October 26, 2012
SOUTH POTOMAC PILOT NEWS AND INFORMATION FOR THE NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY SOUTH POTOMAC DEFENSE COMMUNITY
Embrace Diversity ... Embrace our World
NSWCDD ‘model employer through a diverse workforce’ By Cindy Miller NSWCDD Staff Writer
Link directly to the NSASP Facebook page on your smart phone
INSIDE:
PRESORT STD US POSTAGE PAID SO. MD. NEWSPAPERS PERMIT #1
Navy Wounded Warrior, Page 3
Stressing the importance of diversity in the workplace, Pete Kolakowski, Operations Department (CX) head for Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division (NSWCDD), kicked off Diversity Day 2012 at the Naval Support Facility Dahlgren parade field on Oct. 11 following welcoming remarks by Cmdr. Elvis Mikel, executive officer for Naval Support Activity South Potomac (NSASP). "Today's activities provide an opportunity for us to learn and better appreciate our diverse backgrounds and have fun doing it," said Kolakowski. "One of the Navy's top goals is to create a workplace where it is evident we value and respect all our people and provide opportunities for all to reach their full personal and professional potential." Kolakowski went on to say: "This is a great country, forged from the blend of many races, cultures, traditions, religions, and ethnic backgrounds. We recognize that our work environment is increasingly more global and diverse. We create, test, and implement systems that will be used worldwide. Our ability to bring together the best and brightest minds from a broad spectrum of backgrounds and cultures is therefore critical to address today's challenges and ensure our readiness for the Navy's future mis-
NSWCDD employees compete in the line dancing competition, sponsored by NSWCDD's Warfare Systems Department during Diversity Day 2012. sion needs around the globe." The opening ceremony also featured the Aegis Training and Readiness Center (ATRC) color guard and
the King George High School band. Reflecting the "Embrace Diversity...Embrace our World" theme, Jim Wolfe, head of the Strategic and
Weapon Control Systems Department (K); Mike Till, Engagement Sys-
See Diversity, Page 2
Rocket challenge ignites fun at airfield By Andrew Revelos Staff Writer Young and the young at heart gathered Oct. 19 for the Morale Welfare and Recreation (MWR) Pierce the Sky Roc Challenge at the airfield of Naval Support Facility (NSF) Dahlgren, where seasoned rocket enthusiasts and novices alike shared insight and laughs. Seven "big" rockets competed, while children enjoyed their own non-competitive category with smaller rockets.The competition provided an entertaining mix of science and fate and produced a surprising winner. The beautiful late afternoon day was ideal for spectators, but strong and shifting winds required many adjustments and eventually affected the outcome of the competition. That was of little consequence to the most
U.S. Navy photos by Andrew Revelos
"Big Banana" takes flight at the Pierce the Sky Roc Challenge at the airfield in Dahlgren on Oct. 19. Steve Waner, left, missile engineer at the Missile Defense Agency, emceed the competition; "Big Banana" was launched by Bob Mack, right, team member of the B-32 Missile Monkeys. enthusiastic rocketeers on the airfield, the children.
First to launch a rocket was Stephen, 4, who was accompanied by
his grandfather Steve Hock, a system engineer at the Missile Defense Agency (MDA).The successful launch may as well have been over the moon for young Stephen, who gleefully chased down his rocket shortly after it landed. Though euphoric, Stephen was already making plans for his next launch. "It's going to be super, super duper high," he beamed. "Was that fun?" asked Hock. "Yeah," was Stephen's unhesitating answer. Among the adults, the feelings were much the same, if only a bit more subdued. After all, many of these amateur rocketeers were not amateurs at all. "Critically Optimized" was a very serious attempt at rocket greatness, built by engineers from the Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division (NSWC DD) Z
See Rocket, Page 9
FREE CLASSIFIED ADS FOR MILITARY AND GOVERNMENT CIVILIAN EMPLOYEES E-mail nsasp_pao_dlgr@navy.mil or Call (540) 653-8153
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Friday, October 26, 2012
The South Potomac Pilot
Pumpkin Patch at NSF Dahlgren
NSF Dahlgren children and their parents took over the Parade Field Oct. 18 for Dahlgren's Pumpkin Patch Halloween event. Attendees enjoyed spooky stories, pony rides, face-painting, sweets and of course, pumpkin decorating!
US Navy Photos by Andrew Revelos
Diversity
Continued from page 1
tems Department (G) deputy; Jeff Dodd, Asymmetric Systems Department (Z) deputy; and Kolakowski gave their department program overviews. NSWCDD employees "tailgated" and "showcased" their professional projectsandpersonaltalents,answering questions about what they do. Sean Locker, one of about 18 wounded warriors working in Z Department, was onboard at the Diversity Day events to showcase the ME-L [Marine Air Ground Task Force Enabler-Light] project that he and other personnel in Z designed to help his fellow warfighters. ME-L is a suite of advanced communications equipment integrated on a lightweight Jeep-sized vehicle that can be transported on a MV-22 Osprey and provide over-the-horizon, on-the-move communications for a Marine Air Ground Task Force. Keeping the fun going, Stephanie Hornbaker, Warfare Systems Department (W) deputy, challenged the other departments to a line dance competition, with the loudest applause revealing the winners. Operations Department dancers won the competition. Marcella Bushrod, NSWCDD EEO Coordinator, announced other winners of the day. In the Diversity Creative Media/Art contest, Darren Barnes of the Electromagnetic and Sensor Systems Department (Q) took first place for the photo category, Rob Harris of G Department for the woodworking category, and Melanie Lunney of Z Department for the art contest. A wide variety of information stations filled the parade field, in-
Pete Kolakowski kicks off Diversity Day 2012 at the Dahlgren parade field.
