Thursday, December 18, 2008

Belvoir briefs

Flu shot final call
Army Public Health Nursing administer flu immunizations to all eligible beneficiaries through Jan. 31 during normal business hours. The clinic is in Building 815, the two-story brick building across the parking lot from the family practice clinic. The main reception desk is in Room 123.
Hours are 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. except Thursdays when it closes at 11:30 a.m. for training. Other closures for that facility are 11:30 a.m. Friday; Dec. 25 and 26; Jan. 1 and Jan. 19 and 20.
More information is available by calling the Army Public Health Nursing front desk, 703-805-0942.

New Year’s Eve Gala
Ring in the New Year with others at the Officers’ Club New Year’s Eve Gala gourmet dinner with live entertainment. The price of $80 per person covers dinner, entertainment, a split of champagne for a New Year’s toast and a continental breakfast.
The event is reservation-only. Reservations are available by calling 703-780-0930, ext. 600.

Bird count
The Fort Belvoir Christmas Bird Count is Jan. 4. This annual count, sponsored by the National Audubon Society, is one of the oldest in the area, dating back to 1911.
The counts help environmental specialists better understand wintering bird populations.
Novice birders and experts can consider participating, as novices will be teamed up with seasoned birders for an invaluable learning experience.
Interested people will meet at Accotink Bay Wildlife Refuge Environmental Education Center for all start times: 5 and 7 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Interested people are asked to register through Kevin Walter, 703-805-3969. The cost is $5, collected the day of the count, which covers the cost for the Audubon Society to compile the data and send out The 109th Christmas Bird Count 2008 -2009, American Birds, a summary of all CBCs in North and Central America. 

Family night
Fort Belvoir Elementary School PTO hosts family night Jan. 22 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. The event is a sock hop with oldies music and popular songs by children’s favorite groups.
The free event is open to all Belvoir families.
Costumes are welcome or people can attend in everyday clothes.

Hobbies
Kawamura Arts and Crafts has ongoing framing and stained glass classes through winter. They are great hobbies and a way to save money on framing services.
More information is available by calling 806-4655.
Connect with Belvoir’s nature, wildlife
Beginning in January, the third Sunday of each month, Outdoor Recreation joins with Environmental to explore a part of the Accotink Bay Wildlife Refuge, with each hike focusing on an environmental lesson.
The wildlife refuge, established in 1980, includes more than 1,315 acres of marsh and hardwood forest in the post’s southwestern corner. Plans are to explore and experience the nine miles of public trails that wind through the refuge during the winter and early spring.
Dates are: Jan. 18, Feb. 22, March 15 and April 19 and starts at 8 a.m. each time.
More information is available by calling 703-805-3081 or 703-805-1226. Participation is free but each hike will be limited to 20 people.
Call to register and reserve a spot. Pets are not permitted.

Bird-watching group
Fort Belvoir Outdoor Recreation has a bird watching interest group for people interested in observing or learning to identify different birds.
The group will travel to observe and identify wild birds of Virginia and Maryland in their natural habitat.
More information is available by calling 703-805-3081. 

Shrek on Broadway
Fort Belvoir ITR has a New York City Broadway show trip to see Shrek The Musical May 16.
The bus departs Fort Belvoir Community Center at 5:30 a.m., for the show which begins at 2 p.m. The cost of $145 per person includes bus transportation and premium seating tickets. The trip is canceled if tickets are not sold by Jan. 31.
More information is available by calling 703-805-3714. 

AFAP training, symposium
Training for the annual Army Family Action Plan is March 9, with an alternate date of March 10.
Belvoir’s AFAP Symposium is March 12 and 13. The AFAP and the symposium is an Army-wide program that enables all members to raise issues of concern, make recommendations to improve quality of life and to ensure the standard of living keeps up with the changing times, on a global level.
Information and registration for the training is available from Colandra Sealey, program manager, 703-805-5556.
Information and registration for the symposium is available from Cassandra Walker, AFAP coordinator, 703-805-1150.
Training and the symposium are in Barden Education Center.

Searching for a job?
Army Community Service’s Employment Readiness Program offers several workshops and training for potential employees.
Federal Job Search - Jan. 8, 10 a.m. to noon. Registration is available by calling 703-805-4590.
Federal Resume Preparation is Jan. 15 from 10 a.m. to noon.
Respite Care Provider Training, where people receive training to care for exceptional family members and possibly earn $15 to $30 per hour. Orientation and Part 1 Training is Jan. 16, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Registration is available by calling 703-805-4590.
Employment Program Orientations, an overview of local employment, including federal jobs, resume assistance, registration for job skill training classes, are Tuesdays from 12:45 to 2:30 p.m. Tuesdays at ACS. Registration is required and is available by calling 703-805-4590.
Career Corner, a walk-in resume and job search assistance, is provided monthly by career counselors at a different community center on Fort Belvoir. The next one is from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Jan. 8 at George Washington. More information is available by calling 703-805-3126.
ACS Career Training Academy, with courses in computer skills, administrative assistant field, medical terminology and medical office specialist field are offered at ACS in January. Registration is open for a limited number of spaces and is available by calling 703-805-3126.
Other classes are: KSA Preparation, Jan. 22, from 10 a.m. to noon.
Career Development, Career Assessment, Jan. 29, 11 a.m. to noon, register by calling 703-805-4590.

Religion
PraiseMoves
PraiseMoves, the Christian alternative to yoga, is Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. It includes deep stretching, gentle movement and scripture. Everyone is invited. The classes are free and registration is not needed.
People who attend should wear loose or athletic clothing, sneakers and bring an exercise (yoga) mat. Watchcare is provided.
More information is available from Cynthia Thomas, a certified Praise Moves instructor, 703-499-3380.

PWOC
The Protestant Women of the Chapel does not have its weekly meetings again until Jan. 8, from 9:30 a.m. to noon at Belvoir Chapel.
The meetings offer free child care for ages 6 weeks to 5 years and the home-school room for school-aged children. Parents are asked to bring work for the children.
The PWOC also has two weekly evening studies: Tuesdays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the Religious Education Center and Wednesdays from 7 to 8:45 p.m. in the center’s library.
More information is available by calling Nilda Navarro, president, 703-868-6452 or via e-mail to .

Catholic
Catholic Holy Hour is every Wednesday from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel. Adoration is the first Friday of every month from 9 to 11:30 a.m. K of C
The Knights of Columbus meet every second and fourth Thursday. Location information is available from Kevin Palgutt, 703-781-4048.

Jewish
Fort Belvoir Jewish Congregation is in search of all new Jewish Soldiers and families.  The Fort Belvoir Jewish Congregation has weekly Friday night services at 8 p.m. at Belvoir Chapel.
Information is available from Sara Astrow, 703-806-4196.

Islamic services
The following are Islamic services in the area.
Salat Al Zuhr, afternoon prayer, 1:30 p.m. daily, Washington Navy Yard Chapel, Washington, D.C. Point of contact: Chaplain (Lt. Cmdr.) Saifulislam, 202-433-2611
Jumah, Friday prayer, 1:15 p.m., Quantico Prayer Center, Quantico Marine Corps Base POC: Mohammad Mukhtar, 703-670-0894
Jumah, 2 to 2:45 p.m. Fridays, Pentagon Room 1E438, Zadil Ansari, 703-602-7462
Salat Al Zuhr, daily from 2 to 2:45 p.m., Pentagon Room 1E474, POC: Zadil Ansari, 703-602-7462
Jumah, 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., Dar Ul Huda, 6666 Commerce St., Springfield POC: 703-922-0111.

