Farewell From the Desk of the Chief of Services!

WHAT’S INSIDE
9
ovie, p.
rive In M
D
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e
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x
Ma
Chief’s Update
Responsibility
p. 2
Customer
Service
Corner
Customer Service
is your bread &
butter? p. 4
Social Media
Interesting facts
p. 9
Scoop
Air Education & Training Command / A1S
FINAL Issue
Spring 2012
Farewell From the Desk of the Chief of Services!
With the AF Services Transformation well underway this
is going to be our last edition
of our AETC A1S SCOOP
newsletter. To that end, I’d
like to personally thank Ms.
Jennifer Greenwood and
Ms. Lynda Cipollone for doing such a tremendous job
of compiling information and
laying it out each quarter.
This was a huge undertaking and they should be
commended for their efforts. Additionally I’d like to
thank you for your input because it allowed us to
showcase and share the outstanding programs and
services that you provide to our AETC Airmen and
their families.
Since I usually use this space to share leadership thoughts from our senior leaders, I thought I’d
close with a brief version of my very own “Leadership CI Style”. Over the years I have been blessed
to have some great leaders and mentors from
George DeCoux Sr, Harvey Faust, George Price,
Art Myers and countless others. They have molded
and shaped me into the leader and person that I
am today. They’ve taught me an assortment of
leadership tools that have saved me on countless
occasions and I’d like to offer just a few for your
potential use:
- Always do the right thing. A very simple phrase
but sometimes challenging to follow. If you always
do the right thing, you can always sleep at night
regardless of the consequences.
- Find a Mentor Be a Mentor. Regardless of your
age, find someone that you can learn from and at
the same time, find others to share what you learn.
- Grow future leaders. To ensure the long term
success of any organization we’ve got to be fully
committed to train others to take over when it’s our
time to move on to other things. Invest the time
to help others to gain the skill sets necessary to
succeed.
- Be a lifelong learner. You’re never too old to
learn something. Spend time reading articles
and books and even consider attending off-work
classes and seminars. Also consider participating
in professional military education (PME - e.g. Air
Command and Staff College, Air War College, etc.)
- Take care of yourself and your family. If you
don’t have your health, then you’ve really got very
little to offer the mission. Same applies for your
family.
- Be an innovator. With the challenges that lie before us, innovation, creativity and finding efficiencies and better ways of doing business will be the
norm. Constantly challenge yourself to find ways
that will increase your effectiveness.
- Have a great attitude. Attitude makes the difference. Just read any book on leadership and you’ll
find the person with passion and a great attitude is
the one that always rises to the top.
- Be a servant leader. Leadership guru Zig Ziglar
says that you “get more out of life by helping others
get what they want out of life”. Serve others and
great things will happen for you as well as them.
Although these may seem a bit cliché, I’ve not only
Coming Soon....
As the AETC A1S branch responsiblities
consolidate to the HQ Air Force Services
Agency Installation Support Directorate
(SVI) managers will use the following numbers/email to contact the team:
Sustainment-related issues (as of 1 Apr 12):
DSN 665-7000
Comm (210) 565-7000
POC: TSgt Johanna Sanchez
BETA Field Support Team:
DSN 969-1999
Comm (210) 395-1999
DSN 969-1000 Comm (210) 395-1000
BETA Resources & Requirements:
E-mail: [email protected]
Transition Timeline (subject to change)
Sustainment Services
Community Services
Marketing/Sponsorship
Family Services
Resource & Requirements
Full Operating Capability (FOC)
1 Apr 12
1 Jun 12
1 Jun 12
1 Aug 12
1 Aug 12
1 Oct 12
found them useful but the more simple they are,
the more effective they are to implement and make
them a part of your daily culture. These are some
of the basic tenants of “Leadership CI Style” and
I hope that you find some of them helpful. Also,
if you’ve never put your leadership philosophy to
paper, I suggest you do it and share it with others.
In closing, I’d like to pay tribute and thank each
and every member of our invaluable AETC/A1S
team. AETC has been extremely lucky to have
such a distinguished group of passionate MWR/
SVS/FSS professionals dedicated to meeting your
needs. It has been an honor and a privilege to
work with this team and I am truly blessed for
having served with them. Good luck to all of you
as we work together to make the United States Air
Force the very best it can be. Always remember
to take care of yourself, your family, your team as
well as our awesome Airmen.
Sustainment Services Branch
22
Thank YOU for the pleasure of serving AETC in clubs, golf cours-
Chief’s Corner
Greetings all of my fellow FSS Warriors,
As
time nears for me to transition from the Air Force
into civilian life, I would like to thank each of you for
what you do on a daily basis. The folks in FSS are awesome and
have been throughout my entire career. It is with both sadness and
anticipation that I write these remarks and prepare to transition into
the next phase of my life. My sadness comes from knowing that I
am leaving a career that I have loved for more than 29 years and
my anticipation is of the journey ahead of me. It has been an honor
and pleasure to have served with so many distinguished men and
women in and out of uniform. My life has been truly enriched because of you.
Today, I would like to leave you with a few things that helped me
keep the past several decades in perspective:
Accountability – We need to be accountable and hold our Airmen,
civilians and all who serve accountable … enforce the standards
Basics – We have to get back to the basics … start doing things
right if you want things to be better
Leadership is not positional – Leadership really doesn’t have anything to do with position per se, but it is in some ways a state of mind
Mentoring – Encourage leadership, professional & personal development and career progression in others, not just your friends …
we all benefit
Responsibility – Remember your position is not about power but the
responsibility you have to lead and guide others
• Always know the priorities
• Maintain Situational Awareness
• Use all TOs, checklists, AFIs, etc
• There are consequences for not fully complying
• Pay attention to details and fight complacency
• Stay engaged
A few last things, let Airmen and civilians do their jobs and remember we are all on the same team. Do not assume everyone knows
what you know: remember the goal is to work smarter not harder.
