Beruflich Dokumente
Kultur Dokumente
Families gather behind leaders from Installation Management Command-Korea and U.S. Army Garrison-Yongsan to watch them sign the Army Family Covenant Dec. 13 at Yongsan Garrison. (From
left to right) Brig. Gen. Al Aycock, IMCOM-Korea Commanding General; Command Sgt. Maj. Kevin Witt, IMCOM-Korea command sergeant major; Col. Dave Hall, USAG-Yongsan commander;
and 1st Sgt. Darryl Wright, acting USAG-Yongsan command sergeant major. — U.S. Army Photo By Edward Johnson
Submitting to
Word on the street: “How do you plan to celebrate New Year’s in Korea?”
The Morning Calm Weekly
Send Letters to the Editor, guest commen-
taries, story submissions and other items:
MorningCalmWeekly@korea.army.mil. “I will go to the “New Year’s is my “I’ll go down town
beautiful coast of anniversary so with my wife, we’ll
For all submitted items include a point of con- Jeon-dong-jin with my husband and have dinner at nice
tact name and telephone number. All items are my old friends and children are going to restaurant and we
subject to editing for content and to insure they watch the first new go see the fireworks will go to the club
conform with DoD guidelines. year sunrise.” show at Seoul Art to enjoy celebrating
Center.” New Year’s.”
IMCOM-K Public Affairs — Pfc. Lee, Jae-hee
and the Morning Calm Weekly staff are located —Tarita Harris — Steven LaMontagne
in Bldg. 1416, Yongsan Garrison Main Post.
For information, call 724-3365.
DECEMBER 21, 2007 NEWS NEWS • PAGE 3
www.imcom.korea.army.mil
MP Blotter
The following entries were excerpted
from the military police blotters. These
entries may be incomplete and do not
imply guilt or innocence.
Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers members wrap presents donated by Marines and Soldiers from the BOSS program, including private individuals who wished to give gifts to the children
of USAG-RC listed in the Angel Tree Gift Program in the ACS building on USAG-Casey Dec. 14.—U.S. Army Photo By Jim Cuningham.
AER Scharships
Army Emergency Relief offers free money
for education. The 2008-09 Army Emer-
gency Relief Scholarship Program scholar-
ships are now available on the AER web-
site: www.aerhq.org. For more information
call: 730-3142.
Time to celebrate!
Orphanage visits Red Cloud for Christmas party
by Spc. Alun Thomas like this in the United States, so this is a
USAG-RC Public Affairs good program.”
Soldiers bought a gift for the child
USAG RED CLOUD — The festive they were responsible for, with the United
season was in full swing as Headquarters, Services Organization also donating presents
Headquarters Company welcomed the for the Orphans. Also contributing to the
Kwang Myung Orphanage Dec. 16 at event was the Association of the United
the Community Activity Center, for the States Army, Mitchells Restaurant, and
orphanage’s annual Christmas visit. the Korean Augmentation to the United
Children of all ages participated in the States Army Snack Bar as part of the Good
festivities, with Soldiers from HHC paired Neighbor Program.
with a child from the orphanage and Soldiers from HHC sang a selection of
hosted them for the evening’s events, which Christmas songs for the orphans, singing
included games, food, a visit from Santa to ‘Santa Claus Is Coming to Town’, in both
hand out presents, and a candle lighting English and Korean, followed by a Korean
ceremony to end the visit. rendition of ‘Feliz Navidad’, sung by the
Capt. Dennis Graves, HHC commander, KATUSA’s.
USAG-RC, said the yearly event is meant to Soo Joung Kim, vice president of the Children of the Kwang Myung Orphanage perform a dance to start the festivities in the USAG-
focus on the children and is something the Kwang Myung Orphanage, said most of the RC Community Activity Center Dec. 16 during their annual Christmas party given by members
Soldiers look forward to all year. orphans come from homes where the parents of Headquarters,Headquarters Company. — U.S. Army Photo By Spc. Alun Thomas.
“We hold this event for the orphans in have either died or divorced and given up
summer and winter, and this day means a their children. presented Kim with an HHC T-shirt in these kinds of visits.”
lot more to them than it does to us,” Graves “These children will live at the orphanage recognition of his work with the orphans. Graves thanked HHC for their help, naming
said. until they are 18 years of age,” Kim said Sgt 1st Class. Michael Turrieta said the Staff Sgt. Bom Ho Yi and Sgt. Kenneth Reynolds
Graves said the goal of the event is to “Until then they will not be adopted by Christmas visit is significant, because it helps for their efforts in organizing the party.
show the Army cares about children placed another family.” the orphans feel the spirit of the season as One day out of a Soldier’s year to take part
in orphanages. Kim said the children are able to express Americans do. in helping the orphans isn’t too much to ask,
“We want to put a smile on the orphan’s themselves freely at the Christmas party, “This helps unify the Americans and Graves said.
faces and give them some gifts from both and have a chance to see another way of life Koreans as one during the holiday season,” “There was a lot of camaraderie tonight
American and Korean soldiers,” Graves through the U.S. Army. Turrieta said. “The Army is contributing to between the Soldiers and the orphans,” Turrieta
said. “You don’t hear much about things Following the gift presentation, Graves the public and all local nationals by hosting said. “I’m proud of all of them.”
