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2024 Air Show Schedule Updates

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USN Blue Angels

The United States Navy Blue Angels, renowned worldwide for their precision and aerial acrobatics, represent the pinnacle of aviation excellence and patriotism. With their signature blue and gold F/A-18 Hornets streaking across the sky in perfect formation, the Blue Angels captivate audiences of all ages, inspiring awe and admiration with each daring maneuver. Since their inception in 1946, the Blue Angels have remained steadfast in their mission to showcase the skill, professionalism, and dedication of Naval aviators while serving as ambassadors of the United States Navy and Marine Corps. With a history spanning decades, the Blue Angels continue to thrill spectators and honor the proud tradition of naval aviation through their extraordinary performances at airshows and events nationwide.

Blue Angels Show Schedule

June 1-2: Terre Haute, IN

June 8-9: Chesterfield, MO

June 15-16: La Crosse, WI

June 22-23: Dayton, OH

June 29-30: Traverse City, MI

July 6-7: Johnson City, NY

July 13: Pensacola Beach, FL

July 27-28: Fargo, ND

August 3-4: Seattle, WA

August 10-11: Chicago, IL

August 1217-18: Colorado Springs, CO

August 24-25: Wichita, KS

August 31: Cleveland, OH

September 1-2: Cleveland, OH

September 14-15: Owensboro, KY

September 21-22: NAS Oceana, VA

September 28-29: MCAS Miramar, CA

October 5-6: Reno, NV

October 12-13: San Francisco, CA

October 19-20  Jacksonville Beach, Florida

October 26-27: Houston, TX

November 1-2: Pensacola, FL

USAF Thunderbirds

Since their formation in 1953, the Thunderbirds have captivated audiences worldwide with their breathtaking aerobatic maneuvers and precision formations, showcasing the unparalleled capabilities of the United States Air Force. As ambassadors of airpower, the Thunderbirds embody the spirit of excellence, teamwork, and innovation, inspiring audiences young and old as they demonstrate the strength and precision of America’s aerial forces at airshows and events across the globe.

Thunderbirds Show Schedule

June 2: Holloman AFB, NM
June 8-9: Selfridge ANGB, MI

June 14-16: Columbus, OH

June 29-30: Hill AFB, UT

July 4, 6-7: Battle Creek, MI

July 13-14: Mather, CA

July 20-21: JB Elmdendorf-Richardson, AK

July 24: Cheyenne, WY

July 27-28: Milwaukee, WI

August 3-4: Brunswick, ME

August 10-11: New Windsor, NY

August 24-25: Offutt AFB, NE

August 31 – September 2: McMinnville, OR

September 7-8: Gatineau, QC, Canada

September 14-15: St. Joseph, MO

September 21-22: Columbus AFB, MS

September 28-29: Salinas, CA

October 5-6: Huntington Beach, CA

October 12-14: Topeka, KA

October 26-27: Peachtree City, GA

November 1-2: Pensacola, FL

A special treat this year is that the USAF Thunderbirds will join the Blue Angels at the Blue Angels Homecoming show in November at NAS Pensacola. It is rare to see both of these aerial powerhouses at the same show, and it is sure to provide amazing entertainment.

Which show will you see this year?

Pre-K Coming to DODEA Schools this Fall

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DODEA announced last spring the addition of full-day Pre-K starting for the 2024-2025 school year. This fall, the introduction of Pre-K programs in Department of Defense Education Activity (DODEA) schools marks a significant milestone in the education system for military families. This expansion reflects a growing recognition of the importance of early childhood education and aims to provide military-connected children with access to high-quality educational opportunities from an early age.

One key benefit of introducing Pre-K programs in DODEA schools is the opportunity to support young learners’ social, emotional, and cognitive development. Research consistently demonstrates that early childhood education is crucial in laying the foundation for future academic success and overall well-being. By offering Pre-K programs, DODEA schools can help children develop essential skills such as language, literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking in a supportive and nurturing environment.

Moreover, introducing Pre-K programs in DODEA schools aligns with broader efforts to support military families and address their unique challenges. Military families often experience frequent relocations, deployments, and other stressors that can disrupt children’s educational experiences. By providing Pre-K programs on military installations, DODEA schools can help mitigate the impact of these challenges by offering stability, continuity, and consistency in early childhood education.