King George High School band performs at the parade field during Diversity Day 2012. cluding the Hispanic Association exhibit manned by Bowhead employee Gabriela Kunz and W Department employee Jennilee Padilla who served sweet, fried plantains, or plรกtanos maduros, and demonstrated how to prepare them by slicing them in rounds and cooking them in oil. They then drained, flattened, and refried the plantains. Q Department deputy, Shelly Clift, was among the many observers who enjoyed sampling the Spanish treat. The Society ofWomen Engineers information booth contained literature promoting programs and partnerships to support the retention and advancement of women in engineering. "Our focus," said Brandy Jackson of G Department "is to inspire young women to find and follow their dreams as future engineers, starting with K-12 students, encouraging them to believe in their math and science skills and exposing them to engineering as a mean-
Sean Locker, an employee in the Asymmetric Systems Department (Z), Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division, discusses project ME-L [Marine Air Ground Task Force Enabler-Light] that he and other personnel in Z Department designed to help his fellow warfighters. ingful and rewarding career choice." Representing the local NSWCDD chapter of Blacks in Government (BIG), Elma Williams-Coleman, chapter president, says: "BIG is
committed to professional growth and excellence. I encourage your commitment to BIG and your support to our local and national office." Other exhibits represented in-
cluded Security Awareness Day, Bolga baskets, Vintage Textbooks, Work Life 4You, Paint and Sip, Cuatro guitars, Toastmasters, National Society of Black Engineers, and ATRC. Besides Zumba sessions and Salsa lessons, NSASP soloist Michael Kelly and Jericho's Band entertained the crowd of over 200. The event is sponsored each year under the administration of the EEO office: Tara Roane, NSWCDD's Deputy EEO Officer and Diversity Manager; and Marcella Bushrod, Disability Program Manager and Special Emphasis Programs Coordinator. The event is in its third year. Co-chairs for this year were Jessica Delgado, Hispanic Employment Program Manager; and LaChanda Anaganwoke, Black Employment Program Manager. Both program managers work in G Department. "We could not have pulled this off without the support of so many people throughout the base and members of our EEO staff," Bushrod said. "Best of all, we had total department participation. NSWCDD is a model employer.The only way to be a model employer is through a diverse workforce."
Friday, October 26, 2012
CARPOOL/VANPOOL WANTED Van or Car pool desired from Fredericksburg or King George to Indian Head, Monday thru Friday with one RDO, prefer 7-430, but hours can be negotiated. 703-909-3380. Riders wanted to start a carpool from the Northern Neck (Lively/Lancaster), passing through Warsaw at 0605 and Montross at 0615, arriving at Dahlgren by 0700; leaving Dahlgren at 1600. Call Lea at 540-653-6776 or 571-232-5412 (cell). From the Ferry Farm area to Dahlgren Bldg. 1500 area. Prefer early work hours. Call Mark, 540-653-2148. Riders wanted for van pool. Leaves from Richmond at Home Depot on Atlee-Elmont Rd. (exit # 86B off I-95) to Dahlgren. Call David at (540) 653-9203. Clinton, Md., to Dahlgren. Hours are flexible (0600 - 1700). Call Miranda at 703692-9590. Carpool/vanpool wanted from Montross area to Dahlgren. Can also take up to 3 or 4 riders from here if they would prefer me to drive. Call Doc at 252-670-6686. Early risers only.
Want to start a carpool? Need riders? “Commuter Clearinghouse” is a source for information on carpools or vanpools that already exist and need passengers, as well as a place for employees to advertise to start a carpool or vanpool. Whether you already operate a carpool or vanpool and are open to accepting new riders or need drivers, or if you are looking for a carpool or vanpool, provide us with information that might help you find or start a commuter opportunity, such as, where you will need to commute from and to, preferred schedule and contact information. You can send your information via e-mail to nsasp_pao_dlgr@ navy.mil or contact our office toll free at 866-359-5540, or DSN 249-8153, or 540653-8153.
FREDERICKSBURG RIDESHARING SERVICE GWRideConnect is a free ridesharing service that assists persons who are seeking daily transportation from Fredericksburg, Stafford, Spotsylvania, Caroline and King George counties to employment locations in Dahlgren among other employment sites. Go to www.gwregion.org/gwride connect.html.
The South Potomac Pilot
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Navy Wounded Warrior: A critical resource for Sailors By Commander Navy Installations Command Navy Wounded Warrior Safe Harbor Program Staff
Early one morning in October 2007, Navy Boatswain's Mate 1st Class Jim Castaneda suffered a stroke during muster aboard USS Tortuga (LSD 46). The stroke was entirely unexpected and, in a matter of moments, Castaneda's life was forever changed. Shortly after arriving at Naval Medical Center San Diego for treatment, Castaneda was referred to NavyWoundedWarrior (NWW)—Safe Harbor. His NWW Nonmedical Care Manager helped his family navigate the various non-medical issues - from securing various payments and entitlements, to providing advice on a home application, to accessing Veterans Affairs benefits—that threatened to distract from Castaneda's recovery. "[NWW] is one of those programs that commands may have heard about but don't know too much about," said Castaneda. "But once they know what it does and how it helps families and severely injured Sailors they will appreciate it." Indeed, only one-quarter of enlisted Sailors and less than one-half of naval officers are aware of Commander Navy Installations Command's Navy Wounded Warrior—Safe Harbor program and the services it provides. Yet, it is among the most important resources available to Navy families. Illness or injury can strike at any time. When they do, NWW can clear away the clutter and allow service members to focus on what's most important—getting well. NWW tailors support to each wounded warrior's recovery, rehabilitation and
reintegration needs. It's team of experts addresses pay and personnel issues, child and youth care, transportation and housing needs, education and training benefits, and much more. The program's goal is to return wounded warriors to duty, but when that's not possible, it works collaboratively with federal agencies and partner organizations to ensure their successful reintegration back into their communities. "NWW will address virtually any problem that surfaces during a wounded warrior's recovery process," said NWW direc-
tor Capt. Steve Hall. "NWW Non-medical Care Managers provides enrollees a shoulder to lean on, a helping hand, an ear to listen and encouraging words.They act as advocates when service members need one most." NWW enrollment is not limited to service members who have been wounded in combat operations or shipboard and training accidents. It also is available to those affected by serious illness—like Castaneda—or liberty accidents.
