When we hear the word “retirement”, we tend to think of white-haired couples sitting in rockingchairs, but a military Retiree can even be under 40! Retirement is just the door to the next stage of yourlife. It doesn’t have to mean that you don’t have anything to do anymore or that you have nothing tooffer others. What it does mean is that now you have time to do the things you’ve always wanted to do.Start a new career or hobby; eat at home or dine out; be in a stage production or become involved inyour local government; go south and enjoy the warm weather or go north and enjoy the snow; volunteer at the school your children or grandchildren attend – it’s all about what you want to do now.As Ramon shares in his article on page 13 , “Don’t just allow retirement to happen to you, plan for it.”

EditorCynDe Clack

ContributorsArt ConnDebbie Fields Ramon M. MaisonetJessica RyanVal Throckmorton

PublisherCreative ink

Creative DirectorSears Hallett

Advertising931-801-4531 sales@creativeinktn.com

PhotographyDana ChangoCynDe ClackJessica RyanLisa TaylorDeborah Young

The Leaf ChronicleGreg Williamson pg 9

Clarksvilleonline.comBill Larson pg 10

Think Stock pgs 5, 13, 14

Disclaimers:Fort Campbell’s MWR Life Magazine is a monthlymagazine produced by the Fort Campbell MWRMarketing Department under the authority of AR215-1. Facilities and activities publicized are opento authorized patrons.The mention or appearanceof commercial advertisers, commercial sponsorsand/or their logos does not constitute endorsement by the Federal Government. The information in this issue is current at the timeof publication; activities and events are subject tochange.

MWR Marketing is located at 5663 ScreamingEagle Blvd, Fort Campbell, Kentucky. For moreinformation, call 270-798-7535 or log on towww.fortcampbellmwr.com.24 hr. event line - 270-798-3172 www.facebook.com/fortcampbellmwr

Inside this issue3 Veterans in the Community

The Spirit of DeterminationSFC (Ret) Tommy Vallejos cares about his community.

5 Off the Beaten PathSnow Bird or Snow Dog?Plenty of activities whether you like it cold or hot.

6 Healthy LivingEating Healthy & Staying ActiveTips for when you are eating out.

8 Bright LightsAll the World’s a Stage...It’s never too late to blossom as an entertainer.

9 Home Town Hero Bringing Music to the CommunityMichael Ritter shares his passion for music.

11 Spotlight on MWRKeep Your Kitchen CleanThere are four unique restaurants on post for you to enjoy.

13 Perspective ManagementRetire From Your Job, Not From Your Life.Change your perspective and enjoy the “Golden Years”.

15 Style Your LifeMinimize Your House to Maximize Your LifeFive easy steps to free up space in your home.

16 TransitionsThe Winds of ChangeRetired with young children.

17 In the KnowSave the DateWeek of the Eagles 2014.

CynDe Clack, Editormwrliferetiree@fortcampbellmwr.com

Retired and Active

On the CoverSFC (Ret) Tommy Vallejos

Tommy Vallejos at a Montgomery County Commission meeting as he listens to the discussion and prepares to vote.

“The Army was a plus for me, it showed me the value of camaraderie, the value of community, the value of flag and country – and when you get it – it clicks on you – and WOW. I joined in 1980 and never looked back.”SFC (Ret) Tommy J. Vallejos, Sr.

I recently spent an afternoon talking with Tommy and notonly was it an informative and enjoyable time; he opened my eyesto things in our community that I didn’t know.

Tommy was born and raised in Roswell, New Mexico, wherehis Family lived in a poor neighborhood and struggled to makeends meet. “My upbringing was just not a very good upbringing”,he said. “When I came into the military, and it wasn’t by choice,it changed my life. We were an impoverished Family and my wayout was the military.”

He was only 17 when he joined the military. He started outwith the National Guard in 1980 and went on active duty in May1981. When asked how he felt the military helped him becomethe person he is today, he replied, “It gave me discipline in areasof my life that I didn’t have. I didn’t have structure and I didn’thave discipline. Let me tell you what the military gave me, it gaveme the will to win. I was a leader and I had to push and persevere. I tell the young infantry Soldiers today, ‘we didn’t haveponcho liners’ - they would give us a wool blanket and if it rainedthat wool blanket would weigh 100 pounds. The infantry taughtme things that no other unit could have.”

When Tommy retired in May 2001, he didn’t just sit back andrelax. He brought that spirit of determination into his life as amilitary Retiree. His life as a Retiree began with a part time

ministry at Faith Outreach Church while he also worked at UPS.In 2005, he started a full time ministry and began to engage himself in the community. He worked with the Hispanic Organization for Progress and Education (HOPE) and initiatedwork with the Hispanic community by assisting to set up English classes, helping them with food, and helping them understand how to become an American citizen. He discovered hewanted to become politically involved, so in 2010, he ran for theoffice of County Commissioner for the 14th District in Montgomery County - and won. He was the first Hispanic CountyCommissioner in the state of Tennessee and was recently selectedto be the next President of the Tennessee County CommissionersAssociation, where he will represent county commissioners fromall 95 Tennessee counties. He plans to lobby for things that willstrengthen our county government. “That’s why I love doingthese things”, he said “because I can represent the people.”