Additionally, the availability of Pre-K programs in DODEA schools can enhance the overall educational experience for military-connected children and their families. By starting their educational journey in a familiar and supportive environment, children can develop a sense of belonging and community, positively impacting their academic performance, social relationships, and overall well-being. Furthermore, Pre-K programs can serve as a valuable resource for military families, providing access to early intervention services, special education support, and other resources to meet the diverse needs of young learners.

The implementation of Pre-K has a three-phase implementation plan. Phase I includes installations with available appropriate facilities, while Phase II locations require minor facility adjustments (bathrooms, playgrounds, etc.). Schools identified for Phase III will need more extensive modifications or construction to support expanding PK classrooms. The phases ensure that all schools in the DODEA system are ready for an universal roll out of Pre-K in the fall of 24-25 school year.

The introduction of Pre-K programs in DODEA schools this fall represents a significant step forward in supporting the educational needs of military-connected children. DODEA schools can help ensure that all children can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally, regardless of their family’s military status or circumstances by prioritizing early childhood education and providing access to high-quality Pre-K programs.

Ten Blueberry Recipes to Try This Summer

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Blueberry season is almost here. It’s time to pull out your favorite blueberry recipes in preparation for either picking with your family or friends or finding more affordable blueberries in the grocery store. Stretch those beautiful blueberries with these delicious and versatile recipes.

Here are ten mouthwatering blueberry recipes to enjoy as berry season approaches:

  1. Blueberry Oat Muffins: Start your day right with homemade blueberry muffins. These fluffy, tender treats bursting with juicy blueberries are a classic favorite for breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup of milk
  • 1 cup of rolled oats
  • 1 cup of flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • ½ cup maple syrup
  • 1 large egg, at room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries

Instructions:

Combine milk and oats and let sit for 20 minutes. Preheat oven to 425 °F. Line muffin pan with cupcake liners. In one bowl combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon and salt. In a separate bowl, mix the butter, syrup, egg and vanilla together. This wet mixture may gel together. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, and mix together. Then add oat-milk mixture, stirring until just combined. Spoon mixture into the lined muffin pan. Cook for 5 minutes at 425 °F and then lower to 350°F for 10-15 minutes. Check the muffins before removing from the oven to ensure they are fully baked.

  • Blueberry Pancakes: You can’t go wrong with a classic pancake. Upgrade your pancake game by adding fresh blueberries to the batter. Want the ultimate indulgence? Sprinkle with powdered sugar or top with maple syrup.
  • Blueberry Smoothie: Blend together blueberries, yogurt, banana, and a splash of milk for a refreshing and nutritious smoothie. It’s the perfect way to start your day or refuel after a hot day.
  • Blueberry Crumble: Whip up a comforting blueberry crumble for dessert. It’s pure bliss served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Ingredients:

Filing:

  • 6 cups of blueberries, fresh or frozen
  • 2 TBL sugar
  • 2 TBL flour
  • 2 TBL lemon juice
  • Pinch of salt

Crumble:

  • 3/4 cup  flour
  • ¾ cup oats
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup melted butter
  • Sprinkle of salt

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 375 °F. Mix the filling ingredients together. Place berry mixture on the bottom of a buttered 2 quart baking dish. Combine flour, oats, sugar and salt. Then add butter until the flour-oat combination is moistened. Sprinkle crumble ingredient on top of blueberries. Bake until juices thicken, about 25 minutes. Cool for 10 minutes before serving.

  • Blueberry Lemon Scones: These make a wonderful addition to an afternoon tea time or coffee, or for a delicious desert.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups flour
  • 2 ½ tsp baking powder
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 6 TBL butter, softened
  • 1 TBL lemon zet
  • ½ cup cold milk
  • ¼ cup lemon curd, or more if you enjoy a more lemony scone
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries

Instructions:

  • Preheat oven to 375 °F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Combine flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Use pastry blender to add softened butter. Combine until the mixture resemble crumbles. In a small bowl, combine milk, egg and lemon curd. Make a well in the dry ingredients and pour in the wet ingredients. Mix ingredients together until just combined. Gently fold in blueberries. Place dough onto a floured work surface and shape into scones, or into a circle and cut into 8 pieces. Transfer each piece onto the parchment lined cookie sheet and brush stop with milk. Bake for 8 minutes, then reduce temperature to 350 °F and bake for 12 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
  • Blueberry Salad: Combine fresh blueberries with mixed greens, goat cheese, toasted pecans, and a balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing and vibrant salad bursting with flavor and texture.
  • Blueberry BBQ Sauce:  Want to add spring and summer flavors to your favorite grilling sauce? Try blueberry BBQ sauce. Simmer blueberries with your favorite BBQ spices, vinegar, and honey for a sweet and tangy sauce perfect for slathering on grilled chicken, ribs, or even tofu.
  • Blueberry Overnight Oats: Prepare a batch of overnight oats by soaking rolled oats in milk or yogurt with a handful of fresh blueberries, chia seeds, and a drizzle of honey. Place individual servings into mason jars and place in the fridge. In the morning, breakfast is ready to enjoy!
  • Blueberry Goat Cheese Crostini: Spread creamy goat cheese on toasted baguette slices and top with fresh blueberries. Add a drizzle of honey or balsamic, and a sprinkle of chopped thyme for an elegant, easy and irresistible appetizer.
  • Blueberry Ice Cream:. Boil equal parts water, sugar, blueberry on the stovetop to make a simple syrup. Then add the blueberry sauce to your favorite creamy vanilla base. It’s the perfect cool and creamy treat to enjoy on a warm summer day.

Kid-Friendly Packout Playlist

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If it’s your turn to pack up and move this summer, it’s time to bust out some tunes to help you get organized. Get your kids involved with this playlist to help them assist this summer, all without worrying about what song will pop up next.  Bonus that this playlist works for purging, packing and the actual road trip!

  1. Happy” by Pharrell Williams—It’s hard to be upset while listening to this song, and the beat keeps everyone in the groove of purging or packing or whatever is on your PCS list.
  2. “Better Place” by NSYNC is a happy, melodious tune for both parents and kids.
  3. “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift – Another emotional one – shake off those emotions, shake off the extra stuff, and get to packing!
  4. “Brave” by Sara Bareilles – Every military kid, and parent, are brave as they embark on their new adventure, and the moving prep is part of it.
  5. “Roar” by Katy Perry – With lyrics like “I got the eye of the tiger, a fighter, Dancing through the fire,” how can you not roar while packing?
  6. “Let It Go” by Idina Menzel (from Frozen)—If this isn’t every parent’s mantra as they go through the pre-PCS purge, I don’t know what is.
  7. “Firework” by Katy Perry – Inspiring everyone to ignite the light in them, and quite honestly ignite any inspiration to pack.
  8. “Dynamite” by Taio Cruz – Who doesn’t throw their hands up in the air sometimes, especially when packing? Dance, sing and rock to this one while prepping.
  9. “I Gotta Feeling” by The Black Eyed Peas – It’s a song with a good rhythm, and that helps with motivation.
  10. “Shut Up and Dance” by Walk the Moon – Another feel-good song,
  11. “I Like to Move It” by Reel 2 Real ft. The Mad Stuntman – Channel King Julian with this jam.
  12. “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and the Waves – How can you not smile and dance while singing this song?
  13. “Count on Me” by Bruno Mars – The perfect song for the kid preparing to pack and up and move- they may feel stuck in the middle of the sea, but with their family they are never along with the move process.
  14. “Everything Is Awesome!!!” by Tegan and Sara ft. The Lonely Island (from The Lego Movie) – If you are going to add LEGO songs to your list, you should also probably add “This Song is Gonna Get Stuck Inside Your Head,” “Not Evil,” and “Everything’s Not Awesome” to round out the LEGO songs and emotional kaleidoscope that packing and moving present.
  15. “Rainbow Connection” by Kermit the Frog – You cannot go wrong with anything sung by the green frog.
  16. “Under the Sea” by Samuel E. Wright (from The Little Mermaid) – How can you not belt out this song.
  17. “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” by Randy Newman (from Toy Story) – Anything Toy Story may bring tears in the parents, but this is a classic song.
  18. “Hakuna Matata” by Nathan Lane & Ernie Sabella (from The Lion King) – A great way to wrap up the playlist – you’ve got no troubles when you listen to this fun song!

These songs are sure to get kids moving and grooving, and the adults can jam out as well all while preparing for the PCS.

Army Adopts New Recruiting Partnership

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The Army announced its partnership with the United Football League last month. This move is a step forward for the Army, which hopes to increase recruitment.

