Vol. 38, No. 49 Friday, December 11, 2009

Vol. 38, No. 49 Friday, December 11, 2009

Lighting it up!(Left) Erickson Mathieu, 5, Kitty Mathieu, 3, and Ainsley Mathieu, 5, left to right, children of Maj. Miles Mathieu, United States Central Command, pose for a photograph by their mother during the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at MacDill Air Force Base, Dec. 2. Families from the MacDill community gathered to hear Christmas carol-ers, watch the Christmas light up, and have an opportunity to visit Santa. (Above) Ainsley Mathieu, watches the light-ing begin. See additional photo, page 13

Photos by Senior Airman Rylan Albright

Annual Christmas Tree Lighting

COMMENTARY

by Col. Dave Cohen6th AMW vice commander

Unlike some commentaries, this one is not about leadership philosophies, or about how you fit in the Air Force. It is about helping our mili-tary families who have special needs. It is about my personal struggles and lessons learned. It is about how we, in the Year of the Air Force Family, can help all of our military families. It is frankly, about hope. But first a quick story…

When my son, Benjamin, was about 2 years old, he was playing with his cousin, who is just 6 weeks older than Ben. What would have seemed to be a normal playtime, turned into a life-chang-ing event.

Understanding that children develop at differ-ent rates, it might not have seemed odd that Ben wasn’t playing at the same level as his cousin. What was odd, however, was the stark contrast between the two. Ben was much slower, wasn’t feeding himself, and didn’t interact the way his cousin did.

After numerous tests, consultations with doc-tors, including a Developmental Pediatrician, and much research on our parts, Benjamin was diag-nosed with Autism.

Autism is defined as “a developmental disabil-ity significantly affecting verbal and non-verbal communication and social interaction, generally evident before age three that adversely affects educational performance.” Nearly one in 150 new born children in the U.S. will be diagnosed with autism. Autism is not retardation, though in some cases, that may be a contributing factor. Autism is also not the same for everyone. In fact, Autism is described as a “spectrum”, spanning a range of capability from near-normalcy to almost vegeta-tive. Benjamin appeared to be somewhere in the middle.

The quest for services, information, and strat-egies to deal with Ben’s condition began as an overwhelming task for Ben’s mom and me. There was no single source of information in the military that helped us get the care we needed for Ben. We talked with other parents, spent hours online do-ing research, and tried to separate “fads” from sci-entifically-based treatments. But this was just the “medical” side of dealing with Ben’s autism.

Day-to-day life events were even more challeng-ing. Take for example, getting a haircut. Finding a barber who understands autistic children is crit-ical—the goal is not to make the child look “GQ”, but rather to QUICKLY make them less hairy. One of the first times I took Ben to get his haircut

was one of the most horrific experiences in my life. Parents of autistic children many times talk of

“meltdowns”. These are tantrums of gargantuan proportions, but not for the reason that most chil-dren have tantrums. Autistic meltdowns are the result of the child’s inability to express anger, frus-tration, fear, or wants. This particular meltdown in the barber chair was exceptionally terrible, because as the barber tried to cut Ben’s hair, I literally had to keep him in a bear-hug so that we could not only get his hair cut, but also ensure he didn’t get hurt.

The issue was not necessarily that Ben was having meltdowns, but that he needed a barber who understood the condition and how to handle it. But where does a parent find such informa-tion? Similarly, where do you find dentists, schools, or play areas that will accommodate and aid an autistic child?

Fast forward a few years, and my daughter, Chana, 2 years older than Ben, began having trou-ble in 3d grade. Through extensive testing both in school and with a Developmental Pediatrician, Chana was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome, a form of autism. Those with Asperger’s have normal or above-average intelligence, but less well developed social skills, often with emotional, social development, or integration happening later than usual. Though she didn’t have the dynamic issues that Ben did, Chana still needed some very spe-cific therapies, treatment, services, and care.

So why am I telling you all of this? Because at the time, as a 14-year Major in the US Air Force, I had no idea what services were available for my kids, who to contact, how find help, or where to turn. In short, despite my considerable experience in the military, I felt lost.

If you are a military family with special needs, if you know military families with special needs members, if you’re a commander, supervisor or First Sergeant with members who have special needs family members, please read carefully—there is help out there and you don’t need to feel lost.

DEERS Enrollment: This may seem obvious, but it’s important to register all family members in DEERS each time you PCS at the local TRI-CARE office.