See Warrior, Page 6
JWAC Team Runs 200-Mile Race By J. Steven Moore JWAC PAO Air Force and Navy enlisted members at the JointWarfare Analysis Center ran a 200-mile relay race from Cumberland, Md. to Washington, D.C. September 2122, raising $1,200 for charity. The race was part of the 2012 D.C. Ragnar Relay, a two-day, one-night relay race that tests runners by pushing them to the limits of their endurance. "On paper, the Ragnar looked fairly easy," said Navy Intelligence Specialist Second Class James A. Cardoza. "It's funny how running a nine-mile leg, mostly uphill, at night, while eating a mouthful of dust as support vans pass you on a narrow strip of dirt road can quickly change your mind. The race is definitely a rite of passage for runners at any level." Ragnar relays are held annually across the country. Teams are comprised of six to twelve runners who each run three legs of the race. JWAC's team included nine military members - Air Force Master Sgt. Lakisha A. Adams, Air Force Sgt. Veronica Babauta, Cardoza, Air Force Tech. Sgt. Steven L. Hanan, NavyYeoman
Second Class Jeffrey S. Johnson, Intelligence Specialist First Class Seth L. Phelps, Mrs. Sheena Phelps, Intelligence Specialist Chief Matthew A. Spears, Tech. Sgt. Adam A. Yankush—each of whom averaged 13 to 20 miles. The money raised by JWAC's team
will go to Back on My Feet, a national nonprofit organization seeks to create independence and self-sufficiency within the homeless and other underserved populations by first engaging them in running as a means to build confidence, strength, and self-esteem.
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Friday, October 26, 2012
The South Potomac Pilot
Base Happenings Dahlgren Veteran's Day Ceremony
NSF Dahlgren will hold aVeteran's Day Ceremony on Wed., Nov. 7 at Aegis Auditorium. Guest speaker will be Camilla Schwoebel of the Virginia Wounded Warrior Foundation. All with base access are invited to attend.
Dahlgren CFC Prize Drawings
The Dahlgren CFC will be giving away two 32" televisions and a Kindle Fire in drawings on Nov. 1, Nov. 29 and Dec. 12. All pledge slips will receive an entry into the drawing. The drawing is open to all employees. To enter, call (540) 284-0129.
Army v. Navy Blood Drive Challenge
Go Navy - beat Army - in blood donations, that is! Participate in this special blood drive on Dec. 3 from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. at JD's Conference Center. All donors will receive an Army v. Navy t-shirt. NSWC Federal Credit Union will have their prize wheel for all participants. There will be giveaways and snacks for all donors. To make an appointment, visit www.militarydonor.com. Give our troops the most precious gift of all, the gift of life - give blood!
Second Tour Thrift Store Needs Your Donations
Are you cleaning house for the school year/change of season? Are you moving? Please donate your gently used clothing & household items to the Second Tour Thrift Boutique next to the USO at Dahlgren! All proceeds are donated to charities in the Dahlgren/King George and surrounding communities, and provide scholarship funds to dependents of military personnel - past and present - stationed on Dahlgren. Please do not donate used personal items (under clothes, socks, etc.). We are open every Thursday from 9:30 a.m. - noon. Our Fall/Winter and Halloween stock is now available. Come see us on Thursday!
Indian Head IH Spouses' Club "Treasures" Thrift Store Needs Your Donations!
Plan today to visit the Treasures Thrift Store, located at 12 Strauss Ave. next door to the USO. The store is open everyTuesday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Donations of gently used items are currently being accepted.Want to earn up to $5 in free items from the thrift store every month?Volunteer! Stop by the thrift store during operating hours or email ihspouseclub@live.com for information.
To publish information on your event or program under "Base Happenings," contact NSASP Public Affairs at 540-653-8153 or email jeron.hayes@navy.mil.
Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) comes in a variety of shapes, sizes and conditions. Do not assume objects that do not look like traditional projectiles, bombs and grenades are safe. UXO can also include blasting caps, primers, fuses and igniters. For your safety and for the safety of those around you, stay vigilant and call in the experts if UXO is encountered.
