Welcome

MWR Info (By Peggy Nelson, MWR Manager)

A very special event was conducted by the Family Advocacy Program Manager, Valencia Barnes. She conducted the first ever Survivor Outreach Services support group for families who had lost loved ones in Iraq. She had a good turnout and was extremely touched by the families’ issues, concerns, and feelings. She was also quite grateful that COL Chevallier, Garrison Commander, was in attendance as many issues were about survivor benefits and Army specific questions.

The Oasis Pool has been front and center recently due a continuing water leak of 5000 gallons per day. The pool had just re-opened after receiving a nice face lift and had to close again to repair this leak. Finding the leak became the main issue as IAP Public Works staff worked diligently to find and repair the leak. Without success, Public Works contracted with a company who has the equipment to scan pipes to find leaks. This process was done, the leak was discovered and repairs are underway with plans for pool to open in time for the annual Sprint Triathlon on 6 June.

The Fitness Connection has a new manager, Randy Aradanas, who brings great experience with military event planning and sports/recreation experience. Randy has taken on the challenge to; once again, define Fitness Connection as a viable facility offering top notch programs and events. The Tour de Irwin was conducted on 11 April with a turnout of about 53 participants. The highlight of the race was we had the US Biking Champion and his team in the race. They were extremely impressed with the course and event support. They requested the race be longer in the future, 60-80 miles, and they promised to spread the word to their counterpart bikers. Also on 11 April, Oasis pool offered their annual Underwater Easter Egg Hunt. The kids and families had a great time with a good turnout for a comp weekend.

During April the Youth Programs offered special Spring Break Camps for Fort Irwin kids and all programs had a great turnout. The Middle School/Teen program is making great progress in expanding programs and offering more age appropriate events which has greatly increased participation. During Spring Break the Middle School/Teen youth had two trips – one to Santa Monica Pier and one to Knott's Berry Farm.

ACS Family Member Employment Program conducted a Job Fair on 15 April with approximately 750-800 people in attendance. Music and Theater produced a children’s musical called “Captain Louie” on 24 April with approximately 100 people enjoying the production. This play was entered in the Army Entertainment Festival on 22 May.