EFMP Enrollment: The Exceptional Fam-ily Member Program is an Air Force program (all branches of the armed forces have an equiva-lent) that identifies a military member who has a special needs family member. These “special needs” can range from severe allergies, to cancer, to physical disability, to autism. The program

is designed to alert the personnel system that a family has special needs that must be met at a new duty location or the member may not be able to PCS there. Many may think that enrolling in EFMP carries a stigma and may hinder their ca-reer and, thus, may be hesitant to enroll. As an EFMP enrollee myself, I can tell you that a great number of senior leaders (including General/Flag Officers) have family members who are enrolled in EFMP and they are doing quite well in their careers. Air Force EFMP enrollment is done at the Special Needs Office at the 6 Medical Group (6 MDG). This office can also help members of other Services work through their appropriate person-nel sections.

Case Management Program: Once a Pri-mary Care Manager (PCM) determines a patient is eligible, the patient may be referred to the Case Management Program (a caveat for those who have off-base PCMs—the patient must be seen by a 6 MDG provider to receive this service). Li-censed nurses will then assist the family with services such as managing referrals to off-base specialists, navigating the healthcare system, and researching other available services within the community, especially designed for the special needs patient (schools, dentist), providing support and advocacy until goals are met or family no lon-ger needs their services.

If eligible, case managers may assist the family to enroll in…

Extended Care Health Option (ECHO):

Don’t feel lost—there is help

Col. Cohen with his children, Benjamin 9, and Chana 11.

See COMMENTARY, Page 10

by Gen. Raymond E. Johns Jr.Commander, Air Mobility Command

SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. — I am truly hon-ored to join the AMC team. It is a privilege to serve with you, the men and women who make our global mobil-ity mission happen each and every day. You are the thread that binds our nation’s com-bat capability as you are the enablers of Unrivaled Global Reach for America…Always!

As your commander, I want to briefly share my leadership philosophy on what you can expect from me, and in turn, what I expect from you. First and foremost, I promise to dedicate myself to ensuring you are properly organized, trained, and equipped to carry out the no fail mission of de-fending this great nation, pre-serving liberty, and delivering Rapid Global Mobility.

I recognize that accomplish-ing the mission safely and smartly hinges on our ability to effectively care for one an-other. To this end, I will work tirelessly to ensure you are provided everything you need to succeed personally and

professionally. You are the reason we are the greatest Air Force in military history. You are what make this command go, and I am committed to do-ing all I can to help you grow. You are my priority and you deserve nothing less than my very best effort each and every day…that’s a promise!

Together, we are writing a new chapter in history and defining the future of Ameri-can airpower. You should feel a justifiable sense of pride in your contribution to our nation’s defense, and you need to know you have my complete trust. Trust is one of the greatest gifts we can share with others and forms the cornerstone of all great teams. Trust is also conta-gious. When people trust one another, there is nothing they cannot achieve together. It’s always been my experience that trust thrives when lead-ership expectations are clearly shared and understood by ev-eryone, so here are mine:

Leaders set a high stan-dard. If you place the Core Values of Integrity, Service and Excellence at the center of your personal and profes-

sional lives, you should always achieve this goal. In turn, I promise that I’ll maintain the courage to do the right thing – always! Never forget, YOU are the standard.

Leaders take care of their people. It is our Airmen who drive our global mobility mission to success, and they deserve loyalty and respect. Loyalty and respect must be multi-directional. They should flow seamlessly between

Your T-bolt TodayNEWS/FEATURES: page 4

Special needs improvements

COMMUNITY CORNER: page 20

Regular happenings

BRIEFS: page 8

News to know

MacDill ThunderboltPublisher: Denise Palmer

Editor: Nick Stubbs

The MacDill Thunderbolt is published by Sunbelt Newspa-pers, Inc., a private firm in no way connected with the U.S. Air Force. This commercial enterprise newspaper is an authorized publication for distribution to members of the U.S. military services on MacDill. Contents of the MacDill Thunderbolt are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by the U.S. government, the Department of Defense, the Department of

the Air Force or the 6th Air Mobility Wing.The appearance of advertising in this publication, includ-

ing inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense, the Department of the Air Force, 6th Air Mobility Wing or Sunbelt Newspapers, Inc., of the products or service advertised.

Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use, or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron.

Display advertising or classified advertising information may be obtained by calling 259-7455.

News items for the MacDill Thunderbolt can be submitted to the 6th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs office, Bldg. 299, at 8208 Hangar Loop Drive, Suite 14, MacDill AFB, FL 33621, or call the MacDill Thunderbolt staff at 828-4586. Email: [email protected].

