July 8 - Joint Base San Antonio

A publication of the 502nd Air Base Wing – Joint Base San AntonioRANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE 65th Year • No. 34 • AUGUST 26, 2011PAGE 11INSIDE ... CFC SET TO KICK OFF, P4 ... RANDOLPH GOES GREEN, P5 ... SUMMERTIME FOOD SAFETY, P7 ... OPERATION FLOAT A SOLDIER, P8

PAGE 2By Aaron Bradley902nd Logistics Readiness SquadronFormer U.S. Secretary of StateColin Powell once said “perpetualoptimism is a force multiplier.” It’sone of 13 rules of success outlined inhis book, “My American Journey.”Throughout his career, individualswere drawn to Powell because ofhis enthusiasm and positive approachto life. By saying optimism is a forcemultiplier, he simply meant our positivity,self-confidence and hopeful expectationsare contagious and will rub off oneveryone who comes in contact with us.We communicate enthusiasm throughour words, attitude, voice quality andbody language. Those around us senseour enthusiasm almost immediatelythrough our physical vibrancy, whether itis the bounce in our step or the brightnessin our eyes. People with enthusiasmsimply can’t wait to dig in to thetask at hand. Enthusiasm intensifies ourfocus and ignites our resourcefulness.Every great parent, coach, teacherand leader can be a powerful positiveinfluence on those around them if theyare keenly aware of the importance ofnever underestimating others. Thereis untapped greatness in all of us. Asleaders, our foremost responsibility isto help our team members discoverand develop their special qualities. Thismeans we often must hold the imageof excellence up to them so theybegin to see themselves in that light.During the early ’80s, I had theprivilege of playing on the varsitybasketball team at Bitburg Air Base,Germany. We were known as theBitburg Barons and coached by theWINGSPREADCOMMENTARYEnthusiasm defines true leadership"People with enthusiasmsimply can’t wait to dig in to thetask at hand. Enthusiasmintensifies our focus andignites our resourcefulness."legendary George Price. Coach Price’splayers were aware of his personaldedication to basketball fundamentals.More importantly, he was alwaysfull of enthusiasm, selfconfidenceand positivity.He believed in and demanded his teampracticed until it executed every play withperfection. There wasn’t room for error,everyone on the team knew what heexpected and failure was not an option.Coach Price was a winner and heknew from experience and multiplechampionship seasons our team wouldbe successful if we practiced with apurpose and pursued the goal of perfectioneach and every day. We weren’tthe most talented that year; however,through Coach Price’s positive attitude,zest for life and perpetual optimism, weknew we were prepared for the seasonand truly believed we could beatany team. As a result, our team wonthe United States Air Forces in Europemen’s varsity basketball championship.Sometimes the difference betweenmediocrity and unleashing the greatnessinside someone is very slight. Asa leader, we may be right on the edgeof becoming the catalyst to bring outthe very best in our people. The possibilityis there in every moment.Often, the single most powerfulaction we can take is to help peoplefocus on the goal, task or mission athand. When people talk about all thechallenges they “want to,” “can’t waitto” or “love to” tackle, they are demonstratingthe kind of unstoppableenthusiasm that leads to mastery.Something almost magical happenswhen people break through obstaclesthat hold them back and discover whatis truly inside them. At this moment,they move from hoping to knowing. Itis the most electrifying and empoweringof all transformations. The impacton their teammates is no less dramatic.The experience of seeing one oftheir own achieve what they aretruly capable of awakens a heightenedbelief in their own potential.Success comes when every member ofthe team takes ownership of the visionand accepts responsibility for his or herpart in achieving it. The key, once again,is your own enthusiasm as a leader.Be careful though, it’s contagious.Randolph community connects with base Public AffairsWant to get in touch with theRandolph Air Force BasePublic Affairs office?Here's how!Public Affairspublic.affairs@us.af.milWingspread502ABW.pa.wingspread@us.af.milStraight Talk line652-SHOW (7469)Multimedia Customer Service652-4226RAFB Facebook pagewww.facebook.com/pages/Randolph-Air-Force-BaseCall the RAFB Public Affairs office directly at 652-4410.AUGUST 26, 2011ON THE COVERGage Belyeu, Randolph High Schooljunior, prepares to throw a pass duringthe Randolph Ro-Hawks' preseasonfootball practice Aug. 16. For completecoverage of the team, see page 11.Photo by Don Lindsey502nd Air Base WingOperating Location BravoEditorial StaffBrig. Gen. Theresa CarterCommanderMarilyn HollidayChief of Public AffairsAirman 1st Class Alexis SiekertEditorAirman 1st Class Precious YettRobert Goetz, Alex SalinasStaff WritersMaggie ArmstrongGraphic DesignerWingspread Office1150 5th Street EastRandolph AFB, Texas 78150Phone: (210) 652-4410Wingspread Advertisement OfficePrime Time Military Newspapers2203 S. HackberrySan Antonio, Texas 78210Phone: (210) 534-8848Wingspread email502ABW.pa.wingspread@us.af.milThis newspaper is published by Prime Time Military Newspapers,a private firm in no way connected with the U.S. AirForce, under exclusive written contract with Randolph AFB,Texas. This commercial enterprise Air Force newspaper isan authorized publication for members of the U.S. militaryservices. Contents of the Talespinner are not necessarily theofficial views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. government, theDepartment of Defense, or the Department of the Air Force.The appearance of advertising in this publication, includinginserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsementby the Department of Defense, the Department of the AirForce or Prime Time Military Newspapers, of the products orservices advertised.Everything advertised in this publication shall be madeavailable for purchase, use or patronage without regard torace, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status,physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other nonmeritfactor of the purchaser, user or patron.Editorial content is edited, prepared and provided by thePublic Affairs Office of the 502nd Air Base Wing. All photos,unless otherwise indicated, are U.S. Air Force photos.The deadline for submissions is noon Thursday the weekprior to publication. All submissions can be emailed to502ABW.pa.wingspread@us.af.mil. For more information,call the Wingspread office at 652-4410.

