Home Blog Page 9

California governor announces landmark agreement to raise minimum wage statewide

By
Aerotech News
-
0

Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. joined legislators and labor leaders March 28 to announce a landmark agreement that makes California the first state in the nation to commit to raising the minimum wage to $15 per hour statewide.

The Governor was joined at the announcement by Senate President pro Tempore Kevin de León; California Labor Federation president Kathryn Lybarger; SEIU United Long Term Care Workers’ Union president Laphonza Butler; Burger King employee Holly Dias; Senator Mark Leno; California Labor and Workforce Development Agency secretary David Lanier; United Domestic Workers of America executive director Doug Moore; Teamsters Union International vice president Rome Aloise; and United Healthcare Workers West executive board member Georgette Bradford.

“California is proving once again that it can get things done and help people get ahead,” said Governor Brown. “This plan raises the minimum wage in a careful and responsible way and provides some flexibility if economic and budgetary conditions change.”

Under the plan, minimum wage will rise to $10.50 per hour on January 1, 2017 for businesses with 26 or more employees, and then rises each year until reaching $15 per hour in 2022. This plan also recognizes the contributions of small businesses – those with 25 or fewer employees – to California’s economy and allows additional time for these employers to phase in the increases.

The purpose of the plan is to increase the minimum wage over time, consistent with economic expansion, while providing safety valves – known as “off-ramps” – to pause wage hikes if negative economic or budgetary conditions emerge. The Governor can act by September 1 of each year to pause the next year’s wage increase for one year if there is a forecasted budget deficit (of more than one percent of annual revenue) or poor economic conditions (negative job growth and retail sales).

Once the minimum wage reaches $15 per hour for all businesses, wages could then be increased each year up to 3.5 percent (rounded to the nearest 10 cents) for inflation as measured by the national Consumer Price Index.

This plan also phases in sick leave for In-Home Supportive Services workers starting in July 2018.

Governor Brown signed AB 10 in September 2013 to raise California’s minimum wage 25 percent, from $8 to $10 per hour, effective January 1, 2016. There are approximately 7 million hourly workers in California, of which about 2.2 million earn the minimum wage.

Additional information on the minimum wage deal can be found at www.gov.ca.gov

Employer Flight

By
Aerotech News
-
0

U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Joseph Dangidang

Crew members from 336 ARS pose for a group photo with civilian employers following an in-flight refueling demonstration of a C-17 Globemaster III from aboard a KC-135 Stratotanker during an Employer Appreciation Fight at March Air Reserve Base, March 19. Employer Appreciation Fights are a great opportunity for civilian employers to get a chance to experience some of the roles their employees and March ARB play in support of national defense.

News Briefs 03/25/2016

By
Aerotech News
-
0

VOLUNTEER VICTIM ADVOCATES NEEDED

The SAPR Program March ARB is looking for a select group of individuals to act as volunteer victim advocates with the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program, March ARB. Basic requirements include: Formal application, approval from the volunteers’ commander and 40 hours of Victim Advocate training from an Air Force approved course. Applicants will then be required to apply for certification with the National Organization of Victim Advocates (NOVA). There will be a 40-hour course offered at March ARB on May 2. Applicants to the program must have clean background check, possess excellent communication skills, be of outstanding character and judgment and willing to respond to incidents of a very personal nature with great discretion while adhering to Air Force protocol in respect to the SAPR program. Please contact the SAPR office March ARB at 951-655-4551 or email at frank.pavone@us.af.mil

COMMUNITY 5K/10K RUN TO PREVENT VETERAN HOMELESSNESS

Vets 4 Veterans is holding the 1st Operation Restart 5K/10K Run/Walk and Mini Patriot Mile to support veterans and prevent homelessness in the veteran community. Vets 4 Veterans, a local 501(c)3 organization, is in its 7th year of supporting veterans through scholarships, immediate needs assistance and the planning of a temporary housing solution for at-risk veterans and their families. The homeless veteran population in Los Angeles County has risen by 6% over last year.  The warriors who defend our country deserve access to all programs that may assist them to live better. Veterans, Veteran Supporters, Families, Children, Social Welfare Groups, Sports Trainers, Runners, Joggers, Military, 1st Responders and anyone else who wants to participate is invited. Operation Restart 5K/10K Run Walk and Mini Patriot Mile will be held on Saturday, April 2, 2016 from 7 to 11 a.m. at the Antelope Valley Mall, 1233 Rancho Vista Blvd, Palmdale, California 93551. Registration and the starting line is in the Sears parking area. Online registration is at www.avvets4veterans.org. For info, contact Michael Campbell at 714-919-6709 or michael.campbell@avvets4veterans.org.

APRIL MONTH OF MILITARY CHILD EVENT

Announcing the 3rd Annual April, Month of the Military Child event in Los Angeles on Sunday, April 17 from 1:30 – 4:00 p.m. This event held at the Los Angeles Public Library – Downtown, is a collaborative effort by members of the Los Angeles Veterans Collaborative – Families & Children Working Group. There will be activities and goodies for children up to age 12 years, but all are welcome to attend. Share this invitation with your military-connected families. Last year they hosted children from throughout the Southern California area. Complete the online registration to assist with planning for this event. Children registered by March 4 will receive a certificate from the Office of Mayor Eric Garcetti. Registration closes on April 10th. For more information or to register, contact Deborah J. Hayes, dejhayesconsulting@gmail.com. You may also donate items in support of this event, (children’s books, gift cards, small toys, etc.)

RETIREE ACTIVITIES OFFICE NEEDS VOLUNTEERS

The March Retiree Activities Office is in need of volunteers who can donate just three hours of their time weekly to help fellow retirees and their families. To volunteer or for more information, call 951-655-4077/4079.

JOINT OFFICER PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT SEMINAR

The Defense Education Forum (DEF) in conjunction with the Reserve Officers Association Department of the Golden West with host a Joint Officer Professional Development Seminar (JOPDS) April 22-24, 2016 at the Holiday Inn Bayside, San Diego. The Department Convention is being held concurrently.

The JOPDS is one of the premier professional development opportunities available to our younger officers and is one of the only professional development seminars to emphasize joint service participation. To date, more than a thousand young officers from all services have benefited from these ROA DEF events.