Deadline for article submissions is noon, Thursdays to appear in the next week’s publication. Articles received after deadline may be considered for future use. All submissions are considered for publication based on news value and time-liness.

Every article and photograph is edited for accuracy, clarity, brevity, conformance with the “Associated Press Stylebook and Libel Manual” and Air Force Instruction 35-101.

NEWS/FEATURES: page 13

Santa was here

NEWS/FEATURES

NEWS/FEATURES: page 22

Wood Hobby Shop treasures

HomelandSecurity

March 2006

ach year fires occurring during the holiday season claim the lives of over 400 Americans,injure 1,650 more, and cause over $990 million in damage.

According to the U. S. Fire Administration (USFA), there are simple life-saving steps you can take to ensure a safe and happy holiday. By following some of the outlined precautionary tips, individuals can greatly reduce their chances of becoming a holiday fire casualty.

Preventing Christmas tree FiresSpecial fire safety precautions need to be taken when keeping a live tree in the house. A burning tree can rapidly fill a room with fire and deadly gases.

Selecting a tree for the holidayNeedles on fresh trees should be green and hard to pull back from the branches, and the needle should not break if the tree has been freshly cut. The trunk should be sticky to the touch. Old trees can be identified by bouncing the tree trunk on the ground. If many needles fall off, the tree has been cut too long, has probably dried out, and is a fire hazard.

caring foryour treeDo not place your tree close to a heat source, including a fireplace or heat vent. The heat will dry out the tree, causing it to be more easily ignited by heat, flame or sparks. Be careful not to drop or flick cigarette ashes near a tree. Do not put your live tree up too early or leave it up for longer than two weeks. Keep the tree stand filled with water at all times.

diSpoSing ofyour treeNever put tree branches or needles in a fireplace or woodburning stove. When the tree becomes dry, discard it promptly. The best way to dispose of your tree is by taking it to a recycling center or having it hauled away by a community pick-up service.

holiday lightsMaintainyour holiday lightSInspect holiday lights each year for frayed wires, bare spots, gaps in the insulation, broken or cracked sockets, and excessive kinking or wear before putting them up. Use only lighting listed by an approved testing laboratory.

do not overload electricaloutletSDo not link more than three light strands, unless the directions indicate it is safe. Connect strings of lights to an extension cord before plugging the cord into the outlet. Make sure to periodically check the wires - they should not be warm to the touch.

do not leave holiday lightSon unattended

holiday deCorationsuSe only nonflaMMabledecorationS

All decorations should be nonflammable or flame-retardant and placed away from heat vents.

never put Wrapping paper in afireplace

It can result in a very large fire, throw-ing off dangerous sparks and embersthat may result in a chimney fire.

artificial chriStMaS treeS

If you are using a metallic or artificial tree, make sure it is flame retardant.

Candle Careavoid uSing lit candleS

If you do use them, make sure they are in stable holders and place them where they cannot be easily knocked down. Never leave the house with candles burning.

never put lit candleS on a tree

Do not go near a Christmas tree with an open flame - candles, lighters or matches.

Finally, as in every season, have working smoke alarms installed on every level of your home, test them monthly and keep them clean and equipped with fresh batteries at all times. Know when and how to call for help. And remember to practice your home escape plan.

For more information contact:The U. S. Fire Administration

16825 South Seton AvenueEmmitsburg, MD 21727

orVisit the USFA Web site:

www.usfa.fema.gov

A Season for Sharing in Fire SafetyA Factsheet on Holiday Fire Prevention

EE

To the men and women of Air Mobility Command

COMMUNITY: page 24Events, movies, more

CONSTRUCTION: page 18

Road construction map

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Gen. Raymond E. Johns Jr.

See MESSAGE, Page 6

FREE TREES: page 16

Free Christmas trees

FREE FRESH CUT CHRISTMASTREES FOR THE TROOPS!

Fri, 11 Dec Bldg. 72 parking lot

(Located across from the Golf Course behind Bldg. 65)

Hosted by the Christmas Spirit Foundation and Federal Express

11:00 am to 1:00 pm Open to all Active-Duty military & their families*

1:00 pm until 3:00 pm Open to Everyone*

*One tree per family

Join us for refreshments & pick out your perfect tree!

630 trees will be available on a first come, first served basis.

