Workforce Pride Newsletter by Robert Dodrill

3 I S S U E 3 , V O L U M E

Refreshingly Relevant

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Army Honors Widow who Helps Families Turn Grief into Hope

“ROLL” INTO FIRE PREVENTION SAFETY 2

"It is not the strongest of the species that survive, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change." -Charles Darwin

RELAX. IT’S ONLY THE HOLIDAYS! 9

SNEAK PEEK INTO NEXT MONTH 11

WASHINGTON (Army News Service, Oct. 12, 2012) -- After losing her husband in 1992, Bonnie Carroll channeled her grief into a support organization that provides hope and comfort to the surviving families of service members. "She has changed the lives of thousands of survivors and provided unequaled services for those loved ones left behind," reads an excerpt from the Outstanding Civilian Service Award which will be presented to Carroll this evening. Army Chief of Staff Gen. Ray Odierno presented the award to Carroll, founder and president of the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, known as TAPS, during a Twilight Tattoo at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Va. TAPS "offers peer-based emotional support to bereaved military families," Carroll said, explaining that "peer-based" means "establishing a connection to others who have endured a similar loss. "There is an understanding that is unspoken between survivors -just knowing someone else has experienced a similar loss gives people comfort and the knowledge that they are not alone. While many people sympathize with survivors of our fallen, few understand, truly, what they are going through. That is something only a peer-

based support organization can provide." Among the services TAPS provides are: Good Grief Camps and Camp Outs for children; seminars for adults; connections to care providers in communities across America; casualty casework assistance referrals to all federal, state and private-sector agencies; grief and trauma resources and information; a 24/7 National Military Survivor Helpline at 800-959-8277; and a website with useful information at http://www.taps.org. In the last 12 months, TAPS has intaked 2,149 newly-bereaved Army survivors needing support and services. TAPS Good Grief Camp is a particularly helpful program for kids, Carroll said. "It is where children learn that they are not alone in facing the death of a loved one," she said. "Children meet others who have experienced a loss and build their own peer-based network for support. They do age-appropriate educational activities that help them learn how to cope with their grief, so they have skills to help them after they go home. They also learn how America honors those who have served and died, and how their families are connected to a national legacy of service and sacrifice." Children are paired up with a TAPS Good Grief Camp mentor who is trained in how to companion a grieving child, she said, and the companion helps provide a critical connection back to the military family for the child. In addition to Good Grief Camp, TAPS also holds Camp Outs, another program with children in mind. This summer, the 7-year-old son of a fallen Soldier attended a TAPS Camp Out -- his first TAPS program and first time away from home alone since his dad's death, she said. "At the Camp Out, he was paired with a TAPS military mentor, and he made new friends his own age who could understand his loss because they missed their dads, too. This little boy shared his sadness, but also his

pride. He found a safe place at TAPS to talk about the feelings he was having and learn coping skills that would sustain him. In one exercise, the children put their hand on a piece of paper while their military mentor traced the outline of their fingers, Carroll said. Then in each finger they wrote a question they would ask their dad, if they could have him back for a day. This little boy wrote, 'Why did it happen?' 'Why did the bad guy kill him?' 'Why did he have to die?' 'Was he with his friend?' and 'Why was he in the war?' He also asked, 'What did you do while you were a Soldier?' and 'Why is the war made?' "These are weighty subjects for a 7-yearold," Carroll said, "but he was not alone with these thoughts, and in this safe place, he could talk through these tough topics honestly and openly." Carroll said TAPS offers hope, healing, comfort and care to thousands of children like this 7-year-old, allowing them to put words to the feelings deep in their hearts. "This little boy ran to his mom when she came to pick him up, and she shared with us later that for the first time, he was smiling again and able to be a kid. This is the miracle TAPS offers."

Another Year of Blessings!

“Greetings from Fort Leavenworth! I am enjoying my learning experience here, I am missing you guys there, and I am thankful for the lives that are touched by this publication everywhere!” - RaShonda

Wow! The holiday season is upon us yet again. I am so happy that we have a time of year that reminds us to be thankful, joyful, and humble. We must remember that life could be worse, but we are alive, and we must take the time to make the most of life to make it not only memorable, but remarkable! Let us vow to spend the holidays remembering all the things we have been blessed with. No one can take away our rich and enviable past and our traditions. So let’s spend time introducing our families and friends to one of our most gracious of holidays this monthThanksgiving.

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The Tradition of Thanksgiving

The Importance of Having a Fire Escape Plan By Clint Langford, Fort Sill Fire Chief Did you know? Approximately 3,500 people are killed and more than 17,000 are injured in fires across this country every year. Don’t become a statistic! Plan ahead so you know what to do. There are three very important measures that you can take to protect yourself and the ones you love: 1. Install and maintain smoke detector at every room or level of your home. 2. Have and follow a carefully thoughtout fire escape plan. 3. Practice the fire escape plan at least twice a year.

