Peterson Space Observer December 7, 2017

COMMANDER’S CORNER: FINANCIAL HEALTH IN THE NEW YEAR - PAGE 2 Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado

Thursday, December 7, 2017

Vol. 61 No. 48

Air power and the defense of Pearl Harbor

By Steve Kotecki 21st Space Wing Public Affairs

PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. — This year marks the 76th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, that spurred the United States into WWII. While Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado and the Air Force itself had yet to be established, this event was a pivotal moment for the United States and what would eventually become the Air Force.

Here on Peterson AFB we commemorate the history of one aircraft that played a part in the defense of Pearl Harbor and a large role in the rest of the war.

Located on the corner of Peterson Boulevard and Ent Avenue is an accurate scale replica of the Curtiss P-40 Warhawk, a plane that saw a great deal of service before, and during, WWII. “The P-40 was the U.S. Army’s best fighter aircraft available in large numbers when WWII began in 1939,” said Jeff Nash, Peterson Air and Space Museum assistant director and curator.

When Japanese forces attacked Pearl Harbor, on Dec. 7, 1941, US forces were taken completely by surprise and only a handful of pilots were able to get their fighters into the air.

“At least six P-40s managed to take off and engage Japanese aircraft during the surprise attack,” Nash said.

Pilots George Welch and Kenneth Taylor,

See Pearl Harbor page 5

(U.S. Air Force Photo by Steve Kotecki)

PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. —A replica Curtiss P-40 Warhawk on display at Peterson Air Force Base, Colo., Dec. 1, 2017. The replica is on loan from the Wright-Patterson Air Force Museum. It is painted in the livery of the P-40 trainers that were used at Peterson Field in 1944.

Space Tactics Internship inspires creativity among operators Air Force Space Command Public Affairs

AFSPC commander becomes JFSCC, joint space forces restructure Air Force Space Command Public Affairs

PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. — Space operations groups from across Air Force Space Command have collaborated with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Lincoln Laboratory on a Space Tactics Internship that allows space operators to work with scholastic experts in a research environment.

Col. Troy Endicott, executive officer to the AFSPC commander, initiated the program in 2016 when he was the 21st Operations Group commander at Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado.

The program accepts 15 total AFSPC operators a year from the 21st Space Wing, the 50th SW at Schriever Air Force Base, Colorado, and the 460th SW at Buckley AFB, Colorado.

“This internship is a great opportunity to take our sharpest space tacticians and expand their thinking, to envi-

See Internship page 8

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. — Air Force Gen. Jay Raymond, commander of Air Force Space Command, became the Joint Force Space Component Commander today, taking operational responsibility for employment of all joint space forces.

Air Force Gen. John Hyten, commander of U.S. Strategic Command, presided over the ceremony, inactivating USSTRATCOM’S Joint Functional Component Command for Space. The inactivation is part of a broader USSTRATCOM restructure of its components to build a coherent and streamlined warfighting structure to improve the nation’s space warfighting effectiveness, which ultimately enhances the lethality of U.S. joint forces.

The ceremony marked the initial operating capability, or IOC, for the new structure.

“This is a significant milestone,” said Raymond.

“We are now focused on further integrating space…on taking tried and proven methods of joint warfighting, and applying them to the space domain to ensure normalization across all mission sets.”

(Courtesy photo)

LEXINGTON, Mass. — Capt. Stefanie Coward, a deputy flight commander with the 1st Space Operations Squadron, attends the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Lincoln Laboratory during her Space Tactics Internship, October 2017, at Lexington, Massachusetts. The program encourages space operators from across Air Force Space Command to think creatively and critically on how best to further the evolution of space tactics across multiple domains.

See Restructure page 4

INSIDE News Briefs Crossword Classifieds

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Angel Tree provides Christmas cheer

A layer of defense watching the sky

Bringing in the holidays

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SPACE OBSERVER Thursday, December 7, 2017

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21ST SPACE WING

COMMANDER’S CORNER

Financial health in the New Year PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo.

— Big holiday dinners with your family and friends, vacations to far-flung locations, and the joy on a child’s face when they open the perfect present. The holiday season is indeed full of priceless moments.

But they don’t come cheap and those big dinners, travel expenses, piles of presents, and a myriad of other holiday-related expenses can do serious damage to any spending plan.

It’s no surprise then that many New Year’s resolutions involve improving financial health in the coming year. But where to start? Well, below are five tried-and-true strategies that can help guide you towards financial success.

1. Establish SMART financial goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-bound. For instance, replacing generic goals such as “pay off debt,” or “save for retirement” with clear goals such as “pay off $2,000 of credit card debt by the end of the year,” or “save $300 per month for retirement” will make it much more likely that you will stick with and realize your goals.

2. Establish a spending plan. Identify your income and expenses and then develop a plan on how you would like to spend your money in the coming year. Remember that once you have a spending plan, it’s important to stick with it and try to reduce impulse buys.

3. Prioritize debts. Track all of your debts and organize them by their annual interest rates. Then develop a repayment plan that avoids late fees on all of the debts while prioritizing repayment of the high-interest debts first.

Remember that paying off debt represents a risk-free and tax-free return equal to the interest you avoid paying.

4. Automate your savings. Set up a regular monthly savings amount to a deposit account(s) that goes out the same day you get paid. This helps you follow

through on your savings goals because the cash is drawn directly from your bank before you can get your hands on it and buy today’s

By Maj. must-have item. Remember to re-evaluate your savings amount regularly and increase Scott Schofield it whenever you receive a promotion or salary increase.

21st Contracting 5. Save for retirement. While many of us are still young and bullet-proof (some more Squadron than others), retirement will come before you know it. Two great ways to save for retirement are through employer-provided plans such as 401(k) plans and the government’s Thrift Savings Plan, or through Traditional and Roth Individual Retirement Accounts. Remember to only save amounts that you can realistically afford, as contributing more may result in having to incur costly debt to cover everyday expenses.

Of course, these five strategies are merely intended as a rough guide since financial planning strategies can be very complex and vary wildly depending on your unique circumstances. Therefore, it is usually wise to seek the advice of a financial planner or accountant before engaging in a new investment strategy.

Fortunately, for those of us without professional advisers on retainer, the 21st Force Support Squadron has a Personal Financial Readiness Team that can provide information, education, and personal financial counseling that can help you maintain financial stability and reach your financial goals.

They’re a great resource if you’re interested in learning more about financial planning, credit and debt management, home and car buying, saving, investing, consumer protection, and general money management.

You can find additional information about the services they provide by visiting https://www.21fss.com/about/airman-family-readiness/personal-financial-readiness/ or calling 719-556-6141.

Happy New Year!

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Impaired driving dangerous to all

By Dave Smith 21st Space Wing Public Affairs staff writer

PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. — Before the hour passes, one person in the United States will die in a motor vehicle accident involving an alcohol-impaired driver.

Drugs, beside alcohol, were involved in about 1 million of the total 6.3 million accidents in 2015. These statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration paint a telling picture.

December is Impaired Driving Awareness month for 21st Medical Group at Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado.

Their aim is to discourage impaired driving of any type, whether from alcohol or any type of drugs, during the holiday season.

“We try to pick appropriate themes throughout the year,” said Col. Michael Wood, 21st MDG deputy commander.

“Around the holidays impaired driving becomes more of an issue. It’s not like we are trying to tell our people not to have fun, but we are telling them not to drive while impaired.”

The most important recommendation Wood offered to prevent impaired driving is to simply have a plan.

“In the military having a plan is second nature,” said Wood. “Have multiple backup plans, too. Moderate your drinking, don’t binge.”

Backup plans are easy enough to prepare with the availability of recall rosters and groups like Airmen Against Drunk Driving. He said slowing down and having a plan is effective in preventing impaired driving. Planning helps avoid situations that will bring trouble, as well.

Impaired driving accidents cause farther reaching issues.

Wood named legal, disciplinary, injury and injury to others as a few of them.

