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Celebrate the rest of 2019 with MWR

Enjoy a musically spirited evening at JBLM’s MWR’s Wine and Jazz Festival Saturday, Sept. 14, at the McChord Club. (Credit: Lional Kam)

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As summertime approaches its end, the scope of family-oriented activities is viewed through a new lens, one of autumnal appreciation and holiday cheer. As the leaves and weather change, so does the theme of celebratory happenings in the local area. This year, JBLM's MWR (Morale, Welfare and Recreation) calendar is brimming with events that are sure to keep the good times coming now through the remainder of 2019.

"MWR is a quality of life program that directly supports readiness by providing a variety of community, servicemember, and family support programs, activities and services," explains Special Events Coordinator Gloria Tomczewski, who has dedicated 20 years to the MWR mission. "Included in the MWR are social, fitness, recreational, educational and other programs and activities that enhance community life."

For the month of September, gear up for back-to-back weekend fun with MWR's Wine and Jazz Festival and Oktoberfest. Hosted from 5 to 9 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 14, at the McChord Club, attendees of the Wine and Jazz Festival can expect live music from Pacific Lutheran University's jazz ensemble, the Lute Ambassadors, as well as singer/saxophonist Maureese Itson. To up the ante for the evening, consider pre-ordering appetizer platters that will complement the wine tasting experience. The cost for this 21+ event is $18 per person and includes three three-ounce tastings and a souvenir wine glass.

Keep the good times a-comin' with German-centered fun at Oktoberfest, Saturday, Sept. 21. Stop by the MWR Fest Tent from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. for authentic music, beer and activities. Admission for this event is free, food and beverages are available for purchase.

For ghastly tricks and treats, lace up your running shoes and sport your spookiest costume for the annual Zombie Apocalypse 5K and Not So Scary 1K at Russell Landing Marina Oct. 26 from 7-9:30 p.m. Get into the Halloween spirit by participating in the trunk-or-treat, costume contest, and Walk in the Dark at Shoreline Park Haunted House that will also be taking place that evening. The first 350 race registrants will receive a ticket to the haunted housed at no extra cost.

To kick off the month of November on a high note, plan on attending the I Love You to the Moon and Back Family Dance, taking place Saturday, Nov. 2, at the McChord Club. Enjoy live DJ entertainment and light refreshments for only $20 per couple, and $8 per for each additional person.

Celebrate the holiday season with Winterfest Dec. 7 from 3-7 p.m. at MWR's Fest Tent. This joyful jubilee boasts a slew of hands-on activities and holiday-themed films that are sure to provide festive fun for the whole family. Capture the moment by posing for photos with Santa and burn off seasonal snacks with a holiday fun run.

Need further enticement to check out MWR's convivial calendar of upcoming happenings? "Proceeds from MWR events goes to the actual cost that is associated with that particular event, such as labor, prizes, decorations/equipment, entertainment, etc.," relays Tomczewski. This means patrons can live it up knowing they're contributing to future MWR event success.

The latter part of the year brings with it a slew of celebrations and festivities, ripe with opportunity to spend time with family and friends while also engaging within the local community. This year, fun-seekers can rejoice knowing MWR has a bountiful selection of fun events and activities in store before this year comes to a joy-filled close.

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