Ref: Wikipedia.com

In the United States, the modern Thanksgiving holiday tradition is commonly traced to a 1621 celebration at Plymouth in present-day Massachusetts. The 1621 Plymouth feast and thanksgiving was prompted by a good harvest. In later years, the tradition was continued by civil leaders such as Governor Bradford who planned a thanksgiving celebration and fast in 1623. The practice of holding an annual harvest festival like this did not become a regular affair in New England until the late 1660s.Pilgrims and Puritans who began emigrating from England in the 1620s and 1630s carried the tradition of Days of Fasting and Days of Thanksgiving with them to New England. Several days of Thanksgiving were held in early New England history that have been identified as the "First Thanksgiving", including Pilgrim holidays in Plymouth in 1621 and 1623, and a Puritan holiday in Boston in 1631.Thanksgiving proclamations were made mostly by church leaders in New England up until 1682, and then by both state and church leaders until after the American Revolution. During the revolutionary period, political influences affected the issuance of Thanksgiving proclamations. Various proclamations were made by royal governors, John Hancock, General George Washington, and the Continental Congress, each giving thanks to God for events favorable to their causes. As President of the United States, George Washington proclaimed the first nation-wide thanksgiving celebration in America marking November 26, 1789, "as a day of public thanksgiving and prayer to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many and signal favors of Almighty God". The traditional representation of where the first Thanksgiving was held in the United States, and even the Americas, has often been a subject of debate, though the debate is often confused by mixing up the ideas of a Thanksgiving holiday celebration and a Thanksgiving religious service. This debate has been called a "tempest in a beanpot" and "marvelous nonsense." There is evidence for an earlier religious service by Spanish explorers in Texas at San Elizario in 1598, as well as thanksgiving feasts in the Virginia Colony. The initial thanksgiving observance at Virginia in 1619 was prompted by the colonists' leaders on the anniversary of the settlement. Author and teacher Robyn Gioia and Michael Gannon of the University of Florida have argued that the earliest attested "Thanksgiving" service in what is now the United States was celebrated by the Spanish on September 8, 1565, in what is now Saint Augustine, Florida. Thanksgiving services were routine in Virginia as early as 1607. A day for Thanksgiving services was codified in the founding charter of Berkeley Hundred in Charles City County in 1619.

PLANNING YOUR HOME FIRE ESCAPE Bring all the people in your household together and write out your plan. Drawing a floor plan of your home and marking two exits from each room can prove to be a helpful aid, especially for children. Make sure all members of your household understand the escape plan. Be sure to assign someone to assist infants or any one with mobility challenges. Choose an outside meeting place away from the home where all family members can meet after they have escaped. Example of meeting place would be the mail box, a neighbor’s house, a street sign, etc. It’s a good idea to share this meeting place with your neighbor as well. Walk through your home and make sure all escape routes are easily accessible and that doors and windows open easily. Never block an exit with furniture. TIME TO PRACTICE! Practicing your fire escape plan will help your family further familiarize themselves with the plan. If you experience a fire there could be less chance for panic and a greater chance that everyone will get out safely. Put your plan to test by holding a fire drill at least twice a year. It is important to practice in both warm and cold weather. It is a good idea to start your drill at night as that is when most fires occur. Also, because fire smoke makes it very dark, it is a good to practice at night time. During the drill make certain that everyone especially the children are awaken by the smoke detector. If someone is not easily awakened, assign another family member to waken them up. While performing your drill, everyone should practice crawling on their hands and knees. In a real fire situation, smoke and toxic fumes rise so the cleaner air is in the floor. By crawling low you’ll be able to breath and see better. If your home has more than one floor, it is important that all family members have a way to escape from the higher levels. If necessary, place escape ladders in or near windows, in an easily accessible area. Practice using the ladder from a first floor window so all family members will be prepared to use it in the event of a fire. WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE CAUGHT IN AN ACTUAL FIRE Fire spreads quickly! Even with early warning, you can be trapped in a fire. If you know what to do and are prepared, you may save your life and the life of others. Most importantly DON’T PANIC! Smoke and fumes are toxic Remember to crawl low and quickly to safety. Touch all doors to see if they are hot before you open them. If the door is hot, use an alternate escape path. If the door is cool open it carefully. Be prepared to close it quickly if you feel smoke or fire coming towards you. If for any reason, you can’t get out of the room, keep the door closed. Stuff blankets, towels or sheet in any cracks or openings around the door and heating or air conditioning ducts. Open the window as long as no smoke is entering the room. Use a bright cloth or flashlight to signal your whereabouts. If there is a phone in the room call 911 and tell them where you are. STOP, Drop and Roll if you clothing catches fire.