I found his energy level to be amazing and his enthusiasmcontagious! He is a Board Member of: the State of Tennessee Disproportionate Minority Confinement Task Force (DMC), theTennessee Youth Court, the Matthew Walker ComprehensiveHealth Clinic, The Black Children’s Institute of Tennessee, the APSU Hispanic Culture Center, Freedom Outreach International/Church of God, and the Fort Campbell Chapter ofthe Association of the United States Army (AUSA). He is also amember of the Military Affairs Committee for the ClarksvilleChamber of Commerce and sits on the Circle of Advisors for thePresident of Austin Peay State University.

As if these commitments weren’t enough, he teaches CultureAwareness, consults in Diversity, and is an Instructor in GangAwareness. When I asked about his work with Gang Awareness,

3

Veterans in the Community

by CynDe ClackThe Spirit of Determination

4

he explained that he teaches and lectures and shares stories ofhis own young life; all in the hopes of raising awareness of gangactivity, and prevention and intervention. He shared that, for him,that’s what success is, “seeing a young kid that would end up inprison or reform school or even dead in the street from a drug overdose or gang violence; seeing that kid turn around, that’s impactful.”

I asked where he found the time to do all that he does, and hereplied that he finds his strength in God and his encouragementcomes from his wife Carol. “Who”, he said, “for 19 years of my military career kept our Family straight and in order.” Tommytold me, “I married my bride of 31 years, Caroline Vallejos, in August 1982 and I have four beautiful children and four grandkids.”

During his military career he spent time at many posts bothstateside and overseas. He feels that some of his greatest accomplishments were being able to turn a Soldier around andsee that Soldier go on to succeed. He shared that he loved beinga Drill Sergeant. “As a Drill Sergeant, I got to impact young menthat came in. Some came to me as cry babies and left as men. I got to see the smile on their parents’ faces as they saw their sons succeed.”

This leadership quality is something else he has carried intohis life after the military. He believes that everyone can do more.He asked me that - if I were doing more and you were doing more– could I imagine the positive outcome? His goal is to help othersbecome “determinators” – “determine minded and encouragersto others. There are kids out there that need one word of encouragement. Can you imagine if a lot of Retirees get involvedand immersed themselves in the community? We could change

this city – we could take back this city.” In his goal to be a leader,he has completed Leadership Clarksville, Leadership Middle Tennessee and is currently in Leadership Clarksville Montgomery County School System (CMCSS).

In 2010, Tommy was the third recipient of the Johnny HayesDream Award from the Tennessee Immigrant and RefugeeRights Coalition (TIRRC). This Award honors a city or community leader who works to facilitate the full civic participation of new immigrants and refugees. In 2012, he washonored as the Tennessee Small Business Association MinorityBusiness Champion.

One of his duties as a County Commissioner for the 14th District is as a member of the Budget Committee. “I’m proud thatI’ve served on the Budget Committee”, he said “helping set thebudget for our county government which represents the courtcomplex, the sheriff’s department and our school system.” The

Leaf Chronicle once referred to him as the “Budget Hawk”. “Oneof my proud accomplishments as a County Commissioner is always finding ways to cut the budget, always finding a way tocut more money from the budget to save the tax payers.”

When asked if he had a message that he would like to sharewith the Fort Campbell community, he replied, “I would like toshare with the Fort Campbell community that I left the militarybut my heart is still here. I will always speak for you and I will always stand for you. I am so proud of what you continue to do asnew Soldiers coming aboard. You continue to show you care, somy message to you is embrace the communities which you neighbor - Kentucky, Oak Grove, Hopkinsville, Clarksville, embrace them and become part of them. My message to FortCampbell is thank you for allowing us as Retirees to stay here tosupport you and you to support us. Thank you so much.”

In closing, he shared this advice for other Retirees, “Have avoice and let your voice be heard. Get outside, get to know yourneighbors; get to know your community; get to know your city.Get involved, do things you couldn’t do as an active duty person;get involved in the political system; get involved in how your taxdollars are being spent; get involved. If you want something todo, give me a call, email me, I will find something. We’re feedingthe hungry all across the city; we’re housing the homeless; we’rehelping mentor kids. If you want something to do, call me, I’llhelp you out.” tvallejos@faithoutreach.org • 931-358-3010.

Are you a “Snow Bird” that heads south for a winter vacation or areyou a “Snow Dog” that heads north to enjoy winter sports? I’m a SnowBird! I prefer to go south anytime of the year but especially when it’swinter. My husband and son, on the other hand, will go north for winter sports.

For those of us who like warmer weather, there are all kinds of interesting things to see and do. We all know about the large tourist attractions and if that’s what you enjoy - then go for it. I like the unusual, odd, off-the-wall places. In Panama City Beach, Florida, you’llfind Man in the Sea Museum where they have a large collection of rare diving equipment, including the famous SEALAB-1.Owned by the Institute of Diving, the Man in the Sea Museum showcases the progress of underwater technology, from the earliestdays of diving to the most modern underwater habitats.

Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park in Homosassa Springs,Florida is one of the few places where you can see endangered West Indian Manatees, Whooping Cranes, Florida Key Deer and Red Wolvesup close. “The Fish Bowl” is a floating underwater observatory that offers a below-the-surface view ofmanatees and fish in the crystalclear spring environment. Theyalso offer three manatee programs,two wildlife encounters, and an alligator/hippopotamus programthroughout the day.

