would end up in prison or reform school or even dead in the street from a drug overdose or gang violence; seeing that kid turn around, that’s impactful.” I asked where he found the time to do all that he does, and he replied that he finds his strength in God and his encouragement comes from his wife Carol. “Who”, he said, “for 19 years of my military career kept our Family straight and in order.” Tommy told me, “I married my bride of 31 years, Caroline Vallejos, in August 1982 and I have four beautiful children and four grandkids.” During his military career he spent time at many posts both stateside and overseas. He feels that some of his greatest accomplishments were being able to turn a Soldier around and see that Soldier go on to succeed. He shared that he loved being a Drill Sergeant. “As a Drill Sergeant, I got to impact young men that came in. Some came to me as cry babies and left as men. I got to see the smile on their parents’ faces as they saw their sons succeed.” This leadership quality is something else he has carried into his life after the military. He believes that everyone can do more. He asked me that - if I were doing more and you were doing more – could I imagine the positive outcome? His goal is to help others become “determinators” – “determine minded and encouragers to others. There are kids out there that need one word of encouragement. Can you imagine if a lot of Retirees get involved and immersed themselves in the community? We could change
this city – we could take back this city.” In his goal to be a leader, he has completed Leadership Clarksville, Leadership Middle Tennessee and is currently in Leadership Clarksville Montgomery County School System (CMCSS). In 2010, Tommy was the third recipient of the Johnny Hayes Dream Award from the Tennessee Immigrant and Refugee Rights Coalition (TIRRC). This Award honors a city or community leader who works to facilitate the full civic participation of new immigrants and refugees. In 2012, he was honored as the Tennessee Small Business Association Minority Business Champion. One of his duties as a County Commissioner for the 14th District is as a member of the Budget Committee. “I’m proud that I’ve served on the Budget Committee”, he said “helping set the budget for our county government which represents the court complex, the sheriff’s department and our school system.” The
Leaf Chronicle once referred to him as the “Budget Hawk”. “One of my proud accomplishments as a County Commissioner is always finding ways to cut the budget, always finding a way to cut more money from the budget to save the tax payers.” When asked if he had a message that he would like to share with the Fort Campbell community, he replied, “I would like to share with the Fort Campbell community that I left the military but my heart is still here. I will always speak for you and I will always stand for you. I am so proud of what you continue to do as new Soldiers coming aboard. You continue to show you care, so my message to you is embrace the communities which you neighbor - Kentucky, Oak Grove, Hopkinsville, Clarksville, embrace them and become part of them. My message to Fort Campbell is thank you for allowing us as Retirees to stay here to support you and you to support us. Thank you so much.” In closing, he shared this advice for other Retirees, “Have a voice and let your voice be heard. Get outside, get to know your neighbors; get to know your community; get to know your city. Get involved, do things you couldn’t do as an active duty person; get involved in the political system; get involved in how your tax dollars are being spent; get involved. If you want something to do, give me a call, email me, I will find something. We’re feeding the hungry all across the city; we’re housing the homeless; we’re helping mentor kids. If you want something to do, call me, I’ll help you out.” tvallejos@faithoutreach.org • 931-358-3010. 4
Off The Beaten Path
Snow Bird or Snow Dog? by CynDe Clack