Protestant Confirmation Classes
A Protestant confirmation class will be conducted from January to March, for Protestant children, 7th grade or older, who were baptized as children or want to be baptized. Parent approval is required to attend.
Chaplain Major Saul Cardona, Director of the Family Life Center, will lead the class.  More information will follow. More information is available from Mike Webb, 703-806-4179.

Education
Webster University and seminar
Registration ends Friday for Webster University’s Spring 1 & 2 2009. Classes begin Jan. 5.
Programs offered at Fort Belvoir include Master of Business Administration, Business & Organizational Security Management and Procurement & Acquisitions Management.
The GRE/GMAT is not required for admissions.
Evening classes are held at Barden Education Center.
Office hours are Mondays to Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Fridays 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
More information is available by calling 703-781-7942; stopping by Room 143 of Barden, via e-mail to or from http://www.webster.edu/dcmetro.

UMUC
University of Maryland University College is registering for spring classes. Face-to-face classes start Jan. 26 and March 23.
UMUC has four spring online sessions with the first one starting Jan. 18.
Some of UMUC’s Belvoir evening and weekend spring courses will be offered in a hybrid format. Students meet once a week in Barden Education Center and also in an online environment. Hybrid classes offer a great deal of flexibility for working adults.
UMUC is in Room 128 of Barden. Office hours are Mondays through Thursdays, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Fridays from 9 a.m. to noon.

ODU spring semester registration
Old Dominion University is registering new and returning students for the spring semester that begins Jan 10. New students beginning the Military Career Transition Program register as non degree students.
ODU’s MCTP program is designed for active/retired military, military spouses and qualified government personnel wanting to teach elementary, middle, or high school.
It is an initial licensure Master of Science program in Education for personnel. The teaching license is good in 44 states and DoD schools around the world.
Live classes are offered at Barden Education Center during the evening. Live satellite video streamed classes are offered at Quantico Marine Corps Base on weekends. Online courses are offered using the Smart online technology.
For more information, go to http://www.odu.edu/mctp or call 703-781-8203.

Park University registration
Registration for Park University Spring 1 classes is open until Jan. 2 for onsite classes and Jan. 9 for online classes. The semester begins Jan. 5 for onsite classes and Jan. 12 for online classes.
Park offers undergraduate programs in Computer Science, Criminal Justice, Admin/Law Enforcement, Management, Management/HR, Management/CIS, Management/ Health Care, Management/Marketing and Social Psychology.
Associate degrees are also available in Computer Science, Criminal Justice Admin, Management and Social Psychology.
For more information, contact the Belvoir office at 703-781-8456 or go to http://www.park.edu/virginia.\

Central Michigan University
Central Michigan University classes are available at six locations in the D.C metro area, including Belvoir. Registration is underway.
The university offers a master of science in administration degree. Concentrations are available in human resources, leadership, public administration, acquisition, information resource management and general administration.
CMU accepts applications year round. Classes meet on alternating weekends or weekday evenings and new sessions begin every six weeks. Degrees can be completed in 18 months or less.
More information is available from Mary Pat Mabeus, 703-360-5336. CMU is in Room 139 at Barden.

Thursday, December 11, 2008

Belvoir briefs

DOL closes early
DOL closes at 11a.m. Dec 18 for its annual holiday party.
For emergencies, call 703-217-3991 or e-mail , or call 571-329-1683 or e-mail .

CYS in housing
Staff from Child and Youth Services bring arts and crafts activities to the housing community centers. The event is free and open to all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult. The next event is from 10 a.m. to noon Wednesday at George Washington.
More information is available by calling 805-9117 or 9114 or 9116.

Children’s Christmas Play
The Children’s Christmas Play is Sunday. All children are invited to participate. A dress rehearsal is Saturday at 10 a.m.
More information is available from Mike Webb, 703-806-4179.

MWR
Movie night
USO and the Community Center present “Horton Hears a Who!“ Wednesday at 6 p.m., with a free movie and popcorn and time with family and friends.
More information is available by calling 703-805-2464.

New Year’s Eve gala
Ring in the New Year with others at the Officers’ Club New Year’s Eve Gala gourmet dinner with live entertainment. The price of $80 per person covers dinner, entertainment, a split of champagne for a New Year’s toast and a continental breakfast.
The event is reservation-only. Reservations are available by calling 703-780-0930, ext. 600.

Miscellaneous

Geospatial-intelligence program
Classes for an Advanced Geospatial-Intelligence IR/SAR Certificate Program through Air Force Institute of Technology at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base start Jan. 5 at the air force base in Ohio. 
The program is a 10-week educational series in the technical aspects of collecting, processing, and exploiting non-literal, remotely sensed infrared and synthetic aperture radar intelligence data.
The advanced certificate program provides the scientific basis underlying measurement and signature intelligence technologies, introduces students to the capabilities of current MASINT collection systems and exploitation tools, and highlights the contributions MASINT provides to intelligence production.
Classes run through March 11. NGA funds tuition and fees for up to 20 students in each class. The ACP is open to civilian and military personnel from across the U.S. intelligence community, DoD and supporting elements.
Prospective students can contact the ACP Coordinator, Amanda White, at 937-255-3636 ext. 7287 for applications or visit the Web site, http://www.afit.edu/crpd/Academics.cfm.
Applications have to be submitted by Monday.

AFAP training, symposium
Training for the annual Army Family Action Plan is March 9, with an alternate date of March 10.
Belvoir’s AFAP Symposium is March 12 and 13. The AFAP and the symposium is an Army-wide program that enables all members to raise issues of concern, make recommendations to improve quality of life and to ensure the standard of living keeps up with the changing times, on a global level.
Information and registration for the training is available from Colandra Sealey, program manager, 703-805-5556.
Information and registration for the symposium is available from Cassandra Walker, AFAP coordinator, 703-805-1150.
Training and the symposium are in Barden Education Center.

Consider volunteering
People who are looking to give back to the community, develop new skills, or just get out the house are welcome to volunteer.
Interested people are asked to contact Fort Belvoir Corps Volunteer Program Manager, Faitheleen Henderson, at Army Community Service, 9800 Belvoir Road, 703-805-4152, Faitheleen.Henderson
@conus.army.mil.

Items lost
A watch and some rings were lost at the end of October, believed to be in or near Specker Field House parking lot. They have sentimental value only. Anyone who has found the jewelry is asked to call Shari Myers, 703-704-2509.

Advent lunches
The Fort Belvoir Chaplain Office hosts an Advent lunch Wednesday at noon at Woodlawn Chapel. Advent is a time when the Christian community celebrates the coming of Jesus Christ. The lunches include a meal, fellowship and homilies.

Breakfast with Angels
Belvoir’s Chapel Community again offers “Breakfast with Angels” on Christmas Eve morning, Dec. 24, at 8 a.m. in the Religious Education Center. Adults are admitted when accompanied by a child.
Children 10 and younger are invited. Breakfast will be served by angels and there will be face-painting, crafts and storytelling.
RSVP to Sister Michael or Mike Webb at 703-806-3418 or 4179.