“It impacts far more than just the individual,” he said.

The results of impaired driving can require resilience,

Drinks are NOT equal!

12 oz. of regular beer

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5 oz. of table wine

12% 5%

alcohol

7%

alcohol

1.5 oz. shot of 80-proof spirits

40% alcohol

alcohol

Alcohol content varies (Courtesy graphic)

Wood said. Resiliency is about bouncing back to an object’s original shape, and available resources play an important role in that process.

Unlike rubber balls that regain original shape quickly, people are different. Sometime, he said, people bounce back, but at other times there are factors involved hindering the ability to bounce back. Others are needed, in those occasions, to help.

“In the military a lot of things knock us out of our original

shape,” said Wood. “We need to be well prepared and have someone to help us bounce back.”

Helping in the resiliency arena are groups like Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment — the 21st MDG’s substance abuse program — the Airman & Family Readiness Center, family advocates and wingmen. The social aspect of resilience is one that is often overlooked, Wood said.

“The base has many resources,” he said. “We want to focus on getting Airmen back into the fight.”

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BASE BRIEFS HOLIDAY PARTY

The 21st Space Wing Holiday Party is scheduled for Dec. 15 at The Club. Please contact Master Sgt. Crystal Coleman, kristal. coleman@us.af.mil, to register. The event is free for Airmen and their families.

RETIREE ACTIVTIES OFFICE

The Military Retiree Activities office will hold its monthly council meeting Dec. 14th at 2:30 p.m. in Building 350, Room 1206 on Peterson AFB, Colorado. The guest speaker will be Rhonda

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(U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Kyla Gifford)

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Gen. Jay Raymond, commander of Air Force Space Command, accepts the guidon from Gen. John Hyten, commander of U.S. Strategic Command, as he becomes the Joint Force Space Component Commander Dec. 1, 2017. In Raymond’s dual-hatted roles as both commander of AFSPC and as JFSCC, he will be responsible for the organizing, training and equipping of Air Force space forces as well as for executing operational command and control of joint space forces. role we play as USSTRATCOM’s Air Force AFSPC at Peterson AFB, Colorado.

Service Component.

Air Force Lt. Gen. David Buck, relin“What has occurred here today — the quished command of 14th AF and retired creation of a Joint Force Space Component after serving in the Air Force for more than From page 1 Commander — will help change the collec- 40 years. tive mindset of space forces from providers The USSTRATCOM restructure is inThis action will not change AFSPC’s mis- of space capabilities to warfighters,” said tended to build a simple and coherent orsion. In his dual-hatted roles as both com- Raymond. ganizational structure, enabling cleaner mander of AFSPC and as JFSCC, Raymond No positions are being created or elimiwill be responsible for the organizing, nated as part of the restructure. The former command and control of forces and lines training and equipping of Air Force space JFCC Space staff will form the core of the of authority. The restructure brings the forces as well as for executing operational new JFSCC staff to enable Raymond to ef- command more in line with that of other command and control of joint space forces. fectively command the joint space forces. combatant commands. In addition to the This will increase integration with the othAlso as part of the day’s ceremonies, JFSCC, USSTRATCOM has a Joint Force er USSTRATCOM operational component Air Force Maj. Gen. Stephen Whiting Air Component Commander and will commanders. While Raymond will have two took command of 14th Air Force and have a Joint Force Maritime Component separate staffs; they will be fully synchro- also became the Deputy Joint Force Space nized to enhance joint space warfighting Component Commander. Whiting was the Commander. JFCC Integrated Missile capability and OT&E efforts. Additionally, JFSCC Integration Team Lead and Director Defense remains in place until the concluAFSPC has been designated Air Forces of Integrated Air, Space, Cyberspace sion of the Ballistic Missile Defense Review, Strategic-Space (AFSTRAT-Space) to high- and Intelligence, Surveillance and at which point it will be restructured as aplight and strengthen that critical warfighting Reconnaissance Operations at Headquarters propriate and required.

Restructure

Published by Colorado Springs Military Newspapers Group, 235 S. Nevada Avenue, Colorado Springs, 80903, a private firm in no way connected with the U.S. Air Force, under exclusive written contract with the 21st Space Wing. This commercial enterprise Air Force newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the U.S. military services.

Contents of the Space Observer are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense or the Department of the Air Force.

The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by DoD, the Department of the Air Force, or CSMNG, of the products or services advertised.

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Editorial content is edited, prepared and provided by the 21st Space Wing Public Affairs Office, 775 Loring Ave., Suite 219, Peterson AFB, Colo., 80914-1294, (719) 556-5185 or DSN 834-5185, fax (719) 556-7848 or DSN 834-7848. All photographs are Air Force photographs unless otherwise indicated.

The Space Observer is published every Thursday. For advertising inquiries, call Colorado Springs Military Newspapers, (719) 634-5905. Employees of Peterson Air Force Base who want to place a free classified advertisement should call (719) 329-5210.

Articles, announcements, news briefs or feedback for the Space Observer should be submitted to the 21st SW/PA via space. observer@us.af.mil. For further information, call 21st SW/PA at (719) 556-5185 or DSN 834-5185 or e-mail space.observer@us.af. mil. Deadline for article submission is noon the Friday one week before publication. All articles, copy and announcements submitted will be edited to conform to AFI Series 35 and the Associated Press Stylebook and Libel Manual.

For information in the event of a Peterson Air Force Base emergency, contact the Straight Talk line at (719) 556-9154.

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Angel Tree provides Christmastime cheer

If you are having an...

(U.S. Air Force photo by Dave Smith)

PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. – Tech. Sgt. David Rediger, 302nd Airlift Wing Civil Engineer Squadron Explosive Ordinance Disposal, technician, takes a moment to view the angels on the Angel Tree in the entryway of the 21st Mission Support Group headquarters in building 350 at Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado Dec. 1, 2017. The program on Peterson AFB is operated by the Peterson AFB chapel. The goal is to reach members of the Team Pete family, who are going through a tough time, by providing gifts for children during the holiday.

From Nov. 15-Dec. 13, interested people can go to a tree, remove an angel and purchase the item listed for that particular child.

By Dave Smith 21st Space Wing Public Affairs staff writer

PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo.

— When events of life intercede, happy holidays can be a challenge for some families. Should a temporary duty assignment, financial struggles or another issue arise, the Angel Tree program can help out.

The Angel Tree concept began nationally in 1982 to help children in need. The program on Peterson Air Force Base, Colo. is operated by the Peterson AFB chapel. The goal is to reach members of the Team Pete family who are going through a tough time.

From Nov. 15-Dec. 13, interested people can go to a tree, remove an angel and purchase the item listed for that particular child. Once purchased, gifts are dropped at the chapel and gathered for distribution. The program is anonymous for recipients and givers. Only chapel staff is privy to some information to assure the gifts get to the intended child.

Pearl Harbor From page 1 are credited with shooting down four Japanese aircraft during the defense of Pearl Harbor. With this action the P-40 cemented itself in combat aviation history.

Within two weeks the First American Volunteer Group of the Chinese Air Force, nicknamed the Flying Tigers, composed of three squadrons of P-40s, struck back at the Japanese who were bombing China and Burma, known today as Myanmar.

Throughout the war the P-40 saw ac-

“There are about 350 requests, so far,” said Staff Sgt. Wallace Pallicer, chapel assistant.

The number of requests increased over the last couple of years. About 300 children were submitted during each of those seasons.

To maintain anonymity, numbers are assigned to recipients then applied to angels along with requests. Name, gender, age, wants, needs and sizes, as needed, are required to accompany each submission. Gifts can be placed in collection boxes next to the Angel Trees, or dropped at the chapel.

Gifts are gathered, wrapped and sorted Dec. 14-15 and afterward distributed to first sergeants for delivery.

Angel Trees are located in the Peterson chapel, fitness center, 21st Mission Support Group headquarters in building 350, Air Force Space Command headquarters, and North American Aerospace Defense Command/ U.S. Northern Command headquarters.

