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Real Life Sea Stories! UNDERWAY is a monthly news and entertainment magazine for the crew members of USS John C. Stennis (CVN-74). UNDERWAY is edited, prepared and provided by the JCS media department.
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UNDERWAYR E A L . L I F E . S E A . S T O R I E S
GettinG away with Green
lET’S BE REAl
H O M E C O M I N G
PACIFIC EXPlORERHOMECOMINGSTRAPS & CONTRAPTIONSSEATTlE BOUNDREALITY OF A DUINAVAL BASE KITSAP
UNDERWAY is an authorized publication for the crew members of USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). Contents herein are not necessarily the views of, or endorsed by the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, the Department of the Navy or the Commanding Officer of Stennis. Underway is edited, prepared and provided by the JCS media department. All news releases, photos or information for publication in the Underway must be submitted to the Public Affairs Office (3-180-0-Q). All submissions are edited for accuracy, clarity, brevity and conformance to style. The staff reserves the right to edit or reject any submission.
USS John C. StennisCommanding Officer Capt. Ronald Reis Executive Officer Capt. Kyle HiggensCommand Master ChiefCMDCM Stan Jewett
Media DepartmentPublic Affairs Officer Lt. Cmdr. Zachary HarrellMedia Dept. DLCPO MCCS Alan MonyelleMedia Dept. DIVO Ens. Joshua Kelsey Media Dept. LCPO MCC Jesse SherwinMedia Dept. LPO MC2 Kathleen O’Keefe
UNDERWAY MagazineEditor-in-ChiefLt. Cmdr. Zachary HarrellEditorMC2 Kathleen O’KeefeCreative Director MC3 Justin Lawrence
ContributersMCC Eric HarrisonMCC Jesse SherwinMC2 Chase CorbinMC2 Lauren HowesMC2 Charlotte OliverMC2 Jamie HawkinsMC2 Joshua KeimMC2 Justin JohndroMC3 Frederick Gray IV MC3 Claire FarinMC3 Erin HamiltonMC3 Grant WamackMC3 Kasia Kobiljak MC3 Chelsy AlaminaMCSN Ignacio PerezMCSN Marco VillasanaITC Michael Davis
A special thank you to all those who let us tell your stories to the crew and the fleet.
Cover Illustration : MC3 Justin M. Lawrence
Letter from the editorUNDERWAY
-Kathleen O’Keefe
Dear Readers,
It seems fitting that our final issue of UW coincides with the end of this deployment. It’s the end of a lot of time and work culminating in one last grand effort. For this magazine its our final issue. For the deployment its homecoming.
Yet no matter how much time we put into our work we were never satisfied. Should we talk more about this? Do we need more pictures of that? What’s the best way to address a topic so broad and make it work for almost 5,000 potential readers? The old adage of saving the best for last put a lot of pressure on the staff. We wanted to get it right one last time.
Homecomings aren’t really that different from final issues. You want things to be perfect, but something usually gets in the way. Whether its time, resources or personal issues, there are usually bumps in the road.
The key is anticipating those bumps and figuring out how to deal with them without breaking down. Homecoming may be like a dream come true for you. It may be more difficult than an average day at sea. Maybe it will be average, and the mediocrity of the moment may leave you feeling like everyone else has figured out something you missed.
Be ready for anything. I know some people who had a great homecoming and a few, including myself, that had a harder time getting through it. As long as you are patient with yourself, trust that you’re doing the best you can and working hard to make the best of everything then you should feel about your finishing this deployment the way I feel about this magazine: proud of the work you’ve done and thrilled that its finally time to put work aside for a little while and live.
Thanks for reading and serving with us. We hope you enjoy our final issue. Its been an awesome experience sharing your stories.
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FEATUREssTAPLEs
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contents
Volume 01 Issue 09Apri l 2013 Edit ion
Homecoming There’s more to a homecoming than meets the eye. We’ve got tips on what’s changed, what to expect and how to get through it.
Naval Base Kitsap Get all the information you’ll need to get around our home port, Naval Base Kitsap Bremerton.
Seattle and Bremerton We cover the best places to check out whether you’re interested in staying close to home or heading to Seattle.
Pacific Explorer The Pacific Northwest boasts some of the best the outdoors has to offer. Check out the best ways to make the most of nature.
Reality of a DUI You’ve heard from your chief how a DUI can wreck your life. Now hear it from a former Stennis Sailor who lost it all after one mistake.
Straps and ContraptionsGuest columnist ITC Michael Davis breaks down the seemingly crazy workout gear you see the super buff using in hangar bay three.
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Reintroducing yourself to your child
Remember that everyone will need to adjust. Be patient and understand your new situation as a returning parent. Embrace
the goodness of your reunion!
Homecoming can be a time of tremendous merriment and comfort, but it can also be a stressful time spent trying to meet expectations. Parents look forward to coming home, but are left with a question: how do they rekindle their relationship with little ones, toddlers or teens? The transition from the ship to the front porch can be stressful and agitating for the parent who left as well as the child who was left behind.
Let’s take a look at how your child may conduct themselves the first time they see you after eight months. Keep in mind that each child is unique emotionally and their reactions may vary by age. Here’s a list of your child’s possible reactions and some techniques on how to deal with them.
Toddlers: Ages 1 to 3 years old. They may be clingy and shy or pull away from you; they may not even recognize you. Young children typically have temper tantrums. Kids at this age group may need time to warm up to you so give them time. Do not force them to hug or play with you, just sit or kneel at their level. They will seek your attention eventually, so be ready to give your full and undivided care.
School Age: Ages 5 to 12. You may notice that your little person is more independent and more mature now. They may be very eager to meet you at the pier or they may be reserved and silent. They could feel resentment toward you for leaving them and they may fear your return. These feelings are perfectly normal. Calm down. Don’t get disappointed if they act this way. Be more expressive in a positive way; praise your children often and avoid criticisms. Appreciate their accomplishments during the time when you weren’t beside them, tell them how proud you really are. Take time to look at what they have successfully completed like art work, home work, report cards, awards, etc...and praise them some more!
Teens: Ages 12 to 18. Some of the stuff your teenager will worry about is the change in rules. They may act like they don’t care or they may be angry or rebellious. It can be challenging, but you can handle it. Take a deep breath. Slowly go over what took place in your child’s life, listen to their stories and spend quality time with them. Don’t change any rules or routines. You may feel guilty for being away, but don’t give in to their demands. Communicate effectively with your teens, do not tease or criticize them. Respect their privacy and friends. Share your sea stories with them and what took place during your deployment.