AUGUST 26, 2011 WINGSPREADPAGE 3Resiliency needed for strong Air Force, communityBy Alex Salinas502nd Air Base Wing OL-B Public AffairsThere are many qualities that make a superiorAirman. One doesn’t need to look much furtherthan the Airman’s Creed and the Core Values, whichspeak about integrity, service before self and excellence,to find inspiration.However, an oft-overlooked term that consistentlymakes the Airman prepared for adversity is resiliency.Under Air Force Instruction 44-172, which governsmental health services and support, a ResiliencyElement was created within the Air ForceMedical Services to address the importance ofmaintaining a resilient Air Force.So what exactly does resiliency mean in the AirForce?“Resiliency is the ability to withstand, recoverand grow in the face of stressors and changingdemands,” states the AFI. The coordinated effortwithin AFMS is to advocate resiliency intimatelyaffects the Airman’s overall quality of life, rangingfrom their family life and stress management totheir physical fitness and leadership.The Randolph Mental Health Flight in its resiliencyoutreach and prevention activities is promoting “ResiliencyStrengthens Military Communities,” a slogan thatintroduces resiliency as a multi-dimensional conceptthat increases one’s overall wellness.By Tammy CournoyerWarrior and Family Operations CenterWith active-duty positions beingeliminated through current forcemanagementmeasures, it’s importantAirmen identified for separation use avital tool – the Air Force Transition AssistanceProgram – to help ease themselvesand their families into transitionfrom military to civilian life.Separating can be stressful anytime,but especially if it was not in the Airman’simmediate plans. Air Force TAPofficials have procedures in place toassist Airmen being affected by forcemanagementinitiatives.“We are well aware of the stress andanxiety our Airmen and their familiesare experiencing because of force shapinginitiatives,” Vonda Ware, Air ForceAirman and Family Readiness Operationsprogram manager, said. “Airmanand Family Readiness Center staff ateach base are prepared to assist. Airmenneed to take full advantage of ourtransition program as soon as possible;this is especially important if they arefacing a short separation window.”“We want all Airmen to beresilient. We never knowwhat situation we willface where we will need tobounce back.”Lt. Col. Denise Thompson359th Medical Operation Squadron clinical social worker“Resiliency encompasses the cognitive andemotional-well being of a person,” Lt. Col. DeniseThompson, 359th Medical Operation Squadron clinicalsocial worker, said. “We want all Airmen to beresilient. We never know what situation we will facewhere we will need to bounce back.”“Bounce” is a particularly strong verb serving asa buzzword to better understand resiliency. Like abasketball that does not lose its bounce on the hardwood,or a rubber band that does not lose its snap,one’s ability to be flexible and maintain their wellbeingare included in resiliency’s definition.Within the Randolph Mental Health Flight’s resiliencyslogan is a community aspect crucial in composing aThe transition program partners theresources of the Department of Defense,Department of Labor, VeteransAffairs and Department of HomelandSecurity by highlighting available benefits,offering career counseling, helpingwith resumes and customizing financialplanning.One of the successful program toolsis a three-day TAP seminar where Airmenlearn about benefits unique totheir situation. For example, in mostcases, people involuntarily separatedare granted two years of commissaryand exchange benefits, six months ofmedical benefits for themselves andtheir family members and more.“Besides the tools for a successful jobsearch, the most important informationpeople facing separation can take awayfrom the TAP seminar are the benefitsthey are entitled to as a veteran,” RayRamos, Randolph Air Force Base Airmanand Family Readiness Center communityreadiness consultant, said. “Informationon VA benefits and filing a VA claim isan essential part of retiring or separating.By doing this, they are not just taking careof themselves, but also their family.”VA representatives offer briefingsabout the various programs availableto departing Airmen at the stateand federal levels. These benefitsinclude disability compensation, lifesound, resilient Air Force.“Military personnel are not the only ones involved inbeing resilient,” Thompson said. “Their family, friends,civilian supporters – everyone – impacts them.”Resiliency encompasses everyday life occurrences,trivial and momentous. This is enforced bythe mental, physical, social and spiritual aspects ofresiliency, which are four major components thatserve as its foundation.The AFI documents 12 items for Airmen and Randolphmembers to perform to enhance their own resilienceand performance.While the concept of resiliency, as it relates to AFMS,is new, its worth to the Air Force is a reinforcement ofall of its tried-and-true core qualities.“The main goal is to have a resilient Air Force,and for resilience to not only strengthen our AirForce community, but the entire Department of Defenseas well,” Thompson said. “Resiliency is aboutfinding solutions and building strengths today tosolve the stressors of tomorrow.”Resilience, unlike a cause-and-effect relationship,does not require hardship and then subsequent actionand solution, Thompson said. Rather, it is up to the Airman,and all, to initiate a proactive approach to theirlives to ensure they receive maximum wellness.For more information on "Resiliency StrengthensMilitary Communities" or any other inquiries, call theMental Health Flight at 652-2448.TAP readies separating Airmen for civilian job huntingProgram helps job-seeking vetsThe South Texas Employment InitiativeProgram is supporting three career fairs:Texas Veterans Commission Career Fair andWorkshop at the Live Oak Civic Center inUniversal City Sept. 21; the Military OfficersAssociation of America Career Fair andWorkshop at the Marriott Riverwalk Oct.26-27; and the Non Commissioned OfficersAssociation Career Fair and Workshop atthe Norris Convention Center Nov. 15. Allthree career fairs are open to current andprior service military personnel, active dutyand Reserve, seeking employment.The EIP, a coalition of the Department ofDefense’s Employer Support of the Guardand Reserve, the Department of Labor/Veterans’ Employment and Training Service,the Texas Veterans Commission and theAlliance for Veterans and Families, assistsveterans with immediate assistance and/or training and then connecting them withemployers who are ready to hire.insurance, home and business loans,medical care and education, if qualified,and veteran burial and memorialservices.See SEPARATING P6

