Defense
The Magazine of Military Housing, Lodging & Lifestyles
communities january/february 2014
www.phma.com
Maximizing Comfort Simple ways to create a more inviting home environment Special section: Saving energy page 18
Helping residents save money page 30
How to rescue a problem project page 34
CONTENTS FEATURES 26
Maximizing Comfort
30
Ways to Save
32
Breathe Easy
34
Rescuing a Problem Project
36
What’s On the Horizon
40
PHMA Training at USAG Wiesbaden
42
Advocating for Military Families
45
The Spirit of Thanksgiving
NEW! Don’t miss these new
Defense Communities Columns:
n Housing
Spotlights, page 12
n Services
Corner, page 17
SPECIAL SECTION:
Saving Energy 18
20
Careful Consumption
A housing program helps residents conserve and be more responsible with energy usage. By Andrian Basson
The Power to Save Lives
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New York District, constructed a solar power project for the Homeland Security Center of Excellence headquarters in New Jersey. By JoAnne Castagna, Ed.D.
22 S witching to Save A strong partnership leads to residential energy savings success. By Martha Amram
24 S aving
Through Submetering
Improving residents’ awareness of energy consumption can help cut costs. By Daniel Campbell
2 Defense Communities
22
Motorized window coverings can help customize living spaces. By Deirdre Brower and Kim Franz Here’s how housing offices can help residents budget and save money. By Kristin Beauchamp
30
Improve indoor air quality now with these straightforward tips. By Diane Martel These simple steps can help you turn even the most troubled project around. By Todd Williams The First Sergeants Barracks program will continue to adapt to changes in military housing. By Stephanie Casey Leadership and management training will help strengthen military housing in the European Region. By Geert-Jan Hendriks Take a look back at a business plan aimed at eliminating rental deposits. By Thomas Petersen
Each year, a military wife at Fort Bragg single handedly cooks an entire Thanksgiving meal for service members on base. By Sean Hathaway
45
Defense
The Magazine of Military Housing, Lodging & Lifestyles
communities
January/February 2014 u Volume 25, Number 1 u www.phma.com
A Publication of the Professional Housing Management Association
46 C orvias Foundation Expands
Publisher Editor Managing Editor Production Assoc. Art Director Ad Sales Manager
2014 Scholarships
Grant and scholarship funds are available to children and spouses of service members on six Air Force bases. Adapted from a Press Release
48
A MCC Hosts 3rd Annual Elf Day
46
In December of 2013, Atlantic Marine Corps Communities hosted its third annual Elf Day to assist military families in need. Adapted from a Press Release
58 D efense Communities 2013 Article Index
48
PHMA President Del Eulberg offers six pointers on leading during times of change and uncertainty.
Association News A letter from PHMA Executive Director Jon Moore; 2013 Writing Excellence and Best Cover winners announced; follow up from PHMA’s annual golf tournament; and more.
Advertising Sales Manager Alison Bashian Stratton Publishing & Marketing Inc. 800/335-7500; fax 440/232-0398 alisonb@strattonpublishing.com Editorial Office 544 Windspirit Circle, Prescott, AZ 86303 928/771-9826 phmadefensecommunities@ earthlink.net
9
Executive Director Jon R. Moore
From the Expert Frank Kaleba, PE, discusses common misconceptions about algae and moss on roofs.
50 Military Marketplace 52 P HMA Corporate Sustaining Members
56
Advertising Index
Defense
THE MAGAZINE OF MILITARY HOUSING, LODGING & LIFESTYLES
COMMUNITIES JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014
Publishing Offices Stratton Publishing & Marketing Inc. 5285 Shawnee Road, Suite 510 Alexandria, VA 22312-2334 703/914-9200; fax 703/914-6777 defcom@strattonpublishing.com
PHMA Office 154 Fort Evans Road, NE, Leesburg, VA 20176 703/771-1888; fax 703/771-0299 phmaoffice@earthlink.net www.phma.com
DEPARTMENTS 4 President’s Message
6
Debra J. Stratton Birgitt Seymour Lia Dangelico Christine Umbrell Janelle Welch Alison Bashian
www.phma.com
Maximizing COMFORT Simple ways to create a more inviting home environment SPECIAL SECTION: Saving energy page 18
Helping residents save money page 30
How to rescue a problem project page 34
ABOUT THE COVER Motorized window coverings, like these by Mill Distributors, can help create a comfortable, stylish living environment.
Please send your articles for Defense Communities to Birgitt Seymour at phmadefensecommunities@earthlink.net. NEXT EDITORIAL DEADLINE:
May/June – March 20
Defense Communities (ISSN #1088-9000 USPS #004-502) is published bimonthly by Stratton Publishing & Marketing Inc., 5285 Shawnee Road, Suite 510, Alexandria, VA 22312-2334, for the Professional Housing Management Association, 154 Fort Evans Road, NE, Leesburg, VA 20176. PHMA members receive this publication at the annual subscription rate of $30. Nonmembers’ annual subscription rate is $100. Send sub scription requests to Defense Communities at PHMA. Periodi cals postage paid at Leesburg, VA, and additional mailing offices. Defense Communities, ©2014, Professional Housing Management Association. All rights reserved. All contents of this publication are protected by copyright; however, they may be reproduced in whole or in part with prior approval of the publisher. Prior to photocopying items for educational classroom, internal, or personal use, or to request rights to republish an article, please request reprint permission from Editor, Defense Communities, phmadefensecommunities@ earthlink.net. Unless otherwise stated, articles and editorials express the views of their authors and not necessarily those of PHMA, the editors, or the publisher. Announcements and adver tisements in this publication for products and services do not imply the endorsement of PHMA or any of its members or staff. Postmaster: Send subscription/address changes to: Defense Communities, 154 Fort Evans Road, NE, Leesburg, VA 20176 or e-mail: phmaoffice@earthlink.net. Defense Communities magazine is designed to keep those who operate and manage the whole spectrum of military housing and facilities maintenance informed on the industry’s latest technology, products, and services. It provides a forum for members to share lessons learned, news and events, and training opportunities and updates.