UXO expert to base personnel: stay vigilant By Andrew Revelos NSASP Staff Writer In the day-to-day grind at Naval Support Facilities (NSFs) Dahlgren and Indian Head, it is easy to forget that danger lurks underfoot. Of course, unexploded ordnance (UXO) is a concern at nearly every military installation, but decades of explosives research and testing at Dahlgren and Indian Head make it especially important for all personnel to maintain vigilance. If UXO is encountered, taking the proper course of action can mean the difference between life and death. UXO is most often encountered during construction projects that dig beneath the soil and along water, where weather, tides and erosion can wash up old ordnance. Hunters who walk beyond established roads and trails also find UXO in Dahlgren and Indian Head. Identifying UXO is the first step. "That is something that is not as easy as it sounds, because not all UXO is the familiar shapes, such as projectiles, bombs, missiles, mines, grenades... that the
average person associates as some type of ordnance," said Jerry Payne, explosives safety officer for NSASP. "Quite often, UXO can be just a component of all-up round such as a fuse, igniter, blasting cap, primer or some typecartridgeactuateddevice," he adds. "It can be extremely hard to tell sometimes." Time has taken a toll on much of the UXO uncovered at Dahlgren and Indian Head and the bases' annexes in Pumpkin Neck and Stump Neck. Corrosion, deterioration and encrustment may cause ordnance to lose its shape and outline, while also causing it to blend in with the color of the soil. Safety and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) experts have determined the course of action that must be taken if potential UXO is encountered.
DO:
- Mark the location if possible (avoid sticking markers in the ground) - Look at your feet and surrounding area to see if there are anymore items around. - Turn around and walk
back the way came at least 300 meters/1,000 feet. - Call 911 or Security Dispatch at (540) 653-8095. Advise them of what the item might be if possible. - Wait in a safe place to meet Security and EOD for any questions they might have.
DO NOT:
- Do not go in for a closer look. - Do not touch or disturb the item in any way. - Do not walk backwards away from the item. - Do not use a cell phone near the item. - Do not neglect to report the item to Base Security. - Do not leave the safe area until meeting with Base Security and EOD. The importance of reporting potential UXO and treating suspicious items with extreme caution cannot be over-emphasized. Between Dahlgren and Indian Head, the installations have hosted a combined 216 years of explosives research and development. "The history at NSF Indian Head goes back to 1890, when Indian Head first be-
came a Naval Ordnance Station," said Payne. "Between 1891 and 1921 the Navy basically used a lot of area there as a firing range for various calibers of guns from 1" to 16," testing both armor and guns. "The Marine Corps fired heavy calibers weapons from Quantico into Indian Head up to 1934," adds Payne. "It was used for jet propulsion research from 1940 to 1944. During transport of propellant grains by railroad between 1927 and 1942 and again in the late 1980s before the railroad was abandoned, grains were seen spilling from the trains." Though not as old as Indian Head, Dahlgren poses it own dangers. "Dahlgren was established in 1918," said Payne. "During World War II parts of the station were used as bombing range. NSF Dahlgren hosts the Navy's longest river gun range. "The Naval Surface Warfare Centers at Indian Head and Dahlgren are research, development, testing and evaluation (RDT&E) activities. Because of practices in the past, both facilities have multiple UXO sites."
UMD offers Military Special The University of Maryland Terrapins are proud to work with area Military personnel to offer special ticket prices for Military Appreciation Night. TheTerps will be honoring members of the Military and their families at Byrd Stadium on Saturday, November 3rd when theTerps take on the GeorgiaTech Yellow Jackets. Maryland football is offering military discounts current or retired military personnel, family members and Department
of Defense employees. Military Discounts -Lower level seating options beginning at just $45/ticket -300-Level tickets at only $25/ticket To order tickets or for more information, contact our representative in the Maryland ticket office, Nicolle Guinan, on her direct line at 301-405-8116, or by email at nguinan1@umd.edu. Act quickly because tickets are moving fast!!
NSA South Potomac • Office: 540-653-8153 • 540-284-0129 www.dcmilitary.com/dahlgren The South Potomac Pilot Newspaper is published weekly by Southern Maryland Newspapers and Printing, 7 Industrial Park Drive, Waldorf, Md. 20602, a private company in no way connected with the U.S. Navy, under exclusive written contract with Naval District Washington. This commercial enterprise newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services. Contents of The South Potomac Pilot are not necessarily the official views of, nor endorsed by the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, or the Department
Capt. Peter Nette
Commanding Officer, NSA South Potomac
Gary R. Wagner
Public Affairs Officer, NSA South Potomac
of the Navy. The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense or Southern Maryland Newspapers and Printing of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use, or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron. If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser
is confirmed, the publisher shall refuse to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. Editorial content is edited, prepared, and provided by the Public Affairs Office, NSA South Potomac. News copy should be submitted by noon on Friday to be considered for the following week’s edition. All material is edited for accuracy, brevity, clarity, and conformity to regulations. To inquire about news copy, call 540-653-8153 or fax The South Potomac Pilot at 540-653-4269. Commercial advertising may be placed with the publisher by calling 301-645-9480.
Jeron Hayes
Deirdre Parry and Breton Helsel
NSA South Potomac Managing Editor
Andrew Revelos Staff Reporter
Copy/layout editors, The Gazette/ Comprint Military Publications
Friday, October 26, 2012
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The South Potomac Pilot
MWR Highlights Dahlgren Fitness Center
lins and ghouls, too! For more information, contact the Dahlgren General Library 540653-7474.
540-653-8580
Spooky Halloween Dodgeball Tournament
October 30, 4 p.m. Register until Oct. 28 NSF Dodgeball Series. Spooky Halloween Tournament. For more information, contact the Fitness Center 540-653-8580.
Turkey Trot 5K Run/Walk
Bowling Center 540-653-7327
Bowl a Turkey 2012
November 1 - 18 Bowl aTurkey (three strikes) and drop your name in the box with your phone number. The winner receives a Thanksgiving turkey. For more information, contact Cannonball Lanes 540-653-7327.
