By GUIDON staff

The Maneuver Support Center of Excellence Homeland Defense Civil Support Office’s Incident Response Training Department was named the Homeland Security Information Net-work’s Best of HSIN 2019 Silver Award Winner for Incident Command and Operations during a ceremony at the Lt. Joseph Terry Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Responder Training Facility Feb. 13.

The Homeland Security Information Network is the Department of Home-land Security’s official system for trust-ed sharing of sensitive but unclassified information between federal, state, lo-cal, territorial, tribal, international and private sector partners.

According to David Henry, HSIN program mission advocate, the award is given in recognition of overall excel-lence in the use of the HSIN to promote collaboration and improve decision making in advancing the homeland se-curity mission.

“The program works with all of our partners … in emergency management, emergency services, law enforcement and homeland defense to improve the way we share information around the country,” Henry said.

Henry added that mission opera-tors use the HSIN to access homeland security data, send requests securely between agencies, manage operations, coordinate planned event safety and security, respond to incidents and share

the information they need to fulfill their missions and help keep their communi-ties safe.

“Every year communities … share their story on how you’re improv-ing information-sharing, delivering the homeland mission in the country,”

Henry said. “Thank you for your effort and the way you use our system — con-tinue that good work in training the CBRN mission (for) the country.”

James Rabenold, Homeland De-fense Civil Support Office Fort Leonard Wood director, accepted the award and

emphasized that it took a team effort to win.

“This award is for all of you and I’m grateful to accept (it) but I acknowl-edge it is you guys who have made this happen and I just want to say thank you.”

Michael Madigan, a master instruc-tor at the Incident Response Training Department, said the IRTD educates students on how to enter a potentially contaminated area, operate a variety of specialized military and civilian CBRN agent detectors and equipment in sup-port of detection and identification op-erations, conduct sample collection, process suspected hazardous materi-als/substances, conduct personal de-contamination operations and perform military support to civil authorities.

“In addition to this we also provide … training that focuses on … the skills and knowledge required to prepare for and respond to a weapons of mass destruction incident, as part of the state and federal emergency manage-ment response system,” Madigan said. “Hands-on training is used extensively to ensure Soldiers master the requisite skills.”

The HSIN has five categories for awards with two winners per category each year. HSIN communities are nom-inated by others or self-nominated.

“Other communities learn from the awardees on how to improve their use of HSIN,” Henry said. “These awards are often recognized as best practice for our community.”

FREE Published in the interest of the personnel at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri

Thursday, February 20, 2020Volume 20, Number 07

www.myguidon.com

■ FLW celebrates Black History Month with luncheon at Pershing.Page A6

■ Young anglers can cast for rainbow trout at derby Feb. 29.Page B1

■ Housing residents to receive 2020 U.S. Census invitations in March.Page A4

■ Joint-use FLW airport open to civilians.Page A3

IndexCommentary ..................A2News Briefs ....................A3 Chaplain’s Corner ..........A5Community ....................A6Off Duty ......................... B1Movies ............................ B3

Photo by Dawn ArdenDavid Henry, left, Department of Homeland Security Information Network pro-gram mission advocate, presents a Best of HSIN 2019 Silver Award to James Ra-benold, Homeland Defense Civil Support Office Fort Leonard Wood director, Feb. 13 at the Lt. Joseph Terry Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Responder Training Facility.

See QUANDER Page A3See BLOOD Page A4

By Carl NormanArmed Services Blood Program Recruiter

Twelve months of thanks and appreciation were handed out at the Pershing Community Center Jan. 30 as the Fort Leonard Wood Blood Donor Center conducted its 2019 Donor Appreciation Ceremony.

The ceremony recognized more than 70 on-post units and individuals who donated blood to the Armed Services Blood Program in 2019.

The Marine Corps Detachment’s Leadership and Professional Development Section captured the Top Donating Unit award for donating 1,012 units. Since each blood donation can be separated into plasma and red blood cells, 2,024 blood products can be manufactured from their donations and sent to ill and injured service and family members around the globe.

Additionally, eight individuals received gallon-donor certificates. A donor reaches the gallon milestone with every eight blood donations. Their 64 collective units can make 128 blood products available to ill and injured people around the De-partment of Defense.

In all, the Fort Leonard Wood Blood Donor Cen-ter staff collected more than 6,400 units of blood in 2019. This made nearly 13,000 blood products available to people throughout the DoD. To help put this into perspective, the blood donated could make one blood product available to every man, woman and child in the Waynesville – St. Robert area.

“Combat survivability in Afghanistan and Iraq is higher than in any American war because blood is considered a critical readiness item,” said Maj. Manuela Bauldry, Fort Leonard Wood Blood Donor Center officer in charge. “Command support at every level is crucial to ensure the availability of blood products to our service members and their families continues in war and peace.”

Sgt. 1st Class Brittney Bailey, General Leonard Wood Army Community Hospital Primary Care Clinic clinical non-commissioned officer in charge, Marine Sgt. Maj. Jason Gillespie, Marine Corps Detachment, and Col. Jason Corley, Army Blood Program director, were guest speakers. Collec-tively they emphasized the important role blood donors play in saving lives.

“Blood donors saved my daughter’s life,” Bailey said.

She told how getting treated for an injury suf-fered at her daughter’s daycare provider helped discover potentially life-threatening internal inju-ries that required blood transfusions.

“If someone, someplace had not donated blood, my daughter would not be here today,” Bailey said.

Gillespie followed Bailey, jokingly saying he was happy to see a Marine unit take top honors at an Army post. Then he seriously noted that wheth-er it’s service members injured on the battlefield

FLW Blood Center recognizes its top 2019 donors

Making American History

FLW Incident Response Training Department wins HSIN award

Story and photo by Lynda YezziTransaltlantic Division Office of Public Affairs

It was fitting that the promotion ceremony for newly promoted Brig. Gen. Mark Quander took

place Friday, halfway through Black History Month.

The extended Quander family is the only African-American family to produce four general officers in the U.S. military. The other three retired general officers who encom-pass this history were also in atten-dance at the promotion ceremony: Gen. Vincent Brooks, Maj. Gen. Leo Brooks, Sr., and Brig. Gen. Leo Brooks, Jr. The Brooks family re-mains the only African-American family to have three generals from the same immediate family, and is connected to the Quander fam-ily tree in several ways, with the

primary link being through Naomi Lewis Brooks, the mother to Leo Jr. and Vincent Brooks.

Quander, the commandant of the U.S. Army Engineer School at Fort Leonard Wood, comes from a long line of West Point Cadets and general officers but the roots of his family trace back in America to 1684. The Quander family is be-lieved to be the oldest documented African-American family that has come from African ancestry to present day America. Quander’s promotion added not only to the Quander family history, it also added to American and African-American history.