Leaders sign
covenant with
Yongsan Families
by Kenneth Fidler registration fees for child care, extended hours
USAG-Yongsan Public Affairs for respite care and extended-duty child care,
and expanded programs for teens and after-
YONGSAN GARRISON – Army leaders school care, including youth sports.
here signed the Army Family Covenant “But it’s not just at Yongsan,” he said.
Signing the USAG-Yongsan Army Family Covenant Dec. 13 are (from left to right): Brig. Gen. Al Aycock, Dec. 13, pledging “It’s across the Army.
IMCOM-Korea Commanding General; Command Sgt. Maj. Kevin Witt, IMCOM-Korea command sergeant their support to “We take this covenant Wherever you go,
major; Col. Dave Hall, USAG-Yongsan commander; and 1st Sgt. Darryl Wright, acting USAG-Yongsan develop and improve this promise, this
command sergeant major. — U.S. Army Photo By Sgt. Kim Sang-wook family programs at seriously ... hold us to it.” commitment, will
U.S. Army Garrison- follow you.”
Yongsan. Col. Dave Hall One Army
“The Army USAG-Yongsan commander spouse attending the
Family Covenant is ceremony said she
our commitment to was pleased to see the
deliver a quality of life commensurate to our Army place so much emphasis on family
Soldiers’ service,” said Col. Dave Hall, U.S. readiness.
Army Garrison-Yongsan commander, to the “It’s important for the Army to come out
Families attending the signing ceremony. and officially acknowledge our contributions,”
“Our promise is that we will do our said Margaret Rice, a mother of two young
utmost to provide the best quality of life boys. “It’s important to all families. We’ve all
that we can for our families who support our acknowledged for a long time through family
Soldiers who give so much to our Nation,” readiness groups and family support groups
he said. “I’m proud to say ... we will keep our that Soldiers can’t concentrate when their
promise. We’re here for you.” downrange if they are worried about what’s
With Families looking on, Hall signed happening at home.”
the covenant with Brig. Gen. Al Aycock, Since the Army announced the covenant,
Commanding General of Installation it also committed $1.4 billion to family
Management Command-Korea; Command programs in fiscal 2008.
Sgt. Maj. Kevin Witt, IMCOM-Korea “We’re really excited about what will
command sergeant major; and 1st Sgt. Darryl happen,” Hall said, adding that he expects
Wright, acting USAG-Yongsan command USAG-Yongsan to enjoy some of the funding
sergeant major. for its family programs.
More than 75 covenant signings have During the ceremony, Hall cited several
taken place throughout the Army since improvements the Army has made to family
Oct. 9 when Gen. George Casey, the Army programs over the past few years:
Chief of Staff, announced the initiative at Privatized and improved almost 80,000
the Association of the United States Army homes on 36 installations
annual meeting. Opened 40 childcare centers, with 22
“We’re committed to providing a strong more in progress.
supportive environment where families Spent $50 million to hire new health
thrive,” Casey said during his announcement. care providers
“We recognize what it takes to be an Army Working closely with lawmakers to
Family, and that our Soldiers draw great help Army spouses gain priority for civil
strength from our Families. We have not, service jobs.
until this point, treated Families as the “The readiness of our all-volunteer force
readiness issue that they are.” depends on the health of the Families,” Hall
During the ceremony, Hall cited recent said. “We take this covenant seriously …
improvements to family programs at the hold us to it.”
USAG-Yongsan, such as elimination of initial
News & Notes Army Substance Abuse Program: ‘We can help’
Volunteer Recognition
The Army Volunteer Corps is now Education key to preventing alcohol abuse, power to change
accepting nominations for Volunteer of Editor’s note: This is the last part of a four- a helping agency. Alcohol abuse affects content is lower than the .08 percent limit in
the Quarter for the fourth quarter period
part series focusing on the dangers of alcohol use readiness, which impacts unit capability. Even the United States. He registered just a hair
of October-December. Any organization
can nominate a volunteer. The deadline
and abuse. more importantly, alcohol abuse can have a over the .05 limit.
is Dec. 21. Volunteer nominees will be devastating affect on individuals and families. “I only had a couple drinks,” he said. “I was
honored at a ceremony 1-3 p.m. Jan. 4 at by Kenneth Fidler We can help.” there a good two or three hours, but I made
Army Community Service in Bldg. 4106. USAG-Yongsan Public Affairs The class is part education, part self- sure I spaced out my drinks. It was getting
For information and nomination forms, reflection. The education comes in the form late, but I waited. I told myself I know I’m not
call 738-7510. YONGSAN GARRISON — Hector of briefings and discussions. Students learn drunk and I don’t feel it. But I got pulled over
Samarripa’s classroom is not exactly the most alcohol is the most abused drug in America, by KNP. ” Now, he’s walking for a year.
Seoul Secrets comfortable place to be on Yongsan Garrison. Samarripa says, and people who drink Back in Samarripa’s classroom, students
Army Community Service will present a
But for anyone who wants serious help curbing abusively are more prone to divorce and learn how alcohol is a depressant and slows
new program designed for newly arrived
personnel, “Seoul Secrets,” scheduled
an alcohol problem, it’s one of the best seats suicide than the rest of the population. down brain functions.
for 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Jan. 16. Participants in the house. Self-reflection gets students to sit back and “You can’t make logical decisions like that,”
will learn about the various transportation Samarripa runs the Army Substance Abuse look at their life situation, determine goals, he says. “Drink more and then you get feelings
choices in Seoul such as the subway sys- Program for U.S. Army Garrison-Yongsan. and how to meet them. They watch short of anxiety, depression, and even anger.”
tem, local and express buses, and more. His program provides prevention education video vignettes on how alcohol abuse affects That’s when students are introduced to
For information, call 738-7505. and implements alcohol and other drug risk individuals and families and discuss the key another helping agency, the Family Advocacy
reduction strategies. He and his staff present messages to take away. Program. In the classroom, family advocacy
USO Highlights a two-day education and prevention program In that classroom, you’ll learn how blood experts teach anger and stress management
Tour highlights: called the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention alcohol content is measured in grams of techniques.
