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The Commissary Surcharge, What is it? Could it Be Going Away?

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An oft misunderstood aspect of shopping at your local commissary is the 5 percent surcharge added to your total when you check out. Many question this fee and think it adds to their cost making the commissary not as good a deal. Nothing could be further from the truth.

Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) calculations include applicable taxes in commercial grocery store prices and surcharge in commissary prices. Average savings over off base grocery store vary on your location but in 2019 range from 20% or more in stateside commissaries to 35.1% in Alaska and Hawaii and 42.2% overseas. The average savings from all commissaries is 25.6%. So even with the surcharge you can save quite a bit shopping at the commissary.

According to a recent article in the Military Times by Karen Jowers, the commissary surcharge could be going away per a Pentagon proposal. It is a complicated because the commissary surcharge is mandated by law and is used to for construction and maintenance of facilities. A few surcharge facts from DeCA:

  • The 5 percent surcharge added to every commissary customer’s receipt – goes directly back into the benefit, paying for the modernization and replacement of stores. It’s the funding source for maintenance and repairs, store equipment and store-level information technology systems, such as checkouts.
  • It is not a tax. Surcharge dollars go back into stores, paying for the construction and modernization. In fiscal 2018, the surcharge budget is nearly $271 million.
  • The surcharge has been set at 5 percent since 1983, and cannot be changed without congressional approval.
  • The surcharge’s history traces back to 1879 and features various applications and rates through the years leading up to 1983. Through the years, thanks to the surcharge, patrons have a direct role in sustaining and enhancing their commissary benefit.

According to Jowers, the Pentagon proposal to do away with the surcharge is part of draft legislation to change the law.  It appears the purpose is to allow the money currently raised by the surcharge to be used for the commissaries operating fund and to do away with the surcharge fund. This would take money for basically reserved for a building fund and move it into day to day operations of the commissary saving money on the Pentagon budget for commissaries.

She interviewed Kelly Hruska, Director of Government Relations for the National Military Family Association who voiced concerns. “I have a lot of questions. I still don’t understand how the variable pricing will be adjusted to make up for loss of surcharge.” I’d like to understand where the proposal came from, and the purpose of the proposal. I don’t know how this would help the customer. You’ll be raising shelf prices that won’t benefit customers. Since customers compare prices — if the commissary price is higher, they’ll shop elsewhere.”

My concern is what happens if money is moved out of the surcharge fund. What will pay for the maintenance and improvement of our commissaries? Also, if there is no surcharge will prices go up at the commissary?

Currently there is no information on this new proposal on the DeCA website. When information on changes to our benefits leak it is a good thing because it allows us to advocate for our benefits with Congress. The legislature has ruled against Pentagon requests in the past so if a benefit is important to you make sure to write your Congressional representatives to let them know.

How COVID-19 is Impacting Military Families

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Hearing news of people exposed to COVID-19, a.k.a. novel Coronavirus, being quarantined at military bases in the United States brings back memories of soldiers returning from Africa who were quarantined at Joint Base Lewis-McChord a few years ago. I lived there at the time and remember feeling tinges of concern. Overall though, I was sure all the necessary precautions were taken and that those that lived on the base would be safe.

I recently visited my son at Lackland Air Force Base where some of the people exposed to COVID-19 are quarantined. He said they could see the people in Hazmat suits visiting and how eerie it was. Overall he wasn’t concerned. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, novel Coronavirus data so far suggests the illness is mild, although the elderly and people of all ages with severe underlying health conditions are at higher risk of developing serious COVID-19.

Another concern is with regard to our friends stationed in South Korea, particularly in Daegu where Coronavirus is widespread. Their posts on Facebook attempt to be positive, but you can read between the lines and see they are worried. All the schools are closed, and the children are doing all their assignments virtually. No one is quarantined on the base, but soldiers aren’t allowed to go to any businesses off the base and family members are asked to avoid leaving as well. Even all large gatherings such as church services are canceled. The local government off the base has banned large groups and asked that the populace remain home. I can imagine that it is challenging for families stationed there, especially not knowing whether they can travel or not.

In a recent Department of Defense (DoD) news briefing, Secretary of Defense Dr. Mark T. Esper said, “For the past six weeks, defense leaders have been meeting to plan for any possible scenario with the virus that first surfaced in China. “We’ve issued a variety of [memoranda] and directives advising the force on how to deal with Coronavirus.”

One thing that is important to know is that the military already has plans in place to combat a pandemic or infectious disease outbreak. Army Gen. Mark A. Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff reiterated this at the press briefing and stated that the military is executing those plans. The DoD is monitoring what is going on in the field and reacting accordingly. For example, an exercise in South Korea has been postponed due to the large outbreak in that area while Exercise Cobra Gold in Thailand is continuing.

