VOLUME 69, NUMBER 49 NAVAL AIR STATION PATUXENT RIVER, MARYLAND DECEMBER 13, 2012

Father, son taketwilight cruisePage 4

Fire ScoutendurancePage 7

Sailors ofthe YearPage 5

Chef Mackey transformsRiver's Edge into dough

U.S. Navy photo by Connie Hempel

River's Edge Executive Chef Doug Mackey displays his mini River's Edge ginger-bread house Dec. 5 at the River's Edge Catering and Conference Center. The made-from-scratch house is to scale, taking Mackey 48 hours over a couple of days tocomplete. It is on display at the River's Edge.

By Rico MacaraegNavy Exchange Public Affairs

An event Navy Exchange customersdon't want to miss is soon approachingas the NEX here celebrates its first ever"Customer Appreciation Day" Friday.

Navy Exchanges around the worldcelebrate customer appreciation dayin support of military members andfamilies. Pax River's NEX is holding theannual event so its customers can reapextra savings and benefits just in timefor the holidays.

"We are excited that we're able tosupport NAS Pax families with these ex-tra savings and benefits during the hol-iday season," said Cathie Reihl, general

manager for the Pax River NEX. "It's im-portant that we get our message outthere that we are committed in takingcare of our Sailors, retirees and theirfamilies."

Reihl said this one-day event bringseven better deals than their best known"everyday values" with extra savings onTVs and tablets, to name a few.

"'You Serve, You Save,' is somethingthat is very important to us, in promot-ing the benefit of the Navy Exchange,"Reihl said. "We are even offering extraunadvertised discounts on a broadrange of items."

"We have much for which to bethankful and the Christmas season is

Pax NEX salutes customerswith appreciation day Friday

See NEX, Page 5

Environmental wins16th stewardship awardBy Donna CipolloniTester staff writer

There's a Native American proverbthat states, "We do not inherit the Earthfrom our ancestors, we borrow it fromour children," and the Naval FacilitiesEngineering Command EnvironmentalDivision at NAS Patuxent River takesthat philosophy seriously.

For the last 16 years, Pax River hasbeen awarded the Regional Navy Com-munity Service Program of the YearAward for Environmental Stewardship.The award honors Navy commandsthat engage in exemplary voluntarycommunity service activities that pro-mote education and make a differencein environmental preservation. For 15of those 16 years, they also went on towin the Navy-wide award; a feat LanceMcDaniel, environmental division di-rector, said was made possible thanks tothe leadership of Kyle Rambo and LarryDonmoyer and the environmental staffat Pax River.

"[They] understand why they'rehere and have a passion for what they

do," he said. "They take a proactive ap-proach to community outreach notonly because of their commitment toeducation, but also because they arepart of this community."

Part of their proactive approach in-cludes educating the base communitythat Pax is a 7,400-acre ecological sys-tem that is merely a subset of theChesapeake Bay ecological system.

"What we do here influences it andvice versa," McDaniel said. "Steward-ship is paramount."

Between July 2011 and June 2012—the period covered by this year'saward—staff and staff-trained volun-teers spent more than 2,000 hours en-gaged in community education pro-grams mentoring, tutoring and educat-ing the area's student and adult popu-lations of all ages by donating their timeevenings and weekends, or using theirown personal days off.

Outreach subject matter covers di-verse environmental issues such as PaxRiver's natural and cultural resources,Chesapeake Bay ecosystem, forestry,outdoor safety, animal habitats, Mary-land history, archaeology, pollution pre-vention and recycling.

Proactive outreachearns region honors

See Award, Page 10

HappyHanukkah

New CDC director comes to Pax

Tester2 Thursday, December 13, 2012

By Donna CipolloniTester staff writer

The Child Development Home programat NAS Patuxent River might be the answerfor those parents seeking a more intimate,home-like atmosphere for their child's daycare situation.

CDH is a program in which qualified care-givers provide regulated child care services forup to six children, out of their own homes.

"Our home-care providers have the sametraining and undergo the same backgroundchecks as the personnel in our child care cen-ters but there's a lower caregiver/child ratio,which is a big benefit," said Bobbye Fe-dorkowicz, program monitor. "Plus the cost is20 percent less than the centers' prices be-cause of lower overhead."

CDH providers are limited to six childrento include their own under age 8. "And onlytwo of those children can be below the age of2 years," Fedorkowicz said.

Flexibility may be another advantage to in-home care.

"Providers can choose their hours but theymust meet the Navy's needs," Fedorkowiczsaid. "They can do after hours or weekendhours if necessary, or requested. Or they canmeet the need of a single Sailor who may re-quire overnight care."

To obtain fulltime in-home child care, allparents must register their children throughthe Central Enrollment Waiting List main-tained by Naval DistrictWashington.

"It's a prioritized waiting list," Fedorkowiczexplained."Active-dutyparentshavefirstprioritybuttheprogramisalsoopentoDODemployeesand contractors on a space available basis."

Mikel Proulx and Janet Stone are twoworking moms who both agree on the posi-tive impact in-home day care has had on theirchildren.

Stone, a DOD contractor, said her 4-year-old son knows his colors and shapes, is work-ing on his letters and does artistic projects forholidays and the seasons.

"He has made friends there and likes hisday care provider's kids and husband," she

said. "They've even come to his birthday par-ty. I never hear any complaints from him."

Proulx's daughter , 2 ½ years old, has beenin the CDH program since she was an infant.

"This program gives me the opportunityto go to work with peace of mind because Iknow my daughter is in a safe environmentwhere she's having fun and learning at thesame time," said Proulx, a visual informationspecialist. "It's affordable and it's less than amile away here on base, so I can even run overduring lunch. It feels like my daughter is withher second mom."

CDH providers must undergo compre-hensive training and receive Navy certifica-tion. Before they open their homes for busi-ness, they must be inspected by NAS fire andemergency services and the Naval HealthClinic. Once in operation, CDH representa-tives arrive unannounced once a month for areview and CNIC chooses three homes ran-domly once a year for an unannounced de-tailed inspection.

"Any parents considering in-home daycare are welcome to arrange a tour of theprovider's homes," Fedorkowicz said.

For more information or assistance withthe Child Development Home program, or tolearn more about becoming a CDH in-homeprovider,contactFedorkowiczat301-342-3960oremailheratBobbye.Fedorkowicz@navy.mil.

CDH program providesday care in a home setting

Courtesy photo

Child Development Home providerAmy Fournier, left, and Lila Proulxdo puzzles together on a learningtablet. Lila, 2 ½, has been in theCDH program since she was 8months old.

Waldron aims for smoothtransition into new building

By Connie HempelNAS Patuxent River Public Affairs

New Child Development Center DirectorBJ Waldron said her first goal here is to in-corporate Pax's two CDC programs into one,building one team under one roof.

"That's the biggest piece to ensuring asmooth transition into the new facility,"Waldron said about her plans for the newCDC building, which opens this spring. "Wehave a great responsibility to take care ofthese children and to help with their devel-opment."

Waldron, who holds a bachelor's degreein family and child development from Vir-ginia Tech, brings along 20 years experienceworking with children and day care centersaround Maryland.

"She is a welcome addition to our teamand I am excited to add her experience toour program," said Phyllis Leighton, Childand Youth Programs director.

Before arriving at Pax in December, Wal-dron was a child care licensing specialist forthe state of Maryland, did programming forthe parks and recreation department, and

was a child care provider trainer with thePromise Resource Center, formerly knownas the Southern Maryland Child Care Re-source Center in Charlotte Hall.

Waldron said in addition to learning asmuch as she can about the current pro-grams in CDC buildings 2030 and 434, she'salso adjusting to the military way of doingthings.

BJ Waldron

See CDC, Page 7

By Connie HempelNAS Patuxent River Public Affairs

Continuing a tradition launched this sum-mer,NavalAirSystemsCommandAIR6.0,host-ed its second NAVAIR Logistics Days Dec. 4-5 atCenter Stage Theater with speakers on hand todiscusstheneedfortheBetterBuyingPower2.0initiative in a time of continued budget cuts.

Staff fromFleetReadinessCenterCommandand NAVAIR AIR 6.0, Logistics and IndustrialOperations, heard first-hand from keynotespeakers Sue Dryden, Deputy assistant Secre-tary of Defense Material Readiness, and JamesThomsen, Principal civilian deputy assistantSecretary of the Navy (Research, Developmentand Acquisition) about the goals and processesof the Defense Under Secretary's better buyinginitiative.