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Statistics and Holiday Safe Tips

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How to Protect Yourself and Others During the Upcoming Holiday Social Cheer By Stephanie Armel, TRADOC Risk Reduction Coordinator

Tis the season and with the holidays quickly approaching individuals may start planning holiday parties or receiving invites to planned gatherings in which many of those events may involve social drinking opportunities. According to the experts, if you've been struggling with alcohol addiction, binge drinking, or simply want to avoid drinking too much, social events can be particularly difficult. Drinking too much is especially common during holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years, as social events revolve around drinking, celebrations involve wine or other alcoholic drinks, and gifts of alcohol are common, even for problem drinkers. So how can you avoid drinking too much at social events? Here are the five easiest ways. 1. Set Your Limit and Stick To It Before you go out, establish the exact number of drinks you will consume in advance, using the BAC tips for men or women. Whether you are hosting a social event, or socializing with family or friends, stay strictly within your limit. If there is going to be a toast, include that drink in your limited number of drinks. 2. Don't Drink on an Empty Stomach This is a basic rule of avoiding drinking too much, but more difficult during the holidays, when you are expecting food to be part of social events, but may have to wait before it arrives. Even if you are expecting a meal, have a snack before you arrive, and drink plenty of water. This will reduce your craving for a drink and the tendency to drink too quickly. 3. Select Social Venues Wisely If you have a say in where social events are held, think about the kind of drinks that are served and the way that they are served. Things to avoid include: Free refills, pitchers, and cocktail/martinis. Places that keep refilling your glass. Places that expect you to be drinking the duration of your time there. Places that primarily make their money out of drink -- bars, clubs, and restaurants that push a wine list. Places that do not serve a good selection or your preference of non-alcoholic alternatives. Centering a party around alcohol. Good choices include: Places that serve healthy drinks which are still a treat, such as exotic blends of freshly pressed juices. Places that serve reasonably priced non-alcoholic drinks. Places where there is something to do other than drink, for example, a cafe that provides live music. Making sure food is available. Designated driver available if alcohol is served. 4. Ignore Peer Pressure Even if your employer is picking up the tab for dinner don't feel tempted to keep up with the drinking of others. Do not allow anyone to persuade you to have another drink -- change the subject or make an excuse and leave the conversation if necessary. If the event seems to be turning into a binge drinking session -- more than three drinks per person, it's time to Way to Go Team say goodbye and head home. Remember, it’s okay to say “No Sill…Keep the Thanks” numbers going 5. Re-Gift Alcoholic Gifts down!!!! For some reason, alcohol has become a gift staple when people don't know what you want. The easiest way to avoid this trap is to let people know you are quitting or cutting down on alcohol, but even then, you may receive several bottles. If you have had a problem with alcohol, it really isn't a good idea to have alcohol in the house-- re-gift it to someone who doesn't have an alcohol problem (although this can be hard to judge). These five tips revolve around three things; being responsible, making good choices and having a plan. Help keep the cheer during the holiday season; make a plan and stick with it… continue to be responsible!

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ASAP CALENDAR OF EVENTS

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NOVEMBER Sun

Mon

Tue

Wed

6 Gambler’s Anonymous (WBC, 1800)

ONE Brief

Fri

Sat

Alcoholics Anonymous (WBC, 1900)

10th Annual Health Fair (Rose Hill Church of Christ, 1000)

UPL Recert 0830-1600

ADAPT (WBC,ASAP 0830-1630)

Thu

13 Gambler’s Anonymous (WBC, 1800)

17 Fall Foliage Walk (Wildlife Refuge, 1000)

Alcoholics Anonymous (WBC, 1900)

“Table Manners” (CU Theatre, 1930)

Gambler’s Anonymous (WBC, 1800)

“Table Manners” (CU Theatre, 1400)

Alcoholics Anonymous (WBC, 1900)

BPL/UPL Training (WBC, 1000 )

27 Gambler’s Anonymous (WBC, 1800)

28 Alcoholics Anonymous (WBC, 1900)

CG Walk

Unit Prevention Leader Training (Well-Being Center, ASAP 0800-1600)

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Check out the Community Calendar.

US ARMY GARRISON FORT SILL MISSION To provide Soldiers, Civilians, Retirees and their Families with a secure installation, consistent and efficient services, and quality facilities and infrastructure . VISION With current fiscal reality, to maintain our quality services and infrastructure across the installation. To maximize available resources and to foster positive relationships with those living and working on Fort Sill as well as with our surrounding communities.

