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News | Nov. 1, 2018

HQC employees break a sweat in Monster Dash

By Beth Reece

About 100 McNamara Headquarters Complex employees earned the right to dip into the trick-or-treat bowl by burning extra calories during a 5K walk/run Oct. 31.

Employees were encouraged by the event’s sponsor, the Morale, Welfare and Recreation Program, to participate in costumes representing the theme “Monster Dash.” Juan Aldape, a support analyst for the Defense Logistics Agency director’s staff, walked the course dressed as the grim reaper.

“A lot of employees get stressed out from their job and this gives them a chance to relieve some of that stress, especially since it’s an agency-promoted event. You’ve got to take time off for yourself occasionally,” he said.

Despite a bad foot, Aldape has participated in MWR fitness events and sports throughout his 20 years at the agency and is a member of the HQC Fitness Council. He recently won first place in the HQC badminton championship.

Running times were not calculated, but prizes went to participants with the most creative costumes. All winners are DLA employees: first place, Lew Sigmon, mummy; second place, John Pastino, zombie; and third place, Angela Shannon, mad scientist. 

“First and foremost, we do this so employees have a chance to focus on fitness. It makes them stronger employees and is a morale booster,” said Beverly Hicks, MWR program manager for DLA Installation Support.

Other MWR events being planned include the HQC Door Decorating Contest Nov. 26-27, the HQC Tree Lighting Ceremony and Holiday Social Dec. 6, as well as the HQC Winter Warrior Project running January through March.