NAS Holiday Gate Hours
Page 4
CFC Online Pledges Page 7
Get to Know NACRA Page 8 NAVAL AIR STATION PATUXENT RIVER, MARYLAND Celebrating 70 years of community partnership
VOLUME 70, NUMBER 45
Pax wins four of five community service flagship awards By Connie Hempel Naval Air Station Patuxent River Public Affairs Naval Air Station Patuxent River nearly swept the region in the 2013 Community Service Program of the Year Award competition, taking four of five flagship awards, and an honorable mention for the 2013 USS Bainbridge Award, the Navywide award given to one installation for providing outstanding support to the community. Naval District Washington’s 88th Commandant, Rear Adm. Markham Rich, personally presented the four regional Community Service Flagship Awards: Environmental Stewardship; Health, Safety and Fitness; Personal Excellence Partnership; and Project Good Neighbor, to the naval air station during a Command Quarters here Dec. 5. “These awards are a testament to the hard work you all continue to do day in and out, both on station and in the community,” Rich said. “Your efforts not only strengthen our Navy but also reinforce the bond we have with our communities and bring us closer together as neighbors.”
See Awards, Page 5
December 12, 2013
Supporting Navy’s Blue and Gold
By Donna Cipolloni Tester staff writer
This Saturday, the U.S. Naval Academy Midshipmen will storm Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia to contest the 114th Army-Navy game against their archrival U.S. Military Academy Black Knights. Hundreds of thousands of people across the nation will view the game on television, with many supporting the Blue and Gold. But for Mike Thumm and Art Pruett — two USNA alumni now working at Naval Air Station Patuxent River — that support extends well beyond the football field. Both men serve their beloved alma mater by volunteering as Blue and Gold Officers. “The correct title is Naval Academy Information Officer, but we’re better known as Blue and Gold Officer,” said Thumm, deputy program manager, Weapons Control System, Tomahawk Weapons System Program (PMA-280). Thumm, former commanding officer of the Pax River Marine Aviation
The Navy mascot leads U.S. Naval Academy Midshipmen onto the field during the opening ceremonies of the Army-Navy game in Philadelphia. Football fans at Naval Air Station Patuxent River can gear up for this weekend’s game by attending the traditional Eggs and Legs Breakfast from 7:25-9 a.m. Dec. 13 at River’s Edge. Tickets are: $15 for adults, and $7 for kids; cash only at the door.
U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Brien Aho
Detachment, graduated from the USNA in 1975. Blue and Gold officers are assigned to specific schools
to identify and recruit student prospects who might be interested in attending USNA and be capable of completing
its rigorous academic and officer-development program. They serve as the liaison between the academy and the candidates, helping with the application process, which requires a Congressional nomination. “There are about 10 different documents or tests to complete in the application process, and the best time to begin working on it is be-
See Football, Page 10
Navy honors Hornet for 35 years of distinction By Liz Mildenstein F/A-18 and EA-18G Program Office (PMA-265) Communications Support
The F/A-18 Hornet community celebrated the 35th anniversary of the aircraft’s first flight during a ceremony Monday in the Rear Adm. William A. Moffett Building’s atrium at NAS Pax River. Sponsored by the F/A-18 and EA-18G Program Office (PMA-265), the celebration highlighted the accomplishments and continued impact of the U.S. Navy’s longest running tactical aircraft program. “The F/A-18 and EA-18G program continues to thrive; it is by far the predominant tactical force for naval aviation,” said Capt. Frank Morley, PMA-265 program man-
ager, “and it will continue to be for many years to come.” Originally designed to replace the F-4 Phantom and the A-7 Corsair II, the F/A18 Hornet took its first flight Nov. 18, 1978. Today, the F/A-18 platform, including the Hornet, Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler, operate in 44 Navy and 11 Marine Corps Strike Fighter and Electronic Attack Squadrons worldwide. Since its maiden flight 35 years ago, the F/A-18 family of aircraft has flown 8,692,167 flight hours averaging nearly 250,000 flight hours per year since the historic journey. “The success of this program rests on the shoulders of many that have come before us, and many that have spent a lifetime supporting this program,” Morley said during the ceremony. The ceremony’s keynote
speaker, retired Vice Adm. Jeffrey A. Wieringa, shared a number of “sea” stories based on his experience as a past program manager. “I became a naval aviator in 1977 — just one year before the Hornet entered into service,” Wieringa said. “So, you could say that both the F/A-18 and I earned our wings right about the same time.” Rear Adm. Donald “BD” Gaddis, Program Executive Officer for Tactical Aircraft Programs (PEO(T)), also shared thoughts about his time as PMA-265’s program manager and what he believes has made the F/A-18 and EA-18G program so successful. “We have always had very, very good leadership inside the Hornet industry team, PMA-265 and in the competencies,” said Gaddis. “That successful culture is
U.S. Navy graphic
Originally designed to replace the F-4 Phantom and the A-7 Corsair II, the F/A-18 Hornet made its first flight in St. Louis Nov. 18, 1978. Today, the F/A18 platform includes the F/A-18A-D Hornet, F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler and operate in 44 Navy and 11 Marine Corps Strike Fighter and Electronic Attack Squadrons worldwide. going to keep us flying as a team until probably 2030 or 2035.” The ceremony was followed by a luncheon and tours of Hangar 201, home of Air Test and Evaluation
Squadron (VX) 23. Four static aircraft displays were on exhibit, each representing an iteration of the F/A-18. Boeing also provided guests the opportunity to “fly” the F/A-18 Super Hornet via its
mobile simulator. For more information about the F/A-18 Hornet, Super Hornet and EA-8G Growler, visit the Naval Air Systems Command website, www.navair.navy.mil.
