The Bugle Boy www.southcom.mil/usag-miami/mwr.html July/August 2011

Bonuses• Post 9/11 GI transferability Rights for

Excluded Retirees

Family Support• Standardization Training for Exceptional

Family Member (EFMP) Program Manager and School Liaison Officers (SLOs)

• Re-License/Recertification for Military Spouses relocating

Major Scarver was selected by the Family Support team to represent the group’s top two issues during the brief-out with LTG Bromley. Upon conclusion of the outbrief, all issues were ranked according to importance. Standardization training for EFMP program managers and School Liaison Officers was selected among the conference Top Five Issues. The top conference issues will now be addressed at the Department of the Army level.

Notably, this was USSOUTHCOM’s first opportunity to attend at a mid-level conference. LTG Bromley personally recognized USSOUTHCOM’s efforts and extended a warm welcome to come back to support mid-level planning efforts.

If you are interested in the process and want to participate at the local level, contact Mary Ortiz about the Military Family Action Plan that will be held this Fall to review USSOUTHCOM issues. For questions or concerns, contact Mary Ortiz, Military Family Action Plan Program Manager at 305.437.2677 or mary.ortiz@hq.southcom.mil.

U.S. ARMY FORCES COMMAND ARMY FAMILY ACTION PLAN (AFAP)

CONFERENCE

SPOTLIGHT: FOCUS ONARMY FAMILY ACTION PLAN CONFERENCE

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

WHAT’S UP IN SOUTH FLORIDA

FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER NEWS

WHAT’S UP IN FAMILY & MWR

GOING GREEN

SPOUSES’ CORNER / WHO’S WHO

FAMILY & MWR FUN BUS TRIPS

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16The U.S. Army Forces Command (FORSCOM) Army Family Action Plan (AFAP) Conference convened 7-11 March 2011 in Atlanta, Georgia. The theme for the conference was, “Helping to improve the lives of soldiers and families one issue at a time.” A USSOUTHCOM representative, Major LaVondra Scarver, and a U.S. Army Garrison-Miami representative, Ms. Mary Ortiz, had the distinct opportunity to voice the concerns of USSOUTHCOM personnel in the Benefits and Entitlements and Family Support Workgroups. Collectively, the two workgroups covered 36 issues ranging from military family educational benefits such as Rosetta Stone to special duty pay for humanitarian missions. At the end of numerous discussions on the issues, each workgroup was able to select two top issues to present to the FORSCOM commander. The following issues were raised:

Benefits and Entitlements• Tax Free Active Duty Soldier Retention

United States Army Garrison-MiamiDirectorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation9301 NW 33rd StreetDoral, Florida 33172305.437.2665

Sign up for FMWR E-mails and Send Your Customer Comments to: Mwrcustomerservice@hq.southcom.mil

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Major LaVondra T Scarver. Photo by Juan J. Chiari Jr.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

JULY

4 - Independence Day, Monday

13 - How to Create an Effective Civilian Resume, Wednesday, 1-3:30pm, Army Community Service (ACS) Conference Room

Deadline for Typhoon Lagoon, Wednesday, close of business, (COB) $55/$48

16 - Trip to Typhoon Lagoon, Saturday

20 - The Wheels You Want, Successful Car Buying Strategies, Wednesday, 1-2pm, ACS Conference Room

26 - Newcomer Orientation, Tuesday, 9:30-11:30am, ACS Conference Room

27 - Spouse Interview Workshop, Wednesday, 9am-12pm, ACS Conference Room 28- Southcom Community Information Meeting, Thursday, 10-11:30am, ACS Conference Room

29 - Miami Tour, Friday, 9:30am-3pm

AUGUST

10 - Choosing the Right Insurance for every stageof life, 1-2pm, ACS Conference Room

11 -Volunteer Orientation/VMIS, Thursday, 10:30-11:30am, ACS Conference Room

15-18 - Transition Assistance Workshop, Monday-Thursday, 8am-4pm, ACS Conference Room.

Deadline for Universal Studios Trip, close of business, $85/$75

17 - Trip to Universal Studios, Saturday

21 - Grief Loss Training, Wednesday, 9-11am & 1-3pm, ACS

Conference Room

22 - Interview Techniques, Thursday, 1-3:30pm, ACS Conference Room.