Dryden said the keys to sustain balance astheDepartmentofDefensetransitionsfromfis-cal year 2013 budget and operations to fiscalyear 2018 are to "adapt, improvise and over-come."

She also stressed the importance of leader-ship by example.

Top-level leadersarechargedwithprovidingvision and strategic guidance while the Office of

the Secretary of Defense and each service de-partment's senior leader must refine and definegoals, providing clear guidance and direction.

Dryden said leaders at all levels should alsobe finding innovative solutions.

Shelistedthetop10DODmoney-savingtipsshe typically hears when she speaks to groups.Number one: "Be willing to think, act and dothings differently to spend less—innovate!"

Thomsen asked the crowd, "How do wecontinuetoprovidetheremarkablecapabilitieswe provide with a smaller budget?Think BetterBuying Power."

"I often tell people in acquisition there is

Logistics Days featureBetter Buying Power 2.0

See Logistics, Page 12

By Connie HempelNAS Patuxent River Public Affairs

Fire and rescue personnel responded to anafternoon blaze Dec. 7 in the Lovell Cove hous-ing area, which left no injuries, but more than$100, 000 in property damage to one of the pri-vatized duplex units.

Twenty-eight first responders and a total offour fire trucks from NAS Pax River and the BayDistrictVolunteer Fire Department were able tocontain the blaze within minutes, keeping thefamily who called the unit "home" safe.

"It was an incredibly quick response by ourfirefighters," said Fire Chief Richard Wilson,Naval DistrictWashington/NAS Pax River.

With one crew fighting the front of the blazeand a second fighting it from the back, Wilson,who was the incident commander at the scene,said,"Theywereabletoextinguishthefirewithin5 minutes of being on location."

Theirquickresponseandthefirewallbuilt inbetween each adjoining unit helped to containthefiretotheupstairsbedroomwhereitstarted,Wilson said. The only damage sustained to theadjoiningunitwascausedbywaterseepageun-der the floor boards.

Wilson said the BDVFW and an ambulancefromtheLexingtonParkVolunteerRescueSquadwere called for mutual aid in case they wereneeded.

Whilethecauseofthefireisstillunderinves-tigation,thepreliminaryfireinspectorreportes-timatesitleftbehindabout$100,000indamages,not including the residents' personal property.

"Although the home is currently uninhabit-able,themostimportantfactisthatthefamilywasnot harmed during the incident," said Capt. TedMills, NAS Patuxent River commanding officer."Wemakeitapointtotakecareofourfamilies.Inthissituation,notonlywereweabletoquicklyex-tinguish the fire, within an hour we were able tosecure accommodations for that family."

The National Fire Academy estimates 16,800firesinresidentialbuildings intheU.S.aresetin-tentionallywithcookingbeingtheleadingcause,followed by heating.

Fire department tacklesLovell Cove blaze

Life lessonsCommentary by Christopher ConnellyNaval District Washington District FireChief at NAS Patuxent River

Our community must have a vigilant,comprehensive approach to fire prevention.

Everyone in each household and workplace needs to be aware of hazards that in-crease the risk of fires and the potentiallydevastating damages fires can cause to peo-ple and property.

Leading cause: CLeading cause: CookingookingWhen cooking, watchfulness is critical. If

you need to leave the cooking area, makesure the entire cooking area is safe: Turneverything off and double check.Turn all pothandles inward to prevent them from beingknocked over onto yourself or a small child.

SSecond leading cause: Hecond leading cause: Heating, electreating, electricalicalEnsure household appliances are used

as they were intended. Make sure the appli-ances are marked with UL compliance.Don't overload any electrical systems.

FirFireplaces and candleseplaces and candlesIt only takes one fiery ember to fall un-

noticed onto a carpet and a fire can start, ora drip from hot candle wax onto a com-bustible surface to ignite a fire.

Lighters and matchesLighters and matchesLighters and matches should only be

used by adults or under direct adult super-vision. Never leave these items out and al-ways keep them out of the reach of children.

For more information on fire preventionsafety tips and how to better protect youand your family from fire, contact the NavalDistrict Washington Fire and EmergencyServices, Naval Air Station Patuxent RiverFire Prevention Division at 301-757-4681.

Sue Dryden James Thomsen

Tester 3Thursday, December 13, 2012 3Thursday, December 13, 2012

News briefs

NAS Emergency Managerurges AtHOC enrollmentBy Connie HempelNAS Patuxent River Public Affairs

It may have been a mild winter last year and forecasts pre-dict the same for 2012, but those who have been around for awhile are no strangers to the types of winter storms that cancome through Maryland.

In fact, it was early 2010 when the region found itself buriedunder 2 feet of snow, most of which fell in just 36 hours. Thatwas Jerome Ray's first full winter here.

Ray is the NAS Patuxent River emergency manager, andhaving experienced first-hand what many have dubbed"Snowmageddon," he's ready for whatever this year's winter,which officially starts Dec. 21, may bring.

"Whether we get lots of snow or minimal snow, our plannever changes," he said.

With a 24-36 hour notice from FleetWeather Center Norfolkof an upcoming event, Ray and his Emergency Managementteam roll out the response plan.

"When we get that notice, we start staging the equipment,and we begin notifying (certain response) personnel and startsending out advisories to the masses," he said.

These advisories are broadcast through local media, postedon the internet and on Facebook, but registering through theAtHOC system allows people to receive these messages directlyto their email, cell phone or both.

While the media and web can reach thousands of people,Ray said there are plenty who don't get the messages. Add tothat, the desktop popups on an NMCI computer only workwhen the person is at their desk and logged into their NMCIaccount. What happens when they're away from their desk?That's where Ray stresses the value of registering with AtHOC.

"It's important to be in the know," he said. "Knowing whatthe prediction is, what the event may be and what that eventwill bring with it."

AtHOC messages can be sent to home and cell phones,TTY/TDD phones, pagers, faxes, and personal and work emails.

"We don't use it to advertise barbecues or car washes, weonly use it for official business," Ray said.

Currently, about 50 percent of the installation's population

is signed up to receive AtHOC messages, and that 50 percent hasopted to only receive messages on their work email and workphone. Users for the other options, such as home phone, cellphone and personal email, are in the single-digit percentages.

Only individuals with an NMCI account are automaticallyregistered to receive AtHOC messages, and those messages willonly appear via desktop notification on their workstation un-less they opt for additional methods, Ray explained.

"If you have the option to sign up for AtHOC you should,"Ray said. "I think it's worth it to be in the know; knowingwhether the installation is functioning at 100 percent or evenknowing when you're leaving work if the route you're going totake is impeded," he said

Along with being in the know is being prepared, Ray added."If people took the time to go to Ready.Navy.gov, they'd see

some of the things they should have on-hand to sustain themfor at least 72-hours: batteries, flashlights, water," he said."Ready.Navy.gov offers a lot of recommendations to help peo-ple get through an event until they can go out and replenishtheir stock or until help can get to them."

Ready Navy is the Navy's revised readiness campaignwhich launched this hurricane season. It is aimed at empow-ering people through preparedness.

To register for AtHOC or to update contact options, visitwww.Ready.Navy.mil, click on Stay Informed and then WideArea Alert Notification from their NMCI or One Net networkedcomputer, or email Jerome Ray at Jerome.Ray@navy.mil orChief Damage Controlman EricWolf at Eric.Wolf@navy.mil toregister.

Be ready, stay informed

U.S. Navy photo by Kelly Schindler

Whether it's a winter storm such as Snowmage-den 2010, pictured here, or road closures impedingPax Pros commute to or from work, be ready andbe informed by registering for AtHOC messages.

NAS security department holiday leave willreduce manning slightly at the gates startingDec 13. Please allow extra time for access to theinstallation by departing your residence at least30-45 minutes early. Gate services are:

GGate Oneate One• Open and augmented to expedite traffic: Dec.13-14, Dec. 17-21, Jan. 2-4 and Jan. 7-10.• Open with no augmentation: Dec. 24, Dec. 26-28, and Dec. 31.• Closed weekends, Dec. 25 and Jan. 1.• Normal manning resumes Jan. 11: 5:30 a.m. to6:30 p.m. weekdays.

GGate Twoate Two• Normal operations with limited augmentation.

GGate Thrate Threeee• Open 5:30-8:30 a.m. for inbound and out-bound traffic. Open 3:30-5 p.m. for outboundtraffic only.• Closed weekends, Dec. 24-25 and Jan. 1.