Continue down the coast and hitUS41 Tamiami Trail and stop at theSkunk Ape Research Headquartersin Ochopee, Florida. The Skunk Apeis the Florida Everglades version ofBigfoot. Whether you believe or not– it’s a fun visit. While you’re theremake sure to take your picture with the Skunk Ape statue.

As you travel on US41 (toward Miami) you’ll begin to see roadsideadvertising for alligator demonstrations, airboat rides, Indian craftsand more. Take the time to stop and explore. It’s beautiful country andan airboat ride through the Everglades is exhilarating!

Before you reach Miami, take a detour onSouth Dixie Highway to The Coral Castle. It’sestimated that 1,000 tons of coral rock wereused in construction of the walls and towersand an additional 100 tons of it were carved

into furniture and artobjects. The CoralCastle was quar-ried, fashioned,transported andconstructed between

1920 and 1940 by one man: Edward Leedskalnin; a 5 foottall, 100 pound,Latvianimmigrant.

For those of you likemy husband and son –who like to play in thesnow – did you knowthat you can go skiingor snowboarding just afew short hours away. With areas such as Ober Gatlinburg, Tennessee;Paoli Peaks, Indiana; or Sugar Mountain, North Carolina; you don’thave to drive too far for fun in the snow. These resorts offer great options for the novice or the expert. While the snow may not be naturemade due to our unpredictable climate here in the mid-south, rest assured, man can make enough snow at each of these resorts to keepyou entertained. Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort and Amusement Park is

a year round attraction. During the winter months, you’llfind skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing. In the last fewyears, they’ve opened a state-of-the art Snow Tubing Parkand a Freestyle Terrain Park. They also have year roundindoor ice skating.

Paoli Peaks has skiing and snowboarding facilitieswith an uphill capacity of 11,200 skiers per hour. TheirArctic Blast Snow Tubing Facility has up to 9 lanes of snowcovered, 700 foot long slopes. They have two Terrain Parks:“Bonk” is for beginners and “Empire Park” has more intermediate to advanced features.

Sugar Mountain Resort has skiing, snowboarding,snow tubing, a terrain park and an outdoor ice skating rink.

There are plenty of unusual and off-the-wall things to see on the wayto wherever you decide to go. Check out this website I found, www.roadsideamerica.com.

Leisure Travel Services can help you with your vacation. Whetheryou’re a “Snow Bird” or a “Snow Dog”; whether it’s a long weekend ora couple of weeks (or longer); they have all the information and resources to assist you with your plans, tickets, reservations and more.You can visit their office, located in the Exchange Mall (opposite endfrom the food court), Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., orgive them a call at (270) 798-7436.

by CynDe Clack

Snow Bird or Snow Dog? Off The Beaten Path

5

6

Eating out is just easier sometimes. You’ve worked all day anddon’t want to cook; your children have all moved out and it’s notfun to cook for just one or two; you want a grilled steak but it’sraining outside – there are lots of reasons why we eat out. Eatingout is fine as long as you make healthy choices. Here are sometips from www.choosemyplate.gov for eating healthy when eating out.

Whoops! You splurged and had an appetizer, entrée anddessert and now you feel guilty. Add some activity to your dailyschedule and you won’t have to feel guilt about your occasionaltreats. First, check with your health care provider before youbegin a new physical activity then choose activities that you enjoyand can do regularly. To be ready anytime, keep some comfortable clothes and a pair of walking or running shoes in thecar. Here are some ways to increase your physical activity fromwww.choosemyplate.gov.

Healthy Living

www.fortcampbellmwr.com

Shared from www.choosemyplate.gov

Eating Healthy & Staying Active(how to eat out without guilt)

Most important — have fun while being active!