November 7, 11 a.m. Registration will take place at the Fitness Center on or before the day of the race. Tshirts will be given to the first 20 registrants. This race is open to all eligible patrons. $5 per Civilians and free for Military. Turkeys and pies will be awarded to the overall male, female and military finishers. For more information, please call Ira Seth at 540-653-2215 or the Fitness Center at 540-653-8580. Sponsored by Carroll's Automotive, Lincoln Military Housing and NSWC Federal Credit Union.
Hiking in Westmorland State Park November 3 Cost is free / Liberty Center Patrons Only: E1- E6 Single/Unaccompanied Active Duty Military. Enjoy the great outdoors. For more information, please contact the Liberty Center at 540-653-7277.
General Library
Auto Skills Center
540-653-7474
Halloween at the Library
October 31, 6 p.m. Eligible Patrons: All with base access. Cost: FREE Children can dress in their favorite costumes and come to the Library to trick-ortreat inside. There will be plenty of candy and goodies, and perhaps some ghosts and gob-
Liberty Center 540-653-7277
540-653-4900
Winterization Maintenance
November 5, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Office located behind Cannonball Lanes Bowling Center. Cost: Free. Is your car ready for the cold winter weather? Let us help you make sure your car is good to go and teach you all the proper precautions to take to get ready for the
winter months. For more information, please contact 540-653-4900.
Indian Head
Dahlgren Movie Theater
Special Events Dress a Pin Contest
Stop by any MWR facility and pick up a bowling pin. Best costume wins! Judging will be held on Oct. 30 at the Bowling Center. $5 to enter.
Door Decorating Contest
Departments and Housing residents are all invited to compete for the best Halloween Themed door. Prizes will be awarded in both office and housing categories. Send an email to corey.mccabe@navy.mil by 10/29 to register or for contest information.
MWR Halloween Spooktakular
Saturday, October 27 from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the Mix House. Join us for face painting, a pumpkin patch, arts & crafts, haunted house, hayride, music and more! This event is FREE and open to all eligible patrons.
Heads will Roll Bowling
Tuesday, October 30 from 5 - 9 p.m. Come out for a fun night of bowling. Free for anyone in costume. $5 for everyone else. Pin decorating contest judging will also take place at this event.
Library Trick or Treating and Crafts
Wednesday, October 31 All Day Children can dress in costume and trick or treat at the General Library. Free and open to all eligible patrons.
Mix House Rentals
The holiday season is right around the corner, the Mix House is the perfect location for your next gathering. Stop by and check out the new renovations and spectacular views from the deck overlooking the Potomac River! The Mix House can be rented for office parties, birthday parties or any special event you may have. The facility can be set up any way you would like for your event. To book your date or take a tour please call 301-7446487.
Youth Fishing Derby
November 3, 8 a.m. to Noon at the Area 8 Stump Neck Pond Please register at the ITT Office by October 29 to ensure base access. All those attending, including spectators, must be registered. A limited amount of equipment will be available for those who don't have their own. Prizes will be awarded and refreshments will be provided.
Recreational Gear Rentals
The MWR Auto Hobby Shop rents an extensive selection of equipment for your recreational needs. Available items include tents, canoes, tarps, picnic tents, tables, chairs, moon bounce, grills, lanterns, sporting equipment and more! Rentals are available on a daily, weekly or weekend basis. Call the Hobby Shop at 301-744-6314 for more information or stop by and see what we have to offer.
540-653-7336 Hours of Operation Friday: 7 p.m. showing Saturday: 7 p.m. showing Price of Shows $5 Civilian, $4 Active Duty, Retired and Reserve Mil. E-7 and above and their family members with ID, $2.50 E-1 - E-6 and below and their family members with ID, $2 child (6-11), Free - child (5 and under). Movies shown in 3-D will add an additional $1 to ticket price. Oct 26 - Premium Rush Rated PG-13 - 91 min. Oct 27 - ParaNorman (2-D) Rated PG - 92 min. Nov 2 - Lawless Rated R - 115 min. Nov 3 - The Possession Rated PG-13 - 91 min.
NEW Campers Available
15' Cozy Traveler Recreational Trailer (sleeps up to 6) $55 per day $100 per weekend $245 for a week Call 301-744-6314 for more information.
Liberty Center Programs
The Liberty Program is designed to provide recreational activities for single or unaccompanied military personnel, particularly ages 18-24 stationed at Indian Head. If you are eligible to participate in the Liberty program, take advantage of these exciting opportunities.
Monday Night Football
Liberty will be hosting multiple Monday Night Football parties! Starting at 7:30 p.m. on Monday nights throughout Football season, enjoy pizza, wings and soda during the game. Free for all Liberty-eligible patrons.
Poker Tournament
First Wednesday of each month, 5 p.m. at the Liberty Center. Liberty will be hosting a series of poker tournaments. Prizes will be given at each tournament with a champion prize awarded at every championship game. Snacks and drinks will be available. Register at the Liberty Center one day prior to each tournament.
Ping Pong Tournament
October 27 Liberty will be hosting a ping pong tournament at the Liberty Center at 2 p.m. Prizes will be awarded to the 1st and 2nd place winners.
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The South Potomac Pilot
Friday, October 26, 2012
Community Notes Dahlgren Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day at King George Landfill
King George Landfill will accept hazardous waste from KG residents only on Sat., Oct. 27 from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. All must show ID. For questions on what will be accepted, call (540) 376-6965.