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Drug Awareness

DEAR FRAN Dear Fran, My husband of many years is nearing the end of two years of military deployment in Iraq and Afghanistan. He’s due to come back for good in a few months. Everyone around me has been very sympathetic and supportive of my family during his deployment. He himself has let us all know over and over again how anxious he is to get back home and resume his life here. I get comments all the time about how difficult this must be for me and how glad I must be to know he’ll be home this year. Well, actually, I am racked with dread. While I am anxious for him to be out of harm’s way, I am not looking forward to him resuming his place at home. Our kids (teenagers) and I have created lives without him - we have our work, school, and social schedules the way we like them. They’re different than things were when he left. My husband is a bit rigid about how he wants things done at home. The kids and I have found that we like a more relaxed approach to life. For example, we’ve taken a couple of vacations that he would never have agreed to because it’s not what he’d want to do. I have been able to cook whatever I want because he’s not here to weigh in. I go to bed when I want, watch what I want on TV, or I don’t watch it at all. I love him - and like him - but when I look at what my life and my stress level is now (low) compared with what I anticipate it being when he returns, I wonder if I’m going to make it through this homecoming and reentry into family life. And just in case anyone wonders, no, nobody else has entered the picture. The thought that “there’s somebody better out there’’ has not entered my mind. That’s the thing - I think I want to be by myself (with the kids). I’m wondering if this means that I am selfish, not a good partner, a control freak, or is this a common feeling among military wives and husbands who get used to life for long If you have any questions or conperiods without their Soldier? cerns that you would like Fran to Racked with Dread address, please contact Fran through our ASAP Facebook page: Dear Racked with Dread, You have verbalized one of the most problematic issues around deployment for families. If and when the Soldier returns to the home, it is not usually a happy reunion after the initial greetings. In your letter, you asked if this is a common problem for military spouses who have long separations. If there are not physical injuries to address, your issue will rank number 1. All of you have been forced to adapt to an alternate way of living, and, although you might not have had that choice in the intact marriage, it can become something you like better and want to continue. Sounds like you have been making many concessions and compromises to live with this man you love. You let him have control of most decisions because it helped avoid conflict, but that often meant resentment and disappointment. But, because you now know how it feels to live by your choices, your stress level is low and you do not want to think of the changes that will have to happen when he returns to what he thinks is the “right way” to do things. Counseling right from the start, during the “honeymoon period” may be the only way to create a win-win situation. Conflict management is not just for strangers. Many of the marriages that are casualties of deployment dissolve when a spouse is not able to step back and let things fall back into old patterns that they did not like or agree with before deployment. He will need to know things have changed and you are happy to take it slow and show him how the household works now. The kids will feel better if they are allowed to show him how they have survived while counting the days until his return. Tina Turner famously stated “What’s love got to do with it?” I think this applies here. Your” love/like” will begin to disappear under a mountain of resentment and stress if you cannot address the issue up front, so that your soldier understands that you want an equal say in how and when things are addressed that concern the family. Our Employee Assistance Program provider, RaShonda Labrador, is available to help with issues like this. She is pleasant, talented, full of information and non -judgmental. Working with her is like setting down with a friend for a conversation. She can help with answers, but it is not like going for counseling. Give her a call and see if she can see you prior to his return. Making a plan, rehearsing what needs to be said, having the families’ best interest at heart (not just selfish needs) can result in a relationship that continues and grows. All Soldiers, including National Guard and Reservists face this problem but on a much grander scale. Be pro-active and address the “dread” before it becomes “divorce”. Give us a call at ASAP/Well Being Center.

Fran Alltizer,

Fran

LCSW, ASAP Supervisor

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Drugged? Mum Tells All

Britney Spears' mum has claimed that the singer's exmanager crushed drugs into her food. According to the BBC, Lynne Spears has told a US court that Sam Lufti admitted to drugging the 'Toxic' singer in the past in order to help her go to sleep, and had also limited her channels of communication by cutting off her phone lines. Lufti is suing Spears and her parents for defamation, breach of contract and libel, and claimed last week that she was addicted to amphetamines. He is seeking millions of dollars after claiming that Spears' mother's book Through the Storm: A Real Story of Fame and Family in a Tabloid World, which was released in 2008, allege that he drugged Spears and manipulated the singer and her family. In the book, Lynne Spears claimed that Lufti had admitted to her that he had taken to crushing pills in Spears' meals in 2007, during a frenetic period in which the singer infamously shaved her head, lost custody of her children and was briefly hospitalized. Asked about her allegations, she said: “Those were his exact words. I was very worried and I didn't know what to do so I tried to get her away from there.” She also admitted, however, that she hadn't gone to the police over Lufti's alleged actions, stating:"I was so worried about Britney, I didn't know what to do when I found out Sam was crushing pills... I didn't call the authorities." Last week (October 21), the court was told that Spears' father, Jamie, feared for his daughter's life and was so alarmed by her alleged drug-fuelled meltdown five years ago that he believed he'd turn on the TV and discover that she had died. The singer, who released her seventh studio album 'Femme Fatale' in March last year and has recently been starring as a judge on The X Factor USA, is not expected to appear at the trial. Ref: www.nme.com

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SPOTLIGHT

Melinda Way-Bonner, DHR, ASD

What is your favorite word or phrase? Selfless What is your least favorite word? Lack What turns you on? Positive and Inspiring people What turns you off? Negative attitudes What sound or noise do you love? My children's laughter What sound or noise do you hate? The sound of someone clipping their nails What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? Clothing Designer What profession would you not like to do? Meat Butcher Who do you admire most, and why? I can't choose just one. I admire people who are comfortable with who they are and who fulfill their purpose. What is your ideal vacation? Jamaica for at least 10 days! EAP Mental Health Minute: Make Time for Personal Relationships People with close relationships feel good, suffer less anxiety and depression, and are more fulfilled through old age. But personal relationships take some effort.  Make time for friendship, no matter how busy you are. Schedule time with friends on your calendar.  Don’t let a misunderstanding get in the way of a great friendship. Be willing to talk openly. Communication is key to lasting friendships.  Make time for family and extended family. Plan visits with those who live near and far.  Keep on making new friends throughout your life.