Finally, always carefully analyze every decision you make and understand the second and third order affects. It may not affect you,
but it will definitely affect others. I appreciate you allowing me to
share these things with you and hope they help you as much as
they have me.
Again, I would like to thank you for the high level of service and
excellence you provide every day. My heart is proud to know that
I served with so many great men and women. Della and I salute
you all and wish you much success in all of your future endeavors.
Our prayer is that God continues to bless and keep each and every
one of you.
CMSgt Gerald Z. Gooding
Chief Enlisted Manager
CONGRATULATIONS
Tyndall AFB Sports & Fitness
AF Sports & Fitness Program of the Year!
es, bowling centers, ITT, crafts/skills and outdoor recreation programs as
well as community centers, and dining facilities since Dec of 1995 after serving 24 years active duty in both MWR and Services career fields.
You have consistently met the challenges that were presented to you each
year and I can honestly say that I’ve always been proud of you and your
accomplishments. AETC activity managers and flight chiefs have always led
the way and as a Team, have created many base level programs that went
on to be Command and Air Force programs.
I expect you to continue that legacy. I have called many of you for assistance
in the past because you are the “boots on the ground” experts and have been
great counsel to me and the Command. I thank you for all that you have done and do. At this writing
I, along with the rest of A1S, do not know where I will complete my Services career. I’ll be somewhere
though and I’ll be cheering AETC along. Thank you all for making the past 16 years a wonderful tour.
(Mr. Tom Maxwell, AETC/A1SS)
GOOD NIGHT TO ALL
Yogi Berra, was a former and famous iconic
catcher who played almost his entire 19 year
baseball career for the New York Yankees. He
is perhaps one of the most quoted personalities of our time. One of his most recognizable
quotes remembered and still used today is “It
ain’t over ‘til it’s over.” Well, the time has come
and sadly “it is over” for HQ AETC Services and
our Sustainment Services Branch. The transfer
of work under Installation Support Centralization
has arrived. As part of the Secretary of Defense
efficiencies and streamlining efforts beginning 1
Oct 12, MAJCOM A1Ss will no longer function in
it’s traditional capacity. All Services related support now comes directly from HQ AFSVA. It’s
anticipated the Sustainment Services Branch,
A1SS will stand down on or about 1 Apr 12.
It all began for me with AETC in 1996 after serving three years with AFSVA. I’m proud to share
some of our accomplishment during this period.
It’s estimated our branch funded over $1M in club
programs and equipment to support the needs of
Airmen. Too many to name, but if you canvass
the bases I’m sure you will find our legacy is
stamped somewhere in the club at your base
either in the form of training, program funding, or
a piece of equipment. From NASCAR to Designated Driver, to NFL Sunday Ticket, program
guides, and even to rewarding club members
with holiday vacations and cruises we supported them all. In fact, you can even look to the
lights as a result of our “Operation Change Out”
program in 2009. Some programs were even
adopted by the Air Force and are still part of
today’s cooperate structure. We were also selected as the test command for Air Force studies
to include the Aloha point-of sales system and
the “U Choose” Card Choice program for clubs.
Since the implementation of the UBU and Take
It To The MAX programs in Apr 04 and Jan
05, respectively we’ve remained the lead command in overall club membership. Of particular
I’
-
importance and through our combined efforts to
date, we’ve recruited 24,078 Airmen and 987
2nd Lieutenants as our newest Air Force club
members. There is so much more to share and
so little space to put it. It’s estimated some 50 or
more programs were developed, distributed, and
funded since my arrival in 1996.
Other success came in the form of career development and advancement. Since my arrival
at least eight AETC club managers advanced
in their careers becoming Flight Chiefs, Deputies or selected in a senior leadership role at
other commands within Services or the Force
Support Structure. What an accomplishment for
those individuals.
Lastly, and during my time with the command,
128 Services professional, in all the branches
and divisions of HQ AETC Services Directorate/
Division have come and gone through our command Services doors. All of them proudly provided support, guidance, and recommendation
for the betterment of making the AETC family
what it is today. We applaud all of them.
So, the time has come Yogi, yes, “it is over.”
Please allow me to take this opportunity to say
“thanks to all of you” for the tremendous support you’ve offered and provided to me during
my time with AETC Services. Not everything we
tried was successful but not everything we did
was unsuccessful either. We held together and
we provided what we believed were the best
in programs and services for our Airmen, their
families, and the communities we serve each
and every day. You are all the “best” at what
you do. The future presents a whole new set
of challenges for all of us but as in the past our
confidence gives us the ability to step up and
take them on. Thanks, keep doing all those good
things, and wishing everyone all the best. Good
night to all. (Mr. Steve Cowan, HQ AETC/A1SS)
t s been a pleasure To the HQ Manpower Personnel & Services and base Force
Support Squadron team members, friends and co-workers it has been my pleasure serving with you.
Since my arrival to AETC in Sep 2001, together we have met or exceeded goals and expectations,
which equates to supporting the AF Mission.
There is no doubt that AETC has the most professional and dedicated members that believe in exceeding guest expectations when it comes to customer service. I wish you all continued success, joy and
happiness. This is not good bye but…I will see you around. Sincerely, Terry Prudhomme (AETC/A1SS)
Community Services Branch
So Long, Farewell, Auf Wiedersehen, Adios, Ciao, Au Revoir,
See You Later!
Change is inevitable and sometimes hard to accept but we must embrace it, move forward and
make the best of it! I have truly enjoyed the last four years working at AETC; in fact it is the
best assignment of my career. The reason is because of the great people I come in contact with
daily…. all of you…. the folks who make things happen at base level. I appreciate having had the
opportunity to work with each of you…. you are the best marketing folks in the Air Force! You
truly made my job enjoyable. I hope in some small way, I have helped all of you, even if it was
just to listen when needed. Again, heartfelt thanks for all you do and please keep taking care
of our troops and their families. In “our” world of Services, I am sure our paths will cross again.
