Please pardon our mess
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Thursday, August 30, 2012
Tester
Small businesses honor 15 NAVAIR employees By Emily Burdeshaw NAWCAD Public Affairs intern The deafening sound of aircraft on the flight deck presents challenges to ground crews trying to communicate with air traffic control. But thanks to two small businesses, the problem is well on its way to being rectified. Through the Naval Air Systems Command Small Business Innovation Research, or SBIR, program, small businesses partnered with the Navy to develop technology that will potentially allow ground crew and air traffic control personnel to communicate more clearly. James Wilt, a senior scientist from NAVAIR's Warfighter Survivability division, initiated the SBIR topics resulting in projects with two small businesses specializing in hearing technology. "In my experience, small businesses have the know-how and can do things quickly," Wilt said. "Sometimes they just need some help working through our (Transition Assistance Program) and SBIR processes. I'm happy to help them with that because it becomes a win-win." Wilt was one of 15 NAVAIR employees recognized by Naval AirWarfare Center Aircraft Division, or NAWCAD, Commander Rear Adm. Randy Mahr with a People's Choice Award at the organization's headquarters Aug. 16 for training and supporting small businesses working with the Navy and DoD. Selected by participating small businesses, the People's Choice Award underscored the importance of active Navy engagement in the process and recognized those who went above and beyond to help the small-business community. "With the People's Choice Award, you can't ask to be nominated," Mahr told the attendees. "I can't do anything to help you get this award. You earn it through your own efforts and actions." The awardees were also earlier honored June 5 in front of nearly 1,400 people at the 2012 Navy Opportunity Forum in Crystal City, Va., where the Navy, large prime contractors and small businesses gathered to form connections possibly leading to future technology transition. "SBIR technologies help fill the capability gaps and meet the acquisition needs of the Navy," said Donna Moore, the program manager for NAVAIR's SBIR efforts. "It is a very robust process that harnesses talent and power throughout NAVAIR."
Making aircraft testing more efficient
The awardees from NAVAIR filled many roles, from submitting original research ideas, to being the liaison between the Navy and small business. Award winner Dean Carico said he has often reached out to the small business sector to fill various fleet needs. An aerospace engineer for manned and unmanned air vehicle evaluation group, Carico worked with two small businesses on a
U.S. Navy photo
Rear Adm. Randy Mahr, far right, presented the People's Choice Award on Aug. 16 for training and supporting small businesses working with the Navy and DoD. From the left is Jesse McCurdy, NAVAIR deputy assistant commander for Research and Engineering, NAVAIR Small Business Innovation Research program manager, Donna Moore, and awardees: Robert Watson, Dean Carico, Bryan Ramsay, Katrina Mansfield, James Wilt, Mark Beranek and Brian McDermott. Selected by participating small businesses, the award was created to show the importance of active Navy engagement in the process and recognized those who went above and beyond to help the small-business community. project to help support test efficiency. He said the workload in a test program can vary greatly, so it is hard to find and optimize a balance between testing and analyzing results. "Over the course of several years, the small business program has had a big positive effect on how we support testing," he said. "We have a better realization of how the results relate to each other and the environment that we are testing within." Carico recognized the impact small business innovation can have on technology development in the Navy and proposed his first topic several years ago. "Small companies are working on everything imaginable," he said. "We should always look for new technology to tie together (what we have)." Dr. John Asvestas, an electronics engineer with the Radar and Antenna Systems division, supported Carico's point with a history lesson. He described how the Navy often expended funds on a trial-and-error testing method before using computers. "Computer modeling and simulation has significantly reduced the number of design cycles, thus reducing prototyping costs and loss of design momentum," he said. "In my own area
of electromagnetics, SBIR funding has been instrumental to bringing a good number of simulation tools on line. Small business won't burn through one million dollars in one day. A million goes a long way in a smaller company ... you don't have to go through hundreds of people (to get the job done). It's much more efficient."
How SBIR works
Each year, the SBIR office reaches out to NAVAIR for research topic ideas. NAVAIR employees submit ideas and a review board selects the most applicable and needed innovative topics for solicitation to research-oriented small businesses with fewer than 500 employees. Each small business competitor then submits a proposal. SBIR has three phases, with Phase I and II funded with SBIR dollars. Phase I provides an opportunity for the business to prove their feasibility, while Phase II demonstrates the feasibility through a prototype/process. Small businesses awarded a Phase II receive the option to participate in theTransition
See NAVAIR, Page 11
Ready Navy launches in September By Connie Hempel NAS Patuxent River Public Affairs
We're ready. Are you?
You may have heard or seen this phrase around base lately and may wonder what it means. Because disaster can happen at a moment's notice, the Navy wants to know: are you and your family ready? Being ready means more than throwing a few items in a box. Building a kit, making a plan and staying informed, these are the keys to a Ready Navy. September marks the launch of the Commander, Navy Installations Command-sponsored Ready Navy campaign, the new emergency preparedness campaign formerly known as Operation Prepare. Why the change? The Department of Defense, among other government agencies, rebranded its emergency preparedness campaign within each service as a means of aligning them to enhance awareness among all audiences with something
that's easily identified: Ready Navy, Ready Marines, Ready Army and Be Ready Air Force. "Being ready empowers people and Ready Navy has the resources to help them do that," said Chief Damage Controlman (Surface Warfare) Eric Wolf, NAS Patuxent River Emergency Management. "While many of our Sailors feel they're already prepared for disasters, past CNIC studies indicate family members and other personnel assigned to Navy installations—tenant commands, civilians and contractors— aren't." Whether it's man-made or natural, disasters happen anytime and anywhere, even at NAS Patuxent River as many here may remember last year's earthquake which was followed by Hurricane Irene. The Ready Navy campaign is geared to increase everyone's ability to be ready for disasters such as these, and more. "The Navy, Emergency Management and our first responders are committed to helping people in need. When disaster strikes, though, these professionals will be
facing many calls for their services," said Capt. Ben Shevchuk, NAS Patuxent River executive officer. "Individual and family preparation through a program like 'Ready Navy' will reduce stress and save time, property and even lives." Wolf said it's best to have at least 72 hours worth of supplies because basic services may be cut off for days. "You may need to survive on your own after an emergency or you may need to evacuate at a moment's notice and can take only essentials," he said. NAS Patuxent River Emergency Management Officer Jerome Ray, said in addition to having a kit, being prepared in-
cludes having an emergency plan, family meeting places and a list of contacts available. Some of the Ready Navy recommendations include: Make a kit. Create one or more emergency kits with enough supplies to last three days. Have a plan. Family members should understand their family preparedness plan. They should know what to do, where to go and what to take during an emergency. Be infor informed. med. Find out what disasters have happened in the area and how often. Learn about the area's specific instructions. These are just a few of the items Ready Navy suggests. Additional tips, forms and guidance on being prepared and staying informed are available at the Ready Navy website, www.ReadyNavy.navy.mil. For St. Mary's County-specific emergency preparedness information, visit www.co.saint-marys.md.us/publicsafety/ index.asp; for Calvert County, visit www. co.cal.md.us/residents/safety/emergency.