WWebster Febster Fieldield• Only the main gate will be open through theholiday period. The back gate will be closed.

NRNRC SC Solomonsolomons• Open through the holiday period.

"Seven Tips from the Security Officer"for a safer, more expeditious commute:

1.1. Adjust your work schedule, as able, tocome in 30-45 minutes earlier or later than nor-mal. This will better distribute the volume of ve-hicles accessing the base.

2.2. Have your window down and ID ready topresent to the sentry. Those few seconds yousave by not having to locate your ID add up overthe course of the morning and will reduce trafficdelays for everyone at the gate.

3.3. Avoid multitasking—eating, last-minutemakeup, changing radio stations and especiallytalking on cell phones and texting—while pro-ceeding thorough the Entry Control Point.Those distractions combined with winter dark-ness and potentially inclement weather increasethe likelihood of not seeing the sentries postedon both sides of the roadway.

4.4. Please be courteous to the sentries. Theyare doing the best they can to process as manypeople through the Entry Control Points as pos-sible while still verifying base access authoriza-tion to ensure the safety and security of the in-stallation and our mission.

5.5. Plan for the worst and hope for the best byleaving your residence 30 to 45 minutes early. Ifyou get through the gate quickly you can enjoya cup of coffee or breakfast on the shore line andset the tone for a great Pax River day.

6.6. Do not block the intersections at Route 235and installation's gates in attempt to "beat thestoplight." Cross the intersection only when youhave sufficient room for your entire vehicle tobe completely clear of the intersection. Blockingthe intersection is dangerous and only com-pounds backups on an already congested road-way. Local law enforcement has issued citationsfor this in the past. Don't block the box.

7.7. Turn off headlights while proceedingthrough gate if possible. Headlights can blindsentries to oncoming traffic. Also turn off yourcar stereo while entering the base as music mayprevent you from hearing verbal directions fromthe sentry.

NAS Pax holidaygate manning

On base:New NAVSUP Pax Det. petty officers

The following Sailors from NAVSUP Fleet Logistic CenterDetachment Patuxent River Supply were among those selectedfor promotion with the release of the fall Petty Officer Advance-ment list Nov. 20, but not published in the Tester: LogisticsSpecialist 3rd Class Melanie Soto, LS2 Jonathan Skorcz and LS1Roscoe Purter.

NAS Pax River Chapel Holiday ServicesRRoman Coman Catholicatholic: Daily Mass is Monday-Thursday at 11:35

a.m.; Feast, Immaculate Conception, Mass is Friday at 5 p.m.and Saturday at 9 a.m.; Christmas Mass is Dec. 24 at 6 p.m. and8 p.m. and again Dec. 25 at 9 a.m.

PrProtestantotestant: ChristmasWorship Service is Dec. 23 at 11 a.m.For information on JJewishewish holiday events, call the Beth Is-

rael Synagogue at 301-862-2021.

Pax River blood driveToday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.Rear Adm. William A. Moffett Building AtriumAppointments can be made online at

www.MilitaryDonor.com sponsor code: NSPR. Walk-ins arealso welcome. For more information, contact Hospital Corps-man 2nd Class Arlequin at 301-342-2752.

Military Child of the Year nominationsRegister by SaturdayOperation Homefront is accepting nominations for Military

Child of the Year. This award recognizes military children whodemonstrate resilience, leadership and achievement. One childfromeachbranchofserviceisselectedfortheawardandreceives

$5,000andalaptop.Nominationsmaybemadebyparents, fam-ily members, teachers, counselors, coaches, community andchurch leaders, neighbors and others. For more information orto nominate a child, visit http://MilitaryChildoftheYear.org.

No Tester issue Dec. 27 or Jan. 3Due to the holidays, the Tester is not published Dec. 27 or

Jan. 3.

NEX holiday hoursThe Navy Exchange is open Dec. 24 from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

and is closed Dec. 25.

Sittercity Military ProgramSittercity memberships, funded by the Department of De-

fense, offers active-duty and Reserve Navy families help in se-curing care during the holidays. Families have access to morethan 2 million in-home caregivers across the nation includingbabysitters, senior caregivers, pet sitters, housekeepers and tu-tors. In some instances, these caregivers are other military fam-ilies. Military families can activate their membership atwww.SitterCity.com/dod.

Where's Gnorman?Somewhere in this issue we've hidden Gnorman the

gnome. Be the first to call in his location and receive two freeCenter Stage Theater movie tickets; good for any Center Stagemovie. Contest calls are not taken after 4:30 p.m. Friday. Thesame person cannot win more than once a month. Congratu-lations to the last "Where's Gnorman?" winner, Ann Dickens.Call the Tester staff at 301-342-4163.

See News Briefs, Page 5

Tester4 Thursday, December 13, 20124 Thursday, December 13, 20124 Thursday, December 13, 2012

By Julie LemmonF/A-18 and E/A-18G ProgramOffice Communications Support

The footsteps of retired MasterChief Petty Officer Bill Taylor and hisson Petty Officer 2nd Class AndrewTaylor have crossed more than onceaboard USS Enterprise (CVN 65).

Bill Taylor, the F/A-18 and E/A-18G Program Office (PMA-265)principal deputy program managerat NAS Patuxent River, and his sonhave two deployments each on theEnterprise under their belts, but forthe first time, on a two-day cruisethat embarked Nov. 2 their stepswere aligned.

With Enterprise's decommission-ing Dec. 1 in Norfolk, Va., the finalvoyage aboard "the Big E" proved his-toric for the world's first nuclear-pow-ered aircraft carrier and the Naval AirSystems Command's employee andhis family.

The"Tiger Cruise" was an oppor-tunity for family and friends to boardthe ship for its final days of deploy-ment and to get a glimpse of Navy lifeat sea. Andrew Taylor invited his fa-ther aboard to experience a nostalgicview of the Enterprise.

"The ship was certainly familiar,"Bill Taylor said. "The ship's store wasin the same place, and I think thesame coffee mugs are sitting on theshelves. Of course, getting up anddown the ladders was a bit more chal-lenging this time, but I managed thetwo days with no bruises on my shinsor bumps on my head."

Bill Taylor retired in 1988 aftermore than 22 years of service and fivedeployments. In the early 1970s, twoof his deployments were aboard En-terprise, which has participated inevery major conflict since the CubanMissile crisis in 1962.

Before departing for the voyage,guests were treated to an airshowshowcasing the capabilities of all air-craft on the ship. F/A-18s performedlow-level fly-bys at top speeds, andthe E-2C Hawkeye executed a low-level bank parallel to the flight deck.H-60 helicopters demonstrated inter-diction and search-and-rescue mis-sions.

"Every 'last' was noted," Bill Taylor

said. "The last catapult shot. The lastarrested landing—it won't happenagain on the Enterprise. It was kind ofsad in a way, yet gratifying, too."

While the homecoming of a battlegroup is always a joyous occasion, thisone had a different element becauseit was the "Big E's" final.

By Saturday afternoon, the ship'saircraft flew their farewell flights offthe carrier leaving the decks andhangars vacant.

In a day full of lasts for Enterprisecrew, there was a first for the Taylorfamily.

Bill Taylor was summoned to theF/A-18 squadron VFA-136Nighthawk's ready room to attend theSurfaceWarfare Specialist pinning cer-emony for his son, an aviation electri-cian. Andrew Taylor's commandingofficer had arranged for Bill Taylor to

place the pin on his son's uniform, asurprise to both father and son.

When asked if his son seeks hisprofessional advice, the older Taylorsmiled and said, "He looks more foraffirmation. He has a plan, a goodplan. Many times, he has already de-cided what to do, but wants reassur-ance that his decision is the rightone."

As for Andrew Taylor, he said hewants to follow his father's path.

"I hope I can do as well as my daddid; maybe one day I can put on an an-chor," the younger Taylor said referringto the insignia enlisted Sailors earnupon being promoted to chief petty of-ficer. "I have much admiration forboth his Navy career and his careerwith the [Naval Air Systems Com-mand]."

PMA-265 father takes twilight cruiseaboard USS Enterprise with Sailor son

Courtesy photo

Bill Taylor, F/A-18 and E/A-18G Program Office (PMA-265) princi-pal deputy program manager at NAS Patuxent River, right, con-gratulates his son, Petty Officer 2nd Class Andrew Taylor, duringa pinning ceremony in Strike Fighter Squadron 136 (VFA-136), theKnights, ready room aboard USS Enterprise (CVN 65)'s final de-ployment.