Urbanna Oyster Festival
The annual Urbanna Oyster Festival will be held Nov. 2-3. The official Oyster Festival of the Commonwealth offers a wide array of events for the entire family. Taste some of Virginia's delicious oysters and enjoy entertainment, arts and crafts, a fireman's parade, a beauty pageant, marching bands, antique cars and floats. For more info, visit http://www.virginia.org/Listings/EventsAndExhibits/UrbannaOysterFestival/.
Indian Head Harvest Halloween Party
Town of La Plata will hold a Harvest Halloween Party at the Town Hall on Saturday, October 27 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Come in costume and enjoy crafts, snacks, and treats for the little ones.
Come Help Us Celebrate Fall at FallFest!
The Celebrate Charles FallFest will take place on Saturday, Oct. 27, from 1:30 - 6:30 p.m. at Regency Furniture Stadium (11765 St. Linus Drive, Waldorf). The marketplace will feature some of Southern Maryland's most talented artists, authors, crafters, jewelers, farmers, and more! G-Rod Jerk Ribs & BBQ and Apple Spice Junction as well as the Regency Furniture Stadium concession stands will have food available for purchase. While enjoying the fall day, live music will be provided by Three Sixty, The Justin Crenshaw Band, and John Luskey. Children can keep busy at the "Trick-or-Treat Trail" and the "Family Fun Zone". Family Fun Zone wristbands will be available for $5 each and allow all-you-can-play access to the inflatables, rides, PNC Kid's Zone, and face painting. The themed fireworks display will start at 6:30 p.m. Event held rain or shine. Vendor spaces are still available. For more information, visit www. CharlesCountyMD.gov.
Ward Virts Free Concert Series Presents Musicians Mato, Snell, Johnson, Nov. 11 The College of Southern Maryland welcomes clarinetist Takako Mato, flutist Lucy Snell and pianist Stephen Johnson to perform at the Ward Virts Concert Series at 3 p.m., Nov. 11 at the Prince Frederick Campus, Room 119. The performance is the second of six in the concert series, which is held at CSM's Prince Frederick Campus, 115 J.W. Williams Road, Prince Frederick. Admission is free and seating is open but limited. Contact 443-550-6011, rfleming@csmd.edu or www.csmd.edu/Arts.
La Plata Veterans' Parade Town of La Plata will host a Veterans Day Parade on Sunday, Nov. 11 at 1 p.m. Join us to honor the men and women of the US Armed Forces. The Salute to Veterans Parade starts at 1PM at the Courthouse on Charles Street in La Plata. Bring the kids, and come enjoy an old-fashioned, hometown parade! For more info, visit www.townoflaplata.org. Parade registration deadline is Monday, October 29th.
CSM Holds Auditions for "The Empty Chair"
College of Southern Maryland will hold auditions for Cause Theatre Production: "The Empty Chair" at 6 p.m. on Nov. 12 and 13 at College of Southern Maryland, La Plata Campus, Fine Arts Center, 8730 Mitchell Road, La Plata. "The Empty Chair," by Tim Kelly, is about a counseling center for teenagers recovering from substance abuse. One of the teenager's peers, Robert, has just died of an overdose. Unsure of whether the incident is an accident or suicide, the atmosphere is tense and uneasy. Each young person recalls their memories of Robert and the dramatic monologues tell us a great deal about each speaker and the terrors of drug abuse. Auditions are open to those 16 years of age and older. Prepare a one-minute monologue. This production will be performed at the CSM Prince Frederick Campus, Jan. 25; Leonardtown Campus, Jan. 31-Feb. 2; La Plata Campus, Feb. 7-9. Call for info, 301-934-7828, 240-725-5499, 443-5506199, 301-870-2309, Ext. 7828 or BxOffc@csmd.edu. www.csmd.edu/Arts.
Trini and Richard Hopp share a lighthearted moment with their son, Chief Richard Hopp, after surprising him for his promotion ceremony in Hawaii. Chief Hopp's gold and black Lei is from his crew and was presented as an honor to the "Warrior," representing that he fights for his people.