The United Football League, or UFL, formed from a merger of the United States Football League and the XFL. Separate from the National Football League, NFL, the UFL has eight teams in its inaugural season. As part of the partnership, the Army logo will be featured on jerseys and in stadium ads. By partnering with the UFL, the Army gains access to a platform that enables them to engage with a demographic that aligns closely with their target audience. Football games draw large crowds, both in-person and through televised broadcasts, providing the Army with significant visibility and exposure. This partnership allows the Army to reach potential recruits in a context where they are already passionate and engaged.

Through this partnership, the Army aims to leverage football’s influence to inspire young adults to consider a career in the military. There are parallels between the football world and the military community: commitment, physical fitness, teamwork, collaboration, leadership, strategy, preparation, and vision. The Army hopes to attract individuals who possess the qualities necessary to excel as soldiers.

The Army’s goal is to bring in 55,000 new recruits in 2024. Army Secretary Christine Wormuth said in a congressional hearing “I think we feel that we have a good shot at making that goal this year.” Due to several factors, the military service branches have fallen short on recruitment in previous years. In addition to the UFL campaign, the Army has implemented soldier prep courses to help new recruits meet standards and focus on innovation. Time will tell if the shift in recruitment efforts impacts recruitment goals.

Overall, this partnership is strategic approach to recruiting that capitalizes on the widespread appeal of football to engage with potential recruits and promote the opportunities available through military service. It also aligns with the findings of the RAND study on the Army’s recruitment spending – most funding is in digital advertising, which makes sense since it reaches the largest group and can make the largest impact.  Will Gen Z want to join the Army? Will the recruitment efforts pay off? The goal of 55,000 is set.

Pharmacies Operating After Cyberattack

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In February, a significant cyberattack rattled health networks across various regions. The attack targeted healthcare organizations, exploiting vulnerabilities in their digital infrastructure and disrupting essential services. As a result, hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities faced disruptions in their operations, including delays in patient care, cancellation of appointments, and difficulties in accessing medical records. The cyberattack was on the nation’s largest commercial prescription processor, Change Healthcare (CHC). Military pharmacies were included in this impact.

When the cyberattack occurred, CHC disconnected its systems as part of a safety mechanism. Affected pharmacies moved to other means to calculate dosage, track prescriptions, and ensure safe prescriptions were provided. As of April 2nd, the system is back to full operational status and military pharmacies have returned to standard operations.

The incident underscored the importance of investing in cybersecurity infrastructure, implementing encryption technologies, and enhancing employee training to mitigate the risks of future cyberattacks, especially in the realm of healthcare where personal information is stored electronically. Electronic medical records allow for seamless access across healthcare networks, which is especially helpful for military members and their families seeking are at various Military Treatment Facilities, or MTFs, around the world. Prescriptions are electronic to allow for ease of filling. Some medications, like controlled substances, are required to be sent electronically, with exceptions made for outages like what happened with the cyberattack.

After the cyberattack, healthcare organizations faced the daunting task of restoring normal operations and rebuilding trust among patients and stakeholders. The process of returning to normalcy involved several key steps and challenges, each requiring careful planning, coordination, and execution.

Ultimately, the return to normal operations after a cyberattack required a comprehensive and coordinated effort involving all levels of the organization, from frontline staff to senior leadership. By implementing robust cybersecurity measures, enhancing incident response capabilities, and fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness, healthcare organizations could mitigate the impact of future cyber threats and safeguard the integrity and confidentiality of patient data.

The repercussions of the cyberattack extended beyond immediate disruptions, reverberating throughout the healthcare industry and prompting calls for greater vigilance and preparedness. Healthcare providers were urged to strengthen their cybersecurity posture, collaborate with cybersecurity experts, and remain vigilant against emerging cyber threats. Additionally, policymakers and regulatory bodies were prompted to reevaluate cybersecurity standards and regulations to better protect healthcare systems and patient data from malicious cyber activity.

A return to normal operations is excellent, coupled with continuous monitoring and threat intelligence to aid in swift responses to potential security incidents and minimize the risk of further disruption.

Did you have to file a pharmacy claim? You can learn more about pharmacy claims. Or you can contact Express Scripts.
 
Do you have questions about filling your prescriptions? You can contact your local military pharmacy or TRICARE retail network pharmacy.
 
Want to learn more? You can visit TRICARE prescription drug coverage and pharmacy options.

Blue Star Museums Program with the National Endowment for the Arts

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Summertime is a period looked forward to by school-age children across the country. For some lucky military children, it will also mean moving to explore a new location and an opportunity to check out some new museums along the way. Thanks to the Blue Star Museums program, military children can explore these new places for free.