AllclassesareheldattheFleetandFamilySupportCenterbuilding2090 on Bundy Road, unless otherwise noted.To register for a classortovolunteerwithFFSC,call301-342-4911.

More information on FFSC classes are available at www.Face-book.com/NASPaxRiver.

HHoursofOoursofOperperation:ation:MondaytoThursday,7:30a.m.to4:30p.m.Friday,7:30a.m.to4p.m.

Amazing NAmazing Newborewbornsns -Today, 6-8 p.m.

SAPRAdvSAPRAdvocateTrocateTrainingaining-MondaythroughDec.20,8a.m.to4p.m.

CConsumer Aonsumer Awarwarenesseness -Wednesday, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

SAPR RSAPR RefrefresherTresherTrainingaining -Wednesday, 1-3 p.m.

PPlaygrlaygroup at Goup at Glen Flen Forrorrestest -Thursdays, 10-11 a.m.

PPersonal Cersonal Communicationommunication - Jan. 8, 2-5 p.m.

OOmbudsman Bmbudsman BasicTrasicTrainingaining - Jan. 9-11, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

WWelcome to Pelcome to Paxax - Jan. 9, 1-3 p.m.

Commentary by the Fleet and Family Support Center

The holiday season brings joy and happiness to millionsof Americans each year. However, with that joy often comesthe stress and pressure of meeting the obligations and expec-tations of family, friends and work, which can take the joy outof the happiest time of the year.

"Holidays are a time of festivities, decorating, entertaining,shopping and family gatherings, and for those who celebrate,it can be a time of joy, excitement and fulfillment," said LindaSchmid, Fleet and Family Support Center Education Servicefacilitator. "With all of this, it can also be stressful."

Schmid said to avoid this stress, it may be helpful to take astep back and ask: "What does the holiday season mean to me?What does my family enjoy doing most during the holidays?"

"Try to make what your family enjoys doing a priority,"she said. Before you accept holiday stress as the norm, hereare nine stress-causing pitfalls—and their solutions—to helpyour holiday season be a relaxing one.

Don’t overextend yourselfHHoliday pitfall:oliday pitfall: The demands of the holiday season are dif-

ferent from other times of the year. For example, you may berequired to attend family and work holiday parties that in-volve late nights and a feeling that you have to network untilthe wee hours of the morning.

StrStress-less solution:ess-less solution: Plan ahead. Get a sense of how manyfunctions you have to attend and try to prioritize those thatare the most important.It really is the thought that counts

HHoliday pitfall:oliday pitfall: The pressure to purchase "the perfect gift"for others turns into a big stress point.

Avoiding seasonal pitfalls

See Pitfalls, Page 13

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Capt. Ted MillsCommanding Officer

Capt. Ben ShevchukExecutive Officer

Cmd. Master ChiefWilliam Lloyd-Owen

Command Master Chief

Connie HempelPublic Affairs Specialist

Donna CipolloniStaff Writer

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Deirdre ParryCopy/layout editors

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Tester 5Thursday, December 13, 2012 5Thursday, December 13, 2012 5Thursday, December 13, 2012

when many of us take time to express our gratitude. We'repleased that the Navy Exchange continues to show its com-mitted partnership in support of our Sailors at Pax," said Capt.Ben Shevchuk, NAS Patuxent River executive officer. "As wespend time with family and friends and enjoy a spirit of giving,we can take more satisfaction in some extra savings availableon Customer Appreciation Day."

Customer appreciation day is 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday withgiveaways, food and refreshments. Some of the highlighted

giveaway items include electronics, jewelry and fragrances."Whether you're naughty or nice, kids and families are invit-

ed to get their family holiday pictures with Santa too," Reihl said.Santa is scheduled to arrive at 3 p.m. on a Pax River fire en-

gine. He and his team are handing out goody bags to kids whovisit and share their Christmas wish list until 6 p.m., or untilsupplies run out.

Pax River Navy Exchange holiday hours are: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.through Sunday; 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Dec. 23; 7a.m. to 6 p.m., Dec 24; closed Dec. 25; normal operating re-sume Dec. 26.

For more information, visit www.MyNavyExchange.com.Connie Hempel, NAS Patuxent River Public Affairs, con-

tributed to this article.

NEXContinued from 1

Free classified advertisementsHaving a yard sale? Have something sitting at Auto Rama?

Trying to get your house rented or sell it? Did you know militaryservice members can advertise in the Tester classifieds for free?For more information or to have your announcement adver-tised, call Comprint Inc., at 301-670-2503. Tell them you wantit in the Tester.

Off base:STEM Expo

Jan. 29, from 5-7 p.m.Dr. James A. Forrest Career andTechnology Center, LeonardtownThe STEM—Science, Technology, Engineering and

Mathematics—Expo is an opportunity for parents, students,

community members and anyone else interested in St.Mary's County Public Schools' STEM Academy to ask ques-tion and talk with current STEM students and teachers. Stu-dent work samples and exhibits are on display during theExpo. For more information on the STEM Academy, visitwww.SMCPS.org/STEM, or contact Tracey Heibel at 301-475-5511 ext. 135.

Help pick the nextDefenders of Freedom performer

Take a moment to help pick the next Defenders of Freedomperformer by completing the survey at: http://e2.ma/mes-sage/630fc/mgdyhf.

Volunteer opportunities:U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots

Sunday, Dec. 22 and Dec. 29, 8 a.m. until doneFoodlion in Prince FrederickVolunteers needed to monitor the primary distribution at

the storefront. Contact Petty Officer 1st Class Jerry Kepich at301-379-1557.

NEWS BRIEFSContinued from 3

The Liberty Program sponsors free or reduced-priceevents for Pax River active-duty E1-E6. Liberty is a com-ponent of the Single Sailor Program. Civilian guests arenot allowed to participate unless otherwise stated. Formore information, call 301-342-4208 or visit www.Face-book.com/NASPaxRiver.

Dec. 24 - LiberLiberty Chrty Christmas Evistmas Eve pare partyty

Dec. 25 - ChrChristmas Distmas Day at the Liberay at the Liberty Cty Centerenter

Dec. 31 - LiberLiberty Upty Up All NAll Nightight

Jan. 6 - BCS Championship football gameBCS Championship football game

Jan. 12 - NNational Aational Aquarquarium trium tripip

Jan. 14 - BBoowling with Liberwling with Libertyty

Jan. 19 - SSnonowboarwboard/Sd/Ski trki tripip

See a what's going on at NAS Pax River and NRC Solomonsat www.Facebook.com/NASPaxRiver.

Winter Wonderland DanceFriday, 6:30-9:30 p.m.Landing Zone RestaurantCome out with the family for dinner set to holiday

performances from piano students. There is also dancingand a visit from Santa. Cost is $5. Free for children ages 2and younger and adults ages 65 and older. To register, call301-342-1694.

Moms on the Move! (Dads welcome too)Tuesdays and Fridays, 9:30-10:30 a.m.Drill HallA fitness class for stay-at-home-parents beginning Jan. 4.

This free 60-minute class includes cardio training, strengthwork and flexibility through circuit training, boot camp work-outs and more. Kids are welcome, but parents are responsiblefor them at all times.

Sunday Brunches at River's EdgeSelect Sundays in 2013, 10 a.m. and noonBrunches are offered in two seatings and are limited. Jan.

6 is the New Year's Brunch with grilled barbecue chicken,glazed ham, scrambled eggs, omelets, potatoes, bacon,sausage, waffles, salads, vegetables and assorted pastries anddesserts. Cost is $19.95, adults; $10.95, children ages 6-11. Toregister, call 301-342-3656.

Winter Intramural Sports organizational meetingsJan. 7-9, 1 p.m.Drill HallIntramural Sports are open to active-duty, Reserve and re-

tired Military, their family members and guests enrolled in theNAS Pax River Fitness and Sports Program. Winter sports or-ganizational meetings are: Jan. 7, basketball; Jan. 8, volleyballand Jan. 9, racquetball. For membership information, visitDrill Hall or call 301-757-1194.

Free Energy Zone Open HouseJan. 12, 8-11 a.m.The Energy Zone is holding an Open House to showcase

several different classes offered with 30-minute demonstra-tions. Participate in one or all of the demonstration classeswhich include: Zumba, body pump, spinning,WillPower andGrace, and more.There are light refreshments and prizes. Formore information, call 301-995-3869.