Dec. 29: Jump Dinner & Show Training Program, or ADAPT. alcohol per 100ml of blood, and why it’s “Alcohol can fuel anger,” says Yvetta
Dec. 30: One Day Ski Tour
If you’re sitting in his classroom, you’re only different for everyone. How the human body Murphy, the Family Advocacy Program
Dec. 31: Han River Dinner Cruise
there for one of three reasons: digests alcohol depends on body weight, body manager at Army Community Services,
For more info, call 724-7003 DSN.
USO Santa visits the Yongsan Main
Your boss or someone else who cares fat, metabolism, drinking speed, among other during her discussion with the class. “We
Exchange 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Dec. 22. For about you told you to go for your own good factors. make a decision on how to deal with a stressful
information, call 724-7781. (command referral). “No two people process alcohol the same situation, and if the decision is to get angry
You can pick up the USO monthly You decided you’ve had enough way,” Samarripa says to his class. “Some people about it, anger can create hostility. If you’re
calendars at the Main Exchange, Com- problems stemming from alcohol abuse and will say they can tolerate alcohol better than under the influence, then that opens up other
missary, Dragon Hill Lodge, and Town decided to go on your own (self referral). others. Meaning, someone will say, ‘It takes a problems.”
House. The monthly calendar is posted You were involved in an alcohol-related lot more to get me drunk.’ Regardless of how She said everyone has the power to take
on the USO Web site at www.uso.org/ko- incident, and you really didn’t have a choice you ‘feel,’ the science of the matter is pretty the right path by changing your thoughts.
rea. For more information, call the USO (referred by authorities). black and white: .05 is .05, doesn’t matter “Managing stress and anger is about controlling
ITT Office at 724-7003 DSN. Regardless of why you’re there – how you ‘feel.’” your reaction,” Murphy explained. “If you’re
Servicemember or Civilian – you’ll leave Case in point: A couple of weeks ago, under the influence of alcohol, that means
Dream Theater, WWE Raw Tickets
knowing a lot more about how alcohol affects Korean National Police stopped a Yongsan you’re not making rational choices.”
The USO has tickets on sale for the mu-
sic group Dream Theater. The concert is
you, psychologically and physiologically. It’s Servicemember for driving under the influence. And making the right choice is what it
6:30 p.m. Jan. 12 at Melon AX-Hall. The designed to make sure you make smarter To his credit, he followed all the precautions: comes down to.
cost for standing tickets is 80,000 Won. choices. had a few beers, spaced them out, and waited Samarripa says he doesn’t tell people not to
Tickets are also on sale for the WWE “ASAP can help people beat their alcohol long enough until he thought he was okay to drink. “But if they do, then they need to do so
Raw Royal Rumble Tour 7 p.m. Feb. 10 at abuse problem,” Samarripa says. “We’re drive. But Korea’s .05 percent blood-alcohol responsibly,” he said.
Jamsil Gymnasium. For information, call
724-7003.
g
Readiness/Safety Center. Military dress is
dress mess or dress blues with bow tie. Ci-
Bah! Humbug!
Volunteer thespians present
6 showings of holiday classic
by Kenneth Fidler had as a young apprentice to Fezziwig.
USAG-Yongsan Public Affairs Scrooge – played by Joseph Rehak with
solid emotion and a fantastic grumpy face
YONGSAN GARRISON — The well- – experienced joy, love, shame, and fear.
known story launched the signature “Bah! The story moves with a dark undertone.
Humbug!” of a mean miser who finally comes The Ghost of Christmas Present shows
to understand the spirit of Christmas. Scrooge how his torment of Bob Cratchit
And Yongsan’s music theatre branch – the underpaid, abused clerk in Scrooge’s
brought its own version to the Moyer Theatre business – affects his family as they try to
last week. scrape together a meager holiday dinner.
This rendition played off the talents (Top) The Ghost of
Scrooge sees the impending death of Tiny Christmas Future shows
of a group of nearly 30 adult and young Tim with the Ghost of Christmas Future.
Scrooge the Cratchit
volunteer thespians – military, civilian and The scene ends with Scrooge scraping at his family mourning the loss
family members – who put in countless own tombstone. of Tiny Tim.
hours and almost The future gets
daily rehearsals since The ghosts ... show Scrooge the the best of Scrooge (Left) Jacob Marley,
Thanksgiving to bring hopeful man he once was, and warms his heart, played by Kenneth Duck-
six performances over worth, visits Scrooge to
the suffering of others, and a ultimately rewarding
forewarn him of the three
four days.
The story unfolds glimpse into the future for himself Cratchit and his ghosts’ visits. — U.S
family with a salary
in typical fashion. It’s and those around him – unless he increase and a proper Army Photos By Ken-
neth Fidler
Christmas Eve, and changes his ways. Christmas dinner.
