MALS-16 FORERUNNER FREEBIES AND FUN

For any questions or concerns on any of the information provided please contact the Family Readiness Officer, Julia Gwynn at 858-577-6399, 858-603-7971 or Julia.gwynn@usmc.mil.

15 March-22 March

CONGRATULATIONS!!!! Congratulations to our very own SSgt Sizemore and GySgt McNeal on their marriagewe are so happy for you! NEW BABY FORERUNNERS Congratulations to LCpl Coballes on the birth of her baby girl. Welcome little forerunner! TIPS FROM THE FRO

Military Housing can be confusing here in San Diego. There are some homes that are full BAH and some that are discounted. Here is a tip. When researching our off base on base housing through Lincoln Military Housing, make sure you click on Naval Base San Diego as well as MCAS Miramar. There are so many more communities. Check it out at http://www.lincolnmilitary.com/lmh/index.cfm. Make sure to scroll to the bottom of the page and click on immediately available homes. This is the current availability for those particular housing areas. You can access all this info from the MALS-16 eMarine site. Semper Family, Juls

TIPS FROM THE HOMEFRONT~~~ Many of you are stay at home moms, coaches, mentors, friends and many other titles. Over the years we have made some mistakes and found some great shortcuts to be successful in this military life. TIPS from the Homefront are useful guides, advice, and lessons learned from our fellow Marine Corps and Navy Spouses. Please email me at Julia.gwynn@usmc.mil with your useful tips. They can be on cooking, cleaning, organizing, deployments, or any subject you want. So the first one comes from my own baby sister, Kira. She is a stay at home mom of my beautiful 1 year old niece, ViVi June, stationed in New River. Here is a useful tip from her home front: MAKE YOUR OWN LAUNDRY DETERGENT!

Homemade Laundry Soap 1/3 bar Fels Naptha or other type of soap cup washing soda cup borax powder ~You will also need a small bucket, about 2 gallon size~ Grate the soap and put the soap in a sauce pan. Add 6 cups water and heat it until the soap melts. Add the washing soda and the borax and stir until all of it is dissolved. Remove from heat. Pour 4 cups hot water into the bucket. Now add your soap mixture and stir. Now add 1 gallon plus 6 cups of water and stir. Let the soap sit for about 24 hours and it will gel. You use cup per load.

Side notes: 1-When you add the powder it is boils up like it is going to boil over. 2-Also, when it gels it gels! You have to use a spoon/whisk, or even better would be your hands, to mix it. 3- I generally use two scoops (1 cup) if its a big load, which generally speaking all of mine are. 4-I have been using it for awhile now it so far it has been great for getting everything out...that includes boy funk on cammies and a 1-yr-old. 5-We have had no skin issues 6-Some people do a double batch and just use the whole bar to one cup of each powder, mix, and pour into a five gallon bucket. Fill the rest with water.

CONDOLENCES

MALS-16 would like to give our condolences to LCpl Welch who recently lost his father. In lieu of flowers, donations are being accepted to cover the cost of the funeral. If you are able to give, please contact GySgt Workman at 577-1201.

FRIDAY NIGHT EXCURSION

March 16th, The Great Escape will be hosting a Friday Night Excusion to Ocean Beach. Available for all Active Duty. Sign up by 1900 the night of the trip. Van leaves The Great Escape at 20000 and picks you up at 0130. FREE!

MICROWAVE COOKING CLASS AT THE GREAT ESCAPE

Open to all Active Duty Enlisted service members. Theme this time is Buzz Foods. Eat, while you learn how to make quick and easy meals and snacks that taste good and are good for you. For questions or to register, contact Julie Burks at 858-577-7963 or call The Great Escape at 858-577-6171.

SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITY FOR SPOUSES

The 2012 Miramar OWC Scholarship has been made available online (http://www.miramar.usmc.mil/Miramar_Officers_Wives_Club/files/2012_OWC_Scholarship_Application.PDF). All eligible persons are encouraged to apply. All applications are reviewed by a panel of impartial judges on a pointbased system. Applicant anonymity is preserved throughout the review process to ensure fairness. Applicants are asked to complete and print out the application and mail it to the following address: Officers' Wives' Club at MCAS Miramar P.O. Box 45078 San Diego, CA 92145 All submissions must be postmarked by May 1, 2012 and received by May 5, 2012. Recipients will be notified by mail.

31st MEU AND 11TH MEU MID-DEPLOYMENT BRIEF

Calling all 31st and 11th MEU spouses. We have scheduled a mid-deployment brief for spouses on 27 March at the L.I.N.K.S. house from 6:30-8:30 P.M. Childcare available with advanced registration. Please contact the FRO at Julia.gwynn@usmc.mil

OPERATION SOLID CURTAIN

Solid Curtain/Citadel Shield (SC/CS) is a large scale, nationwide anti-terrorism and force protection training exercise that is held annually and will impact the San Diego area bases and installations from 19-24 March 2012.' Naval bases will be implementing FPCON Charlie and Delta at the gates to their bases. Changes will drastically delay getting into and out of Navy Bases in the Area. Essential Personnel Only. Wing anticipates 2-4 hour wait times to access Naval Bases once the FPCON levels elevate. All persons who have business aboard Navy bases should call ahead to confirm that the entity is open for business. Below is guidance from Lincoln Military Housing (attachment for their emergency Satellite Office during the height of the exercise) as well as info from Naval Medical Center Balboa regarding their operations.

UPDATED eMARINE SITE

SSgt Sizemore has been working very hard on our eMarine site. Please make sure you are checking it for helpful information, pictures, and guidance from the Command. This is our official MALS-16 website and social networking site. If you are a family member and have not been invited to register go to https://www.emarine.org/skins/eMarine/display.aspx? action=display_page&mode=User&ModuleID=8cde2e88-3052-448c-893dd0b4b14b31c4&ObjectID=c1a88acb-bbcf-4a38-ae29-958097006c99 and click on invite family members guide.

WHAT EVENTS DO YOU WANT!!!

Let your voice be heard. We are looking for ideas for family day/unit events. If there is something fun you think we should do as a unit event, please contact Julia Gwynn at 577-6399 or Julia.gwynn@usmc.mil

MCCS OPPORTUNITIES
Thurs, March 15

*P.S. Before You Say I Do Pre-Marital Seminar, 7:30 a.m. 4 p.m., The HUB, 577-4443 to register -L.I.N.K.S. Session for Marines, 12 4:30 p.m., L.I.N.K.S. House, Visit your FRO to register -Real Stress I, 1 3 p.m., Counseling Center, 858-577-6585 to register

March 16-24 Fri, March 16

-American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor Course, WST Pool, $200/person, 858-577-4137 to regis -Corned Beef & Cabbage $6.95 Special All Day, Legends Sports Grill, 858-693-1543 -Shiseido Makeup Artist Event, 10 a.m. 6 p.m., MCX Main Store, 858-695-7817 to reserve a spot -Miramar OWC St. Pattys Day Happy Hour, 4 8 p.m., Officers Club, 858-577-4808 -Burn Your Own Steak, 5 8 p.m., Officers Club, 858-577-4808 *Operation Magic: FREE Comedy/Magic Show, 7 p.m., 18 and Over Only, Bob Hope Theater, 577-6365 -Bulldog Bike Race, 8 a.m., Camp Pendleton, www.camppendletonraces.com -Corned Beef & Cabbage $6.95 Special All Day, Legends Sports Grill, 858-693-1543 -St. Patricks Day Party, Karaoke DJ and Food/Drink Specials, Legends Sports Grill, 858-693-1543 -Parent Support Program Baby Boot Camp 9 a.m. 3:30 p.m., The HUB Room 6, 858-577-9812 to register