7

1. Air Assault Auto (270) 956-1101/1100

2. Army Community Service (270) 798-9322

3. Army Education Center (270) 798-3201

4. Arts & Crafts Center(Guenette) (270) 798-6693

4. Engraving Etc (270) 798-0171

5. Auto Skills North (270) 798-5612

6. Baldonado Pool (270) 798-5207

7. Cole Park Community Activities Center (270) 798-4610 x119

8. Cole Park Golf Club (270) 798-4906/1822

8. 19th Hole Snack Bar (270) 798-4610 x106

8. Cole Park Southern Buffet (270) 798-4610 x112

9. D.W. Recreation Center (270) 798-7391

10. Dawg Haus (270) 798-0766

11. Destiny Parks & Pavilions (270) 798-2175

12. Dolan Pool (270) 798-5350

13. Estep Wellness Center (270) 798-4664/4023

14. Fort Campbell Riding Stables (270) 798-2629

15. Fratellenico Physical Fitness Facility (270) 798-9418

16. Freedom Fighters Physical Fitness Facility (270) 798-7355

17. Gardner Indoor Pool (270) 798-6310

18. Gear-To-Go (270) 798-6806

19. Gertsch Physical Fitness Facility (270) 798-2753

20. Hooper Bowling Center (270) 798-5887

21. Leisure Travel Services (270) 798-7436

22. Lozada Physical Fitness Facility (270) 798-4306

23. North Softball Complex (270) 798-3320

24. Olive Physical Fitness Facility (270) 798-4101

25. Outdoor Recreation(Main Office) (270) 798-2175

26. Paintball (270) 798-4620

27. R.F. Sink Library (270) 798-5729

28. Single Pool (270) 798-4247

29. Skeet Range (270) 412-4015

30. South Softball Complex (270) 798-3320

31. Sports Admin Office / Fryar Stadium (270) 798-3094

32. Sportsman's Lodge (931) 431-4140

33. The Zone (270) 461-0603

34. Veterinary Services (270) 798-3614

MWR Information (270) 798-7535

Wickham

Stillwell

Airborne St

Wickham

Wickham

William C. Lee Rd Air Assault St

Air Assault St

29th 131 /

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30th 35th

42nd

46th

49th

50th

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53rd

57th

59th Glider Rd

Norm

andy Blvd

Screaming Eagle Blvd

Screaming Eagle Blvd

Marby Rd

Darnell

1st St

14th St

15th St

TennesseeKentucky

Tennessee

Tennessee

Kentucky

KentuckyDesert

Storm Ave

Desert Storm Ave

A Shau Valley Rd

A Shau Valley

Rd

Market Garden

Rd

Market Garden Rd

Headquarters Loop

Seminole

11th Airborne Division Rd

101st Airborne Division Rd

Indiana

Indiana

Pennsylvania

Reed

Gorgas

Indiana

Morgan

Morgan

Polk

School

Forrest

Alaska

Bastogne Ave

Bastogn

e Ave

Mississippsi

South Carolina

to I-24 & Hopkinsville to Clarksville

Michigan

Texas

Campbell Army Airfield

Sabre Army Airfield

1

2 9

6

4

3

7

534

32

31

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2629

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2524

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1533

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Gate 1

Gate 10

Gate 2Gate 3

Gate 4Gate 5

Gate 7

Gate 6

For t Campbell, Kentucky

8

To quote from Shakespeare’s play, As You Like It, “All the world’s astage and all the men and women merely players.”

If indeed all the men and women are players, then why haven’t youbeen on stage? Did you perform in plays in high school? Have you donea community theatre production recently? If not, why not?

Most people, when asked to be in a play, usually reply, “Oh, I couldnever remember all those lines.” or “I’d be too embarrassed.”

You’d be surprised how easy it is to remember lines when you rehearse repeatedly and your actions on stage trigger a sense memorythat helps you stay in character. You also need a good director, which I pride myself on being. That’s not bragging - it’s my motto. I feel that I can turn anyone into an actor and have proven it several times.

I know, I know; you’re probably saying, “It’s easy for you to say” butit’s true, I’ve been involved in community theatre for several years now.I started at the Soldier Show Center on Indiana Avenue here at FortCampbell, with a bit part in The Silver Whistle in 1970. By the time theCabaret Dinner Theater opened on post in 1980, I had performed inevery musical, comedy and drama that came along and was directingplays as a Theatre Specialist under the Morale Support Activities Division, which is now MWR.

Through those many years, I’ve seen a host of talented and not-so-talented people making their debut as actors. Some start out asyoungsters being pushed by their parents and then there are the adults

who have always wanted to be on stage and they audition for a part as away of checking another to-do item off their bucket list.

In my years of directing community theatre, I usually have at leastone actor who is “green” as we call them, the ones that have never beenon stage before, but have the desire to perform. It takes a little more effort on my part as a director to guide them in the right direction - andI love that element of my role! I get to coach and watch someone taste thejoy of presenting themselves in front of a live audience and see their eyeslight up with deep pride in themselves for having done something theydidn’t think they could.

In my most recent production I had four people who had either neverbeen on stage before or at least not since high school. I thought my workwas going to be cut out for me with teaching “newbies,” but to my amazement, they were all wonderful. These people were not youngsters,the youngest was 24 and the oldest was a woman who (I will not divulgeher age) was over 40.

The star of my last production was a lady in her 70’s who has beendoing theatre for a long time and still enjoys the process of performinglive for an audience. The rehearsals, the coming into your character, thescenery, the props, the costumes; they are all part of this thing calledtheatre. It gets in your blood and you thirst for that applause. Then therewas her husband, who is pushing 80, who came to rehearsal every nightand worked as my stage manager just because he loved the atmosphereand the camaraderie of theatre people drawn together in a quest to puton a show.

Which brings me to the point of this article: it’s never too late to taketo the stage and blossom as an entertainer. You know you want to - andall you need is the extra push to get out there and do it. If you’re thinking you’re too old to be in a play, all I can say is “poppycock”! You’renever too old!

Dale Wayrynen Community Recreation Center on post puts on productions periodically through the year and the Cumberland ArtsCentre in Clarksville puts on four to six productions a year. At either ofthese venues, the auditions are always open to everyone regardless ofgender, age and capabilities. Watch the newspaper or social media forthe next production schedule and come out for an audition!

Bright Lights

by Art Conn, Theatre Director

www.fortcampbellmwr.com

Dale Wayrynen CommunityRecreation Center6145 Desert Storm AvenueFort Campbell, KY 42223(270) 798-7446

Cumberland Arts Centre710 Main StreetClarksville, TN 37040(931) 552-1106

“Recreational Music-making encompasses enjoyable, accessibleand fulfilling group, music-based activities that unite people of allages regardless of their challenges, backgrounds, ethnicity, abilityor prior experience. From exercise, nurturing, social support, bonding and spirituality to intellectual stimulation, heightened understanding and an enhanced capacity to cope with life’s challenges, the benefits of Recreational Music-making extend farbeyond music. It ultimately affords unparalleled creative expressionthat unites our bodies, minds and spirits.”