Are you a “Snow Bird” that heads south for a winter vacation or are you a “Snow Dog” that heads north to enjoy winter sports? I’m a Snow Bird! I prefer to go south anytime of the year but especially when it’s winter. My husband and son, on the other hand, will go north for winter sports. For those of us who like warmer weather, there are all kinds of interesting things to see and do. We all know about the large tourist attractions and if that’s what you enjoy - then go for it. I like the unusual, odd, off-the-wall places. In Panama City Beach, Florida, you’ll find Man in the Sea Museum where they have a large collection of rare diving equipment, including the famous SEALAB-1. Owned by the Institute of Diving, the Man in the Sea Museum showcases the progress of underwater technology, from the earliest days of diving to the most modern underwater habitats. Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park in Homosassa Springs, Florida is one of the few places where you can see endangered West Indian Manatees, Whooping Cranes, Florida Key Deer and Red Wolves up close. “The Fish Bowl” is a floating underwater observatory that offers a below-the-surface view of manatees and fish in the crystal clear spring environment. They also offer three manatee programs, two wildlife encounters, and an alligator/hippopotamus program throughout the day. Continue down the coast and hit US41 Tamiami Trail and stop at the Skunk Ape Research Headquarters in Ochopee, Florida. The Skunk Ape is the Florida Everglades version of Bigfoot. Whether you believe or not – it’s a fun visit. While you’re there make sure to take your picture with the Skunk Ape statue. As you travel on US41 (toward Miami) you’ll begin to see roadside advertising for alligator demonstrations, airboat rides, Indian crafts and more. Take the time to stop and explore. It’s beautiful country and an airboat ride through the Everglades is exhilarating! Before you reach Miami, take a detour on South Dixie Highway to The Coral Castle. It’s estimated that 1,000 tons of coral rock were used in construction of the walls and towers and an additional 100 tons of it were carved into furniture and art objects. The Coral Castle was quarried, fashioned, transported and constructed between
1920 and 1940 by one man: Edward Leedskalnin; a 5 foot tall, 100 pound,Latvian immigrant. For those of you like my husband and son – who like to play in the snow – did you know that you can go skiing or snowboarding just a few short hours away. With areas such as Ober Gatlinburg, Tennessee; Paoli Peaks, Indiana; or Sugar Mountain, North Carolina; you don’t have to drive too far for fun in the snow. These resorts offer great options for the novice or the expert. While the snow may not be nature made due to our unpredictable climate here in the mid-south, rest assured, man can make enough snow at each of these resorts to keep you entertained. Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort and Amusement Park is a year round attraction. During the winter months, you’ll find skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing. In the last few years, they’ve opened a state-of-the art Snow Tubing Park and a Freestyle Terrain Park. They also have year round indoor ice skating. Paoli Peaks has skiing and snowboarding facilities with an uphill capacity of 11,200 skiers per hour. Their Arctic Blast Snow Tubing Facility has up to 9 lanes of snow covered, 700 foot long slopes. They have two Terrain Parks: “Bonk” is for beginners and “Empire Park” has more intermediate to advanced features. Sugar Mountain Resort has skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, a terrain park and an outdoor ice skating rink. There are plenty of unusual and off-the-wall things to see on the way to wherever you decide to go. Check out this website I found, www.roadsideamerica.com.
Leisure Travel Services can help you with your vacation. Whether you’re a “Snow Bird” or a “Snow Dog”; whether it’s a long weekend or a couple of weeks (or longer); they have all the information and resources to assist you with your plans, tickets, reservations and more. You can visit their office, located in the Exchange Mall (opposite end from the food court), Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., or give them a call at (270) 798-7436. 5
Eating Healthy & Staying Active (how to eat out without guilt) Eating out is just easier sometimes. You’ve worked all day and don’t want to cook; your children have all moved out and it’s not fun to cook for just one or two; you want a grilled steak but it’s raining outside – there are lots of reasons why we eat out. Eating out is fine as long as you make healthy choices. Here are some tips from www.choosemyplate.gov for eating healthy when eating out.
Healthy Living
Shared from www.choosemyplate.gov
Whoops! You splurged and had an appetizer, entrée and dessert and now you feel guilty. Add some activity to your daily schedule and you won’t have to feel guilt about your occasional treats. First, check with your health care provider before you begin a new physical activity then choose activities that you enjoy and can do regularly. To be ready anytime, keep some comfortable clothes and a pair of walking or running shoes in the car. Here are some ways to increase your physical activity from www.choosemyplate.gov.