One thing a lot of people don’t realize is the military has research laboratories. The mission statement of the Military Infectious Diseases Research Program (MIDRP) is to protect the U.S. military against naturally occurring infectious diseases via the development of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved vaccines, drugs, and diagnostic assays and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved vector control protection systems (to prevent transmission of infections by insects, ticks, etc.). According to Milley the labs are working “feverishly” to try to come up with a vaccine.

Esper recently conducted a detailed meeting with DoD civilian and military leadership, including all the service secretaries, the COCOM commanders, to ensure the entire department is equipped for all scenarios: short and long-term, domestic and international. “Commanders of individually affected geographic commands have all the authority they need, and we’ll provide specific guidance to their troops as the situation continues to evolve. Meanwhile, NORTHCOM remains the global integrator for all DoD efforts and entities. My number one priority remains to protect our forces and their families; second, to safeguard our mission capabilities; and, third, to support the interagency whole-of-government approach. We will continue to take all necessary precautions to ensure that our people are safe and able to continue their very important mission,” said Esper.

We will see how the situation pans out in the next few weeks, but I feel the Department of Defense has a good handle on the situation especially for service members stationed overseas.

For more information and updates on COVID-19, please visit https://www.cdc.gov/ and https://www.defense.gov/.

Marguerite Cleveland is a freelance writer who specializes in human interest and travel stories. She is a military brat, a veteran and now a military spouse.  Her military experience is vast as the daughter of a Navy man who served as an enlisted sailor and then Naval Officer. She served as an enlisted soldier in the reserves and on active duty, then as an Army Officer. She currently serves as a military spouse. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and two sons. Visit her website www.PeggyWhereShouldIGo.com

Space A Travel Tips and Tricks

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     Have you ever wanted to try Space-A Travel but were a little intimidated? It is a great option for free travel if you are flexible. The Air Mobility Command (AMC) flies planes around the world and when there is unused space it is available for Space-Available flights. Military Service Members and their families can travel around the country or the world for little or no cost. It is very unpredictable but if you have a flexible time frame and take the time to plan, Space-A can be a fun adventure. Most bases have lodging available for TDY and PCS moves. When those spaces aren’t reserved, they are also open for Space Available reservations.

Photo Credit: ©Christine /Adobe Stock

     So how do you find out about using all these great low-cost options. First visit the Air Mobility Command website and go to the AMC-Space-A travel section. This spells everything out in black and white. If you have difficulty reading military jargon check out Military Space Available Travel which has info on flights and lodging. Stephanie Montague, a retired military spouse, created Poppin’ Smoke a blog about travel using your military benefits to stay and fly. She also has a Space-A getting started guide which is very informative. Another option is to check out Military One Source which has a great section on Space-A Tips and Tricks.

     Most AMC terminals run a Facebook page which has all the information on what flights are available. It is useful to visit and look at dates that have past. For example, flights don’t just leave from military bases some leave from airports. A quick look at flights to Ramstein Air Force Base in Germany showed 72 seats released and only 32 used with the lowest category a CAT VI which means even if you were the lowest category on that flight you would have made that flight. Whereas another flight showed 10 seats released, 10 used and they took CAT II so if you were a CAT VI you would not have made that flight.  The Facebook pages typically post a 72-hour flight schedule and many post the monthly schedule as well.

     The basics (make sure to visit Air Mobility Command to verify eligibility, paperwork, etc.) to take a flight are:  

  • Sign-up – Up to 60 days from when you expect to take your trip and at each potential terminal. There is some gamesmanship involved. Many like to show up about 50-55 days out so they have been the longest on the list for their category and it also allows a few days after your arrival at the terminal in case you don’t get on a flight the first day before your 60 days is up and you have to sign up again.
  • Double Check – A few days prior to travel call the terminal and verify your standing on the list.
  • Check In – On the day of your planned trip arrive at the terminal with all the required documents and your baggage at least one hour prior to roll call when they call the names for that flight. Make sure to double check the times for roll call as it can change as well as the flight times.
  • Wait – Now you wait while they call the names and hope that you are called. If you are not called, you are still eligible for the next flights to your destination or you can look at other flights leaving that day.

     A few things to increase your odds of success. Give yourself a three-day buffer on each end of your vacation. Most Space-A flights are scheduled Mondays thru Fridays. Be flexible if you want to go to Spain and can get a flight to somewhere in Europe take it. Once there you can possibly take another flight to Spain or find cheaper commercial options to get there. Don’t fly on drill weekends or during school breaks as you will have a difficult time getting a flight.