Thursday, August 30, 2012
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Tester
Countdown: Less than 70 days to Election Day Photo and story by Doug Miller Guest contributor Many voters find carving an extra 15 to 20 minutes out of their day is the only real difficulty when it comes exercising their right to cast ballots. Otherwise, it's a pretty simple matter. You swing by a polling location on your way to work or on the way home, sign in, pull a few levers or punch a few virtual buttons on a touch screen, and you're done. But casting ballots can be a little more complicated for service members and civilians who work away from home on a military base; or is it? Here to make voting on Election Day easy for service members and civilians on base, whether they're an old hand at absentee voting or have never registered, are the people of the Voting Assistance Office. Running the the VOA are Lt. Cmdr. Monica Agarwal, base supply officer and voting assistance officer; Aviation Support Division Officer Lt. Elliot Riley, who doubles as the installation's deputy voting assistance officer; and Logistics Specialist
2nd Class Filomena Stamegna and Logistics Specialist 2nd Class Roberto Gonzalez. Because of the relatively small number of Sailors, Marines and civilians on NAS Patuxent River — civilians who are much less likely to be away from home — the voting-assistance desk at Gate 2 Pass and ID is only open 3-4 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays. However, those seeking help with voter registration or absentee balloting can call the voter-assistance staff any time at 301-342-3235. If it's after hours, leave a message and help will be on the way. Six to eight people a month come to the voting-assistance team, generally young Sailors or Marines looking to cast a ballot for the first time, Riley said. With an address of record, the voting assistance staff can determine what offices are up for election in a person's home district, when primary and general elections are, deadlines for registration and absentee balloting, how to fill out forms and when to send them, all with the help of the Federal Voting Assistance Program guide. The voter-assistance team is also seen around base doing presentations at every
Voting program launches website for smartphones
The voting-assistance desk at Gate 2 Pass and ID is open 3-4 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays, or call the voter-assistance staff at 301-342-3235. indoctrination and conducting voter-registration drives for any command that asks. A voter-registration drive is also slated for 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 22 at the commissary. With the help of the Voting Assistance Offices at every military installation, exercising a fundamental right for which so many have fought and died couldn't get any easier. When was the last time you had a duty that was so easy?
ALEXANDRIA, Va.— Service members, their families and U.S. citizens living overseas now have voting information at their fingertips with the Federal Voting Assistance program's new mobile website. The site provides an interface that quickly leads users to voting information inaneasy-to-read,mobile-friendlyformat. Accessible from any smartphone, the site connects voters with the latest news alerts, absentee voting information, state election dates, key contact information, and answers to frequently asked questions. Users also can sign up for FVAP's voting alerts. Users will be directed automatically to the mobile website when they visit FVAP.gov from a mobile browser. Courtesy of American Forces Press Service.
News briefs Naval Health Clinic Labor Day holiday schedule
Friday: Clinic and pharmacy open from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday: Clinic and pharmacy are closed Tuesday: Clinic and pharmacy resume regular hours For more information, contact Nicole Quinn at 301995-4980.
St. Mary's County government offices Labor Day holiday schedule
St. Mary's County government offices, Senior Activity Centers and the three St. Mary's County libraries are closed Monday in observance of Labor Day. The St. Andrews Landfill and six convenience centers, and the St. Mary's Transit System will not operate Monday and there will not be any Meals on Wheels deliveries. Normal hours and operations resume Tuesday.
Influenza vaccinations
Active-duty military can get their flu vaccine from 8-11:30 a.m. or 12:30-3 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Naval Health Clinic Preventive Medicine Department. The vaccine is also available for active-duty military at Center Stage Theater from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 17-18, from 8 a.m. to noon Sept. 19, and from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Oct. 1-3. Eligible beneficiaries can get their vaccine from 7:30 a.m. to noon, or from 1-4 p.m., in the immunization clinic. TRICARE beneficiaries can also receive the vaccine from a TRICARE retail network pharmacy at no cost. To find a participating pharmacy, call 877-363-1303. For more information, call the clinic's influenza phone line at 301-342-7894.
Diversity United, Building America's Future Today Wednesday, 10-11:30 a.m. and 12:30-3:30 p.m. River's Edge Catering and Conference Center To help commemorate Hispanic Heritage Month, Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, all hands are invited to attend Diversity United, Building America's Future Today. This command-wide presentation is hosted by NAVAIR's Hispanic/Latino Engagement Action Team and features keynote speaker Deborah Santiago, co-founder and vice president for policy and research for Excelencia in Education, and a cross-cultural training session. To register visit http://hispanicheritagemonth.events-
bot.com. For more information, contact Nancy Danganan at nancy.danganan@navy.mil or 301-757-4112. To request special accommodations, contact David Shaw at david.shaw2@navy.mil or 301-995-3626.
NAVAIR Journal for Scientists and Engineers
The new Naval Air Systems Command Journal for Scientists and Engineers is now available online at https://mynavair.navair.navy.mil/navairjournal, and is seeking abstracts for the second issue. To submit an article for the winter 2012/2013 edition of the journal, email an abstract to navair_journal@navy.mil by Sept. 24. For more information, contact Sheila Holzberger at Sheila.Holzberger@navy.mil or 301-342-5361.
Community Emergency Response Team training
Wednesday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Joint Base Anacostia Bolling, Building 72 The Community Emergency Response Team training is provided free of charge by "Serve DC's" to better prepare residents to respond to emergencies in their communities. When emergencies occur and 1st responders cannot respond, CERT members can provide immediate, critical assistance for family, neighbors or other victims, and can help organize spontaneous volunteers at a disaster site, until help arrives. Seats are limited. Register by calling 202-767-0450.
Household hazardous waste days
Sept. 8, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. St. Andrews landfill St. Mary's County residents, which include on- and off-base housing, can drop off their residential hazardous wastes. The St. Andrews landfill is located on St. Andrew's Church Road, a quarter-mile west of the Route 4 and Route 5 intersection. Hazardous wastes will not be picked up at any residence. Items accepted for drop off during this day include: gasoline, gas/oil mixtures, fuels, acids, cleaners, solvents, bleach, ammonia, pool chemicals, photography chemicals, household and lawn pesticides, paint, paint thinners, mercury thermometers and wood preservatives; items not accepted include: ammunitions, asbestos, explosive materials, medical waste, pharmaceuticals, radioactive materials and picric acid.
Fourth Annual Interfaith Prayer Breakfast Sept. 11, 7-8 a.m., Building 401 Social Hall All are invited to the base chapel's fourth annual prayer breakfast, "Remembering September 11." This event is an inclusive, non-denominational prayer time for America. A free breakfast is provided. For more information, contact Religious Programs Specialist 2nd Class Thomas Harrald at 301-342-3811.
Webster Field Pass and ID hours change The Webster Field Pass and ID office is now open only on Wednesdays from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Those needing Pass and ID services on other days need to go to Gate 1 or Gate 2 at NAS Patuxent River.
Child and Adolescent Anxiety Disorders Sept. 20, 7-9 p.m. Hanko Building at Beckett Field, New Carrollton, Md. Presented by Dr. Erin D. Berman, clinical psychologist at the National Institute of Mental Health in Bethesda, the seminar includes the common signs and symptoms of youth anxiety, what parents can do to help, understanding treatment options and current research studies at the National Institute of Mental Health in pediatric anxiety. For more information, call 301-429-0970.