Most important — have fun while being active! www.fortcampbellmwr.com
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(270) 956-1101/1100 (270) 798-9322 (270) 798-3201 (270) 798-6693 (270) 798-0171 (270) 798-5612 (270) 798-5207 (270) 798-4610 x119 (270) 798-4906/1822 (270) 798-4610 x106 (270) 798-4610 x112 (270) 798-7391 (270) 798-0766 (270) 798-2175 (270) 798-5350 (270) 798-4664/4023 (270) 798-2629 (270) 798-9418 (270) 798-7355
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Air Assault Auto Army Community Service Army Education Center Arts & Crafts Center(Guenette) Engraving Etc Auto Skills North Baldonado Pool Cole Park Community Activities Center Cole Park Golf Club 19th Hole Snack Bar Cole Park Southern Buffet D.W. Recreation Center Dawg Haus Destiny Parks & Pavilions Dolan Pool Estep Wellness Center Fort Campbell Riding Stables Fratellenico Physical Fitness Facility Freedom Fighters Physical Fitness Facility
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Gardner Indoor Pool Gear-To-Go Gertsch Physical Fitness Facility Hooper Bowling Center Leisure Travel Services Lozada Physical Fitness Facility North Softball Complex Olive Physical Fitness Facility Outdoor Recreation(Main Office) Paintball R.F. Sink Library Single Pool Skeet Range South Softball Complex Sports Admin Office / Fryar Stadium Sportsman's Lodge The Zone Veterinary Services
(270) 798-6310 (270) 798-6806 (270) 798-2753 (270) 798-5887 (270) 798-7436 (270) 798-4306 (270) 798-3320 (270) 798-4101 (270) 798-2175 (270) 798-4620 (270) 798-5729 (270) 798-4247 (270) 412-4015 (270) 798-3320 (270) 798-3094 (931) 431-4140 (270) 461-0603 (270) 798-3614
MWR Information
(270) 798-7535
Bright Lights by Art Conn, Theatre Director
To quote from Shakespeare’s play, As You Like It, “All the world’s a stage and all the men and women merely players.” If indeed all the men and women are players, then why haven’t you been on stage? Did you perform in plays in high school? Have you done a community theatre production recently? If not, why not? Most people, when asked to be in a play, usually reply, “Oh, I could never remember all those lines.” or “I’d be too embarrassed.” You’d be surprised how easy it is to remember lines when you rehearse repeatedly and your actions on stage trigger a sense memory that helps you stay in character. You also need a good director, which I pride myself on being. That’s not bragging - it’s my motto. I feel that I can turn anyone into an actor and have proven it several times. I know, I know; you’re probably saying, “It’s easy for you to say” but it’s true, I’ve been involved in community theatre for several years now. I started at the Soldier Show Center on Indiana Avenue here at Fort Campbell, with a bit part in The Silver Whistle in 1970. By the time the Cabaret Dinner Theater opened on post in 1980, I had performed in every musical, comedy and drama that came along and was directing plays as a Theatre Specialist under the Morale Support Activities Division, which is now MWR. Through those many years, I’ve seen a host of talented and not-so-talented people making their debut as actors. Some start out as youngsters being pushed by their parents and then there are the adults
who have always wanted to be on stage and they audition for a part as a way of checking another to-do item off their bucket list. In my years of directing community theatre, I usually have at least one actor who is “green” as we call them, the ones that have never been on stage before, but have the desire to perform. It takes a little more effort on my part as a director to guide them in the right direction - and I love that element of my role! I get to coach and watch someone taste the joy of presenting themselves in front of a live audience and see their eyes light up with deep pride in themselves for having done something they didn’t think they could. In my most recent production I had four people who had either never been on stage before or at least not since high school. I thought my work was going to be cut out for me with teaching “newbies,” but to my amazement, they were all wonderful. These people were not youngsters, the youngest was 24 and the oldest was a woman who (I will not divulge her age) was over 40. The star of my last production was a lady in her 70’s who has been doing theatre for a long time and still enjoys the process of performing live for an audience. The rehearsals, the coming into your character, the scenery, the props, the costumes; they are all part of this thing called theatre. It gets in your blood and you thirst for that applause. Then there was her husband, who is pushing 80, who came to rehearsal every night and worked as my stage manager just because he loved the atmosphere and the camaraderie of theatre people drawn together in a quest to put on a show.