Mind Expansion

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Ft. Sill Talks Back

“My family and my soon to be son. It is our first child due near Christmas time frame.” -SGT Shelton, Johnny 434 BDE Det

What are you thankful for and why?

“I am thankful for living another day of life with my family. My family has supported me thru difficult times in the Army and overcome obstacles thru my career. If it wasn’t for my family I wouldn’t be where I am today.” -SSG Rountree, Georgina A 1/40 “I am thankful for having a wife and three kids they make my days enjoyable and fun, also give me a reason to live for and work hard to give them what they deserve in life.” -SGT Arroyo, Francisco HHB 434th

“I am most thankful for opportunity to serve in the United States Army. Everyone does not have the opportunity to serve.” -SFC Stacey Smith Dallas Recruiting Battalion

Brainteaser November Brainteaser A man worked for a high-security institution, and one day he went in to work only to find that he could not log in to his computer terminal. His password wouldn't work. Then he remembered that the passwords are reset every month for security purposes. So he went to his boss and they had this conversation: Man-"Hey boss, my password is out of date." Boss-"Yes, that's right. The password is different, but if you listen carefully you should be able to figure out the new one: It has the same amount of letters as your old password, but only four of the letters are the same." Man: "Thanks boss." With that, he went and correctly logged into his station. What was the new password? BONUS: What was his old password? Answer in next month’s issue October’s Brainteaser Answer: Flip one switch on and wait a minute. Flip it off and flip another switch on. Teleport to the room. The switch you just flipped corresponds to the light that's on. Feel the two bulbs that are off. The switch you flipped first corresponds to the hot bulb, while the switch you never flipped corresponds to the room-temperature bulb.

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Complete Well-Being

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Time to Splurge—Pumpkin Pie

Wellness Window THE HEALTHY HOLIDAY FRUIT! Here is a look at the health benefits in eating cranberries:  They prevent ulcers by preventing certain types of bacteria from sticking to the stomach.  They have significant anti-aging properties and can help to boost memory power and coordination, both of which are aspects that tend to decrease with age. It flavanoids prevent bad cholesterol from accumulating in the arteries, this preventing arteriosclerosis.  There is an element in cranberries which prevents plaque from forming in teeth. It acts as a prophylaxis for gingivitis. The polyphenolic constituents have shown to be effective in preventing several types of cancers.  They can reduce oxidation of bad cholesterol.  Juice from cranberries has show effectiveness in preventing the formation of kidney stones. Cranberry juice has also shown ability to fight against bacterial infections in the urinary system because of their ability to flight of bacteria Helicobacter pylori and Escherichia coli. Cranberry seeds are rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids as well as vitamin E. all of these are helpful in counteracting the effects of aging. Oil taken from Cranberry seeds has the lowest amount of saturated fat and can be used in cooking. For more information regarding the IMCOM & DOD Wellness Program please click the following links: IMCOM WELLNESS DOD WELLNESS

· 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin · 1 (14 ounce) can EAGLE BRAND® Sweetened Condensed Milk · 2 large eggs · 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon · 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger · 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg · 1/2 teaspoon salt · 1 (9 inch) unbaked pie crust Directions: Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Whisk pumpkin, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, spices and salt in medium bowl until smooth. Pour into crust. Bake 15 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 350 degrees F and continue baking 35 to 40 minutes or until knife inserted 1 inch from crust comes out clean. Cool. Garnish as desired. Store leftovers covered in refrigerator. Ref: Food Network

PEACEFUL PLAZA: Visualize Serenity

Click: SERENITY to relax and enjoy this month’s featured “Peaceful Plaza Guided Imagery segment as provided through healthjourneys.com Reference: helpguide.org

· Listen to inspiring music or video and/or stretch or exercise (with your doctor’s OK) · Try and keep your home and your car neat and clean and in perfect running order. Order and beauty help us feel great and a good running car can save so much time and frustration · Learn some deep, slow breathing techniques to slow your heart rate and renew yourself · Taking mini vacations. Recent research indicates that a two to four day outing can be just as physically and emotionally rewarding as a one, or two week excursion. · Arrange for a massage or perhaps invite the spouse for a couples massage · Soak in a bath while doing aromatherapy · Go for a walk in nature · Participate in a choir or religious activity · Engaging in creative activities such as painting, sculpting or crafts