~Karl T. Bruhn, “Father of Music Making and Wellness”/Former Music Industry Marketing Director and Music Advocate

Music has a powerful effect on people. It can boost your mood,help you relax or simply provide pleasure and joy to your ears.There is no doubt that music is important to our society. Music canenrich a community in many ways. From educational to economicimpacts, music provides an outlet for the community to perform,listen and appreciate the arts.

Michael F. Ritter, an Army Retiree, brings his passion for musicto the Clarksville community. During his 31 years of Army service,Ritter traveled all over the world and performed with Army Bands.

He entered the Army as a trumpet player in 1974. Throughout hisArmy career, he was promoted to Commander/Bandmaster andserved in that position in various Army Bands. His resume includesassignments in diverse locations including Hawaii, Germany,South Korea and one year in Mosul, Iraq. He also performed at highprofile events such as a concert for First Lady Betty Ford, President Ronald Reagan’s Inaugural Parade, the 60th Anniversary of the Normandy Invasion, the 50th Anniversary of thePearl Harbor Bombing and with Miss America.

Ritter retired from the Army in 2006 after performing with the101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) Band. His Family – includinghis wife Patty and two sons Paul and Sam - decided to stay in theFort Campbell area since they liked the community. “We [my Family] love our house and we love the groups we belong to,” Ritter stated. After he retired, he decided to continue performingand teaching music to the community. “I’ve been a musician foryears and I was looking for a job where I could continue to do thesame MOS [military occupational specialty] I had in the Army,” he added.

Ritter’s passion for music plays a huge part in his academic career and involvement in the local community. In 2011, he becamea music professor at Austin Peay State University (APSU). As an adjunct professor, Ritter instructs a variety of classes in the Department of Music. Most notably, he teaches Music Appreciation,Music Theory, and APSU 1000 – an interdisciplinary course thatprovides college freshmen with the foundations for academic success. Ritter enjoys teaching since he is able to share his experiences and guide his students in their musical careers – whether it is in performance or music education.

Outside of teaching, Ritter is the President and Musical Director of Cumberland Winds, an organization which promotesand fosters excellence in professionalquality level wind and jazz ensemblesin the regional Tennessee CumberlandRiver area. Cumberland Winds playspublic concerts as well as provides musical educational venues, clinics,master classes for students and adultsand raises funds for academic scholarships. Ritter and a few musicians in town established Cumberland Winds in 2009 in order tohave a musical organization for thecommunity. “Nothing like that existedin Clarksville before,” Ritter stated.“There are many cities that have symphony orchestras and also havecommunity concert bands and bigbands. Even though there are a numberof great bands consisting of pop, jazz,

by Jessica Ryan

Bringing Music to the CommunityHometown Hero

9

2013 Operation Rising Star Judgeat the Zone on Fort Campbell

Photo courtesy of Greg Williamson - The Leaf Chronicle

10www.fortcampbellmwr.com

rock, and country in the area, local event coordinators had to contact bands from Nashville if you wanted a concert band or a big band.”

Cumberland Winds offers so many benefits for the local community. For musicians, they have a long-awaited outlet to perform music with other local musicians. The organization con-sists of groups including the Jazz Project, Dixieland Combo, JazzCombo, Woodwind Quintet and Brass Quintet. In addition, thereare solo instrumentalists who can perform at special events andmore intimate settings. Ritter notes there is a diverse mixture ofperformers – ranging from other Army band Retirees and musicteachers to individuals who have professional careers outside of music

For the audience, theyhear a talented group of localmusicians performing for the community. CumberlandWinds’ groups have appearedat high quality communityevents such as Jazz on theLawn, Rivers and Spires, Riverfest, Jammin’ in the Alleyand the 150th Anniversary ofthe 1863 Battle of Gettysburgat the Stewart County VisitorCenter. They also graced theAPSU Concert Hall and RoxyRegional Theatre stages aswell as played at local festivalsand many private and com-mercial events. Many audience

members are amazed to have musical groups of this caliber inClarksville. “We are providing a service in that sense to the community,” Ritter remarked. “It is rewarding because the audience just enjoys it [the performance] and you can see thesmiles on their faces.”

As Cumberland Winds continues to perform in the community,Ritter encourages people to get involved with the organization.Musicians, of all experience levels, can join the group. Accordingto Ritter, Cumberland Winds accepts musicians either by audition,personal interview, past musical experience or strong recommendations from other musicians. The Cumberland Windswebsite (www.cumberlandwinds.org) and Facebook page(www.facebook.com/pages/Cumberland-Winds) posts informationon upcoming performances. Ritter advises people to sign up fortheir mailing list so they can receive updates straight to their email address.

As this issue’s hometown hero, Ritter wants to tell other Retirees that there are opportunities after their military careers.He recommends Retirees follow their passions and interests sinceit could lead to another career. “Seek out what desires you haveand what interests you,” Ritter stated. “Do your best to have a second career after the Army.”

For more information about Cumberland Winds such as membership, bookings and upcoming events, visit their websiteat www.cumberlandwinds.org or call (931) 436-3465.

Upcoming PerformanceFree Concert at

Grace Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall2041 Madison St., Clarksville, TN

February 9, 2014, 4 p.m.