Sat, March 17

Mon, March 19

Tues, March 20 -MCAS Miramar Education Fair, 10 a.m. 2 p.m., The Hub Miramar Room, 858-577-1801 -Hula Hoop Challenge, 11:30 a.m., The Great Escape, 858-577-6171 -Tobacco Cessation Class (3 of 3), 11:30 a.m. 12:30 p.m., Semper Fit Center, 858-577-1331 -Girls on Guard Level 1, 11 a.m. 1 p.m., Youth & Teen Center, 858-577-6306 Wed, March 21 -Dollar Day Wednesday Golf: $1.00 Golf All Day for Miramar Active Duty, 858-577-4155 -Navy Marine Corps Relief Society Budget for Baby Class, 9 10:30 a.m., L.I.N.K.S. House, 577-1807 -Ultimate Nutrition Workshop, 11:30 a.m. 12:30 p.m., Semper Fit Center, 858-577-7963 -Creating Financial Freedom, 1 3 p.m., The HUB Classroom 1, 858-577-1279 to register -Domestic Violence Awareness, 1 3 p.m., Counseling Center, 858-577-6585 to register -Career Resource Center, Federal Jobs & Applications, 1 - 3 p.m., The Hub, 858-577-6710

NASCAR TICKETS Auto Club Speedway 400 VENUE: Fontana, CA SHOW DATES & TIMES: Sunday, March 25, 2012 PRICING:

SEATING * Tier 3 * Tier 2 * Tier 1 * Pit Pass

ITT 52.00 41.25 30.25 22.25

GATE 95.00 75.00 55.00 55.00

Miramar ITT, Elrod Ave, Bldg 2524, MCAS Miramar 858-577-4141 or 4126

GET ON TRACK WITH DEPLOYMENT SUPPORT

High stress levels are common in our culture. The daily demands of work, family, community, and technology affect most of us to some degree. It is how we cope with the stress that really makes a difference. Join Readiness & Deployment Support for Get On Track! A workshop designed to provide you with healthy ways to relieve your stress. When: March 20, 2012 1100-1300 Where: Miramar Sports Complex Track Contact Samantha Cook-Watt @ samantha.cookwatt@usmc.mil to register. Get on Track!

UPCOMING CLASSES

Registration is required for all classes and childcare reimbursement is available for all CPR classes but not for the Car Buying or First Time Homebuyers Workshop. Please note that CPR classes fill up quickly so registering at least 2 weeks in advance is recommended What: Car Buying Class Who: Active Duty/Dependents, Reservists/Dependents, DOD Civilians, Retirees When: Tuesday, March 20 0800-0900 Where: Marine & Family Programs, Bldg 2525 How: Call 858-577-6195 or email stacy.brooks@usmc.mil to register ********************************************************************************************* What: Heart Saver CPR (Adult, Child, Infant), AED, First Aid taught by Fire Station Who: Active Duty/Dependents, Reservists/Dependents, DOD Civilians, Retirees When: April 4, April 25, June 27, July 25 0900-1530 Where: Fire Station, Bldg 7224 Cost: $6.00 for 2 year certification through American Heart Association How: Call 858-577-6195 or email stacy.brooks@usmc.mil to register ********************************************************************************************* What: Healthcare Providers Course (CPR for Healthcare Professionals) Who: Active Duty/Dependents, Reservists/Dependents, DOD Civilians, Retirees When: May 30, August 29 0900-1530 Where: Fire Station, Bldg 7224 Cost: $6.00 for 2 year certification through American Heart Association How: Call 858-577-6195 or email stacy.brooks@usmc.mil to register ********************************************************************************************* What: Heart Saver CPR (Adult, Child, Infant), AED, First Aid taught by Marine & Family Programs Who: Active Duty/Dependents, Reservists/Dependents, DOD Civilians, Retirees When: April 5, April 21, May 18, June 16, July 13, August 18, September 14 0900-1500