The ROA Chapter #57, at March ARB, is part of The San Diego Chapter which is made up of Reserve Officers of the United States Armed Services. Their geographical area encompasses the greater San Diego area from the Mexican border north to the Orange County and Riverside County areas, and from the Pacific Ocean east to include Imperial County. Membership is open to any federally commissioned officer, warrant officer, of the National Guard, Reserve, Active Component, Former officers or Retired officers and their spouses and recently includes non-commissioned officers. The March ROA chapter Junior Officer Liaison is Capt. Lombardo at 951-655-5722.

Find The ROA Department of the Golden West, which covers California and Nevada, at roa.org/ca.

ENLISTED DEVELOPMENTAL EDUCATION BOARD

Air Reserve Personnel Center officials will release the Invitation to Apply and open the application cycle for the annual Enlisted Developmental Education Board Friday, Feb. 5. The EDEB will convene May 16 at HQ ARPC. All applications are due to ARPC no later than April 15, 4:30 p.m. MT. Call the Total Force Service Center at DSN 665-0102 or 210-565-0102 for questions or further information.

MARCH FIELD AIRFEST ON WEB/SOCIAL MEDIA

The March Field AirFest Website is now live at http://marchfieldairfest.marchfss.com. Also, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for AirFest updates. Find us on Facebook at March Field AirFest; on Instagram @MarchFieldAirFest; on Twitter @MarchAirFest. Join the conversations!!

DESERVING AIRMAN COMMISSIONING BOARD TO CONVENE

Great News! If you are interested in becoming an Air Force Reserve officer at Team March, the next Deserving Airman Commissioning Board will convene on May 21-22, 2016. If you are interested, and meet the qualifications located on the wing INFO drive – X:\MarchBaseInfo, in the DACB pamphlet, please have your completed commissioning packages submitted to the 452 FSS/FSMPD (Career Development) office not later than close of business, Monday, May 2, 2016. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to call career development at 951-655-3113.

EDUCATION & TRAINING OFFICE TO PROVIDE MASS BRIEFINGS

Beginning in December, during the Unit Training Assemblies, the March Education and Training office will conduct ongoing, mass briefings for any Tuition Assistance, GI Bill and Community College of the Air Force (CCAF) inquiries. Their schedule is as follows:

CCAF  briefing:

UTA Sundays from 10 to 10:30 a.m. in Bldg. 441, Rm. 12

Tuition Assistance briefing:

UTA Sundays from 1 to 1:45 p.m. in Bldg. 441, Rm. 12

GI Bill briefing:

UTA Sundays from 2 to 22:45 p.m. in Bldg. 441, Rm. 12

In-processing (technical school):

Monday – Friday from 2 – 3 p.m. in Bldg. 441, main office

For more information, contact Master Sgt. Brown at 951-655-4442.

SARC HOSTS FREE MIND BODY RESILIENCY CLASSES

Are you interested in learning more about the Mind and Body connection and how this can promote better overall health? Then come join the interactive and informational series of one-hour classes based on the Benson-Henry Institute for Mind Body Medicine’s Resilient Warrior. Classes are scheduled on the A and B Unit Training Assemblies through September 2016. Topics for the six-part series include

– Stress Reactions and Relaxation Response

– Getting Good Sleep

– Mindfulness and a Positive State of Mind

– Yin and Yang of Resiliency

– Yoga & Journaling

– Social Connections & Communication

Time and Location:

UTA Sundays, 11 a.m. – noon

Bldg. 470, room 205   

Contact frank.pavone@us.af.mil or 655-4551 for more information. No reservation required.

REGISTER FOR YELLOW RIBBON EVENTS

Upcoming dates for Yellow Ribbon events are Apr. 22-24, May 20-22, Jun 17-19. For more formation, contact 1st Lt. Shelley Lawrence, your 452nd Air Mobility Wing Yellow Ribbon representative, for details at 951-655-4615.

BACK STREET GRILL HOURS

Hours of operation for the newly renovated Back Street Grill are Monday – Friday for breakfast from 6:30 to 10 a.m., for lunch from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.; UTA weekends for breakfast (Sat & Sun) from 5:30 to 9 a.m., for lunch (Sat & Sun) from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., for dinner (Sat only) from 4 to 8 p.m. Additionally, the Back Street Grill proudly serves Starbucks Monday – Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and UTAs (Sat & Sun) from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m.

GRILL NIGHT AT SALLY’S ALLEY

Every Wednesday night starting at 4 p.m., Sally’s Alley is open for business with Grill Night. For more information, call them at 951-653-2121.

FITNESS CENTER NEWS

The March Fitness Center has received the Wellbeats Virtual Group Fitness Kiosk. This kiosk allows members to participate in virtual fitness classes.

Daily WellBeats Fitness Schedule is:

Mondays: 10:30 a.m. – REV (spin); 12:15 p.m. – Yoga

Tuesdays: 12:15 p.m. –  Fit for Duty; 4:00 p.m. – REV

Wednesdays: 6 a.m. – Yoga/Pilates; 11 a.m. – V.I.B.E./Toning; 12:15 p.m. – REV

Thursdays: 11 a.m. – REV; 12:45 p.m. – Fit for Duty

Fridays: 11 a.m. – Core; 11:15 a.m. Pilates

Wellbeats offers many more classes available at the members’ request. 

FIP (Fitness Improvement classes) available through our Wellbeats Kiosk.

Additional opportunities for fitness:

Tuesday, 11 a.m. and Thursday, 12:15 p.m. – Battle ropes training

Monday, 10:30 a.m. and Wednesday, 11:30 a.m. – TRX

A & B UTA Saturdays, 7 a.m. – Wellbeats Fit for Duty

A & B UTA Sundays, 7 a.m. – Wellbeats REV

A UTA Saturdays, 5 p.m. – Virtual Strength “Fit for Duty”

B UTA, 5 – 7 p.m. – Pick-up basketball

Coming in 2016: Inter-Services Golf Tournament, Team Cohesion Challenge, Armed Forces 5K Run.

Call the Fitness & Sports center at 951-655-2292 to sign up or for more information on these programs.