Photo courtesy of Bill Larson - Clarksvilleonline.com

There are so many places in town where youcan get a good meal – why would you want tocome on-post to eat? Because Chef Bob is back – that’s why! He’s currently working out ofSportsman’s Lodge but you’ll find his influencein every MWR restaurant on post.

Sportsman’s Lodge offers German-Americanand international cuisine as well as some great mouth-watering BBQ. The buffet always offersschnitzel, German potato salad and slaw as wellas other yummy entrees and sides and there’s afull salad bar and plenty of dessert options. Ifyou’d rather order from the menu, the selectionsrange from Ala Carte Jager Schnitzel to a 10 ounce Sirloin Steak, or maybe you’d like to try

a Schnitzel Salad. Don’t forget the Fried GreenBeans for an appetizer! You’ll find Sportsman’sLodge quietly nestled back in the woods overlooking Lake Taal. The buffet in addition tothe full menu is offered for both lunch and dinner. Sportsman’s also caters events withyour budget and taste in mind.

Sometimes you just want a change of pace forlunch. The Dawg Haus offers a variety of foodsincluding five different foot-long Dawgs. There’sthe Coney Dawg topped with cheese sauce, chili,and onions or for the more adventurous eater,there’s the Macho Dawg topped with cheesesauce, chili, cole slaw, onions, bell peppers, tomatoes and jalapenos. Other Dawgs includethe Cheese Dawg, the Carolina Dawg, and theChicago Dawg. The Dawg Haus also has nachos,polish sausage, hamburgers, BLTs, chickensandwiches, and salads. Make your Dawg acombo with fries or onion rings and a drink.

by CynDe Clack

K e e p Y o u r Spotlight on MWR

11

Sportsman’s Lodge6633 Sportsman’s Lane (outside Gate 10)(931) 431-4140

Lunch: Tuesday through Friday, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Dinner: Tuesday through Thursday from 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday from 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. with the buffet available until 8 p.m.Saturday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. with the buffet available until8 p.m.; and Sunday from 12 noon until 4 p.m.

The Dawg Haus7121 C Avenue (near Campbell Army Airfield)To order ahead call (270) 798-0766

Monday through Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Even though it’s called a snack bar, Hooper Bowling Center Snack Bar offers much morethan “snacks”! They serve breakfast, Mondaythrough Friday from 7 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. withbreakfast also being served on Saturdays duringleague season. The breakfast menu includesthree different omelets, pancakes (served withour without a breakfast meat choice), sandwiches, breakfast platters, and biscuits(plain, topped with gravy, or served with thebreakfast meat of your choice, and you can evenadd an egg). During lunch you can order one oftheir many sandwiches, including turkey, tuna,chicken, BLT, fish, BBQ (lunch only), and subs;they offer a daily lunch special Monday throughFriday and these range from white beans andcornbread on Monday and spaghetti on Tuesdayto a pork chop plate on Friday. Salads can be ordered as a garden salad, chef salad, chickentender salad, or taco salad, just to name a few.That’s not all! They also have combo baskets,

burgers and hot dogs, pizza and calzones, and“Kids Kombos”. While you’re there,play someBingo. Hooper offers Infinity Bingo duringBowling Center hours of operation. Each cardcosts $1 and you can buy as few or as many asyou like. They’ll loan you a dauber and give youthe day’s sheet with the pre-drawn numbers andthen you daub away. You could win up to $1,000,paid in cash!

Let Cole Park Southern Buffet take the hassle and mess out of cooking your favoritesouthern foods. Their all-you-can-eat buffet isavailable Monday through Friday from 11 a.m.to 1:30 p.m. The selections vary daily but alwaysinclude southern favorites such as fried chicken,catfish, collard greens, fried okra, meatloaf,macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes, fruitcobblers and more. Included in the price of thebuffet are the soup and salad bar and yourchoice of soft beverage. Their ala carte menu includes favorites such as burgers, sandwichesand salads.

K i t c h e n C l e a n

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Cole Park Southern Buffet1610 101st Airborne Division Road(270) 798-4610x119

All-you-can-eat buffetMonday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Hooper Bowling Center Snack Bar5380 Tennessee AvenueCall ahead ordering (270) 798-2887 or (931) 431-6347

BreakfastMonday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m.Lunch and dinnerSunday from 12 noon to 8 p.m.Monday through Thursday from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.Saturday from 12 noon to 11 p.m.

Perspective Management

Retirement. To some, it is a highly anticipatedevent that elicits visions of vacations, motor homes,taking a sledge hammer to the alarm clock and finallyindulging in all of those hobbies that you have piledup neatly in the garage. It is the best part of wakingup (especially with Folgers in your cup).To others, there is an anxiety that comes with the

reality that they are entering into a phase of theirlives filled with uncertainty and the grief that comeswith major life changes. A Retiree friend of mine told me a few months ago,

“I want to enjoy this aspect of my life with my wife.