2
Tester
Thursday, December 12, 2013
Tester
Thursday, December 12, 2013
3
P-8A: Road to Deployment
Navy’s newest maritime, patrol, reconnaissance aircraft reaches initial operational capability By LaToya Graddy Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Aircraft Program Office (PMA-290) Public Affairs The Navy’s newest maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft, the P-8A Poseidon, has achieved initial operational capability (IOC) after the first two P-8A Poseidons departed for deployment Nov. 29. This announcement comes weeks after the completion of the Operational Readiness Evaluation of the first deploying P-8A Poseidon squadron and the Commander of Patrol and Reconnaissance Group officially declaring the first P-8A squadron, Patrol Squadron (VP) 16, “prepared for deployment” Nov. 4. “This IOC declaration is the culmination of years of careful planning and coordinated effort by the fleet, resource sponsor, acquisition community and industry,” said Capt. Scott Dillon, program manager for Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Aircraft Program Office (PMA-290) at Naval Air Station Patuxent River. By achieving IOC, the Navy can effectively deploy
the P-8A for operational missions and continue to successfully transition from the aging P-3C. The Poseidon program is on track for completing the remaining preparations for the first operational deployment of a P-8A squadron. “There has never been a greater need for a new patrol and reconnaissance aircraft now that the aging P-3 is nearing the end of its life cycle,” said Rear Adm. Matt Carter, commander of the Patrol and Reconnaissance Group, which oversees the Navy’s maritime patrol community. “The P-8 is a true multi-mission platform, which will continue to provide us invaluable capabilities.” With the P-3 to P-8 transition well underway at Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Fla., VP-16 is executing an Inter-Deployment Readiness Cycle and is on track to be the first P-8 squadron to deploy, Carter continued. Patrol Squadron (VP) 5 has completed their P-8 transition, and Patrol Squadron (VP) 45 has commenced P-8 transition after returning from deployment this past summer. In addition to leading the fleet transition process,
U.S. Navy photo by Clark Pierce
P-8A Poseidon No. 429 takes off from Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Fla., Nov. 29, the historic first operational deployment of the Poseidon within the Navy’s maritime patrol and reconnaissance community. Additional P-8s will join this aircraft in the Western Pacific area this winter. Patrol Squadron (VP) 30 is also producing P-8 qualified replacement personnel for direct accession into P-8 qualified squadrons. “The number of submarines in the world is increasing rapidly,” the commander said. “Other countries are either building or purchasing advanced, quiet and extremely hard to find submarines and we need to be able to match that technology to be able to detect them. The P-8, along with the Triton,
will strengthen the maritime mission and provide greater situational awareness.” The program office achieved crucial programmatic milestones throughout 2013, including the successful completion of Initial Operational Test and Evaluation and the ongoing delivery of initial-production aircraft in support of the first three P-3 to P-8 squadron transitions. To date, 12 low rate initial production aircraft were
delivered to the fleet, and the final aircraft in the second prwoduction lot is on track for delivery ahead of schedule before the end of the year. The program office at Pax River, along with the P-8 Fleet Integration Team at NAS Jacksonville, is continuing to support the transitioning squadrons with training by also using the P-8A Integrated Training Center (ITC). The ITC is meeting training require-
ments of the fleet replacement squadron, VP-30 and the transitioning squadrons. “We are pleased the P-8A has been, and continues to be, on cost and on schedule,” Dillon said. “The program office is continuing to support the needs of the fleet and deliver an aircraft that recapitalizes and improves upon the capabilities of its predecessor; greatly enhancing the effectiveness of the Navy’s forward-deployed squadrons.”
News Briefs On base:
NDW Launches News, Information Site: www.navdistwash.org
Naval District Washington recently launched a new web-based, interactive communication tool to get you the news and information you need to stay informed. The site is one-stop for all your region and installation news. Features include: subscriptions to deliver news to your inbox; base newspaper feeds; Commandant’s Corner with a comment section; submit questions anonymously or request a direct response; see what’s trending on NDW social media. Help make NDW the most informed region in the Commander, Naval Installations Command enterprise and visit the site at www.navdistwash.org. If you have questions regarding the new site, submit them online or contact Chatney Auger at 202-433-9714 or chatney.auger@navy.mil.
Individuals who do not see the purple globe on the bottom right screen of their NMCI computer should email these two with their computer name and asset tag number.
Patuxent River Navy Flying Club Private Pilot Ground School
The Patuxent River Navy Flying Club is offering Private Pilot Ground School from 5-8 p.m. Mondays, Feb. 10 through June 9 in Building 2189, Frank Knox, auditorium. The course meets the requirements for the FAA knowledge test and for Navy Continuous Learning credits. For more information or to enroll in the course, please contact Joe Dziewit at 301-862-1110, or stop by the club office behind the Post Office on base.
Commissary to Recycle Plastic Bags
The cycle 222 E-7 Navywide advancement examination date for all Active duty, Reserve, Full Time Support and Recruiter Sailors is now set for Jan. 14.
Commissary shoppers can now recycle their plastic bags at the commissary. All stateside commissaries now have plastic bag recycling bins for any plastic bag, not just commissary bags. The agency’s goal is to recycle 80 percent of all recyclable material generated in stores worldwide by the end of fiscal 2014.
Get Alerts with AtHOC
Department of Aging Road Show
CPO Testing Date Changes
Be ready for adverse weather and changes to base operating conditions by registering with emergency management’s AtHOC. AtHOC messages can be sent to up to three different devices: home and cell phone, TTY/TDD phone, pager, fax, and personal and work emails. Messages provide official updates on base delays and early departures, as well as other notifications that may affect the base populous. Register and update your contact options in one of three ways: www.Ready.Navy.mil, click on Stay Informed and then Wide Area Alert Notification from their NMCI or One Net networked computer; from your NMCI computer, right click on the purple globe located on the bottom right of the screen followed by left clicking “Access Self Service”; or email jerome.ray@navy.mil or tommy.d.truong@navy.mil.