Ebenezer Scrooge – a A simple stage
miser, a mean, old man – has no hope and no design and effects complemented the scenes,
care for anything except money. He scoffs at including the wisps of smoke to create the
those asking for charity donations and pushes mist accompanying Marley during his visit
children away. after midnight.
Scrooge built a business with his best Many characters took to the stage, all made roles. Jackie Karch played three roles: Fred,
friend and partner, Jacob Marley, whose possible by the talent of the volunteers. Volunteers perform for volunteers
Scrooge’s nephew; husband to Belle, a woman
The all-volunteer cast and crew of “A
ghost appears in chains and visits Scrooge For volunteer Levi Sutton, who plays to whom Scrooge was once engaged; and the Christmas Carol” performed shows
on Christmas Eve seven years after he died Cratchit, this is his third play with the theatre Ghost of Christmas Future. Dec. 15-16 dedicated to community vol-
and forewarns him of three spirits to come branch. He’s an Army major who works at “This is the first time I’ve done this, and unteers. The Garrison provided free ad-
later that night. mission for volunteers. Col. Dave Hall,
8th U.S. Army. it has been the best time I’ve had since I’ve
USAG-Yongsan commander, opened
The ghosts of Christmas past, present and “I really enjoy it,” said Sutton, whose wife, been in Korea,” said Karch, an Army staff the shows thanking the volunteers. “We
future show Scrooge the hopeful man he once Leandra, played Belle, a young woman to sergeant who works at the 142nd Military could not do our mission without volun-
was, the suffering of others, and a glimpse whom Scrooge was once engaged. “The best Police Company at Camp Kim. teers,” he said. After the show, he toast-
into the future for himself and those around part is getting to work with the people. No ed the cast and crew of the play and the
“It’s a real pleasure to do this, especially
volunteers in attendance. USAG-Yong-
him – unless he changes his ways. one is there because they have to be; they are when the audience is getting into it and san has more than 2,500 registered
The cast threw a lively Fezziwig Christmas there because they want to be. That makes a laughing and having a good time,” he said. volunteers who donatated more than
party at which Scrooge is reminded by the difference.” “That really feeds us as performers; we can 45,000 volunteer hours in 2007.
Ghost of Christmas Past what he could have Some performers took on multiple feel that and it makes a difference.”
PAID ADVERTISING
Happy Holidays!
J
ust eight years ago, Beth Anne and agree that our deep friendships developed
I spent our first Christmas serving as a result of spending so much quality
overseas. We were stationed in Izmir, time together. This year, we may not be
T Turkey – a beautiful place to be, but not able to celebrate with all the members of
a traditional Christmas setting. Being in our family, but we can create meaningful
a Muslim country, evidence of Christmas memories with those around us.
was hard to find – we did not have a gated In many ways, the Yongsan community
housing community like Yongsan. reminds us of Izmir … every trip to the PX
In Turkey, decorations were limited to is a social outing, no new outfit or hairstyle
the isolated military facilities and homes goes unnoticed, and a bit of information
scattered throughout the city. Even so, our can circulate at the speed of light – never
real concern was not the lack of Christmas even needing to be published or posted. It
lights and tinsel, but the absence of our is small-town living with all of the benefits
extended family. It was our first time to and a few of the quirks. That sense of
celebrate the holiday season without them. community is what we love about living
We were certain it would be a depressing, here in Yongsan.
dismal event. What we discovered was We are glad for the opportunity to
nothing short of magical. celebrate this holiday season with you.
We quickly learned that our many good Please remember our Servicemembers
friends were facing the very same concerns. who are deployed this holiday season. They
What could have been a lonely, isolated and their families deserve our thoughts
couple of days soon became a series of and prayers.
social events. As we opened up our homes For those here on the home front, please
to one another, we found that our lives were stay safe, cherish your loved ones and
very full of love and friendship. We created embrace those who are here alone. Create
new holiday traditions that fit our unique the holiday traditions that will someday
time in Izmir. be the great memories of Christmas in
Over the years, we have had many Korea.
reunions with our friends from Turkey From our family and friends to yours,
– most recently with the Weigle family also a Merry Christmas and the Happiest of
stationed here in Yongsan. We all seem to Holiday Seasons!
PAID ADVERTISING
The Embers perform the musical skit version of “Frosty the Snowman” during the Christmas Concert with
The Embers Dec. 17 at Seoul American High School. The Embers provided holiday entertainment during
their week-long tour of military installations in Korea to entertain the U.S. Servicemembers and families for
the holidays. — U.S. Army Photo By Sgt. Jung Jae-hoon
DECEMBER 21, 2007 NEWS IMCOM-K • PAGE 13
http://imcom.korea.army.mil
7-8 p.m.
Christmas Eve Candlelight Service:
AREA I South Post Chapel Dec. 24, 7-8 p.m.
Protestant Worship Service: Christmas Eve Candlelight Service:
Thunder Inn Dining Facility Dec. 21, 11 a.m.-2 p.m K-16 Chapel Dec. 24, 7-8 p.m.
Christmas Mass: Christmas Day Community-Wide Service:
Warrior Chapel, CRC Dec. 25, 9 a.m.* Yong Nak Church Dec. 25, 3-4:30 p.m.
Christmas Mass: (AIM-Korea) – Busses depart South Post Chapel at 2 p.m.)
West Casey Chapel, Cp Casey Dec. 25, 11 a.m.* Combined Watchnight Service:
Hannam Village Chapel Dec. 31 8 p.m.-3 a.m.