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Kids: Ages 3 to 5 years old. Children in this age group may recognize you but need time to adjust and loosen up – listen to what they tell you. They may have millions of stories for you and that’s okay. Accept their feelings and find out what new stuff they are interested in. Kids may appear demanding and whiney, or may demonstrate anger. Do not get frustrated if they act that way and don’t take it personally. Most of the time your kids don’t mean what they say or do, especially when they are upset or confused. Ask them to “wait” if acting out to get your attention. Get involved with their activities. Put them down for sleep or take them to school but don’t force them to spend time with you. Parents need to wait as well, so give your children time to readjust. Remember to always express your love and tell them how much you missed them while you were away.
By: MC3 Claire Farin
Source: www.military.com
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DEERS: Keeping Your Family Records Up to Date
The following are changes in status that need to be reported to DEERS to help ensure that coverage starts or stops accordingly:
- Change in sponsor’s status such as retiring or separating from active duty.- Changes in Student Status- Enrollment in Medicare or change in Medicare status- Death of sponsor or family member- Getting married or divorced- Becoming eligible for Medicare- Moving to a new location- Births- Discharge- Re-enlistment
Children are automatically covered under TRICARE Prime for 60 days after birth or adoption. If a TRICARE application is not submitted before the first 60 days after birth or adoption, beneficiaries can apply for an extension of the benefits for another 60 days.
College students can only be covered under TRICARE until their 23rd birthday or until they graduate college, and they must be enrolled in an accredited post-secondary institution full-time and rely on their service member sponsor for at least half of their income.
The Dependant Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) is a computerized database of uniformed services members (sponsors), retirees, and their dependants and family members who are eligible for military benefits, including TRICARE.
As time passes, each beneficiary’s information must be up-to-date and correct in the DEERS to continue receiving these military benefits.
A common misconception made by military families is the assumption that a service member’s enrollment in DEERS constitutes the automatic enrollment of his or her dependents. This, however, is
not the case as the enrollment of spouses, children and other qualified dependents is an entirely separate step, and each family member’s eligibility record must be updated separately
Anyone in DEERS can Change contact information, but only the service member can add or delete a beneficiary.
Family members can update personal information such as addresses and phone numbers once they are registered in DEERS. If the sponsor is not available, family members are able to update DEERS with a valid power of attorney.
By: MCSN Daniel Schumacher
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Being underway instills a certain lifestyle into Stennis Sailors. They’re used to never truly being alone, from hundred man berthings to overcrowded mess decks. If a Sailor has a problem their shipmates are around 24/7, or they can always ‘ask the chief’. But upon returning to home port some Sailors will be experiencing a culture shock, especially those who are either separated from their spouse and children by location or just plain separated.
For geographical bachelors and newly single Sailors looking forward to getting away the excitement of being back home will wear off eventually. Some Sailors will start to miss those long days at sea, of never being physically being alone.
“The biggest stressor for new geobachelors is probably worrying that your significant other will stay true to you while you are away,” says Commander Andrew Schiemel, USS John C. Stennis Senior Medical Officer. “There, I said it. Of course, people are also stressed about being away from the person they love, being away from their children, not being needed by the family anymore (if they can survive without me there… does that mean I am not needed?), etc.”
According to Schiemel, keeping in touch is the best way to eliminate these stressors. Call, email, facebook, skype, Halo 4 battle via X-box live account, whatever a Sailor’s flavor
of connecting with them on a regular basis to keep that connection strong. Remember to be patient with your spouse as this isn’t easy for either party.
“Believe me – except in the strongest relationships, both parties are feeling these same sorts of things,” said Schiemel. “Sending a small gift unexpectedly, trying to visit home or even flying the family to see you are great ways to ease tension and loneliness on both sides.”
For those Sailors who were recently separated, remember that you’re not alone. There are shipmates who have gone through similar situations. They may even be going through them at the same time. If Sailors need someone to be there to help them through this new adjustment of personal life, they can look to their shipmates or even contact the base Fleet and Family Support Center where they will find trained professionals who can help you learn, or even relearn, living on your own.
“Most people do not go into a marriage believing that they will get divorced,” said Schiemel. “Yet 50 percent of all first-time marriages end in divorce, 75 percent for second marriages. The biggest stressor for a newly divorced person is pretending that the marriage didn’t matter, or that they don’t care, or that they aren’t hurt.”
Schiemel went on to say this sort of statement is full of defensive self-protection. This isn’t automatically bad. It is true that
Sailors will survive without this other person. What isn’t true is Sailors saying they do not care. Divorced Sailors need to admit their pain and find a healthy way to cope.
Whether a Geo bachelor or a member of the newly single, there will be times when Sailors may feel over whelmed. Not only are they adapting to the new culture of being a quasi-shore Sailor, but the new lifestyle of living on their own.
According to Schiemel its understandable for Sailors to look for ways to cope with these sudden and new stressors. But they shouldn’t turn to alcohol, drugs, or dating a large amount of random people to block their pain or sadness. These will only temporarily mask those feelings, not make them go away, and in the end may ruin their career in the Navy and even jeopardize their future beyond the military.
“Look in the mirror,” says Schiemel. “Allow yourself to see that you are trying to escape from the natural disappointment of a relationship that ended from being separated even longer from your families. No need to sit at home and wallow in despair, that isn’t healthy.”
If Sailors feel like nothing is going right or things are just building up against them faster than they can handle then they should talk to someone. The ship and the base have councillors who want to see them through these trying times such. Sailors can contact the ship’s Command Religious Ministry Department for contact information to the councillors at the Fleet and Family Support Center.
For some Stennis Sailors the next few months are going to be rough but they need to remember they are not alone. Their shipmates are there to help.
“Be real and be honest, about your feelings and actions and about the feelings and actions of the people in your life,” said Schiemel. Accept that you are human. Things happen… don’t dwell on stressful things, but don’t ignore them either. You have an active role in everything that you do and feel. Take the wheel. Go in the direction you want to go in. And remember, there are always options.”
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How To Come Home To An Empty HouseThe Divorcee’s and Geo-Bachelors Guide
Don’t Let Your Career Go Up In Smoke.
Marajuana use is still against the UCMJ.
By: MC2 Jamie Hawkins
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How To Come Home To An Empty HouseDon’t Let Your Career Go Up In Smoke.
Marajuana use is still against the UCMJ. 6
MANAGINGEXPECTATIONS
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It is a cool May afternoon, you are in your dress blues standing on the flight deck straining your eyes to see a familiar face on the pier. You hear a whistle blast followed by the 1MC announcement “Moored Shift Colors.” You cheer and watch in envy as the new fathers and first kiss recipients rush off the brow. After an eternity the XO announces liberty call and you hurry to get off the ship. You get to the pier, you look around and after a few moments you find who you are looking for. You greet them with a hug, a kiss, a handshake or maybe even some tears.
Then it sinks in. After a long deployment you are home.
And now the fairy tale ends because reality is about to kick you square in the teeth that, because you have been gone for so long, that everything is not the same as you left it. You, your friends, and your family have all changed and one of the biggest challenges that all of you will face as you re-connect with each other is to understand this change and manage what you expect out of them just as they have to do the same for you.