Where: Marine & Family Programs, Bldg 2525 Cost: $5.00 for 2 year certification through American Heart Association How: Call 858-577-6195 or email stacy.brooks@usmc.mil to register ********************************************************************************************* What: First Time Homebuyers Workshop Who: Active Duty/Dependents, Reservists/Dependents, DOD Civilians, Retirees (Children are not allowed and no childcare is provided). When: Saturday, April 21 0900-1600 Where: Transition Room at the HUB, Bldg 5305 How: Call 858-577-6195 or email stacy.brooks@usmc.mil to register

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

SAN DIEGO YOUNG MARINES UNIT Volunteering opportunity for Marines aboard MCAS Miramar, This is the Marine Corps' Drug Demand Reduction Program. Need motivated Marines (Any rank) looking to gain experience in mentoring young adults ages 8-18 or Marines that can volunteer in other areas is always welcome. Must attend Drill Instructor class on the 17th and/or 24th March to DI the boot camps. Contact the staff at www.sandiegoyoung marines.org, sdyoungmarines@gmail.com or 1-858-208-3702. Where: MCAS Miramar Library Bldg 5305 When: Saturday's starting 17th March from 0800-1400 Attire: MARPAT cammies LOA: Volunteer hours are recorded and LOAs will be given every quarter for all volunteers. Feeding America San Diego: We will be sorting and stocking the Feeding America San Diego warehouse to make sure our local San Diegans in need are fed. Help sort and package food for distribution to food banks throughout San Diego. Kids are welcome ages 6 and up. (Wednesday, 14 and 28 March 1800-2000) (30 VOLUNTEERS MAX) Moonlight Beach Cleanup: The ASY is pairing up with San Diego Coastkeeper for a beach and street cleanup. All tools and equipment will be provided. Families welcome! (Saturday, 17 March 0900-1100) (50 VOLUNTEERS MAX) Neighborhood Exchange: We have partnered up with the San Diego Food Bank! Volunteers needed for organizing food for hundreds of military families for a free food giveaway. Volunteers are also needed for set up, carrying food to cars and breakdown. (Thursday, 22 March 0845-1300) (60 VOLUNTEERS MAX) Lakeside River Park Cleanup: We will be cleaning areas around the park to help restore it to its natural habitat. All supplies will be provided. FREE lunch for all volunteers! (Friday, 30 March 1000-1300) (35 VOLUNTEERS MAX)

LOOKING FOR A FEW GOOD COACHES

The MCAS Miramar Falcons are looking for a few great assistant coaches (active duty/non-active duty/civilians) to help develop and kick off our base football program this year. If you want to be a part of a perennial championship team and have the commitment and time to contribute, please give Todd Howard a call at 577-1202 for more information. The 2012 football season is around the corner and the preparation towards defending our Best of West Title has begun.

BOB HOPE THEATRE SHOW TIMES

Thurs. March 15:Big Miracle (PG) 2:00 p.m. The Grey (R) 6:30 p.m.

Fri. March 16: Operation Magic: FREE Comedy & Variety Show Adult Content, 18 & Over Only. 7:00 p.m. Doors Open at 6:00 p.m. Sat. March 17: Swap Meet 8:00 a.m. 2:00 p.m. Chronicle (PG-13) 6:30 p.m. One for the Money (PG-13) 9:00 p.m. Sun. March 18: *Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close (PG-13) 1:00 p.m. *Red Tails (PG-13) 6:30 p.m. Wed, March 21:Safe House (R) 6:30 p.m.