Which brings me to the point of this article: it’s never too late to take to the stage and blossom as an entertainer. You know you want to - and all you need is the extra push to get out there and do it. If you’re thinking you’re too old to be in a play, all I can say is “poppycock”! You’re never too old! Dale Wayrynen Community Recreation Center on post puts on productions periodically through the year and the Cumberland Arts Centre in Clarksville puts on four to six productions a year. At either of these venues, the auditions are always open to everyone regardless of gender, age and capabilities. Watch the newspaper or social media for the next production schedule and come out for an audition! Dale Wayrynen Community Recreation Center 6145 Desert Storm Avenue Fort Campbell, KY 42223 (270) 798-7446
www.fortcampbellmwr.com
Cumberland Arts Centre 710 Main Street Clarksville, TN 37040 (931) 552-1106
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Hometown Hero
Bringing Music to the Community by Jessica Ryan
“Recreational Music-making encompasses enjoyable, accessible and fulfilling group, music-based activities that unite people of all ages regardless of their challenges, backgrounds, ethnicity, ability or prior experience. From exercise, nurturing, social support, bonding and spirituality to intellectual stimulation, heightened understanding and an enhanced capacity to cope with life’s challenges, the benefits of Recreational Music-making extend far beyond music. It ultimately affords unparalleled creative expression that unites our bodies, minds and spirits.” ~Karl T. Bruhn, “Father of Music Making and Wellness”/Former Music Industry Marketing Director and Music Advocate
Photo courtesy of Greg Williamson - The Leaf Chronicle
Music has a powerful effect on people. It can boost your mood, help you relax or simply provide pleasure and joy to your ears. There is no doubt that music is important to our society. Music can enrich a community in many ways. From educational to economic impacts, music provides an outlet for the community to perform, listen and appreciate the arts. Michael F. Ritter, an Army Retiree, brings his passion for music to the Clarksville community. During his 31 years of Army service, Ritter traveled all over the world and performed with Army Bands.
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He entered the Army as a trumpet player in 1974. Throughout his Army career, he was promoted to Commander/Bandmaster and served in that position in various Army Bands. His resume includes assignments in diverse locations including Hawaii, Germany, South Korea and one year in Mosul, Iraq. He also performed at high profile events such as a concert for First Lady Betty Ford, President Ronald Reagan’s Inaugural Parade, the 60th Anniversary of the Normandy Invasion, the 50th Anniversary of the Pearl Harbor Bombing and with Miss America. Ritter retired from the Army in 2006 after performing with the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) Band. His Family – including his wife Patty and two sons Paul and Sam - decided to stay in the Fort Campbell area since they liked the community. “We [my Family] love our house and we love the groups we belong to,” Ritter stated. After he retired, he decided to continue performing and teaching music to the community. “I’ve been a musician for years and I was looking for a job where I could continue to do the same MOS [military occupational specialty] I had in the Army,” he added. Ritter’s passion for music plays a huge part in his academic career and involvement in the local community. In 2011, he became a music professor at Austin Peay State University (APSU). As an adjunct professor, Ritter instructs a variety of classes in the Department of Music. Most notably, he teaches Music Appreciation, Music Theory, and APSU 1000 – an interdisciplinary course that provides college freshmen with the foundations for academic success. Ritter enjoys teaching since he is able to share his experiences and guide his students in their musical careers – whether it is in performance or music education. Outside of teaching, Ritter is the President and Musical Director of Cumberland Winds, an organization which promotes and fosters excellence in professional quality level wind and jazz ensembles in the regional Tennessee Cumberland River area. Cumberland Winds plays public concerts as well as provides musical educational venues, clinics, master classes for students and adults and raises funds for academic scholarships. Ritter and a few musicians in town established Cumberland Winds in 2009 in order to have a musical organization for the community. “Nothing like that existed in Clarksville before,” Ritter stated. “There are many cities that have symphony orchestras and also have community concert bands and big bands. Even though there are a number 2013 Operation Rising Star Judge of great bands consisting of pop, jazz, at the Zone on Fort Campbell
Photo courtesy of Bill Larson - Clarksvilleonline.com