Future Leaders of the World volunteers Future Leaders of the World, or FLOW, at Green Holly Elementary School is looking for mentors for 8-10 students. FLOW meetings are 4-5:30 p.m. Thursdays starting Oct. 4 and ending in May. Mentors work directly with students helping with homework and assisting in planned projects. To volunteer, contact Lynne Baker at lbbaker@smcps.org or 301-863-4064.
Free classified advertisements Having a yard sale? Have something sitting at Auto Rama? Trying to get your house rented? Did you know military service members can advertise in the Tester classifieds for free? For more information or to have your announcement advertised, call Comprint Inc., at 301-670-2503. Tell them you want it in the Tester.
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Thursday, August 30, 2012
Tester
New UAS training school welcomes Marines By Jamie Cosgrove Program Executive Office Unmanned Aviation and Strike Weapons Public Affairs Future Unmanned Air System, or UAS, operators now have access to a new training and logistics activity in Camp Lejeune, N.C. A team from the Navy and Marine Corps Small Tactical UAS program office (PMA-263) at NAS Patuxent River launched the Training and Logistics Support Activity, or TALSA, in mid-July to Marines from II Marine Expeditionary Force. The activity allows troops to receive UAS training on short notice and expand the previous curriculum to include all Group I UAS assets. Group I UAS assets weigh less than 20 pounds; typically fly at altitudes below 1,200 feet; and fly between 45 minutes to approximately two hours. They include: RQ-11B Raven, Wasp, RQ-20A Puma and RQ-16B THawk UAS. "Consistent training and sustainment support are key components for any weapon system and are integral to the warfighter's mis-
sion success," said Col. Jim Rector, PMA-263 program manager. "After years of operational contingency funding and rapid fielding of numerous small UAS, we identified this as an area that we needed to rapidly improve." Rector said small UAVs provide the battlefield commander an organic capability, within his or her unit, to perform over-the-horizon reconnaissance, surveillance and target acquisition. This reduces operational risks and enhances his or her decision process. Historically, the Marines used other contracts to support their UAS training requirements for the RQ-11B Raven.The newly established TALSA offers classes more frequently with an expanded curriculum, giving Sailors and Marines greater flexibility when going on rapid deployment. Additionally, PMA-263 recruited directly from the Wounded Warrior Project to staff the support activity, giving former service men and women an opportunity Courtesy photo to continue their service in a new capacity. The courses focus on the systems' func- Marines and Sailors visited the 2nd Marine Division training center in Camp tion, employment, maintenance and trou- Lejeune, N.C., July 17 as part of an open house to show the Unmanned Airbleshooting issues. Once trained, UAS opera- craft Systems that they would be learning to use in combat and training.
The training center is now home to the newly established Group I UAS See UAS, Page 11 Training and Logistics Support Activity.
Six Flags Appreciation Day
The Liberty is a component of the Single Sailor Program and sponsors free and reduced-price events for NAS Patuxent River E1-E6 active-duty military. Civilian guests are not allowed to participate unless otherwise stated. For more information, call 301342-4208.
End of Summer Barracks Bash
Today, 5-8 p.m. All single or unaccompanied active-duty E1-E5 are invited to come and enjoy free food, music and fun in your own back yard. For more information, call 301-342-3565.
Bowling with Liberty
Sept. 10, 6-9 p.m., Drill Hall Bowling Center Come to the bowling center and bowl for three hours as we cover the cost! Free pizza and soda are provided until 7:30 p.m., or until supplies run out. Open to all E1-E6 single or unaccompanied active-duty military and one guest age 18 or older. For more information, call 301-342-3565.
Whitewater rafting trip
Register by Sept. 7 Sept. 14-16, West Virginia Trip leaves at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 14 and returns Sunday evening. Cost is $115, which includes camping, five meals, whitewater rafting and transportation. Pre-trip meeting is 6:30 p.m. Sept. 13. Register at the MWR ITT Office in Building 2655 on Cedar Point Road. For more information, call 301-342-3565.
Drill Hall gymnasium floor closing
Sept. 4-30 The Drill Hall gymnasium floor is closing for its annual floor refinishing project.The basketball, racquetball and volleyball courts, and the family-friendly fitness center are closed during the project. The bowling center, indoor pool, free weight room, life circuit center, total body fitness center, cardio fitness room, locker rooms, gear issue and administration offices within Drill Hall will remain open.
Intramural fall sports meetings
Tuesday through Sept. 6 and Sept. 10, 1 p.m. Drill Hall Bowling Center Organizationalmeetingsforfallintramuralsportsteamrepresentativesareonthefollowingdays:bowlingleagues,Tuesday; softball,Wednesday;volleyball,Sept.6;andin-linehockey,Sept. 10. Intramural programs are open to active-duty, reserve and retired military and family, and fitness and sports members and family. To participate, call the Fitness and Sports Office at 301-757-3943.
Customized Creations is moving
Customized Creations is moving to a new location, Building 652 at 47428 Emory Road, located off of Millstone Road, and is closed until September.
Sept. 22; rain date, Sept. 29 Six Flags in Largo, Md. Exclusive use of the park for Naval District Washington ticket holders for Defenders of Freedom Appreciation Day. A Lynyrd Skynyrd concert and a day at Six Flags for $20. The event is open to all DoD civilians and military personnel.The first 5,000 tickets sold are eligible for amusement park entrance and concert. After 5,000, tickets will only be for the amusement park.The NDW region would like to show its appreciation for the people who support and defend this country.Tickets can be purchased at the MWR ITT Office in Building 2655 on Cedar Point Road. For more information, call 301-342-3648.
Pilates Classes at the Energy Zone
Pilates is body conditioning that involves a series of movements performed on the mat. The exercises target the deep postural muscles aimed at building muscle strength and rebalancing the body as well as improving posture, flexibility, coordination, concentration and body control. Classes for all levels and new classes begin in September. Drop-in classes are available. For class times or more information, visit the Fitness and Sports Office or call 301-995-3869.
Total body resistance exercise clinics and classes
Suspension training workouts build true functional strength while improving flexibility, balance and core stability all at once. Once you have completed a 45-minute clinic, you will get a Total body resistance exercise, or TRX, pass which will allow you to take a class or checkout a TRX. Register for a clinic at the Fitness and Sports Office. Clinics are 7-7:45 a.m. on the following days: September, Mondays and Thursdays; October, Thursdays; and November-December, first Thursday of the month. Classes start Sept. 7 and run 7-8 a.m. Fridays. Classes are first come, first serve.
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Capt. Ted Mills
Commanding Officer
Capt. Ben Shevchuk Executive Officer
in this publication, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement 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
Cmd. Master Chief William Lloyd-Owen
Command Master Chief
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Public Affairs Officer
Connie Hempel
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 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 301863-9296.
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Thursday, August 30, 2012
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Tester
Just the facts: Combating West Nile virus By Naval Health Clinic Patuxent River Preventive Medicine Department The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced Tuesday that 2012 has set the record as having the largest West Nile virus outbreak in America since its first detection in 1999.
What is the West Nile virus?
West Nile virus is a mosquitoborne virus first seen in the United States in 1999.
Is the West Nile virus established in the United States now?
Yes, West Nile virus has been documented in every state except Alaska and Hawaii.
How do people get infected with West Nile virus?
By the bite of an infected mosquito.
What is the basic transmission cycle?