For more information, contact 6th Force Support Marketing at 828-3055

No federal endorsement intended

NEWS/FEATURES

by Elaine Wilson and Nick Stubbs

WASHINGTON (AFNS) — Officials are working to boost the resources and support the Defense Department’s Exceptional Family Member Program provides to military families with special needs. The 6th Air Mobility Wing Family Readiness Center, already providing a high level of support for families with special needs children, may be able to offer even more comprehensive support in the future.

“Most people are aware of EFMP as a man-datory enrollment program, but we’re working to raise awareness of the family support we can provide,” said Rebecca Posante, commu-nications director for the Pentagon’s Office of Military Community and Family Policy.

Military families with special needs are asked to enroll in the program so their re-quirements can be taken into consideration for future assignments. Parents of a child with major medical needs, for instance, are sta-tioned at an installation near a hospital that can accommodate those needs.

“The program is to prevent you from get-ting in a situation where your family can’t get appropriate care,” Ms. Posante said. “Your asthma may be controlled here, but not at a place overseas. You might not know that and unknowingly be put in a life-threatening situ-ation. The goal is to protect the family.”

While the assignment component is stan-dard throughout the services, each branch of-fers a varying level of family support, and the resultant family services are inconsistent at best, Ms. Posante acknowledged. Dora Mays, a family readiness consultant with the Fam-ily and Readiness Center, said MacDill is in the beginning stages of implementing its in-tegration plan to meet the goals of the DoD program. While the process is in its infancy, at this point it appears it will be a joint effort be-tween Family Readiness and the 6th Medical Group. One in place, the expectation is that families with special needs children will have access to greater community information and resources to help them and their children.“We do it already,” said Ms. Mays. “But there’s no formalized process, and in the future we

will have a greater resources list and more detail.”The resources and funding to make it all happen will be provided through the fis-cal 2010 National Defense Authorization Act, signed by President Barack Obama in October. It mandates a standard program to support military families with special needs, establish-es a Defense Department Office of Community Support for Military Families with Special Needs and requires a comprehensive policy on support to families.

While changes lie ahead, Ms. Posante said, she is working in the meantime to put the re-sources in place to ensure success.

Last month, DOD officials sponsored the first joint exceptional family member support conference in Jacksonville, Fla. Ms. Posante said the conference was a definite success, and that she equipped family support personnel with tools they “could take back and use on Monday.”

She noted these same tools also are offered online for families.

A Parent ToolKit, available on the Mili-tary OneSource site, offers information and resources to aid parents of special-needs chil-dren, taking them from birth to 21 years old.

Changes coming to better support of special needs families

See SPECIAL NEEDS, Page 12

Photo Senior Airman Nathan Allen

Kristen Boyer and Brooke Boyer attend a special screening of the Disney Pixar film “Finding Nemo” for children with special needs last month, at the theater at Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkr. The event was sponsored by the base’s Exceptional Family Member Program. The Boyer’s are family members of Tech. Sgt. Casey Boyer, a 19th Logistics Readiness Squadron aerial de-livery supervisor.

bosses and peers, as well as those placed in a leader’s care. Know that I expect each of you to treat those around you as you would have your family treated…with compassion, courtesy, loy-alty, and respect.

Leaders are innovative and think outside the box. As President John F. Kennedy once said, “conformity is the jailer of freedom and the enemy of growth.” This doesn’t mean we have a license to violate established standards and technical orders that may place the mis-sion or our people at risk. Instead, it should challenge us to continually stretch beyond the narrow confines of the status quo. I expect you to push hard for personal and organizational improvement and trust that I’ve got your back.

Leaders are positive. “Yes” is one of my favorite words and sets the tone for any rela-tionship. “Yes” empowers, inspires, uplifts, and should be a leader’s initial position. Unless it’s illegal or immoral, our attitude should be

“Yes, we CAN do it!” The truth is we CAN do anything, but we can’t do everything. Choose wisely…choose “Yes” whenever you can.

And last, but certainly not least, we must continue to take care of our families. Our fami-lies are the unsung heroes of this Command and are critical to our team. They selflessly endure repeated TDYs, extended deployments, and missed celebrations. We work hard for our mission, and we must work harder for our families. They deserve nothing less!

In the next few months I look forward to experiencing our Command’s global mission first-hand, and above all, meeting with you...the active duty, Reserve, Guard, civilians, con-tractors, and family members who compose AMC. As professionals dedicated to finding so-lutions to meet our nation’s challenges, you are an innovative team focused on high standards of performance and committed to caring for one another. I truly could not be prouder to be your commander.