Dec. 17, 1-3 p.m. Building 2090 Learn more about what the Fleet and Family Support Center and the Department of Aging can offer retired military members and their families. Please Register by calling 301-342-4911.
Where’s Gnorman?
Somewhere in this issue we’ve hidden Gnorman the gnome. Anyone spotting Gnorman can either email tester@dcmilitary.com or phone 301-342-4163 now through 4:30 p.m. Friday. Be sure to include a brief description of where he’s located. All correct answers are entered into a drawing and one name is chosen to win a Center Stage The-
ater movie ticket. The same person cannot win more than once per month. Last week’s winner, Carl McCullough, found Gnorman on page seven in the lighthouse cupola photo.
Off base: Tuition Assistance Payments Resume
Following passage of Continuing Resolution Authority, Department of the Navy is in the process of resuming funding of voluntary education programs, including tuition assistance. Effective immediately, all military tuition assistance applications for courses starting on or after Oct. 17, 2013, may be submitted.
St. Nicholas Chapel Service Schedule Catholic Services
Mass: Sundays at 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Weekdays at 11:35 a.m. Continuing Catholic Development (CCD): Sundays from 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Protestant Services
Worship: Sundays at 11 a.m. Men’s Discipleship: Sunday, 6-7:30 p.m. at the Religious Programming Center Women’s Study: Tuesday, 6:30-8 p.m. and Thursday, 10-11:30 a.m. at the Religious Programming Center
Tester
4
Thursday, December 12, 2013
NAS holiday gate schedule To ensure as many Sailors and Pax Pros are afforded the opportunity to take leave and enjoy the holidays, the gates for Pax will operate on the following schedule throughout the holiday period, Dec. 12 through Jan. 10.
Gate One:
Open 24/7 throughout the holiday period. Lanes will have limited augmentation. Commercial Vehicle Inspection Station: Open 5:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. weekdays.
Gate Two:
Open 5:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. weekdays. Closed weekends, Dec. 25 and Jan. 1 Lanes augmented to expedite traffic: Dec. 13, Dec. 16-20, Dec. 23, Dec. 30-31, Jan. 2-3 and Jan. 6-10 No augmentation: Dec. 24 and Dec. 26-27 Normal staffing and operations resume Monday, Jan. 13
Gate Three:
Open 5:30-9 a.m. weekdays for inbound and outbound traffic Open 3:30-5:30 p.m. weekdays for outbound traffic only Closed weekends, Dec. 24-25 and Jan. 1 Normal staffing and operations resume Monday, Jan. 13
Webster Outlying Field:
The main gate is open through the holiday period The back gate off Beachville Road is closed Dec. 13 through Jan. 12 Normal staffing and operations resume Monday, Jan. 13
Naval Recreation Center Solomons:
Open 24/7 throughout the holiday period.
Graphic by Air Traffic Controller 2nd Class Samuel Rocco
Borrowing money? A credit score will lead the way Commentary by Jim Walsh NAS Patuxent River Fleet and Family Support Center Counselor Let’s talk about credit reporting. A solid credit score is one of the most powerful financial assets you can possess. We depend on credit for so many important things in life — whether it’s for buying a car, house or getting a student loan to help our children. And so, that threedigit number — your credit score — is one of the key factors in determining whether you can do these things and at what price; in other words, the cost of one’s living standards. The FICO score is the best-known and most widely used credit score model in the United States. It generates a number in the range of 300-850 based on a formula developed by the Fair
Isaac Corp. How much do they know? A credit score is based on several different factors in your credit history, including payment history, how much you owe on credit already available to you, the length of your credit history, and the types of credit you have. To be considered for the best rate on loans and credit cards, you want a score in the mid700s or higher. Two important areas stand out above others for achieving that higher score. The first is to pay all your bills on time, period. Second, keep credit account balances low — generally less than one-third of your total credit limit.
Are you watching?
You may not have checked your credit score lately, but there’s a good chance someone else has. Staying aware of the information in your credit reports that directly affects your score will give you an early
History retold
Jim Walsh warning to a potentially decreasing score. Credit scores are based on a snapshot of time and scores do change from month to month. Raising your credit score is a bit like getting in shape; it takes time and there are no quick fixes. An important time to check your credit score is at least six months prior to any major purchases, this will give you time to fix errors and to take action to improve your score.
Holiday debt
Finally, whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukah, Ramadan or Kwanzaa, the winter holiday season can be expensive and could lower your score if you are not
careful. Historically, consumers’ credit scores fall steadily every year between December and February. That’s inevitably because we’re paying off our holiday purchases in January and the first months of the New Year. But that process of trying to work ourselves out of the hole - or even just one late payment can cause the credit score to take a hit. While your credit score is extremely important in getting loan approvals and the best interest rates available, you don’t need to obsess over the scoring guidelines to have the kind of score that lenders want to see. In general, if you manage your credit responsibly, your score will shine. Have financial questions? Email them to james.walsh1. ctr@navy.mil at the Fleet and Family Support Center. Be sure to include “Money Talk Question” in the subject line.
U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kenneth Abbate
Capt. Ben Shevchuk, commanding officer of Naval Air Station Patuxent River, speaks with World War II veteran Tom Baszkowski at the base theater during an NAS command quarters, Dec. 5. Baszkowski, who was a firecontrolman aboard LST 700 during WWII, shared his experiences of what it was like serving in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater, participating in some of the Philippine Islands invasions and being under attack by Japanese kamikazes. On the screen is a photograph of Baszkowski and his shipmates aboard LST 700.