january | february 2014 3
P res i d e nt ’s Mes s ag e
Leading During Times of Change 2.0 By Del Eulberg, Major General (Ret.), USAF
T
wo years ago, I dedicated my column to leading through change, but given the environment today and the pace of change, it was time for a quick “refresher.” Although we have been through budget challenges in the past, the current pace of change is unprecedented—as are some of the cuts being discussed. Many of the installation support services we in the military have considered “core” to our way of life are now on the table for possible reductions or alternatives, such as allowing the local community to provide support. During my military career and in the private sector, I found that leaders who understood how to lead their organizations through change were the most successful. Since change is a part of every organization (and a part of life), this fundamental leadership competency seems self-evident. Having said that, I continue to see organization leadership in both the public and private sectors struggle with the fundamental precepts of leading in times of change—and change certainly defines the environment we have all been living in over the past two years in regard to the federal government. Regardless of what decisions are made, a significant key to success will be helping our people deal with the changes. Here are six key tenants of leading through change from my own experience that can be applied today:
1. Stay Committed and Involved. Leaders at every level must stay engaged and informed about the issues, trade-offs, and compromises being considered (even if key decisions are made “above their pay grade” or were made in Washington D.C.). When decisions are made, people want to hear it from their leaders, especially the “why” and “how are we going to move forward?” They want leaders who can listen and care enough about the mission that they hold themselves accountable for leading through the challenges.
2. Establish and Maintain a Sense of Purpose/ Urgency.
result of decisions made at a higher level. The plan should help define the new future and how your organization will get there.
4. Stay Open to Communication. This is the most critical aspect of dealing with change. People must feel that they are informed. Everyone is a stakeholder and the more people understand the “vision” and need for change, the more rapidly change can take place and allow people to adapt. Use every media available to you—newsletters, briefings, articles, video, Twitter, Facebook, emails, and more.
5. Empower People. When addressing significant organizational change, make sure you challenge the status quo as you evaluate what people can do with the right training and resources. Flexibility will be very important given how quickly decisions must be implemented. Lastly, reward your best and brightest but also have the courage to deal head-on with those in the organization who do not perform if reductions become necessary.
6. Make it Last. Leaders must ensure that the changes are institutionalized. If they are not, organizations tend to drift back to the old ways of doing business and will instead try to do more with less. Change at every level must be codified in policies, regulations, metrics, performance plans, training plans, and other areas. As an association, we all will continue to feel the impact of the difficult choices ahead, but it will be up to us to help our people and deal with those changes as they come. The six elements above are not all-inclusive but should be part of your overall strategy. We all need to be involved in shaping the future—as the mission you perform is critical to our war fighters and their families. Leaders at every level must involve their people in meeting these challenges. Given the opportunity and support, people will amaze you with their dedication, initiative, and, surely, emerging results. n God Bless.
In today’s environment, it is not hard for people to understand the national issues at play and why an action is necessary, but they need to hear how the change will impact their jobs and mission. Be prepared.
3. Create a Vision. Leaders must understand and develop the vision/plan that clearly outlines where they want the organization to go as a
4 Defense Communities
Del Eulberg is vice president, Booz Allen Hamilton Inc. General Eulberg retired from the Air Force in 2009 as The Civil Engineer, HQ USAF, where he was responsible for installation support for 166 installations worldwide.