rock, and country in the area, local event coordinators had to contact bands from Nashville if you wanted a concert band or a big band.” Cumberland Winds offers so many benefits for the local community. For musicians, they have a long-awaited outlet to perform music with other local musicians. The organization consists of groups including the Jazz Project, Dixieland Combo, Jazz Combo, Woodwind Quintet and Brass Quintet. In addition, there are solo instrumentalists who can perform at special events and more intimate settings. Ritter notes there is a diverse mixture of performers – ranging from other Army band Retirees and music teachers to individuals who have professional careers outside of music For the audience, they hear a talented group of local musicians performing for the community. Cumberland Winds’ groups have appeared at high quality community events such as Jazz on the Lawn, Rivers and Spires, Riverfest, Jammin’ in the Alley and the 150th Anniversary of the 1863 Battle of Gettysburg at the Stewart County Visitor Center. They also graced the APSU Concert Hall and Roxy Regional Theatre stages as well as played at local festivals and many private and commercial events. Many audience
www.fortcampbellmwr.com
members are amazed to have musical groups of this caliber in Clarksville. “We are providing a service in that sense to the community,” Ritter remarked. “It is rewarding because the audience just enjoys it [the performance] and you can see the smiles on their faces.” As Cumberland Winds continues to perform in the community, Ritter encourages people to get involved with the organization. Musicians, of all experience levels, can join the group. According to Ritter, Cumberland Winds accepts musicians either by audition, personal interview, past musical experience or strong recommendations from other musicians. The Cumberland Winds website (www.cumberlandwinds.org) and Facebook page (www.facebook.com/pages/Cumberland-Winds) posts information on upcoming performances. Ritter advises people to sign up for their mailing list so they can receive updates straight to their email address. As this issue’s hometown hero, Ritter wants to tell other Retirees that there are opportunities after their military careers. He recommends Retirees follow their passions and interests since it could lead to another career. “Seek out what desires you have and what interests you,” Ritter stated. “Do your best to have a second career after the Army.” For more information about Cumberland Winds such as membership, bookings and upcoming events, visit their website at www.cumberlandwinds.org or call (931) 436-3465.
Upcoming Performance Free Concert at Grace Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall 2041 Madison St., Clarksville, TN February 9, 2014, 4 p.m. 10
Spotlight on MWR
Keep Your by CynDe Clack
There are so many places in town where you can get a good meal – why would you want to come on-post to eat? Because Chef Bob is back – that’s why! He’s currently working out of Sportsman’s Lodge but you’ll find his influence in every MWR restaurant on post.
a Schnitzel Salad. Don’t forget the Fried Green Beans for an appetizer! You’ll find Sportsman’s Lodge quietly nestled back in the woods overlooking Lake Taal. The buffet in addition to the full menu is offered for both lunch and dinner. Sportsman’s also caters events with your budget and taste in mind.
Sometimes you just want a change of pace for lunch. The Dawg Haus offers a variety of foods including five different foot-long Dawgs. There’s the Coney Dawg topped with cheese sauce, chili, and onions or for the more adventurous eater, there’s the Macho Dawg topped with cheese sauce, chili, cole slaw, onions, bell peppers, tomatoes and jalapenos. Other Dawgs include the Cheese Dawg, the Carolina Dawg, and the Chicago Dawg. The Dawg Haus also has nachos, polish sausage, hamburgers, BLTs, chicken sandwiches, and salads. Make your Dawg a combo with fries or onion rings and a drink. Sportsman’s Lodge 6633 Sportsman’s Lane (outside Gate 10) (931) 431-4140 Lunch: Tuesday through Friday, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dinner: Tuesday through Thursday from 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday from 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. with the buffet available until 8 p.m. Saturday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. with the buffet available until 8 p.m.; and Sunday from 12 noon until 4 p.m.
Sportsman’s Lodge offers German-American and international cuisine as well as some great mouth-watering BBQ. The buffet always offers schnitzel, German potato salad and slaw as well as other yummy entrees and sides and there’s a full salad bar and plenty of dessert options. If you’d rather order from the menu, the selections range from Ala Carte Jager Schnitzel to a 10 ounce Sirloin Steak, or maybe you’d like to try 11
The Dawg Haus 7121 C Avenue (near Campbell Army Airfield) To order ahead call (270) 798-0766 Monday through Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Kitchen Clean burgers and hot dogs, pizza and calzones, and “Kids Kombos”. While you’re there,play some Bingo. Hooper offers Infinity Bingo during Bowling Center hours of operation. Each card costs $1 and you can buy as few or as many as you like. They’ll loan you a dauber and give you the day’s sheet with the pre-drawn numbers and then you daub away. You could win up to $1,000, paid in cash!