*Both Masses will be conducted by Chaplain (Brig. Gen.) Donald Rutherford, deputy Watchnight Service:
Chief of Chaplains South Post Chapel Dec. 31 11 p.m.-midnight
AREA II AREA IV
Catholic Services Collective Protestant Christmas Eve Candle Light Service: Cp Walker
Fourth Sunday of Advent Mass: Soldier Memorial Chapel Dec. 2, 7 p.m.
all Masses at regular times & locations Catholic Christmas Eve Mass: Cp Walker
Christmas Eve Family Mass: Soldier Memorial Chapel Dec. 24, 5 p.m.
Memorial Chapel Dec. 24, 4-6 p.m. Christmas Day Catholic Mass: Cp Walker
Christmas Carols & Midnight Mass: Soldier Memorial Chapel Dec. 25, 10 a.m.
Memorial Chapel Dec. 24, 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m. Collective Protestant Christmas Eve Candle Light Service: Cp Carroll
Christmas Day Mass (One Mass ONLY): Chapel Dec.24, 7 p.m.
Memorial Chapel Dec. 25, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Christmas Day Catholic Mass: Cp Carroll
Mary Mother of God Mass: Chapel Dec. 25, 11:45 a.m.
Memorial Chapel Dec. 31, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
New Year’s Day Mass:
Memorial Chapel Jan. 1, 2008 9-10 a.m. AREA III
Episcopal Christmas Eve Mass:
Christmas Holy Eucharist: Freedom Chapel Dec. 24, 5 p.m.
Memorial Chapel Dec. 24, 7:30-8:30 p.m. Combined Protestant:
Jewish Freedom Chapel Dec. 24, 6:30 p.m.
Hanukkah Celebration: Christmas Day Mass:
South Post Chapel Dec. 9, 3:30-6 p.m. Freedom Chapel Dec. 25, 9 a.m.
Protestant New Years Eve Mass:
Children’s Pageant & Christmas Cantata: Freedom Chapel Dec. 31, 5 p.m.
South Post Chapel Dec. 23, 10-11 a.m. New Year’s Day Mass:
Christmas Eve Caroling/Fellowship: Freedom Chapel Jan. 1, 2008, 10 a.m.
IMCOM-K • PAGE 14
http://imcom.korea.army.mil NEWS THE MORNING CALM
December 21-27
W
s? What is the first ithin a few days we will observe through media coverage and publication
s the first gift of Christma
H
nd ere d wh at wa
ave you eve r wo ture we use symbols, what is referred to as “The Year in Review.” For those of you who are not
t you can rec all receiving? In Western cul
Christ ma s gif our Christmas spirit. familiar with this jargon, it merely represents the top stories from around
sta rs, bel ls, na tivities and lights to show
such as a tre e, ristmas spirit. I have the world during 2007. It is an anthology of the good, the bad and indifferent, the joys
mo re sim ple me thods to display their Ch
Other cultures ma y use others celebrate. In my and tragedies of our global planet during the past 365 days. Regardless of the worst day
ate Ch rist ma s is not necessarily the way
learned that how I cel ebr simplest form of human- or the most tragic of events, we somehow manage to survive! From the Great Depression
t the gif t of Christmas came in the
faith tradition , I bel iev e tha are born every day. Yes, of 1929, through Hiroshima and September 11th, humanity has revealed her resilience
t wh at is so sig nifi can t about this child? Children
ity, a child. Bu y other gift. time and again. This survival, I believe, is not the result of pliability and determination.
s not lik e an y chi ld an d this gift was not like an
but this child wa The reason our tenacity remains resolute resides in the presence of the almighty God.
about this, when you God is with us! It’s that simple.
mo me nt in the spirit of Christmas. Think
Pause with me for a ng to buy? What are
are you bu yin g for? What gift are you goi
go out to buy a gif t, wh o t? And finally, what During the festive holiday season everything is in full gear, you can see it all over post.
t in? Wh ere are you going to place this gif
you going to wr ap thi s gif are going to buy and We deck the halls, light the trees with mistletoes and the works. Department stores are
ng to be. On ly you can know what gift you
is the cost of thi s gif t goi ut the gift? I hope so. For running advertisements; radio and television do their part. It’s all around us and we love
ve you eve n given much thought abo
give this holida y sea son . Ha tment to Christ. My love it. We are so saturated with the season; we forget the reason for the season. God is the
offe r my fam ily is my faith and commi
me the gift tha t I hop e to them. Take a moment to reason for the season. Amazing how quickly we are derailed from its true purpose and
app ed in my words and actions for
and affection ha s bee n wr t will be a reflection of none are innocent. I find myself so absorbed in giving, that I often forget the holiday’s
ce of the gif t and understand that the gif
think about the im por tan love, faith, hope, peace true meaning.
the n is the first gift of Christmas? Is it
the giver of the gif t. Wh at , know that the gift that
? Th is Ch rist ma s sea son , whatever your tradition
or possibly joy Yet this is not simply a holiday reminder, it is a reminder and a reflection worth
es from you.
you are about to give com considering every day. Whether there’s snow on the ground or the smell of grilled steak
to buy and give is given on a hot 4th of July afternoon. The bottom line is the fact that God is with us, every
pra yer is tha t the gift that you are about
This holida y sea son , my in my faith tradition, day and every hour. God is with us when we least expect it. He is with us in Korea. He
wi ll nev er underestimate its worth. For
with such pas sio n tha t one you good news of great is with our comrades in arms serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. He resides within the
the se wo rds , “Do not be afraid. I bring
this gift for me is fou nd in Savior has been born to halls of Congress and he takes up residence in the human heart. So the next time you
for all the peo ple . To da y in the town of David a
joy that will be mas was God’s Son. reflect on the days of a passing year, always know without a shadow of doubt, based on
rd.” The first gift of Christ
you and he is Christ the Lo His word, that God is with us.
