Volume 2, February 2013
INSIDE THIS ISSUE 1–2 3 4 5–6 7-8
From the Captain’s Cabin; Chaplain’s Corner
"Do you want to know who you are? Don't ask. Act! Action will delineate and define you." - Thomas Jefferson
CMC Teri McIntyre NFAAS; Useful Information; Contact Information; USS Nimitz Mailing Address National Teen Dating Violence Prevention; TriWest Transition; “Get the Word Out”; VITA Deployment Resources for Children; Your Nimitz Ombudsman Team; MilSpouse eMentor
From the Captain’s Cabin A Message from the CO
Captain Jeffrey Ruth Commanding Officer, USS Nimitz
Greetings family and friends of USS Nimitz (CVN 68) — It’s easy to be wowed by the mechanical marvel that is the USS Nimitz; however, it’s the Sailors who are our most valuable assets. During February, across the Navy and on board USS Nimitz, we celebrate African American Heritage Month because it’s important to acknowledge and recognize how African Americans have served and contin
Captain Jeffrey Ruth Commanding Officer
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Chaplain’s Corner CDR Emile Moured
ue to serve in the Navy with valor and courage for our country.
Locking Arms
Today, African American Sailors comprise more than 17% of the Navy's active duty force, which is nearly 56,900 Sailors and officers who contribute to our Navy's efforts and represent the diversity that makes our Navy and nation strong.
We lead our families in a challenging culture filled with constant change, unique stressors and carefully managed chaos. Military spouses have to learn how to manage the economy of the home like single parents while still understanding how roles and teamwork come into play in their marriage, especially when the military member comes back home. It amazes me that young spouses enter into this lifestyle so bravely – if somewhat naively – with no real training and guidance to navigate the craziness and chaos. And, often, they do it without any personal “navigator” to show the way or existing friends with whom to lock arms in pressing forward together.
To say diversity is one of the Navy's greatest strengths is an understatement. And nowhere is this more true than on board Nimitz. Together we're all working hard to get the ship ready to deploy and conduct the nation's business. Maintenance continues aboard Nimitz and we are full steam ahead towards our upcoming deployment. However, there’s much more to our preparations than the ship and its mechanical functions, qualifications and administrative checklists. No deployment can be called successful unless every member of the crew is fully engaged and ready to go. This means your support and preparedness on the homefront is crucial to our success out at sea. For many of you at home—and many on board—, this deployment marks the first time away for such an extended period of time. Please take advantage of our upcoming predeployment briefs — every speaker and facilitator will bring the experience and wisdom of many deployments to ensure your first is the best. I highly encourage you to bring all concerns and questions. These pros will be available to address any concerns you may have. Command readiness cannot exist without family readiness. As we move closer to departure I ask that you take this time to address any issues that may be difficult to resolve when we’re out to sea. Experience has shown many a deployed Sailor in the past: problems do not disappear with distance – in fact, they often get worse.
The reality is that while some of you have navigated these waters more than others, we can all learn and find encouragement from each other. For this reason, I ask those of you spouses to intentionally invest in each others’ lives. Think of all the opportunities that avail themselves every week to have a unique impact in someone’s life, To help a young spouse unexpectedly struggling to make connections, To offer assistance to a young parent of a newborn with no “lifelines”, To bring out the best in another woman who’s trying to overcome some personal failures, or To encourage a parent of a teenager who has exhausted themselves.
As you may have heard on TV or read online, our fleet is facing many challenges in regards to deployment schedules and mission readiness. Such news breeds unhelpful rumors and speculation. Please do not add to these rumors by engaging in conversations regarding the ship’s schedule on social media platforms —or any place for that matter. Through your family readiness group and ombudsmen, you will always get the facts. Keep up the outstanding practice of OPSEC and know that your efforts in protecting ship’s information helps us succeed in protecting the homefront. Warmly, CAPT Ruth
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Thankfully, as spouses you do not have the issue of “rank” to overcome. Some are more experienced than others and may serve as a mentor or “navigator” for another. But we can all learn something from each other. So approach each other with an equal level of respect; care for each other; find the joy of serving each other, intentionally seeking to identify and meet others’ needs and interests. Take your knowledge, your skills, your energy, your spirit, and bless each other with those. As you lock arms with each other, you will find your relationships with other spouses strengthen you for the journey ahead and build your character within.