The promotion ceremony took place at Joint Base Myer-Hender-son Hall in Arlington, Virginia, and was hosted by Lt. Gen. Todd Semonite, the 54th Chief of Engi-

neers and Commanding General of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

In addition to the multitude of “stars” represented by the ranks of active and retired guests at the ceremony, “stars” was also the theme of Semonite’s remarks. He said that although it’s not reflected in Army lore, it is his personal be-lief that the “star” was chosen to represent general officers because its five-points signify five char-acteristics inherent in U.S. Army Corps of Engineers leaders.

Semonite said in Biblical times “the star was the bright and shin-ing light people followed. It gave them direction. It gave them mean-ing. It gave them clarity. It gave them guidance on what to do. So

Brig. Gen. Mark Quander’s new rank is pinned to his uniform by his wife, retired Lt. Col. Melonie Quander, left, and his mother Gail Friday at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall in Arlington, Virginia.

Quander pins on brigadier general, his family's fourth general officer

Special to GUIDON

Each February, during Black History Month, the nation remembers the important contributions African-Americans have made throughout U.S. history.

The National Guard’s history is also replete with examples of African-Americans who served with distinction. A notable example existed within the three National Guard regiments that fought in World War I under the U.S. Army’s 93rd Divi-sion: the 369th, 370th and 372nd Infantry Regiments.

Although organized as an all-black division for the war, these regiments did not fight as one. Instead, each was as-signed to French divisions, as the French were requesting the immediate use of American divisions to reinforce the French army. Each of the regiments took part in major com-bat operations and received battlefield accolades for their service with the French army.

Probably one of the most famous American units to emerge from World War I was the 369th Infantry, or “Har-lem Hellfighters.”

Organized in the summer of 1916 as a result of state leg-islation authorizing the formation of a black National Guard regiment, the 15th Infantry, New York National Guard, was called into federal service in July 1917 and ordered to France. After three attempts crossing the Atlantic, the 15th landed in France in December 1917 and discovered it had been re-designated as the 369th Infantry Regiment. After being attached to the French army for training, it was as-signed to the 161st Infantry Division of the French army.

The regiment took part in major operations in the Cham-pagne-Marne, Meuse-Argonne, Champagne and Alsace campaigns — campaigns where front lines were retaken or German attacks were thwarted.

Overall, the regiment spent 191 days on the front-line trenches. For its actions, the 369th was cited 11 times for bravery and was decorated with the French Croix de Guerre with Silver Star for service during the Meuse-Argonne campaign.

In addition to having the unique distinction of receiving three nicknames: “Harlem Hellfighters,” “Men of Bronze,” and the “Black Watch,” the 369th’s regimental band was well known throughout Europe for its concerts and is credited with introducing American jazz to Europe.

Since World War I, the 369th underwent several reorga-nizations and is known today as New York National Guard’s Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 369th Sustain-ment Brigade.

(Editor’s note: This article originally appeared on the Na-tional Guard’s website.)

Thursday, February 20, 2020Section A, Page 2 GUIDON

Special to GUIDON

In just two minutes, a fire can become life-threatening. In five minutes, a residence can be engulfed in flames.

According to the U.S. Fire Administra-tion, more than 1.3 million fires in the United States occurred in 2017, resulting in $23 bil-lion in losses, 3,400 deaths and 14,670 injuries.

The Department of Homeland Security urges everyone to keep in mind these four important elements about fire:

Fire is fast — In less than 30 seconds a small flame can

turn into a major fire. It only takes minutes for thick black smoke to fill a house or for it to be engulfed in flames.

Fire is hot— Heat is more threatening than flames.

Room temperatures in a fire can be 100 de-grees at floor level and rise to 600 degrees at eye level. Inhaling this super-hot air will scorch your lungs and melt clothes to your skin.

Fire is dark— Fire starts bright, but quickly produces

black smoke and complete darkness.

Fire is deadly— Smoke and toxic gases kill more people

than flames do. Fire produces poisonous gases that make you disoriented and drowsy. Asphyxiation is the leading cause of fire deaths, exceeding burns by a three-to-one ratio.

Before a fireRemember that every second counts if

a fire breaks out, so always be prepared. Before any possible fire can strike, formu-late an escape plan so it’s possible to exit the house or building as quickly as possible.

It’s a good idea to practice the escape plan at least twice per year. Here are some tips to consider when preparing this plan:

— Find two ways to get out of each room in the event the primary way is blocked by fire or smoke.

— A secondary route might be a window onto a neighboring roof or a collapsible lad-der for escape from upper story windows.

— Make sure that windows are not stuck, screens can be taken out quickly, and that security bars can be properly opened.

— Practice feeling your way out of the house in the dark or with your eyes closed.

— Teach children not to hide from firefighters.

Smoke alarmsA working smoke alarm significantly in-

creases your chances of surviving a deadly home fire. Complete these tasks to ensure fire alarms in the house are working as they should:

— Install both ionization and photoelectric smoke alarms, or dual-sensor smoke alarms, which contain both ionization and photoelec-tric smoke sensors.

— Test batteries monthly.— Replace batteries in battery-powered

and hard-wired smoke alarms at least once a year (except non-replaceable 10-year lithium batteries).

— Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including the basement, both inside and outside of sleeping areas.

— Replace the entire smoke alarm unit every 8-10 years or according to manufac-turer’s instructions.

— Never disable a smoke alarm while cooking — it can be a deadly mistake. During a fire

While it may be difficult to keep a clear head during a time of crisis, it’s important to remember these tips which can help improve survival chances from a fire:

— Crawl low under any smoke to your exit. Heavy smoke and poisonous gases collect first along the ceiling.

— Before opening a door, feel the doorknob and door. If either is hot, or if there is smoke coming around the door, leave the door closed and use your second way out.

— If you open a door, open it slowly. Be ready to shut it quickly if heavy smoke or fire is present.

— If you can’t get to someone needing as-sistance, leave and call 911. Tell the emer-gency operator where the person is located.

— If pets are trapped inside your home, tell firefighters right away, but do not re-enter a burning structure. Firefighters are trained professionals.

— If you can’t get out, close the door and cover vents and cracks around doors with cloth or tape to keep smoke out. Call 911, tell the dispatcher where you are and signal for help at the window with a light-colored cloth or a flashlight.

— If your clothes catch fire, stop, drop and roll. Stop immediately, drop to the ground and cover your face with your hands. Roll over and over or back and forth until the fire is out. If it is impossible to stop, drop and roll, smother the flames with a blanket or towel.