     So, what do you do if you don’t make your flight or something unexpected happens? Montague says you must be adaptable. “We adapt by being flexible and prepared to move. Flexibility is key when your destination changes to an unexpected location. Preparing to strategize means having your resources at hand to coordinate lodging, transportation, and other logistics wherever you land. Case in point. Last year we were flying Space-A from Japan to Europe, and we thought our most likely landing point would be Ramstein AB or NAVSTA Rota; those bases have frequent flights from the US, and we’ve flown in and out of both terminals several times. As it turned out, the final leg of our journey was from JB McGuire to Spangdahlem, Germany. We had never flown via Spangdahlem, but we knew that the base is somewhat remote and doesn’t have as many passenger services as Ramstein. While waiting at McGuire, we researched the logistics and our transportation options in Spangdahlem so that we knew exactly what to do when we hit ground. When flying into a terminal for the first time, research that location as much as possible before boarding, and begin strategizing your next move when you land.”

     So you have finally arrived at your destination, now what? If you did your planning, you investigated Space-A lodging opportunities. In addition to lodging on the military bases there are also some great Armed Forces Recreation Centers. The one most familiar to everyone is the “Shades of Green” at Disney World in Orlando, Florida. There are also the Edelweiss Lodge and Resort in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany; the Dragon Hill Lodge in Seoul, Korea; the Hale Koa Hotel in Fort DeRussy, Hawaii.; and the New Sanno Hotel in Tokyo, Japan. These are awesome luxury resorts if you can get into them. Also check the MWR site at the military base you plan to go to for other lodging options. Fort Story in Virginia Beach is a beach front option to stay at. Another option is Pacific Beach on the west coast of Washington State which is an old Navy base turned into a resort. Each branch of service has a lodging website for example Navy Lodging. You can find options online by searching for military lodging which will give you tons of options to plan your trip.

     Another option for getting advice on Space-A travel is to ask your fellow military spouses about their experiences. Facebook pages for military spouses or your military base are a great resource to ask questions. Often the military clothing sales stores on the base will have books on taking a space-a flight or books on lodging options.

     Have you ever taken a Space-A trip? What was your experience like?

Marguerite Cleveland is a freelance writer who specializes in human interest and travel stories. She is a military brat, a veteran and now a military spouse.  Her military experience is vast as the daughter of a Navy man who served as an enlisted sailor and then Naval Officer. She served as an enlisted soldier in the reserves and on active duty, then as an Army Officer. She currently serves as a military spouse. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and two sons. Visit her website www.PeggyWhereShouldIGo.com

Swing into Spring Break like a Boss

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Spring break might still conjure up visions of the epic MTV specials, complete with tons of tanning oil and the latest pop stars dancing on the beach in, say, Cancun. But you’re ready for something a little less 1999 and more 2020, with a fun, adventurous spin.

Something for adults – only. No kids, no MTV-type specials. Just a 21+ good time.

Swing into Spring Break like a Boss

Buckle up for exciting adventures to treat yourself for spring break in 2020!

When You’d Like to Just Relax:

You’ve worked hard all year (okay, since your New Year’s 96…) and you deserve to just do nothing. For like a week straight. Nothing.

You’re going to want to book your trip here:

  • Sandals Resorts: not only do you get a 10% military discount, but these tropical resorts all also host their own world-class spas, tons of gourmet restaurants and have gorgeous white sand beaches with comfy chairs. Relaxation game: high.
  • Temecula Creek Inn: located in SoCal’s wine country – and convenient to San Diego and Camp Pendleton – Temecula Creek Inn offers 20% off to military personnel. Sip world-class wine, putt and chip on pristine greens and then unwind in the on-site pool. Vacation: complete.
  • Ballantyne, Charlotte, NC: relax in the spa at this luxury resort. Book your stay for 15-20% off between February 1 and June 15. With on-site golf, dining and spa treatments available, you’ll leave 100% ready for your next night pulling 24-hour duty.
Photo Credit: © Dmitry Sunagatov/Adobe Stock

When You’d Like to Find Adventure

Sitting on a beach is nice, but what you really want is a complete adrenaline rush. Your on-duty exploits and adventures are just not enough for you!

Book a trip here to keep on exploring:

  • Flyga Twiga: this military-spouse owned business builds custom safari experiences for travelers of all levels, in destinations around the globe. From hanging with a lion pride to spying on gorillas in the mist – and so much in between – you can create the perfect adventure together!
  • Pink Jeeps Tours: explore the exciting Southwestern US with a legendary tour company, for 10% off all tours! Hop into a bright pink vehicle and bump around the Grand Canyon, Death Valley or Sedona with other adventurers.
  • Wildland Trekking: get out on the trail with this supportive hiking tour company! You can score deals on spring hikes, up to 25% off, right now. This company lets you hike in luxury, with tents, meals and an expert guide provided.