PHMA Hosts Annual Golf Tournament By Shannon Keating
A
nother year has passed and another successful charity golf tournament was enjoyed by all. The National Capital Region (NCR) Chapter #5 sponsored its annual PHMA golf tournament on Friday, October 18, at Ft. Belvoir, Virginia, to raise funds for the Bethesda Fisher Houses. A Fisher House is “a home away from home” for families of patients receiving medical care. Since 1990, the Fisher House Foundation has accommodated more than 180,000 families. The funds raised through the tournament were donated directly to the Fisher Houses at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center located in Bethesda, Maryland. Approximately 40 golfers, including contractors, government employees, and retirees participated in the tournament. There were a variety of prizes awarded to the top three finish-
ing foursomes and another for the foursome with the most spirit. The longest drive and closest to the pin for Left to right: Michael German, Michael Duffy, men and women were given Fran Lizauckas, and Chris Iskra. prizes, and there also were several donated prizes rafwould like to recognize the preceding fled away at the end of the day. Thanks to the golfers that par- sponsors whose generous support and ticipated, as well as our sponsors, the continued dedication to the associatournament raised more than $3,000 tion have made this tournament posto donate to the Bethesda Fisher sible, year after year. Special thanks also goes to the Houses. PHMA and the NCR Chapter many volunteers from PHMA, the NCR, and Old Dominion Chapters Charlie Wood Nate Jio who helped run the registration, scorNCR Chapter #5 CORT ing tables, and course competitions. Old Dominion Dixon Golf If you are interested in becoming Chapter #37 Evo Bistro a golf tournament sponsor for the PHMA Forest City NCR tournament in 2014—date, time, Trade Products Residential and location still to be determined— Corporation Management please contact Shannon Keating at Wilsonart Lowe’s smkeating@earthlink.net or 703/771MHLI 1888 ext. 21. n
Defense THE MAGAZIN E OF MILITARY
HOUSING, LODGING & LIFESTYLES
COMM UNITIE S MAY/JUNE 2013
2013 Writing Excellence Award, Best Cover of the Year Announced
www.phma.com
A Splash
of Fun
Childre adults alik n and e enjo the benefit y s of outdoor play
Special sectio Outdoor spacen: s page 8
By Lia Dangelico
Winning the war on bed bugs page 24
Updated 2013 PCS Guide relea sed page 30
A
fter selecting five finalists for the 2013 Writing Excellence Award, PHMA and the editorial staff had the privilege of reviewing the top articles published in Defense Communities in 2013. All PHMA members in good standing, military, civilian (active and retired), and private-sector members who contributed a bylined article were eligible for consideration. We are proud to announce the 2013 Writing Excellence Award goes
to Suzanne Ownens of Kenyon International for the informative article “Cooking Up Sustainable Appliances” (November/December). Second place goes to Thomas Matzke of VOA Associates, Inc., for “Play, Naturally” (May/June), and third place goes to Ryan Mielke of Lend Lease for “A Sense of Place” (January/February). Thanks to all who submitted wonderful articles to Defense Communities last year!
The 2013 Best Cover of the Year goes to May/June’s playful and colorful cover “A Splash of Fun,” provided by Vortex. We congratulate all the winners and other finalists, and offer our sincere thanks for the continued support of Defense Communities. n Lia Dangelico is managing editor of Defense Communities magazine. Reach her at ldangelico@strattonpublishing.com.
january | february 2014 7
As s ociati on Ne w s
Royal Chapter 63 Hosts Afternoon of Family Fun By Helen Kenyon
Family fun day helpers.
O
n September 21, 2013, the members of the Royal Chapter in the United Kingdom (UK) hosted a family fun afternoon at RAF Lakenheath for the children and families who take advantage of the services offered at the East Anglia Children’s Hospice (EACH). EACH is a local charity that provides services to children who are terminally ill or have life-threatening conditions and is solely funded by the donations it receives. The essential respite and end-of-life care the team offers is astounding to see and is a necessity for those families that utilize the services by the three hospices in East Anglia, UK. The Royal Chapter volunteers, in association with the RAF Lakenheath Fire Department, EOD, and the airfield falconer, provided an afternoon
8 Defense Communities
of fun for more than 40 children and their families, including demonstrations, robots, birds, and a BBQ. It truly was a memorable experience for all involved to experience the courage and fortitude of the children present who deal with so much at such a young age. The feedback from the families involved reminded everyone how PHMA International and its chapters can make a difference to the lives of people in the local community. n Helen Kenyon is the secretary of Royal Chapter 63, RAF Lakenheath. Reach her at helen.kenyon.gb@us.af.mil.
PHMA Announces New Board Members The votes are in! PHMA Board Member elections took place on the PHMA website throughout the month of December 2013. Four PHMA members were selected to serve as new board members. Your newly elected PHMA board members are: Paula Potter-Hayes Darlene McCoy Barry Scribner Steve Joyce PHMA would like to recognize and thank out-going board members Robert Harris and Joyce VanSlyke for their time served as Members-at-Large on the Board of Directors. It also wants to thank those of you that went online to submit a ballot. Your continued participation in and support of PHMA is what keeps the organization alive. n
F rom the Expert
The Roof Garden You Didn’t Plant By Frank Kaleba
T
hose black or brown roof stains we are noticing more often, at least in the Eastern two thirds of the country, are not mold and not soot, but Gloeocapsa Magma (G Magma). Now that it has a name, what is it, does it cause damage, and what can we do about it?
What Is It?
G. Magma is a type of algae, one of those ancient forms of photosynthesizing bacteria that gave the Earth an oxygen atmosphere. It’s a clever beast— growing up as it did in the harsh environment of an evolving Earth. Millions of years ago, it protected itself from the intense UV light of the sun by forming a black sheath around itself and feeding on simple nutrients, like limestone, giving off oxygen in the process. Unfortunately, G Magma is finding the same limestone on modern roofs. Modern fiberglass roof shingles are manufactured in layers, with ceramic flakes for color and UV protection fixed to a mixture of limestone and asphalt (waterproofing) on a fiberglass base mat. This algae reproduces and spreads by producing spores. Carried by the wind or birds, these spores end up on a roof where they find nutrients in the limestone and excellent exposure to moisture and sunlight for photosynthesis. Typically, they start on the shady, northern side of a roof where there is more moisture.
Will It Hurt Your Roof?