For more information, contact Pallicer at (719) 556-4442.

tion in just about every theater around the world.

As the war continued and new fighter craft like the P-47 Thunderbolt and P-51 Mustang started to replace the P-40s on the front lines, the planes were brought to Peterson Field, which became modern day Peterson AFB to be used for fighter pilot training.

“The colors and markings of the display P-40 represent the 268th Army Air Forces Base Unit which trained pilots here from the summer of 1944 to the summer of 1945,” said Nash.

While Peterson AFB was not directly involved in the defense of Pearl Harbor, Team Pete still honors the efforts of the men and women who were through the display of this aircraft.

N E OP E S U HO

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A layer of defense watching the sky

By Sgt. 1st Class Claudio Tejada 94th Army Air and Missile Defense Command

JOINT BASE PEARL HARBORHICKAM, Hawaii — With a constant threat of ballistic missile launches by North Korea, the Army maintains forward Army Navy/Transportable Radar Surveillance Systems, otherwise known as AN/TPY-2, on mainland Japan to keep a watchful eye above the skies scanning for threats.

The responsibility in keeping a watchful eye falls to a small group of Soldiers stationed in remote areas at Kyogamisaki, and Shariki, Japan. The location of the two radar sites are unique in that it provides regional defense for Japan while also significantly improving the defense of the United States.

The Soldiers in these units operate high resolution, phased array, X-band radars designed and built specifically for the U.S. missile defense missions. The radars can perform air surveillance to very high altitudes, identify and track aerial targets including incoming ballistic missiles. The radar also has the ability to differentiate between warheads or space debris.

The 10th Missile Defense Battery located at the Shariki Communications Site in Shariki have been operational since 2006. This was the first AN/TPY-2 Radar installation in Japan and also the first new U.S. military installation to open there since the end of World War II. The AN/TPY-2 radar is integrated with the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense and serves as its primary sensor. The radar’ mis-

(U.S Air Force Photo by Staff Sgt. Perry Aston)

JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii -- Soldiers from the 94th Army Air Missile Defense Command, attached to the 613th Air Operations Center Pacific Air Forces, track a ballistic missile that was launched from North Korea, Sept 14, 2017 at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam. sion is to track the late stages of the missile course enabling the THAAD’s capability to intercept both outside the atmosphere and once a reentry vehicle enters the atmosphere.

The 14th Missile Defense Battery is the newest radar unit located at the Kyogamisaki Communications Site and has been operational since October 2014. Since then, both units have been in the constant watch with recent events in the Korean peninsula.

Their mission is to pass highly accurate missile track data to sensor managers in the Air and Space Operations Center, located at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, and sensor mangers throughout the United States.

“We provide the strategic level early warning for all ballistic missiles launched from North Korea that have the potential to impact the United States homeland,” said 1st

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The information received by the AN/TPY2 radar is critical data.

Both units also works closely with the 100th Missile Defense Brigade based in Colorado Springs, Colorado feeding data and cueing various radar sensors throughout US Army Strategic Command and PACOM. Data collected shared with joint branches and allies, provides early warning and detection of hostile missile launches as part of the U.S. Pacific Command missile early warning architecture and greatly enhances the defense of U.S. Pacific Command assets and the continental United States.

“This information cues the various sensors located throughout the Pacific to ensure any intercept vehicle will accurately engage the warhead,” he added.

Once a detection of a possible threat has been detected, either through space based, naval, or elevated sensors, Soldiers from the 94th Army Air and Missile Defense Command can either engage the threat or, if capable, pass the engagement to an assets that is able to range the target.

“The 14th MDB has successfully tracked and processed all ballistic missile launches originating from North Korea,” said Bond.

“The unit is extremely efficient and we provide updates to entities across USARJ, PACOM, STRATCOM and NORTHCOM.” With the increase of threats from North Korea, the Soldiers from the 10th Missile Defense Battery and 14th Missile Defense Battery remain focus as being the nations “First Line of Defense.”

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Cavalier breaks ground on new dorm

By Tech. Sgt. Shawn Thompson 10th Space Warning Squadron

CAVALIER AIR FORCE STATION, N.D. — The 10th Space Warning Squadron held a ground breaking ceremony November 7, 2017 at Cavalier Air Force Station, North Dakota to celebrate the start of construction on a new 5,683-squarefoot unaccompanied dormitory.

The current dorm on Cavalier AFS was the second structure completed on the site in the early 1970s. While it has gone through renovations over the years, it was in need of replacement. The new dorm will alleviate many maintenance and potential safety issues, significantly improving the living conditions for dorm residents.

“As the Air Forces only Continental United States isolated installation, life at Cavalier AFS can be arduous at times for our members,” said Lt. Col. Stephen Hobbs, 10th SWS commander. “Improving the quality of life for all of our members and families is one of our top priorities.”

The $3 million dormitory will accommodate up to eight unaccompanied Airman when finished. Construction costs at Cavalier are impacted by the remote nature of the station and the fact that some construction materials need to be transported more than 90 miles.

“This dormitory will be a massive technical, environmental and safety improvement for the station,” said Capt. Victor Guinn, 10th SWS mission support officer. “All residents will experience an upgrade that is the equivalent of going from a 1970’s trailer, to a modest and comfortable modern apartment.”

“I look forward to seeing it get completed and become a lasting fixture on Cavalier Air Force Station,” said Hobbs.

The new dorms are scheduled to be completed in the fall of 2018.

(U.S. Air Force photo by TSgt Wayne Gibson)

CAVALIER AIR FORCE STATION, N.D. — Participating in the ground breaking ceremony for the new, $3 million dormitories, Nov. 7, 2017 at Cavalier Air Force Station, N.D., from left-to-right, Craig Tweten, Community Contractors; Lt. Col. Marc Brock, 21st Operations Group deputy commander; Lt. Col. Stephen Hobbs, 10th Space Warning Squadron commander; Chief Master Sgt. David Pesch, 21st Operations Group command chief; and Mr. Bruce Johnson, Army Corps of Engineers.

Internship From page 1

(Courtesy photo)

WESTFORD, Mass. — Capt. Stefanie Coward, a deputy flight commander with the 1st Space Operations Squadron (far right), joins her classmates 2nd Lt. Kevin Horner, 10th Space Warning Squadron (far left), Staff Sgt. Robert Hales, 7 SWS (middle left) and 1st Lt. Brandon Hufstetler, 2 SWS, at the Millstone Hill Radar in Westford, Massachusetts, October 2017. They worked at this radar and other sites as part of the Space Tactics Internship Air Force Space Command has with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Lincoln Laboratory to encourage space operators to think creatively and critically on how best to further the evolution of space tactics across multiple domains.

sion their operations in a warfighting domain, and be taught from the best to address growing threats,” Endicott said.

“When we originally discussed goals of the program with MIT LL, I asked that they return our operators dissatisfied with our current way of doing business, more energized and motivated to think and lead their peers differently.”

“I’m so pleased with the program and am thrilled to see space operators across AFSPC growing as tactical warfighters,” he added.

The Space Tactics Internship is a fourweek program where interns receive over 120 hours of hands-on instruction with MIT LL operators, engineers and analysts at the Lexington Command, Control and Collaboration Testbed and Lincoln Space Surveillance Complex, both located in Massachusetts.

MIT LL is a federally funded research and development laboratory that is aimed at creating solutions to problems critical to national security and is a place where innovative ideas and tactics can be fostered and tested. The 14th Air Force detachment at MIT LL organizes and leads the internship with the support of the MIT LL staff.

The program was created with the Space Mission Force in mind, allowing for enlisted, officer and civilian participants. The internship encourages space operators to think creatively and critically on how best to use information from the course to further evolve Department of Defense space tactics across multiple domains.

Senior Airman Jake Pullen, a staff evaluator with the 16th Space Control Squadron at Peterson AFB, believes this internship is vital to the Space Mission Force. The objective of the SMF is to advance the knowledge and skills of AFSPC space operators to better function in today’s contested space environment.