The Blue Star Museums program is a joint initiative with Blue Star Families and the National Endowment for the Arts. In collaboration with the Department of Defense and museums across America, it offers free admission to the nation’s active-duty military personnel and their families, including the National Guard and Reserve. 

The 2024 Blue Star Museums program begins on Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 18, 2024, and ends on Labor Day, Monday, September 2, 2024. While the museum list grows throughout the summer as museums apply to participate, the 2024 Map is available online for planning purposes. There are a variety of museums to choose from across the country—here are some favorites.

The San Diego Automotive Museum

This museum will be a hit with anyone in your family who enjoys cars or history, showcasing a diverse collection of vintage and classic automobiles. Located in historic Balboa park, the museum offers fascinating journey through the evolution of automotive design, technology, and culture. For example, did you know there was a car that you could change a tire while it was operating? Interested in motorcycles? What about inspecting cars heralding the Downton Abbey era? This museum has it all!

Stafford Air and Space Museum

Located in Weatherford, Oklahoma, the museum is a captivating destination that celebrates the history and innovation of aviation and space exploration. Named after astronaut and Weatherford native Lt. General Thomas P. Stafford, the museum features a remarkable collection of aircraft, spacecraft, artifacts, and interactive exhibits. Visitors can explore displays showcasing the achievements of pioneers in aviation and space travel, including the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo programs. Kids of all ages can sit in aircraft, pulling levers and pushing buttons pretending fly.  The kids room allows for safe exploration and learning through dress up and imaginative play. The Stafford Air and Space Museum is a must-visit destination for enthusiasts of all ages.

The Washington Heritage Museums

The Washington Heritage Museums include five locations in Fredericksburg, Virginia: the Mary Washington House, the Rising Sun Tavern, Hugh Mercer Apothecary, St. James’ House and the Mary Washington Monument. The Washington Heritage Museums offer a captivating journey through America’s past that is not to be missed. The Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop features talks on the medical practices of the 18th century. Explore the childhood home of George Washington’s mother at the Mary Washington House or learn about the 18th century hospitality at the Rising Sun Tavern. These museums highlight the colonial history that shaped the founding of our country.


The Abraham Lincoln Library and Museum

Housed at Lincoln Memorial University in Tennessee, The Abraham Lincoln Library and Museum features one of the largest private collections of memorabilia on Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War.  Check out the original Emancipation Proclamation, one of only five surviving copies signed by Lincoln, original manuscripts and rare photographs. Whether you’re a history buff, a student of politics, or simply curious about Lincoln’s enduring legacy, a visit to this museum is sure to be both informative and inspiring.

KidsQuest Children’s Museum

In Bellevue, Washington, this children’s museum features over 20 hands-on exhibits to engage children ages toddler to older age. From the water play area in the Water Gallery to the outdoor garden to the ThinkTank area, to the Bellevue Mercantile, where they can role-play as shopkeepers and customers in a mini-marketplace, children will love exploring this museum all while learning (and don’t even know it!)

From history museums, to learning about space to cars to children’s museums – the Blue Star Museums program has it all! Which museum do you recommend? Which one are looking forward to checking out this year?

Top 10 Reasons to Shop at the Sidewalk Sale

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Shopping at the Sidewalk Sale at the commissary is an exciting event that offers numerous benefits for shoppers. Here are the top 10 reasons why you should make it a priority to shop at the Sidewalk Sale this year.