There is some controversy on the effect of G Magma. Understandably, roof manufacturers generally line up on the side of no harmful effects, while organizations in the business of cleaning roofs are naturally on the side of the algae causing damage. Keep in mind
that G Magma is algae, not mold. It’s similar to the algae in water that cause the blue-green slimy “bloom.” Algae get their energy from sunlight through photosynthesis but also use minerals—that’s the limestone—for nourishment. One important aspect of this is that algae won’t grow behind your wall because they need sunlight. What’s likely to happen on the roof is that, very slowly, the algae will leach nutrients out of the limestone in the shingles. Since the limestone is used to give weight to the shingle, but not for waterproofing and or UV protection, the algae won’t harm the water protec-
tion of the shingle. The algae use a very small amount of minerals in the limestone, so the algae will not shorten the life of the roof. The only real harm done is in the appearance of the roof. The black or brown stains are unsightly and look like damage has occured. This prompts homeowners to want to get up and clean it.
Moss-Covered Roofs The other common inhabitant of roofs is moss—that fuzzy green, brown, or yellow cover growing in clumps on shingles or shake roofs. Moss is not a friend to your roof. Moss is a plant and
january | february 2014 9
G Magma is often the cause of the black stain seen on neighborhood roofs.
its roots can raise shakes and shingles. The growth areas disturb the smooth runoff of water, and can cause rain dams that can get under the shakes or shingles, resulting in roof leaks.
What Can Be Done About It? Once the G Magma stains appear or moss grows, it’s not easy to get rid of them. Prevention measures include trimming back branches or trees to get more sun on the roof, cleaning debris off the roof,
10 Defense Communities
For more information on algae and moss on roofs, visit these websites: The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association, www.asphaltroofing.org; GAF.com; certainteed.com; and owenscorning.com.
and making sure your gutters and downspouts are clear. The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association published a technical bulletin on algae discoloration and in it the association recommends carefully using a solution of 1 cup of TriSodium Phosphate (TSP) plus 1 cup of bleach plus 5 gallons of water. Another solution the bulletin recommends is a 50:50 mix of bleach and water. After mixing this up, gently and using safety precautions, spread this mixture on the roof surface. The bulletin also cautions against scrubbing the roof surface and using a pressure washer, although lowpressure water could be used. Both of these activities will do more harm more quickly than just leaving the algae alone. Pressure washing also will typically result in voiding your roof material warranty. If you do apply a TSP or bleach mixture or have someone apply it for you be aware of where the runoff is going— TSP and bleach can harm plants and animals. This treatment will change the color temporarily but, unfortunately, this is not a permanent fix to the discoloration. As the algae are not harmful or destructive, we’ll have to learn to appreciate this “natural look” in between treatments. Another possible treatment for both moss and algae involves the attachment of zinc strips to the roof ridge. Washington State University Extension (Community Horticultural Fact Sheet #97) proposes this method as a more permanent solution. It does warn, however, that zinc built-up in the runoff water will, over time, cause harm to plants and animals. The use of zinc strips can be problematic: They’re expensive, have to be installed by experts, require raising a shake or shingle to set and nail the zinc strip in place, and may not provide uniform coverage on the entire roof surface. n Frank Kaleba, PE, is a master code professional and a subject matter expert instructor for training conducted by MHLI. Reach him at fjkaleba@verizon.net.
H OUSING SP OT L IGHTs
Marine Corps Air Station Yuma Yuma, Arizona
M
CAS Yuma is one of the Marine Corps’ premier aviation training bases. With access to 2.8 million acres of bombing and aviation training ranges and superb flying weather, MCAS Yuma supports 80 percent of the Corps’ air-to-ground aviation training. Each year, the air station hosts numerous units and aircraft from U.S. and NATO forces. MCAS Yuma also is the home of the new F-35B Lightning Aircraft. Family Housing at MCAS Yuma is a privatized operation with Lincoln Military Housing as its partner. The Housing inventory includes 821 homes for all ranks, community centers, playgrounds, two pools, and a club house—to name just a few amenities. The Military Housing Office and Lincoln Military Housing are collocated in the housing office and provide service members and their families with a one-stop service.
The Yuma Team scored the highest percentage of customer satisfaction among all medium to large U.S. Marine Corps Installation Housing Operations for the last four consecutive years based on the annual CEL and Associates’ survey of customer satisfaction.
Staff member highlight: We house about one third of our permanent party families on base, the rest, or about 1,700 families, must find accommodations in the local community. The go-to person at the Military Housing Office for a local referral expert is Tara Vanderheyden, housing referral specialist. Tara has been with the Military Housing Office for a little more than five years, and what Tara brought with her (including her husband, a former Marine, and two sons), was her real estate license, her Virginia tenacity, and her down-home personality. During Tara’s in-processing as a new employee, we talked about customer service, how to anticipate the customer’s needs and exceed their expectations. Shortly after
that discussion, there was a constant gleam in her eyes as if she were saying to herself, “I have found the place I have been looking for.” Her actions certainly have shown that. Tara’s father and mother are former Marines, and as Tara grew up she remembers the drive across the country every three years, the new friends she made, and the hatred she had for the packing and unpacking each time it happened. This gave her the experience and invaluable knowledge of the pressures, the trauma, and the unknowns of PCS’ing to a new duty station. Tara performs much more than a housing referral function. She also assists families through the application, entitlement, and wait list process. I recently asked her how it is that she knows exactly what the customer needs almost every time, and she said, “in the time it takes to greet a customer in the reception area and walk the 30 feet back to my office, I know whether they just drove three days across the country to get here or drove three hours from San Diego or Camp Pendleton. If they bring their children into the office, it is almost a certainty that their pets are in their moving truck out in the parking lot.” There are countless times when Tara’s customers leave her office with nothing but praise for what she has just done for them. They send her thank you notes, baked goods, and go as far up the chain of command as possible to make known the excellent service they received from her.