The following are ten tips that you may find helpful when figuring out how to manage those expectations.
By: MCC Jesse Sherwin
7
Sources
-Military Deployments and Family Reintegration by Mark C. Pisano, EDD, NCSP, Fort Bragg Schools NC.
-Military.com. http://www.military.com/spouse/military-deployment/reintegration.
Sources: Military Deployments and Family Reintegration by Mark C. Pisano, EDD, NCSP, Fort Bragg Schools NC. Military.com
You and your environment have changed, but if you effectively manage your expectations you will minimize the inevitable discomfort that you will feel once you come face to face with a change that you just don’t like. 8
Effectively communicate your expectations. Before you arrive communicate what you want to do upon arrival and ask them to do the same with you. Once you arrive communicate it again, but be flexible because plans will most likely change. Remember that proper communication requires them to completely understand what you are trying to say.
As you start to notice the things that have changed make sure you comment on the positive changes. “The house looks great.” “I am so happy we paid off the bills.” “Wow I still can’t get over how good you look.” Conservations about things you don’t like or understand will happen with time, but for now just focus on the positive things.
If you have a family make sure that you set aside some time for fun things to do as a family, like a camping trip, a movie, or maybe even a round or two of bowling.
Be prepared for short tempers. During the initial transition back into a relationship its not uncommon to be tired, have no patience and even be confused about things. If tempers start to flare, take some time away for a while then return when everything has calmed down.
If you or those you have a relationship with have established a routine that helps you relax don’t stop doing it. Keep up with your 45 minutes of PT a day or the reading a little every night before you go to bed. If any of you did it while you were on deployment why stop now?
Watch the spending. Many problems in relationships arise from poor spending practices. Although the two week cruise may be a great idea now, when the bills start to roll in at the end of the month is it worth it to be deep in debt?
Take the time to thank anyone who helped your friends and family while you were on deployment. It could be a church member, Ombudsman, or a neighbor. Those that you have a relationship with will appreciate seeing that you show appreciation to those that helped them.
If you think there is a real problem seek help. Talk to your chain of command, visit a chaplain, visit Fleet and Family services, or just ask a friend.
Communicate your expectations frequently and clearly. If you noticed that this happened to be number one on this list then good on you. Clear-concise communication of expectations between those in a relationship is the best way to successfully reintegrate back into that relationship and the best way to make it even better.
Spend one-on-one time with each person that you have a relationship with. This could be a child, spouse, or just a friend.
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TIMEFOR
MAKING
We’re in the final stretch, we are almost home. Maybe we already have plans on how we will spend our time on leave like bonding with our children and reuniting with loved ones. Maybe we want to take time out for ourselves and find a way to cope with all the stress we’ve accumulated over the last eight months.
Here are some helpful tips that may help you attain needed time alone, readjust to life at home, lower stress levels and keep you from offending those you love in the process.
Think before you speak. Write down why you want spend time for yourself and the ways you want to do it. This will work wonders for everyone and you will be able to define what you really want without hurting others in the process. Make a wish list of all your goals. Write down what makes you happy, relaxed or sane and share that list with your loved ones to help them understand.
Make a List1 2Before returning home, keep
track of how you spend your time over a period of a few days. Rank these activities in order of importance and then focus on the top two or three items on your list. When you finally reach home you will have a good idea of what you want to focus on and how best to schedule time for yourself and your family.
Time Management 3
The last thing you want to do is offend your loved ones, but you can achieve your needed alone time without the “I need space” speech. Tell them your alone time is for your mental health and that it will make you happier and improve the time you spend with them later. Be 100 percent honest with them as well. For example, tell your loved ones, “I’m going to go workout, and after I come back we can all go to the beach.” You will have time to yourself, but your family won’t feel left out. If you cancel plans, offer some sort of compromise for later so your loved ones don’t feel insulted. Sometimes putting yourself first can pay off for your family in the long run.
Make your decisions and don’t allow others to make them for you. If you allow others to make choices for you, they are effectively running your life. Try to make these decisions based on your values. You will also need to take responsibility for these decisions.
Run Your Life
4 Yourself First 5Create a work and home life
balance; write down what will benefit you and what will benefit your family. This doesn’t mean ignore your family or your significant other. Be sure to make time for them, but don’t forget about yourself!
BalanceIf you spend all of your leave trying
to please everyone you will return to work still stressed and feeling like you had no vacation at all. Following these small tips will make you less stressed and more pleasant to be around.
6 Remember
YOURSELF“Obstacles are those frightful things you see when you take your eyes off your goals.” –Henry Ford
Story ByMC2 Charlotte Oliver
Illustration ByMCSN Seth Coulter
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Being around people all day can wear out your nerves. Try to find a good place to be by yourself when you need to calm down. Use that time to clear your mind and forget about all the things that still need to be done. Then when you feel a bit more “refreshed” go back and take on the world.
MANAGINGYOURSTRESS
Virtually any form of exercise can act as a stress reliever. Physical activity helps the production of your brains feel-good transmitters, or endorphins. Regular exercise also increases self-confidence and can help fight the symptoms associated with mild depression and anxiety.
Exercise, Exercise, Exercise
Organize Your Way to Happiness
We may not have a lot of room for personal belongings, but when that small space becomes cluttered with junk it can unknowingly start our day off on the wrong foot. Try to spend a bit of time every day slowly organizing everything in your rack or locker. If anything, it will make it that much easier to quickly find the things you need.
Around the year 50 B.C, Cicero, a Roman scholar, once said “You are your own worst enemy,” and this stays true to this day. If things are not going your way, talking down to yourself won’t improve the situation or make you feel any better. Accept mistakes and move on.
Don’t Beat Yourself Up
Meditation, Prayer or Mantra
Prayer and/or meditation has proved its use as a stress relief in one form or another through almost every religion and lifestyle. Both produce the same effects; a calming of the mind and a focus on the inner self. Pushing everything that is cluttering your thoughts out of your mind for even a few minutes a day can have many beneficial effects on your psyche.
Illustration and Story By MCSN Seth Coulter
Most people deal with some sort of stress every day. Knowing how to properly manage this proverbial monster is one of the best tools we have in our arsenal in keeping sanity intact. Sometimes the one thing we rely on to bring our stress levels down doesn’t quite do the trick, so knowing a multitude of stress-fighting techniques is imperative in beating the stress beast.
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“You” Time
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Pass & IDYou Are Here.
14
NAVY COLLEGEWhether you’re looking to take classes, set up required standardized tests like SATs and ACTs or just looking for educational counseling, Bremerton’s Navy College Office is the place for you.
Hours:Monday - Friday 0900 - 1400
The on-base gym has everything a fitness junky needs: cardio and weight equipment, free weights, three raquetball courts, two basketball courts, a pool, yoga studio and a sauna. The gym also offers a compliment of instructor led classes like cycling, yoga and Zumba.