Sailor of the year awards

Master-at-Arms 2nd

Class AdamNorman was

selected atthe Naval Air

Station's2012 Sailor

of theQuarter.

U.S. Navy photo by Donna Cipolloni

Kirk wins NTWL(Right) Naval Test Wing Atlantic Command Mas-ter Chief (AW/NAC) Tim McKinley, left, and AirTest and Evaluation Squadron (HX) 21 CommandMaster Chief (AW/NAC) Richard Haninger, right,stand with the 2012 NTWL Sailor of the Year, Avia-tion Electrician's Mate 1st Class (AW) Ryan Kirk.Kirk has made it through two of many steps to be-coming the Navy Sailor of the Year.

U.S. Navy photo by Information Systems Technician 1st Class (SW)Josh van der Smissen

U.S. Navy photo

Air Traffic Controller 1st Class Patrick Khoryatiwas selected at the Naval Air Station's 2012 Sen-ior Sailor of the Quarter.

Penny wins NAS and NDW(Right) Air Traffic Controller Bryan Penny was se-lected as the Naval Air Station's and Naval Dis-trict Washington's 2012 Blue Jacket of the Year,two steps closer to becoming the Navy's BlueJacket of the Year.

Norman, Khoryati win NAS

U.S. Navy photo by Donna Cipolloni

Tester6 Thursday, December 13, 20126 Thursday, December 13, 20126 Thursday, December 13, 2012

Thursday, Dec. 136:30 p.m.,

Paranormal Activity 4Strange things have be-

gun happening ever sincethe new neighbors moved innext door. Rated: R (1 hr, 28min)

Friday, Dec. 146:30 p.m., Cloud AtlasThe film explores how the

actions and consequences ofindividual lives impact oneanother throughout the past,the present and the future.Action, mystery and ro-mance weave dramaticallythrough the story as one soulis shaped from a killer into ahero and a single act of kind-ness ripples across centuriesto inspire a revolution in thedistant future. Each memberof the ensemble appears inmultiple roles as the storiesmove through time. Rated: R(2 hr, 52 min)

10 p.m.,Silent Hill Revelation (3D)

Heather Mason and herfather have been on the run,always one step ahead of dan-gerous forces that she doesn'tfully understand. Now on theeve of her 18th birthday,plagued by horrific night-mares and the disappearance

of her father, Heather discov-ers she's not who she thinksshe is.The revelation leads herdeeper into a demonic worldthat threatens to trap her for-ever. Rated: R (1 hr, 35 min)

Saturday, Dec. 154 p.m., Fun Size

Wren, a sarcastic high

school senior, is eager to dis-tance herself from her dys-functional family by going offto college. Before that canhappen, Wren's mother, Joy,insists that she watch her littlebrother Albert on Halloweennight so Joy can go to a ragerwith her much youngerboyfriend. When Wren gets

distracted by an invitation tothe party of the year, Albertdisappears into a sea of trick-or-treaters.Wren and three ofher friends embark on a high-stakes, all-night adventure tofind Albert, crossing pathswith outrageous charactersevery step of the way. RatedPG-13 (1 hr, 30 min)

6:30 p.m.,Silent Hill Revelation (3D)

9 p.m., Cloud Atlas

Free Sneak PreviewSunday, Dec. 16

2 p.m., Jack ReacherFive are shot dead by a

sniper. Police quickly identifyandarresttheculprit,andbuildacase.Theaccusedmanclaimshe's innocent and says "GetJackReacher."Reacherseesthenewsreportandturnsupinthecity.Thedefenseisrelieved,butReacher has come to bury theguy.Reachersetsouttoconfirmfor himself the certainty of theman's guilt, but comes up withmore than he bargained for.Rated: PG-13 (2 hr, 10 min)

Monday and TuesdayNo Movies

Wednesday, Dec. 196:30 p.m., Fun Size

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Tester 7Thursday, December 13, 2012 7Thursday, December 13, 2012 7Thursday, December 13, 2012

"I don't have a military background and that's biggest chal-lenge for me right now," she said. "But being able to shadowPhyllis on the job is helping me with that."

She said even though that's a big obstacle to overcome,she's excited to work with military families.

"The family interaction that I get is the best," Waldronsaid. "Every day I go in and I'm able to play with the kids andinteract with the families as they come through.

"If you're having a bad day here, it's because you chooseto have a bad day," she said. "These kids make coming towork fun."

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Tester8 Thursday, December 13, 2012 TesterThursday, December 13, 2012 9

By Jamie Cosgrove and Emily BurdeshawProgram Executive OfficeUnmanned Aviation and Strike Weapons Public Affairs

TheNavy'sfourthFireScoutdetachmentreturnedtoMayport,Fla.,onDec.1afterachievingseveralmilestonesduringitsfive-monthdeploy-ment aboard USS Klakring (FFG 42).

TheFireScoutunmannedhelicopterdetachmentloggedmorethan500flight hours in the U.S. Africa Command Area of Responsibility supportinganti-piracyoperationsandprovidingreal-timeintelligence,surveillanceandreconnaissance support to combatant commanders.

"Intoday'senvironmentofeverincreasingdemandsforISRsupport,wehaveproventhatashipwithamulti-vehicleFireScoutdetachmentcanpro-vide the same support to the operational commander as that which wouldotherwise require multiple land-based ISR assets," said Cmdr. DarrellCanady, USS Klakring commanding officer. "Our team perfected the art ofmanagingmaintenancerequirementsandcrewrestinprovingthat12hour-a-day operations could be sustained almost indefinitely."

With a record number of unmanned helicopters aboard Klakring, FireScoutregularlymaintained12-hourdaysonstation,regularlyswitchingair-craft to provide continuous and thorough support. The system accom-plishedanewsingle-dayendurancerecord,providingcontinuousISRsup-

port for an entire 24-hour period. For the first time ever, Helicopter Anti-submarineSquadronLight(HSL)42conducteddualair-vehicleoperations,allowing the ship's commander to keep a constant watch on targets of in-terest.

"The real achievement on this deployment was a surge we executed toprovide just over 24 continuous hours of ISR coverage in late September,"said Lt. Cmdr. Jay Lambert, HSL-42 detachment officer-in-charge. "Com-pleting this milestone required ten separate flights, refueling aircraft eighttimes, and having the ship setting flight quarters for launch or recoverytwenty times. It took everyone on the air detachment and ship working to-gether to make it happen and we are extremely proud of what we accom-plished."

Since 2006, the Northrop Grumman-built Fire Scout system has flownmore than 5,000 flight hours—with more than half of the flight hours per-forming real-world operational tasking during ship-based and land-baseddeployments within the past 18 months.

"The Fire Scout team of USS Klakring and HSL-42 Det Two successfullydemonstrated the potential of Fire Scout with their consistent performanceinprovidingvitalinformationtocombatantcommanders,"saidCapt.PatrickSmith,FireScoutprogrammanageratNASPatuxentRiver."Thereisatremen-dous amount of interest shown for maritime-based ISR and Fire Scout con-tinues to demonstrate its capabilities and potential in the operational envi-ronment. Congratulations to USS Klakring and HSL-42 on a job well done!"

Fire Scout breaks endurance recordswhile deployed on USS Klakring

Small UAS:Raven, Wasp, T-Hawk and Puma

Small UAVs, including RQ-11B Raven,Wasp III, RQ-20A Puma and RQ-16B T-Hawk,provide the battlefield commander an or-ganic capability to perform over-the-horizonreconnaissance, surveillance and target ac-quisition. This reduces operational risks andenhances the unit's decision process.

These assets weigh less than 20 pounds,typically fly at altitudes below 1,200 feet andfly between 45 minutes to approximately twohours.

• Raven-B, a small, reusable, back-pack-able UAS used for "over-the-hill" reconnaissance, is hand-launchedand flies either under manual operator control or via a prepro-grammed route and uses onboard sensors and communicationsequipment to gather and transmit imagery. It provides real-time im-ages of the tactical environment to the company/detachment levelout to a range of approximately 10 km or line of sight.

• Weighing only 3 pounds, Wasp III provides a small unit with stillimages and covers remote reconnaissance and surveillance, force pro-tection, convey security, target acquisition and battle damage assess-ment.

• The Marines' newest small UAV, Puma, can take off and land inwater and is capable of operating in nearly any condition. It providesISR support to small tactical units over a broad area. The Puma hasa longer range and more speed than the Raven or Wasp.