Class descriptions:

Circuit Training – a high intensity interval training class that integrated cardio and muscular endurance exercises

Core – various classes from our WellBeats system that focus entirely on working out your core

Fit for Duty – a high-energy, extreme, conditioning workout led by service members with expertise in fitness training

Functional Fitness – A type of high-intensity interval training combining cardio and weight training into one short but intense class with mobility drills, mountain climbers, lunges, push-up, kettlebells, goblet squats duck walk, run.

Fusion – an integration of yoga and Pilates exercises with attention to breath, form, flow and body balance.

Kinetics – a total body, multi-activity class that includes sports-style cardio intervals with resistance training circuits and muscle isolation work

REV – an indoor cycling class that combines sprints, climbs, intervals, drills, terrain, and technique training

Stomp – a total body, cardio-driven step class as it was originally meant to be taught

TKO – a blend of martial arts disciplines that includes a combination of punches, kicks, and strikes

TRX – introductory class that teaches basic exercises to strengthen core and transition into more advanced techniques on the TRX suspension system

V.I.B.E. – multi-dimensional dance exercises ranging from Latin to urban, hip-hop and more

Zumba/Zumbathon – well-known dancing class featuring exotic rhythms set to high-energy Latin and international beats (Zumbathon is a two-hour Zumba class in which participants can win prizes.)

             OUTDOOR REC UPCOMING 2016 TRIPS

The outdoor recreation division has scheduled trips for target audiences of Single Airmen (SAP), Pre/Post-Deployers (RecOn) and Deployed-affected family members (DP). There is special pricing for these members (SAP/RECON/DP column). All others (military/DOD ID card holders and their guests) are invited on a space-available basis at the higher, per-person price listed in the EOE column. Reservations are on a first-come, first-served basis, and can be made by contacting ODR at 951-655-2816.
DATE – TRIP SAP/RECON/DP EOE
Mar. 26 – Skiing/Boarding SAP – $20 $64
Apr. 9 – Hollywood Hills Horseback Riding SAP – $15 $75
Apr. 21-23 – Black Canyon Canoe Trip SAP – $35 $112
May 13-15 – Whitewater Rafting DE – $30 $130
May 28 – Deep Sea Fishing SAP- $25 $102
Jun. 10-12 – Spelunking SAP – $40 $110
Jun. 18 – Skydiving SAP – $40 $199
Jul. 16 – Couples Ballooning RecOn/DE – $30 $148
Jul. 30 – La Jolla Kayaking RecOn/DE – $15 $70
Aug. 13 – Catalina Adventure RecOn/DE – $40 $150
Aug. 27 – Bridge to Nowhere Bungee Jumping SAP – $20 $85
Sep. 3 – Skydiving RecOn/DE – $40 $199
SEP. 3 – Zipline/segway tour SAP – $40 $200
Sep. 17 – Deep Sea Fishing RecOn/DE – $25 $102
Sep. 24 – Tandem Hang Gliding RecOn/DE – $50 $199

OUTDOOR REC EQUIPMENT RENTALS

Outdoor Recreation has a variety of equipment for rent such as camping gear, water sports equipment, bicycles, and trailers to carry it all! Special orders for Callaway, Odyssey, Cleveland, Never Compromise, Nike, Bag Boy, Sun Mountain and Staff golf equipment are also available. Download the full equipment rental price list at MarchFSS.com, call 951-655-2816 or come on by for more information.

 

MARCH TICKETS & TOURS

Amusement Park Specials

Castle Park: $16 per person includes unlimited rides, water park access, miniature golf and the new Sky Rider.

Disney 3-Day Park Hopper military special: $140 per person (adult/child)

Discount Movie Tickets

Available for only $10 each and valid for Regal Cinemas, United Artists Theatres and Edwards Cinemas.

Hotel Discounts

Receive 10% off any Best Western and 15% off any Choice Hotel

Visit the Tickets & Tours page at MarchFSS.com and download the Discount Ticket Price List for a full list of discounts tickets prices, hotel discounts and special promotions. Call Tickets & Tours at 951-655-4123 for more information.

 

SAPR event recognizes importance of wingmen all year #notjustApril

By
Aerotech News
-
0
U.S. Air Force photo/Scott M. Ash

WASHINGTON (AFNS) — Senior leaders kicked off the Air Force’s Sexual Assault Prevention and Response #notjustApril campaign March 17 during an event at the Pentagon.

The secretary, chief of staff and chief master sgt. of the Air Force joined other Airmen to read testimonies from sexual assault survivors and discussed Airmen’s roles in supporting sexual assault survivors and preventing this crime.

The event promoting the #notjustApril campaign came in front of the Defense Department’s official recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month in April to highlight the importance of Airmen’s engagement all year.

Using the Air Force core values as the foundation for her comments, Air Force Secretary Deborah Lee James said integrity is imperative in this issue and the Air Force needs to look in the mirror and accept the fact that there is a problem.

“I think it’s getting better,” James said. “However, we need to look at ourselves and our shortcomings and identify ways we can continue to improve.”

James went on to say that Airmen’s ‘service before self’ is not only answering the nation’s call to serve, but also the call to serve each other.

“Survivors of sexual assault deserve the support of the institutional Air Force, but they also deserve the support of their peers and their wingmen,” James said. “Wingmen play a vital role in building and restoring units’ climate and in supporting victims in their recovery.”

James challenged leaders, from commander to frontline supervisors, to demonstrate excellence by setting a professional atmosphere, enforcing the standards of conduct, and being prepared to walk the walk.

Chief of Staff Gen. Mark A. Welsh III spoke about members of one Air Force – active duty, Air National Guard, Air Force Reserve, officer, enlisted and civilian Airmen – who stand side-by-side and shoulder-to-shoulder to provide whatever is needed to prevent sexual assault.

“We have lots of numbers in the business, as we track different things,” Welsh said. “I would offer to you that the only number that really matters is one. One victim, one criminal, one event, one life shattered, one family shattered, one unit forever affected … now multiply that one person by all the lives that they touch and then multiply that number by 2,400. That’s the impact.”

Welsh also said that prevention starts with averting one sexual assault, and it must continue one by one until all are stopped.

“It’s about one and the only number more significant than that one is zero,” Welsh said. “When we get there, we will celebrate and we will work harder the next day to make sure it stays there.”

Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force James A. Cody said that in his time as the highest ranking enlisted member in the Air Force, he has evolved how he looks at sexual assault prevention after hearing a friend’s story.

His friend’s daughter was excited about joining the Air Force, but as she was getting ready to leave home, she told her father she was afraid of being raped. When her father asked why, she confided she had been sexually assaulted at a high school party after having a drink. Despite their great relationship, she had been ashamed to tell her father before because he had warned her not to drink and how to dress, and she blamed herself.

That’s when Cody realized he had often said the same things to his daughter.

“I wasn’t helping her be any safer,” Cody said. “I was really just building up an environment where if something happened she couldn’t feel she could come to me because I had already told her it was her fault every single time I watched her walk out that door.”

Cody said the experience changed his dialogue with his daughter and helped him better understand prevention. They began talking about the wingmen she was going out with and who would have her back.

“You are going to go out, you are going to experience life,” Cody said. “Our Airmen have to trust each other enough so they know we will always be there for each other. We’re never ever going to blame them for something horrific that’s happening. We are just going to be there to try and help them. We can never rewind the clock, but we can be there to support them.”

Women’s History Month Spotlight: Maintainer reflects on decades of service

By
Aerotech News
-
0
U.S. Air Force photo/Maj. Marnee A.C. Losurdo

KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. — In 1979, Margaret Thatcher was elected as the United Kingdom’s prime minister and 63 Americans were taken hostage in the American Embassy in Tehran, Iran. It was the year Michael Jackson released his first solo album “Off the Wall,” ESPN launched on cable television, a Sony Walkman cost $200, and a gallon of gas cost $0.86.

This is also the year that Master Sgt. Kathy Wheelock joined the Air Force.

March is Women’s History Month and the theme this year is “Working to Form a More Perfect Union: Honoring Women in Public Service and Government.” Wheelock is one of many women in the 403rd Wing and Air Force Reserve accomplishing the mission daily, setting the example through their service.

When Wheelock joined the Air Force, she told her recruiter she wanted to do something fun and exciting.

“And, that’s how I got into law enforcement,” she said.

According to the Air Force Personnel Center, 19 percent of the Air Force is comprised of women. When Wheelock served in active duty during 1980s that figure was around 11 percent, according to a 1982 Military Manpower Task Force report.

“It was a challenge to enter a nearly-all male career field,” she said. “It was hard to break into a man’s world of law enforcement, so I had to prove myself; both as a female military member and as a law enforcement specialist.”

She proved she could hold her own when it came to some ‘interesting’ situations, and she became known to be ‘good cop.’

During her seven years of active duty service, Wheelock married a fellow law enforcement member, Keith Wheelock assigned to the K-9 section.

The couple was stationed at Ramstein Air Force Base, Germany, with two children and conflicting work schedules, she decided to separate from active duty in 1986.

“We were both worried about not getting a joint spouse assignment,” she said. “I hated leaving the service, but had to do what was right for my family.”

In 1995 her husband was stationed at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, as a K-9 law enforcement specialist and retired as a master sergeant in 2003.

“I missed serving; I loved wearing the uniform, and being part of the Air Force team,” said Wheelock. “So, I was glad to get to come back and serve in the Air Force Reserve.”

She joined the 403rd Maintenance Group in 1997, serving as an information manager in the commander’s support staff. She was hired as an Air Reserve Technician in 2002, a full-time civil service employee who is required to serve as an Air Force reservist in the same unit. She quickly became the NCOIC of the commander support staff.

In 2010 she had an opportunity to progress in her career, so she retrained as an engine mechanic and was hired as an ART in the 403rd Propulsion Flight as the engine manager in the 403rd Maintenance Squadron.

She is responsible for tracking all the inspections for the C-130J Super Hercules engines and propellers on 20 aircraft assigned to the 403rd Wing, which entails 91 propellers and 83 engines. She tracks 1,760 serial controlled items that consist of more than 3,500 inspections.

The aircraft has inspections that are due hourly, monthly and annually. She coordinates with the production superintendents, plans and scheduling personnel, and her boss, Senior Master Sgt. Eric H. Johnson III, to ensure the aircraft are available for their mission at all times.

Johnson, the 403rd Propulsion Flight chief, said the 403 MXG is lucky to have Wheelock.

The flight benefits from her experience as a security forces member, NCOIC of the Command Support Staff, and as an ART, he said.

“If Kathy can’t figure it out she normally can point you in the right direction,” Johnson said. “The word(s) no and never’ are not in her vocabulary; it’s always yes, and let’s figure out a way to do it.”

On a daily basis Wheelock spends most of her time tracking, managing and scheduling inspections, and other non-maintenance managerial duties that keep the unit running. However, she added, “If I had to do some wrench-turning, I could do that also since I am a fully qualified mechanic.”

Wheelock loves her job and is proud to serve, she said, adding that one of her biggest career highlights was deploying in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom and Joint Task Force Horn of Africa in 2009.

She wants her unit members to realize the important role they play in the accomplishing the mission, she said.

“Sometimes, some people in maintenance get caught up in the day-to-day tasks and don’t see how we make a difference. I remind them that what they do is important to the big picture. I tell the mechanics to tell people I am a C-130J mechanic, and that the aircraft out there is my office.”

Like many people, she has encountered challenges throughout her career, but, she said it’s a good career option for women.

“It’s seems like the military is still a man’s world, so as women we need to take this challenge seriously, and we need to take pride in what we do and prove ourselves as valuable military members, because it is a rewarding career,” she said.

After 25 years, Wheelock has risen through the ranks and is a senior NCO and a leader in her group. She has earned several awards and decorations, various levels of Air Force recognition, and associates degrees in Information Resources Management and Aircraft Maintenance Technology from the Community College of the Air Force.

She attributes her success to her family (her father, an Air Force retiree and her two brothers, Army retirees), and followed in their paths.

“They were supportive of me joining the military,” she said.

Her husband, their three children and two grandchildren are also very supportive of her career.

“Just the other day I thanked them for supporting me because some children are embarrassed that their mother wears ‘combat boots,’” she said, joking. In a serious tone, she added, “My husband and children are proud of me and what I have accomplished.”