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Etiquette and Manager’s Notes

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Manager’s Memo: Mattering??? “But I still wake up, I still see your ghost Oh Lord, I'm still not sure what I stand for oh. What do I stand for? What do I stand for? Most nights, I don't know anymore…” - Lyrics from “Some Nights” by Fun The sidewalks around our building were recently renovated. The workers jack-hammered and cleared away all the old cement sidewalks and By Jay Khalifeh positioned boards to help form the new cement. After all the pounding and the base was readied, the cement trucks rolled in dumping load after load of fresh cement. Almost as soon as the wet cement was smoothed over, (and, of course after the workers left for the day) a team of employees and Soldiers rolled in finding a corner of the wet cement to call their own. They scrawled out a message that they hoped would endure and stand the test of time. The sidewalks were branded in a variety of ways. Lovers proclaimed their love forever with their initials inside a heart.. Some simply said…”(fill in the blank) was here.” Some made handprints or impressions with their feet. It reminded me of this burning desire we all have to make an impression...to let the world that we were here. Whether we work in an office or in the warehouse, we all want to matter. Moreover, managers want their employees to make an impact, and employees want managers to be effective. And, I believe many of workplace issues arise because someone feels like they are prevented from or unable, for whatever reason, to be consequential. None of us want, or should want, to be insignificant. Now, if we all, or, at least most, of us want to matter, it would seem fairly straight-forward. We just have to find a way to facilitate maximum contribution amongst ALL members of a worksite. But this is not the case. If we assume each employee does not want to waste their lives at work and yearns to be engaged, there are some things we can presume. They will want to know what is specifically expected of them and to be held accountable. They’ll want to know how their daily activities impacts an organization and the Army. They would like the flexibility in achieving objectives by using their own creativity and insights. They also would like to be recognized for outstanding efforts. They would want to know what is going on in the organization and to be kept informed. Moreover, they would like to be included in decision-making about their jobs and that their opinions count to leaders. If we assume that they want to be impactful then we must also realize their needs to be developed and challenged intellectually and professionally. Otherwise, they may feel stagnant and unable to contribute in a high tempo Army. So, we all want to be remembered. And, for most of us we want to be remembered for the same things. The qualities we seek in managers and colleagues alike have been traits that have been appreciated since the beginning of recorded history. Let’s not complicate this point, just think of the American heroes we remember today. The Washington’s and Lincoln’s the Kennedy’s and the Martin Luther King Jr.’s. What were some of the qualities they shared. Courageous, honest,, generous, and humble are some of the qualities that come to mind. Most were fair, yet tactful, self-disciplined yet flexible, passionate yet steady under pressure, driven, yet able to laugh at themselves. We cannot control what people will say or write about us. However, I believe we are most impressive when we find our purpose and help others to do the same. And, the impression you leave in them will outlast any statue erected in your honor

Only 18% of U.S. Adults Expect to Stop Working when They Reach Retirement Age According to a 2012 global survey of workers and retirees, among U.S. respondents, only 18% of current workers are "expecting to stop working immediately when they reach retirement age." Worldwide, the majority of current workers (60%) expect to keep working in some manner beyond their retirement age. Aegon. (2012). The changing face of retirement : The Aegon retirement readiness survey 2012. The Hague, Netherlands: Aegon Group. Retrieved from www.aegon.com.

Workplace Etiquette 101: Watch your language, Potty-mouth. Anything you do during the day—even while you’re on break—is a reflection of your professional self. Make sure you don’t allow a customer to witness or hear your bad behavior. It doesn’t matter how polite you are on the phone or at the front desk. It only takes one time to drop the “F” bomb while on break to ruin your professionalism!

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Holiday Fitness and Lawful Moments