Jewish
Upcoming Jewish services are: Dec. 19 - Shabbat Hanukkah Dinner, 6:30 p.m. in the Religious Education Center, with services following and a designated offering for Koby Mandell Foundation. $5 per person; $20 max per family. RSVP to Sara Astrow, 703-806-4196.
Dec. 20 - Saturday morning service, 9:30 a.m., with Rabbi Bash.
Dec. 21 - Menorah-lighting on chapel steps, 6:30 p.m., with program following in Fellowship Hall.
Fort Belvoir Jewish Congregation is in search of all new Jewish Soldiers and families.  The Fort Belvoir Jewish Congregation has weekly Friday night services at 8 p.m. at Belvoir Chapel.
Information is available from Sara Astrow, 703-806-4196.

Islamic services
The following are Islamic services in the area.
Salat Al Zuhr, afternoon prayer, 1:30 p.m. daily, Washington Navy Yard Chapel, Washington, D.C. Point of contact: Chaplain (Lt. Cmdr.) Saifulislam, 202-433-2611
Jumah, Friday prayer, 1:15 p.m., Quantico Prayer Center, Quantico Marine Corps Base POC: Mohammad Mukhtar, 703-670-0894
Jumah, 2 to 2:45 p.m. Fridays, Pentagon Room 1E438, Zadil Ansari, 703-602-7462
Salat Al Zuhr, daily from 2 to 2:45 p.m., Pentagon Room 1E474, POC: Zadil Ansari, 703-602-7462
Jumah, 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., Dar Ul Huda, 6666 Commerce St., Springfield POC: 703-922-0111.

Protestant Confirmation Classes
A Protestant confirmation class will be conducted from January to March, for Protestant children, 7th grade or older, who were baptized as children or want to be baptized. Parent approval is required to attend.
Chaplain Major Saul Cardona, Director of the Family Life Center, will lead the class.  More information will follow. More information is available from Mike Webb, 703-806-4179.

Education

Central Michigan University
Central Michigan University classes are available at six locations in the D.C metro area, including Belvoir. Registration for Spring 2009 classes begins Monday.
The university offers a master of science in administration degree. Concentrations are available in human resources, leadership, public administration, acquisition, information resource management and general administration.
CMU accepts applications year round. Classes meet on alternating weekends or weekday evenings and new sessions begin every six weeks. Degrees can be completed in 18 months or less.
More information is available from Mary Pat Mabeus, 703-360-5336. CMU is in Room 139 at Barden.

Webster University and seminar
Webster University is registering for Spring 1 & 2 2009. Registration ends Dec. 19 and classes begin Jan. 5.
The university has a Research and Writing Skills Seminar Dec. 18 from 5:30 to 8 p.m., designed for those preparing for the 6000 course or who just need help writing better term papers. Reservations must be made by Monday.
Programs offered at Fort Belvoir include Master of Business Administration, Business & Organizational Security Management and Procurement & Acquisitions Management.

The GRE/GMAT is not required for admissions.
Evening classes are held at Barden Education Center.
Office hours are Mondays to Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Fridays 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
More information is available by calling 703-781-7942; stopping by Room 143 of Barden, via e-mail to or from http://www.webster.edu/dcmetro.

UMUC
University of Maryland University College is registering for spring classes. Face-to-face classes start Jan. 26 and March 23.
UMUC has four spring online sessions with the first one starting Jan. 18.
Some of UMUC’s Belvoir evening and weekend spring courses will be offered in a hybrid format. Students meet once a week in Barden Education Center and also in an online environment. Hybrid classes offer a great deal of flexibility for working adults.
UMUC is in Room 128 of Barden. Office hours are Mondays through Thursdays, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Fridays from 9 a.m. to noon.

ODU spring semester registration
Old Dominion University is registering new and returning students for the spring semester that begins Jan 10. New students beginning the Military Career Transition Program register as non degree students.
ODU’s MCTP program is designed for active/retired military, military spouses and qualified government personnel wanting to teach elementary, middle, or high school.
It is an initial licensure Master of Science program in Education for personnel. The teaching license is good in 44 states and DoD schools around the world.
Live classes are offered at Barden Education Center during the evening. Live satellite video streamed classes are offered at Quantico Marine Corps Base on weekends. Online courses are offered using the Smart online technology.
For more information, go to http://www.odu.edu/mctp or call 703-781-8203.

Park University registration
Registration for Park University Spring 1 classes is open until Jan. 2 for onsite classes and Jan. 9 for online classes. The semester begins Jan. 5 for onsite classes and Jan. 12 for online classes.
Park offers undergraduate programs in Computer Science, Criminal Justice, Admin/Law Enforcement, Management, Management/HR, Management/CIS, Management/ Health Care, Management/Marketing and Social Psychology.
Associate degrees are also available in Computer Science, Criminal Justice Admin, Management and Social Psychology.
For more information, contact the Belvoir office at 703-781-8456 or go to http://www.park.edu/virginia.

Thursday, December 04, 2008

Belvoir Briefs

Movie night
USO and the Community Center present “Horton Hears a Who!“ Dec. 17 at 6 p.m., with a free movie and popcorn and time with family and friends.
More information is available by calling 703-805-2464.

Winter Wine-tasting/shopping
An eastern Monticello wine trail tasting tour is Dec. 20, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The cost of $25 per person includes transportation and tasting fees. The trip is limited to 14 people. Tasting tour follows the eastern Monticello wine trail to Barboursville Vineyards, Burnley Vineyards, Horton Vineyards and Keswick vineyards.
The day trip is ideal for last-minute gifts or party favors for wine lovers.
More information is available from http://www.virginiawine.org. Trip information is available by calling 703-805-1226 or 3081.

New Year’s Eve gala
Ring in the New Year with others at the Officers’ Club New Year’s Eve Gala gourmet dinner with live entertainment. The price of $80 per person covers dinner, entertainment, a split of champagne for a New Year’s toast and a continental breakfast.
The event is reservation-only. Reservations are available by calling 703-780-0930, ext. 600.

Enlisted spouses
The Belvoir Enlisted Spouse’s Club has its monthly meeting Tuesday at 6:30 p.m., in Vernondale Community Center. Enlisted Spouses of all services are encouraged to become members of this private, not-for-profit organization designed to create a family-oriented, informative and social interest group among enlisted families of the Belvoir and Military District of Washington.
Information about the organization, membership or the meeting is available by calling 703-781-4050.

Geospatial-intelligence program
Classes for an Advanced Geospatial-Intelligence IR/SAR Certificate Program through Air Force Institute of Technology at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base start Jan. 5 at the air force base in Ohio. 
The program is a 10-week educational series in the technical aspects of collecting, processing, and exploiting non-literal, remotely sensed infrared and synthetic aperture radar intelligence data.
The advanced certificate program provides the scientific basis underlying measurement and signature intelligence technologies, introduces students to the capabilities of current MASINT collection systems and exploitation tools, and highlights the contributions MASINT provides to intelligence production.
Classes run through March 11. NGA funds tuition and fees for up to 20 students in each class. The ACP is open to civilian and military personnel from across the U.S. intelligence community, DoD and supporting elements.
Prospective students can contact the ACP Coordinator, Amanda White, at 937-255-3636 ext. 7287 for applications or visit the Web site, http://www.afit.edu/crpd/Academics.cfm.
Applications have to be submitted by Dec. 15.