(Lynda Cipollone AETC Marketing Director)
THIS IS NOT GOODBYE!
It has been a pleasure and honor to work with you all for
the past 10 years. We had some ups and downs during our
tenure together, but in the end we are all still friends, and
very proud of the work we have accomplished together for
the troops. I don’t like to say good-bye, so I will say see you
all round the water cooler somewhere down the line. “Merry
Christmas”! (Susan Jackowski, AETC Golf & Bowling Specialist)
TO RECREATE…
Throughout my 23-year career as an Air Force Recreation Specialist, it has been my goal to
promote the importance of recreational activities and how they help to create a balance between
work and personal life. My dedication to recreation goes far beyond the
job title.
When most people think of recreation, it’s usually a fun game or relaxing outdoor activity that comes to mind, such as a walk through the
park or a game of Frisbee. The word recreation actually comes from the
Latin word “recreare” which means to create anew, refresh, to “recreate” ourselves. Some forms of recreation can be challenging, maybe
even something that we are approaching with trepidation, but know
they will make us stronger and help us perform better down the road.
For example, a 20-mile training run leading up to your first marathon,
which once completed, gives a renewed sense of confidence going into
the big race.
In much the same way that we need to periodically recreate ourselves, Services, as we know
it, is also recreating itself. This is an evolution that many of us have seen throughout the years
as MWR transitioned into Services and then into FSS. Change is inevitable, but approaching
change with a positive attitude makes all the difference. Always remember that our recreation
programs undoubtedly help our Airmen achieve a fit and healthy lifestyle. These programs help
with stress management and build a sense of community. Although the Air Force climate is
changing, let’s continue every effort to make recreation an important part of our installations,
especially for the younger Airmen who cannot always afford to take part in more costly off-base
activities.
I truly feel fortunate to have met many of you and will definitely miss working with you from
the MAJCOM! Thank you all for your dedicated efforts. Working here has been an incredible
experience, with incredible people, and has taught me so much about myself, AETC, and the
Air Force. Wishing you all the best! (Denise Rossignol, AETC Recreation Specialist)
Snow Comes to South Texas
Debbie Milner, Lackland Marketing Director
It was an unusual sight at Lackland AFB in San Antonio, TX; over 500
Airmen and their families went slip-sliding down 48,000 pounds of snow.
The FSS outdoor amphitheater’s long, steep hill proved to be the perfect
place for an exciting sled run. Participants’ laughter and screams of delight
could be heard as they raced down the run during the four-hour event. The
huge turnout proved that “snow sells”.
In addition to sledding, a giant race track for remote-controlled cars and a
bouncy castle were all available free of charge. Hosted by Arnold Hall Community Center, this
first-ever event proved to be a hit with the community, and plans are already in the making for
next year’s Snow Day to be even bigger and better.
33
CONGRATULATIONS
Lackland AFB Bowling Center
AF Bowling Program of the Year!
It’s A Wrap (Almost)
The time draws near where AETC/A1S will cease to exist (due to the MAJCOM centralization)… it’s a bittersweet
moment for all of us. Very sad to be leaving the positions
we dearly love and the fantastic managers/coordinators we
have at our bases – but on the other hand, change is kind
of exciting. Learning a new job, meeting new people, taking
on new challenges….
As a military spouse, I am used to changing jobs every few years – in fact, I actually begin to crave change
after three or four years. Interesting fact…. by the time
the AFSVA Installation Support Directorate stands up in
October I will be just over four years as the AETC command commercial sponsorship manager. It seems fate has
stepped in and given me the opportunity for the change I
would be craving this year; I’m just going to embrace it and
hope for the best.
Over the last 3+ years I have gotten to know many of the
AETC sponsorship coordinators and marketing managers.
I truly believe AETC has the BEST of the BEST and I will
miss you all very much. Please keep doing what you do,
don’t get discouraged and use each other as a sounding
board once Lynda and I move on.
Although my future is uncertain, I’m sure I will land where
I’m “supposed to” (per FATE’s opinion)…. I’m not even sure
if I’ll remain with the government. It would be hard for me
to leave the military community for a job outside the gates,
especially after a 15-year career working with MWR/Services/FSS but, as a NAF employee I must move on and
find my own positions to apply for and as many of you can
relate – it’s not always that
easy.
Times have changed over
the last 10 years, each
time I’ve left a position
I’ve lost touch with many
of the friends I made…
this time it’s different, we
have Facebook, Google+,
Twitter or whatever the new platform will be, or we can
just keep in touch periodically the old-fashioned way… by
“email”! Please find me on one of the social media sites or
shoot me an email once in a while! Good luck in all you do!
(Jennifer Greenwood, AETC Sponsorship Manager)
4 4
Resources & Requirements
“May you live in interesting times”
- unknown
At my last assignment, we searched for a new vision that wrapped the entire essence of FSS into an simple understandable
phrase that was applicable to the Airmen in MPF or the civilian in the CDC. After lively discussion and many revisions we ended
up with “We make lives better...its what we do!” Despite all the upcoming changes in our community I truly believe this describes
what an FSS does today and it describes the essence of what we will do tomorrow. We may just do it through different programs,
different methods and with different resources.
As we depart, my hope is that the changes facing FSS are not feared, but rather embraced and put into a healthy context because it isn’t about HOW we do things it is about WHAT we do...and WHAT we do is...
“We make lives better...its what we do!” - David Jenkins (Chief, Resources and Requirements Branch)
Just shy of 20 years with AETC
I’ve been
assigned
to AETC
Services
since Aug
1993 and
I’ve loved
every minute of it. Whether
working training, personnel
or facility issues, it has been
my pleasure to work with, but
more than anything, for some
of the greatest, most professional people in the Air Force.