NAMDC member makes a "Pinning" surprise Retired Chief pins anchors on astonished son In a family where tradition of Navy service runs deep, Richard "Rusty" Hopp, a retiredNavy CW4 and training and assessment specialist, knew his son's promotion to chief was a big deal - too bad 5,000 miles separated the two. Hopp Sr. works at Navy Air and Missile Defense Command in Dahlgren,Va., Hopp II is stationed at Naval Computer andTelecommunications Area Master Station Pacific in Wahiawa, Hawaii, as the Pacific Regional Networks Operations Center lead Petty Officer. "I was really upset that my family was not coming to my promotion ceremony," said the junior Hopp. "Dad knew how important this was to me, but I also understood the distance, cost and prior commitments made his attendance impossible." Remembering his promotion to chief "a million years ago," and the emotions that went with it, Hopp senior felt a strong emotional tug on his conscious. "I was the induction officer when he enlisted in the Navy; I was there again to re-enlist him in 2004, and in 2006 I re-enlisted him on the USS Blue Ridge-the ship I was acting Command Master Chief in 1998, and the ship my youngest son is currently stationed on." The mixture of tradition, prominence and
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November marks Warrior Care Month, a time to recognize wounded warriors, as well as their caregivers, for their service, sacrifices, and achievements. This year's theme, "Success through Transition," highlights the many ways wounded warriors and their families thrive after illness and injury—on active duty, on the playing field, in the classroom, or on the job. This month, Adm. Cecil D. Haney, commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, will host the first-ever Wounded Warrior Pacific Trials at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam and the Uni-
family patriotism made the event just too big to miss. He had to promote his son. So he and his wife, Trini, decided to go to Hawaii - but with one twist - it would be a surprise. A week later with the execution of a wellplanned military operation, Mom and Dad found themselves parked near the ceremony site, watching the Chiefs-to-be go through rehearsal. The now perfect plan almost collapsed, however, when their son wandered away from the ceremony site and meandered unknowingly right beside their truck. Fortunately one of the chiefs, who knew the plot, jumped in and mustered the junior Hopp back to the tent. A short time later, "Information Technology Specialist Chief Selectee Richard Hopp front and center" was announced. Unknowing to him, mom and dad were right behind him. Not until the master of ceremonies announced "Chief Hopp will have his anchors pinned on by his parents," did he know. "I was shocked; I had no idea. Suddenly out of nowhere, my mom and dad are pinning on my anchors. It was an unbelievable surprise," said the Navy's newest chief. "Being there and taking part in this event was truly special-I was beside myself bursting with pride. I'm proud of all my kids, but making this promotion to chief is a giant step." And it was a step they made together - as father to son, Navy Chief to Navy Chief. versity of Hawaii Nov. 12 - 17, 2012. More than 50 seriously wounded, ill and injured Sailors and Coast Guardsmen from across the country—including Castaneda—will compete for a place on the 2013 Warrior Games Navy-Coast Guard team. NWWencouragedCastanedatogetinvolved in adaptive athletics several years ago, and it has had a tremendously positive impact on his life. He says, "Everyone [competing in adaptive athletics]seemssevenfeettall—largerthanlife.Ifeel like superman. I can do anything now." Sailors and their families are urged to take time duringWarrior Care Month to honor and support our wounded warriors.They can refer a service member to the program who has experienced serious illness or injury by calling 855-NAVY WWP (628-9997).
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Protect Yourself from 2013 Tax Hikes 3 Tips for Taking Advantage of This Year’s Lower Tax Rates Income taxes are going up next year, and not just for those who earn more than $200,000 a year. “Taxes are likely to be higher for everyone,” says financial planner Rick Rodgers, author of The New ThreeLegged Stool: A Tax Efficient Approach To Retirement Planning (www.RodgersSpeaks.com). “We all know about the expiring Bush tax cuts, which may or may not be extended for everyone or just some,” he says. “There are also new taxes that were part of the healthcare reform law passed in 2010; the expiring payroll tax cut; the alternative minimum tax that already expired in 2011, and many other provisions that have expired or will expire at year end.” Nearly everyone should prepare to pay more, Rodgers says. The good news is you still have time to take advantage of 2012 tax rates, which may turn out to be the lowest we will see in some time. Rodgers offers these strategies that can be implemented before the end of 2012: • Roth Conversion - No one knows for sure what will happen to the tax code next year, which is why a Roth conversion is one of the best tax-planning strategies available. Converting a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA creates a taxable event in 2012. All future earnings in the account will be tax-
The good news is you still have time to take advantage of 2012 tax rates, which may turn out to be the lowest we will see in some time.
free, as long as you wait five years and are age 59½ or older when you take withdrawals. The biggest advantage to the Roth conversion strategy is the ability to “undo” the transaction as late as Oct. 15, 2013. Should the new Congress pass a major tax reform bill next year that lowers tax rates across the board, you can put the money back into your IRA. It will be like the transaction never happened. • Harvest Capital Gains - Harvesting gains is similar to harvesting losses. Sell appreciated securities that you’ve held for at least 12 months to realize the long-term gain for tax purposes. You can immediately repurchase the same asset because there is no wash sale rule for realizing gains. This allows you to pay tax on the gain in 2012, when rates are low, and establish a new cost basis in the asset to minimize increased gains that may be taxed at higher rates. This strategy should appeal to anyone in the 15-percent tax
bracket because capital gains are taxed at zero and may jump to 8 to 10 percent in 2013 if the tax cuts expire. The strategy is also appealing to anyone subject to the Medicare surtax. If the current tax laws expire, the tax rate on long-term capital gains will jump from 15 percent to 23.8 percent (21.8 percent for assets held more than five years). • Pay Medical Expenses - Anyone who normally itemizes medical expenses on their tax return should accelerate those expenses into 2012 if they can. Medical expenses are deductible only if they exceed 7½ percent of adjusted gross income (AGI). This means if your AGI is $50,000, you can deduct only medical expenses over $3,750. Next year the threshold jumps to 10 percent of AGI. Pay your January medical insurance premium in December to move this deduction to 2012. Any routine eye exams or dental visits should be moved up to December. Paying with a credit card would give you the deduction this year and delay the actual payment until 2013. Rodgers warns that a common mistake is to wait and see what happens. It has not been uncommon for Congress to make significant changes to the tax code late in December, leaving taxpayers little time to react. He advises a diversified approach to tax planning. Make a partial Roth conversion, harvest some capital gains but don’t wait until it’s too late to do anything about rising taxes. Take a proactive approach to tax planning this year to cushion any fall from the fiscal cliff.