Hooper Bowling Center Snack Bar 5380 Tennessee Avenue Call ahead ordering (270) 798-2887 or (931) 431-6347 Breakfast Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. Lunch and dinner Sunday from 12 noon to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday from 12 noon to 11 p.m. Even though it’s called a snack bar, Hooper Bowling Center Snack Bar offers much more than “snacks”! They serve breakfast, Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. with breakfast also being served on Saturdays during league season. The breakfast menu includes three different omelets, pancakes (served with our without a breakfast meat choice), sandwiches, breakfast platters, and biscuits (plain, topped with gravy, or served with the breakfast meat of your choice, and you can even add an egg). During lunch you can order one of their many sandwiches, including turkey, tuna, chicken, BLT, fish, BBQ (lunch only), and subs; they offer a daily lunch special Monday through Friday and these range from white beans and cornbread on Monday and spaghetti on Tuesday to a pork chop plate on Friday. Salads can be ordered as a garden salad, chef salad, chicken tender salad, or taco salad, just to name a few. That’s not all! They also have combo baskets,
Let Cole Park Southern Buffet take the hassle and mess out of cooking your favorite southern foods. Their all-you-can-eat buffet is available Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The selections vary daily but always include southern favorites such as fried chicken, catfish, collard greens, fried okra, meatloaf, macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes, fruit cobblers and more. Included in the price of the buffet are the soup and salad bar and your choice of soft beverage. Their ala carte menu includes favorites such as burgers, sandwiches and salads.
Cole Park Southern Buffet 1610 101st Airborne Division Road (270) 798-4610x119 All-you-can-eat buffet Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
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Perspective Management
RETIRE FROM YOUR JOB, NOT FROM YOUR LIFE by Ramon M. Maisonet
Retirement. To some, it is a highly anticipated event that elicits visions of vacations, motor homes, taking a sledge hammer to the alarm clock and finally indulging in all of those hobbies that you have piled up neatly in the garage. It is the best part of waking up (especially with Folgers in your cup). To others, there is an anxiety that comes with the reality that they are entering into a phase of their lives filled with uncertainty and the grief that comes with major life changes. A Retiree friend of mine told me a few months ago, “I want to enjoy this aspect of my life with my wife.
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I retired three months ago and am feeling a huge sense of loss since I left my job. A big part of my persona was my job and making money. I miss the job interaction and the people I used to work with. I feel different now and sad, when I should feel relaxed and at peace.” Complicating things are the ailments and physical limitations that accompany us as we get older: the creaks in the knees and the knots in the back are sometimes painful reminders that our days of youth are long-gone, which can make for a miserable retirement experience. For those who have served honorably in our nation’s Armed Forces comes the realization that combat-related traumatic brain injuries and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) could be additional challenges that might affect our retirement quality of life. Can it be easy to become disgruntled when someone is experiencing these things? Yes. Can someone dealing with the issues of aging or dealing with major life change and medical ailments feel frightened, sad, anxious and disconnected? Of course! And while you may be preparing for, or are in active retirement and feeling powerless to these ailments and limitations, there is one thing that you do have control over—that is your attitude! Consider the following: A foursome of senior golfers hit the course with waning enthusiasm for the sport. “These hills are getting steeper as the years go by,” one complained. “These fairways seem to be getting longer too,” wheezed a second.“And somehow, the sand traps seem to be bigger than I remember ‘me too,” said the third. Hearing just about enough from his buddies, the oldest, and the wisest of the foursome, at 87, piped up, “Oh my friends, just be thankful we're still on this side of the grass!” In other words, if you woke up this morning and you aren’t reading your name in the obituary column of the paper, than you have a choice about what’s happening to you in your retirement—you can choose to be bitter or you can choose to be better. I want to share with you five tips that I believe can help you change your perspective about retirement
and help you kick-start your way to enjoying what should be the best years of your life—that’s why they’re called golden! Tip #5: Money Matters Being a “senior citizen” has benefits, and you should take advantage of all of them. Outside of Veteran’s Day, many restaurants offer special menus and discounts designed to honor you. Also, you may want to consider joining an association such as the AARP; you can get discounts on everything from clothing to hotel rooms. These things should be part of the bigger plan of making sure that the budget you had in pre-retirement has been modified to fit your lifestyle post-retirement. Adjusting your budget is one way to stretch your retirement income. Tip #4: Retirement Community Consider that like-minded people with like-minded lifestyles make for like-minded activities as well as the enjoyment of new friends and exciting new adventures. You can find this in a retirement community (also called an active-adult community). These communities can offer a range of amenities such as nature trails, golf courses, swimming pools and some even have on-site medical facilities. Tip #3: Keep Moving Retirement doesn’t mean that you’re dead; it means that (barring physical incapacitation) you still have the opportunity to take on a part time job in a low-stress environment (i.e.-Walmart greeter) that can help you feel like you are still connected. Take some time out of your day to engage in some low joint-impacting physical fitness activities such as walking and bicycling; if you are married, these things can be wonderful marriage-building opportunities.