Hours:Monday - Friday 5 am - 8 pmSaturday 9 am - 5 pmSunday & Holidays 9 am - 4 pm
Sailors looking for vehicle tags and parking passes need look no further than the Pass and ID office right off the highway.
Hours:Monday - Friday 11 am - 7 pmSaturday & Sunday Open at 4 pmFederal Holidays Closed
The Bremerton Recreation Center has something for every Sailor. There are pool tables, a bowling alley, a theatre, internet cafe and much more.
Hours:Monday - Friday 11 am - 8 pmSaturday Noon - 11 pmSunday Noon - 8 pm
BREMERTON GYM
PASS AND ID
BREMERTON REC CENTER
SAM ADAMS RESTAURANT
15
NEX BREMERTON
Hours:Monday-Friday 0900-1600
The Navy Marine Corps Relief Society office on Naval Base Kitsap Bangor offers a variety of services to Sailors and their families.
Base HoursCOMMISSARY
BEVERAGE AND CONVENIENCE STORE
NMCRS Bangor
The Beverage and Convenience Store on Naval Base Kitsap is the only place on base where Sailors can purchase liquor.
The commissary, or base grocery store, offers the same food selection you find out in town, but you don’t have to pay any taxes on your purchase.
Hours:Wednesday - Monday 0900-1900Closed on Tuesday
The Bremerton Navy Exchange, though smaller than the one in Bangor, offers a wide selection of merchandise and services. There’s a uniform shop, Armed Forces Bank, and dry cleaning service available as well. Find elextronics, home goods and appliances, clothes, shoes and everything else in one convenient location and pay no taxes on your purchase.
Hours:Monday 9:00 am – 7:00 pmTuesday 9:00 am – 7:00 pmWednesday 9:00 am – 7:00 pmThursday 9:00 am – 7:00 pm
Friday 9:00 am – 7:00 pmSaturday 9:00 am – 7:00 pmSunday 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
16
Barracks BasicsAfter spending months on the ship it may seem like you’re owed a place to stay that gets you away, but a barracks room is a privilege. Follow the rules below and you’ll be golden. Break them and you may find yourself right back on the ship.
Alcohol can’t be stored anywhere someone below the drinking age can access. If you are 21 years old or older and have a roommate under 21, you may keep alcohol locked away in your personal storage compartments.
All prescription drugs are to be locked up and you must be able to present a prescription from medical department authorizing the use of that medication.
Any open flame source or cooking appliance that produces open flame are prohibited in barracks rooms. See your barracks staff for a list of which items are not allowed.
Members of the opposite sex are not allowed in the same room after 2200.
You are allowed to own a gun, but you are not allowed to have it in your possession on base or store it in the barracks.
You are living in a base protected by armed security personnel. They usually don’t have a sense of humor when weapons are pointed at them, even if it’s a brightly colored water gun. If the weapon or toy could be mistaken for a weapon, base security should be notified before attempting to bring it on base. Base security will then decide whether or not to allow you to bring it on base and the restrictions for using it.
You are only allowed to carry blades that are three inches or less in length and not spring-loaded. All weapons that are not allowed on base are not allowed in the barracks rooms either.
The use of extension cords and power strips are restricted in use due to the risk some models may pose as a fire or electrical hazard. See your barracks staff for an up-to-date list of which models are allowed.
Any hazardous materials, like liquid bleach, gasoline, and other flammables, that may damage the room or pose a risk to personnel, are prohibited.
Animals and pets are not allowed on base unless it is a service animal used to help someone who is handicapped or disabled, and the owner of the animal must have positive control of it with a leash at all times. Inform security at the gate that you are accompanied by a service animal.
17
Source: Naval Base Kitsap Barracks Management
By: MCSN Daniel Schumacher
You are only allowed to carry blades that are
three inches or less in length and not spring-
loaded. All weapons that are not allowed on
base are not allowed in the barracks rooms
either.
18
FAQNAVAL BASE KITSAP
All Sailors have questions they need answered. From the brand new Sailor who just checked on board yesterday to the salty master chief who has more sea stories than the sea itself. 19
What is traffic like on base?
In the morning, both Sailors and civilians drive to work which leads to heavy congestion on the roads. You also have to remember it’s just not the drivers on base that make it congested, the pedestrians also add to the crowding. We highly recommend that you plan on giving yourself a half an hour from the time that you arrive on base to get onto the ship.
I don’t have internet. Is there a place I can hop on a computer?
The Bremerton Recreation Center has multiple computers with internet, a small library, video games, a movie lounge, billiard games and six bowling lanes all meant for rest and relaxation. In addition the base also offers a small coffee shop, Sinclaires with wireless internet, video games, a small theater and a laundromat.
Is there anywhere else I can relax on base?
Sinclair’s Fleet Recreation/Liberty Center is close to the pier and features videogames and a number of computers for internet use.
Is there anywhere I can do laundry?
Some of the barracks will have laundry machines right inside your room. Others will have a community laundry room with plenty of washers and dryers for everyone. For those living out in town without a washer and dryer available to them there is a laundromat on base.
Is there a liquor store?
Yes there is a package store that sells alcohol, snacks, cigarettes, and other small items. Remember to drink responsibly!
What are my other options for shopping and eating? On base there is a Navy Exchange, which is much like a department store. The commissary which offers tax free grocery shopping is also available. As for eating the base has a McDonalds and a Subway. There is also a Samuel Adams on base which has a few pool tables, a bar, nine different televisions so you never miss a game. They also serve lunch and dinner.
Where can I get my uniforms pressed and/or tailored? The Navy Exchange has tailor shop available inside the store. They can take care of all your uniform needs. They can also press your uniforms.
Where can I workout on base?
Concourse West Fitness & Aquatic Center is the perfect place for Sailors to work out featuring instructor-guided classes, basketball courts, weights, and many other benefits and it’s free. Also, there is an outside track for runners and a couple of fields for soccer, football or any other sports.
Is there anywhere I can eat good food?
Sam Adams is a restaurant on base, featuring a variety of good food and drinks. The Commissary is a good place to buy reasonably priced food/groceries as well. Also, The Trident Inn Galley is another cheap alternative for Sailors searching for food. Breakfast is $2.50, lunch is $4.60, and dinner is $4.60.
20
Seatac Airporter
Cab
Ferry
The Seatac Airporter is a small white shuttle bus that travels to various locations picking up and dropping off military members to and from the Seattle airport for a relatively cheap price. Prices vary depending on the location, but for active military members living in Bremerton, it costs $16.25 one way.
A cab is another option since they’re usually waiting outside the base, however, you have to bear in mind that this will be a long drive, meaning you’ll have to hand over a nice bit of cash.
The ferry is really cheap, but you would be forced to get a cab once you get to Seattle and this might cost some serious money. It’s free to walk on the ferry from Bremerton to Seattle, but the ride back from Seattle to Bremerton will cost $7.70. Vehicle prices vary based on size, but a standard vehicle will cost $13.15.