We may not have a wartime
mission in AETC because we
‘just train’ but without you that
mission would not get accomplished because we prepare for service the current
and future leaders.
As I write this, I have no idea
where I’ll end up when my job
on the staff is over, but my
longing, my prayer is to continue working within Services.
The people of Services truly
As I close another chapter
our Services family, I want to thank all
of the NAF HR and Unit Training staff
for the opportunity to work with a team
of professionals providing exceptional
service to the FSS squadron. We have
been through many challenges and
changes over the past few years, and
you have always provided that extra effort to manage your workload and “take
care of the troops.” My assignment at
AETC has been personally rewarding due to the support and friendships
we have encountered along the way.
Again, many thanks and I wish you
continued success and enjoyment.
touch the lives of every AF
member and their families
from cradle to grave. We on
the A1S team have worked
hard to serve you, but the
base-level Services team
works conscientiously, daily
and often into the night hours
to improve the lives of every
member of the AF family. All
who know a Services team
member knows they work
hours no other unit is willing to work because they feel
with
(Bonnie Sanderson, AETC Human Resources
& Training)
What is Great Customer Service?
their mission is to serve. They
have a camaraderie that you’ll
find in no other organization.
It is all about providing great
customer service.
Most of you know that as
much as I liked training and
personnel and as much as
I love the facilities program,
doing Customer Service
seminars was, and is, my
passion. Nothing gets me
more enthused than sharing
what great service does for
the people we serve. Many
people in today’s society look
down on a ‘service industry’
job because they don’t comprehend the thrill of providing
quality of life improvements
to an audience of deserving
customers; they would not
survive in our industry.
Whatever my lot in life, I’ll always know that I’ve worked
with champions, I’ve been
blessed to know the best, and
I’ll always have the fondest
memories of Team Services
wherever I go. God’s richest
blessings are my prayer for
you. (Bill Middleton, A1SR)
Academic Support Building, Student Activity Center
Usher
in a Modern Era of Recreation, Leisure
By Deyanira room Rossell, 502nd FSS Marketing
As the last remnants of the Hacienda Recreation Center turn to dust, the ground beneath it will settle and again hold a structure
that will serve generations of troops who
pass through Fort Sam Houston. Coming
in 2013, two new 502nd Force Support Squadron facilities will open their doors on the
Medical Education and Training Campus (METC) — the Academic Support Building
(ASB) and the Student Activity Center (SAC), ushering in a modern era of recreation
and leisure on the historic post.
The ASB will boast a sprawling 20,848 square feet with 9,192 square feet dedicated to
a “mega room” with seating for 980 people, fulfilling the campus’ need for graduations
and special functions. A total of 5,400 square feet will be dedicated to administrative
space including 23 personnel cubicles, accommodating incontinued on page 7
Customers Are Your Bread & Butter
Return on Customer emphasizes trust as the key to building customer value. “Repeat after us: The only value your
company will ever create is the value that comes from customers – the ones you have now, and the ones you will
have in the future. To create value, you must put yourself in the customer’s shoes, understand the customer’s
needs, and then act accordingly. Ultimately, this requires you to earn your customer’s trust. What value does
the customer get? The customer, too, must weigh long-term as well as short-term factors, assessing the value
Customer
he gets from his relationship with you. And for the customer, such a relationship will be of the most value if
he feels he can trust you to respect his interests as if they were your own. The fact is that maximizing your
Service
return on a customer and maximizing the customer’s trust are quite similar tasks. ... Understanding what
Corner
customers need from you — figuring out what motivates your customers — is a boardroom issue, because it
is vital to your firm’s long-term success.” Excerpt from Customerthink.com, “Valuing Customer Value”
5
Airman & Family Services
Farewell
On behalf of the AETC/A1SA Team, it has been a pleasure serving and learning
from you as we have visited and talked over the days, the months, and the years.
Your contributions and commitment to providing our Air Force families with quality
services and programs is deeply appreciated. There is no doubt you will continue
to succeed as you help those at the heart of our military mission! Although we will
miss our direct connection, we will all continue to be a part of the same purpose.
We will be in touch through this transition and into the future. We are proud to have
been a part of each of your professional lives!
CONGRATULATIONS
Lackland AFB Airman & Family Readiness Center
AF A&FRC Program of the Year!
“What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments,
but what is woven into the lives of others.” ~ Pericles
and
Luke AFB Family Child Care
AF FCC Program of the Year!
Calling all Airman & Family Readiness Center
(A&FRC) Consultants!
Are you Thinking about doing “The
Deid?”
You’ve seen the announcements on the Air Force
Family Integrated Results Statistical Tracking System (AFFIRST) - you’ve been TDY and have seen
the recruitment slides, but you’re still not sure.
Should you put your name in the hat for a chance
to deploy to the Airman Readiness Center (ARC)
at Al Udeid? We think so!
Currently, AETC has TWO civilian assets assigned
to the Al Udeid ARC. Ms. Sandra Gray from the
A&FRC at Luke AFB, and Mr. Rick Tomaskovic
from the Goodfellow A&FRC! They are consultants
who are making a difference! They’ve put together
a Top Ten list about why others should consider a
deployment to “The Deid”:
10) This could be you!!
9) During down time, there is lots to do!
8) It’s like a cruise in many ways: Has its up
and downs but once on board, there’s no going back! Best of all…there is free DFAC (dining
facility) which supplies food all day long.
7) If the DFAC is not your thing, Dairy
Queen, Arby’s, Taco Bell, Subway, Burger King, and Pizza Hut are here too!
6) You’ll make a lot of new friends and
maybe even run into some old ones!
5) The Cadillac will become your biggest
daily challenge.
4) No need to think about what to wear
every day, your wardrobe is planned!