Clayton Gregory
– Chaplain (Maj.) Jimmie – Chaplain Eddie Kinley, Jr
HHS 1-38 FA
501 SBDE Chaplain
IMCOM-K • PAGE 16
http://imcom.korea.army.mil FEATURE THE MORNING CALM
Go skiing, snowboarding
with the USO in Korea
Signing� � � � � � from page 1 This new partnership consists of the “This is the holiday season and I can
Army doing more to support as well as think of no better gift for our fine Soldiers
better the quality of life for Soldiers and their and their Families than demonstrating that
Families. U.S. Army officials have agreed we care for them,” Dumoulin said.
to invest $1.4 billion in standardizing and “We respect them and we are going to
funding existing Family programs, services do our utmost to take care of them and give
and health care this fiscal year, Casey said. them the quality of life that they deserve,”
“This figure more than doubles the said Dumoulin.
amount spent in previous years for such Along with Casey and Dumoulin, Brig.
programs,” said Casey. Gen. Al Aycock, IMCOM-K commanding
“We will spend $64 million to hire 200 general, Command Sgt. Maj. Kevin N. Witt,
healthcare professionals across the globe,” IMCOM-K command sergeant major and
he said. Command Sgt. Maj. Jason K Kim, USAG
The Army Family Covenant was designed Humphreys command sergeant major,
with deployed Soldiers’ Family members signed the covenant reaffirming the Army’s
in mind. commitment to Soldiers and Families.
“One of the most important parts of our Before leaving Humphreys, Casey
force is our Family members,” Casey said. extended greetings toward Soldiers and their
“In the past it was as though the motto for Family Members.
Family members was “make the best of it.” “Happy holidays,” Casey said. “Thanks
“Not now,” Casey said. for what you do for our country and the
(Left to Right) Command Sgt. Maj. Kevin K. Witt, IMCOM-K command sergeant major, waits to
“We need this partnership to exist Republic of Korea.” “And thanks for the
receive the covenant from Brig. Gen. Al Aycock, IMCOM-K commanding general. Army Chief of
between the Army and Family Members sacrifices you make,” he said.
Staff Gen. George W. Casey Jr., passes the marker to a Family member after signing.
because their commitment and sacrifices,” Casey also said with USAG Humphreys
he said. “And this is the restatement of our transformation, the installation could be the
commitment to our Families.” model for the rest of the Army to follow in
With the signing coming in the middle regard to what the covenant represents.
of this year’s holiday season, the USAG The original Family Covenant signing
Humphreys Commander, Col. John E. ceremony was schedule for last month, but
Dumoulin Jr., agreed Army Soldiers and was postponed because the chief of staff
Family Members are the centerpiece of U.S. wanted to personally attend.
Army forces, and they must be taken care of Casey is the 36th chief of staff of the
in order that the Army maintain the state of United States Army.
readiness expected.
(Left to Right)Command Sgt. Maj. Jason K. Kim, USAG Humphreys command sergeant major
and Col. John E. Dumoulin Jr., USAG Humphreys commander, sign the covenant while Com-
mand Sgt. Maj. Kevin K. Witt, IMCOM-K command sergeant major, talks to Leslie Riddle.
Army Chief of Staff Gen. George W. Casey Jr., signs flags for United States Army Garrison
Humphreys American Elementary School children after the signing of the Family covenant.
Eighth U.S. Army Commander, Lt. Gen. David P. Valcourt, Command Sgt. Maj. Barry C.
USAG-H Christmas Safety Tips
Wheeler, USFK, UFC, CFC and Eighth U.S. Army command sergeant major, Howard M. Krawitz,
the Political Advisor to the Army Chief of Staff and Brig. Gen. Kurt T. Stein, USFK Advance Ele-
Tips: under sofa and chair cushions for
smoldering cigarettes.
ment commander, look on as the Army Family Covenant video plays at USAG-H gym.
Unplug light strings before
replacing a bulb. Provide lots of ash trays for smokers.
Please Send Us Stories and Photos Daniel, fourth grader, is hoping his grandma is sending him a Nintendo Wii for Christmas, and
To submit info for publishing in The Morn- he’s also looking forward to spending time with his dad in South Carolina. T.J. Masters, fourth
ing Calm Weekly, USAG Humphreys com- grader, also hopes for a Wii, so he’s trying hard to be really good and not talk back to his par-
mon pages, call 754-6132, 8847 or 8598. ents. He is also looking forward to doing fun things with his dad.
Or e-mail andre.butler@korea.army.mil. (Left) Graham Gist, kindergartener, can’t wait to open presents and, if it snows, to build a snow
fort and a snowman. Shelby Spillane, first grader, looks forward to giving presents to her family,
going to a Christmas party, and making Christmas crafts.
DECEMBER 21, 2007 AREA III USAG-H • PAGE 23
http://imcom.korea.army.mil
same opportunity to her students here.
“I really enjoyed my experiences in
choir and wanted to give the students at
Humphreys the same opportunities that I
had,” said Shoff.