Catching Your Flight
Personal Car
Link Light Rail
Carpooling
A car is a great option since you have your own space and choice of driving music, but gas could potentially be expensive because of the long distance drive. Parking at the airport can cost more than $20 per day.
Central link is a light rail that travels around various locations in Seattle. One-way adult tickets start with a base fare of $2.00 and add five cents to the base fare for every mile of the trip. Day passes cost two times the one-way fare.
Carpooling is a cheap alternative to taking a cab or driving solo. Multiple people can fit into a car, chip in money for gas, and everyone wins at the end of the day.
When we return home from deployment Sailors new to the ship will find themselves in a new town that they should be excited to explore, but these Sailors may find themselves in a predicament because they have no personal transportation and do not know how to get to all of the fun places in and around Puget Sound.
Have no fear, public transportation is here. Puget Sound has a great public transportation program which connects Kitsap County to Seattle and the surrounding area via bus and ferry.
By visiting the King County Trip Planner at www.tripplanner.kingcounty.gov you can plan your trip start to finish based on location and departure time. The website also provides informa-tion on alternate routes, cost and duration of your trip.
Also, conveniently located near the base is the Bremerton-Se-attle ferry which runs from Bremerton to downtown Seattle and does not charge for walk-on passengers leaving from Bremerton (but there is a fee for the return trip).
If you are not interested in driving or want to avoid traffic, the ferry system will also transport vehicles across Puget Sound. Public transportation is also a cheap and convenient alterna-tive to paying for a taxi. On average a cab ride from base to the Silverdale Mall is about $25 versus a $3 bus ticket.
For more information about public transportation in Puget Sound visit tripplanner.kingcounty.gov, www.kingcounty.gov, and www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries.
Getting Around
21
Sources: www.kitsapairporter.comwww.portseattle.org/Sea-Tac
By: MC3 Grant Wamack
Welcome to Naval Base Kitsap in Bremerton, Washington! It’s not your typical Autobahn, so don’t assume that
the straight-away after the gate warrants a drag race to the next stop sign (I know we’re all in such a hurry to get a prime parking spot for a short walk to the ship). It may seem a little ridiculous to drive 10 mph around the base, but the posted speed limits are there for our safety.
Some of us like to spice up our vehicles with decals or bumper stickers, but, make sure you do not have offensive novelties or decals hanging from your trailer hitch, bumper or any other area. Anything that degrades the Navy is strictly prohibited. As a matter of fact, a friend of mine was pulled over because of truck nuts.
Traffic lines can be frustrating, especially in the morning. What makes sense is letting fellow drivers into the main lane one for one. It keeps the lines moving and everyone happy.
Keep an eye out for shipmates on bicycles. If you happen to be riding to work on a bike know what you need to protect yourself. Bicycles are required to have a headlight and tail light reflector, adequate brakes, and a lamp on the front, which emits white light visible from a distance of at least 500 feet.
Patrol units rove the base 24 hours a day and they can stop you for the slightest violation. If they pull you over on a Friday night because you’re driving three miles over the speed limit, do not get frustrated or give them hard time. Cooperate, because it’s their duty to make sure Sailors are not driving under the influence.
Driving under the influence is serious business. The blood-alcohol limit is .08 percent. Washington laws give police more power when arresting people charged with a DUI. They can suspend diver’s licenses, impound vehicles and pursue drivers across state lines. If you are a first time offender, you may spend a day in jail (at minimum), pay a $350 fine and loss of your driver’s license for 90 days. That’s just the civilian side. For the Navy, you will also
visit to the Captain. Consequences may include 60 days of restriction, loss of rank and forfeiture of a half month’s pay for two months. Be smart. Don’t drink and drive.
If you are driving on base, your vehicle needs to have Department of Defense decals, available at the Pass and ID Office in building 981. You will need a current driver’s license, registration in the driver’s name and proof of auto insurance to obtain a decal.
Are you planning on driving your car back to Washington when your leave is up? Make sure that your vehicle is already registered in your home state; otherwise you’ll have 60 days after you arrive to get Washington plates. Since it will be the first time registering in Washington, the State Patrol must verify the vehicle identification number before you can buy plates.
Remember, drive safe and stay on the look out for people crossing, cars turning, and always drive responsibly.
Steer Clear of ‘Braking’ Base Driving Laws
22
By: MC2 Justin Johndro
Sailors choose to ride motorcycles for a variety of reasons; from convenience when commuting, to the thrill of the ride. Whether you’ve never ridden before or you’ve been riding for 20 years, one thing is always important; safety. In fiscal year 2011, nine of the 12 motorcycle fatalities involving Navy personnel occurred on sportbikes and seven of the persons had no sportbike training.
All military riders must complete motorcycle riding qualification courses in order to ride on or off base. Beginner’s classes are required for those with little or no riding experience. In addition, all riders must take a yearly renewal course. A more advanced class is required for more experienced riders, even if the rider has been riding for many years. The class helps eliminate some bad habits in motorcycle riding that could someday prove to be dangerous.
Motorcycle safety classes offered in Navy Region Northwest:Tier I: Basic Rider Course (BRC)Tier II: Within 60 days of Tier I, Basic Rider Course-2 (BRC-2) or Military
Sportbike Rider Course (MSRC).
MOTORCYCLESAFETY101
Lane SplittingLane splitting is riding between lanes on roadways
or between cars. It may be a common practice among riders, but it is very dangerous.
Distracted DrivingTexting, having cell phone conversations and other
distractions while driving can also be deadly to the motorcycle rider. The rider should be aware of other drivers who may be distracted and unaware that they are sharing the road with a motorcycle.
Stunt RidingStunting, popping wheelies and making jumps, is
dangerous and not authorized for military personnel in the street environment. If interested in stunt riding, there are authorized tracks and events where they can be performed in a controlled environment. The street is not a good place to test one’s limits.
Helmet must be properly fastened under chin and meet standards of the Snell Memorial Foundation, American National Standards Institute (ANSI), or Department of Transportation. Active duty and mobilized personnel must wear a proper helmet at all times when riding on or off base regardless of state laws.
Eye Protection must be impact or shatter resistant goggles, sunglasses, or full-face shield attached to helmet. A windshield, eye glasses, or nothing at all is not considered adequate eye protection.
Foot Wear must be hard-sole boots or over the ankle shoes. Sandals, open-toe or soft-shell athletic shoes are prohibited when riding a motorcycle.
Civilian Clothes must be long-sleeved shirt or jacket, long legged trousers, approved reflective vest and full-finger gloves or mittens are required at all times. Motorcycle jackets and pants made of abrasion resistant materials like leather, kevlar, and/or condura and containing impact absorbing padding are strongly encouraged.