PAGE 4By Robert Goetz502nd Air Base Wing OL-B Public AffairsService members and civilian employeesat Randolph will soon havean opportunity to contribute to theirfavorite charities.Randolph’s Combined Federal Campaign,an annual effort to raise funds fornonprofit organizations worldwide thatprovide health and human services, willbegin with a breakfast at 7:15 a.m. Sept.14 at the Parr O’Club.The kickoff breakfast will featureguest speaker Eric Cooper, presidentand CEO of the San Antonio FoodBank, one of more than 250 local nonprofitorganizations that benefit fromthe campaign.“The Combined Federal Campaign letsour Airmen – active duty, civil service anddependents – provide critical support toorganizations trying to make the worlda better place,” Col. Scott Peel, 902ndMission Support Group commander, said.“Airmen can tailor their contributions tosupport the organizations that speak tothem the most, and can elect to makea difference at the global, national and/or local levels. All contributions are welcome;even the smallest donations can goa long way to make a tremendous differencein people’s lives.”Master Sgt. Terri Harmon, RandolphCFC base captain, said personnel involvedin the campaign are aiming for 100-percentcontact in the first week.“Key workers will talk to everyone intheir unit, especially new Airmen and civilianemployees, and make sure they knowthe campaign has begun and how theycan contribute,” she said.CFC, the world’s largest annual workplacecharity campaign, raised more than$281 million last year, including morethan $5.5 million from the San Antonioarea. Pledges are made by federal civilian,postal and military donors.Harmon said the campaign, whichruns through Oct. 28, is geared to Airmenand civil service employees, butcontractors may also contribute to theeffort, though their donations will notbe solicited.WINGSPREADNEWSRandolph’s goal this year is $1,122,923;last year’s contributions of $1,109,686 exceededa goal of $1,078,861 by nearly 3percent. The 902nd MSG is host organizationfor the base’s campaign; ThomasGoodwin, 902nd Force Support Squadron,is serving as Joint Base San Antonio CFCcoordinator, overseeing the efforts of Randolphand Lackland Air Force Bases andFort Sam Houston.Harmon said contributors can choosefrom more than 2,700 charitable organizationsworldwide and be sure their moneywill be spent wisely because every agencyhas been pre-screened for program integrityand fiscal soundness.“When you give to an organization, youknow your money will be used where youwant it to be used,” she said. “It does notgo to administrative costs.”Participants donate to the campaignthrough payroll deduction orcash contribution, filling out vouchersto designate one or more of theagencies for their donations.For more information, call Harmonat 652-2525.AUGUST 26, 2011Randolph’s Combined Federal Campaign to kick off Sept. 14Organizational project officers for theRandolph Combined Federal Campaign are:Senior Master Sgt. Shawn Gilmore,Air Force Manpower Agency, 652-0579;Capt. Robert Loniewsky,Air Education and Training Command,652-1940;Maj. Abraham Salomon,Air Force Personnel Center, 565-2797;Maj. Joe Garcia, 19th Air Force,joe.garcia.1@us.af.mil;Maj. Eric Lacouture,12th Flying Training Wing, 565-7101;Jewell Hicks,502nd Air Base Wing OL-B, 671-5588NATOoperation inLibyaCol. Tom Coglitore, MaxwellAir Force Base, Ala.,Officer Training Schoolcommander, speaks tomembers of the 12th FlyingTraining Wing aboutOperation Unified Protectorin the Parr O’Club Aug. 19.Coglitore was the militaryassistant to the commanderof Headquarters AlliedAir Command in Izmir,Turkey, during OperationUnified Protector, NATO’soperation to protect civiliansand civilian-populatedareas under threat of attackin Libya.Photo by Rich McFadden

AUGUST 26, 2011 WINGSPREADPAGE 5Randolph researches renewable energy optionsBy Robert Goetz502nd Air Base Wing OL-B Public AffairsThe Air Force is seeking to meet 25 percent of its energyneeds through renewable sources by the beginningof the next decade, but officials agree not all bases areable to contribute to this endeavor equally.Ken Gray, Air Force Facility Energy Center EnergyRates and Renewables Branch chief, said each installationis “unique” and should base its renewables strategyon natural energy resources, land availability, missionand location.“Some installations do not have the natural resourcesneeded to meet the goals, while some locations are capableof developing renewables well above the mandatedgoals to contribute to the total Air Force effort,” he wrotein the 2011 edition of Air Force Facility Energy, a publicationof the Air Force Civil Engineer Support Agency.Some renewables, such as geothermal technologyand wind turbines, are not an option for Randolph, but902nd Civil Engineer Squadron professionals are lookingat other possibilities, such as the use of solar photovoltaicpanels, which convert solar radiation into electricity.