FROM THE COMMAND MASTER CHIEF CMDCM Teri McIntyre
Happy February NIMITZ Families! As we get closer to deployment, I would like to stress the importance of attending the Pre-deployment briefs. Our Pre-deployment briefs are scheduled for: 4 4 6 7
Mar Mar Mar Mar
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1330 1900 1330 1900
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1430 2000 1430 2000
All sessions will be conducted at the Grand Vista Ballroom, The Commons, NSE. Pre-arranged childcare will be provided for the evening sessions. Speakers will include FFSC, NMCRS, Legal, Ombudsmen, FRG and the Chaplain along with booths sponsored by TRICARE, PSD, American Red Cross, MWR and United for Reading. Planning ahead is the key to a successful deployment and that starts with attending one of the sessions. The preparation checklist is available now; we will be ready to answer all your questions. Childcare is available for the briefs. All registration needs to be done through my office and not the CDC. Your sailors must provide the filled out registration form along with a copy of current immunization, to include which night they need supported to YN3 Brown by February 22nd. If you are in the area, I encourage you to attend the FRG meeting on the 19th of February. Being part of a strong support group will make the deployment even easier. Very Respectfully, CMC Teri McIntyre
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USEFUL INFORMATION
Navy Family Accountability and Assessment System (NFAAS)
FLEET AND FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER (FFSC): 1.866.854.0638
NFAAS allows Navy personnel to manage the recovery process for personnel affected by a widespread catastrophic event. It is also helpful in providing commands with information to support IA family members while their sponsors are deployed overseas. Watch the video and log on to NFAAS. Scan QR code to access NFAAS mobile website 24/7.
NAVY AND MARINE CORPS RELIEF SOCIETY (NMCRS): www.nmcrs.org NAVY LEGAL SERVICE (NLSO): www.jag.navy.mil MILITARY ONE SOURCE: www.militaryonesource.com AMERICAN RED CROSS – NATIONAL: (877)272-7337 SAFE RIDE TAXI - YELLOW CAB: (206)622-6500
Important Contact Information Naval Hospital Bremerton Tricare Regional Appointment Center: 1-800-404-4506
NFAAS notifications NFAAS has the capability of send out notifications via email and text. Personnel and family members will only receive these alerts if their contact information is up to date and in the system correctly. Many Navy family members no longer have home phone numbers; instead they use their cell phone number as their home number. In this case, the number should be listed in NFAAS as both the home and cell number, with carrier listed as well. For more information, log into NFAAS by going to: https://navyfamily.navy.mil.
Hospital Information Desk: 360-4754000 Pharmacy Refills: 360-475-4217 Branch Health Clinics: Bangor: 360-315-4391 PSNS: 360-476-2508 Everett: 360-304-4060 Link to Website or Visit NHB's Official Facebook site: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Na val-HospitalBremerton/163929576969000
Hearing rumors? Call the Rumor Busters (Nimitz Ombudsmen) at 360-340-7040!
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National Teen Dating Violence Prevention Awareness Month In 2010, President Obama proclaimed February as National Teen Dating Violence Prevention and Awareness Month. This executive recognition exemplifies the gravity of this societal problem. Dating aggression usually begins between the ages of 12-18 and progresses into young adulthood; however, many parents and educators are unaware that one out of three teens are experiencing dating violence. As parents, mentors, educators and community members, we need to be able to prevent, recognize and intervene in this epidemic because our youth’s future and health are being negatively affected. Those who have reported being emotionally, physically or sexually abused by a peer have a higher correlation to the following issues: Substance abuse
Eating disorders
Teen pregnancy
Low self-esteem
Promiscuity and risky sexual behavior
Sexually transmitted diseases
Domestic violence
Suicide attempts
If you are aware of anyone experiencing teen dating violence, call your local Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC) Counseling and Advocacy Program at 866-854-0638 or call the National teen dating hotline at 1-866-331-9474. To learn more about this issue, link to these resources: www.teendvmonth.org
www.letyourheartrule.com
www.loveisrespect.org