Recent housing initiative
Tara Vanderheyden is a strong asset to the MCAS Yuma housing team.
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Tara’s most recent challenge is the demise of the Automated Housing Referral Network (AHRN). “The boss told us to go ‘old school’ with the approach taken to transition from AHRN to our own method of maintaining referral listings, and so I did.” Tara created a method by which realtors and property managers sent her their listings via email—and includ-
ed a screen shot of their AHRN listing if it applied. She developed a search criteria that worked marvelously and cut the time searching for listings in half. In her own words, “since I already know most all of the realtors and property managers in the area, they are happy to work with me and they don’t spend any more effort than they did with AHRN. I just hope the next web-based system for referrals they come up with is as good or better.” When asked what she likes the most about working with service members and military families, Tara beamed. “They are family to me,” she said. “I have experienced what they are going through: the anxiety, the anticipation, the pleas for help. I can see it in their faces. When I find a home for them and they see the pictures, they just melt. It is like a big weight has just lifted off them. Most of the time I can find them something before they arrive, that’s the best for them, to alleviate the pressure before they get here. That’s when I am happiest doing what I do. And the people that I work with in both the government and our partners are absolutely great. The one thing we all share is our passion for the customer’s needs and providing them more than they expected.” n
Naval Station Mayport Housing Communities Geared Up for Homeport Changes Jacksonville, Florida
A
s all parents know, welcoming a new arrival into the family is exciting and it requires a great deal of mutual preparation and joint planning. The staffs of NS Mayport’s housing communities received extravagant “good news” with the announcements
NS Mayport housing staff was excited to accommodate homeport changes for an amphibious ready group and three coastal patrol crafts.
Homeport changes began in August 2013, when the USS Shamal was welcomed to NS Mayport, and continued in September with the arrivals of the USS Zephyr and the USS Tornado from Norfolk, Virginia, to Jacksonville, Florida. of homeport changes for an amphibious ready group (ARG) and three coastal patrol crafts (PC)—all arriving within a 13-month period! Following the notices, the Housing Service Center (HSC), Unaccompanied Housing (UH), and Privatized Family Housing (PPV Balfour Beatty Communities (BBC)) began the collaborative process to provide suitable, affordable, and safe housing for the sailors and families who now call Jacksonville, Florida, “home.” Homeport changes began in August 2013, when the USS Shamal was welcomed to NS Mayport, and continued in September with the arrivals of the USS Zephyr and the USS Tornado from Norfolk, Virginia, to Jacksonville, Florida. The USS New York, an amphibious transport dock, arrived at Mayport the first week of December 2013, to be followed by the remainder of the ARG, the USS Iwo Jima, and USS Ft. McHenry, in September 2014.
Gail Washburn, Mayport housing program director, is no stranger to supporting homeport changes since her first was for the USS Sterett (CG 31) in the Philippines in 1991. The NS Mayport housing communities have already provided assistance and accommodations in the Northeast Florida area for the crew members of the smaller PCs—75 sailors, half with families and children. Preparations and planning for the ARG are similar but more extensive due to the larger numbers involved, beginning with the USS New York’s crew of 375 sailors. On Sept. 23, 2013, a team consisting of Housing Referral Assistant Rob Nelson, Area Manager for Navy Southeast, BBC Paula Cook, and Community Manager, BBC, NS Mayport Heather Sanders traveled to the Norfolk, Virginia, area to provide the personnel of all commands of the ARG with information regarding the Mayport HSC and BBC services, and
january | february 2014 13
H OUSING SP OT L IGHTs
what each could offer in an effort to relieve some of the stress and pressure associated with moving to a new area. The housing team visited and briefed the crew of the USS New York as well as the command leadership of the USS Iwo Jima and USS Ft. McHenry. With approximately 100 crew members in attendance at the USS New York briefing, the three housing representatives “presented very detailed and precise information to our crew,” according to LTJG Amy Younger, Admin Officer of the USS New York. Balfour Beatty Communities surprised many sailors by offering housing units within days, and a move-in special of free rent for the month of December for those who signed up for housing that week. Details about Balfour Beatty’s “Peace of Mind” program reassured at least one crew member, who was getting married in November and had many questions about spousal assistance during deployment given his pending schedule. Aside from facilitating the housing team’s trip logistics, LTJG Amy Younger gave them a tour of the USS New York, showing them the memorabilia onboard that is a constant reminder of 9/11 and why they serve. She was very excited to show them what the ship means to her and the crew. As the first Navy ship Heather Sanders (BBC) had ever been aboard, she was “honor(ed) to tour such an amazing Navy ship… it was truly moving.” LTJG Younger also has been in contact with the UH staff, Ronnie Barnes and David Hixon. “We arranged barracks for 120 junior sailors,” he said before USS New York’s arrival. “The rooms are already ready! These guys [Barnes and Hixon] are amazing, and we definitely take notice of it. Upon arrival, we will be sending our junior sailors over to check in and get situated in their off-ship accommodations. For many of our sailors, this will be the first time they are living off the ship, and that means the world to them.”