“We must use every resource we have

available to propel the mission forward,” said Pullen. “Attending the internship is one of the best ways to do that.”

The interactions between space operators across the spectrum increase awareness of mission possibilities while allowing a creative and critical thinking approach to evolve space war fighting tactics.

“The skills and knowledge I have obtained from the internship have allowed me to find new ways to encourage my fellow Airmen to dig deep into the system and identify previously unrealized potential,” said Pullen. “The relationship built with MIT LL has also allowed the crossflow of information and resources, making our system and personnel better prepared to complete the mission.”

Capt. Stefanie Coward, a deputy flight commander with the 1st Space Operations Squadron at Schriever AFB, who attended the internship at a different time, went further adding that her mentors from the program are actively helping her now with some new projects.

“Getting the opportunity to step away from operations and talk to people who aren’t operators helps me to approach problems in a different way,” Coward said. “It allows us to be creative with how we solve problems now.”

Not only did Coward and Pullen both get to work with professionals within MIT LL, attending the space tactics internship allowed them to work with other space operators from across AFSPC. “This internship is one of the few opportunities we get as space operators to interact with people who work in different mission sets,” Coward said. “It was great getting to know them and how they work.”

As the program moves into a new year, Coward stressed that all space operators should take up the opportunity to learn at MIT LL. “This program provides value to every space operator who attends because the lab has such broad reaching mission areas and capabilities they are constantly working with,” she said. “People should absolutely take advantage of this incred-

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Bringing in t Holiday cookie traditions PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. — From Mollie Raymond (wife of Gen. Jay Raymond, Air Force Space Command/Joint Force Space Component commander) Over this past Thanksgiving holiday, I asked my kids “If I were to bake only one type of Christmas cookie, which one would you choose?”

All three said “the ones with jelly and frosting.” I knew exactly what they meant. I’ve been making these holiday cookies as long as I can remember.

I love how festive they look and everyone else in my family loves the flavor...so it’s a “win-win!”

DENVER, Colo. — A musician plays holiday music 1, 2017. The market sells a large variety of holiday holiday food and drink.

Almond Cookies Mix the following: 2/3 C Sugar 1 C Butter 1/2 tsp Almond Extract

Add 2 C Flour (I add an extra 1/4 C in Colorado) Beat until fluffy.

Refrigerate for one hour.

Roll 1” Balls. Make a small thumbprint. Fill with Seedless Raspberry Jelly.

(Courtesy photo)

PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. — Santa oversees the base holiday tree lighting at the chapel on Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado, Dec. 1, 2017. The chapel hosted Airmen and their families for cookies and cocoa after the event.

Bake for 12 Min at 350 degrees.

Make Icing and drizzle over cooled cookies: 1 C Powdered Sugar 1-1/2 t almond extract 2-3 T Water From Kelly Moore (wife of Col. Todd Moore, 21st Space Wing commander) These cookies are delicious and always remind me of making Christmas cookies with my mom when I was little.

Now my kids love to help me make them too!

(U.S. Air Fo

PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. — A Chris memorating the U.S. Air Force decorates The Club Force Base, Colorado, Dec. 5, 2017. The 21st Spac its annual Christmas party at The Club December 1

Sugar Cut-out Cookies with Icing

1 c. unsalted butter, softened 1 1/2 c. sugar 1 egg 1 1/2 t. vanilla extract 1/2 t. almond extract 2 3/4 c. all-purpose flour (+ 3 T flour if at high altitude) 2 t. baking powder 1 t. salt Preheat oven to 400 degrees. In mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and extracts.

Mix flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl; add to butter mixture 1 cup at a time, mixing after each addition.

Do not chill dough.

Divide dough into 2 balls.

On a floured surface, roll each ball into a circle approximately 12 inches wide and 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters (dipped in flour first) to cut out holiday shapes.

Bake cookies on an ungreased cookie sheet for 6-7 minutes or until lightly browned. Makes about 3 dozen.

Powdered Sugar Glaze Icing Blend together 1 cup of powdered sugar with 5-6 t. of water. Add food coloring as desired. Brush onto cookies while they’re still a little warm if possible.

(U.S. Air Force photo by Alethea Smock)

PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. — A crowd awaits the flip of the switch at the base holiday tree lighting on Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado, Dec. 1, 2017. Cocoa and cookies were available inside the Chapel after the event.

PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. — A Nutcr visible in the Chapel at Peterson Air Force Base, Co prepares for the upcoming holiday season with an a

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the holidays (U.S. Air Force photo by 2nd Lt. Justin Davidson-Beebe)

(U.S. Air Force photo by Dave Smith)

c for a crowd of people visiting the Christkindl Market in Denver, CO Dec. y-related goods, such as Christmas trees, Christmas decorations, and

MONUMENT, Colo. — The trees in parks around the Pikes Peak region are lit to foster the holiday spirit Dec. 4, 2017. In Monument, north of Colorado Springs, Limbach Park is home to a bright holiday display.

orce photo by Robb Lingley)

(U.S. Air Force photo by 2nd Lt. Justin Davidson-Beebe)

(U.S. Air Force photo by Robb Lingley)

stmas tree comb at Peterson Air ce wing will hold 15 at 2:21 p.m.

DENVER, CO — Christmas trees for sale in front of Union Station in Lower Downtown Denver, Colorado Dec. 1, 2017. The building was lit in holiday colors creating a festive mood for nearby holiday shoppers.

PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. — Cardboard Christmas elves hang from the ceiling at the Base Exchange on Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado, Dec. 5, 2017. Christmas is traditionally a time when friends and families come together to celebrate the holiday season.

(U.S. Air Force photo by Airman First Class Alexis Christian)

(U.S. Air Force photo by Alethea Smock)

(U.S. Air Force photo by Airman First Class Alexis Christian)

racker stands among the many decorations olorado, Dec. 4, 2017. Every year the Chapel array of decorations.

PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. — Cookies and cocoa wait for attendees following the base holiday tree lighting hosted by the Chapel on Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado, Dec. 1, 2017. The base tree lighting is an annual tradition at the base.

PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- A little Elf waits patiently to welcome guests into the Chapel on Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado, Dec. 4, 2017. The Chapel’s take on the popular holiday adornment tradition adds a touch of playfulness to the holiday decorations.

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SPACE OBSERVER Thursday, December 7, 2017

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53rd Signal Battalion leads the Army’s space operations

By Jason B. Cutshaw USASMDC/ARSTRAT Public Affairs

REDSTONE ARSENAL, Ala. — They are the first line of defense in case of an attack on a space-based satellite. They are global. They are the Soldiers of the 53rd Signal Battalion, 1st Space Brigade.

The 53rd Signal Battalion is the oldest operational battalion in the 1st Space Brigade and the only unit in the Department of Defense that conducts payload and transmission control of the Defense Satellite Communications System and Wideband Global System satellite constellations. The management of these constellations by the battalion ensures continuous communications connectivity for mission critical subscribers from the president, to troops, to national agencies.

“They are the first line of defense should an adversary attempt to disrupt the SATCOM links provided by the WGS and DSCS satellite constellations,” said Col. Richard L. Zellmann, 1st Space Brigade commander. “These are $300 million satellites with users as high as the president, and this is a typical day for the Soldiers in the 53rd Signal Battalion.”

“The 53rd’s service members are globally dispersed, manning [Wideband Satellite Operations Centers] positioned in U.S. Pacific Command, U.S. European Command and continental U.S. locations in order to provide global wideband payload control, transmissions control and defensive space control,” added Lt. Col. Glenn O. Mellor, 53rd Signal Battalion commander.

Mellor said through the provision of wideband military satellite communications, the battalion first and foremost enables the mission command warfighting function and supports all other warfighting functions through the provision of these services.

“Space operations are critical to the success of the Army in many ways, from supporting operations through intelligence collection, to providing protection through missile warning to the enabling of communications to the Warfighter,” he said. “The 53rd provides and ensures global wideband military satellite communications in a contested, degraded operational environment contributing to the success of our forces and their mission.”