Mosquitoes become infected by feeding on infected birds that have had the virus circulating in their bloodstream for a few days. Infected mosquitoes then transmit the virus to humans, other birds and animals by biting them. It is not transmitted from personto-person, such as touching or kissing a person who has the disease, or from a health care worker who has treated someone with the disease.
Can you get West Nile virus directly from birds or other animals?
There is no evidence a person can get West Nile virus from handling either live or dead infected animals. However, as a general precaution, always wear gloves when handling dead animals, including dead birds, and use double plastic bags when disposing of them.
Information taken from the Maryland State Health Department
Is a woman's pregnancy at risk if she becomes infected with West Nile virus?
Besides mosquitoes, can you get West Nile virus directly from other insects or ticks?
There is no documented evidence that a pregnancy is at risk due to infection with West Nile virus.
Infected mosquitoes are the primary means of transmission for West Nile virus. There is no evidence to suggest ticks or other insects have had any role in the cases identified in the United States.
What are the chances of becoming infected with West Nile virus?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, very few mosquitoes—less than 1 percent—are infected, and less than 1 percent of individuals who are actually bitten by an infected mosquito develop severe symptoms. With that in mind, the chance of a person becoming seriously ill from any one mosquito bite is extremely small.
What are the symptoms of West Nile virus infection?
Most people who are infected with West Nile virus experience
Is there a treatment for West Nile virus infection? Courtesy photo
mild flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache and body aches, before fully recovering. In a small number of cases, particularly among the elderly, the disease is much more serious and causes encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain. It is marked by rapid onset of severe headache, high fever, stiff neck, disorientation, muscle weakness, paralysis, coma and occasionally death.
Is there a vaccine against West Nile encephalitis?
A human vaccine is not available, although several companies are working to develop one.
Although there is no specific treatment, medication or cure, the symptoms and complications of the disease can be treated. Most people who get West Nile virus recover from it.
Can you get infected by West Nile virus more than once?
It appears that once a person has been infected with West Nile virus, a natural immunity develops. However, that immunity may decrease over time.
What can I do to reduce my risk of becoming infected with West Nile virus?
New spouse orientation
Wednesday, 9 a.m.to noon This program is for new and not so new military spouses, Learn how to make your military time more successful and enjoyable. Understand military language and customs, benefits and entitlements, as well as the culture of the military family.
Playgroup at Glen Forrest Community Center
Sept. 6, 13, 20 and 27, 10-11 a.m. Moms, dads and caregivers are invited to bring their children for playtime at the Glen Forrest Community Center.
1-2-3-4 Parents All classes are held at the Fleet and Family Support Center, Building 2090 on Bundy Road, unless otherwise noted. To make reservations or to volunteer, call 301-342-4911. Hours of Oper Operation ation Monday-Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Sept. 6, 13 and 20, 4-6 p.m. A three-session program designed to meet the special challenges of parenting children ages 1-4. The program focuses on: developmental stages, disciplining strategies, encouragement skills, building self-esteem and bonding methods.
Exceptional Family Member Program
This is a DoD program that addresses the special needs of
There are a couple of preventative measures to take. Limit exposure. * Stay indoors when mosquitoes are most active: dawn, dusk and early evening. Wear longsleeved shirt, long pants and socks when outdoors. Wear loosefitting clothing to prevent mosquito bites through thin fabric. Use insect repellents. repellents. * Apply Environmental Protection Agency-approved repellent that contains 20-35 percent DEET, or N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide, to exposed skin. DEET in higher concentrations is no more effective. Use DEET sparingly on children and don't apply it to their hands, because they often place them in their eyes and mouths. Avoid contact with eyes, lips and broken or irritated skin. If applying to the face, put a small amount of DEET onto your hands and then carefully spread a thin layer over the face. Remember, wash the DEET off when you are no longer exposed to mosquitoes. * Spray clothing to help prevent bites through the fabric. Use a product that contains either permethrin or DEET. Permethrin is available commercially as 0.5 percent spray formulations. Permethrin is only for clothing and not skin. Do not inhale aerosol formulations of any insect repellent. When using any insect repellent, always follow label directions. * Keep in mind, Vitamin B, ultrasonic devices and 'bug zappers' are not effective when it comes to preventing mosquito bites. Keep them out. * Eliminate mosquito-breeding sites by emptying water from birdbaths, old tires, and other outdoor containers or debris. * Make sure that door and window screens do not have holes.
Where can I get more information on West Nile virus?
Call the Naval Health Clinic Preventive Medicine Department at 301-342-1475 or 301-342-4062.
military families. Sailors who have an Exceptional Family Member with special needs, such as a medical or educational disability, should enroll in the EFMP so the Navy can do its part in caring through appropriate assignments and providing information and referral resources.
Clinical counseling services
Fleet and Family Support Center clinical counseling services can improve the quality of life of service members and their family members by addressing the stressors facing today's military. Stress is often caused by family hardships, marital conflicts, parent and child issues, money concerns, frequent moves, health and environmental factors and other difficulties. To make an appointment, call 202-685-6019.
Financial counseling services
Fleet and Family Support Center Personal Financial Educators can help people take control of their finances, reduce money-related stress and overcome the financial challenges of military life. To make an appointment, contact Jim Walsh at 301-342-5442.
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Thursday, August 30, 2012
Tester
Special Olympics Appreciation September marks Suicide Prevention Awareness Month By Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs
U.S. Navy photo by Personnel Specialist 2nd Class Jheyson Giraldo
Personnel Specialist First Class Roma Douglas, left, is awarded a Certificate of Appreciation from the St. Mary's County Special Olympics Chapter by the Naval Health Clinic Patuxent River's Executive Officer Capt. Sandra Hearn during an awards ceremony Aug. 24. Douglas is the command's volunteer coordinator and is the leading petty officer for the clinic's manpower administration department.
MILLINGTON, Tenn. (NNS) — September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and the Navy is using the month as a launch pad to focus on Navy's ongoing suicide prevention efforts, officials announced in a Naval Administrative Message released Monday. During each week of September, resources will be available to guide discussion on stress navigation and suicide prevention concepts. The weekly concepts to be explored are: building resilience, navigating stress, encouraging bystander intervention to A-C-T (Ask CareTreat), and reducing barriers for seeking support through counseling. The tools and resources are available on www.suicide.navy.mil and www.navynavstress.com. These tools emphasize the themes of dedication, optimism, determination and humor. "Our people are our greatest asset," said Capt. Kurt Scott, Behavioral Health Programs director, Bureau of Naval Personnel. "We're promoting a lifestyle of total fit-
ness—physically, mentally, socially and spiritually—to ensure our Sailors are best able to meet the challenges they will face in today's Navy. These efforts reinforce the Secretary of the Navy's 21st Century Sailor and Marine initiative, as well as support the Chief of Naval Operation's directions. Most importantly, focusing on total fitness puts us on a path to prevent suicides." NAS Patuxent River kicks off Suicide Prevention Awareness Month with an inspirational sunrise event today from 6:15-7 a.m. at the River's Edge Catering and Conference Center. The event offers a personal story of survival as proof that life is worth living. There is also a Laps for Life Team Relay, Life is Worth Living, starting at 10:45 a.m. Sept. 19 at the outdoor track off of Fortin Road where teams will walk or run 17 times around the track because there is a life lost to suicide every 17 minutes nationwide. To register for this relay event, military members can email Angelo.Laberinto@navy.mil or noah.bibb@navy.mil, civilians can email twila.kopaniasz@navy.mil. Registration are due by Sept. 13. For more information about suicide prevention visit www.suicide.navy.mil and www.navynavstress.com.