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Excitement continued at NS Mayport leading up to the USS New York’s arrival on Dec. 6, 2013. As a time-honored tradition, members of the Mayport housing community were at the dock to welcome the sailors to their new homeport. LTJG Younger stated that “The partnership between Navy Housing and Balfour (Beatty) Communities appears to be seamless, with the overall goal of meeting the needs of sailors and their families as priority No. 1.” The staffs of the NS Mayport housing communities couldn’t agree more. n
Challenges and Accomplishments of Coast Guard Housing in the Pacific Northwest
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roviding quality housing for Coast Guard members in the Pacific Northwest is challenging. With 267 family homes and 441 unaccompanied personnel beds at more than a dozen different operational units across Oregon and Washington, suc-
cessful housing operations require a dedicated and resourceful Coast Guard housing staff. The characteristic weather, with average annual rainfall exceeding 70 inches and winter storms regularly bringing winds of 70 miles per hour, and location, primarily in small coastal towns far from major support installations and city conveniences, create challenges not seen at housing sites elsewhere in the Coast Guard. Coast Guard Base Seattle leads a dispersed staff of maintenance and administration personnel to make a Coast Guard members’ tour in the Pacific Northwest a memorable and enjoyable one. In Westport, a small town on Washington’s rugged and remote coastline, the crew of Coast Guard Station Grays Harbor has turned 17 1980s-era homes into a modern and highly desirable community. In addition to interior and exterior home renovations, a complete playground overhaul now provides a place for families and children to gather. In Astoria, the Coast Guard’s largest housing site in the Pacific Northwest with 102 homes, plans are underway to construct an additional 24 homes. The additional homes will meet the needs of Coast
Guard personnel surged to Astoria as part of Coast Guard Modernization. With recent streetlight conversions to energy-efficient LED fixtures and the addition of rubber mulch at the playgrounds, the site serves as an example for other units in the Pacific Northwest. Similar efforts are made up and down the coast – in Neah Bay, Ilwaco, Portland, Charleston, and Brookings. Whether they live in Coast Guard housing or on the economy, the housing staff stands ready to assist Coast Guard men and women. Rain or shine, our goal is to help Coast Guard members and their families find a home in the great Northwest! —By Charles W. Anderson and Donny A. Lee. n
Updates from ODUSD(I&E)FIM
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he Office of the Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Installations and Environment (ODUSD(I&E)) within the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) provides oversight of the Department of Defense’s (DoD) military housing program. Housing program responsibilities are divided between two ODUSD(I&E) directorates: the Facilities Investment and Management Directorate, which oversees government-owned and leased housing (family and unaccompanied); and the Facilities Energy and Privatization Directorate (FEP), which oversees privatized housing.
FIM Overview The Facilities Investment & Management Directorate (FIM) is responsible for the stewardship of DoD installations on behalf of the Secretary of Defense. FIM’s installation portfolio includes over 555,000 facilities (i.e., buildings and vertical and linear structures) located at over 5,000 sites worldwide and encom-
Some of the ODUSD(I&E)FIM Team assigned to oversee the Department’s Military Construction and Housing Management Programs.
passing more than 28 million acres. The directorate supports DoD’s global security mission by ensuring that facility assets and services are made available wherever and whenever needed to support operational mission requirements, and are provided in a cost-effective, safe, and environmentally responsible manner. FIM also is the central policy advocate on facilities for the Defense Agencies, DoD Field Activities, and U.S. Special Operations Command, as these DoD components do not report through a military department. FIM oversees a broad scope of facilities-related responsibilities for the Department, to include: • providing policy, procedures, and oversight of DoD facilities from cradle-to-grave (i.e., planning, design, construction, maintenance, replacement, and demolition) • managing the Planning, Programming and Budgeting Execution (PPBE) system for military construction, real property maintenance, military housing, and base operations • analyzing requirements and funding for facility investments, including real property maintenance, and
facility operations • preparing DoD’s annual military construction bill • overseeing host-nation programs for facilities.
Housing FIM provides oversight of the DoD’s worldwide housing inventory of approximately 43,800 governmentowned family housing units, 10,700 leased family housing units, and 316,500 total unaccompanied permanent party bedrooms (as of fiscal year 2013).
Housing Policy As part of FIM’s oversight activities, the directorate is actively engaged in updating the Department’s housing policies. In all cases, the directorate coordinates draft housing policies with the Military Departments before they are finalized for issuance. Such coordination and other issues of common interest to the services are discussed at periodic meetings of the DoD Housing Policy Panel, which is chaired by FIM and includes the housing chiefs from each of the Military Services.
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H OUSING SP OT L IGHTs
At present, the directorate’s largest policy undertaking is an effort to update and combine DoD Housing Management Manual (DoDM 4165.63-M) and the DoD Housing policy (DoD Instruction 4165.63) into a single DoD policy document. The directorate expects to finalize the new policy document in late fiscal year 2014 or early 2015. In addition, FIM will soon issue new guidance to clarify what appropriations, if any, can be used to fund permanent improvements to privatized housing to satisfy mission requirements. And FIM is working with the Military Departments to establish a common housing management system to manage unaccompanied and family housing units to gain efficiencies and cost savings.