See more FFSC classes on Facebook.
For information on any class or program, call 301-342-4911.
Ready Navy Get a free information packet on how to prepare for winter weather and other potential emergencies at the Fleet and Family Support Center, 21993 Bundy Road, building 2090.
Financial Counseling Services The Personal Financial Educator can help you and your family in managing your finances, resolving financial problems and to reach long-term goals. With the help of the FFSC Financial Educator, you can take control of your finances. Make an appointment with a counselor by calling 301-342-5442.
Playgroup at Glenn Forest Thursdays, 10-11 a.m. Moms, dads and caregivers are invited to bring their children for playtime at the Glenn Forest Community Center.
Naval Air Station Patuxent River • tester@dcmilitary.com • www.facebook.com/NASPaxRiver The name Tester is a registered mark in the state of Maryland. This paper is published by Comprint, Inc., 9030 Comprint Ct., Gaithersburg, Md. 20877, (301) 948-1520, a private firm in no way connected with the U.S. Navy, under exclusive written contract with Naval District Washington. This commercial enterprise newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services. Contents of the Tester are not necessarily the official views of, nor endorsed by the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, or the Department of the Navy. The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorse-
Capt. Ben Shevchuk
Commanding Officer
Capt. Heidi Fleming Executive Officer
Cmd. Master Chief William Lloyd-Owen
Command Master Chief
ment by the Department of Defense or Southern Maryland Newspapers and Printing of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use, or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron. If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the publisher shall refuse to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. Editorial content is edited, prepared, and provided by the Public Affairs Office. News copy should be submitted by Friday to be
Connie Hempel
Public Affairs Officer
Donna Cipolloni Staff Writer
Breton Helsel and Deirdre Parry
considered for the following week’s edition. All material is edited for accuracy, brevity, clarity, and conformity to regulations. To inquire about news copy, call 301-342-4163 or fax the Tester at 301-8639296.
Commercial advertising may be placed with the publisher by calling 301-862-2111.
Frederick C. Fair Volunteer
Copy/layout editors Stay up to date with us on Facebook
Tester
Thursday, December 12, 2013
Naval Rec. Center Solomons Cookies with the Clauses
Scan to see more MWR events.
For all MWR news, visit www.cnic.navy.mil/Patuxent and click on the Fleet and Family Readiness tab.
Phone directory
Drill Hall (recreation, fitness and sports) Energy Zone Liberty Information, Travel and Tours Office River’s Edge Catering and Conference Center Customized Creations
301-757-3943 301-995-3869 301-342-3565 301-342-3648 301-342-3656 301-342-3569
Special Events
Holiday WHObilation at MWR’s WHOville
Dec. 20 and 21, 6-9 p.m. Mattapany Day Camp, off Buse Road A celebration of the most wonderful occasion in the Whoville calendar, the holiday WHObilation. This year’s event also includes the Naval Air Station Patuxent River Annual Tree Lighting. Come see the lights and participate in activities in a setting only the “Who’s” can provide. Cost per person: $4; free for children ages 2 and younger.
Customized Creations
White House Christmas Ornaments
Available at Customized Creations for $20 each.
Dec. 13, 6:30-8 p.m. Dec. 14, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., 1-2:30 p.m. and 5-6:30 p.m. Dec. 15, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., 1-2:30 p.m., 3-4:30 p.m. and 5-6:30 p.m. Afternoon of Winter Family Fun with the Clauses come at the naval recreation center’s 5th Annual Cookies with the Clauses. Participate in arts and crafts with Santa’s elves, make a special cookie with Mrs. Clause, and enjoy a surprise visit and story time with Santa.
Liberty Center
Washington Capitals vs. New Jersey Devils Game
Dec. 21; register by Dec. 19 Cost per person: $35; includes a $15 concession voucher. Open to E-1 to E-6 single or unaccompanied active-duty military only. Register at the Information Travel and Tours office.
Christmas Eve Party
Dec. 24, 6-10 p.m. Not able to go home for the holidays? Join us on Christmas Eve as we celebrate with food, music, games, prizes, and an Ugliest Christmas Sweater Contest; bring those ugly sweaters and win. For E-1 to E-6 single or unaccompanied active-duty military only.
Christmas with Liberty
Dec. 25, 2-10 p.m. Not able to go home for Christmas? Spend the day at the Liberty Center with food, music, movies and giveaways. Play a game of table tennis, foosball or pool with other Liberty Sailors, or kick back and relax while watching a movie. Dinner is served at 2:30 p.m. For E-1 to E-6 single or unaccompanied active-duty military only.
5
Up All Night
Dec. 31, 8 p.m. to Jan. 1, 1 a.m. Bring in the New Year with us. Watch movies, play video games, participate in some competition, or join the “Welcome to the New Year” Texas Hold’em poker tournament. No alcohol permitted. For E-1 to E-6 single or unaccompanied active-duty military only.
River’s Edge Catering and Conference Center Wine Tasting Wednesdays Wednesdays, 4-6 p.m. Bald Eagle Pub
Drill Hall
2014 Winter Intramural Sports Meetings
Basketball: Jan. 7, 1 p.m. Volleyball: Jan. 8, 1 p.m. Both seasons begin the week of Jan. 20. All meetings are held in the Bowling Center.
Energy Zone Zumba Kids
Jan. 14, 21 and 28, and Feb. 4, 5:30-6:30 p.m. The Zumba Kids program is the ultimate dance-fitness party for Zumba fans ages 7-11. This program features ageappropriate music and moves to get kids movin’ to the beat. They play it loud and rock with friends to their own rules.