When You’d Like to Use Your Passport

Your passport is feeling a little lonely, a little empty. And you’d like to add some stamps on spring break.

Perfect. You’ll want to book these vacations:

  • New Sanno Hotel: stay in the heart of Tokyo at a budget price! You’ll love this military-only hotel for its location and amenities. Explore the many sides of Tokyo, from the ancient to the wildly modern.
  • Edelweiss Lodge: explore the German Alps and dig into some brats at this military-only resort in the heart of Bavaria! Bonus: there are tours you can book and a spa to relax, plus on-site dining.
  • Contiki Tours: for an adventurer who wants to see everything and do it all, this exciting company is perfect for you! There are options around the globe, with trips available on six continents. Mention code HEROES for a special discount.

When You Want to Be on a Boat

Yeah, hotels are nice, but you’re here for a floating city filled with literally everything you could ever want on vacation.

Food and drinks? Yup. Entertainment? 100% here for it. Swimming and relaxing at the spa? Totally. Adventure “in location” or at each new destination? Absolutely.

You’re gonna want to check out these different cruise options:

  • Carnival Cruises: no matter where you want to travel, Carnival probably goes there. From Europe to Alsaka, Australia to the Carribean – there is a wonderful multi-day vacation package ready for you. Military personnel and retired veterans are eligible for discounts on select cruises.
  • Avalon River Cruise: sail the scenic waterways of Europe, sipping Old World wine and nibbling on luxury food as you go. You can score great deals on sailings through 2021 right now!
  • Disney Cruises: yes, there will be kids on board, but you might never know! With tons of adults-only locations on-board, you can go the whole trip without seeing even one child! Plus, there are magical cruise deals to be had for military members.

No matter what kind of vacation you’re looking for this spring, there’s definitely something out there – often with a steep military or last-minute deal available! From staycations to spa trips, off-roading exploration to serene cruises, you’re sure to enjoy spring break 2020.

What are your favorite adults-only vacation with a military discount? Sound off in the comments!

Time to Shine! Contest Shines the Spotlight on Military Kids in April

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Military children weather a lot of storms: deployments, frequent moves, making new friends all the time, long separations from parents and family. April, Month of the Military Child, gives all of us a chance to share your child’s resilience and courage!

In support of the National Month of the Military Child, Military Shoppers News is proud to shine the (purple) spotlight on your military child or children.

Share Your Military Child’s Story of Resilience & Courage

Too often the stories of military kids get lost or glossed over, the thanks going to the serving parent or the military spouse.

Not this April!

All of March, we’re collecting stories – from you and your kids. Nothing fancy, just snapshots of their lives as military kids.

Tell about a time when:

  • your military child overcame an obstacle unique to military life
  • they showed resilience in the face of a long deployment
  • your child was able to see the silver lining in a tough situation
  • military life helped to mold your child’s character for the better
  • your military child stepped up to serve their community

Or anything else special, wonderful and amazing about your military child. Which covers pretty much everything, really.

Entering Military Shoppers News’ Month of the Military Child Contest

There’s nothing to mail in, just a quick online submission form.

When entering, please keep the following in mind:

  • this contest is designed to honor military kids up to age 18
  • any military-connected child is eligible – veteran, AD, reserve, Guard, retired
  • be honest and real – we love a heartfelt story!

Please use the form at the bottom of this article to enter. It has everything you need – including the waivers and consent forms.

All submissions must be received by March 31, 2020 at 11:59 p.m. E.D.T. to be eligible for publication and prizes in this contest. If your essay is selected, you’ll be notified in early April, prior to publication of your child’s story and image.

By entering, you’re agreeing to:

  • have your story edited for publication, if selected
  • share your minor child’s photo online, including social media
  • share your child’s name online, including on social media

To enter, you’ll need to upload an original image of your child and/or your family, including the serving parent. If you plan to use a professional photo, make sure you have a signed photo release from the photographer or contact that person to obtain consent.

You’ll also need to upload your original essay. Please ensure that no part of this has appeared in print or been submitted elsewhere for possible publication.

When you submit, you’re agreeing to have your photo and essay edited and published by Military Shoppers.

Photo Credit: ©oes /Adobe Stock

How We’re Honoring Your Military Children

Throughout the month of April, your stories are going to be featured right here on Military Shoppers News and shared all over our social media pages.

Your child’s story of courage and resilience will be in the spotlight!

But wait, there’s more.

At the end of April, three stories will be selected as prize winners and each featured one week in April!

Just by entering, you’re eligible to win a $100 Amazon gift card!

Three winners will be selected by Military Shoppers News on April 1, 2020. Each winner will receive a $100 Amazon gift card courtesy of Military Shoppers News. The deadline for submission is March 31, 2020 at 11:59 p.m. E.D.T.