MESSAGEFrom Page 3

Dale Mabry Gate Lane 2 ConstructionDale Mabry Gate Lane 2 is scheduled to close from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. for

construction beginning Dec. 1 and continuing on and off through January.

Running Track ClosureThe Short Fitness and Sports Center’s running track will be closed from

Dec. 7 through the 11 for resurfacing. For more information call 828-4496.

Lost and Found The 6th Security Forces Squadron, Investigations Section is currently

in possession of the following found/acquired property: one digital camera, one vehicle key ring and one pair of glasses. If you believe you may be the owner of any of these items, please contact the S2I Section at 828-3100.

Free ESOL ClassesFree classes begin Jan. 11, 2010 for English for Speakers of Other Lan-

guages at the Base Library Room 209. The classes are held Mondays and Wednesdays from 4:30 until 7:30 p.m. Call 828-2460 to register.

Holiday recipes wantedThe 6 AMW Public Affairs office is looking for your best recipes to pub-

lish in the MacDill Thunderbolt and on MacDill’s website www.macdill.af.mil. We will be accepting and publishing recipes through the new year. E-mail recipes to [email protected]

Free Quilting ClassesThe MacDill Chapel Quilters is offering free quilting classes Mondays

at 9 a.m.in Annex 1 at the base chapel. For more information contact Sue Freeman at (207) 310-3751.

Retiree Activities OfficeThe Retiree Activities Office members need volunteers to prepare fed-

eral income tax returns for active duty, retirees, and their family members. If you are interested in volunteering one or two days a week, call the RAO at (813) 828-4555.

MacDill Tony Jannus Chapter Award ProgramDid you know that MacDill AFB’s Tony Jannus Chapter of the Airlift/

Tanker Association sponsors an award program? Within the two catego-ries E-1 to E-4, and E-5 to E-6, members from all five services, (Air Force, Army, Navy, Marine, and Coast Guard), compete for base-wide honors, winning an Airlift/Tanker Association Performer of the Quarter trophy, and the option of joining the Tony Jannus Chapter. The theme for nomi-nation packages is “How the Individual’s Performance Contributed to Air Mobility”. Nominee must be stationed at MacDill AFB, no attached per-sonnel. Simply type five main bullets, with no more than two supporting sub-bullets (maximum of 15 lines), on an AF Form 1206 (save in .xfd for-mat) listing actions and results from Oct - Dec 09 (Do not add filler or job descriptions, focus only on job performance). Please submit nominees via e-mail to [email protected] by close of business Tuesday, Dec. 29. If you have any questions, please contact the Tony Jannus chap-ter vice-president, Lt Col. Jim Ledbetter at 828-2285.

BRIEFS

TRICARE ECHO provides benefits that are not available through the basic TRICARE program. These benefits may include:

• Medical and rehabilitative services• Training to use assistive technology devices• Special education• Institutional care when a residential environ-

ment is required• Transportation under certain circumstances• Assistive services, such as those from a quali-

fied interpreter or translator, for beneficiaries whose visual or hearing impairment qualifies them for ECHO benefits

• Durable equipment, including adaptation and maintenance

• Expanded in-home medical services through TRICARE ECHO Home Health Care (EHHC)

• In-home respite care services• ECHO Respite care—16 hours per month

when receiving other authorized ECHO benefits• ECHO Home Health Care Respite care—up

to 40 hours per week (eight hours per day, five days per week) if homebound

Contact a Case Manager or the Special Needs Office for ECHO eligibility.

Autism Demonstration Program (ADP): At Congress’ direction, the Department of Defense has begun a program to provide additional thera-pies and care for autistic family members. The therapies, called Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), and which can run into the many thousands of dollars annually, are critical for many autistic chil-

dren to begin developing many cognitive, physical, and social skills that their condition has denied them. Now, thanks to ADP, each autistic fam-ily member may receive up to $3000 of services per month (a modest co-pay applies based on the member’s rank). Local TriCare-approved provid-ers of ABA services under ADP are available with qualified Behaviorists, counselors, psychologists, and staff, offering many services for parents. Ad-ditionally, through at least one provider in the Tampa Bay area, team members will come to you, focusing on academic skills, attention and coopera-tion, communication, social interaction, play and self help skills, and decreasing problematic behav-iors.

Contact the Special Needs Office or TRICARE Service Center at MacDill for more information on this and other providers, as well as eligibility re-quirements, and a detailed explanation of benefits.