Zumba Kids Jr.
Jan. 10, 17, 24 and 31, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Zumba Kids Jr. classes are a dance and play party where pint-sized party animals — youths ages 4-6 — get silly, dream big and begin their journey to a healthy future. Here they can socialize, move to age-appropriate music and play games with other kids.
AWARDS
Continued from 1 NAS Patuxent River Commanding Officer Capt. Ben Shevchuk also lauded the installation staff for their unwavering efforts. “An amazing group of service members and civilians work and live at NAS Pax River. Their dedication truly shines in the many meaningful ways they volunteer their time and talent,” Shevchuk said. “These awards are a small way for us to say thank you to our Pax Pros for providing such amazing services in our schools, our community, and in their stewardship of the environment.” Highlights of yearlong efforts which lead to the air station’s awards include:
Environmental Stewardship Flagship
This is the 15th year the installation has won or has received an honorable mention for this award. With an environmental staff comprising fish and wildlife biologists, foresters, environmental engineers, geologists, chemists and hydrogeologists, the installation is able to reach out to nearly three dozen public and parochial schools in St. Mary’s County, reaching more than 1,500 students in environmental instruction; oftentimes on the staff’s own volunteer time. Programs include ways students can protect the environment, and how the Navy preserves and protects the natural and cultural resources entrusted to its care.
Health, Safety and Fitness Flagship
In 2013, Pax River logged nearly 1,300 volunteer hours with the Special Olympics, helping more than 250 disabled athletes with physical fitness, motor skills, and in building courage and self-confidence. More than 185 Pax volunteers were on hand to help with set up and tear down of events, distribute a thousand brown bag lunches to the athletes, and serve as Special Olympic coaches and assistant coaches.
Personal Excellence Partnership (PEP) Flagship
The various talents and vast technical resources of NAS volunteers allows the installation’s PEP program to develop Southern Maryland youth to their fullest poten-
“An amazing group of service members and civilians work and live at NAS Pax River. Their dedication truly shines in the many meaningful ways they volunteer their time and talent.” Capt. Ben Shevchuk Naval Air Station Patuxent River commanding officer tial in academic achievement, healthy lifestyles and civic responsibility. Whether it’s through tutoring, mentoring, providing technical expertise or simply serving as positive role models, these volunteers — more than 300 in all — have logged 5,800 volunteer hours in various public, private and parochial schools in Southern Maryland. According to Independent Sector, a leadership network for nonprofits, foundations and corporate giving programs, the estimated dollar value of volunteer time in 2012 was $22.14 per hour. This puts the value of NAS Patuxent River’s volunteer time in local schools at $128,412.
Project Good Neighbor Flagship
Through the NAS Pax River Community Service Program (CSP), volunteers from across the installation are provided with opportunities to participate in numerous, varied volunteer activities and charitable activities in the local community. Some of the top efforts this past year include: Christmas in April, Honor Flight Network, Potomac River Waterfowl Show, Jefferson Patterson Park and Museum, Warrior Dash and Sail Regatta, Feds Feed Families and the Patuxent River Naval Air Museum’s Meet the Airplanes. Each event brought hundreds of Sailor and civilian volunteers from across the installation who logged thousands of hours. “I always say, ‘Pax River has it right,’” Olivia Hunter, Naval District Washington regional community service program manager, said during the awards presentation. “I see so many award packages and the dedication Pax River
U.S. Navy photo by Donna Cipolloni
Naval District Washington (NDW) Commandant Rear Adm. Markham Rich presents Dawn Simpson, Naval Air Station Patuxent River school liaison officer, with the NDW Personal Excellence Partnership (PEP) Flagship Award for 2013 during command quarters, Dec. 5, at the Center Stage Theater. Simpson, along with Senior Chief Master-at-Arms Scott Johnson, were instrumental in securing more than 300 volunteers for the installation’s PEP program, developing Southern Maryland youth in academic achievement, healthy lifestyles and civic responsibility. See more awards photos on the NAS Facebook page: NASPaxRiver. has to its community service programs always shines; you make our region shine. This community is very blessed to have such a dedicated military community at its doorstep that provides quality volunteers for so many activities and programs.” Last year, Pax River earned two region flagship awards, Environmental Stewardship and Health, Safety and Fitness, and two honorable mentions, Personal Excellence Partnership (PEP) and Project Good Neighbor Flagship. The last time it won the Bainbridge award was in 2010.