Since 1979, some things have changed. Michael Jackson and Margaret Thatcher have passed away, ESPN is still on cable, gas is about $1.50, for now, not many people use a Walkman today, unless they really want to, and all combat jobs are now open to women. Some things have not changed. The U.S. Air Force remains ready to combat its enemies foreign and domestic, and Wheelock is still here to serve her country and mentor the next generation of Airmen.

AF Reserve Chief testifies on Reserve posture

By
Aerotech News
-
0
U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Kat Justen

Lt. Gen. James F. Jackson, chief of the Air Force Reserve and commander of Air Force Reserve Command, testified before the Senate Appropriations Sub-Committee for Defense alongside other Reserve chiefs and Guard directors, March 16.

During the hearing, Jackson emphasized the importance of adapting to a rapidly changing security environment.

“We must maintain a reserve force capable of seamlessly supporting the joint fight while keeping our eye to the future,” said Jackson.

With more than 69,000 Reserve Airmen, the Air Force Reserve defends our nation every day said Jackson. “As we sit here today, over 5,000 Air Force reservists are supporting combatant commanders around the globe,” he said.

Jackson highlighted the Reserve’s role in ushering the first F-35s at Hill Air Force Base, Utah, the first KC-46 reserve unit bed down at Seymour Johnson AFB, N.C., the recruitment of 80 Reserve Officer Training Corps cadets and a pilot cyber-accessions program.

Sen. Roy Blunt (R-Mo.) asked Jackson to explain how the Reserve brings in experienced civilian cyber professionals to work in a cyber unit that can be utilized as needed.

“The Reserve has currently 13 cyber organizations and we are planning to add four more. The hiring for cyber traditional reservists has been very successful,” said Jackson.

“However, we could use assistance from the committee to implement statutory changes that will allow us to grade the full-time air reserve technician positions at the same levels as their civilian counterparts. In addition, and with approval from our leadership, we will bring in cyber professionals already trained and give them constructive credit; so they do not have to take the first three years to build an Airman who can do that type of mission,” said Jackson.

Jackson described his vision for building the future force and developing the team; both areas rely on manpower and require a continued focus on the recruitment, retention and development of our Citizen Airmen.

“We increased the number of command opportunities across components to help develop true Total Force leaders,” said Jackson. “However, recruiting and retaining Airmen with the right training and requisite skill sets alone are not enough.”

Jackson reiterated the need to modernize and recapitalize weapon systems. “The Air Force Reserve must continue to modernize our legacy systems, such as the F-16, KC-135 and C-130, to remain operationally relevant, fully mission capable and able to support the joint fight,” he said.

“This committee’s support of a sustained National Guard and Reserve Equipment Appropriation is instrumental to our modernization efforts,” Jackson said.

Retired Air Force, RAO staff member passes

By
Aerotech News
-
0

Courtesy photo/Linda Brown

The March Air Reserve Base Retiree Activities Office (RAO) would like to express their sincere condolences to the family and friends of longtime staff member and retired Senior Master Sgt. William Brown following his recent passing. After retiring from the Air Force following 27 years of service, Brown continued to serve his fellow retirees and their families for 20 years through the RAO.

Traumatic brain injury is an all-ages threat

By
Aerotech News
-
0
U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Jim Araos

Going for an afternoon jog and participating in afterschool sports are parts of daily life for millions of children. Most times, these activities are healthy and harmless, but without proper safety measures, traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are a possibility. A trip and fall could result in a head bump, as could a collision during a sporting event. In both cases, a mild TBI, also known as a concussion, could be the outcome. Injuries of this nature are common and can be scary, but parents and adults can take steps to improve safety and reduce injuries in children.

“Brain injuries don’t discriminate based on age,” said Dr. Scott Livingston, director of education at the Defense and Veteran Brain Injury Center (DVBIC). “Children definitely are not immune. In fact, a very large percentage of emergency room department visits each year are for children who suffered a brain injury.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 2 million Americans, including more than 500,000 children, suffered some form of TBI in 2010. Falls, assaults, traffic accidents and unintentional hits to the head with some sort of object are the most common causes of these injuries. The majority of TBIs are mild, labeled concussions, and the prognosis for a full recovery is excellent. Bicycle accidents, football collisions, playground injuries and all-terrain vehicle mishaps are common causes of TBI in children and adolescents. “Playing sports is certainly one of the places where kids might encounter a mild trauma when they run into somebody else or hit a goal post,” said Dr. Marc DiFazio, a pediatric neurologist at Children’s National Medical Center in Washington, D.C., and an Army reservist.

Parents and children can reduce the chance of a TBI by taking certain precautions. DiFazio says that prevention of head injuries includes properly using sports equipment and protective gear, such as helmets, and using common sense and following safety instructions. DiFazio and Livingston said the pros of being involved in sports outweigh the cons, and that recreational activities can make children physically and mentally healthier.

“Exercise and sports participation are highly beneficial for our children,” said DiFazio on the importance of physical exercise, and that being fit and healthy can reduce the chance of injury. “We don’t need to unduly shelter our kids.”

He added that parents should not overreact because most concussions, if healed properly, cause no permanent damage. Extended periods of rest, not participating in school or activities, and preventing children from playing sports altogether can negatively affect the child by causing depression, obesity and other medical issues. Children should interact with friends, be physically active, and not remain isolated if symptoms are improving.

“Concussions are not one size fits all,” said DiFazio. “They [children] shouldn’t be unnecessarily restricted for a long period. If they are allowed to engage and be social, it can actually hasten their recovery.”

While preventative measures do help reduce the chances of an injury, no injury is entirely preventable. If a child does suffer a blow to the head, parents and adults should look for certain symptoms that indicate the child is concussed. Headache, dizziness, and a change in level of consciousness are all common symptoms of concussions. A concussed person might also experience confusion and have difficulty remembering the injury. If children are experiencing any of these symptoms, they should seek medical attention and rest for at least 24 hours before gradually resuming normal cognitive and physical activities. Livingston said that if children do not fully recover, they are at risk of a subsequent injury.

“The most straightforward approach is education,” said Livingston on preventing TBIs. “It’s important children understand the dangers of head injuries.”

For resources and additional information on concussions and other TBIs, please visit the DVBIC Web page.