General and Flag Officer Quarters In June 2013, the directorate provided a report to Congress on General and Flag Officer Quarters (GFOQs) that focused on leased and high-cost GFOQs. The directorate also conducted follow-on, comprehensive GFOQ program reviews with each of the Military Departments to identify potential cost savings and efficiencies. FIM expects to conduct these GFOQs reviews on an annual basis. Concurrent with these efforts, the directorate is in the process of updating GFOQ housing polices related to entertainment areas and amenities.
Housing Quality The Department is committed to ensuring quality housing for our accompanied and unaccompanied personnel. In recent years, DoD has made sizable investments in military housing to improve living conditions through initiatives such as Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC), global restationing, force structure modernization, and the Navy’s Homeport Ashore program.
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In recent years, DoD has made sizable investments in military housing to improve living conditions through initiatives such as Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC), global restationing, force structure modernization, and the Navy’s Homeport Ashore program. DoD must now focus on maintaining this housing to ensure it remains in good condition. FIM serves as the Department’s advocate for the longterm sustainment of the modernized inventory of military housing.
Homeowner’s Assistance Program FIM oversees and provides policy guidance for DoD’s Homeowner’s Assistance Program (HAP), which was established to assist eligible service member and civilian DoD employee homeowners who have been financially impacted by downturns in real estate markets due to the closure or reduction-in-scope of operations at a military installation. The HAP also benefits service members who have incurred a wound, injury, or illness (with 30 percent or greater disability) in the line of duty, as well as surviving spouses of fallen warriors. Currently, HAP
applications are only being accepted from wounded, ill, or injured service members and surviving spouse applicants. The Department of the Army is DoD’s executive agent for the HAP, and the Headquarters, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers administers the program. Additional information on the HAP can be found at http://hap. usace.army.mil/.
Leadership and Team Michael McAndrew, SES, is the Director of Facilities Investment and Management within the Office of the Secretary of Defense. Immediately prior to assuming his current position in 2005, McAndrew served as the Deputy Director of the Base Realignment and Closure Directorate in ODUSD(I&E), where he was responsible for policy development and oversight of analysis supporting the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) round. He began his DoD civilian employment in 1991, serving as a presidential management intern within the Office of the Secretary of Defense following active duty in the U.S. Air Force. The ODUSD(I&E)FIM Team includes an interdisciplinary staff of program analysts and engineers dedicated to ensuring that the Department’s inventory of 555,000 facilities are mission ready, and that military personnel and their families have access to affordable, quality housing. For more information about FIM and its programs, please visit www. acq.osd.mil/ie/fim/index.shtm. n
Defense Communities will continue to spotlight Housing Offices from the different services. If you would like to have your location spotlighted in a future article, contact Melissa Cooper at mkcooper@earthlink.net to help you get in touch with your service’s point of contact.
serv iceS corner
Navy Housing Trains for the Future By William Pearson, Acting Navy Housing Program Manager
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have to admit that I am happy to see 2013 come to a close as it was a challenging year with sequestration, furloughs, hiring freezes, reduced travel, conference cancellations, limited training, and the unfortunate and tragic Washington Navy Yard shooting incident. Welcome 2014, and goodbye to 2013. As I look beyond the New Year and into the future, I see continued challenges that will require new thinking and delivery. One particular challenge is our ability to maintain a well-trained workforce. The old model of sending students to onsite training will continue to be limited, so we are redesigning our training model and delivery to rely more on technology and virtual applications. One of our greatest strengths in the housing program has been our ability to properly train our staffs and grow future leaders, and we need to maintain that posture with a well-trained workforce. Our Navy Housing goal for today and beyond is to deliver a mix of training opportunities that will continue to include conventional training on site in the classroom and exported to the region or installation, and to increase our delivery to the desktop to satisfy the requirement but also to align with today’s fiscal constraints. Our housing program, in collaboration with CNIC Fleet and Family Readiness, is applying creative methods in the development of our training model and curriculum. In order to continue our role of delivering a quality education to produce a high-
ly trained housing workforce with the knowledge and skills to contribute to operational readiness, we had to rethink our modality for course delivery. The first in the series of webbased, on-demand, self-paced courses that we are developing are projected to be available for both Family Housing (FH) and Unaccompanied Housing (UH) professionals across the enterprise in early spring 2014. (Full course descriptions, intended audiences, and pre-requisites for available classes can be viewed on eMH site at www.emh.housing.navy.mil. Click on the HALTS Module under the Housing Training section.) Taking online training a step further, we’ve begun development of virtual instructor-led (VILT) courses. VILT offers two-way, person-toperson interaction in real time, and links aspects of instructor-led training via live web chats with aspects of eLearning, like social media discussions and interactive videos. The Navy Housing Learning Center (HLC) provides support for VILT development and delivery, including virtual room design in DCO, converting classroom training to virtual training, and technical support during training. We recognize the challenges of
developing and delivering standard housing training to a global enterprise. It’s our goal to continue to provide the opportunities our housing professionals need to excel in the performance of their jobs and deliver award-winning service to their customers—that includes the fleet, fighter, and family. n Look for Services Corner articles from OSD and service housing leadership in future issues of Defense Communities. If you have an idea for a Services Corner article, contact Melissa Cooper at mkcooper@earthlink.net to help you get in touch with your service's point of contact.