The final winners will be announced on Military Shoppers News, and our social media channels on Facebook and via email broadcast.

To be eligible to win, you must be a legal resident of the US with one or more parents who are currently serving, are currently in the reserve or Guard, or who have previously served during the child’s life and are now retired or have EASed from active service.

Children must be under 18 at the time of submission and must have been born during the military service member’s active duty service or during activated reserve or Guard service.

To submit, you must be 18 or older. Anyone connected to the military child may nominate a child. One entry per child please. Multiple submissions for a single child will not be considered. Teachers, parents, neighbors, siblings and other family members may all nominate a military child by submitting a story and photo.

For full eligibility and contest rules, please fully review the fine print on the submission form.

We can’t wait to share your child’s story in April!

How has your military child been resilient and brave throughout military life? Enter our contest to share their story and win great prizes!

Recent Survey of Army Spouses Has Takeaways All Military Spouses Can Use

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A recent RAND survey of Today’s Army Spouses had some interesting findings that all military spouses can relate to. Most were not unexpected, but some issues had me thinking that we can do better in some areas to help our fellow spouses. The issue that really stood out for me is that spouses of junior enlisted soldiers were more likely to indicate a need for general information especially about military practices and culture.  Also, it was noted that spouses who used resources to meet their needs had their needs met. For those that didn’t use the resources the reason given was that they didn’t know about it. I think we need to do a better job of getting information out. Often the information is presented to the active duty member who often doesn’t pass it on to their spouse.

The survey was conducted by the RAND Corporation which is a well-respected research organization. It is nonprofit, nonpartisan, and committed to the public interest. The survey was conducted with the U.S. Army Research Institute for the Behavioral and Social Sciences. Here are the key findings:

Photo Credit: ©zimmytws /Adobe Stock
  • Work-life balance, military practices and culture and well-being were the top chosen problem areas
  • The most frequently selected issue was ‘feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or tired’. The next selected issues included feelings of loneliness or boredom.
  • For spouses who expressed a need for help, the top need was emotional or social support.
  • Junior enlisted spouses expressed the greatest need for information especially regarding military practices and culture.
  • When questioned about the resources spouses used these were the most common: personal networks outside the military, other military spouses, a medical provider covered by the military, internet resources both civilian and military, and social media.
  • The most reported reason for not using resources to help was not knowing who to contact.
  • Spouses who used resources had most of their needs met.
  • All spouses indicated having one or more needs unmet.
  • The two highest problem areas not met were health care system problems and military practices and culture.
  • The two areas with the least unmet needs were household management and their own well-being.
  • For those with unmet needs they reported the most stress and the least positive attitudes towards the military and their active duty spouse staying in the military.
  • The most vulnerable were Spouses who were unemployed and looking for work, those who lived far from the military installation, and spouses married to junior enlisted soldiers.

There were a variety of common-sense recommendations made such as revamping Army Family Readiness groups to improve communication and provide social support for military spouses. Look to reach spouses by collecting email addresses (I thought we already did this). The one I felt was most important was to consider targeting vulnerable groups of spouses for outreach.

I also think there are areas we as military spouses can have some impact. One way you can reach out to new spouses is to encourage your active duty spouse to host a gathering at your home inviting the military members that he supervises and their spouses. This can be done at any level from junior enlisted supervisors all the way up to officer ranks because new spouses come in at all levels. It really does make a difference. Often spouses do not receive information from their military spouse about activities and resources that can help them adjust to military life. I can remember as a new soldier going to my squad leader’s home and how it made me feel like someone cared. Make sure to reach out and personally give contact information so spouses know someone they can reach out to. When my husband first took command, we became aware of a soldier and his family living in squalid conditions in an ant infested home. They were young and didn’t realize the landlord’s responsibility. My husband planned a battalion wide week where every single soldier and his family received a short visit by the immediate chain of command. Family members received Family Readiness group information and the team was able to identify any families that could be at risk during the upcoming deployment.

What do you do to help junior military spouses feel welcomed to your unit? Do they feel comfortable asking questions or do people make them feel dumb because they don’t know the answer? We can all make a difference.

Marguerite Cleveland is a freelance writer who specializes in human interest and travel stories. She is a military brat, a veteran and now a military spouse.  Her military experience is vast as the daughter of a Navy man who served as an enlisted sailor and then Naval Officer. She served as an enlisted soldier in the reserves and on active duty, then as an Army Officer. She currently serves as a military spouse. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and two sons. Visit her website www.PeggyWhereShouldIGo.com

Air Force Veteran Shares Stories of Women in the Military

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After Amanda Huffman left the Air Force in 2013 after 6 years of service, she traded in combat boots for a diaper bag. But the change from full-time Airman to stay-at-home-mom wasn’t smooth or easy. Amanda felt adrift and without purpose.