Reflective Vest is required to be worn as the outermost garment day and night, on and off base, in and out of uniform. The only authorized colors for the reflective vest: international orange, bright yellow, or black reflective. The vest must have a minimum of two 1.5 in. to 2 inches reflective stripes. reflective stripes, which extend from the hem, or from side to side on the back and front.
Additional PPE for Off Road Knee and shin guards, boots and padded full finger gloves.
Navy directives concerning motorcycle safety, Stennis’ Motorcycle Association information, and other motorcycle riding information is available on the P: drive at: P:\Stennis organizations\motorcycle association\reading room. For any other additional information contact Stennis command Motorcycle Association representatives:ATC Charles Jordan or AMC James Beattie.
Dangerous Habits Personal Protective Equipment
23
Source: www.navylifepnw.com
By: MC2 Dugan Flynn
No matter what style you choose to wear just making the decision to wear a helmet can save your life.
24
Every day in America, 27 people die as a result of drunk driving crashes.
Adults drank too much and got behind the wheel about 112 million times in 2010 - that is almost 300,000 incidents of drinking and driving each day.
An average drunk driver has driven drunk 80 times before the first arrest.
In 2010, 16 percent of all drivers involved in fatal crashes during the week were drunk driving crashes, compared to 31 percent on weekends.
DUI
ScottHitchcock
REALITY
The whistle and announcement of reveille over the 1MC no longer wakes Scott Hitchcock these days. Now he wakes to an alarm, but he can
still hear the sounds of a ship readying for the day. Trying to ignore it he pulls pleated pants and a button-down shirt from the closet only to glance at the uniform he once wore; the uniform of a United States Sailor. At that moment he can no longer resist thinking about his journey through the Navy; a once promising career catapulted into a tragic ending by a single mistake.
After witnessing the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001 Hitchcock enlisted in the Navy; a decision based on neither his current situation nor family but on a need to serve.
“I felt very angry,” said Hitchcock. “I knew we were going to war and my family had served in wars as far back as I could find. I was the only one still of age so I enlisted the next day.”
There are many branches of military service. All of which exemplify service to country. Hitchcock ultimately chose the Navy because he wanted to be at sea. Since he had just left a job in construction he wanted something new, something in the computer field. That wasn’t to be but the Navy offered him Dispersing Clerk (DK) and a $5,000 signing bonus, which Hitchcock couldn’t pass up.
“I wanted to go to sea, and all the other branches were shore based, so I knew I was joining the Navy,” said Hitchcock.
After serving his country on deployments to the Arabian Gulf Hitchcock’s initial enlistment had almost come to an end. Like many Sailors he was unsure if he wanted to continue his naval career. After talking it over with his wife and family they decided the best choice was for him to stay in the Navy.
“I sort of made a decision that if I made 2nd [class petty officer] that I would devote
myself to this and make it a career,” Scott said.And he did just that and soon received orders to the USS John C.
Stennis as Personnel Specialist (PS) 2nd Class Scott Hitchcock. Before Stennis left for its’ 2011-2012 deployment he realized
he had a drinking problem and started on a course to become sober. While deployed on-board Stennis he continued to work though his alcoholism and just missed advancing to PS1 his first time up.
“I was disappointed when I didn’t make PS1, not just for me, but for my family,” said Hitchcock. “It was something that would have helped us tremendously.”
Shortly after returning from his first deployment on Stennis the exam results came out, and everything Hitchcock had worked so hard for was coming to fruition. On Friday, June 2, 2012, Stennis held a frocking ceremony in Hangar Bay two. There Hitchcock stood proud and accomplished, at attention, with three chevrons sewn onto his uniform.
“I was an EP Sailor, just put on first and well on my way to reaching my goal of becoming a Chief,” said Hitchcock.
Story by MC2 Chase Corbin
25
Sources: www.madd.org
REALITY
26
27
The average person metabolizes alcohol at the rate of about one drink per hour. Only time will sober a person up. Drinking strong coffee, exercising or taking a cold shower will not help.
A standard drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 72-proof distilled spirits, all of which contain the same amount of alcohol - about .54 ounces.
In 2010, 211 children were killed in drunk driving crashes. Out of those 211 deaths, 131 (62 percent) were riding with the drunk driver.
DUI
REALITY
That night newly frocked PS1 Scott Hitchcock went home to spend time and celebrate with his family. On a warm, cloud free, Saturday night Hitchcock decided to go out with a few friends.
“I went to the bar with a few friends I hadn’t seen in awhile,” Hitchcock said. “The weather was perfect and I drove there and since I was only about three miles in back roads from my parent’s house. I figured I could make it home.”
At the bar Hitchcock and his friends were really having fun. It was a much needed celebration and break after a long deployment. As they enjoyed themselves time began to fly by and a few drinks soon turned into a lost count. All within a few short hours Hitchcock’s, family, friends and shipmates lives would be changed forever.
“I was close to home and I had been drinking so I thought I could drive,” said Hitchcock. “I’m an alcoholic and we alcoholics think we can do anything when we drink.”
Hitchcock never made it home that night.“About halfway home I fell asleep at the
wheel and ran my car into a telephone pole,” said Scott. “The airbags deployed and I didn’t realize what had happened.”
After gathering his senses Hitchcock backed his battered car up and tried to continue driving home.
“I made it about a total of 3 blocks before I fully realized what had happened,” said Hitchcock. “When I did I pulled over.”
Less than a minute after pulling the car over it caught fire. Police and emergency crews arrived shortly afterward along with Hitchcock’s wife.
“They all showed up and put the fire out while my wife spoke to the police and told them to take me to jail,” said Hitchcock.
At the police station Hitchcock was administered a breathalyzer where he blew over the legal limit. He was placed in a holding cell while the paperwork was processed and the following morning they took Scott home to his parent’s house.
“I thought about everything that had happened and I didn’t know what I was going to say to my parents or wife,” said Hitchcock. “None of it seemed real during that ride in the back of the police car, I was extremely embarrassed.”
Upon returning home Hitchcock immediately called his chain-of-command to inform them of the incident that had occurred. He already knew what was going to come of what he had done but he knew he needed to keep them informed.
“By that point I already knew what was going to happen to me but I knew I still needed to call,” Scott said.
Newly frocked PS1 Hitchcock would
immediately go through Chief’s Disciplinary Review Board (DRB) to commanding officer’s mast. He was sent to Mast on June 7, 2012 and was told he would be immediately discharged from the Navy.
“Standing in front of the Chief’s at DRB, my chain of command, the executive officer and commanding officer was beyond hard,” Hitchcock said.
That wouldn’t be the most difficult part of the process though. Hitchcock decided to personally speak to his fellow PS shipmates before he left. He told them about what it felt like to be on top of the world one second and then have it crumble beneath you all because of a few drinks and a bad decision.