AFAP training, symposium
Training for the annual Army Family Action Plan is March 9, with an alternate date of March 10.
Belvoir’s AFAP Symposium is March 12 and 13. The AFAP and the symposium is an Army-wide program that enables all members to raise issues of concern, make recommendations to improve quality of life and to ensure the standard of living keeps up with the changing times, on a global level.
Information and registration for the training is available from Colandra Sealey, program manager, 703-805-5556.
Information and registration for the symposium is available from Cassandra Walker, AFAP coordinator, 703-805-1150.
Training and the symposium are in Barden Education Center.

Consider volunteering
People who are looking to give back to the community, develop new skills, or just get out the house are welcome to volunteer.
Interested people are asked to contact Fort Belvoir Corps Volunteer Program Manager, Faitheleen Henderson, at Army Community Service, 9800 Belvoir Road, 703-805-4152, Faitheleen.Henderson
@conus.army.mil.

Items lost
A watch and some rings were lost at the end of October, believed to be in or near Specker Field House parking lot. They have sentimental value only. Anyone who has found the jewelry is asked to call Shari Myers, 703-704-2509.

Flu shots ending
The DeWitt Army Community Hospital continues its series of scheduled flu vaccination clinics. Because of a limited supply of the vaccine, mass immunization clinics are only open to eligible beneficiaries - people who are eligible to receive care at DeWitt.
Typically, beneficiaries include active-duty, Guard, Reserve and retired personnel and their family members. Unfortunately, there is not an abundant supply to vaccinate others.
Beneficiaries are able to receive either the FluMist or injectable vaccines. FluMist is for ages 2 to 49 with no chronic health problems. Injectables are for those individuals who are high risk - for example, those over 49 or have diabetes, asthma, heart disease, cancer, etc. - and are not eligible for the FluMist.
Flu shots are available from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Specker Field House on the following days: today and Tuesday through Dec. 11.
Flu shots at Barden Education Center are from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 11.
More information is available from the flu hotline, 703-805-0506. 

Talent show
The Sisters in Spirit Book Club’s Talent Show, An Evening with the Stars, Chapter II, The Showdown, is Saturday in the Franconia Moose Lodge, 7701 Beulah St., Alexandria, 22315.
Doors open at 7:30 p.m., followed by the talent show and free food at 8 p.m., and an after party from 10 p.m. to midnight.
Tickets are available for $15, two for $25.
Information is available from Sue Hubbard, ; or Danita Anderson, .

CYS in the villages
Staff from Child and Youth Services bring arts and crafts activities to the housing community centers. The events are free and open to all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Events are from 10 a.m. to noon. Dates are:
Tuesday, Vernondale
Dec. 17, George Washington
More information is available by calling 805-9117 or 9114 or 9116.

AFTB I
Army Family Team Building Level I, Navigating the Military Life, is Tuesday through Dec. 11 from 9:30 to 3 p.m. The class gives new spouses and employees new to the military an understanding of military life.
Classes are at 9800 Belvoir Road, Building 200, the Sosa building.
Registration and more information, including AFTB unit training requests, are available from Colandra Sealey, 703-805-5556, or via e-mail to Fb-mwr
.

Retired federal employees
Springfield Chapter 893 of the National Association of Retired Federal Employees, a nonprofit organization, meets Wednesday at 1:30 p.m.
The meeting is at The American Legion Post 176, 5620 Amherst Ave., Springfield, adjacent to Kay Jenning’s Springfield Toyota.
Information about the meeting or about the group is available from Sharon Forrest, 703-960-9017, .

Religion

Christmas tree-lighting
Fort Belvoir’s annual Christmas tree-lighting ceremony is 4 p.m. today at Belvoir Chapel.

Advent lunches
The Fort Belvoir Chaplain Office hosts Advent lunches Wednesday and Dec. 17 at noon at Woodlawn Chapel. Advent is a time when the Christian community celebrates the coming of Jesus Christ. The lunches include a meal, fellowship and homilies.

Children’s Christmas Play
The Children’s Christmas Play is Dec. 14. Practices are from 9 to 9:20 a.m. Sundays. All children are invited to participate. A dress rehearsal is Dec. 13 at 10 a.m.
More information is available from Mike Webb, 703-806-4179.

Breakfast with Angels
Belvoir’s Chapel Community again offers “Breakfast with Angels” on Christmas Eve morning, Dec. 24, at 8 a.m. in the Religious Education Center. Adults are admitted when accompanied by a child.
Children 10 and younger are invited. Breakfast will be served by angels and there will be face-painting, crafts and storytelling.
RSVP to Sister Michael or Mike Webb at 703-806-3418 or 4179.

Jewish
Upcoming Jewish services are: Dec. 19 - Shabbat Hanukkah Dinner, 6:30 p.m. in the Religious Education Center, with services following and a designated offering for Koby Mandell Foundation. $5 per person; $20 max per family. RSVP to Sara Astrow, 703-806-4196.
Dec. 20 - Saturday morning service, 9:30 a.m., with Rabbi Bash.
Dec. 21 - Menorah-lighting on chapel steps, 6:30 p.m., with program following in Fellowship Hall.
Fort Belvoir Jewish Congregation is in search of all new Jewish Soldiers and families.  The Fort Belvoir Jewish Congregation has weekly Friday night services at 8 p.m. at Belvoir Chapel.
Information is available from Sara Astrow, 703-806-4196.

Islamic services
The following are Islamic services in the area.
Salat Al Zuhr, afternoon prayer, 1:30 p.m. daily, Washington Navy Yard Chapel, Washington, D.C. Point of contact: Chaplain (Lt. Cmdr.) Saifulislam, 202-433-2611
Jumah, Friday prayer, 1:15 p.m., Quantico Prayer Center, Quantico Marine Corps Base POC: Mohammad Mukhtar, 703-670-0894
Jumah, 2 to 2:45 p.m. Fridays, Pentagon Room 1E438, Zadil Ansari, 703-602-7462
Salat Al Zuhr, daily from 2 to 2:45 p.m., Pentagon Room 1E474, POC: Zadil Ansari, 703-602-7462
Jumah, 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., Dar Ul Huda, 6666 Commerce St., Springfield POC: 703-922-0111.

Protestant Confirmation Classes
A Protestant confirmation class will be conducted from January to March, for Protestant children, 7th grade or older, who were baptized as children or want to be baptized. Parent approval is required to attend.
Chaplain Major Saul Cardona, Director of the Family Life Center, will lead the class.  More information will follow. More information is available from Mike Webb, 703-806-4179.

Barden Education Center
Central Michigan University
Central Michigan University classes are available at six locations in the D.C metro area, including Belvoir. Registration for Spring 2009 classes begins Monday.
The university offers a master of science in administration degree. Concentrations are available in human resources, leadership, public administration, acquisition, information resource management and general administration.
CMU accepts applications year round. Classes meet on alternating weekends or weekday evenings and new sessions begin every six weeks. Degrees can be completed in 18 months or less.
More information is available from Mary Pat Mabeus, 703-360-5336. CMU is in Room 139 at Barden.

