FORT RUCKER, Ala. (November 21, 2013) -- The holiday season is afoot and everything from Christmas music to fall wreaths are beginning to make appearances, and following tradition, different programs on post are hosting activities to spread good tidings.
"We have a diverse community and we always want to offer something everyone can enjoy. Whether you're civilian or military, single Soldier or Family, you will be able to find something to do with the many fun activities planned for this Thanksgiving season," said Janice Erdlitz, Directorate of Family, Morale, Welfare and Recreation.
The Landing will be setting a table just for "you," so, if going away for the holiday is not in the works, or if cooking and cleaning the mess do not appeal to your tastes, The Landing will be hosting its annual Thanksgiving Feast from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thanksgiving day.
The feast is a "true Family affair," and a special military-Family rate is available, said Erdlitz.
The Family rate is $39.50 for two adults and up to two children, ages 12 and younger. Regular price is $16.95 for adults, $6.95 for children ages 6-12 and $3.95 for children ages 3-5. For more information, call 598-2426.
The meal is buffet style, featuring Thanksgiving favorites like mashed potatoes and ham. Reservations are recommended, and people are more than welcome to come dressed in their Sunday best or Tuesday casual, said Tim Carter, The Landing Zone programs manager.
"It has everything Families are looking for in a Thanksgiving meal. We have several meats and an assortment of desserts," said Carter. "It is an opportunity for a Family to gather together and celebrate Thanksgiving as a military Family and be proud of that."
The installation dining facility will host a special Thanksgiving meal Nov. 28 in Bldg. 5914 from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Meal card holders eat free, but a special price of $7.60 will be offered for Soldiers on separate rations, Family members, retirees and civilians.
"Thanksgiving is the biggest day of the year from the meal preparation and serving to decorations and displays -- making the meal a special one for Soldiers," said Catherine Holmes, food program manager. "Soldiers can still have the traditional Thanksgiving Day meal with their friends and fellow Soldiers."
The DFAC will have a special two-meat option during the meal. People can choose between roast turkey, shrimp cocktail, prime rib and baked salmon. Specialty sides for the meal include cornbread dressing, sweet potato casserole and eggnog.
"Every year we want to make the Thanksgiving Day meal one to remember for the Soldiers and try to provide everything they would have if they were at home," said Holmes. "The Soldiers deserve no less, and we are thankful for their service in supporting the warfighter."
If loading up on calories is something that you're worried about, then prepare for the turkey "coma" by getting your swing on at the Silver Wings Golf Course.
The Turkey Shootout Tournament will be held Nov. 23. Tee-time is between 7-9 a.m. and the registration fee is $20 plus cart and green fees. The formats for the tournament can be individual stroke play or U.S. Golf Association handicap, or weekend dogfight points can be used. Turkeys and gift certificates will be given to gross and net winners.
"This is a great way for people to get a free turkey. They don't have to fight the crowds," said Rachel Adler, SWGC admin assistant. "It is also the perfect way to de-stress before the holiday shopping begins, or before Families come in from out of town or you go out of town."
Another way to celebrate the holiday without eating one's weight in dressing is to participate in this year's Turkey Trot -- 5K, 10K and one-mile runs.
The Turkey Trot will take place Nov. 23 at 9 a.m. Race day registration ends at 8:40 a.m. and cost is $25. All of the races begin and end at the Fort Rucker Physical Fitness Center on Andrews Avenue.
"The Academy gift certificate drawings of $25, $50 and $75 will be drawn after the race for all entrants," said Lynn Avila Fitness programs coordinator, saying that the races are a great way to kick start the fall.
"It is a great way to check yourself physically and to get out before the shopping season," she continued. "It is also an economical way to stay in shape for the entire Family because it is a Family affair. Kids are free to run and all the children receive a medal."
Avila said the course is fairly flat and straight.
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