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7 Tips to Relieve Holiday Stress While „tis the season to be merry, for many of us, it‟s also a season for stress, anxiety and angst, which leads us to behave in ways we‟re sure to regret later. During this time of year, people often resort to bad habits—they may cave into sugar cravings, go for the booze and overdose on caffeine. In part, that‟s because, during the holidays, people tend to experience heightened emotions. Unless you lean on effective relaxation and self-love techniques, as well as positive self-talk, all your worries may trigger overeating or binging, overloading on alcohol, arguments with your loved ones, skipping regular exercise, not getting enough sleep and neglecting your needs. To help you have a happy season, here are 7 Tips to Relieve Holiday Stress: Take calm-down breaks. Soon after you awake, close your eyes, take several deep breaths and meditate or just relax. Imagine yourself in a beautiful place, think of a happy memory or visualize yourself succeeding at a cherished goal. In addition, whenever you get stressed out, anxious or feel overwhelmed during the day, take quick relaxation breaks of 1 to 5 minutes to calm yourself down. Conscious, slow breathing can help you when you‟re feeling frustrated waiting in line at the supermarket, post office or drug store. Put on rose-colored glasses. When people try to push their bad habits on you during this holiday season, tune into their motivations. For instance, before you get annoyed at Aunt Jane, who keeps urging you to try a piece of her apple pie, or your co-worker Frank, who keeps trying to fill your glass with booze, first take a deep breath. Then, step into their shoes and realize that Jane is just showing that she loves you, and Frank is merely trying to be convivial. Then graciously thank them for their misguided attention. Rather than view your situation with annoyance, be grateful instead. Get moving. Perhaps one of the best ways to overcome stress during the holidays or any other time is to exercise regularly. Research shows that physical activity not boosts your fitness and energy levels but can also elevate your moods. In addition, exercise has been found to reduce anger, tension, fatigue and confusion. Despite the many demands on your time, this is not the season to stop exercising. Go for real foods mostly. Inevitably, at this time of year, you‟ll be tempted with sugary, empty-calorie “treats” just about wherever you go. But to be your most energetic, focused and happy self, it‟s best to eat foods that grow on trees or on the ground (vegetables and fruits) and to choose healthy fats (such as olive oil and flax seeds), lean protein (such as fish and organic chicken) and legumes, nuts and seeds. Take polite portions of “comfort” foods and drinks. During the holidays, it‟s easy to “fall off the wagon” and use—or over-use— alcohol, sugar and caffeine. It‟s best to think before you treat your body like a trash can instead of a temple. The best way to stay true to the best you is to limit your consumption of such comfort or pleasure foods and drinks as apple pie, cookies, pasta and eggnog. When offered these and other “goodies,” try to take three to five “polite” bites and sips—and only after having a well-balanced meal with smart carbs (vegetables, fruits or whole grains), fats and protein. Prepare “Nice To Do For Me" and “Need to Do For You” lists. Writing down all that you have to do during the holidays will help you realize how do-able your tasks are. Be realistic as to what you put on your lists. Then start tackling one item from each list in turn. For example, after buying gifts for your mom or significant other, take time to work out, too. By alternating between lists, you won‟t feel deprived, because you‟re being good to yourself. Be generous. One of the best ways to stay calm, content and cheerful this time of year is to act generously with your loved ones, co-workers and friends. This doesn‟t have to mean you‟re spending a lot of money. You can be generous with your compliments. You can generously offer to do a loved one‟s dreaded errand. You can generously write a fun, short poem. When you are creative with your gifts and thank you‟s, people will appreciate your real, heartfelt sentiments.

Lawful Moments with Fort Sill OSJA

ARTICLE 138 – A Powerful Tool for the Aggrieved Soldier By CPT Tarik J. Downie, JA, Administrative Law Division

Article 138 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice, provides an administrative process for servicemembers to make a formal complaint against their commander. This only applies after a servicemember requests a remedy or redress from the commander and the request is denied. A complaint can then be made through any superior officer, who will then forward the complaint up to the General Court-Martial Convening Authority (GCMCA). The GCMCA of Fort Sill is MG Mark McDonald. So, prior to attempting to file an Article 138 complaint, seeking advice from a Legal Assistance attorney is highly recommended. Generally, a commander’s actions are presumed proper. However, Article 138 provides a means for Soldiers to seek an administrative review of their commander’s actions if they believe the actions to be unjustified. This process should however only be used as a last resort. It is only available if there is no other statutory or regulatory avenue of appeal. Examples of actions for which an Article 138 complaint should not be submitted can be found in AR 27-10, paragraph 20-5b and include complaining about an unfair NCOER before using the appeal process for evaluations. An Article 138 complaint involves the following steps: 1. A Soldier files a written request for redress or remedy with the commander concerned. The commander has 15 days to reply. If it is not possible for the commander to reply within the 15 days, the commander must provide an interim response with estimated date for final response. 2. If the commander denies redress, the Soldier submits an Article 138 complaint, in writing, to the Soldier’s immediate superior commissioned officer. The complaint must be submitted within 90 days of discovery of the alleged wrong. The time a request for redress with the commander is pending does not count towards the 90 day time period. 3. The complaint is processed through the chain of command to the GCMCA which had authority over the commander at the time of the alleged wrong. Anyone in the GCMCA chain of command may grant the Soldier redress. 4. The GCMCA will examine the complaint; the type of examination conducted will be discretionary. The GCMCA may delegate the examination of the complaint in which case there will be an investigation conducted in accordance with AR 15-6. The GCMCA will personally act on the complaint and notify the Soldier in writing. The GCMCA will forward the complaint to HQDA, regardless of the outcome of the complaint.