• The T-Hawk provides a detection capability on a hover-capableUAS to integrate into Explosive Ordnance DisposalTactics andTrainingProcedures for Counter Improvised Explosive Device response. It isused by Joint Force EOD units in Iraq and Afghanistan, among otherlocations.

K-MAXThe K-MAX is the Ma-

rine Corps' first un-manned helicopter de-signed for resupplyingtroops in remote locations.Lockheed Martin's K-MAXK-2000 commercial,heavy-lift helicopter con-verted to a UAS was firstdeployed with a Marinedetachment in December2011.

The Cargo UAS capa-bility supplements rotary-wing assets and reducesMarine Corps exposure toImprovised Explosive De-vices in theater. Two de-ployed K-MAX unmannedhelicopters are expected to deliver a total of 6,000 pounds of cargo perday, keeping trucks off the road and ultimately saving lives.

Three Unmanned AerialVehicle Squadrons have flown nearly 1,000hours and moved 2.4 million pounds of cargo since K-MAX's initial de-ployment.

ISR ServicesThe ISR services effort is in direct support of worldwide combat

missions, including round-the-clock imagery and other sensor capa-bility in support of ISR missions. It is intended to fill capability gaps in-theater and around the world as quickly as possible.

The Navy is providing the contract vehicle to ensure the warfighterhas the capabilities needed in-theater. Under the original contract, In-situ's Scan Eagle UAV has flown nearly 250,000 flight hours in Iraq and

Afghanistan.Scan Eagle completed its

first flight from an amphibi-ous transport dock class shipUSS San Antonio (LPD-17)on Nov. 28.

In February 2012, theNavy awarded multiple con-tracts for sea and land-basedISR support. AAI Corp.'sAerosonde UAS took its first flight under the new contract Dec. 2 inAfghanistan.

Broad Area Maritime Surveillance-Demonstrator (BAMS-D)

With a wingspan of 116 feet, a gross weight of 26,000 pounds, and anoperating altitude of 60,000 feet,BAMS-D represents the most ad-vanced unmanned maritime sur-veillance aircraft currently in opera-tion.

The Navy owns four BAMS-Daircraft, which are operated by ateam of NAVAIR civilian, active-duty military and defense con-tractor personnel. The team operates in a unique environmen—unlikemost operational aircraft, the BAMS-D aircraft is operated overseas re-motely by the operational team at Pax River, under the direction ofCommander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing 2, based in KaneoheBay, Hawaii.

Since early 2009, BAMS-D has provided more than 50 percent ofmaritime intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance in theater andhas flown more than 7,570 hours in support of combat operations inthe U.S. Central Command Area of Responsibility.

The Navy is using the Northrop Grumman-built X-47B Unmanned CombatAir System demonstrator to mature technologies for a carrier-suitable, low-ob-servable, relevant UAS, while reducing risk for UAS carrier integration and de-veloping the critical data necessary to support potential follow-on acquisitionprograms.

The X-47B is a tailless, unmanned, autonomous aircraft with a low-observ-ablerelevantplan-form.Theaircraftisstrike-fightersizedwithamaximumtake-offgrossweightof44,000poundsandawingspanof62.1feet Theprogram'sul-timate purpose is to demonstrate integration into an aircraft-carrier environ-ment and autonomous-aerial refueling.

The X-47B UCAS completed a yearlong test program at Edwards Air ForceBase,Calif.,beforetransitioningtoPatuxentRiver inearly2012. Progressingtoacarrier demonstration, testing at Pax River will validate the X-47B UCAS' abilitytoconductprecisionapproachestothecarrier,andtoperformarrestedlandingsand catapult launches at the land-based test facility.

Last month, the X-47B successfully completed its first land-based catapultlaunch from the naval air station's unique steam catapult site. A second air ve-hiclewastransportedtoUSSHarryS.Truman(CVN75)forinitialdeckhandlingtests aboard a carrier.

U.S. Navy photo

RQ-21A STUASThe Small Tactical Un-

manned Aircraft Systemwill provide constant mar-itime and land-based tacti-cal Reconnaissance, Sur-veillance and Target Acqui-sition data collection anddissemination capabilitiesto the warfighter.

At a little more than 7 feetin length, the 135-pound RQ-21A STUAS will fly at 15,000 feet with an operatingradius of 50 nautical miles.

The STUAS program is on track for initial operational capability in fiscal 2013.

An upgrade to the MQ-8B Fire Scout, the MQ-8C will improve the earlier vari-ant's performance by replacing the existing air frame with one that will increaseendurance, range and payload capabilities.

The MQ-8C Fire Scout is an autonomous, four-blade, single-engine un-manned helicopter. Like the MQ-8B, it will carry reconnaissance, surveillanceand target acquisition sensors to support warfighters' demands for increased sit-uational awareness.

Initial operating capability for the MQ-8C is planned for 2016, with a potentialfor early deployment in 2013. Five to six aircraft will be delivered beginning in2013 for a total of 28 aircraft by 2016.

Courtesy photo by Northrop Grumman

Fire Scout statsOverall LengthOverall Length: 31.7 feetHeightHeight: 9.8 feetWWeighteight: 3,150 poundsSpeedSpeed: More than 125 knotsCeilingCeiling: 20,000 feetEnduranceEndurance: More than eight hours1st deployment:1st deployment: 2008 aboard USS McInerney (FFG 8)Current deployment:Current deployment: U.S. Central Command since 2011

MQ-4C TritonFormerly known as the

BAMS UAS, the MQ-4C Tritonis the Navy's largest invest-mentinunmannedaviationtodate. The Triton will be an ad-junct to the P-8A Poseidon aspartoftheNavy'sMaritimePa-trolandReconnaissanceForce(MPRF) family of systems.

The MQ-4C is based on theRQ-4B,theBlock20,30and40versionsoftheAirForce'sGlobalHawk,whichhasa130.9-footwingspanandasimilaroutermoldline.TheTriton'snewfeaturesincludetheAN/ZPY-3multi-functionactive-sensorradarsystem,theprimarysensorontheTriton.

With the MFAS radar's capabilities, the Triton will be able to cover more than 2.7millionsquaremilesinasinglemission.MQ-4C'scapabilitytoperformpersistentin-telligence, surveillance and reconnaissance with a range of 2,000 nautical miles willallow P-8A, P-3C and EP-3E aircraft to focus on their core missions, adding to the ca-pability of the Navy's MPRF.

Triton's first flight is planned for early 2013 at Northrop Grumman's facility inPalmdale, Calif. Initial operating capability is scheduled for 2016.

I am extremely proud of

the men and women of

PEO(U&W) who are

committed to providing

our naval and joint

warfighters with persist-

ent, cost-effective ISR

capabilites that ensure

mission success."

Rear ARear Adm. Mat Wintdm. Mat WintererProgram Executive Officer Unmanned Aviation and Strike Weapons

UCLASS (not pictured)The Navy has identified a need for a carrier-based UAS providing persistent

ISR and precision-strike capabilities. UCLASS will be a carrier-based unmannedair system optimized for irregular and hybrid warfare scenarios, capable of inte-grating with manned platforms as part of the Carrier AirWing. Initial deploymentis planned for the 2018-2020 timeframe.

Future UAS:

U.S. Navy photo

Scan Eagle

U.S. Navy photo

T-Hawk

Courtesy photo by Lockheed Martin

Current UAS deployments: Demonstrations:

Courtesy photo by Insitu

Courtesy photo by Northrup Grumman

Photo Courtesy of Northrop Grumman

Beyond the 'Wright' stuff

X-47B UCAS

MQ-8C Fire Scout

Pax River's development of Navy UnmannedAir Systems advances work of aviation pioneers

Courtesy photo by Northrop Grumman

From providing Intelligence, Reconnaissance and Surveillance support off the coast ofAfrica to carrying cargo to Marines in Afghanistan, the Program Executive Office for

Unmanned Aviation and Strike Weapons at Pax River oversees the development and testof Unmanned Air Systems for real-world operations.

Tester10 Thursday, December 13, 2012

A 40-seat classroom in the station's environmental ed-ucation center hosts school groups, scout troops, localconservation groups and community members on a reg-ular basis, including mandated hunter safety instructionfor up to 200 students yearly. It is one of only two locationsin the county offering the state-certified course.