AFRC/4th Combat Camera win AF award

By
Aerotech News
-
0

ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. — Air Force Reserve Command’s video production “Winning Your Wings II” earned top honors as the Production of the Year in the 2015 Air Force Visual Information Products Awards.

Brig. Gen. Kathleen Cook, director, Air Force Public Affairs, made the announcement March 18.

The video, produced by AFRC Public Affairs and the 4th Combat Camera Squadron, March Air Reserve Base, California, also won in the Public Information/Internal Category.

“This is another great example of how Citizen Airmen have proven to the country the ability to transform ideas of ‘what’s possible’ into ‘mission complete,’” said Col. Bruce Bender, AFRC director of Public Affairs. “Congratulations to our AFRC PA and Combat Camera team for bringing home the gold.”

Winners, by category are:

Recruitment

1st: 17th STS Recruiting, Air Force Public Affairs Agency Operating Location-H

2nd: AFLCMC – Today’s Talent Ensures Tomorrow’s Air Superiority, 88th Air Base Wing, Air Combat Command

3rd: Are You Ready for the Challenge, 20th Fighter Wing, Air Combat Command

Documentary:

1st: 25th Anniversary of AFSOC, Air Force Public Affairs Agency Operating Location-H

2nd: SICOFAA, Air Force Public Affairs Agency Operating Location-H

3rd: 45 Years and Counting, 460th Space Wing, Air Force Space Command

Training:

1st: A Critical Role, Air Force Public Affairs Agency Operating Location-H

2nd: Air Superiority, 42nd Air Base Wing, Air Education & Training Command

3rd: Ali & Josh Hobson, Air Force Public Affairs Agency Operating Location-H

Public Information/Internal:

1st: Winning Your Wings II, Headquarters Air Force Reserve Command

2nd: Team Hill F-35 Mission Video, Air Force Public Affairs Agency Operating Location-H

3rd: CENTCOM Mission Video, Air Force Public Affairs Agency Operating Location-H:

Production of the Year:

Winning Your Wings II, Headquarters Air Force Reserve Command.

All 12 products will go forward to represent the Air Force in the Department of Defense competition hosted by the Defense Media Activity.

News Briefs 03/18/2016

By
Aerotech News
-
0

VOLUNTEER VICTIM ADVOCATES NEEDED

The SAPR Program March ARB is looking for a select group of individuals to act as volunteer victim advocates with the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program, March ARB. Basic requirements include: Formal application, approval from the volunteers commander and 40 hrs. of Victim Advocate training from an Air Force approved course. Applicants will then be required to apply for certification with the National Organization of Victim Advocates (NOVA). There will be a 40 hour course offered at March ARB on May 2. Applicants to the program must have clean background check, possess excellent communication skills, be of outstanding character and judgment and willing to respond to incidents of a very personal nature with great discretion while adhering to Air Force protocol in respect to the SAPR program. Please contact the SAPR office March ARB at 951-655-4551 or email at frank.pavone@us.af.mil

COMMUNITY 5K/10K RUN TO PREVENT VETERAN HOMELESSNESS

Vets 4 Veterans is holding the 1st Operation Restart 5K/10K Run/Walk and Mini Patriot Mile to support veterans and prevent homelessness in the veteran community. Vets 4 Veterans, a local 501(c)3 organization, is in its 7th year of supporting veterans through scholarships, immediate needs assistance and the planning of a temporary housing solution for at-risk veterans and their families. The homeless veteran population in Los Angeles County has risen by 6% over last year. The warriors who defend our country deserve access to all programs that may assist them to live better. Veterans, Veteran Supporters, Families, Children, Social Welfare Groups, Sports Trainers, Runners, Joggers, Military, 1st Responders and anyone else who wants to participate is invited. Operation Restart 5K/10K Run Walk and Mini Patriot Mile will be held on Saturday, April 2, 2016 from 7 to 11 a.m. at the Antelope Valley Mall, 1233 Rancho Vista Blvd, Palmdale, California 93551. Registration and the starting line is in the Sears parking area. Online registration is at www.avvets4veterans.org. For info, contact Michael Campbell at 714-919-6709 or michael.campbell@avvets4veterans.org.

APRIL MONTH OF MILITARY CHILD EVENT

Announcing the 3rd Annual April, Month of the Military Child event in Los Angeles on Sunday, April 17 from 1:30 – 4:00 p.m. This event held at the Los Angeles Public Library – Downtown, is a collaborative effort by members of the Los Angeles Veterans Collaborative – Families & Children Working Group. There will be activities and goodies for children up to age 12 years, but all are welcome to attend. Share this invitation with your military-connected families. Last year they hosted children from throughout the Southern California area. Complete the online registration to assist with planning for this event. Children registered by March 4 will receive a certificate from the Office of Mayor Eric Garcetti. Registration closes on April 10th. For more information or to register, contact Deborah J. Hayes, dejhayesconsulting@gmail.com. You may also donate items in support of this event, (children’s books, gift cards, small toys, etc.)

RETIREE ACTIVITIES OFFICE NEEDS VOLUNTEERS

The March Retiree Activities Office is in need of volunteers who can donate just three hours of their time weekly to help fellow retirees and their families. To volunteer or for more information, call 951-655-4077/4079.

DOD-WIDE CHANGES TO MATERNITY LEAVE

The Defense Secretary has approved a change to Air Force policy authorizing an additional six (6) weeks of Maternity Leave for Air Force Active Duty Airmen as well as Reserve and Guard Airmen on active duty orders (pursuant to AFI 36-2619, Military Personnel Appropriation (MPA) Man-Day Program and AFI 36-2254, Volume 1, Reserve Personnel Participation) who give birth, effective Feb. 5, 2016. This leave is non-chargeable and the 12-week period must be taken continuously. For those who are already on maternity leave effective Feb. 5, 2016, they will be granted a 6-week extension. Additionally, Airmen who extended their current 42-day maternity leave and are currently on ordinary leave may convert the chargeable ordinary leave to the new non-chargeable Maternity Leave. In the case of dual-military couples, Maternity Leave may not be transferred to create any kind of shared benefit, and in all cases, unused Maternity Leave will be forfeited if not used. Commanders will grant Maternity Leave in all cases where Airmen are eligible. Furthermore, no Airmen shall be disadvantaged in her career, including limitations to assignments, evaluations, or selection for PME because she has taken Maternity Leave.