TriWest Transition to United Healthcare Military & Veterans Below is a link to a website with information about the medical contractor change, which will be updated as more information becomes available: http://www.triwest.com/en/about-triwest/transition-update-center/ TriWest Healthcare Alliance passes responsibility for the administration of TRICARE in the West Region to United Healthcare Military & Veterans (UHC M&V) as of April 1st, 2013. Beneficiaries will need to call TriWest’s Customer Service number at 1-888-TRIWEST (1-888-874-9378) with any issues or questions. Please note that this transition is for the medical benefit only. Dental and pharmacy are not impacted. Welcome packets will be mailed to all beneficiaries during the mid-February time frame with important information. SPOUSES & FAMILIES: PLEASE HELP US “GET THE WORD OUT!” IF YOU KNOW A NIMITZ FAMILY MEMBER WHO IS NOT RECEIVING THE NIMITZ FIVE STAR REPORT MONTHLY NEWSLETTER, FEEL FREE TO SHARE THIS COPY WITH THEM. PLEASE REMIND THEM TO CONTACT US VIA EMAIL AT USSNIMITZOMBUDSMAN@YAHOO.COM AND ASK TO BE ADDED TO OUR DISTRIBUTION LIST! THIS EMAIL TREE IS ALSO HOW WE IMMEDIATELY DISTRIBUTE IMPORTANT UPDATES FROM THE CO TO OUR NIMITZ FAMILIES. PLEASE REMEMBER TO INCLUDE THE SAILOR’S NAME & RATE SO WE CAN VERIFY ELIGIBILITY. 5
ANNUAL VOLUNTEER INCOME TAX ASSISTANCE PROGRAM BEGINS FEBRUARY 4TH The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program assists eligible persons with preparation and filing of state and federal income taxes at no cost. The VITA tax centers will be operating as self-service sites again this year. The self‐service program provides tax assistance centers equipped with computer stations where customers prepare their own tax returns with the assistance of IRS-trained volunteers. A primary goal of self‐service is to educate our customers so that they will understand and have the ability to complete their own tax returns. Similar to last year, there are certain eligibility requirements for tax preparation services. Active-duty military and their dependents still qualify for VITA service, but retirees, retiree dependents, and former spouses with an adjusted gross income over $57,000 will not be eligible for assistance at the VITA centers. Last year’s tax returns will likely offer taxpayers a good estimate as to the amount of their adjusted gross income for this tax filing season. Navy Region Northwest will offer four self-service tax centers that will be open February 4 through April 15, 2013, from 0800 – 1600, Mondays through Fridays (but closed on federal holidays) at the following locations: 1. Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor: Plaza Building between the Inside Out Café and the Khaki Club; phone (360) 315-8202; 2. Naval Base Kitsap-Bremerton: Navy Operational Support Center (NOSC), BLDG 1013, 2nd Deck; phone (360) 340-2141; 3. Naval Station Everett: Navy Operational Support Center (NOSC), Building 2106, Room 220 on the 2nd Deck; phone (425) 304-3884; and 4. Naval Air Station Whidbey Island: Navy Operational Support Center (NOSC), BLDG 2739, Room 240; phone (360) 257-5712. Appointments are not necessary as services are provided on a walk-in basis, but those seeking tax assistance are encouraged to call their preferred sites with questions regarding hours or eligibility requirements. The hours of operation are subject to change, based on customer demand and/or volunteer staffing requirements. Individuals seeking assistance should bring the following information to the tax center: all W-2s, social security card(s)/number(s) (or other equivalent identification) for spouses and all dependent family members, Form 1099(s), bank statements, proof of child care expenses, daycare provider information, Form 1098 mortgage interest statement(s), divorce decree(s) or dependent exemption certificate(s), IRA information, stock information, last year's federal and state tax returns, direct deposit information (account and routing number), and any other tax related forms that might be in question. If you are married, and are filing a joint tax return, and your spouse does not accompany you to the tax center, you must provide an IRS power of attorney (available at a Region Legal Service Office, Legal Assistance Department, or at http://www.irs.gov/Forms-&-Pubs). The power of attorney must be signed and dated by the absent spouse. For more information, contact the Region Legal Service Office nearest you. POC: Mr. Michael Humphrey, Region Tax Officer, (360) 396-6091. 6
Deployment Resources for children Information to help prepare children and families for deployment is available through the following resources.
MilitaryKidsConnect (MKC) is an online community of military children (ages 6-17) providing access to age-appropriate resources to support children from pre-deployment, through a parent's or caregiver's return. MKC offers activities, games, videos and user surveys that can guide and reinforce understanding, resilience, and coping skills in military children and their peers.
Military Youth on the Move provides information on a wide range of topics including fitting in at a new school, opening a savings account and dealing with a parent’s deployment.
FOCUS World helps military families become stronger in the face of challenges by providing both parents and kids a fun place to learn and practice important skills, such as listening and responding to each other’s concerns, including those related to deployment and reintegration.
National Military Family Association - Operation Purple program runs camps for teens and family retreats at national parks. This program addresses the needs of children and families of wounded service members, as well as providing resources for child care and respite care when a service member is deployed.