“I needed something because I was going crazy being a stay at home mom,” she says. “I lost my identity when I left the military. I needed something to do for me outside of taking care of my son.

Image courtesy of Amanda Huffman

During her deployments, Amanda had loved writing letters home, creating a record of her experiences on active duty for herself and her family. Jumping off from there, she launched Airman to Mom to help people understand her journey and build a community of support.

“For a long time, I didn’t want to write about being a veteran” Amanda explains. “I tried to write about travel and be a mom blogger. People were more interested in that stuff.”

Air Force Veteran Shares Stories of Women in the Military

In 2017, she found her mission and her voice sharing the stories of fellow female service members and veterans. That year, Amanda launched a 31-day series focusing on publishing women’s military stories.

“I started collecting deployment stories in 2017 for a 31-day series focused on deployments,” she shares. “I ended getting responses from primarily women and I was fascinated by their stories.”

This one 31-day blogging series was the launching pad for Amanda’s book and podcast.

Image courtesy of Amanda Huffman

“I wanted to hear more stories,” she says. “A friend suggested that I just do it as yearly series and just do one a week. Then we started talking about podcasting.”

Sharing Female Veterans’ Stories Becomes a Mission

One thing led to another and in 2018 Amanda took the next step.

“I took all my original interviews and turned them into the book, Women of the Military, which is on Amazon. A lot of those are anonymous. A lot of them are still in the military or have hard stories they don’t want to share publicly.”

Women of the Military is available on Amazon in print and digital formats, as well as on Amanda’s own website as an ebook.

Amanda launched her podcast, Women of the Military, in 2019. Initially, women seemed hesitant to share their honest stories of military service.

Some are still on active duty. Others have tender or intensely private stories that they don’t want shared publicly.

“Only two of my original interviews wanted to be on the podcast. Now I have people knocking down my door to be on the podcast!”

Supporting Female Veterans & Future Service Members

Amanda’s main mission is to show that women serve fiercely and proudly. Doing this work feeds her soul and fuels her passion to collect more stories.

“I love to learn and it filled me up. I loved to learn about the history of the military and women’s history.”

Sign up to share your story on the Women of the Military podcast!

Podcasts listeners include current and former military members, as well as those considering military service.

Whoever is listening, Amanda’s goal is to show the many ways that women serve the United States.

Huffman, on left in second row from back, during a deployment in Afghanistan;
photo courtesy of Amanda Huffman

“I want people to know that the reason why women are doing what they are doing today is because of what women have done (in the past),” Amanda explains. “Women have been doing all this stuff. We could go into places that men couldn’t go because we’re women, so the military changed the policies.”

So many of the stories on Amanda’s podcast dispell myths about what women can or can’t do. Sharing these experiences might help other women consider military service.

“Sometimes when you are a woman and you say you want to join the military, your family says ‘No,'” she explains. (It’s r)eally good to connect (with) the next generation with women who have served. (The podcast) helps the young women who are looking to join find resources and connections.”

Amanda hopes that by listening to the podcast, everyone will learn more about the true history of women in the military.

“(It’s c)orrecting people when they say things you know aren’t true. I think by listening to the podcast, they’ll learn a lot of the history of women in the military.”

Do you have a story to share with Amanda? Are you a fan of her podcast? Sound off in the comments!

Fall in Love with Your Buy Nothing Community

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It happens every single PCS: you’ve purged but have nowhere to put all the things you want to have leave your house.

Some of it is awesome quality, but you don’t want to go through the hassle of selling it. Other things are useable but well-loved. And then you have the random odds and ends from your pantry.

Where to bring all of this, well, stuff?

Enter Buy Nothing, a community-building movement that invites you to “gift” the things you’ve KonMaried from your house to your neighbors – for free! It’s literally the answer to everything.

Fall in Love with Your Buy Nothing Community

I’m a recent Buy Nothing group convert. And now I preach it’s gospel to anyone who will listen – Hello, Military Shoppers News friends!

Yes, it seems crazy. Give a whole bunch of your stuff away for free to your neighbors? Nuts!

There is a method to the madness, I promise.

The basic philosophy is pretty much “one person’s no longer needed item is another person’s treasure.” All those random spices and sauces you collected in your PCS prep purge? Someone might really enjoy cooking with them!

Support Your Neighbors with Buy Nothing

Buy Nothing also keeps those gifts hyper-local, too. As in within a few streets or blocks of your house.

Every Buy Nothing group is neighborhood-based, often times by established subdivisions, city districts or zip codes.

Each time you gift items from your home, one of your neighbors picks it up to use in their home. When they’re done, they might opt to post it in the Buy Nothing group again to find another new home. In this way, each item can get used by many families before it’s worn out!