— Use cool water to treat burns immedi-ately for three to five minutes. Cover burns with a clean, dry cloth. Seek medical help right away by calling 911.

The USFA reported that 51.4 percent of all residential building fires in 2017 were caused by cooking, so never leave food on the stove unattended, as it could result in the loss of the entire dwelling or even life itself.

For more information on fire prevention, visit the USFA’s website at https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/.

(Editor’s note: This article was originally published on the Department of Homeland Security website, ready.gov.)

Photo courtesy of the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency

This commercial enterprise newspaper is an authorized

publication for members of the U.S. Army. Contents of the

GUIDON are not necessarily official views of, or endorsed

by, the U.S. government, the Department of Defense,

Department of the Army or the U.S. Army Maneuver

Support Center of Excellence and Fort Leonard Wood. It is

published weekly using photo-offset reproduction by the

Public Affairs Office, U.S. Army Maneuver Support Center

of Excellence and Fort Leonard Wood, Fort Leonard Wood,

Mo. 65473.

Everything advertised in this publication shall be made

available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to

race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status,

physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other nonmerit

factor of the purchaser, user or patron. If a violation or

rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is

confirmed, the printer shall refuse to print advertising from

that source until the violation is corrected.

All editorial content of the GUIDON is prepared,

edited, provided and approved by the Fort Leonard Wood

Public Affairs Office. GUIDON is printed by the Springfield

News-Leader, a private firm in no way connected with the

Department of the Army, under exclusive written contract

with Fort Leonard Wood. Springfield News-Leader is

responsible for commercial advertising.

The appearance of advertising in this publication,

including inserts or supplements, does not constitute

endorsement by the Department of the Army or Springfield

News-Leader of the products or services advertised.

Printed circulation is 7,000 copies per week.

Public Affairs Office573.563.5014

Springfield News-Leader417.836.1100

Published weekly - Thursday

Commanding general: Maj. Gen. Donna Martin

Public Affairs officer: Tiffany Wood

Managing editor: Brian Hill

Assistant editors:Matt Decker

Sam Campbell

Springfield News-Leader staff:President:

Allen JonesAdvertising accounts:

Joshwa McMullen, 417.836.1168

GUIDON published by:

MSCoE Heroes of the WeekSpecial to GUIDON

MilitaryMajs. John Foster and Antonio Bisbal of the Maneu-

ver Support Battle Lab are inspiring excellence here at Fort Leonard Wood.

Contributing to the Maneuver Support Center of Ex-cellence’s efforts as the proponent for the Protection Warfighting Function, they have created an innova-tive analysis tool that pulls information from multiple sources to provide commanders with information.

This data could help commanders make risk-based decisions, and it paints a picture of what has hap-pened, what could happen and what should happen (automated forecasting).

CivilianMSCoE recognizes Anthony Narug, a detective in

the Directorate of Emergency Services, for extending his influence outside of the normal sphere.

Narug coordinated with the State of Missouri, local and regional authorities, the county prosecutor’s of-fice, domestic violence shelters and family advocacy programs to provide training to cover varying signs of domestic violence, along with trends in cases in the state.

Putting information and ideas from the session to work will ensure greater success in investigating, prosecuting and seeking accountability in a meaning-ful way.

It may stop violence before it starts.(Editor’s note: This article was submitted to the

GUIDON by MSCoE.)

Homeland Security: Fires and what you can do

According to the United States Fire Administration, 51.4 percent of all residential building fires in 2017 were caused by cooking accidents. The Department of Homeland Security advises people to never use stove ranges or ovens to heat dwellings, and always keep combustible/flammable liquids away from heat sources.

The Harlem Hellfighters were originally designated the 15th New York Colored Infantry Regiment, according to Britanica.com. They received their nickname from the Germans they faced in battle. Ac-cording to the Library of Congress, about 350,000 African Ameri-cans served in segregated units in the military during World War I.

Photo courtesy of the National Guard

Black History Month:

The Harlem Hellfighters

Section A, Page 3Thursday, February 20, 2020 GUIDON

FLW now hiring for 2020 mowing season

Fort Leonard Wood’s Directorate of Public Works is currently hiring tem-porary laborers and tractor operators for the 2020 mowing season (March 2 through Nov. 15). Anyone interested can apply online at www.usajobs.gov (search for “laborer” or “tractor opera-tor” in the 65473 area code).

TSA seeks decoy passengers for canine screening training

The Transportation Security Admin-istration is seeking volunteers to act as decoys as part of their passenger screening canine training program at St. Louis Lambert International Airport. Shifts involve carrying a concealed training aid through a zone where a team is conducting a search. A short safety briefing will be given. For more information, call 314.873.3769 or email michael.dodson@tsa.dhs.gov.

Public comment periodThe United States Army Corps

of Engineers Kansas City District has established a time period for the public to review and comment on proposed plans for the Active Vehicle Maintenance Shop and FLW-019 (a former landfill). The plans are

available for viewing at the main gate visitor center, and the comment period runs through March 13. A public meeting is scheduled for 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the St. Robert Municipal Center (194 Eastlawn Ave.).

Portable metal detector available for RAM programs

The Fort Leonard Wood Anti-terror-ism and Force Protection office recently acquired a portable walk-through metal detector to enhance the installation ran-dom antiterrorism measures program. Units can sign out the metal detector as part of their individual RAM program or for special events. For more infor-mation, call 573.563.6326.

New Employee OnboardingThe next New Employee Onboarding

Course is scheduled for March 16 to 19. The course provides head starts for ci-vilian employees new to Fort Leonard Wood on mandatory trainings, personal and professional development — to in-clude the Defense Performance Man-agement and Appraisal Program — as well as a chance to network with other new people. For more information, or to sign up, email vincent.d.carlton.civ@mail.mil.

Quanderfrom page A1

NEWS BRIEFS

Frank Hugleman, private pilot instructor, discusses the mechanics of his single-engine aircraft with Archer Hedgepath, right, who is currently taking flying lessons at Forney Airfield.

I think the star is extremely fitting,” he said. “In my mind there are five points on a star and when it comes to engineers I find those five points are for very specific areas that we look for in general offi-cers. Those five points are: A proven tactical leader, a professional engineer, a visionary strategic lead-er, a combat war fighter, and a patriot.”

Quander’s biography shows his experience across all “points of the star.” His background includes stints as a tactical and strategic leader and an engi-neer. He also has three combat deployments to date: Enduring Freedom in 2002 and again in 2011; Iraqi Freedom in 2007; and a humanitarian deployment in the aftermath of the Haiti earthquake in 2010. Regarding Quander and his family, it’s easy to mea-sure the star’s final point — being a patriot — ac-cording to Semonite.