27 - Newcomer Orientation, Tuesday, 9:30-11:30am, ACS Conference Room

28 - Sexual Assault, Wednesday, 9-11am & 1-3pm, ACS Conference Room

29 - Sexual Assault, Thursday 9-11am & 1-3pm, ACS Conference Room

30 - Miami Tour, Friday, 9:30am-3pm

17 - Deadline to pay for Magic Kingdom trip, Wednesday, close of business, $85/$75

20 - Trip to Disney’s Magic Kingdom

23 - Newcomer Orientation, Tuesday,

9:30-11:30am, ACS Conference Room

24 - Estate Planning, What Everyone Needs to Know, Wednesday, 1-2pm, ACS Conference Room

26 - Miami Tour, Friday, 9:30am-3pm

SEPTEMBER

7 - Stress Management, Wednesday, 9-11am & 1-3pm, ACS Conference Room

How to Create an Effective Civilian Resume 1-3:30pm, ACS Conference Room

14 - First Term Finance, Wednesday, 8am-12pm, ACS Conference Room

Classes and Events For more information or to register, call the Family Support Center, 305.437.2665.

Trips - Reserve and pay for trips at the Information, Tickets and Registration (ITR) Office - Installation Services Building, 9301 NW 33rd Street, Doral, 305.437.1595

To report suspected child abuse, neglect,

or spouse abuse, contact Family Advocacy

305.437.2346

After duty hours 305.437.2347

BROWARD - www.sunny.org/visitors/events/

Third Annual Saturday Nite Alive, through 9/3, Fort Lauderdale Beach A1A, 7-11 pm, Free. Every Saturday night through 9/3. Featuring more than 20 live bands, dozens of street vendors, special parking rates and trolley service with the Atlantic Ocean serving as the backdrop. www.thenewfortlauderdalebeach.com/

18th Annual Hollywood Beach Latin Festival, 9/18, Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, 12-8 pm, 954.961.6386, Free. Showcasing Latin culture with both traditional and folkloric music by internationally renowned performers and top local musicians on two stages, dancing, food vendors, arts and crafts and children’s activities. www.hollywoodlatinfestival.com/.

MIAMI-DADE - www.miamiandbeaches.

com/visitors/calendar.aspx

S e c o n d Saturdays at ArtSouth, 7/9, 8/13, 9/10. Enjoy artwork by resident artists, re f reshments

and live music while you browse four galleries and open artist studios. Relax in the artistic and tropical atmosphere of ArtSouth. Children are welcome. 3-7 p.m. ArtSouth of Homestead, 240 N. Krome Ave., Homestead, FL 33030, 305.247.9406, www.artsouthhomestead.org.

XVI International Ballet Festival of Miami, from 8/26 to 9/18. The International Ballet Festival of Miami is considered one of the most important ballet festivals in the country, featuring prestigious worldwide

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PARKS DEPARTMENT CALENDAR OF EVENTS

www.miamidade.gov/parks/calendar.asp.

Dive In to Watch Despicable Me, 7/16. F l u s h e d Away, 8/20. Nothing like

celebrating the summer months with a Dive In Movie at Grapeland Water Park. Do something different with the kids. Swim and watch or hang out on the lounge chairs on the deck. Concessions will be on sale. Tubes are free to use so you can float as you watch. Come out and make summer memories. 8pm. Grapeland Water Park, 1550 NW 37th Ave., Miami, FL 33126, Airport Area, 305.960.2950, www.miamigov.com/parks/pages/grapeland.asp

MONROE (Florida Keys) - www.fla-keys.com/calendarofevents/

PALM BEACH - www.palmbeachfl.com

DORAL - www.cityofdoral.com/cityofdoral/

Social Fridays in Doral, 8/26, During Doral Social Fridays, the Doral Trolley stops at various en te r t a i nment and culinary businesses of Doral, showcasing the vibrant nightlife of the city. Free. The trolley runs along a designated route with a concentration of restaurants and other nightly entertainment. The route includes stops at the city’s hotels, where route maps are available listing other Social Friday points of interest. 8-11pm. Various locations throughout Doral, FL 33178. 305.593.6725 extension. 700.7 www.cityofdoral.com.

ballet companies presenting their greatest stars. Various locations throughout Miami-Dade County. 305.549.7711, www.internationalballetfestival.org.

American Black Film Festival, from 7/6 to 7/9. The American Black Film Festival returns to Miami Beach with an Opening Night Gala, the latest and best Black films from around the world (shorts, features, documentary and unreleased), panels and symposiums and other special events. Visit the web site for a complete schedule of events. Various theaters throughout Miami Beach, FL 33139, 646.375.2144, extension. 1, www.abff.com.

Free Fridays at The Wolf, 8/26, 9/2. Free gallery admission on Fridays 6-9pm. E x h i b i t i o n

tours at 6pm. Wine and light food at The Dynamo Museum Shop and Café. Wolfsonian - FIU, 1001 Washington Ave. Miami Beach, FL 33139, 305.535.2645, www.wolfsonian.org.