3) Can you say, “lots of sunshine”. No
kidding, there are two pools on base!
2) The Community Readiness Consultation concept is in action and allows an awesome opportunity to provide various services from finance
questions to reintegration, pre-separation counseling appointments, resume questions and lots
of outreach!
1) The opportunity to experience the military deployment cycle will bring you a great deal of
satisfaction and a better understanding of not
only what the A&FRC is all about, but offers
excellent insight to the deployment cycle – you’ll
have first-hand experience when working with
your pre and post deployment customers!
From your AETC/A1SA TEAM, THANK YOU to
ALL AETC A&FRC RNCOs and Civilians for serving in the AOR – you are truly making a great
difference!
2012 ANNUAL AFRC AWARDS
The 2011 AETC Heart Link Program of the Year Award was
recognized at this year’s AETC
Symposium in January. The Airman & Family Readiness Center at Goodfellow AFB, TX is
recognized for their innovative
ways of reaching the Air Force’s
newest spouses. The idea is to
help spouses understand the Air
Force mission and culture. The
Pictured left to right: Gen Edward A. Rice, Jr,
award recognizes the A&FRC’s
HQ AETC/CC, Col Paul A. Bugenske, 17 MSG/
CC, and CMSgt James Cody, HQ AETC/CCC
accomplishment in reaching that
goal, while encouraging innovation and that extra initiative it takes to build a diverse program that contributes
to the overall mission. On behalf of the A&FRC, Col Paul A. Bugenske, 17
MSG/CC accepted the award.
The 2011 AETC Key Spouse
Award Winner is Ms. Mary K.
Anderson from the 455 FTS,
Pensacola FL. Each year, the
winner demonstrates they have
established a solid Key Spouse
program within their unit. This
year’s recipient is recognized by
her leadership for the outstanding accomplishments and contributions provided to families,
Pictured left to right: Gen Edward A. Rice, Jr,
HQ AETC/CC, Mary Anderson, Key Spouse,
which have also helped to build
455th Flying Training Squadron, and CMSgt
cohesion. Ms. Anderson is recJames Cody, HQ AETC/CCC
ognized for her selfless dedication not only to the 455 FTS, but to the Pensacola community as a whole!
She was able to join us in January at the AETC Symposium to receive this
highly deserved award.
Around the Bases...
6
The Glampire Gala – A Pampered Affair
Is
By Ms. Alicia J. Ballor – 97 FSS Marketing Director
14 FSS Leads With HEART
By Jana Hall, 14 Force Support Squadron
On Valentine’s Day, Columbus AFB’s 14th Force Support
Squadron, along with Colonel Scott Frickenstein, Commander, 14th Mission Support Group, kicked off a new
“HEART” customer service initiative to tie in with the ongoing Interactive Customer Evaluation (ICE) program.
The revamped customer service campaign stems from
Colonel Frickenstein’s commentary in the Dec. 16 edition
of the base newspaper in which he states, “H-E-A-R-T
captures what each member of the 14th Mission Support
Group aims to provide each of our customers: a Helpful
attitude, Eye contact and an Audible welcome when you
come into our facilities, Respect, and Thanks for being
our guest.”
Each employee wears a pin that says “I have HEART” and
is encouraged to hand out business cards setting out our
promise to each customer: a helpful attitude to meet their
needs; eye contact that says, “I value you, and I am listening”; an audible greeting to customers as they enter the
office/facility; respect in treating each as we would want to
be treated; and a “thank you” for doing business with us.
The cards also encourage patrons to log onto our Web
site, use the ICE program and let us know how we are
doing in servicing their needs. As an additional benefit,
folks who want to share their input are driven to the event
marketing on www.cafbfssrocks.com.
Plans are in the works for a secret shopper program offering employee incentive prizes for those who best present
the essence of HEART to our patrons, along with a revitalized customer incentive program for those who offer their
feedback on ICE.
H.E.A.R.T.
there a woman who
doesn’t like to be pampered? Even just a little? That
was our goal at Club Altus
on October 20th. Well, that
and to get everyone in the
Halloween spirit for our Hallowscream Bash later that
month! Weeks of planning
culminated in one four-hour
event that was a huge hit.
Women walked away satisfied, and asking when the
next Girl’s Night Out would be.
Mother’s Day, maybe?!
Club Manager, Ms. Marlene
Diaz, got to work straight
away decorating the Club
ballroom in shades of red and
black. Red and black balloon
arches greeted the ladies as
they made their way into the
event, red and black tablecloths covered every surface.
The stage was artfully decorated with more balloons and
streamers in white and silver,
providing a proper display area
for the many gifts donated
for door prizes. Sheer gauze
hung from crystal chandeliers,
creating an ambiance unparalleled. Mr. Nate Covington,
the Club Altus Catering Manager, outdid himself with the
dazzling array of finger foods
and appetizers, displayed on
platters and in bowls with
white wisps of smoke drifting
all around, giving the aura of
an old-time horror moving. He
certainly succeeded in showing off just what Club Altus
has to offer in the way of catering services.
As ladies entered, they were
handed their goody bags, valued at over $60, and used
those to carry and hold all
the excitement they were sure
to get as the night wore on.
For some, the goody bags
weren’t near roomy enough
for the many purchases they
made. Scentsy boxes, Joyce
Miranda make-ups, jewelry
from Lia Sophia, Mary Kay
bags and more could be seen
around the room as the ladies
mingled, chatted and enjoyed
a night out that was just for
them. Other ladies didn’t
merely purchase items, they
got their eyebrows waxed,
bangs trimmed, hands massaged and tried on shoes. For
four solid hours, these ladies
were given every luxury we
could think of.