Around Town Maryland's Best Ice Cream Trail
Until Sept. 7, throughout Maryland Marylanders can get their official "Maryland's Best Ice CreamTrail" passports at www.MarylandsBest.net and search for the geocaches. The program highlights the contributions of Maryland's 495 dairy farms by encouraging people to visit a farm and see what dairy farming is really like, all while enjoying locally produced ice cream.
Oyster Wars cannon on display
Until Sept. 30, Calvert Marine Museum See the original cannon used by the Maryland State Oyster Police Force to control the oyster harvest in the Chesapeake Bay in the 1900s. For information about the history of the cannon and the OysterWars, visit www.DNR.state.md.us/mdconservationhistory/Oyster_Wars_Cannon.asp.
Introduction to Computers
Tuesday, 2-4 p.m. Lexington Park library Learnthecomponents,vocabularyandgeneraluseofpersonal computers. This class is free. Register by calling 301-863-8188.
Evening story time
Wednesday, 6 p.m. Lexington Park, Charlotte Hall and Leonardtown libraries Drop in for family story time.
Art Gallery opening reception
Sept. 6, 5-8 p.m. Lexington Park library Meet local artist Ruth Collins whose artwork is on display in the library's Art Gallery through Sept. 30. Her artwork mainly consists of landscapes and portraits in acrylics. For more information, call 301-863-8188.
LEGO Fun
Sept. 6, 6:30 p.m. Charlotte Hall and Leonardtown libraries Drop in and have fun using the library's LEGO pieces.
Keepin' It Real youth rally
Sept. 8, 3-6 p.m. Great Mills High School Hear former Denver Broncos National Football
League player and youth motivator Steve Fitzhugh during this youth rally for pre-teens. Tickets are $5 at the door or in advance at www.SouthernMarylandYouthMinistries.com.
Books, coffee and conversation
Sept. 10, 1p.m. Leonardtown library Adults are invited to come for free coffee and conversation. Share a book you have read or listened to. For more information, call 301-475-2846.
Book discussion
Sept. 10, 6 p.m. Lexington Park library Discuss "Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience and Redemption" by Laura Hillenbrand. Copies of the book are available at the library. For more information, call 301-863-8188.
Pax River Quilters Guild
Sept. 10, 6:30 p.m. Good Samaritan Lutheran Church, Lexington Park Linda J. Hahn of Frog Hollow Designs is the guest speaker. New members and guest are welcome. Cost is $5. For more information, contact Lois Andereck at grannie98@md.metrocast.net.
Book discussion
Sept. 10, 7 p.m. Charlotte Hall library Discuss, "Weird Sisters" by Eleanor Brown. Copies of the book are available at the library. For more information, call 301-884-2211.
The Heart of the Nation: A Musical Tribute to 9/11
Sept. 11, 7-8:30 p.m. Calvert Library, Prince Frederick Hear this free concert with GrooveSpan Duo vocalist Jennifer Cooper and guitarist Carl Reichelt. This performance commemorates the resilience, camaraderie and patriotism of America, and is inspired by the events of 9/11. The pair will share selections from the musical roots of our nation, including jazz, blues and special arrangements of patriotic songs.
Friends of Calvert Library annual meeting
Sept. 12, 7 p.m. Calvert Library, Prince Frederick Each year Friends of Calvert Library host an annual meeting to elect officers and conduct other official business. This year's meeting is followed by a tour of the library, to include the behind-the-scenes component. Additionally, the Friends will make a donation to the Calvert Library Foundation and a brick in one attendee's honor is laid on the library patio of engraved bricks.
Calvert conversations
Sept. 13, 10-11 a.m. Calvert Library ,Twin Beaches Branch An informal discussion of local history meets the second Tuesday of each month. The topic of discussion at the first meeting is "Oystering on the Bay," with Branch Manager Joan Kilmon leading the conversation. New-timers and old-timers gather together to ask questions, get answers and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea. For more information, call 410-257-2411 or visit www.calvert.lib.md.us.
Research Papers 101
Sept. 13, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Lexington Park library Learn the basics of writing a college-level research paper. The free class covers online research, print sources, library catalog, plagiarism and paraphrasing, citing sources and formatting. Register by calling 301-863-8188.
Back-to-school night
Sept. 13, 6 p.m. Lexington Park library Students and parents can learn about the resources and services the library offers to help with homework and projects. For more information, call 301-863-8188.
Steam Coffin presentation
Sept. 13, 7 p.m. Calvert Marine Museum auditorium Historian and author John Laurence Busch will discuss his book "Steam Coffin" which presents the steamship as a watershed invention that transformed the way humans perceived the world. Busch argues that steam-powered vessels represent the first high technology in human history and were a globalizing trailblazer.
Thursday, August 30, 2012
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Paraloft keeps TPS students dressed for success Photos and story by Doug Miller Tester staff writer
Frank Wilcox sews Velcro onto a flight suit for the application of patches and rating badges. 11:30 p.m. daily, work for the contractor DynCorp. Five of them are retired from the Navy. The job means replacing a scratched helmet visor one day and repairing an aircraft engine cover the next, all while keeping careful track of inventory and staying on top
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Lt. Michael Ross returns gear to the Test Pilot School paraloft after a flight.
