Welcome to the Army Spouses' Club The Army Spouses' Club of the Greater Washington Area (ASCGWA), a non-profit organization comprised of non paid volunteers, strives to provide and promote socio-economic and educational outreach to the soldiers, family members, and Department of the Army (DA) civilians assigned to, attached to, or with duty in the National Capital Region (NCR) and to organizations which benefit soldiers, as well as to encourage, support, and maintain interaction of our membership. As the Army Spouses’ Club, we are proud of our heritage, inspired by our diversity, and excited about our future! We make it easy to connect with old friends and make new ones through a wide array of activities, including monthly luncheons, tours, volunteer and fundraising opportunities, and other social functions. The DC area has so much to experience; why not come join us and experience it with us? We can’t wait to meet you! Members of the Army Spouses' Club of the Greater Washington Area live throughout the metro area in Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, including Joint Base Fort Myer-Henderson Hall, Fort McNair, and Fort Belvoir. We hope you become a member. To join please visit our membership page. Membership Membership is voluntary and open to spouses of: military members of the U.S. Army and the other Military Services who are active duty, in the Reserve Components, National Guard, retired from active duty, retired from reserve component duty, and those separated from service who maintain eligibility for rights and privileges that accompany the family member ID and DA civilians. Members can also be: spouses of accredited Military Attaches and Assistant Attaches assigned to embassies in Washington DC; spouses of foreign military members (sponsored by their respective embassies) assigned to duties in the National Capital Region; spouses of the Superintendent and the Deputy Superintendent of Arlington National Cemetery during their sponsor's tenure; designated Honorary members; and other persons deemed appropriate upon approval of the President. ASCGWA dues are $45 per year. This membership fee includes access to: reservations to our monthly luncheons, digital Backchannels monthly newsletter, a variety of club-sponsored activities and special programs, invitation to the annual Joint Armed Forces of Washington Luncheon (JAFOWL) and our digital membership directory. Those who are eligible for membership in ASCGWA may attend only one function as a guest, then must be a member to continue attending. President's Message All you need is love, love… love is all you need. February is here, and you know what that means; Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. Will you spend this special day with your Valentine or hang out with your besties for a Galantine’s Day? No matter what you choose, may your hearts be full and the memories fond. As Audrey Hepburn once said, “Elegance is the only beauty that never fades.” My, how elegant all of you fabulous ladies looked at our Breakfast at Tiffany’s Bingo Luncheon – simply dazzling. A special “thank you” to Jenn Price, our 1st VP, for showing off her shopping skills. A few ladies are now the lucky owners of a new purse, and you know the saying, “you can never have enough purses!” Also, to Jen Uhlman, our 2nd VP, for the gorgeous table decorations. Every girl deserves a little blue box. “Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler” ~ let the good times roll. The French quarter may have bourbon street, but this month our Mardi Gras Murder Mystery luncheon is going to be hard to beat. Grab some feathers, put on your mask, and throw on some beads, then join us for some Cajun food and authentic New Orleans-style King Cake. We are so excited for our second annual Joint International Showcase. Registration is open through March 1st. You do not want to miss this amazing event on March 7th at the Waterford. Twenty-eight countries will share a taste of their culture and home with you. You will find the flyer with the QR code for registration in this Backchannel. You should have received an email with additional details. Please share with friends and neighbors, as this event will be open to all. You do not have to be a member of ASCGWA to register. Our Parliamentarian Desiree Moore is seeking nominations for next year’s executive board. If we sparked your interest and you would like to share your talents and energy with our amazing club, please consider serving on the board. Our club needs people like you to continue its history and legacy. More information can be found in this edition or by contacting Desiree. Hugs, Ramona Smith Coming together is the beginning, staying together is progress, working together is success!! |