Tester
6
Thursday, Dec. 12 6:30 p.m., About Time The night after another unsatisfactory New Year’s party, Tim’s father tells his son the men in his family have always had the ability to travel through time. So, he decides to make his world a better place by getting a girlfriend. Moving from the Cornwall coast to London to train as a lawyer, Tim meets Mary. They fall in love, then a time-travel incident meaans he has never met her at all. So they meet for the first time, again and again. Finally, after a lot of cunning time-traveling, he wins her heart. But as his life progresses, Tim finds out his unique gift can’t save him from the sorrows and ups and downs that affect all families, everywhere. Rated: R (2 hr, 4 min) Friday, Dec. 13 6:30 p.m., Last Vegas Billy, Paddy, Archie and
1041013
Thursday, December 12, 2013
Sam have been best friends since childhood. So when Billy, the group’s sworn bachelor, proposes to his girlfriend, the four head to Las Vegas with a plan to stop acting their age and relive their glory days. Rated: PG13 (1 hr, 44 min) 9 p.m., Thor: The Dark World The adventures of Thor, continue as he battles to save Earth and all the Nine Realms from a enemy that predates the universe itself. In the aftermath of Marvel’s “Thor” and “Marvel’s The Avengers,” Thor fights to restore order across the cosmos, but an ancient race led by the vengeful Malekith returns to plunge the universe back into darkness. Rated: PG-13 (1 hr, 52 min) Saturday, Dec. 14 4 p.m., Ender’s Game In the near future, a hostile alien race called the For-
mics have attacked Earth. If not for the legendary heroics of International Fleet Commander Mazer Rackham, all would have been lost. In preparation for the next attack, the International Military are training only the best young minds to find the future Mazer. Ender Wiggin, a shy but strategically brilliant boy, is recruited to join
the elite. Arriving at Battle School, Ender quickly and easily masters increasingly difficult challenges and simulations, distinguishing himself and winning respect amongst his peers. Ender is soon ordained by Graff as the military’s next great hope, resulting in his promotion to Command School. Once there, he’s
trained by Rackham himself to lead his fellow soldiers into an epic battle that will determine the future of Earth and save the human race. Rated: PG-13 (1 hr, 54 min) 6:30 p.m., Thor: The Dark World (3D) 9 p.m., Last Vegas
Sunday, Dec. 15 Free Sneak Preview 2 p.m., Grudge Match Monday and Tuesday No Movies Wednesday, Dec. 18 6:30 p.m., Thor: The Dark World (Not in 3D)
Tester
Thursday, December 12, 2013
7
CFC donors heavily favor online pledging
Campaign extended through Jan. 15 By Donna Cipolloni Tester staff writer At the halfway point of this year’s Combined Federal Campaign, roughly 96 percent of donors so far at Naval Air Station Patuxent River have made their contributions electronically via the MyPay website. “As of Dec. 2, more than $237,000 has been pledged and only $10,000 of that has been through paper pledges,” said Master Chief Air Traffic Controller Leon Thompson, the installation’s CFC coordinator. An analysis of last year’s pledges showed that the bulk
of donations came in within the last few weeks of the campaign, but because of the emphasis during kickoff and the ease of online participation this year, Thompson doesn’t think 2013 will follow that same pattern. “With last year’s paper pledges, most people probably kept pushing it aside on their desk and then when they realized they were running out of time, they filled it out toward the end of the campaign,” he said. “This year, it was easy to go directly to your computer and make your pledge, so we may not see that same uptake in the final weeks of this year’s campaign.”
Online donations can be made at the MyPay website at https://mypay.dfas.mil/, then click on the option under Pay Changes and select “Combined Federal Campaign (CFC).” Click on Add New Contribution, and follow instructions. If you prefer the paper method, you may contact your local command competency CFC representative for the brochure and pledge card. With funding cuts to several government programs, such as food stamps, Thompson wants to remind everyone that the need for charitable contributions is even greater this year than last. “These dollars are important as more people experiencing financial difficul-
ties are finding themselves in need,” he said. “How are those dollars going to be there to help people? [The funds] have to be made up by organizations that support those kinds of needs and causes. That’s what CFC is all about; that’s the goal and desire of CFC.” CFC includes more than
Bravo Zulu
fice at 703-601-0172 to fix the problem. “They are the only authorized people to make those changes once a pledge has been saved,” Thompson said. “They’ll take your Social Security number, find your contribution and make the necessary corrections.” With the government shutdown delaying the start of the 2013 campaign, CFC has been extended through Jan. 15. For general questions about CFC, contact Thompson at leon.thompson@navy.mil or phone 301-995-3810. “I’ll do my very best to steer contributors to the information they need,” he said.
Featured Agents
Naval air station leaders present employees who receive positive feedback and comments through the Interactive Customer Evaluation system, or ICE, for going above their normal duty with Bravo Zulu awards for a job well done.
Ana Gates, River’s Edge Catering and Conference Center staff, received this BZ from the Naval Air Station Patuxent River Commanding Officer Capt. Ben Shevchuk on Nov. 15.
1,100 local nonprofit agencies and federations that offer services and programs in Southern Maryland, along with a host of national and international agencies seeking support. “Go to MyPay and search a list of charities to make your donation,” Thompson said. “You can search by specific name or group category. You can choose to give locally in St. Mary’s County and you can also give outside the county.” Anyone with questions about pledging can contact their command unit representative; or, if a pledge was not made the way the donor intended it be made, they can phone the Voluntary Campaign Management Of-
Making Your Donation
FLO BAILEY 301-580-1842
MIKE MASON 301-213-9857
SUSAN DECK 410-610-2472
DARLENE NORRIS 301-905-2160
CINDY GROFF 301-706-8257
DON WARES 202-215-3424
ANGIE RIVERA 410-535-7103
Courtesy photo
WALDORF, MD
LUSBY, MD
LEXINGTON PARK, MD
3 Bedroom Townhouse located in the heart of Waldorf. Community center with pool, playground and fenced in back yard. Wood burning fireplace for those cozy nights. Local restaurants, entertainment. Purchase this Fannie Mae HomePath property for as little as 5% down!
Privacy & Seclusion, yet minutes to the Heart of Lusby! NO HOA. Brick 2 BR, 1BA Rambler on wooded flag lot 1.25+/-ac features a full BSMT ready for you to finish your way. HDWD in LR & BR’s. Cozy wood burning FP. Room to grow & expand on this large wooded private lot.
With your vision & elbow grease, this Brick Front 3 Bedroom, 1.5 Bath Townhome can be restored to a real gem. This is a Freddie Mac Homesteps Property eligible under the Freddie Mac First Look Initiative. Home Warranty included! Call today to see.