Webster University and seminar
Webster University is registering for Spring 1 & 2 2009. Registration ends Dec. 19 and classes begin Jan. 5.
The university has a Research and Writing Skills Seminar Dec. 18 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Reservations must be made by Dec. 15.
Programs offered at Fort Belvoir include Master of Business Administration, Business & Organizational Security Management and Procurement & Acquisitions Management.
The GRE/GMAT is not required for admissions.
Evening classes are held at Barden Education Center.
Office hours are Mondays to Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Fridays 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
More information is available by calling 703-781-7942; stopping by Room 143 of Barden, via e-mail to or from http://www.webster.edu/dcmetro.

UMUC
University of Maryland University College is registering for spring classes. Face-to-face classes start Jan. 26 and March 23.
UMUC has four spring online sessions with the first one starting Jan. 18.
Some of UMUC’s Belvoir evening and weekend spring courses will be offered in a hybrid format. Students meet once a week in Barden Education Center and also in an online environment. Hybrid classes offer a great deal of flexibility for working adults.
UMUC is in Room 128 of Barden. Office hours are Mondays through Thursdays, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Fridays from 9 a.m. to noon.

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Briefs

Newcomer’s orientation
The next newcomer’s orientation is Monday in the Barden Education Center Auditorium.
Participants can learn about Fort Belvoir and what resources and events are available in the community, meet the installation command staff and key directorates among the installation.
Child care is provided with advance registration.
More information is available from Jaimie Gordon, 703-805-5058/3436 via e-mail to .

Enlisted spouses
The Belvoir Enlisted Spouse’s Club has its monthly meeting Dec. 9 at 6:30 p.m., in Vernondale Community Center. Enlisted Spouses of all services are encouraged to become members of this private, not-for-profit organization designed to create a family-oriented, informative and social interest group among enlisted families of the Belvoir and Military District of Washington.
Information about the organization, membership or the meeting is available by calling 703-781-4050.

International Spouses Group
Army Community Service’s International Spouse Group meets Dec. 8 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at George Washington Village Community Center, 5714 Surveyor Road.
The group is intended for foreign-born spouses who want to meet others.
Information is available from Christine Robinson, , 703-805-3436.

Items lost
A watch and some rings were lost at the end of October, believed to be in or near Specker Field House parking lot. They have sentimental value only. Anyone who has found the jewelry is asked to call Shari Myers, 703-704-2509.

Found items
Over the past several months, the Directorate of Emergency Services, Law Enforcement Lost and Found Property Custodian have collected several unclaimed bicycles and other items. Items are held for 90 days before they are turned over to the Defense
Reutilization and Marketing Office.
People who have lost any items and want to find out if they have been recovered by DES Police may contact Tim Brown, lost and found property custodian, 703-806-0146. Office hours are 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Mondays through Fridays and voice mail is available after normal duty hours. Some reasonable proof of ownership is required to claim any found property.

Flu shots
The DeWitt Army Community Hospital continues its series of scheduled flu vaccination clinics. Because of a limited supply of the vaccine, mass immunization clinics are only open to eligible beneficiaries - people who are eligible to receive care at DeWitt.
Typically, beneficiaries include active-duty, Guard, Reserve and retired personnel and their family members. Unfortunately, there is not an abundant supply to vaccinate others.
Beneficiaries are able to receive either the FluMist or injectable vaccines. FluMist is for ages 2 to 49 with no chronic health problems. Injectables are for those individuals who are high risk - for example, those over 49 or have diabetes, asthma, heart disease, cancer, etc. - and are not eligible for the FluMist.
Flu shots are available from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Specker Field House on the following days: Tuesday, Wednesday; Dec. 4, 9, 10 and 11.
Flu shots at Barden Education Center, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., are Dec. 11.
More information is available from the flu hotline, 703-805-0506. 

Talent show
The Sisters in Spirit Book Club’s Talent Show, An Evening with the Stars, Chapter II, The Showdown, is Dec. 6 in the Franconia Moose Lodge, 7701 Beulah St., Alexandria, 22315.
Doors open at 7:30 p.m., followed by the talent show and free food at 8 p.m., and an after party from 10 p.m. to midnight.
Tickets are available for $15, two for $25.
Information is available from Sue Hubbard, ; or Danita Anderson, .

USO photo contest
USO-Metro conducts an annual photography contest to determine the photo that will be on the front cover of its Guide to Metropolitan Washington. Monday is the deadline for the 11th annual contest. The winning photographer receives $300, and the winning photo will be featured on the upcoming guide’s cover.
Photos must have a military theme. The contest is open to all military ID card holders. Submissions can be mailed to Photography Contest, Attn: Leslie Smith, P.O. Box 1710, Fort Myer, Va., 22211-1101; or e-mailed to Smith at .

CYS in the villages
Staff from Child and Youth Services bring arts and crafts activities to the housing community centers. The events are free and open to all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Events are from 10 a.m. to noon. Dates are:
•Dec. 3, Lewis Village
•Dec. 9, Vernondale
•Dec. 17, George Washington
More information is available by calling 805-9117 or 9114 or 9116.

AFTB I
Army Family Team Building Level I, Navigating the Military Life, is Dec. 9 to 11 from 9:30 to 3 p.m. The class gives new spouses and employees new to the military an understanding of military life.
Classes are at 9800 Belvoir Road, Building 200, the Sosa building.
Child care will be provided. All children must be registered with Child and Youth Services before the class, with a child-care registration deadline of Monday.
Registration and more information, including AFTB unit training requests, are available from Colandra Sealey, 703-805-5556, or via e-mail to
.

Retired federal employees
Springfield Chapter 893 of the National Association of Retired Federal Employees, a nonprofit organization, meets Dec. 10 at 1:30 p.m.
The meeting is at The American Legion Post 176, 5620 Amherst Ave., Springfield, adjacent to Kay Jenning’s Springfield Toyota.
Information about the meeting or about the group is available from Sharon Forrest, 703-960-9017, .

Religion

Events
Advent lunches
The Fort Belvoir Chaplain Office hosts Advent lunches Dec. 3, 10, and 17 at noon at Woodlawn Chapel. Advent is a time when the Christian community celebrates the coming of Jesus Christ. The lunches include a meal, fellowship and homilies.

Christmas tree-lighting
Fort Belvoir’s annual Christmas tree-lighting ceremony is 4 p.m. Dec. 4 at Belvoir Chapel.

Protestant Confirmation Classes
A Protestant confirmation class will be conducted from January to March, for Protestant children, 7th grade or older, who were baptized as children or want to be baptized. Parent approval is required to attend.
Chaplain Major Saul Cardona, Director of the Family Life Center, will lead the class.  More information will follow. More information is available from Mike Webb, 703-806-4179.

Handel’s Messiah
Each year, Fort Belvoir’s choirs combine with community members to form a Belvoir Community Choir. The group performs, with a professional orchestra and soloists, Part One, the Christmas Section, of Handel’s Messiah.
This year’s performance is Dec. 7 at 7:30 p.m. at Belvoir Chapel. Music is provided. The last rehearsal, in the chapel’s basement, is at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday. A mandatory dress rehearsal is at 1 p.m. Dec. 6 at the chapel.
More information is available from Mary McAdory, 703-878-0551, ; or Jan McKeever, 703-313-8468,
.