A few outreach projects, among many, have includedwaterfront clean-ups; Arbor Day tree planting; manningbooths at various community events that display artifactsrecovered from archaeological sites and showcase live rep-tiles and amphibians; hosting bird watching field trips;conducting bird counts; mentoring high school studentswith their research projects; controlling invasive plantspecies; visits to local classrooms; evening training in

wildlife and outdoor safety hazards to volunteer fire andrescue squads; and support of the county education de-partment's Science, Technology, Engineering and Math-ematics Academy.

Environmental staff also serves on advisory boards andcommissions alongside representatives from state and lo-cal governments and private citizens.

"We've been entrusted with the care of public trust re-sourcesthatcover15,000acresinfiveMarylandcountiesandwe believe in letting people see what we're doing," said KyleRambo, conservation director. "We meet people, we informthem, we encourage them to ask questions, we participatein our community. Despite our high-tech mission here atPax, we want to show people that we're doing our job."

And it's a job well done, Rambo said, as every opera-tion on base strives for 100 percent compliance with local,state and federal environmental laws.

"This land belongs to every citizen," Rambo said. "It'sour job to make sure it's still here in the future."

AWARDContinued from 1

U.S. Navy photo by Donna Cipolloni

Naval Facilities Engineering Command Environmental Division staff at NAS Patuxent Rivergathers beneath some of the awards they've received over the years for their stewardship ofPax River's natural and cultural resources. They were recently awarded the Regional NavyCommunity Service Program of the Year Award for Environmental Stewardship, an honorthey've earned for the last 16 years.

As of Dec. 7Intramural Bowling League

WSI 31-9Bid Ten 26-14Goat Locker 23-17Hang 'em High 21-19Rollin' Thunder 20-20Wafwots 20-20JMWS 18-22Spare Time 18-22High-n-Low 12-28Lucky Strikes 11-29

Intramural Fall Volleyball LeagueServin' It Up 20-4Set To Kill 24-6D or No D 17-4Brew Crew 17-7Set For Life 14-13A/O 12-12Shaw Road 10-14Ginning 10-17Grateful Digs 9-18Notorious D.I.G. 4-20Set Blast Deflectors 1-23

Intramural GraybeardBasketball League

Lunch Crew 3-0The Crew 3-0W.W.D. 1-1Loggies 1-1VX-23 1-1Phenoms 1-1Paxsca 1-2HX-21 1-2VX-1 0-2Old but New 0-2

Scoreboard

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Tester 11Thursday, December 13, 2012 11Thursday, December 13, 2012 11Thursday, December 13, 2012

By Mindy AshtonNaval Health ClinicPatuxent River Wellness Clinic

The holiday season can be one of thedeadliest and most dangerous times ofthe year due to an increase in impaireddriving.

That's why Naval Health ClinicPatuxent River is partnering with na-tional, state and local highway safety of-ficials to remind everyone celebratingduring the holidays that: Buzzed Driv-ing is Drunk Driving; never forget toplan a safe way home before the festiv-ities begin.

"The consumption of alcohol, drugsand driving just don't mix," said Capt.Michael Vernere, NHC Patuxent Rivercommanding officer. "Whether you'vehad way too many or just one too many,it's not worth the risk of killing yourselfor someone else. Don't ever get behinda wheel of a vehicle when you are im-paired."

Following these steps helps drivershave a safe and festive holiday withoutjeopardizing their life or the lives of theothers:

• Have a plan for a safe way home be-fore the festivities begin.

• Before drinking, designate a soberdriver and give that person the car keys.

• If impaired, use a taxi, call a soberfriend or family member, or use publictransportation to get home safely.

• Use St. Mary's County Tipsy Taxi. It

runs 24/7, 365 days a year and it doesn'tcost anyone a dime. The bartender fillsout the Tipsy Taxi card, calls the cabcompany, then the cab takes the personhome; no cost passed on to anyone.

• Sailors can call the naval air stationcommand duty office, 301-3412-1095/1096, and a duty driver will pickthem up.

• See a drunk driver on the road? Calllaw enforcement.

Remember, if someone is about todrive and is impaired, take their keys and

help them make other arrangements toget to where they are going safely.

"Saving lives on our roads is a top pri-ority and we need everyone's help to doit," Vernere said. "This holiday season,don't let your year end in an arrest--oreven worse, death. Make smart deci-sions. Plan ahead, so you can assure asafe way home."

Whether you've had way too many orjust one too many, it's not worth the risk.

For more information, visitwww.StopImpairedDriving.org.

Remember: Buzzed driving is drunk driving

Courtesy photo

Impaired driving makes the holiday season one of the deadliestand most dangerous times of the year. Before drinking, designatea sober driver and give that person the car keys.

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Tester12 Thursday, December 13, 201212 Thursday, December 13, 201212 Thursday, December 13, 2012

Around Town

St. Mary’s County events:

Holiday SurpriseToday, 6 p.m.Leonardtown and Lexington Park librariesHoliday stories, crafts and fun for children

ages 5 and under. Free.

Christmas Village and Lights DisplayThursdays and Sundays, 5-8 p.m.Fridays and Saturdays, 5-9 p.m.Flat Iron Farm, Great Mills

Santa and Mrs. Claus on the SquareSaturday, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.Leonardtown SquareKids, bring your wish list, and parents,

bring to bring a camera for photos. If in-clement weather, visits with Santa and Mrs.Claus moves indoors to theWinegardner AutoShowroom.

Grantseeking BasicsMonday, 2 p.mLexington Park LibraryAnoverviewofthefundingresearchprocess

forthoseseekinggrantsfromfoundations,cor-porations and grant-making public charities.Free. Register by calling 301-863-8188.

Free Family MovieTuesday, 2 p.m.Lexington Park LibraryWhen Santa loses his memory, it's up to

Paws, Quinn, and a group of magical talking

dogs to save Santa and show the world whatChristmas is all about. Snacks provided.

Lexington Park Library Art GalleryUntil Feb. 28.Candy Cummings has her artwork that

chronicles her very early years through thepresent on display. Other artists interested indisplaying artwork at the library gallery shouldcontact Candy Cummings at 301-863-6693.

Calvert County events:JobSource Mobile Career Center

Today, 3-7 .pm.Calvert library, Prince Frederick

Job counseling, résumé help and jobsearches with Southern Maryland JobSource.This 38-foot mobile center features 11 com-puter workstations, smart board instructionaltechnology, satellite internet access, exterioraudio visual and broadcasting capabilities;state of the art workforce applications andconnectivity for wireless mobile device ac-cess.

Library Volunteer OrientationToday, 7-8:30pm.Calvert library, Prince FrederickLearn about what opportunities are avail-

able and what commitments are expected as aCalvert Library volunteer. If you have not al-ready completed an application, bring a com-pleted one with you. Register by calling 410-535-0291 or 301-855-1862.

Yes, You Can Use a ComputerSaturday, 10-11 a.m.Calvert library, Prince FrederickBeginners can learn how to use Microsoft

Word to create, edit, save, and print docu-ments.The training will last one hour and willtake place in a small group. Register by calling410-535-0291 or 301-855-1862

Gingerbread Lighthouse WorkshopSunday, 11 a.m.,1 p.m. and 3 p.m.Calvert Marine MuseumEnjoy our most popular holiday event.

Cost is $4 per child. Register at the Museum’sdesk on the day of the workshop.

Solomons TubaChristmasSunday, 4 p.m.Our Lady Star of the Sea ChurchLocal musicians from Southern Maryland

are invited. All low brass players in the area arewelcome to play in the group.TubaChristmasfeatures traditional Christmas carols arrangedfor tuba and baritone horn players. For moreinformation, call BillWhite at 443-326-4608 or301-757-2769.

Résumé and Cover Letter workshopTuesday, 10 a.m.-12:00 p.m.Calvert library, Prince FrederickJoin job counselor Sandra Holler in a small

grouptolearnwhatmakesastrongrésuméandcoverletter.Ifyouhaveonestarted,bringitwithyousoeditingcanhappenonthespot.Registerby calling 410-535-0291 or 301-855-1862.

nothing new, really," he said, highlightingthree key points: affordability, contracts andservices.

"With the budget going down and thecost of weapons systems going up, how canwe do our mission more affordability," heasked. "Set affordability caps. Have a planthat meets a cost target and write it into theprogram's plan."

When it comes to contracts, Thomsensaid, "first, you have to get a good under-standing of the price; and second, you don'twant to sign up for a long-term contract."

According to Thomsen, last year half ofDOD's budget was spent on services.