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| FEAT U R E |
Maximizing Comfort The practical and lifestyle benefits of motorized window coverings 26  Defense Communities
By Kim Franz and Deirdre Brower
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indow coverings are usually installed to solve a problem, such as the need for privacy or to block sun at a particular time of day. Window coverings also provide an easy way to give an interior space a fresh new look when updating décor or when moving into a new home. What people often overlook is the type of lifestyle benefits that can be experienced with motorized window coverings. Motorized window coverings are so easy to use that people typically use them more frequently and, therefore, maximize the lifestyle benefits that they offer. Tasks such as adjusting those hard-to-reach window coverings, controlling glare, or protecting valuable furnishings from damaging UV rays can now simplified. At the touch of a button, window coverings can be instantly adjusted to changing activities or to the varying sun conditions to create both a comfortable and energy-efficient environment. Additionally, the fact that they’re motorized offers options that simply aren’t available with manual shades, such as controlling them with timers, sun sensors, or even integrating your motorized shades with home control systems to enhance the user experience. They also provide convenient access for individuals who use wheelchairs or have limited mobility.
Adjusting large, tall, or heavy window coverings isn’t easy. Typically, you have to reach behind furniture or above a kitchen counter and, in some installations, such as skylights or high foyers, a ladder would be required. What commonly happens in this situation is that the window covering isn’t adjusted and is left in the closed or down position and the users don’t experience the benefits that window coverings are meant to offer. Motorization provides a safe alternative by providing push-button control with a hand-held remote or a battery-powered wall switch. Most motorization options offered by Mill Distributors also feature Radio Technology Somfy (RTS), which allows you to control window coverings individually or as a group, using the same control. So in the morning, you can enter your living room and press a button and have all or some motorized shades open or close, depending on your preference. In the evening, simply press a button and all of your shades will close, eliminating the need to go from room to room manually adjusting each shade.
Boosting Energy Efficiency Beyond just being convenient, motorized shades actually create a more energy-efficient and comfortable interior space. january | february 2014 27
| FEAT U R E |
Glare and UV damage are common issues with natural light and motorized shades provide an easy solution. Users no longer have to interrupt their activity to adjust their shades, but simply press a button to achieve their preferred ambiance. Additionally, available sensors allow users to experience the benefits of motorization. Sensors activate shades based on temperature or sun sensitivity thresholds so that shades lower/ close automatically when the sun is brightest to minimize fading and damage to furnishings, floors, and wall coverings. At the same time, sensors can be used to automatically open/ raise shades during the times of the day when natural light and warmth would be preferred. By automating window coverings, users can minimize heat gain in warmer climates and heat loss in cooler climates to achieve a comfortable interior while reducing consumption of traditional energy sources. Timers also are available to control motorized shades so that you can enjoy your home with little effort. This option allows you to predetermine when you want your shades to open and close based on the time, such as opening at 7 a.m. automatically to enjoy the morning sun and automatically closing in the evening when you prefer additional privacy. This feature also provides added security to an unoccupied home by creating a “lived-in” look and simulating occupancy even while homeowners are away on vacation.
Stylish Options
One of the best features of motorized window coverings is that they can be incorporated into the design of your home without affecting your personal style.
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One of the best features of motorized window coverings is that they can be incorporated into the design of your home without affecting your personal style. Options are available to motorize most every window covering type and fabric, including roller/solar shades, horizontal blinds, sheer horizontals, woven woods, pleated/cellular shades, and even draperies. The systems also have been designed with aesthetics in mind so you can enjoy the beauty and design of your window coverings with a clean installation and quiet motor performance. And since they’re motorized, you can virtually eliminate the need for unsightly lift cords that can detract from the overall look of window covering. This offers the added benefit of creating a safer cordless environment for children and pets. Motorization also extends the life of window coverings and draperies by reducing the wear and tear associated with manual operation and allowing you to enjoy your window coverings for many years. Motorized window coverings also are much more accessible than most people think and are relatively affordable. There is wide array of options and, in many cases, an electrician isn’t required. Many systems are battery-powered and use standard lithium batteries, and there are even solar-powered systems available. For more complex installations, plug-in or line voltage is required. n Kim Franz is director of marketing at Mill Distributors. Reach her at kfranz@milldist.com. Deirdre Brower is product marketing manager at Somfy Systems, Inc. Reach her at deirdre.brower@somfy.com.
Advertising Index Company
Contact
Phone
Web Site
Coit Cleaning & Restoration
Shawn Aghababian
800/367-2648
www.coit.com
Corvias Group
Amanda Filipowski
401/228-2800
www.corvias.com
1
Davey Commercial Ground Mgmnt.
Don Joy
330/673-9515 x 8318
www.davey.com
33
MilitaryByOwner Advertising
Dave Gran
540/446-4676
www.MilitaryByOwner.com
53
Salsbury Industries
Ricardo Alva
323/846-6700
www.mailboxes.com
38
Speed Queen/Alliance Laundry
Kate Holmes
920/748-1671
www.speedqueen.com
31
The Refinishing Touch
Mario Insenga
770/642-4169
www.therefinishingtouch.com
35
Universal Storage Containers
Rod Bolls, Vice President
720/263-5687
www.universalstoragecontainers.com
C2
University Loft Company
James Jannetides
317/631-5433
www.universityloft.com
C4
Wells Fargo Home Mortgage
Customer Service
800/644-8083
www.wellsfargo.com
C3
Yardi Systems, Inc.
Spencer Stewart
800/866-1144
www.yardi.com
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