“It’s difficult to have favorable economics for renewableenergy projects,” Bruce Dschuden, 902nd CES resourceefficiency manager, said. “Utility costs are so lowacross the board, it’s hard to justify.”Dschuden said the 902nd CES is studying a varietyBy Staff Sgt. Robert Barnett59th Medical Wing Public AffairsEnergy TipStay cool while saving energySet thermostat as high as comfortably possiblein the summer. The less difference between theindoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower theoverall cooling bill will be. Setting thermostatsat a cooler setting than normal when trying toinitially cool a house does not cool it any faster,but costs more money unnecessarily.of possible applications for solar panels, such as placingthem on hangars and installing them at the fitness centerto supplement hot water use in the shower areas.“We have to explore each potential,” he said.Dschuden said a potential project would be to installsolar panels on the fire station at Randolph’s auxiliaryairfield in Seguin.“We could run the whole facility on solar,” he said.However, it will require about $200,000 in fundingand payback may take years because of low utility costs,Dschuden said.Other obstacles to solar power are the lack of an effectiveway to store power generated by panels and theDrinking carbonated beveragesand sports drinks can cause seriousdamage to your teeth.The main ingredients in carbonatedbeverages are sugar and citricacids, which increase your chance ofgetting severe tooth decay and gumdisease, Col. (Dr.) Alan Sutton, 59thMedical Wing prosthodontist, said.Not only is the sugar contentharmful, but the acids attack and eataway at tooth enamel, the strongestsubstance in the human body.“Most of us find that when weare looking for something to drinkat work, in the grocery store or onbase, we typically skip the waterand grab a soda, power drink orenergy drink,” Sutton said. “This isthe wrong choice. These drinks areextremely acidic.”Acidity is measured by what is calledpH; the lower the pH, the more acidic theliquid. The human body’s pH is around 6.8to 7; the pH of many carbonated beveragesis as low as 2.“This is about 100,000 times moreacidic than water,” Sutton explained.“Once a liquid’s acidity is below 5.5pH, the enamel and dentin of ourteeth will begin to dissolve.”New decay and tooth wear is commonin young to middle-aged adults.Many of them have a chronic acidicdrink habit causing dental erosionand corrosion.“Some people are addicts,” hesaid. “These people drink two tothree six-packs of soda each day. Itsounds bad because it is bad.”Citric and phosphoric acids arethe main players in tooth destruction,and are commonly used by beveragecompanies to artificially createthe various fruit flavors. Citric acid isknown to attract calcium, removingit from teeth.It may be assumed that sportsdrinks are a healthy choice while exercisingor when extremely thirsty.This may not be the best assumptionto make. Like carbonated sodas,sports drinks also contain a highlevel of sugar.“The ingredients in power drinksmay be two to three times as destructiveas sodas,” Sutton said.Many people even feel the carbonatedbeverages burn their throats.“Some hold the soda in theirmouths before swallowing,” he said.This action holds the acidic drinkonto teeth for a longer time and morecost of the technology.“Solar panel costs are coming down, but they’re stillnot in the affordable range,” he said.Dschuden said retrofitting solar panels is problematic,especially at Randolph, where many structures are listedon the National Registry of Historic Places and may notbe altered to accommodate panels.However, Ruben Ramos, 902nd CES utilities manager,said new construction is better suited for the use of solarpower. Panels can be part of the design, bufferingconstruction costs.Dschuden said solar panels are also more feasible withlarger projects, such as solar arrays at Davis-Monthanand Luke Air Force Bases, Ariz., and Nellis Air ForceBase, Nev., where more land is available, sunshine isplentiful and partnerships with local utility companiesand the private sector are advantageous.“The path we’re going down is exploring between twooptions: an enhanced-use lease or a power purchaseagreement,” he said.Under an enhanced-use lease, a third party uses privatefunds to build and operate a generation site on anAir Force base and pays the Air Force for using the landor infrastructure. On a power purchase agreement, thereis a wider range of benefits the Air Force can negotiatewith the third-party participant that funds the project.Those benefits are defined during the contract process.See ENERGY P6Carbonated beverages unhealthy for teethPhoto by Col. Alan SuttonDrinking acidic beverages can cause enamel erosion, requiring multiple dental procedures.destruction occurs. People will thengo and brush their teeth to get thedrink residue off because they knowit is bad, but this could cause additionaldamage by scrubbing awayeven more enamel.”“Realize that our bodies are 55 to 60percent water,” he added. “So when youare thirsty, reach for water.”See TEETH P6

PAGE 6WINGSPREADAUGUST 26, 2011Upcoming ExerciseJoint Base San Antonio will conduct an active shooter, mass casualty exercise Sept. 7 from1-5 p.m., to test each installation’s incident response and recovery elements. First response, wing,mission support and medical personnel will be evaluated. It will involve use of installation massnotification and warning system (giant voice). All giant voice, computer and telephone communicationsfor the exercise will be preceded with clear text stating, “Exercise, Exercise, Exercise.”Mission partners and tenant units may acknowledge exercise input, but there is no causefor reaction or unit lockdowns. Details relevant to individual installations follow:• Randolph Air Force Base: 502nd Air Base Wing OL-B, 902nd Mission Support Groupand 359th Medical Group will stage a scenario scheduled to occur at Bldg. 2, 902nd CivilEngineer Squadron Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Shop• Lackland Air Force Base: 502nd Air Base Wing OL-A, 802nd Mission SupportGroup and Wilford Hall Medical Center will stage a scenario scheduled to occur atBldg. 1353, a vacant dormitory• Fort Sam Houston: 502nd Air Base Wing OL-C, 502nd Mission Support Groupand Brooke Army Medical Center will stage a scenario scheduled to occur atBldg. 