VOLUME

ISSUE

Inspire and Encourage

EAP INSPIRATION STATION: In Everything Give Thanks Don’t you dare go around complaining about all that’s wrong. Change your focus. I understand you may not have your health, but you do have your family. You can be grateful for that. You may not be able to walk, but you can see. Joel Osteen Thank God for your sight. You may not have a job right now, but your mind works, your arms work, your legs work. We all have something to be grateful for. Keep the right point of view. If you have a hard time getting to sleep at night, think about all the homeless people without beds. If you are stuck in traffic, think about all the people who can’t afford cars. If you have a bad day at the office, think about all those who are unemployed. If you have to walk three blocks to church, thank God that you are healthy and able to walk. If your hair is turning gray, be grateful it’s not turning loose! Being grateful is a key to staying happy. That’s why King David said, “I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth” (Psalm 34:1 AMP). Notice how often he will praise the Lord? Continually! David knew a secret. You can’t praise and complain at the same time. If you’re constantly thanking God for what He’s done and praising Him for His blessings while meditating on His goodness, you won’t have time to focus on what’s wrong or to complain about what you don’t have. We all are tested every day. In your difficult times, when somebody is rude to you, when you go through a disappointment, when you get a negative report, when you child acts up, what will you say? “Poor old me. I can’t believe this is happening”? Or will you say, “Father, I want to thank You that I’m more than a conqueror. No weapon formed against me will prosper. You always cause me to triumph. I want to thank You that I’m not only making it through, but I’m making it through better off than I was before.” The Scripture says in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, “In everything give thanks” (NKJV). It doesn’t say to give thanks for everything. We don’t thank God for the troubles, for sickness or accidents. But we thank him for trouble we’re coming out of. We thank Him in the difficulty He’s turning around. We thank Him for bringing us increase and promotion in a slow economy. Any time you have an opportunity to complain, let that be a reminder to give God praise. Just turn it around and thank Him for working in your life. Remember, complaining only delays better days. But when you praise, God steps in to fight your battles for you!

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The “Character” Couch Gracious a : marked by kindness and courtesy <a gracious host> b : Graceful. c : marked by tact and delicacy d : characterized by charm, good taste, generosity of spirit Synonyms: AFFABLE, CORDIAL, GENIAL, HOSPITABLE, SOCIABLE

Antonyms: INHOSPITABLE, UNGENIAL, UNGRACIOUS, UNSOCIABLE

EAP Funny Corner Click picture to find out how my fall is hilariously inspirational!! Civilian Education System Recommended Reading List Army Management Staff College (AMSC) has a recommended reading list for Civilian Education System (CES) courses. The Directorate of Human Resources has compiled a library of books listed by AMSC for reading before or during each of the courses. The library is located in room G35, building 4700 and are available to check out. For a list of available books, please click on the link below. Any civilian employee with questions about the Civilian Education System should call the office of Workforce Development at 442-0147/0149. https://sillc2doi462002/dhr/Workforce_Dev_Intranet_Web_Page/ Workforce_Dev_Intranet_Index.htm

ASAP WISHES YOU AND YOURS A VERY HAPPY THANKSGIVING! YOUR EAP IS READY TO SERVE

COME VISIT US AT:

Well-Being Center, ASAP 3415 Miner Road Ft. Sill, OK 73503 Phone: 580-442-4205 Fax: 580-442-5704

EAP Services to Employees and Supervisors:

 

RaShonda M. Labrador, MS, EAPC (580)442-4205/6306 rashonda.labrador@us.army.

Assessment, problem identification, and short-term counseling/intervention. Referral for treatment and rehabilitation to appropriate community counseling/treatment resources. Follow-up services to aid an employee in achieving an effective readjustment to his or her job after treatment. Training and education for supervisors and employees about alcohol and drugs.

 E-mail: rashonda.labrador@us.army.mil Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/  Lawton-OK/Fort-Sill-Army-SubstanceAbuse- Program/115638415119642 EAP Services to the Installation Organization: Website: http://sill-www.army.mil/USAG/ DHR/ASAP/  Training and consultation for supervisors and managers on how and when to make proper use of EAP services for improving employee performance and conduct.

Sneak Peek: What to Expect Next Month CHRISTMAS IS COMING…...

The holiday season is upon us and before you know it December will be here. December marks the beginning of the year’s end, and it serves as the driver for new beginnings!! During next month’s edition, we will provide tips for successful resolution planning, winter weather safety, and last minute gift ideas. Until next time…..stay positive, support someone in need, and be THANKFUL!

TIME FOR REJUVENATION!!!

HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY???

There will be NO ASAP Community Training during the month of November or December 2012. January 2013 will be the next opportunity for all to receive their Substance Abuse Prevention and Life Skills Training in accordance with AR 600-85. There is an annual 2 hour requirement for Civilians and 4 hour requirement for Soldiers. We hope to see you out at our next training event. Have a wonderful holiday season!!

WE WANT YOU TO SHARE YOUR WORST AND BEST HOLIDAY EXPERIENCE Please contact us if you HAVE A STORY TO SHARE!! Your story will be greatly appreciated for next month’s issue. Anonymity requests will be respected. ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE?? Contact me at 580-442-4205/6306 or at rashonda.labrador@us.army.mil. I look forward to hearing from you!!