Miami Mineralogical & Lapidary Guild Demos, 8/28. Interested in gems, minerals, & fossils? Check out the Miami Mineralogical & Lapidary Guild club demonstrations and exhibits the fourth Sunday of every month (excluding December). See live demonstrations of cutting gemstones, making jewelry, showcases of what you can collect on field trips & vacations, crystal identification, and much more. 1-4p.m. Miami Science Museum, 3280 S. Miami Ave., Miami, FL 33129, 305.646.4200, www.miamisci.org.

Jazz Cafe, 8/17. Live jazz the third Wednesday of every month. 7pm. Alliance Francaise de Miami, 618 SW 8th St., Miami, FL 33130, Downtown Miami Area, 305.859.8760, www.afmiami.org.

WHAT’S UP IN SOUTH FLORIDA?

FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER NEWSSpouse Employment Program

The Spouse Employment Program is offered by the U.S. Army Garrison-Miami Family Support Center to provide assistance to spouses in acquiring skills, developing networks and resources that will allow them to participate in the work force and to develop a career/work plan.

Spouses are provided comprehensive, accurate and up-to-date information on available employment opportunities, education, volunteer resources and support services which assist in making informed decisions on seeking employment.

Services provided consist of: individual and group career assessment and counsel, negotiating salary, career exploration, instruction in job search strategies, including the use of the internet, headhunters, employment agencies, staffing agencies, internet /newspapers and local resources.

Resume and interview technique workshops are scheduled on a monthly basis. An extensive Career Resource Library

with more than 200 books is available. Books may be checked out for 30 days. The Family Support Center’s resources include computers, faxes and printers. These services are offered free of charge.

For additional information contact the Family Support Center Employment Readiness Program Manager, Joe Pagan at 305.437.2639, or Email: joe.pagan@hq.southcom.mil.

Transition Assistance Program 15-18 August

If you are planning to retire or leave the military, the Transition A s s i s t a n c e Program is here to assist.

The overall program consist of four days to help ensure separating or retiring service members are better prepared to compete for positions in the private sector, should they opt to do so after leaving the service.

The program provides comprehensive information on transition assistance benefits and services for service members and their spouses who are separating or retiring from active duty within 180 days. The workshops are conducted by representatives of the Departments of Defense, Department of Labor, and Veterans' Administration.

Information on personal appraisal, career exploration, strategies for an effective job search, interviews, resumes, reviewing job offers, networking, mock interviews, federal government employment, and resources will be provided.

Preparation well in advance of workshop attendance is critical. All attendees will need to submit a copy of their civilian resume at least one to two weeks before participating in the program. Resumes will be sent at no cost to a professional resume

writer and r e t u r n e d during the Tran s i t i o n Assistance P r o g r a m workshops.

The next P r e -Separation/T A P Wo r k s h o p will be

held August 15-18 at USAG-Miami, Army Community Service, Suite E2005, 9301 NW 33rd Street, Doral, FL 33172.

Military spouses are cordially invited to attend. As a matter of policy, former service members may attend the TAP Workshops on a space available basis.

To register call Joe Pagan the Employment Readiness Program Manager at 305.437.2665/2639, or send an E-mail to joe.pagan@hq.southcom.mil.

Nontyphoid Salmonella, Shigella, Visceral leishmaniasis and West Nile virus.

With the final rule, a Veteran will only have to show service in Southwest Asia or Afghanistan and that he or she had one of the nine diseases within a certain time after service and has a current disability as a result of that disease, subject to certain time limits for seven of the diseases. Most of these diseases would be diagnosed within one year of return from service, through some conditions may manifest at a later time.

For non-presumptive conditions, a Veteran is required to provide medical evidence to establish an actual connection between military service in Southwest Asia or Afghanistan and a specific disease.

The decision to add these presumptives was made after reviewing the 2006 report of the National Academy of Sciences Institute of Medicine (NASIOM), titled, “Gulf War and Health Volume 5: Infectious Diseases.”

The 2006 report differed from the four prior reports by looking at the long-term health effects of certain diseases determined to be pertinent to Gulf War Veterans. Secretary Shinseki decided to include Afghanistan Veterans in these presumptions because NAS found that the nine diseases are also prevalent in that country.

The 1998 Persian Gulf War Veterans Act requires the Secretary to review NAS reports that study scientific information and possible associations between illnesses and exposure to toxic agents by Veterans who served in the Persian Gulf War.