2528, Behavioral Health facilityWilford Hall’s accreditationbegins with detailed surveyBy Sharon Winston59th Medical Wing Compliance OfficeAs Wilford Hall Medical Center transitionsto the Wilford Hall AmbulatorySurgical Center Sept. 15, the medicalfacility’s accreditation must convert fromThe Joint Commission to the AccreditationAssociation for Ambulatory HealthCare. The first step in the accreditationprocess will be an AAAHC survey Sept.26-29.The survey will evaluate Wilford Hall’scompliance with AAAHC standards forambulatory health care and to determineif accreditation should be awarded to, orretained by, the organization.Through an emphasis on educationand consultation, the ultimate purposeof the accreditation process is to improvethe quality of health care delivered bythis organization.Wilford Hall has voluntarily requestedthis survey as a means of having a reviewof the entire organization to buildupon strengths or to identify opportunitiesto improve the delivery of qualityhealth care.Members of the general public, patientsand individuals on the WilfordHall staff who believe they have pertinentand valid information about thisorganization’s provision of health careor compliance with AAAHC standards,may request an information presentationwith AAAHC surveyors at the time of thesurvey.They may also communicate suchinformation in writing or by telephoneto the AAAHC. All information receivedfrom identified individuals at or prior tothe survey will be considered in makingthe accreditation decision. The informationpresented will not be debated withthe reporting individual.Requests for presentation must bereceived at least two weeks prior to thesurvey in order to allow sufficient timeto schedule the presentations.Requests for public information presentationsor reporting of pertinent andvalid information may be communicatedin writing or by telephone to AAAHC atthe following address and telephonenumber:Accreditation Association forAmbulatory Health Care Inc.5250 Old Orchard Road, Suite 200Skokie, IL 60077Telephone: (847) 853-6060FAX: (847) 853-9028Contact the 59th Medical Wing ComplianceOffice at 292-6979 for more informationabout the AAAHC survey.SEPARATING From P3Seeking employment is a large partof the assistance provided by TAP resources.The thought of having to findwork in today’s uncertain job marketis scary for many Americans, and Airmenleaving the Air Force may feeloverwhelmed. Employment counselorswalk TAP participants through thejob-search maze.For example, during the seminar,they learn successful tactics such aswhere to look for jobs, how to presentand sell themselves and salary negotiations.Attendees learn importantcommunication tools, especially howto translate military acronyms andjargon into civilian-speak that can getthem hired.“(The Transition Assistance Program)gives retiring and separatingmembers the tools needed to be successfulin their real-world job search,”said Ramos. “Most members havenever had to write a resumé or interviewfor a job.”In addition to the seminar, Airmanand Family Readiness Center staff providedetailed pre-separation counselingthat covers everything from educationbenefits to unemployment compensation,health insurance and much more.TEETH From P6Water may also help fight the lackof energy due to dehydration. Theenergy drink or soda will only makedehydration worse.“The bottom line is to always readthe ingredients on the label beforedrinking it," he said. “If the beveragecontains acid and/or sugar, limit theamount you drink each day.”ENERGY From P6Dschuden said Joint Base San Antonio“is taking the lead on renewableson a larger scale,” working with localenergy utility CPS Energy, which Ramossaid “is looking for adding moresolar to its portfolio.”“They have a target they’re tryingto hit,” Dschuden said. “Joint BaseSan Antonio is trying to see where itcan fit into their plans and develop apartnership.”Funding is always an issue for renewableenergy projects, but Dschuden saidthe Air Force Energy Conservation ImprovementProgram is one way to addressthat problem.“ECIP funds were once channeled tobig construction projects, but now they’reThe staff offers classes on federal resuméwriting and navigating employmentwebsites such as USAJobs.com.Individual TAP classes are also providedon networking, interviewing skillsand salary negotiation. Besides classesand seminars, counselors can assistwith the development of an IndividualTransition Plan, a roadmap to transitionsuccess.“This provides them with actualhands on skills, which ensures membersare successful in their search,”Ramos added. “These services arealso provided and available for familymembers and DoD civilians as well.Knowledge decreases stress, especiallyin today’s economy.”“People leaving our Air Force today arehighly trained and skilled professionals,”said Ware. “We are ready and willing tohelp them successfully return to civilianlife.”Since its development more than 20years ago, millions of service membersthroughout the DoD have taken advantageof what TAP has to offer. The DoD TAPwebsite is located at http://www.turbotap.org/register.tpp and offers numerous resourcesfor people before and after leavingactive duty.“Should you choose a soda, donot sip on it for the next hour. Tryto consume the drink within about10 minutes and allow about 45 minutesfor your saliva to neutralizeand re-mineralize your teeth. Andhopefully, we won’t see you in thedentist chair with multiple cavities.”used for renewable only,” he said. “It’s atool to look at, but there’s also a lot ofcompetition for those funds.”Renewable energy is important becauseit reduces the carbon footprintand can lead to energy independence,Ramos said.“Anytime you use renewables, you’rereducing demand,” he said.Dschuden said more opportunitieswill arise as more money is spent onresearch and development, and assolar technology evolves.“It’s there, but it’s just not economicallyattractive at this point becauseof cost,” he said. “Technology willcontinue to improve, and we anticipateprices will come down.”