“This extended family comes from a long line of patriots. They possess a commitment to duty and a love of country that is more important to them than life itself,” Semonite said. “It is no wonder that for nearly 26 years Mark has taken on some of the toughest jobs and made a positive difference in the lives of those that are most vulnerable.”

In his speech after the promotion, Quander re-flected on those who went before him, and those who have been on his family’s journey up to that point.

“(I am) a product of my many influences — most-ly my faith, my family and my friends with the lat-ter two really only being differentiated by relation,” Quander said. “My faith, which is strong and impor-tant for me, has given me strength and persever-ance to endure the tough times but also grounded in the good ones. My family — both immediate and extended — have allowed me to serve my country in ways that have made this a possible.”

Quander also reflected on being married for 20 years to Melonie Quander, a retired lieutenant colo-nel and Army nurse, and how they’ve moved 14 times during their joint military careers. He said their “miracle baby,” daughter Grace, has been with them on the journey, moving around the world fol-lowing both her mom and dad each time they were called to serve in another location. Quander said he is fond of saying it takes a village to raise a child. He said his village has defied geography and is with-out precondition. It includes his mom and dad, Mel-onie, his mother-in-law, a best friend who served as surrogate parents for his family when they needed help, and his West Point classmates who he has been fortunate to service alongside for almost 25 years. Finally, he thanked Grace, whom Quander says is his greatest achievement.

“My uncle Frankie asked me yesterday, ‘What are you most proud of?’ and I told him I am most proud of being a dad. Grace you’ve endured a lot. You are pretty resilient and you keep me grounded. At ev-ery level you challenge me. Thanks for everything you do.

“Today is pretty special as I accept and wear the family heirloom of a brigadier general. I promise to carry the legacy and wear them well,” Quander said.

Joint-use FLW airport open to civiliansStory and photo by Sam CampbellAssistant editorsjcampbell@gannett.com

Officials at the Waynesville-St. Robert Regional Airport, also known as Forney Airfield, encour-aged on- and off-post civilians to take full ad-

vantage of the hub’s several uses, and not be deterred due to its location on a military installation.

“Aviators think that they cannot fly into Fort Leon-ard Wood or bring their student pilots to Fort Leon-ard Wood to fly because the airspace is closed off to them,” said Bryan Rush, assistant airspace officer and air traffic controller.

He said although it is unusual for a military site, Forney Airfield serves as a joint-use airport for both military and civilian activities.

“The only thing that aviators have to do is make two-way radio communication with us, and they can come in,” he said. “Just like any other airport that they would go to.”

Rush said military-specific forms or licenses are not needed to use the airport.

“We have two current civilian instructor pilots op-erating out of the airport,” he said. “They’re open to anyone — civilian, military, whoever wants to fly — they’ll teach them how to fly.”

Jose Palasi, air traffic control tower chief, said having a staffed air traffic control tower distinguish-es this airport from others around the area, as well.

“Basically, between here and St. Louis, Columbia and Springfield, we’re the only air traffic control.”

Rush explained why that’s important for training.“One of the things that is very important for pi-

lots is to learn how to talk to and interact with air

traffic controllers. That is absolutely crucial,” he said. “Here, you have live air traffic controllers.”

Rush said civilians can rent hangars here, too.“Either way you look at it, flying is an expensive

habit,” he said. “You want to go to the place where your dollar can stretch the farthest.”

Rush and Palasi recognized that pilots’ maps may be unintentionally misleading them, as restricted air-space borders around the post are not always active.

“These are airspaces that the FAA has given the Army for things that are considered hazardous to regular people who aren’t participating,” Rush said. “(Contact) air traffic control and see if it’s active. Most of the time, it’s not.”

In addition to the services the airfield offers pri-vate pilots and those in training, civilians can pur-chase flights out of Fort Leonard Wood to St. Louis — Forney Airfield officials confirmed that the auxiliary parking lot across the street from the terminal is free for travelers.

“This is something that the government has decid-ed,” Rush said. “They really want this to be a hub for the local region, and we’re open for business.”

Rick Vise, Security Operations Division chief, said there are a few steps civilians must follow if they want to get on post and use the airport.

“Anyone wishing to fly out of Fort Leonard Wood will need to have either a digital or paper copy of their ticket,” he said. “They will need to present that to the visitor center staff as well as valid picture ID such as a driver’s license.”

He added that visitor center staff will conduct a criminal background check, and upon an all-clear sig-nal, they will give a pass which should be presented to the gate guards.

SL-0000452100(573) STORAGE • 573storage.com

20155 Salina RdWaynesville, MOLocated at (West Gate) 1-44 Exit 156

10%MILITARY DISCOUNT

SL-GCI031

4154

-02

Thursday, February 20, 2020Section A, Page 4 GUIDON

Bloodfrom page A1

By Sgt. Logan ThomasGUIDON staff

As the U.S. prepares to count its population for the 24th time since 1790, all residents living on Fort

Leonard Wood and the surrounding communities can anticipate receiving their 2020 Census invitations in the mail between March 12 and 20.

This year is the first time census tak-ers are able to respond to the question-naire online, however the invitation will also provide instructions on how to complete the census over the phone. Anyone who does neither will be sent a paper questionnaire — a team member will visit in person between May and July those addresses without completed census forms.

According to www.census.gov, the purpose of the constitutionally man-dated census is to get an accurate count of the population and gather important statistical data. This information is used to determine congressional rep-resentation and distribution of federal funding for schools, highway planning and construction, programs to support rural areas and housing assistance for older adults.

The census will collect basic infor-mation about household members, such as name, sex, date of birth and race of people living in each household. It will also ask if a residence is a house, apartment or mobile home — questions that help produce statistics about home ownership.

For those who need the census in an-other language, the census is available in braille, sign language and 59 other languages at www.2020census.gov/ languages.

According to the census website, personal information provided on the census is safeguarded, and the Census Bureau is bound by law to keep infor-mation confidential. In addition, the

Census Bureau will not send emails re-questing participation in the 2020 Cen-sus and census employees will never ask for Social Security Numbers, bank account or credit card information, or for money or donations.

Military members living barracks will be counted in April, along with any-one residing in group living arrange-ments — this includes senior centers and students in dorms.

For deployed service members, they should be counted at their usual home address in the U.S., and as service members tend to change addresses a lot, they should make sure to only count themselves once.

According to the census website, if people have moved into their new resi-dence by April 1, they should count themselves at the new residence. Peo-ple who have moved out, but not moved into a new home by April 1 should still count themselves at their old residence.