$156,000 • CH8234206
$150,000 • CA8230493
$44,900 • SM8227746
MECHANICSVILLE, MD
MECHANICSVILLE, MD
LUSBY, MD
Water Privileged Community! 3 Bedroom 2 Bath Rambler has ALL NEW Paint, Flooring, Appliances, Cabinets, Roof, & Gutters! This is a Freddie Mac Homesteps Property eligible under the Freddie Mac First Look Initiative.
3 Bedroom 2.5 Bath Split Foyer with 2 car full sized attached Garage and Deck. No HOA! This water oriented community has a lot to offer - Golf course, tennis court, boat ramp, pier, playground, restaurant & club house! Purchase this property for as little as 5% down!
Well maintained and updated, this Spacious Rambler has 2 Bedrooms and 2 Baths on large level lot with Fireplace in Living Room and extra large Master Bedroom. BIG Fenced in Backyard has two large sheds for storage. Home Warranty included!
$224,900 • SM8226141
$250,000 • SM8190867
$170,000 • CA8191477
Serving all of Southern Maryland!
410-535-1000 • 800-231-2913
Look For Your Next Home on Our Website http://PrinceFrederickSales.LNFRE.com 01040927
®
01040815
Ask About Our Military Scholarships for Real Estate Classes.
8
Tester
Thursday, December 12, 2013
Thursday, December 12, 2013
Tester
8
8
Tester
Thursday, December 12, 2013
Thursday, December 12, 2013
Tester
9
Tester
10
FOOTBALL Continued from 1
tween junior and senior year,” said Thumm, who is assigned to St. Mary’s Ryken and DeMatha high schools. “If it’s done in summer, they’re in good shape when the admission board meets as soon as the school year begins.” Part of the application process is a face to face interview
conducted by the Blue and Gold Officer and the student candidate. “We look at five categories: leadership, responsibility, time management, communication skills and physical fitness,” Thumm said. “This gives us a snapshot of what they’ve done and what their potential is. It’s the only time someone is face to face with the applicant and it’s an important part of the process because, if [admissions] is on the fence about anyone, they’ll pay attention to those interview results.” Pruett, product support manager, Naval Air Traffic Management Systems (PMA-213), is a retired Navy captain who
LYNNBROOK, WALDORF
NEWLY PRICED at $224,900
Recently updated windows, gutters, kitchen appliances, HVAC, hot water heater & more! Carport & separate detached garage have new roofs & electric. Plus, lg. storage rm w/washer & dryer, Jacuzzi tub in BA, 2 bedrooms, family rm w/mini-bar, fenced yard w/patio & more! Convenient commuter location! #CH8151979
IRMA PROCTOR
301-753-2615 (ofc) 301-643-2495 (cell) 1039186
1039189
1033739
Thursday, December 12, 2013
graduated in 1987. Assigned to Chopticon and Great Mills high schools, King’s Christian Academy and Leonard Hall Junior Naval Academy, he views his Blue and Gold role as a way to give back. “I want to help the naval academy obtain the absolute best and brightest candidates for admission,” he said. “It’s simply my way of giving back for all of the things that USNA has ultimately given me.” Eggs and Legs Tradition Prior to Game Day On Friday, both men will be among the 100 or so people who regularly attend the annual Eggs and Legs Breakfast, a tradition that unwittingly began years ago at USNA when a Supply Corps officer had to come up with a last-minute meal to feed the busloads of Midshipmen traveling to the ArmyNavy game; the only thing available was chicken drumsticks and eggs. “[Our local breakfast] is hosted by the Greater Southern Maryland Chapter of the USNA Alumni Association and is a great opportunity to meet fellow USNA grads as well as share in some stories about our time there,” Pruett said. “It’s a way to get revved up for the game; and, yes, we actually eat eggs and chicken legs for breakfast.” Go Navy; Beat Army Thumm and his wife, Patti, are Navy football season ticket holders, attending about five home games per year, traveling to Annapolis in their Navy-decorated car and wearing their team jerseys. They have attended the Army-Navy game in the past but will be watching on TV this year, he said. Pruett’s fondest memory harks back to his days at the Academy when, in 1983, the entire Brigade of Midshipmen was flown to the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Calif., to attend the big game. “Everyone had a host family they stayed with out there,” he recalled. “The 1.5-mile march to the stadium was like marching in the Rose Bowl Parade with thousands of people lining the street waving and cheering us on. It’s the only time the game has been held west of the Mississippi. Navy won.” In fact, Navy is riding a wave of 11 consecutive wins and no matter what Coach Rich Ellerson might say to his Black Knights about how the last 11 years has no bearing on this weekend’s game, Navy supporters believe Army’s fate will be 12 straight. Make those Mules sing first. Go Navy!
Thursday, December 12, 2013
Tester
1036320
1033866
11
12
1041016
Tester
Thursday, December 12, 2013
Thursday, December 12, 2013
1039018
Tester
13
Tester
14
Thursday, December 12, 2013
Around Town St. Mary’s County: A Family Plantation
Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sotterley Plantation Horse-drawn carriage rides, Garden Guild greens and gifts sale, children’s activities, live music, a Secret Santa Shop, the “Elves Marketplace,” and many new activities this year including Breakfast with Santa from 8-10 a.m. and Christmas trees available for purchase on site. Breakfast reservations are required; call 301-373-2280. Cost per person: $5.
Santa and Mrs. Claus on the Square Saturday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Leonardtown Square
Meet the Airplane Event
Saturday, Noon to 3 p.m. Patuxent River Naval Air Museum Featuring the many missions of the C-130 Hercules. View exhibits and discuss this versatile aircraft with pilots and support personnel. The experts will gather for a panel discussion at 1400 in the main exhibit hall. Children’s activities and games, raffles, food for purchase. Admittance is free, but donations appreciated. For more information phone 301-863-1900.