They did more than merely
walk around and shop, we
sent them on a scavenger
hunt too! In their event guides,
was the name of every vendor
at the Glampire Gala. Their
job was to have each vendor
sign off their guide after they’d
seen what that vendor had to
offer. Afterward, they brought
their guide to the Marketing
Table, where they were registered for our distribution lists
and entered to win the grand
prize – a bracelet from Lia
Sophia valued at $130.
And what party would be
complete without good music?
Mr. Covington doubled as DJ,
providing the soundtrack for
the night. Occasionally, Ms.
Diaz would break into the music to make her way around
the event, talking to the vendors oohing and ahhhing over
the cupcakes being sold by
Babycakes Bakery and even
trying on a pair of Vibram
Five-Finger shoes. And she
gave away prizes, of course.
All in all, the ladies enjoyed
themselves greatly. Pre-sales
were a huge success with
some ladies buying tickets
for their entire offices, husbands buying tickets for wives
or girlfriends coming in to get
their tickets together. It’s safe
to assume that our next event
will be even greater now that
the community knows what
kind of party Club Altus can
throw – especially one that’s
all for the ladies!
DRIVE-IN MOVIE
By Amy Morris, 42 FSS Marketing and Publicity
Maxwell AFB families experienced an old fashion tradition Friday, Nov. 14 when the Cypress Tree Golf Course
hosted a drive-in movie right on the driving range.
The early fall weather was just right for outdoor movie
viewing as more than 60 adults and children from Maxwell and Gunter bundled up with coats and blankets and settled back in golf
carts to watch the family friendly movie “Cars 2” on a giant blow up screen.
Attendees snacked throughout the movie on hotdogs, popcorn and sodas available for
purchase from the golf course.
Maxwell Air Force Base Annual Retiree Appreciation Day By Amy Morris, Marketing and Publicity
Veterans enjoy bingo at Retiree Day
Retirees were honored for their service Friday, November 18 at Maxwell AFB. This base-wide event brought
in more than one thousand retirees from all over the Montgomery and surrounding areas.
The Maxwell Clinic provided free health screenings, blood pressure checks and flu shots. A lunch of hotdogs
and hamburgers fresh off the grill was provided for retirees and their guests and a delicious cake was served
for dessert. Numerous veterans enjoyed playing bingo and meeting fellow retirees. More than thirty lucky recipients won door prizes which included items such as spa treatments, ballet tickets, rounds of golf, tickets to
the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, one-year subscription to the Montgomery Advertiser newspaper and many
local restaurant and store gift certificates. Several vendors from on and off base attended the event to show
their support and inform retirees of the many benefits available to them in the local area.
No Federal Endorsement of Sponsors Intended
7
Around the Bases...
Whodunit at the Harlequin
By Deyanira Romo Rossell, 502 FSS Marketing, Joint Base San Antonio, Fort Sam Houston
Who killed Mrs. Boyle? The real question
is who wouldn’t kill Mrs. Boyle? The
annoying old bitty is rude, arrogant and
nosy, played perfectly by Rose CohenBrown who starred in “The Mousetrap.”
Based on a short story written by British
author Agatha Christie, “The Mousetrap”
played to sold out crowds at the Harlequin
Dinner Theatre on Fort Sam Houston.
“It has been exhilarating to work with such
a talented cast for this play,” said Robert Olivas, Harlequin Dinner Theatre director. “Their hard work has made for a successful run with audiences
packing the Harlequin to enjoy dinner and a great murder mystery,” he added.
“The Mousetrap” is set in the 1950’s. In true Christie-form, seven characters are suspects, each harboring a mysterious side. Matthew Tejeda-Garcia
and Emily Sanders play Giles and Mollie Ralston, innkeepers who welcome four new guests, including Mrs. Boyle. Miss Casewell played by Sara
Christiansen, Major Metcalf played by Pete Sanchez and Mr. Wren, played by Ritchie Diego Valenzuela, also check in to Monkswell Manor. Snowed
in, the group finds out from the local newspaper that a murderer is on the loose in town and all leads indicate he is one of the guests staying at the
very inn owned by the Ralstons. It isn’t long before Detective Sgt. Trotter, played by Mollie Gilley, skis in to solve the mystery.
“We are seeing more and more troops at our productions at the Harlequin. We are thrilled to offer them this high quality entertainment as they take
a little bit of time to relax,” said Olivas.
The longest running play of any kind, Christie’s “The Mousetrap” has been performed in more than 40 countries. Traditionally, the audience is asked
not to reveal the twist ending so as not to spoil the play for future audiences. The Harlequin will begin packing the house again for a new production,
“A Few Good Men,” which will run from May 10 to June 9. The Harlequin Dinner Theatre is on Harney Road, Building 2652. The number to the historic
theater is (210) 222-9694.
Photos. Left: The Proprietor of Monkswell Manor, Mollie Ralston (Emily Sanders) and Detective Sgt. Trotter have a cliffhanger moment in the “The Mousetrap,” an Agatha Christie whodunit playing at the Harlequin
Dinner Theatre; Middle: Major Metcalf (Pete Sanchez) arrives at Monkswell Manor and is greeted by Mollie Ralston (Emily Sanders), a sweet proprietor, who could also be a murderer; Right: Monkswell Manor
proprietor, Giles Ralston (Matthew Tejeda-Garcia) greets Mrs. Boyle (Rose Cohen-Brown) at his inn, which quickly becomes a murder scene in the Harlequin Dinner Theatre’s production of “The Mousetrap.”
Academic Building, continued from page 4
and-out processing. The SAC features a total of 59,521 square feet,
with every inch devoted to providing service members with choices in
entertainment, relaxation, dining and
even creative endeavors.
“The eastern portion of the Student
Activity Center is a three-story club
reflecting a ‘Dave & Busters’-style
atmosphere,” said Justin Kurz, the
project engineer with U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers on Fort Sam
Houston, who is the lead on the
project.