Respite Care: Applications for respite care can be obtained from the Special Needs Office and Air-men & Family Readiness Center (AFRC); the Spe-cial Needs Office will enter the recommendations for care, and approval is required by the AF Aid Society. Respite care can be done by family mem-bers, licensed care givers and friends of the family.

Give Parents a Break: First Sergeants and any helping agency can refer a family for up to 3 nights of free child care over a 3 month period (one Saturday per month, 5-9pm) paid by the AF Aid Society and the Friend’s of the Military Fam-ily. Extensions can be provided on a case by case basis. Apply via the AFRC.

Medical Equipment: Special needs issues within the home (wheelchair, childproofing home) requests can be made to the AFRC and funding is

paid by AF Aid Society.Support Groups for Children with Special

Needs: Case Managers can assist with locating a support group for parents within the community. For those interested in a group sponsored by the 6 MDG at the Brandon or MacDill clinics please contact the Special Needs Office.

OK, so why have I just told you all this and pro-vided you all this information? Because nobody ever told me!

Through pain, struggle, persistence, tears, and just plain luck on the part of their mom and me, Ben and Chana are now getting the services and care that they need. Many other senior leaders have gone through similar trauma trying to take care of their special needs family members. We don’t want our military families to have to endure the same challenges. There are places to go to get help. There are services available to not only help your family member’s condition, but to help make the entire family’s life less stressful. There are dedicated Air Force members, civilians, and con-tractors who want to help. You are not alone!

If you have questions, concerns, or don’t know where else to go, please contact the Special Needs Office. If you still have questions or issues, please contact me. For our special needs families, we will do everything in our powers to ensure you don’t feel lost.

COMMENTARYFrom Page 2

The Special Needs office is here to help. Please visit them at the 6 MDG, 2nd Fl, Referral Management/TRICARE Service Center or call 827-9487/9172 for questions, concerns and recommendations.

It includes a list of support organizations, sample forms and letters, and other resources.

To supplement the toolkit, Military Homefront offers hundreds of resources online, listed by state, that parents can use to pinpoint a local program.

Ms. Mays attended the Jacksonville conference. She said, ideas were exchanged and some good information was presented. Since Family Services at MacDill supports various commands and service branches, MacDill faces “complexities,” other bases may not face, and where inte-gration of services is even more important. Additionally, MacDill has a fairly substantial population of special needs families, Ms. Mays said.

Family Readiness is standing by to assist any family in need, with one-on-one counseling available, and an already substantial list of area resources. Additional tools for parents include the Special Care Or-ganizational Record for Children With Special Health Care Needs, is available on Military OneSource, is a binder where parents can store all health care-related information pertaining to their child, from medi-cations and allergies to doctors’ business cards and receipts. It also can be used for special-needs adults.

“Imagine if you were a parent and one day you couldn’t take care of your child, (and) someone would have to step in and care for that child,” said Isabel Hodge, family support program manager for the Pentagon’s Office of Military Community and Family Policy. “This gives them what they need to know. It’s a set of instructions.”

“It’s not your official medical record,” Ms. Posante added. “But it’s something you can take with you as you move (or go) to different ap-pointments. You can take it with you and share with doctors to aid in care.”

Ms. Posante also urges parents of special-needs family members to take advantage of Military OneSource’s specialty consultations for adult and special needs children by calling 1-800-342-9647.

With the program’s new legislation and resources, Ms. Posante said, she hopes families will remember to associate the Exceptional Family Member Program with more than just assignments. She wants them to equate the program with family support.

“Enrollment is for your protection. This is a big benefit to our fami-lies,” she said. “But we also can help support your family. Seek out your EFMP coordinator at your family center; that person knows the area; they can get you the right information. We want our families to know (that) we know the system, and we can help.”

SPECIAL NEEDSFrom Page 4

Ho, ho, ho!Jack Phillips, 7, nephew of Ryan Brown, USSOCOM, tells Santa Claus what he wants for Christmas this year during the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at MacDill Air Force Base, Fla. on Dec. 2. Santa, along with the brilliantly lit tree, were the stars of the annual event.

Photos by Senior airman Rylan Albright

Military dependents prepare to sing Christmas Songs during the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony.

Spectators gather at the base of the Christ-mas Tree as the switch is flipped, igniting the tree in holiday brilliance. The lighting ceremony is a holiday tradition at MacDill, attracting crowds of onlookers and well-wishers.

FREE FRESH CUT CHRISTMASTREES FOR THE TROOPS!