More than 70 percent of weapons and equipment have a degree of reliance on a space-based service or capability.

Activities within mission command, intelligence, and fires

(U.S. Army photo by Carrie David Campbell)

REDSTONE ARSENAL, Ala. — C Company, 53rd Signal Battalion Soldiers provide global wideband payload control, transmissions control and defensive space control at a Wideband Satellite Communications, or SATCOM, Operations Center. warfighting functions have the most significant dependencies on space.

The purpose and value of space superiority is to provide the freedom of action to apply space capabilities in the pursuit and defense of national security interests. America’s ability to capitalize on and protect space systems and counter enemy capabilities contributes to U.S. military space superiority.

To maintain space superiority, joint forces must have space situational awareness of all factors that could impact space

activities and have the knowledge, training, resources, and authorities needed to defend the ability of the U.S. and its allies to use space.

Besides the United States and its forces, Mellor said the battalion’s WSOCs support troops from Australia, Denmark, Luxembourg, Belgium, Norway, Czech Republic, Canada, Netherlands and New Zealand, providing wideband military

See Operations page 13

Maj. Gen. Whiting takes command of 14th Air Force

By Maj. Cody Chiles 14th Air Force Public Affairs

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. — Air Force Maj. Gen. Stephen N. Whiting took command of 14th Air Force and became the Deputy Joint Force Space Component Commander during a reorganization and change of command ceremony at the Joint Space Operations Center, Dec. 1.

Air Force Gen. John W. Raymond, Commander, Air Force Space Command, also assumed command over former Joint Functional Component Command for Space forces and became dual hatted as the Joint Force Space Component Commander during the ceremony.

Air Force Gen. John E. Hyten, Commander, U.S. Strategic Command, presided over the ceremony, which officially reorganized joint space forces beneath USSTRATCOM. The reorganization is part of a broader USSTRATCOM initiative to build a coherent and streamlined warfighting structure to improve the nation’s space warfighting effectiveness, which ultimately enhances the lethality of U.S. joint forces.

“When you study the history of this command, you will see a pattern — one in which we never stay stagnant. We adapt, we adjust and we evolve. That is what we are doing here today, said Hyten. “The question on everyone’s mind today is, ‘Why are we changing?’

The answer is the same reason for all the previous iterations of Strategic Command — the threat environment changed and we changed with it.”

Prior to the change, Whiting served as the JFSCC Integration Team Lead for AFSPC; leading the standup of the JFSCC construct.

During the ceremony, Whiting empha-

(U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Kyla Gifford/Released)

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. — U.S. Air Force Gen. John Raymond, commander of Air Force Space Command, passes the 14th Air Force guidon to Maj. Gen. Stephen Whiting, the new 14th Air Force commander, during a change of command ceremony, Dec. 1, 2017, Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif. In addition to the 14th Air Force change of command, the Joint Functional Component Command for Space was deactivated and the Joint Force Space Component Command was activated. The JFSCC will conduct joint space operations to protect and defend the Joint Operations Area and deliver assured theater and global effects in accordance with U.S. Strategic Command’s intent and national and Combatant Commander objectives. sized the important warfighting advantage the United States gains from space capabilities and how he will continue to focus on the ability to fight tonight when called upon.

“We will also be rigorously focused on our ability to fight tonight when called upon.

First, we recognize that other members of the joint force are fighting today and tonight

as we speak…in harm’s way…so we will consider it our moral duty to provide them the space effects they need,” said Whiting.

“We will have plans and tactics in place to deal with today’s most likely and most dangerous threats in space. We do not seek a conflict in space, but we will be ready if one comes to us.”

As Commander, 14th AF, Whiting leads more than 12,000 personnel responsible for providing strategic missile warning, nuclear command, control and communication, position, navigation and timing, space situational awareness, satellite operations, space launch and range operations.

As Deputy JFSCC, Whiting directs all assigned and attached USSTRATCOM space forces on behalf of the JFSCC; providing tailored, responsive and synchronized theater and global space effects in support of national security and combatant commander objectives. He is also responsible for protecting and defending critical U.S. and allied space capabilities.

Whiting is a 1989 graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy. He is a space operations officer, and has commanded the 13th Space Warning Squadron, Clear AFS, Alaska; the 614th Air and Space Operations Center/Joint Space Operations Center, Vandenberg AFB, Calif.; and the 21st Space Wing, Peterson AFB, Colo.

“It’s great to be back at Vandenberg and to be back on the beautiful central coast. This is truly a humbling day. I want to thank General Hyten and General Raymond for placing this trust in us and for giving us this amazing opportunity, said Whiting. “I’m honored to be joining the 14th Air Force family, and to be a part of the standup of the Joint Force Space Component Command.”

Whiting’s staff assignments include positions at Headquarters, United States Air Force; United States Space Command; United States Strategic Command; the Chief of Naval Operations’ Strategic Studies Group; the Office of the Deputy Secretary of Defense; and Headquarters, Air Force Space Command.

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Air Force announces continuation pay rates Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs Office

WASHINGTON — Air Force leaders recently announced the Air Force’s continuation pay rates which are part of the new Blended Retirement System.

Continuation pay is a way to encourage Airmen covered

by BRS to remain in the Air Force since it will be possible to leave with some retirement benefit prior to 20 years of service.

The system is a blend of a 20-year retirement and contribution plan that allows service members to contribute to a Thrift Savings Plan account that is transferable after separation from the military.

“Continuation pay is a one-time direct cash payout, like a retention bonus,” said Lt. Gen. Gina Grosso, deputy chief

Operations From page 12

satellite communications control thanks to partnerships and the development of memorandums of understanding between the United States and these partner nations.

“The 53rd could not do this alone; the support we get from the 1st Space Brigade, SMDC leadership and staff, and Signal Cyber Center of Excellence is invaluable and helps the Soldiers continue to perform this extremely unique mission,” Mellor said.

Additionally, the signal battalion is a coalition and joint unit, with service members from the U.S. Army, Royal Australian navy, Royal Australian air force and Australian regular army serving within the battalion.

of staff for Manpower, Personnel and Services. “Members will receive continuation pay at 12 years of service in return for a commitment of four years of service.”

For active duty Airmen the payment rate is 2.5, times monthly basic pay. For the Reserve component Airmen to include, Guardsmen and Reserve, the payment rate is 0.5 times monthly basic pay, as if on active duty. For Reserve component Airmen on active Guard and Reserve orders, the payment rate is 2.5 times monthly basic pay. The rates and parameters for paying CP will remain in effect until changed.

“Modernizing the current retirement system into the BRS will ensure that the vast majority of uniformed service members receive a portable government retirement benefit,” said

“The Australian Coalition Partnership Program is a huge success for this battalion,” Mellor said. “The 10 personnel from the Royal Australian navy, Royal Australian air force and Australian regular army are a well-received addition to the formation. They are exceptionally qualified technicians and add a unique perspective and heritage to the battalion.”

The battalion’s senior enlisted Soldier, Command Sgt. Maj. Mary A. Carr, shared her thoughts on how the Soldiers provide seamless access to America’s satellite constellations for members across the DOD as well as allied forces.

“We ensure that end users have the communications resources they need to execute their missions any time, day or night, and stand by every minute of every day to ensure that if support is needed, they are there to provide it, she said. “We simultaneously coordinate with our service partners to ensure the health of the satellites themselves. In addition to these

Daniel Sitterly, acting assistant secretary of the Air Force for Manpower and Reserve Affairs. “It will help make the uniformed services more attractive to new generations of American citizens by providing a retirement annuity with options on how to shape their retirement benefit.”