  1. Unbeatable Deals: Shoppers can expect to find incredible discounts and markdowns on a wide range of merchandise, allowing shoppers to score deep discounts on their favorite products. With prices slashed significantly, the Sidewalk Sale presents an opportunity to score great deals on high-quality items, and sometimes even in bulk-sizing, providing a great opportunity to save.
  2. Variety of Products: Whether you’re shopping for your usual grocery items or just checking out the sale to see what is available, there is a variety of items on sale. From canned goods to paper products to summer finds like popsicles and sports drinks to support hydration in the summer months, there are many different item types on offer.
  3. Unique Finds: If you stick to your usual items, you may not have noticed unique items or brands specific to your commissary location. Those in Japan may have local treats on offer. Check your local commissary for items that are traditionally available in the International Foods aisle.
  4. Convenient Location: The Sidewalk Sale is often held right outside the commissary, making it convenient for shoppers to browse the sale items before or after their usual grocery shopping.
  5. Family-Friendly Environment: The Sidewalk Sale is a family-friendly event with activities and entertainment for all ages, making it a fun outing for the whole family. Each sidewalk sale is different per location, but in the past there were bouncy houses, games to play for opportunities for prizes and giveaways of free items.
  6. Opportunity to Discover New Products: Numerous vendors showcase their products at the Sidewalk Sale, giving shoppers the chance to discover new and innovative items that they may not have encountered before.
  7. Community Support: Money spent at the commissary, stays within the community. Shopping at the sidewalk sale directly contributes to programs and services that benefit service members and their loved ones.
  8. Stock-Up: If you aren’t PCSing this summer, the sidewalk sale is a great time to stock up on goods like paper towels, toilet paper and boxed or canned goods for the summer and fall months. Look for coupons taped to items to double the deal. This is great for units to buy in bulk in preparation for unit events as well.
  9. Seasonal Specials: Depending on the time of year, the Sidewalk Sale may coincide with seasonal holidays or events, offering shoppers the chance to find themed merchandise and seasonal specials. Ready to gather up a box of popsicles to entertain the masses of neighborhood kids or need some extra snacks for summer sports travel season? The Sidewalk Sale has you covered.
  10. No sales tax. Not specific to the sidewalk sale, your commissary is always tax-free.

Check out when your local commissary will hold its sidewalk sale by checking out your local commissary page or watch for in-store advertisements and announcements.

Military Appreciation Month Discounts

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May is Military Appreciation Month. With three federally recognized holidays featuring the military, Armed Forces Day, Memorial Day and Military Spouse Appreciation Day, it is not surprising that the month is designated as Military Appreciation Month. Do not feel one ounce of guilt asking if there is a military discount that your family can take advantage of this month. As a business owner once reminded me, she wouldn’t offer the discount if she didn’t want it used. Here are some discounts specific for the month of May.

Blue Star Museums is back this year to kick off military appreciation month and runs from Armed Forces Day to Labor Day. This program is a collaboration between the National Endowment for the Arts, the DOD, and Blue Star Families. It offers free admission to participating museums across the United States to active-duty personnel, National Guard and their families. While this kicks off in May, it runs for the whole of the summer – be sure to check off some new-to you or old favorites this summer.

Where to Adventure

If you are looking to adventure in your local area, check to see if there is a discount offered on Armed Forces Day or on Memorial Day.

Don’t forget about the free annual pass America the Beautiful Pass from the National Parks to explore the National Parks across the United States.

Busch Gardens is offering Veterans a free one-day ticket with up to three guests to its parks located in Williamsburg and Tampa. This offer is valid until July 7th, 2024 and is activated through www.WavesofHonor.com. Active-duty can get up to four free tickets for themselves and immediate family members until the end of the year.

The Cincinnati Zoo is offering free admission on Memorial Day to the active-duty service member with up to six half-price admission tickets for the family members.

California’s Great America offers discounted admission active or retired military members with a ticket deal for up to six additional tickets for friends or family.

Colonial Williamsburg offers complimentary admission to active-duty military, reservists, National Guard, retired military personnel and veterans and up to three direct dependents on Memorial Day Weekend.

The Indianapolis Zoo is offering free admission to current and former military members on Memorial Day, and a $2 discount off admission to non-military family members.

SeaWorld is offering Veterans a free one-day ticket with up to three guests to its parks located in Williamsburg, Orlando and San Antonio. This offer is valid from May 12th, 2024  to July 7th, 2024 and is activated through www.WavesofHonor.com.

Worlds of Fun is offering a ticket deal on their website..

Where to Shop

Apple offers a 10% discount off their products throughout the year to active-duty military through their online verification.

If you are in need of a new cell phone plan, AT&T offers a 25% discount off their wireless plan to military and veteran families, T-Mobile offers discounts to active duty and veteran families off their wireless plans, and Verizon offers a discount on their wireless plans with a discount varying based on plan type.

Rack Room Shoes is offering a 20% discount on the entire in-store purchase on Memorial Day.

Looking for a new mattress? Sleep Numberoffers EXTRA 5% to 10% discount on smart beds & bases.

Don’t forget about Home Depot and Lowe’s as you prepare your home and garden for the summer season. Both stores offer a 10% discount year-round.

Where to Eat

Mission BBQ is offering a free sandwich to all active-duty service members and veterans during Armed Forces Week, each day is designated for the branch of service. Sign up for their email alerts to learn which day.

Is there a military discount or freebie you have found for month of the military appreciation? Let us know!