SAVE THE DATE

MCDonalds MCAS Miramar, Grand Opening $1.00 Big Macs from 1030-1800. Door Prizes including a Apple IPad, 55 TV, and IPods, March 22, 1000-1800. Mother Daughter Tea

Montevista Retirement Community and the San Diego Armed Services Y would like to invite Military moms and daughters to a special 6th Annual Mother Daughter Tea on April 5th from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Join us at Montevista for fun family bonding event with full tea service and desserts. This event is open to all mothers and daughters, ages 4 to 16 years of age who are military or dependants. Military mother daughters are encouraged to dress up for this fun occasion. Feel free to wear hats and fun outfits! A prizes will be given out for best hat and outfits

CAREER FAIR MCAS Miramar Career Resource Center is hosting a Career Fair on 11 April, 2012 from 10 am-1PM at Bldg 5305, Room 177. For more information, contact 858-577-6710/4829 or visit mccsmiramar.com. FOUR LENSES FOR MALS-16

Have you ever wondered why you make such a good friend? Every wonder if you were born just a super organized person? Do you have that friend that is always on the go? Four Lenses is for you. It is an amazing class put on by Lifeskills. We have scheduled a MALS-16 Four Lenses for Spouses on 19 April from 6-8 P.M. at the MCFTB Training room, Bldg 2525. Come and join us for a great night! I promise you wont be disappointed. Childcare is available with advanced registration. Please contact Julia Gwynn the FRO at 858-577-6399 or Julia.gwynn@usmc.mil to sign up.

COMMAND FINANCIAL SPECIALIST TRAINING

The next Command Financial Specialist(CFS) course is April 23-27. Please see attached flyer and agenda. The location will be at The Hub, classroom #1. All interested candidates should CONTACT Craig Hughes @ craig.hughes@usmc.mil or 858-577-9802 with name, rank, unit, and POC telephone. Participants will be provided further details by email prior to the start of class.

FIGHT LIKE A GIRL FOR DEPLOYED SPOUSES

I can't think of a better way to let all the deployment emotions out than kicking the crap out of something! Not to mention, the ability to defend yourself can come in handy when our big bad Marines and Sailors aren't around. This class is scheduled for May 2 & 3 from 9-11Am at the Child Youth and Teen Center. Please RSVP to me Julia.gwynn@usmc.mil. Childcare with advanced registration.

MID-DEPLOYMENT WORKSHOP FOR 466 AND MALS-16 OEF SPOUSES

Calling all 466 and MALS-16 OEF Spouses. We have scheduled a mid-deployment brief for spouses on 22 May at the L.I.N.K.S. house from 6:30-8:30 P.M. Childcare available with advanced registration. Please contact the FRO at Julia.gwynn@usmc.mil

MALS-16 FORERUNNER DAY AT THE PARK Save the Date. The Forerunner Day at the Park for Marines and their families is scheduled for June 29th at Admiral Baker Park. More details to follow!

ONGOING RESOURCES

LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS Calling all volunteers! If you are interested in volunteering with MALS-16, whether it is to bake cookies, help with events, put together welcome folders, or send package abroad, we are looking for you. There is no training required to be a volunteer. Please contact Julia Gwynn at 577-6399 or Julia.gwynn@usmc.mil. If you are interested in joining the Family Readiness Team as an advisor or assistant, please contact Angel DeLuz at 858-577-1322 to register for training. Once you have completed the Family Readiness Asst/Adv training, you and I can sit down and go over the ins and outs of being a part of the team.

EVER THOUGHT OF SPACE A TRAVEL? If you ever wondered about Space A Travel, check out this link:
http://www.amc.af.mil/shared/media/document/AFD-120206-033.pdf

DSTRESS: FOR MARINES BY MARINES

From the everyday stressors of life to the stressors related to combat, stress can affect even the strongest Marine. The DSTRESS Line was developed by the Corps to provide professional, anonymous counseling for Marines, attached Sailors, and families when it's needed most. Call today to speak with one of your own. MILITARY ONE SOURCE
Its not just a catchy name. THEY ARE ONE SOURCE! From taxes to counseling, to resources, they can help you 24-7, 365 days a year. They offer $4500 in free tuition for spouses looking to go to college for a portable career. Rank restriction for the grant is E5 and below, O3 and below, and WO-WO2. Contact them at 1-800-342-9647 or log on to militaryonesource.com