The BRS was enacted into law in the Fiscal Year 2016 National Defense Authorization Act, and will go into effect Jan. 1, 2018. All currently serving members are grandfathered into the current military retirement system. However, those with fewer than 12 years of service as of Dec. 31, 2017, or Air Force Reserve component members with fewer than 4,320 retirement points may choose to “opt in” to the BRS during the designated opt-in period from Jan. 1, 2018, through Dec. 31, 2018.

efforts, 53rd Soldiers also conduct an ongoing cycle of training, preparation and leader development in order to produce the type of leaders to ensure that we remain first in space.”

Carr discussed the battalion’s mission in providing global wideband payload control, transmissions control and defensive space control in ensuring the DoD Wideband Satellite Constellations continuous support during peacetime, contingency, surge and crisis action plans supporting DOD, U.S. government agencies and allied partners.

“To put it simply, a satellite communications network without satellite systems and network coordinators of the 53rd would be a like an airport without air traffic controllers,” Carr said. “Satellite control Soldiers are the hub of the communications wheel, and without them the wheel would simply fall apart. Satellite control is an extremely complex and exact science, and the workload that coordinators take

off of the tactical operator by executing their control mission is enormous.”

“The 53rd wants to put the communicator in the field in the best tactical position possible, and we do that by doing all of the background work, coordination and system management so that all a Soldier in the field has to do is access the satellite and stay in the fight,” she added. “We do the rest.”

It is this mission of “doing the rest” that makes Carr, Mellor, and Zellman extremely proud of each of the Soldiers in the battalion.

“The national and strategic importance of the Army’s only satellite control battalion and the capabilities that we provide enhances a meaningful purpose in conducting our 24-hour mission and aides in the success of our nation,” Mellor said. “I am incredibly proud of the dedication of our service members and the importance of our strategic mission.”

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SPACE OBSERVER Thursday, December 7, 2017

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(U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. David Salanitri)

(U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Shawn Nickel)

CLEAR AIR FORCE STATION, Alaska — Built during the Cold War, the ballistic missile early warning system was charged with the mission of detecting potential missile launches from the soviet union. Today, the BMEWS site on Clear Air Force Station, Alaska is deactivated, yielding to the newer solid state phased array radar system. Photo captured June 29, 2016.

CLEAR AIR FORCE STATION, Alaska — Clear AFS, Alaska, deep in America’s last frontier, is marked by a small sign and secluded by icy roads which are often difficult to travel in the harsh winter weather. Clear AFS has more than 300 contractor, civilian, active duty, Canadian and Alaska Air National Guards-personnel who work seamlessly together to maintain its phased array radar system.

Overcoming Alaskan-sized challenges to provide energy assurance

By J. Brian Garmon

TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. — Preparing for a major power outage or planning a backup generation exercise is complicated in the best conditions. Now, imagine doing it in temperatures as low as 50 degrees below zero at Clear Air Force Station, Alaska.

This is the reality the civil engineer team had to account for in planning a project that retired a 1950s-era coal-fired power plant in favor of a tie-in to the local electric grid. This project was funded through the energy resilience and conservation investment program, facilitated by the Air Force Civil Engineer Center (AFCEC) Energy Directorate’s program development division and the Office of the Secretary of Defense.

During the planning and execution of this project, which spanned more than 10 years, AFCEC provided support and expertise to Clear along with the 21st Civil Engineer Squadron and Air Force Space Command, located at Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado, as part of a cross-organizational effort to execute this major change while minimizing mission impact.

The mission at Clear demanded that no loss of mission capability would be acceptable during the transition. However, the process included many variables that posed serious threats to mission energy assurance. Any lengthy power loss could pose significant danger to the warfighters on-site and cause major damage to facilities and equipment.

Without proper heating and power, pipes carrying both fresh and waste water could freeze and split open, facilities, equipment and vehicles become inoperable, and the lives of airmen and other base personnel could become threatened.

Successfully shutting down the existing power plant and connecting with the Golden Valley Electric Association (GVEA) required the base to run on back-up generation for a period of approximately one week in grueling winter conditions.

Weather was not the only challenge facing Clear; among other factors, logistics threatened the success of the project due to the

(U.S. Air Force Photo/Tech. Sgt. David Salanitri)

CLEAR AIR FORCE STATION, Alaska — Staff Sgt. Daniel Kennett, a space systems operator, works in the Solid State Phased Array Radar System at Clear Air Force Station, Alaska. Kennett is able to track something the size of a softball in space. base’s location in central Alaska. The lead time required to obtain a new transformer was significant and many portions of the project were limited on when and how far out they could be scheduled due to the cold conditions.

The margin for error in planning such a change-over was extremely small.

In preparation for this critical project execution task, a tiger team was formed to assess and mitigate risk to the installation and mission. The team included members of the 21st, Clear’s on-site CE team and others including Ron Herren, a retired plant manager who oversaw the original plant for 30 years.

“Having Ron come out of retirement to help us on the team was absolutely key,” said Master Sgt. Travis Oaks, project management and quality assurance superintendent.

“His 30 years of experience with the plant was a critical element in ensuring that the switchover was a success.”

The team supported the effort, making changes as new challenges arose through the

assessment. According to Oaks, the team was instrumental in getting buy-in from command for the change-over process.

During their assessment, several risks were identified. The amount of aerospace ground equipment (AGE) heaters available was inadequate to complete the work. Additionally, the backup generator was dramatically undersized. During a normal short-term outage, load-shedding could accommodate this difference, but for a long-term outage, buildings or portions of buildings without power could result in significant facility damage.

In response to the heater shortage, Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, loaned Clear an additional 30 AGE heaters, which satisfied the need they identified in contingency planning.

These heaters were critical to the success of the mission, allowing for areas to be tented off for workers, preventing buildings from freezing and keeping equipment warm to ensure reliable usage.

The AFCEC Civil Engineer Maintenance Inspection Repair Team (CEMIRT) support-

ed the transition by bringing a properly sized backup generator on-site. This generator served as Clear’s primary backup for over a year and then as standby during Clear’s power conversion.

Until the new infrastructure and backup generation construction was complete, the old plant needed to remain fully operational. During the transition, additional labor was required to man both facilities. The Air Force’s contract augmentation program, managed by AFCEC’s Readiness Directorate, filled the manpower gap during the plant decommissioning as plant personnel transitioned into new roles.

Close coordination between GVEA and the base was necessary, as both parties needed to plan for when power would be dropping or coming online.

“Our communication with the utility was critical,” Oaks said. “Due to potential mission impact, we had to have a very clear plan for coming online and GVEA was an important partner through the entire process.”

During project planning, AFCEC’s Energy Directorate and legal team negotiated the details of this changeover in an interconnect agreement with GVEA. The process laid out in this agreement ensured that the mission-impact concerns of the installation and the requirements of the utility were both met.

These examples are only a snapshot of the nearly 10-year effort in executing this project.

“A project of this size requires a committed team to support and execute properly,” Oaks said. “A great deal of thanks is owed to many: our tiger team, AFCEC, the 21st, 13th SWS, AFSPC, the Alaska District U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Electrical Engineer Mike Doty, Lt. Col. Jim Fitzgerald, Resident Engineer Rick Weidmaier, Quality Assurance Evaluator Steve Dahl and everyone involved in making this project possible.”

“AFCEC is proud to be one of the organizations that partnered in this effort,” said Col. Timothy Dodge, AFCEC deputy director.

“Clear Air Force Station is a great example of how AFCEC brings unique skillsets together to solve complex challenges while providing the best support possible to our warfighters in the field.”

The Transcript can publish your NOTICES OF GUARDIANSHIP

For more info call 634-5905

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SPACE OBSERVER Thursday, December 7, 2017

THE

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OF THINGS TO DO AROUND COLORADO SPRINGS Brought to you by the Colorado Springs Independent

day wishes each night through Dec. 23. Dec. 8-10, 5:30-8:30 p.m., Dec. 15-23, 5:30-8:30 p.m. and Dec. 25 to Jan. 1, 5:30-8:30 p.m. $5.75-$9.75. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, 4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road, 633-9925, info@cmzoo.org, cmzoo.org/electricsafari.