Start Thinking Ahead Before Hurricane Season Hits

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Okinawa, Japan, has its typhoons. California has its earthquakes. Twisters usually stick within tornado alley. The east coast has hurricane season. For each location and natural phenomenon type, there is a different type of preparedness. If you are relocating to the hurricane zone, you are new to this preparation. Don’t be left behind or left scrambling to prepare at the last minute – be prepared as soon as possible for hurricane season.

Hurricane season begins on May 15th in the North Pacific and begins June 1st in the Atlantic and Caribbean. The storm season lasts until November 30th.

Plan

If you are moving to one of the hurricane zones, once you know where you are living, it is time to prepare for the storms to arrive. If you wait until a storm is announced, you may be too late to find the materials or supplies you need.

Boards for Windows – this can be in the form of storm shutters on the home you can close or plywood to cover the windows. Do NOT wait until a storm is on its way to purchase these. If you do, there may not be any plywood left.

Emergency List – know which emergency numbers you need to call in the event of an emergency in your area. This goes beyond 911. If there is a flooding or power outage in your home, know where these need to be reported to.

Emergency Supply Kit – This kit is meant to provide care to every member of the family to survive for several days after a natural disaster. Ready.gov has a build-a-kit downloadable list to make your own kit. The basics are one gallon of water per person for several days, food for several days for each family member, battery-powered radio and flashlight, first aid kit, extra batteries, whistle, masks for potential dust, plastic sheeting, and duct tape, moist towelettes, hand sanitizer, manual can opener, local maps, chargers and back up batteries for cell phone. It is also recommended to have basic tools of wrench or pliers to turn off utilities.  Make sure to have matches and a fire extinguisher in the kit. Don’t forget about medicine for everyone in the family.

Grab and Go kit – If you do need to evacuate, these items are items you should carry with you should your home flood or be unable to reach it after the hurricane. Have a plastic container with important family documents, including birth and marriage certificates, cash, and prescription and non-prescription medication. Have several changes of clothes for each family member in the kit in addition to games, books, or entertainment for everyone in the family.

Nearest Hurricane Evacuation Route – this may seem like a crazy thing to be looking for when looking for your new home, but it is better to be familiar with it before you are in a mad rush to find it.  In the event that a hurricane evacuation is announced, you will need to utilize the hurricane evacuation route. This usually includes reversing major roadways to allow for more traffic to leave than enter the evacuation zone. If your job is one that would require staying put in an emergency such as this, make sure your family knows the route, and you know where to avoid going. Each state lists the evacuation routes on its transportation website. Read more about using these routes on the FEMA website.

Get the Car Ready

If a hurricane is imminent, make sure to fill your car’s gas tank and move vehicles under cover like a carport or garage. If your car is in a garage, consider moving your emergency kit to the car so it is ready in case a hurricane evacuation is announced.

Prepare Your Home

As noted above, prepare the home by boarding and covering the windows. This protects you from shattered glass from winds.

Clean up the yard to avoid any potential debris being blown by the wind. Move bikes and outdoor equipment like a trampoline, grill, and lawn furniture inside.

Take care to trim any loose branches or trees that could hit the home.

Fill sinks and bathtubs with water for washing and flushing the toilet if water is lost.

If you see downed power lines near your home, turn off the power to your home.

Check the battery in the carbon monoxide detector to make sure it is working without electricity in case the power goes out or has to be turned off.

Watch versus Warning

According to the CDC, a hurricane watch is announced when hurricane conditions are possible in a stated area within 48 hours.

A hurricane warning is when hurricane-force winds are expected to occur in a stated area. The warnings are typically announced within 36 hours of expected landfall.

Among these two, the local area may also announce a hurricane evacuation timeline.

In Case of Evacuation

If you do have to evacuate your home, unplug devices and consider disconnecting power, gas and water to limit power surges and flooding.  Follow the reported evacuation route, making sure to follow any emergency workers who may be directing traffic flow.

If Staying Home

If you stay home, make sure you can reach your emergency kit and necessary paperwork and medication. Do not leave your home to test the wind or waters – you are not Jim Cantore. Listen to the radio for any announcements, including an evacuation announcement.

If you are moving to an area prone to hurricanes, ask your new neighbors and locals where they recommend finding emergency supplies, where the hurricane routes are, and any other questions you have. Don’t be afraid to ask ahead of hurricane season – this will keep you prepared for hurricane season.