More information on the 2020 U.S. Census can be found at www.census.gov or by calling 800.923.8282.

Special to GUIDON

In conformance with Executive Or-ders 11988 — Floodplain Management — and EO1190 — Protection of Wet-lands — notification is hereby given that Fort Leonard Wood officials have evaluated the effects that ongoing mission activities on the installation and the Lake of the Ozarks Recreation Area may have on the floodplain.

A programmatic environmental as-sessment was completed in July 2017, which evaluated training and mission actions, routine operation and main-tenance actions, real estate transac-tions, and training area and range modernization.

The PEA resulted in a finding of no significant impact.

Additionally, proposed actions on post also include several types of ac-tions that do not individually or cu-mulatively have the potential to cause significant effects on the environ-ment. Actions of this type typically qualify for a categorical exclusion under the National Environmental Policy Act and do not require further environmental analysis in an environ-mental assessment or an environmen-tal impact statement. However, com-pliance with all other requirements related to the proposal, including

requirements for permits and state regulatory agency review of the plans, will be required.

Post officials are preparing a finding of no practicable alternative to docu-ment the proposed actions that will potentially occur in a floodplain.

It is policy to avoid impacts on flood-plains whenever there is a practical alternative for a proposed action; for design and construction projects so that runoff from rain events will not adversely impact existing streams, upstream systems and downstream systems; and ensure adherence with federal, state and local regulations and post policies.

Copies of the final PEA and FNSI are available for public review at the FLW Environmental Division website, at https://home.army.mil/wood/index.php/about/garrison/dpw. To obtain a copy of the PEA and FNSI, or for ad-ditional information, contact Martha Miller, National Environmental Policy Act program manager for the Direc-torate of Public Works Environmental Division — 8112 Nebraska Avenue, Bldg. 11400 — at 573.596.8627, or email martha.m.miller.civ@mail.mil.

Written comments must be received on or before March 31.

(Editor’s note: This article was sub-mitted to the GUIDON by the DPW.)

or children like Bailey’s daughter, ev-eryone needs to help those in need.

Some places have trouble with that, he said, but “Fort Leonard Wood doesn’t have that problem. This is my second time being stationed here — I asked to come back … because there is such a sense of community. The Marine Corps Detachment is proud to join you in supporting the Armed Services Blood Program and will con-tinue to do so.”

Summing it all up, Corley applaud-ed everyone’s efforts and said with-out donors and command support, the military blood program could not do its job.

“Blood is mission critical for pa-tients both on the battlefield and at home,” he said.

“2019 was our most successful col-lection year in recent history,” Bauld-ry said. “That only happened because we had fantastic collection team and

donors and leaders who were dedicat-ed to saving lives. On behalf of every-one at the donor center, we thank you all for a great 2019 and look forward to a better 2020.”

Since 1962, the Armed Services Blood Program has served as the sole provider of blood for the U.S. mili-tary. As a joint operation, the ASBP collects, processes, stores and dis-tributes blood and blood products to service members and their families worldwide. As one in four national blood collection organizations trusted to ensure the nation has a safe, potent blood supply, the ASBP works closely with civilian counterparts by sharing donors on military installations where there are no military collection cen-ters and by sharing blood products in times of need to maximize availability.

To find out more about the ASBP or to schedule a donation, visit https://www.militaryblood.dod.mil.

2020 U.S. CensusFLW housing residents to receive questionnaire invitations in March

Why is it essential that everyone participates?— It's about fair representation:

The results are used to reapportion the House of Representatives.

— It's about redistricting:

Congressional and state legislative districts are redrawn after a census to account for population shifts.

— It's about $675 billion:

Federal money for schools, hospitals, roads and other programs is distributed based on the census.

Notice of availability

Environmental documents ready for review

Cedarhurst of Lebanon is

NOWOPEN! EVERYTHINGis included

Everyoneiswelcome

842 Lynn St. | CedarhurstLebanon.com

And everything is brand new.

If your level of care changes over time, yourmonthlyratewill stay the same. No hidden fees or extra charges!

• Expert and compassionate caregivers• 24/7 emergency call system• Onsite therapy center• Chef-prepared dining options in a restaurant-style setting• Life-enriching activities• Beautiful outdoor spaces with courtyards

Call today to schedule a personal touror simply drop in for coffee or lunch!

Enjoy a purposeful and fulfilling lifestylein our community of comfort and convenience.

Especially this: An all-inclusive rate!

Contact us at (417) 344-2097or lebanon@cedarhurstliving.com.

By Chaplain (Maj.) Joshua MetzSpecial to GUIDON

This week’s read-ing comes from Matthew 5:38-48,

where we find Christ’s teaching on the lex ta-lionis, the ancient law principle often trans-literated as the “law of retaliation.”

His famous response to the principle of “an eye for an eye” is to “turn the other cheek.” Christians have de-bated for millennia on how to interpret this passage, and some interpretations prove particularly troubling for a military audience.

Much of the modern debate about this pas-sage hinges on whether or not Christ’s words are a call to compre-hensive non-violence.

Scripture contains a rich tapestry of teach-ings on violence and warfare. Some believe war is inexcusable un-der any circumstance and cite today’s read-ing as their proof. Oth-ers believe wars may be prosecuted based on national interest and cite Romans 13 as their proof. Historically, the Church has articulated a mediating view in what has popularly become known as Just War Theory, the princi-ple exponents of which were St. Augustine and St. Aquinas.

In short, Just War Theory attempts to har-monize the Biblical wit-ness, arguing that war may only be sanctioned by a legitimate author-ity (a duly established government), for a just purpose (self-defense), with the ultimate aim of establishing a lasting

peace. None of

this allows Christians to bypass the teach-ings of their Lord, for we indeed

are called to, when-ever possible, break the cycle of violence. However, as Soldiers of a duly established gov-ernment “of the people, by the people, and for the people,” we are the duly designated guar-antors of the peace in a dangerous world.

There is a well-known Latin phrase which encapsulates the tension inherent in both scripture and Just War Theory: “si vis pacem, para bellum” or “if you want peace, prepare for war.”

So, while we seek and pray for peace daily, we should also train daily as if we had to fight tonight.

(Editor’s note: Metz is the ethics instructor for the U.S. Army Chemi-cal, Biological, Radio-logical and Nuclear School.)