ART EVENTS Barefoot Art Show and Gift Sale, a pop-up art exhibit, featuring work from local artists, photographers and crafters, in support of the Movement Arts Community Studio venue.

Sun., Dec. 10, 1-4 p.m. Free. Movement Arts Community Studio, 525 E. Fountain Blvd., #150, 310-0091, Steve@Beckerpottery.com, movementartscs.com.

Holiday Headframe Lighting, self-guided tours to see the giant headframes that are the remains of 1890s gold mining days, decorated for the holidays. Fridays-Sundays, 6-10 p.m.; through Jan. 1. Free. Victor Lowell Thomas Museum, Third and Victor avenues, Victor, 689-5509, stcfg@victorcolorado.com, victorcolorado.com.

Free Day, a chance to visit the arts center and Buell Children’s Museum for free. Second Sunday of every month. Sangre de Cristo Arts Center, 210 N. Santa Fe Ave., Pueblo, 719/295-7200, sdc-arts.org.

Julebord: A Norwegian Christmas Feast, Fjellheim Lodge’s annual feast, featuring many of the food items served at a traditional Norwegian Julebord. There will be caroling, plus special holiday entertainment. RSVP by Dec. 13. Sun., Dec. 17, 2:30 p.m. $20-$22; $8/child younger than 12. Viking Hall, 1045 Ford St., 229-9289, sonsofnorwaycs.com.

Holiday Party & Ornament Auction, in partnership with AIGA Colorado. There will be music, giveaways, hors d’oeuvres, and a silent auction of handmade ornaments by local and regional artists. Sat., Dec. 9, 4-8 p.m. $15-$20. Cottonwood Center for the Arts, 427 E. Colorado Ave., 520-1899, cottonwoodcenterforthearts.com.

Museum Free Day, providing access to the FAC’s general admission offerings to the widest possible audiences in the Pikes Peak region. Second Saturday of every month, 10 a.m. and third Friday of every month, 10 a.m.; through Dec. 21. Free. Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center at Colorado College, 30 W. Dale St., 634-5581, fac@coloradocollege.edu, coloradocollege.edu/fac.

Oil Paintings Program, a class on oil painting that will teach students to approach various genres by focusing on fundamental skills.

Thursdays, 9 a.m. Drop in $30, 5 class punch pass $125. Alvarez Art School, 2418 W. Colorado Ave., Studio J, 337-2863, chrisalvarezpaintings@gmail.com, alvarezschool.com.

Painting Demonstration, a live artist demo with Rita Salazar, a Colorado Springs-based painter. Sat., Dec. 9, 1-4 p.m. G44 Gallery, 1785 S. Eighth St., Suite A, 720/951-0573, galleryg44.com.

COMEDY & IMPROV Improv Comedy Night, family-friendly improv comedy, made up on-the-spot from audience suggestions. Performed by Improv Colorado.

Sat., Dec. 9, 7:30-9 p.m. $8-$10. The Theater on Pecan, 1367 Pecan St., 455-9510, fun@improvcolorado.com, improvcolorado.com.

Old North End Holiday Home Tour, inviting the public to celebrate the holiday season with a festive, open house tour that offers rare access to historic, architecturally significant and beautiful homes. Advance tickets at Kirkpatrick Bank, 102 N. Cascade Ave. Sat., Dec. 9, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. $25-$30. 659-7614, csholidayhometour.com.

KIDS & FAMILY Return of the Christmas Mouse, a family holiday romp about a holiday decorating contest taken too far. Can Christmas Mouse save the day? Saturdays, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. and Sundays, 1 and 3 p.m.; through Dec. 24. $12. Millibo Art Theatre, 1626 S. Tejon St., 465-6321, themat.org.

of every month, 8 p.m. $10. Yoga Studio Satya, 1581 York Road, kkschmidt@hexdance. com, hexdance.com.

Monday through Saturday. Ongoing. Pikes Peak Therapeutic Riding Center, 13620 Halleluiah Trail, Elbert, 719/495-3908, bennett@ pptrc.org, pptrc.org.

GET INVOLVED

Silver Key, seeks volunteers to deliver hot meals to seniors in the greater Colorado Springs area. “If you like to visit with seniors in their homes, and have reliable transportation, please contact us!” Multiple pickup locations available. Silver Key Senior Services, 1625 S. Murray Blvd., 884-2319, larguello@ silverkey.org, silverkey.org.

24 Hour Trainer Challenge, featuring individuals and teams attempting to ride as far as possible in 24 hours, raising money for Give! nonprofit Kids on Bikes. Sat., Dec. 9, 11 a.m.

7-Eleven United States Olympic Training Center Velodrome, 250 S. Union Blvd., kidsonbikes.net.

Make ‘em Laugh Open Mic Night, an open mic for comedians of all sorts. Mondays, 8-10 p.m. Free. Playing Field Sports Bar, 3958 N. Academy Blvd., #112, 210-1316, theplayingfieldsportsbar.com.

3rd Annual Snow Ball featuring Woodshed Red, hosted by the 2017 Give! Campaign, with live music by bluegrass band Woodshed Red. Sun., Dec. 10, 6 p.m. Free, $15 for a reserved seat. Stargazers, 10 S. Parkside Drive, 476-2200, stargazers2525@aol.com, stargazerstheatre.com.

The Modbo Ho Ho 2017: A Christmas Cabaret for Grown-Ups, an irreverent and festive romp through the holidays, including mostly tawdry songs, some dance, and a few brief moments of holiday earnestness. Sat., Dec. 9, 7 and 9:30 p.m. $15. The Modbo, 17C E. Bijou St., 633-4240, themodbo@gmail.com, themodbo.com.

Eat, Drink, & Give! Enjoy a delicious meal at Shining Mountain Golf Course, and 10% of your bill will be donated to Habitat for Humanity of Teller County. Sat., Dec. 9, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Shining Mountain Golf Club, 100 Shining Mountain Lane, Woodland Park, 6877587, facebook.com/HabitatForHumanityOfTellerCounty.

Open Mic Comedy, open mics on the first, third and fifth Thursdays; and improv on the second and fourth Thursdays. Thursdays, 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. Free. Underground, 110 N. Nevada Ave., 578-7771, facebook.com/undergroundbars.

Give! The Gift of Film Festival, a screening of short films, celebrating the achievements of all abilities. Hosted by The Arc Pikes Peak Region and The Independence Center. Sun., Dec. 10, 4-6 p.m. Lon Chaney Theatre, 221 E. Kiowa St., 385-5969.

DANCE

Mountain Park Environmental Center, is currently seeking bus drivers to help shuttle children from Pueblo schools to Pueblo Mountain Park. Interested drivers may volunteer for one or more weekdays. Ongoing. Mountain Park Environmental Center, 9112 Mountain Park Road, Beulah, 485-4444, taylor@hikeandlearn.org, hikeandlearn.org.

Broadmoor Waltz Club, Teaching 12 patterned Waltzes. Classes for beginners start at 6:30 p.m., advanced at 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. Austin Bluffs Community Church, 5090 Austin Bluffs Pkwy., 5982885, kujonel@msn.com, abcchurch.com.

Thursdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. $5/couple. Colorado Springs Senior Center, 1514 N. Hancock Ave., 592-1418.

Tea & Biscuits Holiday Tea Party, a full holiday-inspired tea party including beverage, treats, holiday music and a visit from Santa.

All proceeds benefit Harley’s Hope Foundation, helping pets and their people stay together. Sat., Dec. 9, 1:30-4 p.m. $12-$18.

Black Forest Community Center, 12530 Black Forest Road, 495-6083, info@harleys-hopefoundation.org, bit.ly/HHF-Tea.

HEALTH & WELLNESS HeART of the Lotus: Healing Art Therapy Program for Chronic Pelvic Pain, an opportunity to use art to explore ways of expressing your chronic pelvic pain experience. Presented by Bridge for Pelvic Pain. Second Saturday of every month, 2:30-3:30 p.m. $10/Class.