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If clothes make the person, the paraloft makes the pilot. And as the students of NAS Patuxent River's Test Pilot School learn how to put all manner of aircraft through their paces, the TPS paraloft keeps them outfitted with virtually everything they wear or carry on their flights, from their helmets to their boots. Interestingly, about the only part of the outfitting of pilots that the paraloft does not handle is parachute-rigging, which is the origin of the term "paraloft." The technicians of the TPS paraloft have plenty to keep them busy. They must procure, store, maintain and repair personal flight and aircraft equipment. With 10 different aircraft platforms, including jets, propeller-driven fixed-wing aircraft, gliders and helicopters, their work is constant. The seven who staff the TPS Paraloft from 6:30 a.m. to
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EPA releases NAS Pax River inspection results Regulatorss evaluate management Regulator practices pract ices and attentiv at tentiveness eness in maintenance and HAZMA HA ZMATT handling n
By Capt. Ben Shevchuk NAS Patuxent River executive officer Results from a recently released Environmental Protection Agency inspection of NAS Patuxent River indicated multiple areas requiring continued vigilance. The inspection assessed the station's and tenants' overall compliance in managing hazardous materials, hazardous waste, storage tanks, storm water and sanitary wastewater systems. NAS Patuxent River Naval Facilities Command, or NAVFAC, staff and attorneys cooperated with the EPA to identify discrepancies and create plans of action to improve the installation's processes. On a positive note, it is evident that organizational managers and coordinators are following the notification, response and reporting procedures for installation oil and hazardous substance spills. NAS Pax River's very name identifies the environmentally important position it holds as an eco-funnel point for major bodies of water on the eastern seaboard. The EPA and Maryland's Department of the Environment are agencies that help us protect the Chesapeake Bay, Patuxent River and all navigable waters associated with the NAS Patuxent River complex. These agencies foster environmental compliance through inspections and, like NAS Pax River's leadership, they want everyone to adhere to
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U.S. Navy photo by Connie Hempel
Environmental Technician John Bean, left, prepares a waste label for a 55gallon drum and Warehouseman Tyrone Smith loads it onto a pallet Aug. 13 at the Hazwaste Warehouse. Naval Facilities Engineering Command Environmental Patuxent River Regulated Waste Program, in conjunction with Haztrain Inc. employees, organizes and manages the efforts related to the generation and disposal of hazardous waste for the NAS Patuxent River and Webster Outlying Field. While there are 65 collateral duty Environmental Coordinators managing HAZMAT and HAZWASTE sites across Pax River, Webster Field and Solomon's locations, promoting Environmental Regulatory Compliance is the responsibility of all hands. rules and regulations. Everyone at Pax River who uses hazardous materials or generates hazardous
waste must be vigilant to know and execute their duties in accordance with local base instructions. Hazardous material usage is governed by NASPAXRIVINST 4010.5B, and the Hazardous Waste instruction is NASPAXRIVINST 5090.5. NAVFAC organizes the efforts of 65 Environmental Coordinators who manage waste sites across the NAS Pax River complex, and there are a number of Pax River
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personnel who manage HAZMAT and HAZWASTE for their organizations in fulltime positions while others perform this work on a collateral-duty basis. However, in the arena of hazardous materials, it is the responsibility of all hands to maintain an environmental compass that promotes regulatory compliance. Are some people becoming complacent in their use of HAZMAT? Are lock out/tag outs on fueling equipment performed 100 percent of the time? What would you say to someone who had walked away from a lab bench, leaving hazardous waste unattended and open to the environment? Over the past few months reports of petroleum-based fuel and oil discharges to the environment have increased. Although a few of these releases have resulted from equipment failure, too many have been caused by human error. For example, it may be an improperly positioned switch, an uncapped drain port or loose fuel/oil line during maintenance actions, with subsequent work performed that leads to fuel/oil discharges. Time is critical at the onset of a release, and established procedures must immediately be set in motion to prevent a minor spill from becoming a major environmental concern. The value of a well informed and qualified organizational spill response team cannot be overstated. Regulators may come aboard the station any time they choose and perform inspections that represent a snapshot of the installation and tenant organizational procedures. Environmental agency representatives are evaluating our management practices and our attentiveness in maintenance and HAZMAT handling. For more information, call the Regulated Waste Program Manager at 301-9953627 or the Spills Program Manager at 301342-1817.
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CNIC completes annual Child, Youth Programs inspection Photo and story by Connie Hempel NAS Patuxent River Public Affairs
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Child development center teacher Tish Eubanks, watches over preschoolers during breakfast Aug. 20. Part of the Commander, Naval Installation Command inspection NAS Patuxent River Child and Youth Programs underwent this month included grading the teacher/child interaction in each class at the CDC and its annex, and at the Youth Center. spection and am pleased with CNIC's help," she said. Child and Youth Programs and services are designed and operated to meet the needs of the military mission and service members and their families. Services are offered to all personnel with base access on a space-available basis with activeduty military taking priority. For more information on youth programs at NAS Patuxent River, visit http://cnic.navy.mil, click on Fleet and Family Readiness, Support Services and NAS Patuxent River Child and Youth Programs, or call any of the CYP agencies on base.
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NAS Patuxent River Child andYouth Programs got a surprise visit this month as it underwent its annual unannounced Commander, Naval Installation Command inspection.The four-day inspection graded the child development center and annex, child development homes and the youth center in three areas: administration, facility health and safety, and programming. "We care deeply for the children and youth in our community and are working hard to offer good opportunities for our military and civilian families," said Capt. Ben Shevchuk, NAS Patuxent River executive officer. "Having CNIC inspect the efforts of our dedicated caregivers and CYP administrators allows us all to improve." And as the CDC's National Association for the Education ofYoung Children accreditation is up for renewal in April, Phyllis Leighton, Child andYouth Programs director, said this CNIC inspection came at a good time. "We like to think of the CNIC inspection as an assist visit rather than an inspection, and this one helped us get ready for our accreditation validation," she said. "Not only do CNIC inspectors give us a basis to improve on, they sometimes identify some things that maybe we haven't covered during our accreditation period." She said one of the recommended improvement areas identified during this year's inspection was the CDC's Standard Operating Procedures. While all the information was there, Leighton said the inspectors recommended reorganizing some of the information for clarification. "They said we were very organized, but our SOPs needed to be refined," she said. Graded criteria in each category ranged from parent involvement and communication, to teacher/student interaction and how the staff responds to suspected neglect and abuse. "It's a really tough rating scale, but I feel it was a good in-
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Thursday, August 30, 2012
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NAVAIR financial analysts recognized for excellence By Andrea Watters NAVAIR Corporate Communication You know you're doing a good job when your teammates nominate you for the Naval Air Systems Command's, or NAVAIR's, second annual AIR 7.8 Award for Excellence in Financial Management Service. It's even more encouraging when 200 people attend the award ceremony, held Aug. 23 at NAS Patuxent River, to honor you as a role model in the Business Financial Manager or Lead BFM category. Sharon Gellerson, Program and Business Analysis Department director, established the award last year to recognize BFMs who focus on customer and program needs to find new methods of meeting or exceeding customer and program expectations. The award also acknowledges an individual's efforts in improving customer services and promoting quality of work life. "All our nominees made significant contributions to our mission by providing superior business, budget and analytical financial management support. You are all role models," Gellerson said of the seven nominated in the BFM category and 13 in the Lead BFM category. Three judges outside the department selected the winners: Julie Johnston, Lead BFM for Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Aircraft (PMA-290), received the excellence award in the Lead BFM category, and Debbie Pilkerton, Tactical Airlift, Adversary and Support Aircraft Program Office (PMA-207) C/KC130 BFM, won the excellence award in the BFM category. Both Johnston and Pilkerton support Program Executive Office Air Anti-Surveillance Warfare, Assault and Special Missions Programs, known as PEO(A). "I feel honored to be nominated and recognized with this award among such deserving candidates from our financial management community," Johnston said. "This award may have my name on it, but it is truly a testament to the outstanding team here in PMA-290. I am very fortunate to be part of such a talented and dedicated group supporting the Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Aircraft." Johnston was nominated for her knowledge and financial management expertise in developing and executing reprogramming strategies and budget reclamas, or justifications,
U.S. Navy photo by Steve Kays
The NAVAIR Program and Business Analysis Department recognized 20 business financial managers Aug. 23 at NAS Patuxent River during the second annual AIR 7.8 Award for Excellence in Financial Management Service ceremony. Front row from left, Donny Rovito, Tracy Vallandingham, Melanie Colvin, Debbie Pilkerton, Julie Johnston, Patricia Graves and Susan Dodge. Back row from left: Kelli Simms, Denise Mallett, Laurie Hale, Michelle Fore, Todd Washington, Joanne Heilmeier, Jeff LeClaire, Sean Case, Kelly Mann, Melissa Miller, Tami Crown and Judy Kellam. Not pictured is Lt. Cmdr. Michael McCarter. that resulted in retaining significant budget authority for NAVAIR and the Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Aircraft enterprise. Her leadership, guidance and daily work effort in leading her BFM team were indispensable in shaping the future of Navy patrol and maritime reconnaissance forces for the next 60 years. Pilkerton, who was also humbled by the award, said, "I felt truly honored to have been nominated for the AIR 7.8 Award for Excellence in Financial Management Service, and I was so surprised to hear my name called amongst all the superior
Bat trapping
U.S. Navy photo by Shannon Slaughter
Brad Steffens from BHE Environmental removes a bat trapped in a net mist net during a bat study conducted in July. With the help of NAS Patuxent River Conservation Director Kyle Rambo and Jackie Smith, NAS Patuxent River natural resources specialist, the environmental division's bat study is used to determine what bats are breeding on the installation and whether any are endangered species. This study was a one-time effort involving a two-pronged approach: trapping with mist nets and recording their echolocation calls using the Anabat recording system. The study confirmed the presence of at least three different species of bats on the installation: Red Bat, Big Brown Bat and Tricolored Bat; none are currently endangered.