AUGUST 26, 2011 WINGSPREADPAGE 7CDOS campaign highlights summertime food safetyBy Alex Salinas502nd Air Base Wing OL-B Public AffairsTexans' appetites traditionally run as large as their stateas evidenced by the many barbecue enthusiasts who delightin perfecting the well-practiced craft of the pit. Andwhile our nation encourages healthy lifestyle choices whenit comes to food consumption, one cannot dismiss a particularof the Lone Star state’s many notorieties: peoplelove to eat.In the spirit of promoting both conscientious food preparationand consumption, especially during summertimewhen cookouts are the norm, food safety is the highlightthis week in the Air Force’s Critical Days of Summer campaign.At Randolph Air Force Base, the public health office,in Bldg. 1040, ensures the food consumed conforms toestablished health standards with monthly inspections ofevery facility that provides food services.Depending on the facility’s size and food volume, theinspection process can last one hour to more than twohours. The process is arduous yet refined, so Airmen andthe base populace can enjoy their meals worry-free.Airman 1st Class Edward Prato, 359th Aerospace MedicalSquadron food inspector, suggested food safety tips soRandolph members can prioritize their health.“Make sure the food you purchase is from an approvedRandolph Hispanic Heritage Month Golf TournamentThe Randolph Hispanic Committee is hosting the RandolphHispanic Heritage Month Golf Tournament Sept. 16 withregistration at 11:30 a.m. at the Randolph Oaks Golf Course.To register, email martha.giannotti@us.af.mil.NFL Pass, Punt and Kick programThe National Football League Pass, Punt and Kick programis hosting a national skills competition for children ages 6-15Saturday at 9 a.m. at Polo Field. For more information, callYouth Programs at 652-3298.Night constructionNight construction will begin at the Air Education andTraining Command headquarters, Bldg. 900, late Augustor early September. To minimize disturbance, disruptivework will be done during daytime hours.For more information, call the Pinnacle-Hunt HousingOffice at 659-9061.Gate closuresFifth Street East at the East Gate is closed to onelane through Saturday and South Gate Road at the SouthGate will be closed to one lane from Saturday throughSept. 11. Flagmen will be used to direct opposing trafficthrough the open lane.For more information, call Joseph Domeier at 508-2870.Base BRIEFSsource, such as the commissary,” Pratosaid. Similarly, Prato cautioned all notto openly accept food from unknownsources or individuals.Prato also suggested people usediscretion when choosing what andwhere they would like to eat.“Eat at facilities you think are sanitary,”he said. “Take a look at the kitchen,chef and workers to see if theyall look clean. If you don’t trustthem or see something unsanitary,don’t eat there.”Randolph members areencouraged to contact PublicHealth at 652-2456 to reportunsanitary practices.“That’s our job,” Pratosaid. “We’re here to makesure what you eat is safe. Ifyou don’t feel safe, then giveus a call.”Another food safety tip is to maintainfood temperature. Essentially, hotfood should be kept hot and cold food shouldbe kept cold. Food left out for an extended period of time,whether from the barbecue pit or the freezer, can formFeds Feed FamiliesThe Department of Defense is taking a leading role inthe nationwide campaign to challenge federal employeesto donate to local food banks.With the goal of donating five pounds of food perfederal employee, the last chance to donate food for FedsFeed Families is Wednesday at noon.Drop zones are located at various locations on base.Motorcycle safety classA free military motorcycle safety class takes place Wednesdayfrom 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Lackland Air Force Base, MedinaAnnex.The purpose of this event is to enhance motorcyclesafety and awareness within the military community, exposeparticipants to rider training opportunities and offera safe and controlled environment in which to challengeindividual riding skills.For more information, or to sign up, call 652-0667.To submit a news or sports brieffor publication in the Wingspread,email all information to 502ABW.pa.wingspread@us.af.mil.harmful bacteria and pose a serious health risk.Novices and frequent barbecue practitionersalike are recommended to have a thermometerin their arsenal to make sure food is properlycooked. For example, two barbecue meats ofchoice, beef and chicken, require unique temperaturethresholds: at least 165 degrees Fahrenheitfor chicken and at least 155 degreesFahrenheit for beef, to prevent bacteriasuch as salmonella and E. coli.These harmful bacteria arepotentially fatal, so preventingthem can save lives.Kindre Grams, 902ndForce Support Squadrondining facility project manager,added that utensilssuch as spatulas andtongs should be washedafter they touch raw meatso they do not cross-contaminateother food.Grams also shared a paramountfood safety tip, and perhapsfood safety’s golden rule:Courtesy photoillustration“It is absolutely necessary to wash your hands beforeand after you eat,” she said. “Wash, wash, wash."NOW SHOWING atthe Randolph Theater"Zoo Keeper" (PG)Kevin James, Rosario Dawson, Leslie BibbToday at 7 p.m."Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" (PG-13)Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert GrintSaturday at 6 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m.$4.50 for adults – $2.25 for children 11 and youngerRandolph Chapel Schedule• CATHOLICMonday-Friday11:30 a.m. - Bldg. 975Saturday5:30 p.m. - Bldg. 975Sunday8:30 a.m. - Bldg. 97511:30 a.m. - Bldg. 975ConfessionSaturday4:30 p.m. - Bldg. 975• PROTESTANTTraditionalSundayService8:15 a.m. - Base theaterContemporarySundayService11 a.m. - Base theater

PAGE 8 WINGSPREAD AUGUST 26, 2011AUGUST 26, 2011 WINGSPREADPAGE 9By Airman 1st Class Alexis Siekert502nd Air Base Wing OL-B Public AffairsWounded warriors from Brooke ArmyMedical Center took time off from their rigorousday-to-day rehabilitation Saturday tohave some fun in the sun and in the water.Operation Float a Soldier, a nonprofitorganization founded by Seth Warnickand Wes Garnett, and sponsored Saturdayby the 559th Flying Training Squadron,offers men and women recoveringfrom combat-sustained injuries, andtheir families, an opportunity to go toCanyon Lake to ride jet skis, go boating,swim and relax in the pavilionwith food and live entertainment.“Our mission is to benefit the woundedwarriors and families any way wecan,” Warnick said. “This is just a differentpart of their healing. We wanthelp them have some fun, and you cantell they are really having a great time.”OFAS started in 2005 when bothfounders expressed interest in givingback to those who give so muchon the battlefield, he said.“We started out as 'two guys and aboat' – just taking them out on our familybudget – but every year our programgrows,” Garnett said. “It has become a secondfull-time job, but it’s a labor of love.”The program operates solely on volunteerefforts and donations to host biweeklysummer events at Canyon Lake.Through donations, OFAS has been ableto buy four jet skis, while private boatowners bring their boats for the woundedwarriors’ use, the founders said.At each event, emergency medicaltechnicians and lifeguards are present forparticipants’ safety. Other accommodations,such as a cooled trailer, have alsobeen made for those with special needs.“All you need to sponsor the eventis time, 10 to 20 volunteers, and sidedishes and desserts,” Garnett said.“There is always a need for more peopleto participate, volunteer and donate.”After sponsoring an OFAS event lastyear, the 559th FTS enjoyed it so muchthey did it again, and this time theybrought their children so they could “seewhat it’s all about,” Lt. Col. Kevin Heyburn,559th FTW commander, said.“It doesn’t take much work,” Lt.Col. Brad Wensel, 559th FTS T-6instructor pilot and representativewith OFAS, said. “It’s just usmilitary helping our own and thankingthem for their sacrifice.”Volunteers work to set up, serve foodand clean up after the event; the rest ofthe time they are welcome to interactwith the guests and enjoy themselves.“What they do here is outstanding,”Army Spc. Sergio Lara, BAMC WoundedWarrior and frequent OFAS participant,said. “You can’t beat the familybonding time we get here. Everyonereally enjoys it. We have so much funand there is really nothing better thanbeing out here and on the water.”To get involved or make a donationto OFAS, call Wes Garnett at865-5646, Seth Warnick at 789-5899or go to www.floatasoldier.org.Don Brewer (right), Cow Patty Studios,sings songs to entertain wounded warriors,their family members and OperationFloat a Soldier volunteers at CanyonLake Aug. 20.Photos by Rich McFaddenOperation Float a Soldier volunteers provide boatrides and water sports for wounded warriors andtheir families at Canyon Lake Aug. 20.James Voss (in the water), Operation Float a Soldier volunteer,ferries wounded warriors and their family members to waitingboats for a tour of Canyon Lake Aug. 20.Army Specialist and wounded warriorSergio Lara and his son, Sergio Jr., ridea jet ski at Canyon Lake Aug. 20 duringOperation Float a Soldier.