To become a member of the honors
choir, students must pass a singing audition,
be cleared by their homeroom teacher
to participate, and then are granted
membership.
Students must be disciplined by
attending practices, reviewing pieces on their
own and ensuring they attend scheduled
performances.
“I hope that the students have fun, grow
in their musical abilities, make great friends,
and learn to be better leaders in their school,
home, and community,” said Shoff.
“I love watching the students grow as
musicians. They continuously amaze me
with their musicality,” said Shoff
Over this past week alone, the
choir has performed for the United Club
during their annual cookie drive, unit
Christmas parties, and caroled through the
(above and below) Twenty-Seven members of the Humphreys American Elementary School Honor Choir perform “A December to Remember” downtown area of Humphreys Garrison.
as part of the HAES Winter Concert here, Dec 17. HAES students performed a total of 12 songs during the hour long concert. A memorable moment for the choir was
— U.S. Army Photos Stacy A. Ouellette their appearance in a photo with the United
Have a joyous
HAPPY HOLIDAYS and safe holiday
from USAG DAEGU season!
USAG-D • PAGE 26
www.imcom.korea.army.mil AREA IV THE MORNING CALM
News & Notes Tips for using your credit card wisely
by Steven Lamontagne
Equipment Rental 1. Receipts: Save your receipts and
Morale, Welfare and Recreation rents out
Army Community Service “Many people think of a credit reconcile them with your monthly credit-
winter equipments. It features Santa suits, card as free money.” card statement. Report any discrepancies
skis, boots and poles, snowboards and USAG HENRY — Imagine walking
into a bank and asking for a loan to buy a Steven Lamontagne immediately.
boots, fishing equipment and dozens of
other recreational items. For information, pair of socks. Army Community Service 2. Regular Payments: Plan to
call MWR at DSN 764-4123. “Sure,” says your friendly neighborhood pay the balance in full each month. If you
banker. “Just sign here. By the way, your or even a “blue” card won’t get you more can’t do so now and then, don’t make any
Newborn Basics Hands-on Workshop annual percentage rate will be 20%, and prestige. additional purchases with the card until the
Army Community Service holds a Newborn there’s a stiff penalty for late payment.” Check the annual percentage rate, or balance is zero.
Basics Hands-on Workshop from 6–8 p.m.,
Jan. 23 at the Camp Henry’s ACS. It will
The idea of taking out a high-interest APR. This is the cost of the credit shown 3. Avoid Late Charges: Always
loan to buy routine items such as socks as a yearly rate. The creditor must disclose make the payment before the due date to
show you what to expect during the first six
weeks with your newborn and how to handle sounds silly, but credit-card holders who this figure to you. avoid late charges and interest. Think of the
it. Register in advance. For information, call don’t pay their bill in full each month do Remember that many banks offer a low additional charges as a tax on stupidity or
Tiana Marratta at DSN 768-8090. exactly that when buying household items introductory rate that climbs steeply in a few sloth--and avoid them.
or restaurant meals. months. Beware--and read the fine print. 4. Routine Purchases: Don’t use
New Year’s Celebration “If you don’t have the money to pay for Some creditors offer variable rates tied your credit card for routine trips to the
Walker Bowling Center conducts New an item now, you probably won’t have it to interest rates or other gauges of the
Year’s Celebration from 9 p.m. – 1 a.m.,
supermarket or drug store. Instead, use a
after the credit-card bill arrives. We need to economy. This isn’t a problem as long as debit card that will automatically withdraw
Dec. 31. There will be refreshments, party you’re paying attention. But who tracks
be wise about the use of credit. If you can’t money from your checking account. This
favors, champagne toast at midnight,
pay for an item in a reasonable amount of this stuff along with the clatter and chatter will help keep the credit-card balance low
raffles and more. Raffle tickets are given
out at the bowling center from Dec. 1 – 31. time, you shouldn’t be charging it.” of daily living? This can be an invitation to each month.
For information, call at DSN 768-4334. Many people think of a credit card as a beheading--yours.
The “periodic rate” is the charge applied
5. Over The Limit: If you exceed
free money. Think of a credit card as an
your credit limit, call the bank immediately
Special Services unsecured loan from the bank that allows to your outstanding balance to calculate the
Camp Walker’s Chapel holds three
and make arrangements to pay down the
you to buy goods and services now and pay monthly finance charge for each collection
special services. The Collective Protestant balance and get it below your limit. This
later. How can consumers develop resistance cycle. This can be a killer if you let the
Christmas Eve Candle Light Service is at 7 may mean you can avoid getting hit with
to seductive appeals to spend? unpaid balance build. The smart user of
p.m., Dec. 24. The Catholic Christmas Eve an additional fee for exceeding your credit
“It seems to be especially hard for some credit pays the bill in full each month, saving
Mass is at 5 p.m., Dec. 24. The Christmas limit.
people not to be an over-spender during the big bucks and driving the banks crazy.
Day Camp Walker Catholic Mass is at 10 6. Guard Your Information: Don’t
a.m., Dec. 25. For information, call Sgt. holidays because of an emotional need to Ask about transaction fees. Banks often
express love, appreciation and friendship,” charge a fee if you use the card to get a cash give your credit-card number to anyone
Midine Beauvais at DSN 764-5534.
said Steven Lamontagne, Financial Advisor of advance, make a late payment or exceed the over the phone who calls on the pretext of
Cable TV Price Increase Army Community Service. “By employing credit limit. “verifying” your personal information or
From Jan. 1 in 2008, MWR Cable TV better spending techniques, however, people Limit yourself to one major card with a “correcting” a problem with your account.
service will increase $3 for the premium can help eliminate overspending and keep credit limit you can handle. Some people It’s a scam and it’s a dead certainty that
package and $1 for non-residential basic from getting overcharged with plastic this flash a wallet full of credit cards as if it’s phony charges in your name will pile up
service. For more information on MWR proof that creditors love them. Hint: The almost immediately.
holiday season.”