“Going back and speaking to my fellow PS’s was the hardest thing I have ever done,” Scott said. “I wanted them to hear what had happened directly from me and I wanted to apologize to them. I was standing in front of my peers and telling them that I had started drinking again and was being separated because of it. I let them down and put them all in a hard spot.”
After almost two whole years of being sober Hitchcock was embarrassed and ashamed. It took just one bad decision and everything Hitchcock had strived for was gone. There was no going back, no mulligan, no second chance. That was it!
“It took me 10 years to make PS1and it took me 24 hours to lose everything I worked for,” Scott said. “I was supposed to be an example of how to be a good Sailor and I let everyone down. I was sober for 18 months when I started drinking again and I was very humiliated.”
On June 12, 2012 Hitchcock was officially separated from the Navy. Not only was his naval career over, his personal life was strained. All because one night of fun and one mistake. The incident cost about $7,800 up front, and would have been more if his insurance didn’t cover the $13,000 telephone pole he hit.
“Financially this really hit home,” Hitchcock said. “I was able to get the DUI reduced to Negligent Driving on three conditions, pay a $900 fine, go to relapse treatment which cost $2,300 and stay trouble free for two years which, at the end, I will pay another $600 fine.”
If Hitchcock does not meet the stipulations he will immediately be charged with a DUI and sentenced for up to two years in jail and pay another $1,400 fine. He also spent $2,000 on a lawyer and another $2,000 to purchase another vehicle, since the first was totaled in the incident.
“I went from making $59,000 a year in the Navy to making $34,000 and my wife having to get a job,” said Hitchcock. “Personally it was a blessing in disguise. I was an alcoholic and it took hitting rock bottom to realize it. I was able to get sober again and I haven’t had a drink since the incident.”
Hitchcock still thinks about that night and how selfish he was. He now realizes that there was help for him if only had reached out.
“I just hope at least one person reads this and makes the right decision and not make the same mistakes I made,” Hitchcock said. “It is a life changer and I am blessed that it has worked out the best possible way for me because it could have been a lot worse. I could have killed someone or myself. I was thinking of only myself.”
Almost a year removed from the incident Mr. Hitchcock has volunteered his story for all of you to read and learn from.
“If there is one thing I can say to all of you it is don’t think that it can’t or won’t happen to you, because it doesn’t just disappear,” says Hitchcock. “There isn’t a single day that goes by that I don’t think about that night and say ‘what if’? What if I would have hit someone else or their car? That is something I wouldn’t have been able to live with. All I had to do was call a cab and I would still be on the ship where I want to be, with all of you!”
28
What you’ll need:1 boneless skinless chicken breast1 tablespoon butter½ teaspoon garlic powder¼ teaspoon seasoning salt¼ teaspoon onion powder
Melt the butter in a non-stick pan on medium-high heat, but don’t let the butter start to smoke. Add the chicken to the pan, and sprinkle the chicken with the garlic powder, seasoning salt and onion powder. Cook for 10-15 minutes on each side, or until chicken is cooked thoroughly and the juices run clear.
Tip: If the pan gets too hot, turn the heat down to medium.
Serving: 1 chicken breast/Calories: 214/ Fat: 10.1g/Protein: 27.6gSource: www.allrecipes.com
What you’ll need:1 serving wheat chex2 tsp mini marshmallows1 tsp shredded coconut½ tsp dark chocolate drizzle
Spray a microwave safe bowl with cooking spray. Add cereal, marshmallows and coconut to the bowl and microwave for 30 seconds. Stir until mixed evenly and let the mixture sit for 1-2 minutes to cool down. Form into rectangles, drizzle with dark chocolate, and enjoy!
Tip: Run your hands under water to prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands when forming the bars
Serving: 1 bar/Calories: 191/Fat:4.2g/Protein:4gSource: Taralynn McNitt
What you’ll need:¼ pound of asparagus spears, trimmed2 tablespoons butter½ tablespoon olive oil¼ teaspoon saltPinch of black pepper3 cloves of garlic, minced (chopped finely)
Melt butter in a non-stick pan then add olive oil, salt, and pepper. Cook the minced garlic in the butter, but do not let the garlic turn brown. Add the asparagus to the pan and cook for 10 minutes, turning the asparagus to ensure even cooking.
Tip: To trim asparagus, hold the tips and bend. Keep the side with the tip for cooking
Serving: 1/4 pound/Calories: 188/Fat:18.4g/Protein: 2.8gSource: www.allrecipes.com
What you’ll need:1 English muffin, toasted 1 slice of black forest deli ham1 slice of mozzarella cheese1 egg, poached
How to poach an egg using a coffee mug:Fill the mug 1/3-2/3 full of water and add ½ tsp vinegar (optional.) Crack an egg into the mug without breaking the yolk and heat in microwave for 1 minute. Listen carefully for a soft “popping” noise, remove mug from microwave. Use a soup or serving spoon to scoop out egg
Tip: Adding vinegar to the water helps keep the egg white together while poaching
Serving: 1 sandwich/Calories: 319/Fat: 12g/Protein: 23gSource: MC3 Erin Hamilton
Nutriton facts: www.nutrition.data.self.com, www.sparkpeople.com
For those of us that live on base, it’s easy to go get something to eat at McDonald’s, Subway or go to a spot off base for a quick bite to eat. It’s just as easy and less expensive to go pick up groceries at the commissary on your way to the barracks as it is to stop for a meal that probably isn’t healthy. Here are some recipes to keep you on track.
GARLIC CHICKEN CHOCOLATE COCONUT CEREAL BARS
PAN-FRIED ASPARAGUS HAM HAM’S BREAKFAST SANDWICH
Let’s Get Cooking1
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fit for duty
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Sources: www.allrecipes.comwww.nutrition.data.self.com
www.sparkpeople.com
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2 30
fit for duty
Don’t Go OverboardSailors will once again be free to eat whatever they want whenever they want to very soon, but take care not to over-indulge. Set rules like these for yourself and you can maintain a healthy diet without having to give up the foods you love.
Fast food is just a short drive away and the convenience of ordering from the comfort of your own room can free up time for more important or enjoyable things, but take care not to over-indulge. Set rules like these for yourself and you can maintain a healthy diet without having to give up the foods you love.
Set realistic goals. Whether it’s fitting into a slimmer pair of pants or getting rid of some flab, think of the goal you have set for yourself before grabbing something from the dessert menu. How far you will be setting yourself back for this one piece of food? Is it worth it? Don’t make your goals so lofty that it would be almost impossible to meet them.
Don’t use food to make yourself feel better or to kill boredom.
Try grading your eating habits on a scale of 1 to 10 every day for a month. Record your scores for every meal and snack or just jot down one average number for the whole day. The danger zones in your diet will become obvious.
Reward yourself with cheat calories every day. Try not to let the amount of cheat calories you allow yourself to exceed 10 percent of your daily intake. If you’re on a 2,000-calorie-a-day diet, that could be a 200-calorie snack daily or a 2,000-calorie meal once a week. You can moderate your cravings by indulging in a controlled way.