nominees. My recognition is a reflection of all the dedicated efforts of my fellow teammates and the great leaders within PMA-207." Pilkerton's C/KC-130 team summarized her attributes as an encouraging role model, whose expertise, quick recognition of potential improvement and her ability to offer competent and proactive direction to her teams improved program planning. Her communication skills fostered a collaborative partnership within her team that achieved improved financial awareness across the C/KC-130 team.
PAX PRO:
Aviation Electrician's Mate 3rd Class Luke Crossley Command: Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 1 Hometo ometown: wn: St. Paul, Minnesota Time in service: service: One year, 10 months Time on station: One year Why did you you join the Navy? Navy? I joined the Navy to honorably serve my country, for educational benefits and to better provide for my family. Most satisfying part part of your your job? Volunteering with the Patuxent River Honor Guard and making a difference in the lives of our fallen service members and their families. What is the most memorable memorable moment in your your Navy Navy career? career? Going to Australia on a P-8A detachment as a VX-1 Pioneer. Achiev chievements ements since repor reportting onboard: onboard: In addition to being a qualified P-8A Electrical Technician, Crossley is a qualified Auxiliary Security Force watch stander and an active volunteer with the NAS Patuxent River Base Color Guard. Crossley was chosen for Pax Pro recognition for his dedication to excellence and initiative by his supervisor Aviation Electrician's Mate 1st Class Richard Fenters.
Pax Pro submissions can be sent to TesterNews@dcmilitary.com.
Thursday, August 30, 2012
Summary of Mishaps By Derek Nelson Naval Safety Center In Norfolk, an E-4 didn't appear to be facing any particular risks as she drove her car down a neighborhood street. It was midday, the street was straight and level, and she was only going 25 mph. The fly in the ointment was that she was adjusting her GPS, which distracted her enough to cause her to crash in to the back of another car. I wonder what the GPS said immediately prior to impact. "Reverse all engines?" "Jump?" A boatswain's mate third class was two or three steps from the top of a ladder— height unspecified, hanging a bird net from the ceiling. I've never hung a bird net, nor have I worked somewhere where they were required but
apparently this place needed one. You can tell because the report noted the E-4 was: "startled by a bird and tried to jump sideways off ladder." His spotter wasn't prepared to catch a fully grown boatswain's mate leaping unexpectedly off a ladder, so he muffed the save. The E-4 hit the deck and broke his wrist. If you're hanging a bird net, wouldn't you maybe expect birds? I'm just curious. In this week's "Sometimes you just have to ask 'why?'", we find an aviation ordnanceman first class and a friend who are working on their motorcycles. The Sailor was just cleaning his bike and minding his own business. The buddy seems to have been doing something more mechanical. Be that as it may, at some point the friend put his motorcycle in gear and let out the clutch. The motorcy-
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cle unsurprisingly lunged forward and knocked the Sailor's motorcycle onto his leg, producing an ankle injury good for a week of limited duty. The report said the Sailor was 41 years old and that he had 36 years of experience. I'm not sure I believe that—I wouldn't let a 5 year old work on any of my internal combustion engines. The question is, how much experience did the friend have, if he wasn't quite sure what would happen when you let out the clutch on a motorcycle that is in gear? In this week's "Here's another mishap that John Paul Jones didn't have to worry about," we have an aviation electronics technician sec-
ond class who is at home, about a half-hour before midnight. He's playing video games with some buddies. After a particularly noteworthy video ploy; for example, had they been playing "ModernWarfare 3," taking out two guys with a single bullet, the Sailor and a buddy gave each other a high five. The Sailor's thumb bent way too far backward. He was on light duty for a week with his thumb in a splint. And they say playing video games isn't physically demanding. That's all for this time, friends and neighbors. Until we meet again, game on. And if anyone has to try playing a video game with a splint on one thumb, let me know how that works out.
Assistance Program known as TAP. The TAP is an intensive 11-month program that starts with a kick-off meeting and ends with the Navy Opportunity Forum. If the company participates, the TAP provides a business consultant and market research to help develop a strategy to transition technology into products ready for delivery to the fleet. Phase II demonstrates the feasibility effort through a prototype/process and has a duration of 18-24 months. The Phase III is non-SBIR dollars. The objective is to transition a company's SBIR effort into products, tools or services that benefit the Navy acquisition program.
How to make SBIR work for you
By its nature, SBIR is a cost-efficient manner of conducting research and development. "The goal and expectation of the program is to stimulate a technological innovation, included in that is the use of innovative technology to reduce lifecycle acquisition costs," SBIR Program Manager Moore said. Some of the efficiency, however, can be attributed to the role of the NAVAIR employee. Another award winner, Mark Beranek, section head of the Information Processing Systems and NetworkingTechnologies Branch, Core Avionics Division, identified four main objectives as he facilitates a connection between the Navy and the small business. The first is to make the requirements clear at the start of the Phase II project, he said.The clearer the project and purpose, the more efficient the company will perform, he said. Next, Beranek emphasizes the importance of introductions to the community, whether military or contractor. "I work very hard to get (the business) linked in with the fleet or prime contractors," he said. Without those key introductions, some of the businesses do not perform as well as they could, Beranek said. The third objective ties closely to the second, but on a more personal level. It is important for the program office sponsors to maintain communication with the small business, continuously acting as a guide and mentor. The most enjoyable part of his role is the fourth, Beranek said. "I don't have to work at this," he said. "It just happens. You've got to have passion for what you are doing and what the small business researchers are doing."