"We spend a lot of time focusing oneverythingbutservices,"hesaid."Andwe'restill doing it."

Continuing DOD's better buying initia-tiveinthisarea,contractingforservicesnowfocuses on: Assigning senior managers foracquisitionofservices;standardizingservicearrangements and focusing on segmentswith the best potential to reduce costs; im-proving requirements definition; increasingmarket research; increasing participationwithsmallbusiness;moreproactivecontractmanagement outside the normal acquisi-tion chain, and using best practices in serv-ice contract management.

ThenextNAVAIR6.0LogisticsDayisslat-ed for June.

LOGISTICSContinued from 2

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Tester 13Thursday, December 13, 2012 13Thursday, December 13, 2012 13Thursday, December 13, 2012

SSttrress-less solution:ess-less solution: A gift is something yougive to someone you care about as a token ofyour feelings, not as an object that has a directmonetary connection to how much you careor don't care for them.Try to be thoughtful butnot obsessive.Follow a budget

HHoliday pitfall:oliday pitfall: Financial concerns oftenbecome more evident during this time of theyear as you try to balance travel, gifts and en-tertaining on top of what may be an alreadystretched budget.

StrStress-less solution:ess-less solution: Set a budget for holidayshopping and stay within it. It can be very invit-ing to buy that extra present or take that holidayyou've always wanted, but make sure you canafford it both in the short- and long-term.Avoid social networking loneliness

For some, the holidays can be a depressingtime," Schmid said. "Feelings of sadness andloneliness can intensify when contrasted withthe joy expected of the holidays, especially ifyou can't be with your loved ones over the hol-idays."

HHoliday pitfall:oliday pitfall: With social media it's easyto find out what parties and events are hap-pening—including ones you may not havebeen invited to. Feelings of loneliness or being"left out" can often lead to more stress duringthis holiday season.

StrStress-less solution:ess-less solution: Try not to focus toomuch on what you see. Facebook and othersocial networking sites can sometimes in-crease feelings of isolation or jealousy. If youfind yourself too focused on what you are see-ing, don't look at those sites until after the hol-idays and focus on the events you are attend-ing. See the installation's Facebook for eventsyou can attend: www.Facebook.com/NAS-PaxRiver.

"Trying something new can also minimizethis," Schmid said. "Take a mini vacation witha friend or volunteer to help others. Attend acommunity gathering or other holiday eventin your town. Start new traditions that createopportunities for reflection and relaxation."Drink responsibly

HHoliday pitfall:oliday pitfall: With the holiday cocktailparty comes the holiday cocktail—or three.Handling the fallout of one too many drinks ata party can be stressful and anxiety-provoking.

StrStress-less solution:ess-less solution: It's normal to feelnervous in a social situation, but drinking toomuch can lead to very negative conse-quences—professionally and personally. Set alimit on the number of drinks you will have or

decide not to drink at all.Don't rush when when traveling

HHoliday pitfall:oliday pitfall: Holiday travel—about asstressful as it can get.

StrStress-less solution:ess-less solution: Give yourself lots oftime to get where you need to go and bring ac-tivities for the little ones. Pacing the activities bythe hour often helps pass the time, and try toallow yourself some quiet time by listening tomusic or reading a book for just a few minutesto help recharge your battery during a flight.Abbreviate but don’t eliminate exercise

HHoliday pitfall:oliday pitfall: Exercise routines and typi-cal self-care activities, such as going to your fa-vorite yoga class or going for a long walk in theneighborhood, may be too difficult to fit intoyour busy holiday schedule.

StrStress-less solution:ess-less solution: Take time for yourselfwherever your travels take you. Even 20 min-utes a day can help you recharge and combatthose extra calories that you may be enjoyingduring the holiday season.Put your differences aside for the holiday

HHoliday pitfall:oliday pitfall: Navigating family "issues"often becomes a stressful experience, especial-ly if you must attend events that mean you willspend time with estranged family members.

StrStress-less solutioness-less solution: In those situations, fol-low this mantra: Keep it civil and simple. Tryto be respectful of others' boundaries and ifyou find yourself ready to get into a fight, it'stime to say goodnight.Practice communication skills

HHoliday pitfall:oliday pitfall: Long-simmering disagree-ments about holiday rituals, vacations and al-location of resources among couples and fam-ilies become more stressful during this period.

StrStress-less solution:ess-less solution: Now is a great time toopen up lines of communication with othersabout their ideas and wishes for the holidayseason. Try to be an active listener with themand ask them to be the same. Perhaps the bestgift of all is becoming closer to those aroundyou and learning how to lean on them.

Using these 10 tips to recognize and dealwith potential pitfalls can led to an more en-joyable holiday than you thought.

"If you are feeling lonely or sad during theholiday season, accept those feelings and ac-cept help to move you through this time,"Schmid said. "There are many places you cango to seek help including the FFSC."

The Fleet and the Family Support Centerprovides counseling services and classes foractive-duty military and their families whomay be having a difficult time dealing withholiday stress or any other life issues. To makean appointment and for more information,call 301-342-4911.

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H H H HTHE RÉSUMÉ EXPERT

n Federal/Civilian/Military Transition Résumés n

n Database Input n Résumé Writing Training n

n KSA’s n Job Search Assistance n

“Mobile Service”

NON-EMPLOYMENT RELATED SVCSH H H Hn Situation Specific Writing Projects n

Please call Phyllis Houston at 301-574-3956

Tester14 Thursday, December 13, 2012

HAY FOR SALE240-925-7585

Call 301-670-2503 to advertise!

ClassifiedsCall 301-670-2503

SILVER SPRING:Splt lvl 3 Bd, 2.5 Ba, 2-car grg. Near Metro 5.5mi to Ntnl Med Cntr.$2300/m. 202-390-9800

GREAT MILLS: Smalleffeciency, furn. Util Incl,N/p, N/s. No Sec 8. 3Miles to PAX. $575 +Dep. 301-904-2019

1995 Fleetwood Jambor-ee RV- Frederick, MD 25’MD Inspected. Sleeps six.Self-contained. 301-473-4630 $10,500.

Got Stuff to Sell?call: 301-670-2503

HOLLYWOOD: workingprofess looking to shr2ac wtrfrnt rambler ac-cess to pier/boat/ramp1br pvt ba $700 shr utils.240-256-0801

SEASONED HARD-WOOD FOR SALE

Call 240-925-7585

BETHESDA Previouslyused as a doctor’s homeoffice. Freshly paintedand hardwoods refin-ished. Perfect for a homeprofessional. MLSMC7925419. $850,000USD. Call Mario Finelli atLong & Foster, 301-907-7600.

Healthcare

Full time - Occupational TherapistPart time - Physical Therapist Assistant

PRN- All DisciplinesChesapeake Shores Nursing Home

in Lexington Park, MD

Contact Jenny Collins at (855) 299-9317jcollins@signaturehealthcarellc.com

LEXINGTON PARK-3Br2Ba Open Conceptin LR-Kit-DR.Private1.80 Ac. $299,999301-399-5918 to see

Pharmacy/Phlebotomy

Tech TraineesNeeded Now

Pharmacies/ hospi-tals now hiring.No experience?

Job Training& Placement

Assistance Available1-877-240-4524

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Dental/MedicalAssistantTrainees

Needed NowDental/Medical Offi-

ces now hiring.No experience?

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Assistance Available1-877-234-7706

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WALDORF: Brand new2Br, 2Ba. Quiet CountrySetting. Priv entr, deck,W/D, N/s, N/p. $1500/mCall: 301-932-8344

HUGESVILLE: NewlyRenov. 2Br/1Fba, kit/balcony Ns/Np $900/mo +Electric. Convenient to3 Counties. 301-752-6050 301-932-8344

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AD?Why Advertise? Because it works!

Call 301-670-2503TO PLACE YOUR AD!

MECHANICSVILLE: 4Br3Ba split foyer $1600credit check by renter &1st/last mo rent requ. gdSchls, Np 301-884-8069

WILDEWOOD- 2 bd, 1.5ba 1100 sq ft of upgrad-ed living space. Cut outKitchen w/bar seating for3-4. Anderson windows,washer/dryer, ceramictile $975/m Call 443-995-6951

Tester 15Thursday, December 13, 2012

• Logistics Services • Local & International• Project Management • Secure Storage

• Office & Facility Relocations• Receiving & On-time Delivery• Locally Owned & Operated• Serving So. Md since 1973

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Tester16 Thursday, December 13, 2012

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