Fri, 11 Dec Bldg. 72 parking lot

(Located across from the Golf Course behind Bldg. 65)

Hosted by the Christmas Spirit Foundation and Federal Express

11:00 am to 1:00 pm Open to all Active-Duty military & their families*

1:00 pm until 3:00 pm Open to Everyone*

*One tree per family

Join us for refreshments & pick out your perfect tree!

630 trees will be available on a first come, first served basis.

For more information, contact 6th Force Support Marketing at 828-3055

No federal endorsement intended

CONSTRUCTION NEWS

Construction adjacent to the Short Fitness Center under way

Road construction by the 6th Civil Engineers continues into the final phase of the repair of the Hillsborough Loop Drive.

The construction along Hillsborough Loop Drive adjacent to the Short Fitness Center will realign the pavement to eliminate the sharp bend in the roadway pavement. The construction began Nov. 30 and is scheduled to be completed by mid-February 2010.

Construction on Hillsborough Loop continues

Road construction by the 6th Civil Engineers continues into the next phase of the repair of the Hillsborough Loop Drive.

The construction along Hillsborough Loop Drive includes the sec-tion of roadway from Pink Flamingo Avenue to Florida Keys Avenue and is scheduled to be completed by the end of March 2010.

We appreciate your patience during the construction period.

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Company Grade Officers CouncilThe CGOC meets at the Bayshore Club,

SWAP, the second Friday of the month at 3:30 p.m. For more information, e-mail the CGOC at [email protected]. POC Lt. Gilberto Perez

Chiefs GroupThe Chiefs Group meets at the Surf ’s Edge

Club in the Heritage Room the second Tues-day of the month from 12 to 1 p.m. For more information, e-mail the Chiefs Group at [email protected] POC Chief Michele Fla-herty.

MacDill Top 3The MacDill Top 3 meets at the Surf ’s Edge

in the Heritage Room the first Thursday of the month at 3 p.m. For more information, e-mail the MacDill Top 3 at [email protected]

MacDill First Sergeant Council The MacDill First Sergeant Council meets

at the Surfs Edge Club Heritage Room Tues-days at 8:30 a.m. For more information, con-tact Master Sgt. Brian Smith (President) at 828-2608 or Master Sgt. Joe Lamb (Vice Presi-dent) at 828-3091.

Retired Enlisted The Retired Enlisted Association Tampa Bay

Chapter 58 meets at the Surf ’s Edge Club in the Heritage Room the third Tuesday of the month at 1 p.m. For more information contact Juanita Anspach, REATBC 58 secretary at (813) 837-5065.

MacDill Officer Spouses ClubThe MOSC monthly luncheons are held the

third Thursday of each month starting from September to May. If you are new to the ar-ea and would like to join us for the afternoon, email to [email protected] and type in the subject RESERVATIONS. The luncheons begin at 11 a.m. -Social; 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. - Lunch. No childcare is provided. The luncheons are at the Bayshore Officers’ Club unless oth-erwise specified 813-828-4756.The price for luncheon is $13.00 for both club and non-club members.

Community Corner

ACTION LINE

The Action Line provides a two-way communication between the 6th Air Mobility Wing commander and the MacDill community. A 24-hour recording service is provided so person-nel may submit questions, concerns or comments. Call the Action Line at 828-INFO (4636)

HomelandSecurity

March 2006

ach year fires occurring during the holiday season claim the lives of over 400 Americans,injure 1,650 more, and cause over $990 million in damage.

According to the U. S. Fire Administration (USFA), there are simple life-saving steps you can take to ensure a safe and happy holiday. By following some of the outlined precautionary tips, individuals can greatly reduce their chances of becoming a holiday fire casualty.

Preventing Christmas tree FiresSpecial fire safety precautions need to be taken when keeping a live tree in the house. A burning tree can rapidly fill a room with fire and deadly gases.

Selecting a tree for the holidayNeedles on fresh trees should be green and hard to pull back from the branches, and the needle should not break if the tree has been freshly cut. The trunk should be sticky to the touch. Old trees can be identified by bouncing the tree trunk on the ground. If many needles fall off, the tree has been cut too long, has probably dried out, and is a fire hazard.

caring foryour treeDo not place your tree close to a heat source, including a fireplace or heat vent. The heat will dry out the tree, causing it to be more easily ignited by heat, flame or sparks. Be careful not to drop or flick cigarette ashes near a tree. Do not put your live tree up too early or leave it up for longer than two weeks. Keep the tree stand filled with water at all times.