Cable TV or to sign up for the premium
Here are some useful spending tips and bank wants your money--make them jump 7. Bad Credit History: If your
package, call at DSN 738-2288.
ideas for holiday shoppers: for it. payment history has been poor in the past,
Taegu Commissary Business Time Pay the balance in full each payment Keep monthly charges low. Some consider opening a secured credit account
Taegu Commissary will be open Dec. 24 cycle, and use the bank’s money interest free recommend no more than 30% to 50% of with a major bank.
and 31 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and closed for about a month. the credit limit. Typically, the amount you can charge
for observance of Christmas Day on Dec. Those who don’t pay the bill in full each Be sure to pay the amount due in full each month is backed by your deposits at
25 and New Years Day on Jan. 1 in 2008. month and make additional purchases each month. This saves you money and the bank. The credit limit is often small,
For information, call Taegu Commissary at soon find themselves clobbered by interest burnishes your credit report. A solid credit but regular payments will help you build
DSN 764-4950. report is the key to securing a mortgage or a good credit history and strengthen your
payments on a ballooning balance. This is
toxic to your financial health and can pound a car loan, often at a lower rate. application for an unsecured card in the
Emergency Placement Care Provider
The USAG Daegu community is in need of your credit rating. Always keep your credit-card account future.
EPC Providers, previously known as Foster A credit card offers great convenience. number and the phone number of the Equifax and the websites of major banks
Care families. Get more information on You don’t have to show a half-dozen creditor’s service line at home. If your card is offer solid tips on how to establish and use
becoming certified by contacting the Family pieces of ID (or so it seems), you don’t lost or stolen, contact the bank immediately credit wisely, including Bank of America-
Advocacy EPC Program. For information, have to carry large amounts of cash, you to cancel the account. Your liability is Community Bank and USA Federal Credit
call Tiana Marratta at DSN 768-8090. can consolidate payments, and you have limited by law to $50 and in most cases, you Union, Wells Fargo, JPMorgan Chase,
a record of purchases. A credit card is won’t be asked to pay a cent if you report Citigroup.
USA Girl Scouts Overseas Program the theft promptly. “If you get behind on your payments,
needed to complete some transactions--
If you are interested in registering your
try buying an airline ticket, renting a car A regular review of your credit report contact the creditor and make arrangement
daughter in the USA Girl Scouts Overseas
Program, in Daegu contact Ms. LaTondra or shipping an overnight package with is vital to maintaining a solid credit to pay the balance due as quickly as you
Anderson at 011-9857-6638 or e-mail at cash. rating and guarding against identity can.
Imanderson0515@yahoo.com, in Seoul Banks have done a terrific job marketing theft. Typically, a credit report contains Don’t let the account go to collection.
Mrs. Shelly Matautia at 011-9883-6239 these pieces of plastic as status symbols and personal identifying information, a credit You don’t need to close the account – you
or e-mail at matautia@kornet.com; and tickets to freedom. Don’t buy into the hype- summary, account history, inquiries, need to pay off the balance due.”
in Pyeongtaek and Osan Mrs. Caroline -think of credit as a commodity and shop collections and public records. The three For further information on credit
Schultz at 010-8694-4166 or e-mail at for the best deal. Don’t be bashful about major credit-reporting agencies, Equifax, management and reparing of credit,
pyeongtaekgirlscouts@gmail.com. TransUnion and Experian, collect similar contact your local finance department or
playing one bank off against the other to
get the best price. information to help businesses answer a the ACS Financial Advisor at 768-8127.
Belly Dancing Classes
Camp Walker Kelly Fitness Center and Before you sign up for a credit card, basic question: Is the credit applicant a You can also contact your local banking
Camp Carroll Fitness Center feature free check the terms and conditions that will good risk? facilities for information on obtaining a
belly dancing classes. At Camp Walker, it’s determine your overall cost. You should not Your credit score is based on your comprehensive credit report and credit
every Monday at 10 a.m. while at Camp have to pay an annual fee for the privilege payment history, outstanding debt, length rating.
Carroll, every Wednesday at 10 a.m. For of carrying a credit card, so here’s a hot tip: of time you’ve had credit, types of credit you Your credit rating is a document that
information, call the Camp Walker Fitness Don’t. If a bank wants to pick your pocket have and the number of inquiries. should be reviewed at a minimum of once
Center at DSN 764-4800/4225 and Camp before issuing a card, simply deal with Typically, the score is reported on a scale a year.
Carroll at DSN 765-8287/8118. of 300 to 900. The median score is about Your credit score is one of the determining
another bank.
Most creditors want your business and 725. factors for approval or disapproval of a major
won’t charge an annual fee for the card. Listed are seven basic points to remember purchase item.
Paying a hefty fee for a “gold” or “platinum” when managing your credit-card account.
DECEMBER 21, 2007 AREA IV USAG-D • PAGE 27
www.imcom.korea.army.mil
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USAG-D • PAGE 28
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