The bottom floor of the SAC, Level
0, will have a large open dance floor,
DJ area, large beverage station,
and substantial seating as well as
an outdoor patio with more seating
and an area for live bands to perform, both inside and outside. The
building’s service facilities, including
a loading dock, walk-in refrigerators
and coolers, mechanical and electrical rooms, restrooms, and IT rooms,
as well as an employee break room,
is located on this level. Level 1 will
house a 10,000-square-foot gaming area including billiards, foosball,
a gaming lounge with arcade games,
as well as Wii, Xbox and Playstation.
“Level 1 is the primary ‘at-grade’ level that has the combined function of
club and multi-purpose student activities,” Kurz said. Level 1 also will
have musical instrument checkout
and practice rooms, a mini-theatre
exterior covered patio overlooking
both the lower level patio, and a fullservice kitchen, food court and coffee bar area. Service members also
will enjoy a large living room/lounge
area with couches, chairs, and televisions, a multipurpose room for
crafts, meetings, and miscellaneous
student functions. Finally, outside on
Level 1, troops will be able to hang
out and relax on the large exterior
front porch.
“I’m excited to provide such a fun atmosphere for the students away from
their daily grind of getting into formation, going to classes and doing PT,”
Kurz said. “Here, they can kick back
and relax. It is right in the middle
of the campus. So, they’ll have a
place to go right across the street
from their classrooms as soon they
get out of class,” he added.
Level 2 includes a 1,677-square-foot
outdoor “rooftop” patio area and beverage station. A 7,600-square-foot
student business center, adminis-
trative support offices, a “cybrary,”
and chaplain’s offices round out this
level.
The new SAC will host the popular
ethnic celebrations that were held
yearly at the Hacienda, and will allow the shows to go on including
the Festival of the Arts and Operation Rising Star, also big hits at the
old facility. The facilities will go up at
the corner of Garden and Corporal
Johnson Roads directly in front of
Smith Hall and Anderson Hall.
Part of the Base Realignment and
Closure process, the new facility is
set to accommodate the influx of students training at Fort Sam Houston.
At any given day, as many as 7,000
new trainees make the post home
at least for a little while. The SAC,
Building 1477, will cost $19,945,620
and is slated for completion Feb. 24,
2013, with an opening date of April
11, 2013. The ASB, Building 1467,
will cost of $10,739,245, and is expected to be completed on Jan. 20,
2013, with an opening date of March
21, 2013.
Congratulations
to the Team at Maxwell’s Cypress Tree Golf Course for being recognized as one of
Play Golf America’s Top 100 Performers in 2011! A total of 32 PGA Sections are represented, with 19 PGA/LPGA Professionals appearing for
a second consecutive year, while three charitable organizations, including The First Tee, are represented. The PGA conducts an analysis using
an objective formula measuring performance results for Get Golf Ready, junior golf/PGA Sports Academy, Free Lesson Month, Free Fitting &
Trade-Up Month, Family Golf Month, and women’s golf. All of the recipients were recognized at the 59th PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando,
FL. Congrats to Ricky Magers and the entire Cypress Tree GC team!
8 8
Around the Bases...
Maxwell Community Library Moves To New Home!
By Amy Morris, Marketing and Publicity
Maxwell Community Library opened the
doors to their new home Monday, November 28 in building 910 on Shumacher
Avenue.
The new location allows for the library to
grow from approximately 7,800 square
feet to 13,484 square feet. The library’s
interior received brand new shelving,
carpet and furniture for its many different
sections. There are even plans for a coffee shop on the library’s main floor.
One of the main additions to the library
is the separate rooms allocated to children of different ages. The glass walls
surrounding each room allow patrons to
see what is going on inside each section while the doors insure a quite atmosphere. Each section has special features designed to appeal to kids of all
ages.
The youth area features a wonderful interactive sculpture called “The Learning
Tree” that reaches from floor to ceiling.
This hollow structure invites children to
walk into its trunk, sit on a toadstool and
read a favorite book.
The teen area includes flat screen televisions and Nintendo Wii game systems
guaranteed to be a hit.
The library also provides an updated
media room and two conference rooms
that are available to base personnel for
meetings and events.
A ribbon cutting ceremony for the new
library was held Thursday, December 8
and provided refreshments, entertainment and activities for all base personnel
and their families.
U.F.O
TAKES OFF AT MAXWELL
By Amy Morris, Marketing and Publicity
Maxwell AFB’s FamCamp and
Base Lakes hosted the annual
Ultimate Family Outing (UFO)
Friday, September 30. More
than 300 people attended the
event that provided many family friendly activities and overnight camping.
To kick off the event, staff
members were on hand to help
families pitch their tents while
canoes were available for people to take quite evening rides
out onto the lake. Children enjoyed jumping in a giant bouncy
castle, sliding down the huge
blow up slide and taking turns at the paintball station. One of
the biggest attractions was a water balloon sling shot competition where kids tried to hit “Captain Jack”, a staff member
dressed as a pirate. Kids took great enjoyment in trying to pelt
Jack with water balloons as he took refuge in his pirate clad
jon boat.
Dinner was provided by Papa John’s Pizza, and at dusk families were treated to a movie under the stars. Everyone enjoyed
watching the movie “Gnomeo and Juliet” on a giant blow up
screen while snacking on popcorn. After the movie families
roasted hotdogs and smores over the campfire while the second movie, “Mars Needs Moms” was set up. In the morning,
overnight campers were treated to Krispy Kreme donuts, a
variety of juices, milk and coffee.
No Federal Endorsement of Sponsor Intended
Nathan’s Cart Rolls Out Taste of New York
By Deyanira Romo Rossell, 502 FSS Marketing
If patriotism had a taste, it would be
a warm frankfurter in a bun covered
with mustard and ketchup. In the case
of Nathan’s Famous Frankfurters, add
sauerkraut for a Coney Island-style
dog or peppers for a Chicago-style
dog. Not just an ordinary hot dog
will do for the troops on Fort Sam
Houston. So, Nathan’s Famous, or
as they say, “more than just the best
hot dog,” is rolling off the cooker at
the Sam Houston Community Center.