While the decision to add the nine new presumptives predates VA’s Gulf War Veterans’ Illnesses Task Force (GWVI-TF), the overarching

responsibility of the GWVI-TF is to regain Gulf War Veterans’ confidence in VA’s health care, benefits, and services and reconfirm VA is 100 percent committed to Veterans of all eras. The GWVI-TF began in fall 2009 and is not a static, one-time initiative but will continue to build on its work with annual reports issued every August. The group’s focus centers on unanswered Gulf War Veterans’ health issues, improving access to benefits, ensuring cutting edge research into treatments, and to make sure Veterans’ concerns are heard and addressed. This includes continuing to solicit Veterans, experts, advocates and stakeholders to share their views to better inform the important work of the GWVI-TF. The GWVI-TF Report can be found at www.VA.gov.

Disability compensation is a non-taxable monetary benefit paid to Veterans who are disabled as a result of an injury or illness that was incurred or aggravated during active military service.

Last year, VA received more than one million claims for disability compensation and pension. VA provides compensation and pension benefits to over 3.8 million Veterans and beneficiaries.

Currently, the basic monthly rate of compensation ranges from $123 to $2,673 for Veterans without any dependents.

For information about health problems associated with military service in Southwest Asia and Afghanistan, and related VA programs, go to www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/gulfwar/ and http://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/oefoif/index.asp.

For information about how to apply for disability compensation, go to www.va.gov or http://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/gulfwar/compensation_benefits.asp.

VA Publishes Final Regulation on “Presumptive” Illnesses for Gulf War and Iraq, Afghanistan Veterans

W A S H I N G T O N – Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki announced the publication of a final regulation in the Federal Register that makes it easier for

Veterans to obtain Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care and disability compensation for certain diseases associated with service in Southwest Asia (including Iraq) or Afghanistan. “This is part of historic changes in how VA considers Gulf War Veterans’ illnesses,” said Secretary Shinseki. “By setting up scientifically based presumptions of service connection, we give these deserving Veterans a simple way to obtain the medical and compensation benefits they earned in service to our country.”

The final regulation establishes new presumptions of service connection for nine specific infectious diseases associated with military service in Southwest Asia beginning on or after the start of the first Gulf War on Aug. 2, 1990, through the conflict in Iraq and on or after Sept. 19, 2001, in Afghanistan.

The final regulation reflects a determination of a positive association between service in Southwest Asia or Afghanistan and nine diseases and includes information about the long-term health effects potentially associated with these diseases: Brucellosis, Campylobacter jejuni, Coxiella Burnetii (Q fever), Malaria, Mycobacterium tuberculosis,

WHAT’S UP IN FMWR ?

Many thanks to our Annual Sponsors, SAIC and Terremark Worldwide. for their invaluable support of Family and MWR events.. The Department

of Defense does not endorse the sponsors

MILITARY APPRECIATION MONTH

May is always a busy month for Family and MWR. We celebrated Military Spouse Appreciation Day with a lovely luncheon at the USCG Base. We had coffee and refreshment days throughout May and daily prize drawings, culminating in a grand prize drawing of a Sony 40-inch Digital TV in recognition of Military Appreciation Month.

So many wonderful sponsors helped make these events possible and we extend our thanks to all of them for their participation: SAIC and Terremark Worldwide, our annual sponsors; The Biltmore Hotel, Embassy Suites Miami International Airport, Robin Viggiano, BeautiControl Independent Spa Consultant, Russell Protzman, Massage Therapist, Sue Devitt Beauty and Terry Jacobs Cosmetics for the Tropics.

Refreshments throughout Military Appreciation Month were graciously sponsored by Courtyard by Marriott Miami Airport West TownePlace Suite by Marriott Miami Airport West, Crowne Plaza Miami International Airport, Dadeland Marriott, Embassy Suites Miami International Airport, Don Pablo Coffee, Hampton Inn & Suites Miami-Doral/Dolphin, Homewood Suites By Hilton Miami Airport / Blue Lagoon, Homewood Suites by Hilton Miami Airport West, The McDonald Team.

Many thanks to Actor’s Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre and Miami Seaquarium for providing raffle items!

The BOSS program provides opportunities for single all Single Service Members, geographical bachelors

and single parents. The mission of BOSS is based on three pillars: Community involvement, quality of life and recreational activities. BOSS plans a variety of activities throughout the year to support

these pillars such as the angel tree program, mentorship for elementary students, focus group in the Military Family Action Plan,

trips to local events and attractions, comedy clubs and fashion shows. BOSS conducts revenue generating programs to raise funds to offset

the participation fees for all recreation activities.

For more information, go to www.southcom.mil/usag-miami/sites/mwr/mwr-boss.htm, or contact

Mr. Steve Ondriezek, BOSS Family and MWR advisor, 305 437-2726.

Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers (BOSS)

OPEN TO ALL SINGLE SERVICE MEMBERS!LIKE us on Facebook

FMWR USAG-MIAMI

GOING GREEN

Ocean-Friendly Substitutes

How do you enjoy seafood when many popular species have been overfished and populations are now depleted? By choosing ocean-friendly substitutes that are healthy, sustainable, and just as delicious as your current favorites.

Here, chef and seafood expert Barton Seaver shares sustainable—and flavorful—substitutions for many overfished and depleted species.

Atlantic Bluefin TunaBluefin is the king of the sea. There is really no substitution for this fatty, rich, unique species—hence its great appeal. However, we have eaten our way through this species’ ranks. It is a taste that is lost for many generations to come, maybe forever.

In most preparations, the bluefin can be substituted for by pole-caught yellowfin tuna, which although not quite as elegant, is a great eating experience. For preparations such as grilled tuna, seek out blackfin tuna, albacore, or even the tuna cousin, wahoo.

Atlantic CodAtlantic cod has a very similar cousin on the West Coast called Pacific cod, which is nearly an identical stand-in. It has the same flaky yet dense flesh and it cooks with the same distinctive flavor. It also responds well to the wide variety of cooking methods usually written for Atlantic cod. Also try Pacific ling or Alaskan pollack as a substitute.

Atlantic HalibutThis is a no-brainer. Choose Pacific halibut. It is nearly the same eating experience and is often less expensive and easier to find than its Atlantic brethren. The fish come from very sustainable fisheries ranging all along the West Coast. Especially great fish come from the cold waters of Alaska.

Chilean Sea Bass (Patagonian Toothfish)As a substitute for any preparation, try Alaskan sablefish. Also know as black cod, these fish share the same buttery, rich flesh, which can be cooked using almost any method. Sablefish is available year round and is quite a bit less expensive than Chilean sea bass.

Freshwater EelTry Spanish mackerel as a substitute for this dense-fleshed seafood. Both share a deep rich flavor that pairs well with a preparation in which a sweetened sauce is used. Try glazing the mackerel fillet with a traditional hoisin-based sauce or a little lemon juice mixed with honey or maple syrup. For traditional Italian-style dishes, the mackerel braises equally as well as the eel

and is great when cooked slowly in white wine as part of a traditional Feast of the Seven Fishes dinner around Christmas.

GrouperTry wreckfish from the South Carolina banks. It has a similar sweet flavor with a thick flaky fillet. It is great with a traditional blackening spice on the grill and it also takes very well to techniques such as beer-battering and sautéing for tacos. There are also a number of farmed options that work quite well as a replacement. Try barramundi from Australis, a company in western Massachusetts. This fish has a delicate skin and clean sweet flavor very reminiscent of smaller groupers.Farmed cobia is beginning to make a big splash on the market, and in the next few years I think that we will see a great growth in cobia in the marketplace. Cobia

is a near perfect cross between grouper and swordfish. It is a hit on the grill and a very forgiving fish to cook, meaning that it doesn’t dry out quickly.

Orange RoughyThis meaty, white-fleshed fish can be replaced by a number of options. Good quality farm-raised tilapia from the U.S. is a great example. Try brining the tilapia before cooking in order to really develop the flavor of the fish. Slowly roast it with a pat of butter on top and most of your dinner guests might not ever know the difference. Also try wreckfish from South Carolina as a great substitute.

SharkMy favorite recipes for sharklike fish all start with a good marinade in acid, such as lemon juice or sherry vinegar, with a lot of spices. In place of the shark, try farm-raised sturgeon from the U.S. It has the same density and appealing steaklike chew to it. When making soups, sturgeon has the same cartilaginous texture that thickens and enriches broths and chowders. Farm-raised cobia is also somewhat similar in texture to shark and

is a great substitute, especially in grilled or roasted preparations.

ShrimpThere are some fantastic shrimp out there that nearly no one knows about. Oregon pink shrimp or Maine pinks are delicious products that are very inexpensive and very convenient. Available all year round as frozen products, these work well in soups, salads, cocktails, sandwiches, and nearly every other preparation you can imagine. They are smaller than warm-water shrimp but are clean and sweet in flavor and a real treat.There are also some farm-raised shrimp options available from U.S. producers that are great eating. They are only a little more expensive and you can eat well knowing that you are supporting ecofriendly practices and helping to create jobs for Americans.

There are some wild-caught options, as well, such as Fisherman’s Daughter wild Sonora Coast shrimp from CleanFish, which is delicious and a great sustainable story. Also look for fresh wild shrimp from the Gulf States and the Carolinas.