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Department. It took the competition's scoring formula, the length of the rocket times the duration of flight, to heart with an extraordinarily long design. After the parachute of "Critically Optimized" failed to deploy during its first launch, a hard landing required a hasty shortening of the rocket's nose. But no matter; the second attempt saw it reach an impressive apogee. Unfortunately, however, "Critically Optimized" caught a strong wind when its chute deployed on the second launch, disappearing after 72 seconds beyond the tree line at the end of the air field. Its designers searched the woods in vain; for a rocket's score to count, it must be recovered. "Big Ugly Stick" was another impressive design, created by Craig Phillips, chief missile engineer for NSWC DD G Department. Phillips also provided a sturdy rocket launch pad that he shared with other competitors, saving the tall rockets from the increasingly strong wind gusts that were starting to make launches problematic. "It's adjustable and amazing," said SteveWaner, the missile engineer from MDA who emceed the challenge, of Phillips' homemade launch pad. "Big Banana," an entry constructed by a team calling themselves the B-32 Missile Monkeys, became a bent banana after its chute failed to deploy during its first attempt. After a few repairs to the appropriately-yellow rocket, however, a second attempt put in a respectable performance. "Us monkeys work best in crisis mode," explained Bob Mack, Missile Monkey team member. Tony Jordan, MWR custodian, worked hard to represent his organization with "Skystreaker," but problems kept him grounded until the very end of the competition, when "Skystreaker" finally lived up to its namesake. The successful launch was a childhood goal fulfilled for Jordan. "I always wanted [a rocket]," said Jordan, "but my dad was scared it would explode." Jordan wasn't the only non-scientist or engineer who sought to match wits with Dahlgren's finest. FC3 Mike Grudziecki's "Last Minute" won the competition. The Aegis Training and Readiness Center (ATRC) Sailor had some help from shipmate FC3 Adrien Mott and from an open source rocket simulator called Open Rocket that helped him run his design's numbers. "I was making design changes throughout," said Grudziecki. "I tried different fins and material weights and settled on a Mylar parachute." The preparation was not enough to make Grudzieki too confident. "I don't know if the parachute is going to come out of it," he said just before his first attempt. "It might go into the ground, but whatever." Grudziecki was all smiles when he received his winning trophy at the end of the competition, however. The Pierce the Sky Roc Challenge was Waner's creation. "This is Dahlgren's first rocket launch that I am aware of," he said. "I pitched the idea to the MWR as a base-wide morale design contest that leverages the already prevalent science and design community.The MWR supplemented the concept with administrative and funding support, as well as assisting in gaining permissions from the appropriate authorities on base." Rocket competitions were a big part ofWaner's youth, helping lead him to his current career at MDA. "I started building model rockets in a Kansas 4-H club at the age of 8; my first rocket was as successful as the Alpha III that burned its motor on the pad Friday. I slowly increased the size of the models over time, participating in local and state fairs; in high school I started making high-power rockets (10,000+ feet altitudes) and the interest continues today with blending customized propellants.This was a large inspiration for my aerospace engineering undergraduate degree and application to the Missile Defense Agency where I currently work in the missile development branch, allowing my hobby to synergize very well with my day job." Waner was pleased with his inaugural competition in Dahlgren. "Friday's launch surpassed my expectations based on the limited number of entries in the official contest; it filled the two hour window very well with exciting and memorable flights," he said. "Participants as well as spectators seemed very happy with the event; with some feedback changes and tailoring of the contest I think participation could be doubled fairly easily. Early summer next year could be the next opportunity, but that is still very much on the drawing board." While the prospects for more rocket competitions in Dahlgren are up in the air, Waner thanked all who helped him turn his idea into a reality, including "MWR staff Alice Stanton and Tiffanie Wagner for making this happen, Ben Russell of Tripoli Central Virginia #25 for providing impressive model rocket displays and Rea Manderino for data and score keeping during the launch." In the meantime,Waner recommended that folks interested in rocketry check out the BattlePark in Culpeper, Va. on Nov. 9 and the Red Glare 13 competition in Price, Md. on Nov. 16. For more information, visit http://battlepark.org and www.mdrocketry.org.
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Charles County Government Election Day holiday schedule The Charles County Commissioners wish to remind residents that the offices of Charles County Government and the Tri-County Animal Shelter in Hughesville will be closed on Tuesday, Nov. 6, in observance of Election Day. The Charles County Landfill and Recycling Center off Billingsley Road in Waldorf, and the Pisgah Recycling Center on Route 425 in Pisgah will be open for normal business hours. Every-other-week curbside recycling "blue bin" collection service will not be affected. VanGO will operate on a regular weekday service schedule. The Crain MemorialWelcome Center will be open for normal business hours onTuesday, Nov. 6, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. TheWelcome Center is located at 12480 Crain Highway in Newburg.
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The following schedule changes and closures will also be in effect: * Lackey and North Point High indoor pools will be open from 1 p.m. - 9 p.m. * All Community Centers will be closed. * All park facilities and Elite Gymnastics will be open for normal operating hours. * The Port Tobacco Recreation Center will be open from 6 p.m.-9:30 p.m. For questions about county government holiday closures, contact Ms. Crystal Hunt, Public Information Officer, at 301645-0580 or HuntC@CharlesCounty.org. Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258.
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Friday, October 26, 2012
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Visit DCMilitaryBuyandSell.com today to buy & sell stuff locally in MD/VA/DC. If you do not wish to place your ad yourself, we’ll be glad to place it for you when you call us at 301-670-2543.
Categories for buying and selling include Antiques, Appliances, Cameras & Accessories, Clothing & Accessories, Collectibles, Computers, Crafts, Electronics, Free Stuff, Furniture, Hobbies & Toys, Jewelry & Watches, Lawn & Garden, Music/Instruments, Office Equipment, Pets, Sporting Goods, Tools & Hardware, Yard, Garage & Estate Sales. Excludes Autos, Jobs and other categories not listed above.
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Friday, October 26, 2012
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