I retired three months ago and am feeling ahuge sense of loss since I left my job. A bigpart of my persona was my job and makingmoney. I miss the job interaction and thepeople I used to work with. I feel differentnow and sad, when I should feel relaxed andat peace.”Complicating things are the ailments and

physical limitations that accompany us aswe get older: the creaks in the knees and theknots in the back are sometimes painful reminders that our days of youth are long-gone, which can make for a miserableretirement experience.For those who have served honorably in

our nation’s Armed Forces comes the realization that combat-related traumaticbrain injuries and Post-Traumatic StressDisorder (PTSD) could be additional challenges that might affect our retirementquality of life.Can it be easy to become disgruntled whensomeone is experiencing these things? Yes. Can someone dealing with the issues of

aging or dealing with major life change andmedical ailments feel frightened, sad, anxious and disconnected? Of course! Andwhile you may be preparing for, or are in active retirement and feeling powerless tothese ailments and limitations, there is onething that you do have control over—that isyour attitude!Consider the following: A foursome of

senior golfers hit the course with waning enthusiasm for the sport. “These hills aregetting steeper as the years go by,” one complained. “These fairways seem to begetting longer too,” wheezed a second.“And somehow, the sand traps seem to be biggerthan I remember ‘me too,” said the third.

Hearing just about enough from his buddies, the oldest, and the wisest of the foursome, at 87, pipedup, “Oh my friends, just be thankful we're still on thisside of the grass!” In other words, if you woke up this morning and

you aren’t reading your name in the obituary columnof the paper, than you have a choice about what’s happening to you in your retirement—you can chooseto be bitter or you can choose to be better.I want to share with you five tips that I believe can

help you change your perspective about retirement

RETIRE FROM YOUR JOB,NOT FROM YOUR LIFE

by Ramon M. Maisonet

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and help you kick-start your way to enjoying whatshould be the best years of your life—that’s whythey’re called golden!

Tip #5: Money Matters

Being a “senior citizen” has benefits, and youshould take advantage of all of them. Outside of Veteran’s Day, many restaurants offer special menusand discounts designed to honor you. Also, you maywant to consider joining an association such as theAARP; you can get discounts on everything fromclothing to hotel rooms.These things should be part of the bigger plan

of making sure that the budget you had in pre-retirement has been modified to fit your lifestylepost-retirement. Adjusting your budget is one way tostretch your retirement income.

Tip #4: Retirement Community

Consider that like-minded people with like-mindedlifestyles make for like-minded activities as well asthe enjoyment of new friends and exciting new adventures. You can find this in a retirement community (also called an active-adult community).These communities can offer a range of amenitiessuch as nature trails, golf courses, swimming poolsand some even have on-site medical facilities.

Tip #3: Keep Moving

Retirement doesn’t mean that you’re dead; itmeans that (barring physical incapacitation) you stillhave the opportunity to take on a part time job in alow-stress environment (i.e.-Walmart greeter) thatcan help you feel like you are still connected. Take some time out of your day to engage in somelow joint-impacting physical fitness activities such as walking and bicycling; if you are married,these things can be wonderful marriage-building opportunities.

Tip #2: Keep People Guessing!

An elderly gentleman who had had serious hearing problems for a number of years went to thedoctor to be fitted for a hearing aid that would returnhis hearing to 100%. The elderly gentleman went back for further tests

a month later and the doctor said, “Your hearing isperfect. Your Family must be really pleased that youcan hear again.”To which the gentleman replied, “Oh, I haven’t told

my Family yet. I just sit around and listen to the conversations. I’ve changed my will three times!”The moral here: laugh often.

Tip #1: Travel

Why in the world have you worked this hard, forthis many years only to sit on your porch for days onend watching how well squirrels can tree-hop? I mean, it’s ok to do that on Tuesday mornings, butwith time and money (and a limit as to how often thegrandchildren can visit), you ought to travel!Don’t feel like driving? Many travel agencies

offer structured trips that offer you travel, food, accommodations and/or entertainment for a discounted price. Don’t have the patience for planes, trains or

automobiles? Rent an RV and take to the countryside. What am I saying? It

really would be not onlyan injustice to you, but awaste of the best years ofyour life to choose to sitaround and wallow inyour retirement. GeorgeBurns once said, “Retire-ment at sixty-five isridiculous. When I wassixty-five I still had pimples.” In other words,your spirit is alwaysyouthful.Don’t just allow

retirement to happen toyou, plan for it and prepare a transition plan that canhelp you ease into your new lifestyle. If you are already retired, one way you can help yourself is toadd some structure to your daily routine, adapt somenew habits. Need help planning your new life? Askyourself these questions to help get you started:

• What is my passion?• What is on my “bucket list?”• What goals have I not accomplished in life?• Should I consider being a mentor to someone?• Is there a local shelter that could use my skill-set somewhere?

• Can I become a sponsor to someone in a recovery group of some kind?

• Could my local church benefit from my volunteering?

• Are there relationships in my life that I need to mend?

• Does my marriage need a spark?

Remember, whether you retire because you chooseto or because you are being “Volun-told” (in otherwords, you “have to”), your retirement years can be happy; your retirement years can be enjoyable – despite your current challenges. Your best days are ahead of you! What are you

waiting for? Let’s get moving!

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Style Your Life MINIMIZE YOUR HOUSETO MAXIMIZE YOUR LIFE

by Val Throckmorton

We live in a time of abundance. Most of us are blessed be-yond what will fit in our home. Our houses and closets are atmaximum capacity. To maximize your life, let’s free up somespace. There are many people who could use our EXTRAS.When you are fortunate with abundance you have the opportunity to help others in need.

5 easy steps to minimize your house and maximize your life.

1. Have a clear goal and time frame.Example: A clutter free kitchen by Friday or a beautifulrelaxing guest room by Thanksgiving.Write down your goal and keep it visible.