THE RÉSUMÉ EXPERT “Mobile Service”
Holidays at Sotterley
Saturday and Sunday, and Dec. 18-20 Visit Sotterley’s plantation house decorated for the holidays and hear about the traditions of the families who lived here. $15 per person. Rreservations required. For tickets and tour times, visit www.sotterley.org.
Performance of 1812: Tide of War
Sunday, 3 p.m. College of Southern MD, Prince Frederick campus War of 1812 Speaker’s Series presents Donald Shomette and Gary Rue & Company performing 1812: Tide of War. This original musical performance, also available on CD, describes Maryland’s role in the events of the War of 1812. Shomette and Rue worked together to shape into melody the stories of the Maryland heroes and heroines whose lives were caught up in the drama of the final wrenching of the fledgling America from the influence of Great Britain.
HH
n Federal/Civilian/Military Transition Résumés n n Database Input n Résumé Writing Training n n KSA’s n Job Search Assistance n n
Situation Specific Writing Projects n
T6613600
H H NON-EMPLOYMENT RELATED SVCS H H Please call Phyllis Houston at 301-574-3956
1009182
HH
Kids bring their wish lists; parents bring cameras for photos. Drop off a new, unwrapped toy at Winegardner Automotive. In case of stormy weather, visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus in the auto showroom.
1039182
Leonardtown Library Holiday Party
Tuesday, 6 p.m. Leonardtown library Celebrate this festive time of year with stories, songs and crafts. All ages are invited.
Calvert County:
7th Annual Christmas Market
Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. All Saints Episcopal Church, Sunderland Terrific craftspeople will help with your Christmas shopping. Baked goodies, cocoa and glühwein add to holiday spirit! Rain, snow or shine! No admission fee. Proceeds benefit parish and community projects.
Luminaria Event
Saturday, 6 to 8 p.m. Chesapeake Village Community, Chesapeake Beach Drive through the community and enjoy the beautiful luminaria event.
Thursday, December 12, 2013
Tester
15
Tester
16
Thursday, December 12, 2013
SAVE THIS SHIPPING GUIDE - SAVE THIS SHIPPING GUIDE - SAVE THIS SHIPPING GUIDE - SAVE THIS SHIPPING GUIDE
SHOP EARLY
SHOP EARLY
A Quick Reference Guide For All Your Holiday Shipping Telephone: 301-863-5664 • Fax: 301-863-5114 Wildewood Shopping Center • California, MD 20619 INDEPENDENTLY OWNED & OPERATED SHIPPING CENTER
Christmas 2013 Shipping Guide Get It There In Time For The Holidays!
GUARANTEED AIR SERVICE FEDEX & UPS
FEDEX GROUND SERVICE Ship Date Delivery Date
UPS GROUND DELIVERY MAP 5 Days
5 Days
4 Days
Day Saturday
2 Days
1 Day
1 Day
6 Days 4 Days 3 Days
4 Days
Bowhead is a veteran friendly, small business Alaska Native Corporation providing government contracting and professional services support while delivering top quality customer support. Bowhead has challenging career opportunities for the following positions: • Program management and support services • IT services and support • Weapon systems acquisition management • Foreign Military Sales • Manned and Unmanned aircraft program support • Systems engineering and integration • Software management/software development • Logistics and life cycle management To be considered for employment you must apply online at http://www.uicalaska.com/careers/openings/. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO/M/F/D/V)
Dec. 24 Dec. 24 Dec. 24 Dec. 24 Dec. 24
Region Day 5 Day 4 Day 3 Day 2 Day 1
Delivery Date Zones Dec. 24 Dec. 24 Dec. 24 Dec. 24
All All All All
UPS GROUND SERVICE
Ship Date Dec. 16 Dec. 17 Dec. 18 Dec. 19 Dec. 20 Dec. 23
Delivery Date Dec. 24 Dec. 24 Dec. 24 Dec. 24 Dec. 24 Dec. 24
Region Day 6 Day 5 Day 4 Day 3 Day 2 Day 1
EXTENDED STORE HOURS
3 Days
2 Days
Three Days Two Days Two Days Next Day
Hours Date Dec. 14 & 21 10am - 4pm
Refer to the state/region of the map to which you intent to ship. Locate the number of BUSINESS DAYS necessary to delivery within that area. Keep in mind, this is the last possible ship date for delivery by 12/24. Any delays within the carriers system will delay delivery until after Xmas.
1039187
The following maps show the estimated time required for delivery of parcels shipped by ground for FEDEX and UPS.
01041015
Dec. 19 Dec. 20 Dec. 21 Dec. 23
Dec. 17 Dec. 18 Dec. 19 Dec. 20 Dec. 23
GROUND TIME-IN-TRANSIT MAP
FEDEX GROUND DELIVERY MAP
Ship Date Method
Dr. Lynn Fenwick 22646 Cedar Lane Court Leonardtown, Maryland 20650
www.bretonvet.com
Providing this community with personalized Veterinary Care and serving the needs of your four legged family members • Life Stage Wellness • General and Laser Surgery • Vaccinations • Boarding • Nutrition and Behavior Consultations • Dental Care • Radiology • Pain Management Including Therapy Laser
Call for an appointment today!
301-475-7808
1038823
To determine delivery times to all regions of the continental U.S. via ground service using FEDEX or UPS, refer to the ground service maps for each carrier shown below. Below are the last possible ship dates for ground service via FEDEX & UPS using maps showns. CAUTION!!! There are NO DELIVERY GUARANTEES for ground shipments. When shipped by the dates indicated below, ANY delays within the carrier system may delay delivery until after Christmas.