Connect to Your Neighbors’ Gifts via Facebook

Sounds great! I get to off-load all the things I no longer want to people who can currently use them. Where do I sign up?

Actually, it’s all right on Facebook! Every group operates a private Facebook group. New members join by identifying two streets nearby (not revealing their actual address).

Everyone in the group can post “gifts,” or things they’re getting rid of, or “asks,” items they could use.

On gift posts, you can “bid” on the items you might want to claim. There can be clauses, like share a recipe you’ll make with this gift, in order to be considered. Other times, things are offered first-come, first-served.

If you are “gifted” the item(s) of your choice, you’ll connect with the donor to arrange a swap.

For asks, members will explain why or how they need the requested material(s). Sometimes, it might be needed for a short time – like air mattresses for overnight guests or a cocktail dress for a wedding. Other times it is items to keep – like missing ingredients for dinner that night or boots for a child.

Here’s Why I’m Obsessed with Buy Nothing

When we arrived back stateside in summer 2019, I received all of our HHG that had been in storage for three years. In other words, items I had learned to live without and mostly did not miss.

As each box was opened, I kept muttering the phrases: “Why did we keep this?” and “Where are we going to put this?”

The answer to both questions was a resounding “No clue.”

Enter Buy Nothing.

As I unwrapped those “no clue” items, I snapped a picture and posted it to my Buy Nothing group. That let people know it was available for gifting. Sometimes within minutes, I would have comments and replies asking to be considered for the item. And then each thing exited my house, into the grateful hands of a new owner!

100% awesome.

With very few exceptions, I was able to “gift” several moving boxes worth of items I no longer wanted or needed. No trip to the GoodWill. No selling or, let’s be real, attempting to sell.

Sample list of things I’ve gifted:

  • Outgrown children’s clothes
  • DVDs
  • Books
  • Decor
  • Jane Austen action figure (yes, that’s a real thing)
  • Shoes

I posted. It was claimed. And then it was just gone from my porch!

At first, I was just a gifter. As we’ve settled in and winter has arrived, I’ve turned into a giftee as well.

Three years in the sub-tropics didn’t really prepare us too well for, you know, cold and snow. My kids had approximately zero winter clothes or shoes.

Until I was gifted some via Buy Nothing.

I’ve also gratefully received:

  • Home decor
  • Potatoes, tomatoes, carrots and other veggies
  • School uniforms
  • Work clothes
  • An entire wardrobe of barely-worn Lularoe (some new with tags!)

Will You Commit to Buy Nothing with Me?

My USMC husband was super skeptical at first.

“People just, like, give these things away? What’s the catch?”

There is no catch, except the extra cash in your wallet!

After realizing that Buy Nothing is a community based on saving money, he was hooked. Not having to spend on pricey school uniforms completely sold him on the concept.

In total, I would guess we’ve gifted several hundred dollars worth of things we’ll no longer need but that still had life left. On the other hand, we’ve also received about that much back in gifts. It really evens out!

Plus, we’re no longer storing all the things in our (very tiny) house. Once we’re done, the item moves to a new home.

Everyone likes saving money! And it’s a good way to make sure that things get all the way used up, too.

It’s also kind of made for military communities! We rely so much on each other generally. This just makes sure you’re being more economical in the process.

What’s your favorite way to reduce, reuse and recycle? Sound off in the comments!

Military Spouses Seek Wellness with Virtual Retreat

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Built by military spouses, for military spouses, the InDependent Wellness Summit™ is a virtual, week-long retreat that invites military spouses to put themselves first. Book your (free) ticket to holistic wellness for March 2-7, 2020!

This innovative holistic experience is all digital. It’s ideal for busy military spouses who are often solo parenting and/or operating on a strict budget. A virtual retreat means no expensive travel, no hotels to book and no babysitters.

Military Spouses Seek Wellness with Virtual Retreat

This year, military spouses are invited to discover Dimensions of Strength.

“The point is, far too often we focus on feeding our weaknesses. As a result, our strengths become starved and our wellness begins to wilt.”

Dimensions of Strength will focus on creating strength internally, as well as building external support systems you can rely on.

Wellness & Growth on Your Schedule

Each Wellness Summit over the last 5 years has featured expert speakers and curated content to foster reflection and growth.

The 5th Wellness Summit features:

Each interview is delivered as a podcast episode. Summit members can listen at their leisure – whenever and wherever suits them!

Two Ways to Support Your Wellness Journey

This year’s Wellness Summit offers two different levels of participation.

The General Admission Pass is 100% free. You’ll get:

  • digital download of last year’s interview, Finding Your Why with Peter Docker
  • a recent, digital Legacy Magazine issue
  • access to a free Thrive Market membership.