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Thursday,Aug.30 6:30 p.m.,Magic Mike Mike is a man of many talents and loads of charm, he spends his days pursuing the American Dream from as many angles as he can handle: from roofing houses and detailing cars to designing furniture. But at night he's just magic.The hot headliner in an all-male revue, he has been rocking the stage at Club Xquisite for years. Seeing potential in a guy he calls the Kid, Mike takes the 19-year-old under his wing and schools him in the fine arts of dancing, partying, picking up women and making easy money. Rated: R (1 hr, 50 min) Friday,Aug.31 6:30 p.m.,Madea's Witness Protection For years, George Needleman, the gentle chief financial officer of a Wall Street invest-
ment bank, has been living with his head in the clouds. His frustrated second wife, Kate, has reached her limit taking care of his senile mother, Barbara. His teenage daughter, Cindy, is spoiled beyond hope and his sevenyear-old son, Howie, wishes his father were around more. But George is finally forced to wake up when he learns that his firm, Lockwise Industries, has been operating a mobbacked Ponzi scheme—and that he's been set up as the fall guy. Rated: PG13 (1 hr, 54 min) 9 p.m.,Seeking a Friend for the End of theWorld A 70-mile-wide asteroid is en route to Earth, and the last best attempt to counter it has failed. Also failing is the marriage of soft-spoken insurance salesman Dodge; the breaking news the world will end in an estimated 21 days cues his
wife to leave him on the spot. Dodge is a man who has always played by the rules of life, while his neighbor Penny is an extroverted woman who hasn't. When a riot breaks out around their apartment building, Dodge realizes that he must seek his wife out before it's too late while Penny makes the decision to spend her last days with family in England. On the road together, the unlikely traveling companions' respective personal journeys accelerate, and their outlooks-if not the world's—brighten. Rated: R (1 hr, 41 min) Saturday,Sept.1 4 p.m.,Madea'sWitness Protection Rated: PG13 (1 hr, 54 min) 6:30 p.m.,Seeking a Friend for the End of theWorld Rated: R (1 hr, 41 min)
9 p.m.,Magic Mike Rated: R (1 hr,50 min) Free showing Sunday,Sept.2 2,p.m.Madagascar 3 (not in 3D) AlextheLion,MartytheZebra,GloriatheHippo,andMelmantheGiraffearestillfighting togethometotheirbelovedBig Apple and of course, King Julien, Maurice and the Penguins are all along for the comedicadventure.TheirjourneytakesthemthroughEurope wheretheyfindtheperfectcover:atravelingcircus,whichthey reinvent—Madagascar style. Rated: PG (1 hr, 43 min) Monday and Tuesday No movies Wednesday,Sept.5 6:30 p.m.,Madea's Witness Protection Rated: PG13 (1 hr, 54 min)
tors can tactically and effectively employ Group 1 systems to include mission planning, mission sensor/payload operations, launching, remotely piloting and recovering the aerial vehicle. PMA-263 plans to establish an additional TALSA at Camp Pendleton, Calif. later this year. "Our job at PMA-263 is to ensure we provide and support the products that "find and fix" our nation's adversaries and threats," Rector said. "This allows our Sailors and Marines to do what they do best, and that is to "finish" those threats."
PARALOFT Continued from 7 valves on oxygen masks, exposed to excess moisture during flights, tend to stick. While the TPS paraloft holds plenty of the latest in pilot paraphernalia, it's also something of a museum of the history of aviation gear and the school itself. Flags from the myriad nations that have sent pilots to the TPS hang from the rafters, as do flight equipment from previous eras. One such item originally served the pilot of a MiG 21. The fullpressure body suit provides irrefutable proof of the premium the Soviet makers of the fighter jet placed upon having space-saving pilots in its cockpit. Gulley recalls putting a small woman in the suit. Even after loosening its lacings as much as possible, "she could barely get into it." Gulley said she also sees part of her job as providing a sort of home away from home for the students of the school's intensive program. "Theguys(ontheshopstaff)givemeahardtimeaboutit," she said, "but I try to make this place a respite for these folks."
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New device boosts Navy's ability to inspect and repair aircraft engines By Rachel Lytle NAWCAD Public Affairs intern
U.S. Navy photo by Mikel Proulx
Nick Amabile, product development and in-service engineer for the Aviation Support Equipment Program Office, demonstrates how to use the Common Video Borescope Set on a "retired" F/A-18 parked July 18 at Joint Base McGuire-DixLakehurst, N.J. Approved for production and delivery to the fleet in May, the Common Video Borescope Set is used to inspect interior engine components and airframes for cracks, corrosion and other debris that can harm Navy and Marine Corps aircraft.
The Navy has recently developed a device that is doing for aircraft inspections what colonoscopies have done for cancer detection. Approved for production and delivery to the fleet this past May, the Common Video Borescope Set, or CVBS, is used to inspect interior engine components and airframes for cracks, corrosion and other debris that can harm Navy and Marine Corps aircraft. "Compressor blades rotating in an aircraft engine power naval aviation on a daily basis, but anything accidentally entering the engine intake can create nicks and chip the blades," said Lt. Cmdr. Francini Clemmons, assistant deputy program manager for nondestructive inspection equipment, who oversees the CVBS project for the Aviation Support Equipment Program Office (PMA-260). "Instead of taking the engine apart, the video borescope allows inspectors to look into the jet engine, saving time and energy." The borescope will not only bring commonality to the fleet and revolutionize the way the Department of the Navy inspects aircraft and engines but it will also provide realtime digital images and video for examination, Clemmons added. "The CVBS can be likened to a colon screening, but ours is kinder and gentler to the aircraft," he said. "It will instantly increase the efficiency and effectiveness of our inspection procedures." The CVBS is a naval modified version of a commercialoff-the-shelf product and will support all aircraft platforms requiring video borescope inspections of their airframes
and engines. Marking an important acquisition milestone, "initial operating capability" is scheduled for September when units are delivered to Sailors and Marines. The CVBS offers many advantages over its varied predecessors, PMA-260 officials said. While previous borescopes in the naval inventory detected engine debris with a rigid probe and generated low-quality, black-and-white pictures, the CVBS has a 2-meter long, flexible, insertion tube that captures photos and video images on a 3.7-inch color screen. Technicians will use a joystick to maneuver the device's insertion tube, giving them a 360-degree view of hard-to-see places. All CVBS handsets are capable of defect measurement and offer two hours of battery operation. The CVBS Type V variant comes with a working channel and tools that can retrieve debris. At 3.74 pounds, the CVBS is also less expensive and lighter than its 30-pound predecessors. Many of the 27 varieties of legacy borescope systems could cost as much as $30,000 per unit, Clemmons said. The Navy plans to buy 960 CVBS units at an approximate cost of $15,000 each. Marc Donohue, nondestructive inspection Common Support Equipment integrated program team lead for PMA-260, said he has received positive feedback from both fleet and fleet support team personnel who have used the CVBS during the test and evaluation phase. "The unit is ruggedized, highly portable and over 80 percent lighter than many of the legacy units it replaces," Donohue said. "The CVBS improves equipment survivability and reliability while providing enhanced capability. The
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Continued from 12 program achieves cost-wise readiness at less than 50 percent of the CVBS program's cost objective and at only 31 percent of the cost of sustaining legacy system requirements."
Capt. Ben Shevchuk, NAS Patuxent River executive officer, chats with Ecology students on the first day of school at Spring Ridge Middle School in Lexington Park. Shevchuk joined a group of local St. Mary's County community leaders who visited area schools to help welcome students back to class.
About the Aviation Support Equipment Program Office
The Aviation Support Equipment Program Office manages the procurement, development and fielding of common ground support equipment and automatic test equipment, which support every type, model and series of aircraft within the Naval Aviation Enterprise. Paula A. Paige, AIR-1.0 Program Management Public Affairs, contributed to this article.
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U.S. Navy photo by Gary Younger
Chief select Hospital Corpsman Alvin Cotson, left, and Master Chief Avionics Maintenance Administrationman Richard Haninger, Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (HX) 21 command master chief, cut a cake during the NEX Chief Petty Officer Selectee appreciation event Aug. 26. Cotson is holding his daughter, Kiyomi. NEX showed its appreciation to the new crop of chief selects by treating their families to food, games and prizes provided by the store, and local vendors and restaurants.
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