2. Be prepared.Gather tools, garbage bags and boxes. Have a duster nearby because you always find dust bunnies when de-cluttering. Resources: ASYMCA Backdoor Boutique5660 Screaming Eagle Blvd. The Boutique accepts donations Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Donations are taxdeductible.

3. 30 a day!If time frames intimidate you… use a physical goal like 30 items per room, per day. Locate 10 items to donate, 10 to

throw away, and 10 to put away in their proper place. This tends to work well when children and Spouses are involved in de-cluttering.

4. Cherished items.Items that hold special emotional value need to be enjoyed. If your wedding china is in a box in the attic, no one can appreciate it. Use it. Enjoy it! Find special occasions and create new memories. If something breaks…cherish the memory. Take photos of cherished items. A picture is worth a thousand words and can jog your memory all the same.

5. Staying clutter free.Use the one-in one-out rule. When a new item is purchased, a similar item must be removed or donated. You may be surprised how much money you can save by knowing you have to discard another item when you get home.

Special note: This is a good time to make note of valuablesin your will. Take pictures of the items and where possiblewrite the name of who is to receive it. You may consider givingthose items to your loved ones now, allowing maximum appreciation and shared memories.

When I met my husband nearly ten years ago, I had absolutelyno idea what I was getting into. In 2004, I was sitting ona bar stool at a friend’s welcome home party, when in walked a tall, handsome man. When he approached me, I quickly shunned him away. Ashe walked off, a friend leaned over and said.“You don’t have to be so rude, he is a CSM”.People who know me well, know that for ten years I was in the automotive industry, and CSM to me meant Customer Service Manager. Withoutquestion, I turned to my friend and uttered these words that would intime haunt me, “Why do I care if he isa Customer Service Manager?” I was quickly schooled on what aCommand Sergeant Major was andwhy it was so very important. Nottruly understanding or even caringat this point, I approached the manand apologized.

Days turned to weeks, and weeksto years. This handsome stranger,CSM Chris Fields, soon became my verybest friend, and eventually my husbandand father to my then five year old sonGavin. A ready-made Family, seems simpleright? In 2006, I gave birth to a bouncingbaby boy we named Gabriel. Most men Chris’age had grown children, even grandchildren.No way, no how - we like doing things the hardway. Not only did I have Gabriel while Chris was deployed, Gabriel was a scheduled C-section. I’ve always

said, if you are going to make life a challenge, do it the right way. Chrisdid not meet his first born son untilGabriel was 5 months old, andthat was only for 12 days of mid-tour leave.

Later in 2006, I packedup our two boys, Gavin, age 7and Gabriel. 8 months, andheaded for Fort Campbell forthe return of our hero. Myentire life was about tochange and I had NO idea.I bought a house with aPower of Attorney, nowTHAT was quite fun! Thenwe counted the days untilChris returned. In Novemberof 2006, our wait was over.Chris had returned home andour life could begin. We were one

big happy Family of four. Life could not get any better. Then in2007, only three months after our son Gabriel had turned

a year old, God gave us a lesson in life; her name isEmily Grace. Again, off to war Chris went, as I prepared to have our daughter via scheduledC-section. Once again I was on my own andpregnant. At times, it felt like that was thebest way to get through a deployment. It definitely made the time fly by a lotfaster. When our daughter, Emily Grace,was five months old, she, like her bigbrother Gabriel, met her Daddy for thefirst time, during mid-tour leave.

In November 2008, Chris camehome from Iraq and we began to prepare for our future after the Army.What we didn’t know was that everything we loved was about to betested to the limits. For over a year,Chris trained his battalion for a deployment, a deployment that will sitheavy on many hearts until their lastbreath, May 5, 2010, Afghanistan XI.That deployment was more difficultthan the other two combined. We lost 18 Soldiers during that deployment; 18 Families changed forever; 18 faces thatI think of everyday; 18 heroes.

When I was asked to write this article, I was asked to write about how our lives have

changed after retirement, considering that wehave young children. I can tell you that in my

experience as an Army Spouse, in these short few yearsthat I was privileged enough to be the wife of the “Customer Service Manager” - I wouldnot trade one second of it. Our childrenhave an understanding of sacrifice and courage. Many Soldiers my husband’s age have grown children,even grandchildren; we have #1, #2and #3, because Chris says in hisold age it is just easier to callthem by numbers so he doesn’thave to remember their names!We cherish every second of whatwe have been given, we under-stand that every day is a day notpromised. There is no doubt that there are challenges to retirement, however, Gavin,Gabriel and Emily Grace, aka #1,#2 and #3, are definitely whatmakes, in my husband’s words “30years of Service, rewarding”.

by Debbie Fields

TransitionsThe Winds of Change

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In the Know

SAVE THE DATEWeek of the Eagles 2014

Week of the Eagles 2014 is scheduled for May 16 to 22, 2014. Mark your calendars! We’ll have updates in future issues of MWR Life for Retirees and we’ll be posting information on our website at www.fortcampbellmwr.com and on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/fortcampbellmwr.

If you plan to attend and need to make travel arrangements, let Leisure Travel Services help you with your travel needs.They can find you the best deals and assist with all of your travel details. Give them a call at (270) 798-7436. For your dining pleasure while you are here, see our article on page 9 and read about our on-post MWR restaurants.

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