Every summit participant will also be entered into a Prep’d Prize Pack!

Attendees with the General Admission Pass will get each interview in podcast format plus a printable listening guide.

All-Access Pass holders will get additional options. Tickets for this level cost $74.99. The Military Shoppers community can save 50% off All-Access admission with code MILSHOP2020.

Grab your All-Access InDependent Wellness Summit Pass for 50% off with code MILSHOP2020

When you purchase an All-Access Pass, you’ll get everything included with General Admission, plus:

  • access to the Wellness Lounge, a supportive virtual community that deep dives the expert interviews each month
  • extra mini-sessions, LIVE videos, workouts and recipes
  • printable Summit workbook + monthly Lounge workbooks
  • virtual swag bag with freebies and discounts
  • daily Summit giveaways

Book your IWS tickets today!

Watch Together & Build Community

While everyone is encouraged to attend, at either level, the Wellness Summit is also a great opportunity for military spouses to build community.

Book tickets for your neighbors, Readiness Group or other community organization. Then host wellness listening parties!

Prep snacks and drinks to share, do the daily workout together and listen to the podcast episodes. Creating a community like this is one way to build a strong support system!

Is the Summit for Me?

Short answer: yes!

The InDependent Wellness Summit is for all military and first responder spouses – no exceptions. The topics covered are universal to those who serve alongside military and first responder loved ones.

The Summit offers military and first responder spouses a chance to build community and talk about the ways in which our loved ones’ service impacts our lives. It also provides tools and resources to help each of us build strength internally and externally.

You can listen in from anywhere at any time – perfect for widely scattered military spouses. And because it’s a virtual summit, with everything shared 100% online, there’s no impact on your daily life or schedule.

Join the InDependent Wellness Summit from March 2-7, 2020 and celebrate all the ways in which our military spouse community is strong!

Have you attended the Wellness Summit? Sound off in the comments!

New Commissary Patrons Will Soon Have Access to All the Features on the Commissary Website

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     Disabled Veterans and other new Commissary Patrons will have to wait before they will will have access to all the features on the MyCommissary portal. This does not affect their access to shop at the Commissary. “After the Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) deploys changes to the MyCommissary portal, our new customers will be able to register their Rewards Card to access Digital coupons and use CLICK2GO at participating stores,” said Kevin L. Robinson, Public Affairs Specialist, DeCA.

      These features allow Commissary patrons to register a commissary rewards card and upload discounts and deals that are only available to authorized shoppers. The CLICK2GO program is currently being tested and will allow commissary patrons to order groceries online and then be conveniently delivered to their car. This feature will provide a convenience especially for the disabled patrons.

     The influx of 4.1 million new users necessitated changes to the MyCommissary portal. “Work to update the MyCommissary portal could not begin until completion of the new authorized user validation tables, which took longer than expected as the volume of data shared between the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Defense Manpower Data Center was massive. The tables are now complete and DeCA is making needed system changes to interface with the new validation tables and must test that the validation process works and is seamless to our customers. DeCA’s system changes are expected to be completed by late February or early March,” said Robinson.

     “We ask our new customer groups to be patient as we update the portal user authentication function. The Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) estimates the access will be available by late February or early March. Customers will be able to tell when the new functionality is available because DeCA will remove the access caveats for the new patron group from the website. We will also formally announce when access to MyCommissary is possible. To be clear, this does not affect our new customers’ in-store shopping access or access to many other areas of commissaries.com,” he added.    

     According to Robinson, newly eligible veterans and caregivers currently have access to many other areas of commissaries.com to include:
•       The Savings Center, which includes our basic sales flyer, information on current sales promotions, the Your Everyday Savings (YES!) program, our private label program also known as Commissary Brands and links to coupons.
•       Healthy Living, which includes DeCA’s Nutrition Guide Program, dietitian-approved recipes, healthy living resources and Thinking Outside the Box recipes that offer quick, healthy and economical solutions for busy consumers.
•       Commissary Gift Cards, available in denominations of $25 or $50.
•       Information on scheduled sidewalk sales, Healthy Lifestyle Festival events and Guard/Reserve on-site sales.
•       Food safety and food recall information.

     DeCA will make an announcement when all the features of the MyCommissary portal are available to new patrons. Check back often for commissary news and updates.

Marguerite Cleveland is a freelance writer who specializes in human interest and travel stories. She is a military brat, a veteran and now a military spouse.  Her military experience is vast as the daughter of a Navy man who served as an enlisted sailor and then Naval Officer. She served as an enlisted soldier in the reserves and on active duty, then as an Army Officer. She currently serves as a military spouse. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and two sons. Visit her website www.PeggyWhereShouldIGo.com