diSpoSing ofyour treeNever put tree branches or needles in a fireplace or woodburning stove. When the tree becomes dry, discard it promptly. The best way to dispose of your tree is by taking it to a recycling center or having it hauled away by a community pick-up service.

holiday lightsMaintainyour holiday lightSInspect holiday lights each year for frayed wires, bare spots, gaps in the insulation, broken or cracked sockets, and excessive kinking or wear before putting them up. Use only lighting listed by an approved testing laboratory.

do not overload electricaloutletSDo not link more than three light strands, unless the directions indicate it is safe. Connect strings of lights to an extension cord before plugging the cord into the outlet. Make sure to periodically check the wires - they should not be warm to the touch.

do not leave holiday lightSon unattended

holiday deCorationsuSe only nonflaMMabledecorationS

All decorations should be nonflammable or flame-retardant and placed away from heat vents.

never put Wrapping paper in afireplace

It can result in a very large fire, throw-ing off dangerous sparks and embersthat may result in a chimney fire.

artificial chriStMaS treeS

If you are using a metallic or artificial tree, make sure it is flame retardant.

Candle Careavoid uSing lit candleS

If you do use them, make sure they are in stable holders and place them where they cannot be easily knocked down. Never leave the house with candles burning.

never put lit candleS on a tree

Do not go near a Christmas tree with an open flame - candles, lighters or matches.

Finally, as in every season, have working smoke alarms installed on every level of your home, test them monthly and keep them clean and equipped with fresh batteries at all times. Know when and how to call for help. And remember to practice your home escape plan.

For more information contact:The U. S. Fire Administration

16825 South Seton AvenueEmmitsburg, MD 21727

orVisit the USFA Web site:

www.usfa.fema.gov

A Season for Sharing in Fire SafetyA Factsheet on Holiday Fire Prevention

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MACDILL COMMUNITYEVENTS

Protestant servicesSunday - 9 a.m., Traditional Service10:30 a.m., Religious Education, Noon, Gospel Service& 9 a.m, service, FamCamp Multipurpose CenterTuesday -Noon, Promise KeepersWednesday - 10:30 a.m., Women of the ChapelThursday - 11:30 a.m., Officers’ Christian FellowshipFor more information regarding the Chapel or Chapel servic-es, call 828-3621.

Catholic servicesSaturday - Mass, 5:30 p.m.Sunday - Mass, 10:30 a.m.Monday to Thursday: Mass, 12:10 p.m.Saturday - Sacrament of Reconciliation, 4:30 p.m., (or by ap-pointment) Islamic servicesFriday - 1:15 p.m.Jewish services - Call 828-3621

CHAPEL SCHEDULE

AT THE MOVIESFriday - 7 p.m. Law abiding citizen (PG-13)

Saturday - 7 p.m.

Saw VI (R)

Saturday - 3 p.m. Astro Boy (PG)

$4 for adults / $2 for children 828-2780

FridayTrees for Troops

Fri, Dec. 11 at Bldg. 72 parking lot (Located across from the Golf Course behind Bldg. 65)

11:00 am to 1:00 pm - Open to all Active-Duty military & their fami-lies.

1:00 pm until 3:00 pm - Open to Everyone* *One tree per family

SeaScapes Beach ClubSeaScapes Christmas Party start-

ing at 6 pm. AF Club Members: FREE Guests & Spouses: $9.95

Live music by Tommy Bahama!

SaturdayBay Palms Golf Complex

Demo Day from 10 am – 2 pm on the driving range.

SundayMacDill Bowling Lanes

OPEN SUNDAYS! 1-8 pmSunday Family Special – 2 people

$20.00; 4 people $30.00.Includes 2 games, shoes, 1 large

pizza and a pitcher of soda (Avail-able from 1-7 pm).

TuesdaySurf’s Edge Club

NEW “Meals in Minutes” Lunch Buffet – Soul Food from 11 am – 1 pm.

WednesdayShort Fitness & Sports Center

Jingle Bell Jog 5K Run – Dec. 16. Sign up at 0645; Start at 0715 at the Fitness Center. An official King of the Road Event – sponsored by Sta-dium Toyota & USAA* *No federal endorsement of sponsor intended.

Base LibraryFamily Story Time “The Night

Before Christmas” at 7 pm

Photo by Tech Sgt. Denise Hauser

Chief Master Sgt. Kymberly Corkum, 927th AMXS, with son Denver Corkum and daughter Kylee Corkum, pose with Santa at the 927th Children’s Holiday Party Sunday at MacDill. The event was the first-annual, beginning what is hoped to be a long tradition at MacDill.