The MISSION: Youth Outreach partnership supports military youth, ages 6–18, coping with a deployed parent or parents by creating a positive, supportive network. Visit the website or call 1-800-854-CLUB.
Operation: Military Kids (OMK) - Creating community connections and touching lives . . . before, during and after deployment.
Military Child Education Coalition provides professional development opportunities on working with military populations for school personnel and community members making them aware of the stressors that can be associated with a military deployment.
Military Families Near and Far is a free, bilingual website designed to help elementary school-aged children and families stay connected and communicate during times of tremendous change and uncertainty. Resources are available for grownups too.
Sesame Workshop Talk, Listen, Connect addresses issues related to multiple deployments, family changes that occur when a parent is physically or psychologically injured, and the loss of a parent.
Courage to Care Courage to Talk - The injuries of war — combat or non combat-related, visible or invisible — are lifechanging events for the injured, their families and children. Family and friends play a vital role in the recovery process, especially that of talking and listening. Courage to Talk provides resources to assist in having these challenging conversations.
A Backpack Journalist provides curriculum, workshops and events for Military Youth age groups 6-11 and 12-18 to assist them through the deployment cycle into reintegration.
United through Reading® Military Program helps ease the stress of separation for military families by having deployed parents read children’s books aloud via DVD for their child to watch at home.
Let’s Move! works to combat the epidemic of childhood obesity through engaging every sector impacting a child’s health and providing simple tools to help kids be more active, eat better and get healthy.
Operation Give a Hug strives to provide comfort to children with a deployed parent while helping families get connected to resources and support.
StopBullying.gov is devoted to bullying prevention and education and provides information on how kids, teens, young adults, parents, educators and others in the community can prevent or stop bullying.
Child Care CARES can assist military families with child care issues. 7
Your Nimitz Ombudsman Team With the ship getting ready for deployment your ombudsman is an important resource to have. But who are these people and what exactly do they do? Currently, the Nimitz has a team of four ombudsmen; Jeanine Neiman, Carol Morales, Elizabeth Erler and Lindsay Baldwin. We have been appointed by the Commanding Officer and are volunteer spouses of active duty sailors of the USS Nimitz. We are part of the chain of command and have the job of supporting the command mission by taking care of its families so the service members can focus on their jobs. Our actions are guided by Navy Instruction (OPNAVINST 1750.1G) and a strict Code of Ethics. We are the information link between the Command and its families. A large part of our job is to disseminate official Department of the Navy and Command information up and down the chain of command. We are continually training to stay abreast of current issues affecting our families and resources we can use to help. The ombudsman team has a close relationship with Fleet and Family Support Center and other Navy and local community agencies in order to provide families with information and appropriate resource referrals. The referrals we provide are in an effort to empower families to resolve issues on their own before they require command intervention. We cannot provide counseling, child care, transportation or money, but we refer to those who can. To contact us, you may call 360-340-7040, email us at ussnimitzombudsman@yahoo.com, or find us on Facebook at USS Nimitz Ombudsmen. Our business hours are from 0900 to 2100, but we are available 24 hours for emergencies. When you contact us, you will be treated courteously and professionally and your call will remain confidential (unless you are reporting domestic violence, child abuse, a homicide or suicide). We do our best to answer calls as they come in, but, if we are unable to answer your call and you would like a return call, you must leave a voicemail. We will return your call as soon as possible. As always, it is our pleasure to serve the Nimitz families!
The MilSpouse eMentor Program is a virtual career-building network and mentoring program specifically for military spouses! Through the program's cutting-edge website, spouses can connect with corporate employees and executives from all over the country, who will serve as Career Mentors to help them with job searches and career planning. The goal of MilSpouse eMentor is to help spouses find the best possible jobs while increasing their job stability and upward mobility, two of the most challenging employment issues for highly mobile military spouses. Experienced military spouse mentors are also available to assist spouses with other challenges specific to military families such as deployments and permanent change of station (PCS). Sign up NOW at www.milspousementor.org Or visit them on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/#!/MilSpouseMentor?fref=ts Military Spouse Employment Partnership (MSEP) Brings together Fortune 500 PLUS companies and all Military Services to offer long-term career opportunities to military spouses. MSEP provides military spouses options for financial security, career mobility, and long term employment. For more information on jobs for military spouses, visit the MSEP job portal at: https://msepjobs.militaryonesource.mil/ or visit their Facebook page at: http://facebook.com/profile.php?id=165406143526115
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