SnapperTry barramundi from Australis, a company in western Massachusetts. It is a clean-flavored, sweet-flesh fish that is nearly identical to snapper in texture. It is widely available and well priced for the quality of fish that it is. It works equally as well roasted whole as it does cooked as fillets. It’s great in ceviches as well.

Sturgeon/Paddlefish (Wild-Caught)Look for domestically farmed sturgeon, as it is highly sustainable and a delicious

product. It is identical in texture and has a cleaner, more esteemed flavor than its wild counterpart. It can be an expensive product, though, due to the long time it takes for them to grow to market size—almost six years.

Yellowtail (Imported)Try the excellent product from Kona Blue called Kona Kampachi. It is a fantastic eat with a super oily, rich flesh. It is great as a raw dish but equally fantastic as a grilled or roasted dish. It is grown by a very progressive company that is making great strides at creating new sustainable technologies for the aquaculture industry. Good people and great product making a better future for us all.

Reprinted with permission from National Geographic’s Green Guide,

www.thegreenguide.com.

Department of Veterans Affairs Benefits Delivery At Discharge (BDD)

If you are separating from active duty within the next 60 to 180 days, BDD can help you receive VA disability benefits sooner.

What Is Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD)?The Benefits Delivery

at Discharge (BDD) Program allows a service member to apply for disability compensation benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) prior to retirement or separation from military service.

How Can BDD Help Me?BDD is offered to accelerate receipt of VA disability benefits, with a goal of providing benefits within 60 days after release or discharge from active duty. BDD allows a service member with at least 60 days, but not more than 180 days, remaining on active duty to file a VA disability claim prior to separation. BDD requires a minimum of 60 days to allow sufficient time to complete the medical examination process (which may involve multiple specialty clinics) prior to separation from service.

How Do I Get Started?Submit VA Form 21-526, Veteran’s Application for Compensation and/or Pension, and submit it to the nearest VA Regional Office. You can also complete your application on-line at VA’s website (www.VA.gov) using the Veterans Online Application (VONAPP). For the VA Regional Office nearest you, call the VA toll free number at 1.800.827.1000. Submit your service treatment records. Either your original records or copies are acceptable. Attend and complete all phases of your VA/DoD medical separation examination process.

Where Can I Get An Application?VA Form 21-526 can be downloaded from the VA website at www.va.gov. An on-line application can also be submitted on that website using the Veterans Online Application (VONAPP). You may also call VA toll free at 1.800.827.1000 to have a claim form mailed to you. Remember, to fully participate in the BDD Program, you must submit VA Form 21-526, along with a copy of your service treatment records (or original), and be available to attend and complete all phases of the VA/DoD medical separation examination.

What Else Should I Know?BDD is a time-sensitive process. To receive your VA disability benefits within the goal of 60 days following separation, you must submit your claim 60 to 180 days prior to your release or retirement from active duty. This time is needed to complete your medical examinations before you leave your point of separation. If you are

closer than 60 days to separation from service, you can submit a Quick Start claim. Call the VA today at 1.800.827.1000 to learn about this process and get started. How Can I Get More Information?If you are on a military installation, contact your local Transition Assistance Office or ACAP Center (Army only) to schedule appointments to attend VA benefits briefings and learn how to initiate your claim. You can also call the VA toll-free number, 1.800.827.1000. Be sure to visit www.TurboTAP.org and www.MilitaryOneSource.com for 24/7 access to helpful pre-separation and transition guides; employment, education, and relocation information, benefits checklist and more.

For More Information and Appointments to File Your Claim, Contact Enrique Carrion at email: Enrique.carrion@va.gov or phone: 305.575.7000, extension 3068.

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Travel should take you places®

Travel is more than just A to B. Travel should take you where satisfaction

Our high tech business services, versatilemeeting areas and elegant banquetfacilities help you conduct your work

seamlessly. Proudly certified as a FloridaGreen Lodging Hotel.

Plan your next stay at the Hilton Miami Downtown

1601 Biscayne Blvd., Miami FL 305 374-0000www.miamidowntown.hilton.com

Certain restrictions apply. Availble for rooms booked after May 1, 2009 though December23,2009. ©2009 Hilton Hotels Corporation.

New to USSOUTHCOM? Take the Free Miami TourJoin us for a whirlwind tour of Bayside,

Coconut Grove, Coral Gables, Key Biscayne, South Beach and more.

Service Members, Family Members, Civilians, Call the Family Support Center to reserve your space

305.437.2665

SCHOOL LIAISON OFFERS WORKSHOPS

The School

Liaison Office

will present

the following

workshops to

provide parents

with valuable

i n f o r m a t i o n

about local

school district, the enrollment and transition

processes, as well as the best approaches

when dealing with students with special needs.