ATTENTION ALL 3As (3A1X1s)

Senior Master Sgt. Cynthia Villa has been selected by wing leadership to serve as the 3A Functional Manager. She is very excited for this opportunity and is ready to go to work! In an effort to get to meet every 3A personally, Villa will hold a 3A All Call on Sunday, March 6 and March 20 at 1 p.m. in the Cultural Resource Center. This will give each of you the opportunity to meet her and have a two-way discussion regarding the wing’s current 3A situation, to include personnel moves, loss of positions, other pertinent information, or anything else you may want to discuss as a 3A. Maximum participation of all 3As is highly encouraged. It’s a team effort.

JOINT OFFICER PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT SEMINAR

The Defense Education Forum (DEF) in conjunction with the Reserve Officers Association Department of the Golden West with host a Joint Officer Professional Development Seminar (JOPDS) April 22-24, 2016 at the Holiday Inn Bayside, San Diego. The Department Convention is being held concurrently.

The JOPDS is one of the premier professional development opportunities available to our younger officers and is one of the only professional development seminars to emphasize joint service participation. To date, more than a thousand young officers from all services have benefited from these ROA DEF events.

The ROA Chapter #57, at March ARB, is part of The San Diego Chapter which is made up of Reserve Officers of the United States Armed Services. Their geographical area encompasses the greater San Diego area from the Mexican border north to the Orange County and Riverside County areas, and from the Pacific Ocean east to include Imperial County. Membership is open to any federally commissioned officer, warrant officer, of the National Guard, Reserve, Active Component, Former officers or Retired officers and their spouses and recently includes non-commissioned officers. The March ROA chapter Junior Officer Liaison is Capt. Lombardo at 951-655-5722.

Find The ROA Department of the Golden West, which covers California and Nevada, at roa.org/ca.

ENLISTED DEVELOPMENTAL EDUCATION BOARD

Air Reserve Personnel Center officials will release the Invitation to Apply and open the application cycle for the annual Enlisted Developmental Education Board Friday, Feb. 5. The EDEB will convene May 16 at HQ ARPC. All applications are due to ARPC no later than April 15, 4:30 p.m. MT. Call the Total Force Service Center at DSN 665-0102 or 210-565-0102 for questions or further information.

MARCH FIELD AIRFEST ON WEB/SOCIAL MEDIA

The March Field AirFest Website is now live at http://marchfieldairfest.marchfss.com. Also, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for AirFest updates. Find us on Facebook at March Field AirFest; on Instagram @MarchFieldAirFest; on Twitter @MarchAirFest. Join the conversations!!

DESERVING AIRMAN COMMISSIONING BOARD TO CONVENE

Great News! If you are interested in becoming an Air Force Reserve officer at Team March, the next Deserving Airman Commissioning Board will convene on May 21-22, 2016. If you are interested, and meet the qualifications located on the wing INFO drive – X:\MarchBaseInfo, in the DACB pamphlet, please have your completed commissioning packages submitted to the 452 FSS/FSMPD (Career Development) office not later than close of business, Monday, May 2, 2016. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to call career development at 951-655-3113.

COMMAND POST NEEDS AIRMEN

The 452nd Air Mobility Wing Command Post is in need of new Airmen. They have several full-time Air Reserve Technician positions and several Traditional Reserve positions available.

Command Post brief job description: The base command post is the central control point for base mission operations and often is in direct communication with the wing commander. Command Post personnel are key facilitators in ensuring optimal Command and Control (C2) operations and communications. Specific tasks depend on the mission and aircraft assigned to that base, which could range from cargo transport to space systems and nuclear operations. If interested please contact Senior Master Sgt. Frank Gomez at frank.gomez.2@us.af.mil.

EDUCATION & TRAINING OFFICE TO PROVIDE MASS BRIEFINGS

Beginning in December, during the Unit Training Assemblies, the March Education and Training office will conduct ongoing, mass briefings for any Tuition Assistance, GI Bill and Community College of the Air Force (CCAF) inquiries. Their schedule is as follows:

CCAF briefing:

UTA Sundays from 10 to 10:30 a.m. in Bldg. 441, Rm. 12

Tuition Assistance briefing:

UTA Sundays from 1 to 1:45 p.m. in Bldg. 441, Rm. 12

GI Bill briefing:

UTA Sundays from 2 to 22:45 p.m. in Bldg. 441, Rm. 12

In-processing (technical school):

Monday – Friday from 2 – 3 p.m. in Bldg. 441, main office

For more information, contact Master Sgt. Brown at 951-655-4442.

SARC HOSTS FREE MIND BODY RESILIENCY CLASSES

Are you interested in learning more about the Mind and Body connection and how this can promote better overall health? Then come join the interactive and informational series of one-hour classes based on the Benson-Henry Institute for Mind Body Medicine’s Resilient Warrior. Classes are scheduled on the A and B Unit Training Assemblies through September 2016. Topics for the six-part series include

– Stress Reactions and Relaxation Response

– Getting Good Sleep

– Mindfulness and a Positive State of Mind

– Yin and Yang of Resiliency

– Yoga & Journaling

– Social Connections & Communication

Time and Location:

UTA Sundays, 11 a.m. – noon

Bldg. 470, room 205

Contact frank.pavone@us.af.mil or 655-4551 for more information. No reservation required.

REGISTER FOR YELLOW RIBBON EVENTS

Upcoming dates for Yellow Ribbon events are Mar 18-20, Apr. 22-24, May 20-22, Jun 17-19. For more formation, contact 1st Lt. Shelley Lawrence, your 452nd Air Mobility Wing Yellow Ribbon representative, for details at 951-655-4615.

BACK STREET GRILL HOURS

Hours of operation for the newly renovated Back Street Grill are Monday – Friday for breakfast from 6:30 to 10 a.m., for lunch from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.; UTA weekends for breakfast (Sat & Sun) from 5:30 to 9 a.m., for lunch (Sat & Sun) from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., for dinner (Sat only) from 4 to 8 p.m. Additionally, the Back Street Grill proudly serves Starbucks Monday – Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and UTAs (Sat & Sun) from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m.