Manitou Art Center, 513 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 505-6477, info@bridgeforpelvicpain.org, manitouartcenter.org.

Holistic Fair At Southpointe, an open house with ten holistic practitioners offering oneon-one sessions in past lives, energy work, coaching, reiki and more, plus educational presentations, door prizes and light refreshments. Sat., Dec. 9, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free.

Center for Powerful Living, 635 Southpointe Court, #220, 448-9000, info@yourcpl.com, tinyurl.com/SouthpointeCS. Touch Therapy for Cancer, “soothe, energize, support and expedite your radiation/chemotherapy recovery time with a volunteer touch therapy practitioner.” Available weekly to anyone with a cancer diagnosis. Ongoing. Donations accepted. lifesparknow.org.

CommuniDance, a free-form dance group.

Saturdays, 9-10 a.m. and Wednesdays, 6-7 p.m. By donation. Movement Arts Community Studio, 525 E. Fountain Blvd., #150, 9631809, communidance.com.

New Volunteer Orientation, seeking volunteers to assist in Pikes Peak Therapeutic Riding Center’s Equine Therapy Classes. Volunteers do not need to be horse savvy. Second Saturday of every month, 9-11 a.m. Free.

Pikes Peak Therapeutic Riding Center, 13620 Halleluiah Trail, Elbert, 495-3908, mersman@ pptrc.org, pptrc.org/volunteers.html.

Dancing with Live Bands, weekly dancing to a variety of music, including Big Band, Swing, Country, Latin and more. Free dance classes are held first, third and fifth Thursdays. $10.

International Dance Club, 2422 Busch Ave., 633-0195, internationaldanceclub.org.

Penrose Blood Drive, an opportunity to donate much-needed blood. Must be 18 or older with a valid driver’s license. Dec. 6-7, noon to 3 p.m. CC’s Worner Campus Center, 902 N. Cascade Ave., 389-6607, coloradocollege. edu.

4th Annual Holiday Extravaganza, offering a variety of holiday-themed crafts and treats.

Supplies will be provided. Ages 12 and older are welcome. Fri., Dec. 8, 1-4 p.m. Free. Library 21c, 1175 Chapel Hills Drive, snagle@ ppld.org, bit.ly/2m3YFwe.

Hex Fusion Dance, an opportunity to explore and blend different styles of music and dance. No partner required. Second Saturday

Pikes Peak Therapeutic Riding Center, is seeking volunteers at least 14 years old to assist in Therapeutic Riding classes and to help with barn upkeep. Opportunities available

Electric Safari, with a zoo full of one-of-a-kind light sculptures and 50 acres of lights and wild animals. Santa Claus will be taking holi-

HOLIDAY

FIND MORE LISTINGS ONLINE AT CSINDY.COM

Palmer High School Craft Fair, hosted by the Palmer High School Bands program, with local vendors and holiday shopping. Sat., Dec. 9, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sun., Dec. 10, noon to 4 p.m. Free. Palmer High School, 301 N. Nevada Ave., 328-5000, palmercraftfair@gmail. com, d11.org/palmer.

SING! An Irish Christmas in Colorado, with Keith and Kristyn Getty, writers of modern hymns and carols, joined by their band of virtuoso instrumentalists fusing Celtic, Bluegrass, Americana and classical music with traditional Irish dance. Wednesdays, Thursdays, 8-10 p.m.; through Dec. 11. $45-$80.

The Broadmoor, 1 Lake Ave., 488-9200, customercare@biblica.com, gettymusic.com/ tours.

Westerners Special Presentation: The Train Wars Murder by Red Herring Productions, a historical Christmas social and interactive murder mystery with the Pikes Peak Posse of the Westerners. Includes catered food

by Front Range Barbeque. Reservations required. Mon., Dec. 11, 6 p.m. $25. Colorado Springs Masonic Hall, 1150 Panorama Drive, 473-0330, posse@dewittenterprises.com, squareup.com/store/pppw.

Winter Market, with international students from all over the world representing their countries with traditional food, drinks or crafts. Sat., Dec. 9, 2:30 p.m. CC’s Cornerstone Arts Center, 825 N. Cascade Ave., coloradocollege.edu.

Yule Festival and Fair, with a make-it fair to create your own gifts; an arts and crafts market; and a festival with music, snacks, entertainment, Santa and hot cocoa. Sallie Bush Community Building, 10795 Ute Pass Ave., Green Mountain Falls. Sun., Dec. 10, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free. info@SallieBushCommunityBuilding.com.

RECREATION & OUTDOORS Achilles Pikes Peak Weekly Workout, an all-inclusive running/walking/wheeling/ handcycling/moving group that welcomes all people with disabilities to participate. The event divides participants into groups based on pace and distance “and this means no one is left behind.” Mondays, 6:15-7:30 p.m. Free.

Colorado Running Company - N. Nevada, 2562 N. Nevada Ave. #140, 760/470-3947, achillespikespeak.org.

Holiday Open House, an introduction to yoga by long-time instructor Sudhanshu Semwal (9 a.m.), followed by a variety of activities to help you “get to know” Cheyenne Mountain State Park, including educational opportunities, an Art in the Park display and more. Sat., Dec. 9, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free, no park pass required. Cheyenne Mountain State Park, 410 JL Ranch Heights, 576-2016, Cheyenne.park@ state.co.us, facebook.com/CheyenneMountainStatePark.

Tuesday Walkers, a walking group for seniors. Tuesdays, 8 a.m. Senior Resource Development Agency, 230 N. Union Ave., Pueblo, 719/545-8900, srda.org.

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THE BEST WAY TO GET WHERE YOU’VE ALWAYS WANTED TO GO. Subaru’s 2018 models are here.

SUBARU WILL DONATE $250 TO CHARITY *Subaru will donate $250 for every new Subaru vehicle sold or leased from November 16th, 2017, through January 2nd, 2018, to four national charities designated by the purchaser or lessee. Preapproved Hometown Charities may be selected for donation depending on retailer participation.

Certain participating retailers will make an additional donation to the Hometown Charities selected.

Purchasers/lessees must make their charity designations by January 31, 2018. The four national charities will receive a guaranteed minimum donation of 250,000 each. See your local Subaru retailer for details, or visit Subaru.com/share. All donations made by Subaru of America, Inc.

2018 SUBARU FORESTER 2.5

$1400 due • $199/mo.

36 month lease. $199 per month plus tax. $1400 due at signing plus tax. 10,000 miles per year with approved credit. No security deposit required.

MSRP $23,872 Model code JFA Package 01 Stock #180776

*2018 Subaru Forester not as pictured

$1200 due $169/mo.

2018 SUBARU IMPREZA 2.0

36 month lease. $169 per month plus tax. $1200 due at signing plus tax.

10,000 miles per year with approved credit. No security deposit required.

MSRP $19,517 Model code JJA Package 01 Stock #181512

$1200 due $189/mo.

2018 SUBARU LEGACY 2.5

36 month lease. $189 per month plus tax. $1200 due at signing plus tax.

10,000 miles per year with approved credit. No security deposit required.

MSRP $23,966 Model code JAB Package 02 Stock #180430

$1600 due $189/mo.

2018 SUBARU OUTBACK 2.5

36 month lease. $189 per month plus tax. $1600 due at signing plus tax.

10,000 miles per year with approved credit. No security deposit required.

MSRP $27,182 Model code JDB Package 01 Stock #180864

$1600 due

2018 SUBARU CROSSTREK 2.0

$179/mo.

36 month lease. $179 per month plus tax. $1600 due at signing plus tax.

10,000 miles per year with approved credit. No security deposit required.

MSRP $22,872 Model code JRB Package 01 Stock #182113

COURTESY DELIVERY AVAILABLE TO ANYWHERE IN COLORADO (719) 475-1920 · 1080 Motor City Drive · Colorado Springs BestBuySubaru.com ·

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Expires: 12/31/17

Family Owned and Operated for Over 47 years