Children’s Christmas Play
The Children’s Christmas Play is Dec. 14. Practices are from 9 to 9:20 a.m. Sundays. All children are invited to participate. A dress rehearsal is Dec. 13 at 10 a.m.
More information is available from Mike Webb, 703-806-4179.

Praise moves
Praise Moves, the Christian alternative to yoga, are Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 9:30 a.m. in the Religious Education Center. More information is available from Cynthia Thomas, 703-499-3380.

Protestant
Winter Sunday School
The winter quarter of Sunday School starts Dec. 7, with two adult classes scheduled:  “Human Commitment,“ character studies in the books of Luke, Exodus, Joshua, Judges, 2 Kings, 2 Samuel, Esther and Isaiah; and Walk As Jesus Walked.
There are also classes for pre-kindergarten, kindergarten, elementary, junior and senior high students.
More information is available from Mike Webb, 703-806-4179.

Jewish
Upcoming Jewish services are: Dec. 19 - Shabbat Hanukkah Dinner, 6:30 p.m. in the Religious Education Center, with services following and a designated offering for Koby Mandell Foundation. $5 per person; $20 max per family. RSVP to Sara Astrow, 703-806-4196.
•Dec. 20 - Saturday morning service, 9:30 a.m., with Rabbi Bash.
•Dec. 21 - Menorah-lighting on chapel steps, 6:30 p.m., with program following in Fellowship Hall.
Fort Belvoir Jewish Congregation is in search of all new Jewish Soldiers and families.  The Fort Belvoir Jewish Congregation has weekly Friday night services at 8 p.m. at Belvoir Chapel.
Information is available from Sara Astrow, 703-806-4196.

Islamic services
The following are Islamic services in the area.
Salat Al Zuhr, afternoon prayer, 1:30 p.m. daily, Washington Navy Yard Chapel, Washington, D.C. Point of contact: Chaplain (Lt. Cmdr.) Saifulislam, 202-433-2611
Jumah, Friday prayer, 1:15 p.m., Quantico Prayer Center, Quantico Marine Corps Base POC: Mohammad Mukhtar, 703-670-0894
Jumah, 2 to 2:45 p.m. Fridays, Pentagon Room 1E438, Zadil Ansari, 703-602-7462
Salat Al Zuhr, daily from 2 to 2:45 p.m., Pentagon Room 1E474, POC: Zadil Ansari, 703-602-7462
Jumah, 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., Dar Ul Huda, 6666 Commerce St., Springfield POC: 703-922-0111.

MWR
Miracle of Christmas
The Civilian Employee Fund sponsors a bus trip to see The Miracle of Christmas show Dec. 6. The event is at the Sight & Sound Millennium Theater in Lancaster, Pa., and costs $70 per person, due at signup.
The trip includes round-trip bus transportation, show and a buffet dinner and is open to all Belvoir DoD civilian employees and three guests on a first come, first served basis.  Tickets are available through Charlene Anderson, 703-805-4126, Bldg. 210, Mondays through Thursdays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The bus departs the Route 17 commuter lot at 7:30 a.m. and the Sosa, Bldg. 200, at 8:45 a.m., with snacks provided on the bus.

All-Army photography contest
Army MWR has a photography contest through Dec. 7. The contest is an annual, juried competition of digital image photographs, with separate divisions for active-duty and eligible civilian patrons. Each division has two classes: monochrome digital and color digital, with six categories each.
This year’s theme is “Animal Friends.“ The contest is web-based and entries can only be submitted online at the contest site, https://artscrafts.fmwrc.army.mil.

Barden Education Center
Central Michigan University
Central Michigan University classes are available at six locations in the D.C metro area, including Belvoir. Registration for Spring 2009 classes begins Monday.
The university offers a master of science in administration degree. Concentrations are available in human resources, leadership, public administration, acquisition, information resource management and general administration.
CMU accepts applications year round. Classes meet on alternating weekends or weekday evenings and new sessions begin every six weeks. Degrees can be completed in 18 months or less.
More information is available from Mary Pat Mabeus, 703-360-5336. CMU is in Room 139 at Barden.

Webster University and seminar
Webster University is registering for Spring 1 & 2 2009. Registration ends Dec. 19 and classes begin Jan. 5.
The university has a Research and Writing Skills Seminar Dec. 18 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Reservations must be made by Dec. 15.
Programs offered at Fort Belvoir include Master of Business Administration, Business & Organizational Security Management and Procurement & Acquisitions Management.
The GRE/GMAT is not required for admissions.
Evening classes are held at Barden Education Center.
Office hours are Mondays to Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Fridays 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
More information is available by calling 703-781-7942; stopping by Room 143 of Barden, via e-mail to or from http://www.webster.edu/dcmetro.

UMUC
University of Maryland University College is registering for spring classes. Face-to-face classes start Jan. 26 and March 23.
UMUC has four spring online sessions with the first one starting Jan. 18.
Some of UMUC’s Belvoir evening and weekend spring courses will be offered in a hybrid format. Students meet once a week in Barden Education Center and also in an online environment. Hybrid classes offer a great deal of flexibility for working adults.
UMUC is in Room 128 of Barden. Office hours are Mondays through Thursdays, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Fridays from 9 a.m. to noon.

Thursday, November 20, 2008

Briefs

Items lost
A watch and some rings were lost at the end of October, believed to be in or near Specker Field House parking lot. They have sentimental value only. Anyone who has found the jewelry is asked to call Shari Myers, 703-704-2509.
Found items
Over the past several months, the Directorate of Emergency Services, Law Enforcement Lost and Found Property Custodian have collected several unclaimed bicycles and other items. Items are held for 90 days before they are turned over to the Defense Reutilization and Marketing Office.
People who have lost any items and want to find out if they have been recovered by DES Police may contact Tim Brown, lost and found property custodian, 703-806-0146. Office hours are 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Mondays through Fridays and voice mail is available after normal duty hours. Some reasonable proof of ownership is required to claim any found property.

Flu shot limits
The DeWitt Army Community Hospital continues its series of scheduled flu vaccination clinics. Because of a limited supply of the vaccine, mass immunization clinics are only open to eligible beneficiaries - people who are eligible to receive care at DeWitt.
Typically, beneficiaries include active-duty, Guard, Reserve and retired personnel and their family members. Unfortunately, there is not an abundant supply to vaccinate others.
Beneficiaries are able to receive either the FluMist or injectable vaccines. FluMist is for ages 2 to 49 with no chronic health problems. Injectables are for those individuals who are high risk - for example, those over 49 or have diabetes, asthma, heart disease, cancer, etc. - and are not eligible for the FluMist.
Flu shots are available from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Specker Field House on the following days: Monday and Tuesday; and Dec. 2, 3, 4, 9, 10 and 11.
Flu shots at Barden Education Center, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., are Tuesday and Dec. 11.
More information is available from the flu hotline, 703-805-0506. 

TSP Web seminar
Belvoir Federal Credit Union hosts a Web seminar, “Get the Most Out of Your Thrift Savings Plan,“ Dec. 4 from noon to 1 p.m. 
Registration is available from the Webinar icon at the bottom of Belvoir FCU’s Web site, http://www.belvoirfcu.org.
Technical assistance is available from Bonnie Andresakes, 703-730-1800, ext. 5161.