Tip #1: Travel Why in the world have you worked this hard, for this many years only to sit on your porch for days on end watching how well squirrels can tree-hop? I mean, it’s ok to do that on Tuesday mornings, but with time and money (and a limit as to how often the grandchildren can visit), you ought to travel! Don’t feel like driving? Many travel agencies offer structured trips that offer you travel, food, accommodations and/or entertainment for a discounted price. Don’t have the patience for planes, trains or automobiles? Rent an RV and take to the countryside. What am I saying? It really would be not only an injustice to you, but a waste of the best years of your life to choose to sit around and wallow in your retirement. George Burns once said, “Retirement at sixty-five is ridiculous. When I was sixty-five I still had pimples.” In other words, your spirit is always youthful. Don’t just allow retirement to happen to you, plan for it and prepare a transition plan that can help you ease into your new lifestyle. If you are already retired, one way you can help yourself is to add some structure to your daily routine, adapt some new habits. Need help planning your new life? Ask yourself these questions to help get you started: • • • • •
Tip #2: Keep People Guessing!
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An elderly gentleman who had had serious hearing problems for a number of years went to the doctor to be fitted for a hearing aid that would return his hearing to 100%. The elderly gentleman went back for further tests a month later and the doctor said, “Your hearing is perfect. Your Family must be really pleased that you can hear again.” To which the gentleman replied, “Oh, I haven’t told my Family yet. I just sit around and listen to the conversations. I’ve changed my will three times!” The moral here: laugh often.
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What is my passion? What is on my “bucket list?” What goals have I not accomplished in life? Should I consider being a mentor to someone? Is there a local shelter that could use my skill-set somewhere? Can I become a sponsor to someone in a recovery group of some kind? Could my local church benefit from my volunteering? Are there relationships in my life that I need to mend? Does my marriage need a spark?
Remember, whether you retire because you choose to or because you are being “Volun-told” (in other words, you “have to”), your retirement years can be happy; your retirement years can be enjoyable – despite your current challenges. Your best days are ahead of you! What are you waiting for? Let’s get moving!
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Style Your Life
MINIMIZE YOUR HOUSE TO MAXIMIZE YOUR LIFE by Val Throckmorton
We live in a time of abundance. Most of us are blessed beyond what will fit in our home. Our houses and closets are at maximum capacity. To maximize your life, let’s free up some space. There are many people who could use our EXTRAS. When you are fortunate with abundance you have the opportunity to help others in need. 5 easy steps to minimize your house and maximize your life. 1. Have a clear goal and time frame. Example: A clutter free kitchen by Friday or a beautiful relaxing guest room by Thanksgiving. Write down your goal and keep it visible. 2. Be prepared. Gather tools, garbage bags and boxes. Have a duster nearby because you always find dust bunnies when de-cluttering. Resources: ASYMCA Backdoor Boutique 5660 Screaming Eagle Blvd. The Boutique accepts donations Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Donations are taxdeductible. 3. 30 a day! If time frames intimidate you… use a physical goal like 30 items per room, per day. Locate 10 items to donate, 10 to
throw away, and 10 to put away in their proper place. This tends to work well when children and Spouses are involved in de-cluttering. 4. Cherished items. Items that hold special emotional value need to be enjoyed. If your wedding china is in a box in the attic, no one can appreciate it. Use it. Enjoy it! Find special occasions and create new memories. If something breaks…cherish the memory. Take photos of cherished items. A picture is worth a thousand words and can jog your memory all the same. 5. Staying clutter free. Use the one-in one-out rule. When a new item is purchased, a similar item must be removed or donated. You may be surprised how much money you can save by knowing you have to discard another item when you get home. Special note: This is a good time to make note of valuables in your will. Take pictures of the items and where possible write the name of who is to receive it. You may consider giving those items to your loved ones now, allowing maximum appreciation and shared memories.