PAGE 10WINGSPREADAUGUST 26, 2011Family liaison officers change livesBy Airman 1st Class Precious Yett502nd Air Base Wing OL-B Public AffairsFamily liaison officers provide support and professionalassistance to the families of active-dutymembers and wounded warriors when they’velost a loved one.“The FLO provides several services depending onfamily needs or the needs of the wounded warrior,”Chaney Ferguson, 902nd Force Support SquadronMortuary Affairs officer, said. “The family would beassisted with just about anything, from driving themfrom place to place to contacting agencies to help withquestions the family may have. The FLO assists so thefamily isn’t burdened with the frustrations of not knowingwhere to go for help.”FLOs are mostly assigned to active-duty deaths andthe wounded warrior program. However, the spouseof a deployed active-duty member could be assigned aFLO if a dependent of the active-duty member passesaway. A FLO could educate a spouse about what AirForce resources are available, which can also alleviatesome of the stress on the deployed active-duty member.Service members who are assigned to the families ofenlisted personnel are usually senior NCOs; a seasonedofficer, captain and above, are usually assigned to officers.The deceased member’s career field is also takeninto account.“It’s important to match skill levels as close as possible,”Ferguson said. “A seasoned Airman helps sincesenior NCOs and higher-ranking officers normally havethe feel or knowledge for what agencies would best suitthe needs of the family.”The FLO is not the expert or answer to all the familyneeds. However, the FLO should have the knowledge to" ... being a liaison is arewarding experience.Most FLOs will tell you thatthrough this they’ve notonly made a difference, butlifelong friends.”Chaney Ferguson902nd Force Support Squadron Mortuary Affairs officerknow where to go when the family needs help.“The hardest part of being a FLO is having to see thevictims in the condition they are in and seeing the familyin pain,” Master Sgt. Marcus Sidney, 902nd SecurityForces Squadron logistics superintendent said.Randolph’s FLOs are selected by the unit commanderand appointed by Col. Scott Peel, 902nd Mission SupportGroup commander, on behalf of Brig. Gen. TheresaCarter, 502nd Air Base Wing commander.“A few years ago it used to be mandatory for all unitsto have at least two FLOs trained annually,” Fergusonsaid. “However, the Air Force felt like this trainingwasn’t very useful since people come and go, plus anytraining received was normally forgotten and retrainingwhen a FLO was needed was the norm.”Once FLOs are appointed, they receive a 45-minutetraining, which includes a video, checklist and a briefing.When assigned as a FLO, according to AFI 34-1101,FLO duties become the service member’s primary dutyuntil completed.“Being a FLO can be stressful, since most still havea job to do, possibly a family at home, the uncertaintyof meeting a new person or family for the first timeand not knowing what to say to a grieving family,”Ferguson said.The FLO assists the family for as long as needed.Some cases take months while others last several days.The family lets the liaison know when their assistanceis no longer needed.“I suggest FLOs take time out for themselves,” Fergusonsaid. “You need to be there for the family, butthere’s always time to take for yourself and do somethingrelaxing. Don’t be afraid to talk with your peers,supervisors, chief, commander or chaplain. This is normal,but when all is said and done, being a liaison isa rewarding experience. Most FLOs will tell you thatthrough this they’ve not only made a difference, butlifelong friends.”Although being a FLO can be emotionally roughfor a service member, the rewards far outweighthe difficulties.“If you’ve never been a FLO before you have no ideawhat you’re about to embark upon,” Sidney said. “Iwould encourage future FLOs to come to the table withpatience and understanding. You have to make sureyou provide the right services to the family and you’vereally got to be careful what you say. Saying the wrongthings when a family is grieving could be catastrophicwhen trying to build a relationship and take care offamily. The most rewarding part is being able to meetthe needs of the family while they are dealing with thetraumatic event. They really appreciate it.”Base announces upcoming security policy change affecting deliveriesArea business delivery drivers, such as food andflower deliveries and taxis that service RandolphAir Force Base, will soon need more than a bill oflading or receipt to enter the installation.The new Joint Base San Antonio securitypolicy change will go into effect Oct. 1, and areabusinesses have until Aug. 31 to submit theirwritten request for base access once the policytakes effect.Details follow:• Prior to gaining access to the installation, employeeswill be vetted through the National CrimeInformation Center terminal.• Companies requesting regular access to Randolphmay request a long-term pass not to exceedsix months.• Requests must be made in writing using companyletterhead no later than Aug. 31.• Information required on requests includes employee’sname, driver's license number, days of theweek requiring access, and local office phone numberand email address.• After approval, the company will be contactedto request employees report to the RandolphVisitor Center to be photographed andissued a pass.• Once the pass is issued, the employee will presentthe pass to the installation gate guard to gainentry to Randolph on the days specified on the requestingletter.Businesses with questions should call MasterSgt. John Clowe, Randolph Air Force BaseSecurity, at 652-5968.