CHAPLAIN’S CORNER

Section A, Page 5Thursday, February 20, 2020 GUIDON

Turning the other cheek and ‘Just War’

Fort Leonard Wood Worship Schedule

Catholic WorshipCatholic Mass5 p.m. Saturdays9 a.m. SundaysSpanish Mass6:30 p.m. 3rd Saturday of the monthSoldier Memorial Chapel

Adoration6 p.m. 1st FridaySoldier Memorial Chapel

Confessions 4 to 4:30 p.m. Saturdays8 to 8:30 a.m. Sundays

Baptisms5 p.m. Mass — Last Saturday

Daily Mass11:40 a.m. Tuesdays through FridaysHospital Chapel

ProtestantLiturgical Protestant Service8:30 a.m. Sundays South Iowa Chapel

Gospel Protestant 10 a.m. Sundays Central Iowa Chapel

Traditional Protestant Service 11 a.m. SundaysSoldier Memorial Chapel

Crossroads Service 11 a.m. SundaysMain Post Chapel

Other servicesBuddhist:10 a.m. Sundays North Iowa Chapel

Seventh Day Adventist:3 p.m. Saturdays Specker Barracks Chapel

Sunday SchoolsCatholic Confraternity of Christian Doctrine RCIA & RCIC11 a.m. (K–8th/Confirmation)

YREC

Catholic Youth Group1 p.m. SundaysYREC

Worship/StudiesProtestant Women of the Chapel (PWOC),9 a.m. Tuesdays Main Post Chapel

Kids 4 Christ, (Grades 1-5)4 p.m. Tuesdays YREC

Christ Fit5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays Main Post Chapel

Chapel Youth Group (Grades 6-12)6:15 p.m. WednesdaysYREC

Knights of Columbus — Catholic Men6 p.m., second Tuesday, Sol-dier Memorial Chapel Annex

Gospel Bible Study6:30 p.m. Wednesdays —Central Iowa Chapel

Catholic Women of the Chapel (CWOC)9 a.m. Fridays Main Post Chapel, 11 a.m. SundaysYREC

Seventh Day Adventist Bible Study9:30 a.m. Sundays Main Post Chapel

Officer Christian Fellowship11:45 a.m. ThursdaysLincoln Hall

Navigators Bible Study7 p.m. FridaysSpecker Barracks Chapel

Lunch with the Lord11:45 a.m. ThursdaysMain Post Chapel

Metz

Courtesy image

Episcopal

Interdenominational

Christian Church

Baptist Baptist

Seventh Day Adventist

Fort Leonard Wood Area

Church Directory

ADVERTISE IN THE GUIDON417-836-1168

Lutheran

SL-0000445323

BRIARWOOD BAPTIST CHURCH“The Reformed Voice of the Ozarks”

20355 Hobart RoadHwy 28, l/2 Miles North of I-44

Dixon, MO 65459(573) 336-5698 • Email: lindell12000@yahoo.comSunday School 9:45 am • Worship 11:00 am

Bible Study 1:30 pm & Wed at 7:00 pm

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OFST. ROBERT

Sunday School ................................ 9:50 amMorning Worship........................... 10:55 amEvening Worship.............................. 6:00 pmWednesday Bible Study .................. 7:00 pm

Sanctified Believers of GodWorking and Praying for Christlike

Christian Living and ServiceEveryone Welcome | Nursery AvailableZeigenbein & Church Street, St. Robert

Phone 573-336-4943

GREATER COMMUNITYMISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCHPastor Chris A. Parks, DDiv21325 N. Hwy Y • St. Robert

(573) 336-4477 • greatercommunitymbc.comSunday Morning Prayer...........................8:00-8:30amSunday Christian Education ....................8:30-9:30amSunday Worship............................................ 10:00 amTuesday Night Prayer...............................6:00-7:00pmWednesday Prayer...................................6:00-6:30pmWednesday Bible Study...........................6:30-7:30pm

Transportation Available

ROLLA CHURCH OF CHRIST1303 Nagogami Rd (Hwy E)

Rolla, MO 65402www.seekgrowservelove.org • 573-364-3488Sunday Bible Class ............... 9:30 amSunday Worship.................. 10:30 amSunday Night ... Various Small GroupsWednesday Bible Study ........ 6:30 pmChildren’s Day School......Tues & Thur

MARANATHA BAPTIST CHURCHA Soul Winning Church

200 Acorn Dr. • St. Robert, MO 65584Phone 573-336-5972

Keith Carnahan - PastorSunday School........................................10:00 amMorning Worship....................................11:00 amSunday Afternoon Worship.......................2:00 pmWednesday Prayer Service.......................6:30 pm

Maranatha Baptist Academy K4 thru 12200 Acorn Dr., St. Robert, MO

3

WESTSIDE BAPTIST CHURCH801 Historic Rt. 66 W., Waynesville, MO 65583573-774-6431• www.westsidewaynesville.comE-mail: ministry@westsidewaynesville.com

Pastor: John ShawSunday Schedule:

Blended Worship................................................. 8:30 amContemporary Worship..................... 9:45 am & 11:00 amTraditional Worship ........................................... 11:00 amSunday School/Bible Study .................... 9:45 & 11:00 amWiseguys, Lifegroups, Ignite,MOM2MOM & POPS ........................................... 5:00 pm

Nursery Provided For All ServicesWednesday Schedule:

Aftershock(after school program for middle school students) .....2:45 pmWestside Family Missions(local area mission projects)....................................6:00 pm

Hispanic Ministry ~ Ministerio HispanoDomingos: 11am Predicacion Expositivia & 5:00 pm Estudio Biblico

Congregation Beth Sar MessiahA Messianic Ministry - 7 pm FridaySL-0000445338

SPANISH CHRISTIAN LIGHTHOUSEMision El Faro • We are Bilingual

118/120 Historic Route 66 • Waynesville, MO.Phone 573-774-5557 • Pastor: Benito V. Perez

Wednesday Service..................................7:00 pmSunday School........................................10:15 amSunday Service......................................11:00 amSunday Evening Service...........................6:00 pm

(only on the last Sunday of each month)We Speak Spanish & English

SL-0000445324

CHURCH OF GODST. ROBERT466 Historic Rt 66

St. Robert, MO 65584(573) 336-4751 • www.cgsr.orgSunday Classes 9:30 & Worship 10:45

CHRIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH1000 Main Street Rolla, MO 65401

Office Phone: 573-364-1499www.ChristEpiscopalChurchRolla.comSunday Holy Eucharist .. 8:00 & 10:00 amSunday School/Adult Forum .......9:00 amThursday Holy Eucharist .............5:30 pm

The Rev. Aune J. Strom Ph.D.