Talent show
The Sisters in Spirit Book Club’s Talent Show, An Evening with the Stars, Chapter II, The Showdown, is Dec. 6 in the Franconia Moose Lodge, 7701 Beulah St., Alexandria, 22315.
Doors open at 7:30 p.m., followed by the talent show and free food at 8 p.m., and an after party from 10 p.m. to midnight.
Tickets are available for $15, two for $25.
Information is available from Sue Hubbard, ; or Danita Anderson, .

USO photo contest
USO-Metro conducts an annual photography contest to determine the photo that will be on the front cover of its Guide to Metropolitan Washington. The 11th annual contest’s deadline is Dec. 1. The winning photographer receives $300, and the winning photo will be featured on the upcoming guide’s cover.
Photos must have a military theme. The contest is open to all military ID card holders. Submissions can be mailed to Photography Contest, Attn: Leslie Smith, P.O. Box 1710, Fort Myer, Va., 22211-1101; or e-mailed to Smith at .

CYS in the villages
Staff from Child and Youth Services bring arts and crafts activities to the housing community centers. The events are free and open to all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Events are from 10 a.m. to noon. Dates are:
Dec. 3, Lewis Village
Dec. 9, Vernondale
Dec. 17, George Washington
More information is available by calling 805-9117 or 9114 or 9116.

AFTB I
Army Family Team Building Level I, Navigating the Military Life, is Dec. 9 to 11 from 9:30 to 3 p.m. The class gives new spouses and employees new to the military an understanding of military life.
Classes are at 9800 Belvoir Road, Building 200, the Sosa building.
Child care will be provided. All children must be registered with Child and Youth Services before the class, with a child-care registration deadline of Dec. 1.
Registration and more information, including AFTB unit training requests, are available from Colandra Sealey, 703-805-5556, or via e-mail to
.

Religion
Events

Islamic services
The following are Islamic services in the area.
Salat Al Zuhr, afternoon prayer, 1:30 p.m. daily, Washington Navy Yard Chapel, Washington, D.C. Point of contact: Chaplain (Lt. Cmdr.) Saifulislam, 202-433-2611
Jumah, Friday prayer, 1:15 p.m., Quantico Prayer Center, Quantico Marine Corps Base POC: Mohammad Mukhtar, 703-670-0894
Jumah, 2 to 2:45 p.m. Fridays, Pentagon Room 1E438, Zadil Ansari, 703-602-7462
Salat Al Zuhr, daily from 2 to 2:45 p.m., Pentagon Room 1E474, POC: Zadil Ansari, 703-602-7462
Jumah, 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., Dar Ul Huda, 6666 Commerce St., Springfield POC: 703-922-0111.

Advent Wreath Workshop
The chapel has an advent wreath workshop Nov. 30 at 12:30 p.m. in the Religious Education Center. Families can come and make an advent wreath for their homes. More information is available from Mike Webb, 703-806-4179, or Sister Michael, 703-806-3418.

Protestant Confirmation Classes
A Protestant confirmation class will be conducted from January to March, for Protestant children, 7th grade or older, who were baptized as children or want to be baptized. Parent approval is required to attend.
Chaplain Major Saul Cardona, Director of the Family Life Center, will lead the class.  More information will follow. More information is available from Mike Webb, 703-806-4179.

Handel’s Messiah
Each year, Fort Belvoir’s choirs combine with community members to form a Belvoir Community Choir. The group rehearses throughout November and then performs, with a professional orchestra and soloists, Part One, the Christmas Section, of Handel’s Messiah.
This year’s performance is Dec. 7 at 7:30 p.m. at Belvoir Chapel. Music is provided. Rehearsals, in the chapel’s basement, are at 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Dec. 2. A mandatory dress rehearsal is at 1 p.m. Dec. 6 at the chapel.
More information is available from Mary McAdory, 703-878-0551, ; or Jan McKeever, 703-313-8468, .

Children’s Christmas Play
The Children’s Christmas Play is Dec. 14. Practices are from 9 to 9:20 a.m. Sundays. All children are invited to participate. More information is available from Mike Webb, 703-806-4179.
Jewish
Fort Belvoir Jewish Congregation has weekly Friday night services at 8 p.m. at Belvoir Chapel.
Information on anything about the congregation is available from Sara Astrow, 806-4196.
Protestant
Winter Sunday School
The winter quarter of Sunday School starts Dec. 7, with two adult classes scheduled:  “Human Commitment,“ character studies in the books of Luke, Exodus, Joshua, Judges, 2 Kings, 2 Samuel, Esther and Isaiah; and Walk As Jesus Walked.
There are also classes for pre-kindergarten, kindergarten, elementary, junior and senior high students.
More information is available from Mike Webb, 703-806-4179.

Catholic
Children’s choir
The Catholic Children’s Choir begins Monday at 5 p.m. in the Religious Education Center. All children are encouraged to come and be a part of the chorus. The children sing on the first Sunday of the month and for the Christmas Children’s Mass.

MWR
Show in Lancaster, Pa.
The Civilian Employee Fund sponsors a bus trip to see The Miracle of Christmas show Dec. 6. The event is at the Sight & Sound Millennium Theater in Lancaster, Pa., and costs $70 per person, due at signup.
The trip includes round-trip bus transportation, show and a buffet dinner and is open to all Belvoir DoD civilian employees and three guests on a first come, first served basis.  Tickets are available through Charlene Anderson, 703-805-4126, Bldg. 210, Mondays through Thursdays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The bus departs the Route 17 commuter lot at 7:30 a.m. and the Sosa, Bldg. 200, at 8:45 a.m., with snacks provided on the bus.
Be appreciated
November is Military Family Appreciation Month. The Officers’ Club offers military families $1 off of its all-you-can-eat lunch buffet today and Friday. The buffet is Tuesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and costs $6.95 per person.  Diners must show military ID to get the special price.
More information is available by calling 703-780-0930.
All-Army photography contest
Army MWR has a photography contest through Dec. 7. The contest is an annual, juried competition of digital image photographs, with separate divisions for active-duty and eligible civilian patrons. Each division has two classes: monochrome digital and color digital, with six categories each.
This year’s theme is “Animal Friends.“ The contest is web-based and entries can only be submitted online at the contest site, https://artscrafts.fmwrc.army.mil.

Healing yoga class
Hour-long healing yoga classes are Tuesdays at 6 p.m., at the Fort Belvoir Community Center. The class is $7, pay as you go. People should bring a yoga mat, comfortable clothing and the need to relax and not eat two to three hours before class.
More information is available by calling 703-805-3714.

Barden Education Center
ODU transition program
Old Dominion University’s Military Career Transition Program is a Master of Education for initial teaching licensure. The teaching license is good in 44 states and DoD schools around the world. MCTP is a military-friendly program designed for the needs of active/retired veterans, military spouses and qualified civilians.
Licensure is offered in elementary, middle school and high school education in math, English, science and social studies. Courses are offered as live classes at Barden Education Center, weekend teletechnet courses at Marine Corps Base Quantico and online. Students who transfer before program completion can finish degree requirements via online/TTN courses and do student teaching at their new location.
ODU’s MCTP program adviser can meet with interested people to discuss education career opportunities, courses needed to teach the various academic subjects and the MCTP program in detail. ODU participates in the Troops to Teachers national program. More information and appointments are available from the Belvoir ODU office, 703-781-8203. Additional information is available from http://www.odu.edu/mctp.