Broward school district workshops will be

announced at a later date.

Miami Dade County Public Schools (MDCPS)

101, Monday, July 11, 10am - 12pm, Installation

Services Center, Army Community Service

(ACS) Conference Room. Sponsored by: Parent

Academy

MDCPS 101 - Tuesday, July 12, 5-7pm Special

Operations Command South (SOCSOUTH,)

Sponsored by: Parent Academy

Individuals with Disabilities Educational Act

(IDEA) Workshop - Monday, July 18, 10am-12pm,

Installation Services Center, ACS Conference

Room

IDEA Workshop - Tuesday, July 19, 5-7pm

SOCSOUTH, Sponsored by: Parent to Parent

Individualized Education Plan (IEP) Workshop

- Monday, August 8, 10am-12pm, Installation

Services Center, ACS Conference Room,

Sponsored by: Parent to Parent

IEP Workshop -Tuesday, August 9, 5-7pm,

SOCSOUTH, Sponsored by: Parent to Parent

To register or for more information, contact

Dr. Francisco Brizuela, School Liaison

Officer, francisco.brizuela@hq.southcom.mil,

305.437.2225.

PARENTS CORNER

SPOUSES CORNER

Survivor Outreach Services Financial Counselor - Ruddy Arguello, ruddy.a.arguello@us.army.milVolunteer Coordinator - Mary Ortiz, mary.ortiz@hq.southcom. mil

Army Substance Abuse Programs (ASAP)ADCO, Suicide Prevention and Employee Assistance Programs - Guy W. Drab, guy.drab@hq.southcom. mil, 305.437.3078Drug Testing Coordinator (DTC) - Connie Sova, connie.sova.ctr@hq.southcom.mil, 305.437.2428Prevention Education/Activities Coordinator (PC) Carmen Rivera, carmen.rivera.ctr@hq.southcom.mil USAG-M PublicAffairs - Arthur McQueen, 305.437.2685 arthur.mcqueen@hq.southcom.mil

USSOUTHCOM

Clinic Office hours: 0730-1630 For appointments call 305.437.3559 Services TRICARE enrolled membersTRICARE Service Centers 1.800.444.5445 Miramar or USCG Air Station Opa LockaDomestic Violence/Child Abuse John Knoebel 305.437.3072 john.knoebel@hq.southcom.milFamily Counseling Center 305.437.3086Housing Referral 305.437.2642Education Service 305.437.2287Carlson Wagonlit 1.800.579.6681

Di rectorate o f Fami ly and Mora le, We l fa re and Recreat ion ( FMWR)

One Stop Phone Number: 305.437.2642

Director - Sheryl Byrd, sheryl.byrd@hq.southcom.mil Administration - Vilma Lesesne, vilma.lesesne@hq.southcom.milFinancial Management Officer - Marisol Archibold, marisol.archibold@hq.southcom.mil Marketing, Sponsorship and Advertising - Helen Colby, helen.colby@hq.southcom.milE-mail: mwrcustomerservice@hq.southcom.mil Toll Free Hot Line: 1.877.291.1604

Recreation Services One Stop Phone Number: 305.437.2642

Recreation, Better Opportunity for Single Service Members (BOSS) - Stephen Ondriezek, stephen.ondriezek@hq.southcom.mil Information, Tickets and Registration - Eric Ruiz, eric.ruiz@hq.southcom.mil Macarena Schmidt, macarena.schmidt@hq.southcom.mil Fitness Center, Jill Hauser, Recreation Specialist, jill.hauser@hq.southcom.mil Frank Same, Recreation Specialist, Francisco.same1@hq.southcom.mil Recreation Assistants: Erik Vidal, erik.vidal@hq.southcom.mil; Angelique Williams, angelique. williams@hq.southcom.mil; Elson Sanchez, elson.sanchez@hq.southcom.mil; Dolly

Fernandez, dolores.fernandez@hq.southcom.mil; Jose Fernandez, jose.fernandez@hq.southcom.mil; Martin Galvez, martin.galvez@hq.southcom.mil; Kevin Ruval caba, kevin.ruvalcaba@hq.southcom.mil; Joshua Corraliza, joshua.corraliza@hq.southcom.mil

Child, Youth & School Services (CYS Services) One Stop Phone Number: 305.437.2642

CYSS Director - Ileana Gonzalez-Posada, ileana.gonzalesposad@hq.southcom.milAdministration - Mary Gomez, mary.gomez@hq.southcom.milChild Development Center Director - Denise Gonzalez, denise. gonzalez@hq.southcom.milSchool Liaison Services - Franisco Brizuela, francisco.brizuela@hq.southcom.mil