THE RIVERHoward Malone, Pastor

Call Church Office for Information -Phone 573-774-2541

25625 Highway 17, Waynesville, MO 65583

Prayer ........................................................................ 9:00 amSunday Worship Service.......................................... 10.00 amWednesday Evening ARK Kids Club 2yrs - 6th Grade .. 6:00 pmWednesday Evening The Pursuit - 7th-12th Grades .. 6:00 pm

A Multi-Cultural Inter-Denominational ChurchSL-0000445336

FAITH EVANGELICALLUTHERAN CHURCH(Missouri Synod)

981 Highway Z • St. Robert, MO 65584 • 573-336-4464Pastor: Rev. John Perling

Sunday School........................................... 9:15 amSunday Worship ...................................... 10:30 amLadies Aid (1st Thursday) .......................12:30 pmVisit us online for activity schedule or to learn more

www.felcstrobert.orgSL-0000445325

25190 Highway 17, Waynesville, MO 65583Prayer Meeting................Wednesday 7:00 PMBible Study ............................ Thursday 6:00 PMSabbath Worship Service ... Saturday 3:30 PMSabbath School ................... Saturday 2:30 PM

Pastor Craig Wiles: 417-830-4039Elder Easton Purkiss: 573-889-7264

Goodrich Gas, Inc.“Let Us KeepYou Warm”

Crocker736-2216

Dixon759-6400

Richland765-5544

St. Robert336-4045

GoodRich

GASL P

S. Outer Rd. & I-44St. Robert, MO

310 Ichord AveWaynesville, MO

309 Highway Z, St. Robert, MO(573) 336-7272 • Fax (573) 336-4307Reservation: 1-800-553-2666

SL-00

0044

5330

Quality Bible TeachingAnd Christian NewsAll Day, Everyday

89.9 FMJeff City/Columbia

106.3 FM/1590 AMRolla

90.5 FMDixon

Area Manager, Sue Stoltz573-647-6285

SL-0000445337

WAYNESVILLEFIRST BAPTIST CHURCH

“Where the nations meet to worship”202 North Benton Street

573-774-2352 • www.fbcwaynesville.com** Behind the Post Office**

Sunday ScheduleMorning Service ............................................. 11:00 AMSunday School.................................................. 9:45 AMEvening Service ................................................ 6:00 PM

Wednesday ScheduleBible Study and Prayer Service ......................... 6:00 PM

Thursday ScheduleMen’s Bible Study............................................. 7:00 PM

Church of God

Church of Christ

CHURCH OF CHRISTWaynesville Congregation

1114 Historic Rt. 66 W, Waynesville, MO65583

www.wynscofc.comPhone: 573-774-5205

Sunday School ............................9:30amSunday Worship........................10:30amSunday Evening Worship............1:00pmWednesday Evening....................7:00pm

Free Home BibleCorrespondence Courses

SL-GCI0312614-01

PRIDE INWHEREWE LIVE

PRIDE INWHEREWE SHOPMany of our local merchants and employees were military themselves,

and understand the needs of military families

BUY IT LOCAL

KEEP IT LOCAL

Get your FREE Keytag @ WaynesvilleSt Robert Chamber Office

Find Shop Local Keytag Discounts

@ KEEPITLOCAL.BIZ

SAVE SOME MONEY

Make a DifferenceSHOPLOCAL1.

2.

3.

Captains Orders:

Story and photo by Sam CampbellAssistant editorsjcampbell@gannett.com

Fort Leonard Wood held its annual Black History Month Celebration Luncheon Tuesday at the Pershing Community Cen-

ter in recognition of the contributions African-Americans have made to the nation.

The 14th Military Police Brigade hosted the event, featuring performances from the Waynes-ville Middle School Choir and 399th Army Band vocalist Spc. Princess Kirchner.

Chaplain (Capt.) Joseph McCall delivered the invocation, thanking God and recognizing the names of prominent African-Americans through-out history.

“Sovereign Lord, thank you for the opportunity to honor our ancestors — people like Frederick Douglass, Crispus Attucks, Martin Luther King Jr., Marcus Garvey, Sojourner Truth, Harriet Tubman, Mary McLeod Bethune, Madam C.J. Walker and so many others who even though history has forgotten, their names are recorded in your Book of Life,” he said. “They were not ashamed to put their lives on the line for freedom and progression.”

Col. Robert Arnold, 14th MP Brigade

commander, introduced the guest speaker, Chief Warrant Officer 4 Phillip Brashear.

Brashear serves as the command chief war-rant officer for the 80th Training Command in Virginia, and previously piloted Blackhawk and Chinook helicopters for the Army.

He is the third son of Master Chief Petty Of-ficer Carl Brashear, who grew up in poverty and went on to become the first African-American diver in the U.S. Navy; he later faced more adver-sity after losing a limb, but continued diving. He was the subject of the movie, “Men of Honor.”

“My father overcame hurdles ... that he had to deal with in his career that still affect every country in the world today,” he said. “(He) had to deal with racism, he had to deal with poverty, he had to deal with literacy, later on in my father’s career, he had to deal with his physical disability.”

Brashear said even after his father’s death, he continued learning life lessons from him. He said because his father could overcome so many challenges, no one should make excuses for their own life.

“No matter what you go through, no matter how bad you got it, stop giving up,” Brashear said. “That poor sharecropper’s son from Ken-tucky definitely made his mark on this world.”

myguidon.com

Thursday, February 20, 2020Section A, Page 6 GUIDON

UP FRONT

Pet of the weekDunkin is a 3-year-

old labrador mix. He is up-to-date on vaccina-tions, neutered and avail-able for adoption from the Waynesville Animal Shelter.

The Fort Leonard Wood Animal Shelter is closed temporarily. Post patrons are invited to visit the Waynesville facility to adopt dogs and cats.

Adoption fees for dogs are $90 and cats are $75, which include vaccina-tions and spay or neuter. Microchipping is avail-able for $20.

For more information on adopting any of the other available animals, contact the shelter at 573.855.2488.

The Fort Leonard Wood Animal Shelter is operated by the city of Waynesville and works in conjunction with the Waynesville An-imal Shelter.

Photos can be found at www.facebook.com/waynesville.shelter.

Pulaski Young Marines Raiders are accept-ing registrations for the next recruit train-ing session Friday to Sunday. For details, contact Steve Nutter at flwyoungmarines@gmail.com or 573.528.4479.

Fort Wood Community Spouses Club basket auction, 5:30 p.m. Feb. 29 at Nutter Field House. Admission is $25 in advance, and is available online at FWCSC.org. Ad-mission is $30 at the door. For details, email BasketAuctionFWCSC@gmail.com.

American Red Cross blood drive, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 6 in the Bloodmobile at the Main Post Exchange. To schedule an ap-pointment, call 800.733.2767 or visit red crossblood.org and enter “FTWOODPX.”