AUGUST 26, 2011 WINGSPREADPAGE 11For complete information on the Randolph Air Force Base Air Show 2011, including featured attractions,civilian base entry and parking, and security requirements, visit www.randolph.af.mil.

PAGE 12WINGSPREADAUGUST 26, 2011902nd Force Support Squadron Briefs

AUGUST 26, 2011 WINGSPREADPAGE 13SportsBRIEFS18-mile training runThe Rambler FitnessCenter hosts an 18-mile runSaturday at 6 a.m. at EberlePark for all runners trainingfor a marathon. This is thelast of the three marathontraining runs.Heroes RunThe Travis Manion Foundationhosts a 5K 9/11 HeroesRun Sept. 11 at 5 p.m. atMcAllister Park in San Antonioto honor the people wholost their lives that day. Thecost is $25 per person, whichincludes a T-shirt and otherprizes. For more information,email Aaron Recko at aaron.recko@gmail.com.Driving range hoursThe Randolph Oaks GolfCourse driving range is open24/7. Lighting is available atthe switch on the light pole.Golfers can purchase a fullbasket of balls for $6 or ahalf basket for $3.The pro shop offers a debitkey for the new golf ball machinewhere golfers can get 30 halfbaskets for $60. For more information,call 652-4570.Tee timeGolfers should sign upfor weekday tee times at theRandolph Oaks Golf Coursetwo days in advance.Drawings are held everyThursday for weekend tee times.Those wishing to participateshould include the number ofpeople in the group and whateach person’s status is (i.e. activeduty, retired, guest) and whattime your group would like toplay. Groups must have at leasttwo active-duty members toqualify for a priority tee time.To sign up for weekendtee times, email tee.time@randolph.af.mil. Emailsmust be received by 10 a.m.Thursday to be included inthe drawing.By David DeKunderNortheast Herald staff writerSPORTS – HEALTH – FITNESSRo-Hawk experience is key for return to playoffsWhen it comes to the misfortunesof the past two seasons,Randolph coach, Pete Wesp, is notone to dwell on the past.Wesp believes the Ro-Hawks,who are coming off back-to-backlosing seasons, including a 3-7record in 2010, are due to havebetter days ahead if they can stayhealthy and overcome inexperiencein the offensive line.The coach said he is telling hissquad to put the past behind themand focus on the upcoming season,which starts Friday when the Ro-Hawks host San Antonio Christianat Ro-Hawk Stadium. So far, Wespsaid, the Ro-Hawks are on the wayto doing that.“They need to come together asa unit,” Wesp said. “I think theyhave (so far).”Randolph returns a wealth of experienceon both sides of the ball. Onoffense, it starts with senior runningback Trey Washington, who returnsafter rushing for 718 yards and 12touchdowns last season. Washingtonis one of seven offensive starterscoming back, including quarterbackKendall Peoples, fullback ColeThompson and halfback Brett Grazetti– all seniors.Besides Washington, Thompsonwas the only other Ro-Hawk to rushfor over 500 yards last season, scoringfour TDs.Peoples has one year of experienceunder his belt and has improved inmany other areas, Wesp said.“Kendall has done a lot ofgrowing up,” the coach said. “Hehas matured. We are anxious tosee how he does during his senioryear. He is a lot stronger, physicallyand mentally.”Washington has the potential tobecome a 1,000-yard rusher thisseason. Whether he accomplishesthat goal will depend on an offensiveline Wesp describes as “green.”Center Louis Myrie and left guardSam Osborne, both seniors, and juniortight end Micah Jones are thereturning starters on the line.“I think (every team) in our district has everybodycoming back,” Wesp said. “I think the districtas a whole is stronger than a year ago.”Filling in the remaining offensiveline are junior tackles SamJones and Nick Ringler, at thetackles, and senior right guardTyler Pharris.“As a whole, they are verystrong kids,” said Wesp, referringto his offensive linemen. “Theyjust need to know what it is like(playing) on Friday nights.”A transfer, senior DominiqueWilliams, will be the starting widereceiver. Backing up Williams willbe seniors Ollie Jackson and JimmySherrod.Defensively, seven starters areback. Returning defensive startersinclude Jones and Myrie, who willstart at the defensive ends. Osborneand Ringler will play at the interiorline positions.All of the linebackers are comingback, including inside linebackersThompson and Dustin Phelps, a senior,and outside linebackers Washingtonand Grazetti.The secondary is Williams atsafety, and Damani Phillips, the onlyreturning defensive back. It’s a battlebetween Jackson and Sherrod forthe third defensive back spot.Wesp said he expects the defenseto improve on last season’s performance,when injuries depleted theunit, especially at linebacker.The George West Longhorns arefavored in pre-season polls to retaintheir District 13-2A Division I crown.Wesp said it should be a competitiverace for the final two playoff spotsthat will include Randolph, their rivalsCole, Jourdanton and Cotulla.“I think (every team) in our districthas everybody coming back,” Wespsaid. “I think the district as a wholeis stronger than a year ago.”Pete WespRandolph High School football coachPhoto by Don LindseyRandolph High School senior Louis Myrie (left) tackles Micah Jones,RHS junior, during preseason football practice Aug. 16.