Family Support Division (FSD)One Stop Phone Number: 305.437.2642

Army Community Service Director - Victoria DuBois, vickie.dubois@us.army.milAdministration - Lydia Sanchez, lydia.sanchez@hq.southcom.milConsumer Affairs/Emergency Financial Assistance - Richard Zimmelman, richard.zimmelman@hq.southcom.milEmployment Readiness/Transition Assistance - Joe Pagan, joe.pagan@hq.southcom.mil Family Advocacy/Exceptional Family Member - Joe Walker, joe.walker@hq.southcom.mil Relocation Readiness - Roxana Acosta, roxanna.acosta@ hq.southcom.mil Survivor Outreach Services Support Coordinator - Maddie Husta, madhya.husta@hq.southcom.mil

SPOUSES NEEDED TO COORDINATE the HIALEAH and KENDALL ZIP CODE GROUPS!

DORAL, CORAL GABLES, MIAMI LAKES, NORTH MIAMI, NORTH MIAMI BEACH, Eva Raquel Cool, 305.510.4875, lotusflower_0308@yahoo.com; Mayra Marvil, mmarvil@earthlink.net, 305.593.2002; doralzipcode@yahoo.com

HIALEAH, coordinator needed, please call 305.437.2665

KENDALL, HAMMOCKS, PINECREST, PALMETTO BAY, surrounding areas. Coordinator needed, please call 305.437.2665

BROWARD COUNTY, Sabrina Bowman, scott_bowman1969@yahoo.com; Nila Mistry, nilamistry1@yahoo.com HOMESTEAD & SOCSOUTH, Kris Rodriguez, sirkesojerdna@hotmail.com; Fatima Bissonnette, fatimabissonnette@yahoo.com; socsouthfamily@yahoogroups.com

2011 SCCIM meetings will be held 28 July and 27 October (tentative.) Zip Code Group Coordinators disseminate information from the SCCIM to the zip code groups. All spouses are encouraged to submit concerns/issues to your area zip code coordinator. The purpose is to share ideas and make living in South Florida an enriching experience. Meetings: 10 am, 9301 NW 33rd Street, Installation Services Building ACS Conference Room. For more information, call 305.437.2665.

Zip Code Groups

USSOUTHCOM Community Information Meeting (SCCIM)

Coordinators disseminate information from the monthly Southcom Community Information Meeting (SCCIM) to spouses in their zip code area and present ideas,

issues or concerns to the SCCIM. Zip code groups can organize and meet in a variety of ways, from monthly information socials to web groups, depending on the desires of the members. Programs such as music

play group, 9/11 GI Bill briefing and the recent “Evening with TRICARE” are examples of recent collaborations

between Army Community Service and zip code groups. New spouses are identified during Service Member in-processing but if you are interested in

becoming involved in a group in your area, starting a group, or interested in coordinating, please call

Vickie DuBois, at 305.437.2644.

WHO’S WHO

LEAVE THE DRIVING TO US - FAMILY & MWR TRIPS

All trips depart from the East parking lot at Headquarters at 6 a.m. and depart from each attraction at 7 p.m. (unless noted otherwise.) Deadline to sign up for trips is close of business the Wednesday before each trip. All prices include transportation, parking, tolls and

entrance to the attraction. Prices and times are subject to change. Tickets are available in the ITRO, 305. 437.1595.

July 16TYPHOON LAGOONAdult $55, Child $48

August 20 Disney’s MAGIC KINGDOM

Adult $85, Child $75

September 17UNIVERSAL STUDIOSAdult $85, Child $75

U.S. ARMY GARRISON-MIAMIDirectorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation9301 NW 33

rd Street

Doral, Florida 33172-1202

The Bugle Boy is a bimonthly publication of the Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation, U.S. Army Garrison-Miami, and is published for members of the United States Southern Command. Contents of The Bugle Boy are not necessarily the official views of, or are endorsed by the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense or the U.S. Southern Command. The distribution, mention or use of any sponsor’s products, services, or funds by the U.S. Southern Command does not express or imply an endorsement of the sponsor. All submissions are subject to editing. The appearance of advertising in this newsletter does not constitute endorsement by the Department of the Army, the U. S. Southern Command or the U.S. Army Garrison-Miami Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation Fund. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. If a violation or rejection of this policy of equal opportunity by the advertiser is confirmed, the publisher shall refuse to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. To submit story ideas, articles, or purchase advertising, call the editor at 305.437.3149.