Chapel Watch Care applications now being accepted. The Religious Support Office is looking to fill positions to help with child care at the chapels on Sunday and Tuesday mornings and Wednesday evenings. For details, call RSO at 573.596.2127.

AER scholarship applications now being ac-cepted through May 1. The Army Emergen-cy Relief scholarship program is accepting applications for the 2020-21 academic year. The Maj. Gen. James Ursana Scholarship is for full-time students who are dependent children of active-duty, retired or deceased Soldiers. The AER Spouse Scholarship is for spouses of active-duty and retired Soldiers, and widows of Soldiers who died either on active duty or as retirees. For more information, visit www.aerhq.org.

Air Force Aid Society’s General Henry “Hap” Arnold Education Grant applica-tions are open now through April 30 for the 2020-21 academic year. Eligible recipients include dependent children of Air Force members currently on active duty (including Title 10 reservists and Title 32 guard), in retired status or de-ceased, spouses of active-duty members and surviving spouses of active or retired members. A minimum of 10 scholarships are awarded annually. For more

information, visit www.afas.org.

GLWACH Town Halls, 1 p.m. the second Monday of every month in the General Leonard Wood Army Community Hospital’s Medical Department Activity classroom.

Army Community Service Music Group for Children with Autism, 5:30 p.m. Mondays at ACS. This program is for children and parents to learn social and communica-tion skills through music. For details, call 573.596.0212.

Combat Vet Support Group, 9 to 10:30 a.m., every second and fourth Thursday of the month at Crocker Presbyterian Church, 414 North Commercial Street in Crocker. For details, call 573.814.6206 or visit www.vetcenter.va.gov.

Civil Air Patrol, 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesdays in Bldg. 1288. Anyone 12 to 18 years old can join. For details, email michelle.spurgeon@mow gcap.org or call 573.528.6967.

COMMUNITY EVENTS & BRIEFS

Fort Leonard Wood celebrates Black History Month

SFL-TAP career fair offers transition opportunitiesSpecial to GUIDON

The Fort Leonard Wood Soldier for Life - Transition Assistance Program will hold a career fair from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 27 at Nutter Field House.

SFL-TAP prepares employment and edu-cation workshops that assist transitioning service members and spouses in obtaining meaningful civilian employment and educa-tion opportunities.

This event will serve as a chance to con-nect transitioning service members, veter-ans and their family members to employers who want to meet, talk with and hire them for job opportunities.

“Job seekers will have an opportunity to market their skills, including networking with numerous employers for a variety of jobs at one venue,” said Alfredia Williams, a transition services specialist. “Attend just one, and see that this is the best way to get a foot in the door. Every booth provides a new opportunity for you to make eye con-tact, shake hands.”

The career fair is open to active-duty service members, retirees, veterans, family members, contractors and anyone else who is interested in employment or education opportunities. About 50 employers, both

local and national, are scheduled to attend the event. Participants can expect employ-ers from the fields of health care, retail, state government and law enforcement.

Those seeking employment openings should come to the event prepared to inter-view, in professional dress attire and with copies of their resume for employers they are interested in. It is imperative that job seekers make sure their resume is correct, updated and in a professional format.

Job seekers’ goal should be a face-to-face

interview during the career fair, or a tel-ephonic interview scheduled at a later date. Job seekers should also aim to leave the event with a tentative job offer or follow-on interview. This is an opportunity to provide a lasting, positive first impression with the participating employers. SFL-TAP is designed to help Soldiers prepare for the civilian employment, which includes net-working with employers.

Retirees can enroll with the program 24 months prior to separation, while others can begin 18 months out or immediately upon notification.

Leaders who have service members who will be separating from active duty within two years should make every attempt to allow them to attend this event. Networking opportunities are vital to their success and will provide them great job opportunities prior to transitioning from service, Wil-liams said.

For more information, or for assistance with developing resumes, contact the Fort Leonard Wood SFL-TAP Center at 573.596.0175 or visit www.facebook.com/sfltap.flw.

(Editor’s note: This article was submitted to the GUIDON by the Soldier For Life - Transition Assistance Program office.)

Photo courtesy of Waynesville Shelter

Citlali Arzabala performs a solo with the Waynesville Middle School Choir during the Black History Month event.

Students perform at WHS poetry slamBy Sgt. Logan ThomasGUIDON staff

Students of all ages gath-ered to present poetry and art-work they created at the first ever Waynesville R-VI Youth Poetry and Art Slam, Feb. 12, at Waynesville High School’s ninth-grade lecture hall.

Sixty-four students were featured at the event, which had an audience of nearly 150 people. Friends, families and local residents were all encouraged to attend.

“It’s always great to have a lot more people than you expect to show up,” said Brian Henry, Waynesville R-VI School District superinten-dent. “We had the room set up like it was a faculty meeting, and then, the next thing you know, we were bringing in extra chairs. That is always great whenever we have any event involving parents but even better to celebrate a real core asset of our district like diversity.”

The theme of the event this year was diversity.

“To our knowledge, this is the first event that will gather our students of all ages — from elementary to high school — together in one place to celebrate our district’s diversity through the spoken word and artwork,” said Eliza-beth Washington, chair of the Waynesville R-VI’s Diversity Committee.

The Diversity Committee of the Waynesville R-VI School District began planning this event in the fall of 2019 when students were asked to answer questions about what diversity means to them. Students cre-ated artwork, essays and po-etry on the topic, and winners were selected to be featured at the poetry slam and in a

24-page, color publication, “Celebration of Diversity 2020.”

“We will print extra copies of the ‘Celebration of Diver-sity’ publication so we can share it with our community,” Henry said. “We want local residents to have an opportu-nity to view the publication in local waiting rooms and area businesses, and for visitors to our community to see that diversity is a strength of our district.”

Copies of the publication were distributed at the event, and will be available for free at the Waynesville R-VI Ad-ministration Building through Feb. 28, while supplies last.

The school district plans to make the poetry and art slam an annual event.

“We definitely want to see this become an annual event, and it looks like we are going to have to put it in a bigger setting,” Henry said. “Our diversity team has worked on various activities like the Tiger Festival of Nations that we do in the fall and the winter. We added this event this year because we wanted to do a publication to distribute (it) throughout the community. It gives us a great opportunity to let our kids write and look at their art and celebrate the theme of diversity.”

After the final presenta-tion, the students gathered on stage for a photograph with their certificates.

“Tonight is a special night to display the culture of our district. In all honesty, the best way to do that is not through us educators but through our students,” said Joe Haynes, Waynesville High School varsity football head coach.

Photo by Heather Kline

A Soldier discusses job opportunities with em-ployers at a previous SFL-TAP career fair.