The Winds of Change When I met my husband nearly ten years ago, I had absolutely no idea what I was getting into. In 2004, I was sitting on a bar stool at a friend’s welcome home party, when in walked a tall, handsome man. When he approached me, I quickly shunned him away. As he walked off, a friend leaned over and said. “You don’t have to be so rude, he is a CSM”. People who know me well, know that for ten years I was in the automotive industry, and CSM to me meant Customer Service Manager. Without question, I turned to my friend and uttered these words that would in time haunt me, “Why do I care if he is a Customer Service Manager?” I was quickly schooled on what a Command Sergeant Major was and why it was so very important. Not truly understanding or even caring at this point, I approached the man and apologized. Days turned to weeks, and weeks to years. This handsome stranger, CSM Chris Fields, soon became my very best friend, and eventually my husband and father to my then five year old son Gavin. A ready-made Family, seems simple right? In 2006, I gave birth to a bouncing baby boy we named Gabriel. Most men Chris’ age had grown children, even grandchildren. No way, no how - we like doing things the hard way. Not only did I have Gabriel while Chris was deployed, Gabriel was a scheduled C-section. I’ve always said, if you are going to make life a challenge, do it the right way. Chris did not meet his first born son until Gabriel was 5 months old, and that was only for 12 days of mid-tour leave. Later in 2006, I packed up our two boys, Gavin, age 7 and Gabriel. 8 months, and headed for Fort Campbell for the return of our hero. My entire life was about to change and I had NO idea. I bought a house with a Power of Attorney, now THAT was quite fun! Then we counted the days until Chris returned. In November of 2006, our wait was over. Chris had returned home and our life could begin. We were one
Transitions by Debbie Fields
big happy Family of four. Life could not get any better. Then in 2007, only three months after our son Gabriel had turned a year old, God gave us a lesson in life; her name is Emily Grace. Again, off to war Chris went, as I prepared to have our daughter via scheduled C-section. Once again I was on my own and pregnant. At times, it felt like that was the best way to get through a deployment. It definitely made the time fly by a lot faster. When our daughter, Emily Grace, was five months old, she, like her big brother Gabriel, met her Daddy for the first time, during mid-tour leave. In November 2008, Chris came home from Iraq and we began to prepare for our future after the Army. What we didn’t know was that everything we loved was about to be tested to the limits. For over a year, Chris trained his battalion for a deployment, a deployment that will sit heavy on many hearts until their last breath, May 5, 2010, Afghanistan XI. That deployment was more difficult than the other two combined. We lost 18 Soldiers during that deployment; 18 Families changed forever; 18 faces that I think of everyday; 18 heroes. When I was asked to write this article, I was asked to write about how our lives have changed after retirement, considering that we have young children. I can tell you that in my experience as an Army Spouse, in these short few years that I was privileged enough to be the wife of the “Customer Service Manager” - I would not trade one second of it. Our children have an understanding of sacrifice and courage. Many Soldiers my husband’s age have grown children, even grandchildren; we have #1, #2 and #3, because Chris says in his old age it is just easier to call them by numbers so he doesn’t have to remember their names! We cherish every second of what we have been given, we understand that every day is a day not promised. There is no doubt that there are challenges to retirement, however, Gavin, Gabriel and Emily Grace, aka #1, #2 and #3, are definitely what makes, in my husband’s words “30 years of Service, rewarding”. 16
In the Know
SAVE THE DATE
Week of the Eagles 2014 Week of the Eagles 2014 is scheduled for May 16 to 22, 2014. Mark your calendars! We’ll have updates in future issues of MWR Life for Retirees and we’ll be posting information on our website at www.fortcampbellmwr.com and on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/fortcampbellmwr. If you plan to attend and need to make travel arrangements, let Leisure Travel Services help you with your travel needs. They can find you the best deals and assist with all of your travel details. Give them a call at (270) 798-7436. For your dining pleasure while you are here, see our article on page 9 and read about our on-post MWR restaurants.
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