GRILL NIGHT AT SALLY’S ALLEY

Every Wednesday night starting at 4 p.m., Sally’s Alley is open for business with Grill Night. For more information, call them at 951-653-2121.

FITNESS CENTER NEWS

The March Fitness Center has received the Wellbeats Virtual Group Fitness Kiosk. This kiosk allows members to participate in virtual fitness classes.

Daily WellBeats Fitness Schedule is:

Mondays: 10:30 a.m. – REV (spin); 12:15 p.m. – Yoga

Tuesdays: 12:15 p.m. – Fit for Duty; 4:00 p.m. – REV

Wednesdays: 6 a.m. – Yoga/Pilates; 11 a.m. – V.I.B.E./Toning; 12:15 p.m. – REV

Thursdays: 11 a.m. – REV; 12:45 p.m. – Fit for Duty

Fridays: 11 a.m. – Core; 11:15 a.m. Pilates

Wellbeats offers many more classes available at the members’ request.

FIP (Fitness Improvement classes) available through our Wellbeats Kiosk.

Additional opportunities for fitness:

Tuesday, 11 a.m. and Thursday, 12:15 p.m. – Battle ropes training

Monday, 10:30 a.m. and Wednesday, 11:30 a.m. – TRX

A & B UTA Saturdays, 7 a.m. – Wellbeats Fit for Duty

A & B UTA Sundays, 7 a.m. – Wellbeats REV

A UTA Saturdays, 5 p.m. – Virtual Strength “Fit for Duty”

B UTA, 5 – 7 p.m. – Pick-up basketball

Coming in 2016: Inter-Services Golf Tournament, Team Cohesion Challenge, Armed Forces 5K Run.

Call the Fitness & Sports center at 951-655-2292 to sign up or for more information on these programs.

Class descriptions:

Circuit Training – a high intensity interval training class that integrated cardio and muscular endurance exercises

Core – various classes from our WellBeats system that focus entirely on working out your core

Fit for Duty – a high-energy, extreme, conditioning workout led by service members with expertise in fitness training

Functional Fitness – A type of high-intensity interval training combining cardio and weight training into one short but intense class with mobility drills, mountain climbers, lunges, push-up, kettlebells, goblet squats duck walk, run.

Fusion – an integration of yoga and Pilates exercises with attention to breath, form, flow and body balance.

Kinetics – a total body, multi-activity class that includes sports-style cardio intervals with resistance training circuits and muscle isolation work

REV – an indoor cycling class that combines sprints, climbs, intervals, drills, terrain, and technique training

Stomp – a total body, cardio-driven step class as it was originally meant to be taught

TKO – a blend of martial arts disciplines that includes a combination of punches, kicks, and strikes

TRX – introductory class that teaches basic exercises to strengthen core and transition into more advanced techniques on the TRX suspension system

V.I.B.E. – multi-dimensional dance exercises ranging from Latin to urban, hip-hop and more

Zumba/Zumbathon – well-known dancing class featuring exotic rhythms set to high-energy Latin and international beats (Zumbathon is a two-hour Zumba class in which participants can win prizes.)

 

             OUTDOOR REC UPCOMING 2016 TRIPS

The outdoor recreation division has scheduled trips for target audiences of Single Airmen (SAP), Pre/Post-Deployers (RecOn) and Deployed-affected family members (DP). There is special pricing for these members (SAP/RECON/DP column). All others (military/DOD ID card holders and their guests) are invited on a space-available basis at the higher, per-person price listed in the EOE column. Reservations are on a first-come, first-served basis, and can be made by contacting ODR at 951-655-2816.
DATE – TRIP SAP/RECON/DP EOE
Mar. 26 – Skiing/Boarding SAP – $20 $64
Apr. 9 – Hollywood Hills Horseback Riding SAP – $15 $75
Apr. 21-23 – Black Canyon Canoe Trip SAP – $35 $112
May 13-15 – Whitewater Rafting DE – $30 $130
May 28 – Deep Sea Fishing SAP- $25 $102
Jun. 10-12 – Spelunking SAP – $40 $110
Jun. 18 – Skydiving SAP – $40 $199
Jul. 16 – Couples Ballooning RecOn/DE – $30 $148
Jul. 30 – La Jolla Kayaking RecOn/DE – $15 $70
Aug. 13 – Catalina Adventure RecOn/DE – $40 $150
Aug. 27 – Bridge to Nowhere Bungee Jumping SAP – $20 $85
Sep. 3 – Skydiving RecOn/DE – $40 $199
SEP. 3 – Zipline/segway tour SAP – $40 $200
Sep. 17 – Deep Sea Fishing RecOn/DE – $25 $102
Sep. 24 – Tandem Hang Gliding RecOn/DE – $50 $199

OUTDOOR REC EQUIPMENT RENTALS

Outdoor Recreation has a variety of equipment for rent such as camping gear, water sports equipment, bicycles, and trailers to carry it all! Special orders for Callaway, Odyssey, Cleveland, Never Compromise, Nike, Bag Boy, Sun Mountain and Staff golf equipment are also available. Download the full equipment rental price list at MarchFSS.com, call 951-655-2816 or come on by for more information.

MARCH TICKETS & TOURS

Amusement Park Specials

Castle Park: $16 per person includes unlimited rides, water park access, miniature golf and the new Sky Rider.

Disney 3-Day Park Hopper military special: $140 per person (adult/child)

Discount Movie Tickets

Available for only $10 each and valid for Regal Cinemas, United Artists Theatres and Edwards Cinemas.

Hotel Discounts

Receive 10% off any Best Western and 15% off any Choice Hotel

Visit the Tickets & Tours page at MarchFSS.com and download the Discount Ticket Price List for a full list of discounts tickets prices, hotel discounts and special promotions. Call Tickets & Tours at 951-655-4123 for more information.

FY16 UTA RESCHEDULE GUIDELINES

Brig. Gen. Muncy has determined that the following FY 16 Unit Training Assemblies may only be rescheduled if the reschedule date is for the alternate UTA during the same month of the A and B UTAs for the months of May and August 2016. The wing commander will authorize reschedules outside of the same month, if absolutely necessary, on a case-by-case basis.

1...8910...64Page 9 of 64

EDITOR PICKS

POPULAR POSTS

POPULAR CATEGORY

©