NOVA
At NOVA Community College, spouses and dependents may also enroll. NOVA offers a variety of degree and certificate programs.
NOVA has guaranteed admission agreements with more than 40, four-year schools and offers in-class and online classes.
More information is available by stopping by Barden Education Center Room 127, by calling 703-360-8524, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Mondays through Fridays; or from http://www.nvcc.edu/woodbridge/military.html.

Central Michigan University
Central Michigan University classes are available at six locations in the D.C metro area, including Belvoir. Registration for Spring 2009 classes begins Dec. 1.
The university offers a master of science in administration degree. Concentrations are available in human resources, leadership, public administration, acquisition, information resource management and general administration.
CMU accepts applications year round. Classes meet on alternating weekends or weekday evenings and new sessions begin every six weeks. Degrees can be completed in 18 months or less.
More information is available from Mary Pat Mabeus, 703-360-5336. CMU is in Room 139 at Barden.

George Mason University
GMU’s Department of Public and International Affairs offers five, 15-credit graduate certificates and has courses at Fairfax and Arlington campuses.
George Mason’s Nonprofit Management certificate can be earned completely online. The Public Management certificate can be customized to focus on human resources management.
Information is available on the Web: pia.gmu.edu. A Mason representative is at Barden Education Center Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Webster University and seminar
Webster University is registering for Spring 1 & 2 2009. Registration ends Dec. 19 and classes begin Jan. 5.
The university has a Research and Writing Skills Seminar Dec. 18 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Reservations must be made by Dec. 15.
Programs offered at Fort Belvoir include Master of Business Administration, Business & Organizational Security Management and Procurement & Acquisitions Management.
The GRE/GMAT is not required for admissions.
Evening classes are held at Barden Education Center.
Office hours are Mondays to Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Fridays 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
More information is available by calling 703-781-7942; stopping by Room 143 of Barden, via e-mail to or from http://www.webster.edu/dcmetro.

UMUC
University of Maryland University College is registering for spring classes. Face-to-face classes start Jan. 26 and March 23.
UMUC has four spring online sessions with the first one starting Jan. 18.
Some of UMUC’s Belvoir evening and weekend spring courses will be offered in a hybrid format. Students meet once a week in Barden Education Center and also in an online environment. Hybrid classes offer a great deal of flexibility for working adults.
UMUC is in Room 128 of Barden. Office hours are Mondays through Thursdays, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Fridays from 9 a.m. to noon.

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Belvoir Briefs

Found items
Over the past several months, the Directorate of Emergency Services, Law Enforcement Lost and Found Property Custodian have collected several unclaimed bicycles and other items. Items are held for 90 days before they are turned over to the Defense Reutilization and Marketing Office.
People who have lost any items and want to find out if they have been recovered by DES Police may contact Tim Brown, lost and found property custodian, 703-806-0146. Office hours are 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Mondays through Fridays and voice mail is available after normal duty hours. Some reasonable proof of ownership is required to claim any found property.

Native American commemoration
The Fort Belvoir Equal Opportunity Office invites everyone to celebrate National Native American Indian Heritage Month from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 24 at the Community Club.
Presentations include dances that are performed as part of “Pow-Wows.“ Special events include hoop-dancing, big drums and flute-playing. The event includes authentic Native American Indian ethnic food sampling after the presentation.
More information is available from Master Sgt. Ernest Murray Jr., 805-2288.

Army warrant meeting
The Lord Fairfax Silver Chapter, US Army Warrant Officer Association, has its monthly Nov. 20 at 5 p.m., at the Kingstowne Library, on the corner of Beulah and Telegraph roads.
All active, reserve, and retired warrant officers are invited and encouraged to attend.
More information is available from CW3 Patrick Morris, chapter president, 703-945-3140.

Flu shots
Flu shots are available from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Specker Field House on the following days: Monday through Wednesday, Nov. 24 and 25; and Dec. 2, 3, 4, 9, 10 and 11.
Flu shots at Barden Education Center, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., are Nov. 25 and Dec. 11.
Beneficiaries can get the FluMist or injectable vaccines. FluMist is for ages 2 to 49 with no chronic health problems.
Injectables are for people who are high risk, for example, older than 49 with diabetes, asthma, heart disease, cancer, etc., and are not eligible for the FluMist.

USO photo contest
USO-Metro conducts an annual photography contest to determine the photo that will be on the front cover of its Guide to Metropolitan Washington. The 11th annual contest’s deadline is Dec. 1. The winning photographer receives $300, and the winning photo will be featured on the upcoming guide’s cover.
Photos must have a military theme. The contest is open to all military ID card holders. Submissions can be mailed to Photography Contest, Attn: Leslie Smith, P.O. Box 1710, Fort Myer, Va., 22211-1101; or e-mailed to Smith at .

Genealogical Society meeting
The Mount Vernon Genealogical Society meets at 1 p.m. Tuesday in Room 112 of Hollin Hall Senior Center, Alexandria. The meeting, free and open to the public, features a presentation, “CyberLibraries,“ presented by Sandy Clunies.
The program describes the ever-expanding sources of millions of pages
and images of original documents and books now available, how to find,  download and save them.
Clunies specializes in colonial American research and is active as the registrar in many lineage societies.
The senior center is four miles south of Alexandria, just off Fort Hunt Road, at 1500 Shenandoah Road.
Additional information about the meeting and MVGS is available from
http://www.MVGenealogy.org/. Questions about the program can be
directed to Harold McClendon, 703-360-0920, .

School trip
Fort Belvoir Elementary School has a family enrichment field trip to the Museum of American History in Washington, D.C., Dec. 6.
Information is available by calling 703-781-2767.

CYS in the villages
Staff from Child and Youth Services bring arts and crafts activities to the housing community centers. The events are free and open to all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Events are from 10 a.m. to noon. Dates are:
Dec. 3, Lewis Village Community Center
Dec. 9, Vernondale Community Center
Dec. 17, George Washington Community Center
For more information please call 805-9117 or 9114 or 9116.

Scouts at Mount Vernon
Historic Mount Vernon welcomes all Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and Camp Fire Club members (in uniform or wearing an official pin) to free admission during its Scouting Days program through Feb. 15.
More information is available from MountVernon.org.

AFTB Instructor Training
Instructor training for Army Family Team Building is Tuesday to Nov. to 21 from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Sosa, Bldg. 200.
Topics include planning, speaking on your feet, platform skills and more.
People who want to attend the training must have certificates for two of the three level courses.
Registration, more information and unit training requests are available through Colandra Sealey, 703 805-5556 or via e-mail to .

International Spouse Group
Army Community Service’s International Spouses Group meets Monday at 6 p.m. in Lewis Village Community Center, 8735 Abert Drive.
More information is available from Christine Robinson, , 703-805-3436.

Wounded Warrior director to speak
The Army Officers’ Wives Club of the Greater Washington Area hosts its November luncheon, featuring guest speaker Col. James S. Rice, director of the Army Wounded Warrior Program.
The luncheon is Nov. 20 at 10:30 a.m., in the Koran Ballroom at Fort Myer Officers’ Club. 
Rice will discuss the program and share the issues aff