“The Nathan’s cart is especially
attractive to people from the East
Coast, like New York and Chicago.
They immediately recognize the brand
and get excited. It takes them home,”
said Manuel Valdez, director of the
Sam Houston Community Center.
Valdez, a native of San Antonio is
accustomed to “carne asadas” or
barbecues, but is now also a huge
fan of Nathan’s hot dogs. Since the
Lone Star State and San Antonio
are known in particular for their spicy
foods, Valdez and his team have
put a Texas twist on Nathan’s, the
Warrior Dog. Covered in jalapeños,
onions and chili, the Warrior Dog is
not for the sensitive pallet.
“The Warrior Dog is a big hit with
those troops who want a spicier
frankfurter,” Valdez said.
It’s no surprise however, that the
Armed Forces favorite is the AllAmerican Dog, which leaves the
toppings to the consumer. Since
the Nathan’s cart started serving
frankfurters on Fort Sam last July,
about 5,000 have been sold to the
troops.
“I’ve been waiting for the community
center to re-open because it is in
walking distance. It’s nice to have a
great place to eat here now,” said
Sgt. Marie Hinkle, sinking her teeth
into one of Nathan’s famous all beef
hot dogs at the grand opening of the
cart.
The cart’s home, the Sam Houston
Community Center, has been
remodeled and also offers a pool
table, gaming, Wi-Fi and a game
room. Most recently, the dogs were
part of the Super Bowl celebration at
the Sam Houston where about 500
student service members spread out
to watch the big game on the sixteen
70-inch LCD TVs and two projectors
there.
The cart purchased for Fort Sam by
HQ AETC Services, also goes to
the action, including the Combatives
Tournaments at the Jimmy
Brought Fitness Center,
the 502nd Force Support
Squadron Back to School
Bash at the Keith A. Campbell
Memorial Library and the
232nd Medical Battalion’s
Commander’s Cup in a field
next to their headquarters. The
Nathan’s cart also was also the
center of attention for the March
Final Four Championship party
and celebrations for the 4th of July
and Memorial Day festivities.
Nathan’s Famous was founded by a
Polish immigrant, Nathan Handwerker,
in 1916 with a small hot dog stand in
Coney Island, New York. He sold hot
dogs that were manufactured based
on a recipe developed by his wife,
Ida.
Today, they are served in all 50
states at 40,000 food service and
retail outlets, including Fort Sam
Houston, Texas where troops and
their families have come to love a
little taste of Coney Island.
9
Around the Bases...
Militar y Saves Week
On Tue, Feb 21, Team Goodfellow celebrated the kick-off of
the Military Saves Campaign at the Event Center. Representatives from the Airman & Family Readiness Center (A&FRC), 1st
Community Federal Credit Union, Money Management International, Base Legal, DECA/Commissary and the USAA Educational Foundation were present to answer questions and provide
material. Military Saves Week included unit briefs, credit report
reviews, personal financial counseling, and workshops all in an
effort to promote financial awareness. Savers took the pledge and
committed to over $263,000 dollars in saving goals.
On Wed, Feb 22, representatives from the A&FRC and 1st Community Federal Credit Union visited the Child Development Center
and School Age Program for the Military Saves Week Campaign.
Children at the Child Development Center (CDC) were treated to
some fun songs about money and a story while the School Age
Program (SAP) children were visited by Arnie Dillo from 1st Community Federal Credit Union!
The Coupon Savers Contest was a huge success with a total
$1,226.75 saved toward reducing the family grocery bill. Olivia
Campos won 1st Place saving $551.86, 2nd place to Rachel
Preen saving $231.04, and 3rd place to Jennifer Rheaume saving $100.45. The Coupon Saver Contest ran from 19 Feb through
26 Feb.
Military Saves Campaign events will continue through 10 Mar.
Certified Financial Planners will be available to discuss retirement
planning, trust funds, and more complex financial planning goals.
Please contact A&FRC to register for any/all events. Servicemembers unable to attend the scheduled workshops can contact
their unit or squadron Military Saves Representative to coordinate
a workshop, counseling, or credit report review at their location.
Any interested Commanders or First Sergeants can contact
A&FRC via email, [email protected] or by calling
654-3893 for more information. For more information and to take
the Saver Pledge visit www.militarysaves.org.
No Federal Endorsement Intended
MAXWELL AFB HOSTS DINNER AND BALLET ON THE GREEN
By Amy Morris, Marketing and Publicity
The stage was lit and excitement was
in the air as the 42 FSS partnered
with the Montgomery Ballet
to host a free outdoor ballet for base personnel and
families at Maxwell Officers’
Club Friday, October 14.
Attendees were offered the
chance to join the Maxwell
Officers Club for an elegant gourmet dinner in the
garden before the performance. White tablecloths
adorned the tables as participants enjoyed a menu
which included a special
wine, port or champagne
served with every course.
The dinner was topped off
with a dessert created just for the
event called “Swan Cream Puffs”.
The early fall weather was
perfect for a night under the
stars as approximately three
hundred people spread
their blankets in the club’s
garden and unpacked picnic baskets in preparation
for the Montgomery Ballet’s performance of “Ballet
on the Green”. The crowd
was welcomed by Ballet
Artistic Director Elie Lazar
and Ballet Executive Director Priscilla Crommelin-Ball
and a wonderful night of
dancing began.
“I wanted a perfect ending. Now I’ve
learned, the hard way, that some poems
don’t rhyme, and some stories don’t have
a clear beginning, middle and end. Life
is about not knowing, having to change,
taking the moment and making the best
of it, without knowing what’s going to
happen next.”
~ Gilda Radner