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Source: www.webmd.com
By: MCSN Daniel Schumacher
sexual
prevention
MEbegins withassault
National Sexual Assault Awareness Hotline1-800-656-HOPE myduty.mil 32
STRAPS AND CONTRAPTIONSStory and Photos by ITC Davis
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STRAPS AND CONTRAPTIONS 34
Every now and then Sailors are reminded of the necessary steps to keep their bodies and minds in top physical condition while on and off deployment. No matter how one looks at it, working towards becoming a top fitness guru truly matters to many Sailors onboard; particularly
on deployment, where the yearly requirement of a PFA in the Spring and the Fall loom. The PFA season is the time of the year where Sailors are tested in their ability to be ready, aggressive, and with a no fear approach in passing each PFA component. As a CFL, I’m always on the prowl in the hanger bays and throughout the ship for Sailors who are truly meeting the challenge of going the extra distance to reach peak physical condition. The Stennis Fitboss, Tina Ngyuen, is a true savant in being able to showcase several different aspects in how STENNIS Sailors grab onto and ultimately own their personal as well as professional fitness goals. Her ability to simply streamline and further streamline the fitness program for the ship and her crew is a true reward in itself. If for just the simple reason of being able to
witness and produce methods to help thousands of Sailors progress and enhance their fitness experiences while deployed.
Fitness competitions like push-ups, bench presses, or squats all promote the fun factor and competitiveness of fitness. Zumba classes that take up almost an entire hangar bay, are no different in that they all push philosophies of simply getting out of the workspace and into a fitness frame of mind. Essentially, they all pave the way for Sailors to simply challenge their bodies to the max! Many who test their own limits become, in essence, critical fitness thinkers—which is a blending effect where ones body and mind become a collective machine that does not stop at no, I can’t, or I won’t. STENNIS Sailors have shown an impressive motivation to test the boundaries in not only their physical limitations, but in their intellectual limitations as well. Within this article, I will showcase some of those Sailors who have brought new fitness gear into the limelight to better prepare themselves for the amazing physical challenges ahead.
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Q. When you first learned of your underway schedule, did you start your fitness plan then or did it mature over the course of deployment? In other words, what is your process in achieving your fitness goals?
A. I swap workout routines regularly to attain the gains I want and due to the facilities on board, I had to kind of go with the flow and make due with what we have for how many people we have. Since my routines are constantly changing, I guess you could say that my plans mature as time goes on in the sense that I have to adapt.
Q. What made you decide to pick the gear you used? Did you read an article, check out a website, friend referral etc...?
A. The workout routines I use are weight oriented. I try to aim more for strength rather than reps, so I spent some time surfing the internet for gear to help me attain those goals. I stumbled across the weight vest and found I could use it for multiple things such as running, pushups, and pull-ups and thought it would be a great investment.
Meet Information Systems Technician Third Class Brandon Cheatle, who has been onboard JOHN C. STENNIS since early November 2011, and working extremely hard within CS-1 (Main Communications) division getting qualified like most Sailors are doing underway. He says he is a pretty active person, and makes the point of stating that did not want to lose that motivation while being underway. For his choice of exercise gear, he chose the weighted training vest to enhance his fitness. He admits that he has seen some amazing results from his use of the weighted vest. Ideally, the weighted training vest will give the athlete amazing results when used correctly because of the conditioning it does for a body using heavier weight than it is accustomed. With specific exercises or broad conditioning exercises, an athlete will condition his or her levels in strength, power, and overall quickness. Here is a small snapshot of our interview together:
BRANDON CHEATLE
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Nicholas Jefferson
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Aviation Machinist Mate Airman Nicholas Jefferson, who has been onboard STENNIS since early October 2011, trains like the best of them. His motivation in challenging himself borderlines the determination of an avid Olympian! He trains with an elevation trainer’s mask, which while exercising, helps condition the lungs by creating pulmonary resistance and strengthening the diaphragm.
Elevation Training Masks are designed to help regulate breathing, increase lung stamina, lung capacity, oxygen efficiency and overall mental focus. In the short time AN Jefferson has been using the elevation training mask, he has found that his breathing and overall mental fitness has soared to new heights. In an instant, one can train at sea level, but with a few adjustments, an athlete has the ability to train at Mt. Everest elevations! During our interview, he explains his progress so far.
Q. What was the hardest part in learning how to properly use the gear? Would you recommend it for anyone to use or only the elite athlete?
A. The mask is pretty easy to use; the hardest part about the mask when you first get it is running with it on. But it gets easier and easier the more you use it. And yes I would recommend it to anybody that is trying to work on their cardio.
Q. What results have you seen?
A. Well this mask also strengthens your core because it makes you use your diaphragm a lot so I noticed a difference in that. And of course my running is getting better and better.
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Jeff GatesLife has a way of showing us how hard to push ourselves to reach our goals. Chief Explosive Ordnance Disposal Jeff Gates, whose almost 20-year career span in the Navy has proven nothing short of true grit, hard work, and sacrifice, spoke to the core of how he views fitness in and off the field. It was obvious that he has plenty to offer in the ways of fitness. We spoke of fitness as a culture, and the true distance Sailors often put between themselves when it comes to setting realistic fitness goals while deployed.
As an EOD Chief, he takes the fitness goals of his Sailors very seriously, and is constantly challenging his own personal fitness goals to maintain the strict EOD lifestyle he tackles daily. For his fitness weapon of choice, he uses two thick ropes that condition not only the forearm muscles, but the upper cardio region as well. In addition to stronger hands and forearms, thick ropes can be used for a variety of climbing and pulling exercises to increase relative body strength.
Q. If you could change anything about the Navy’s PRT program in terms of using creative and specialized gear, what would you include?
A: Add pull-ups to the test. Make the test the same for male/female and make the scores have more of an impact on advancement selection.
Q. What made you decide to pick the gear you used?
A: I guess it was a friend referral that got me into body weight exercises ,along with Cross Fit based high intensity work outs. They are more in line with the demands of my position.
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New Life Old Workoutfit for duty
Almost more difficult than meeting your fitness goals is maintaining them. Whether or not you reached all or none of what you set out to accomplish, you now face the challenge of ensuring you create a plan to sustain what you’ve earned. With the right preparation, you’ll know what to expect, how to overcome pitfalls and periods of
plateau, and how to balance your fitness regimen with friends, family, education and whatever else shares your attention.
When you finally step off the ship and before you reach your final destination, two things will happen. You’ll be bombarded with hundreds of fast-food advertisements begging for your attention, and you’ll turn to friends, family or any other outlet to take
your mind off of work. It’s nearly impossible to drive down the street without seeing a fast-food restaurant, and it’s the ease with which we can get the food, the same ease we’ve adapted to on deployment, that spoils us. After eight months waiting in lines for 45 minutes to get the same meal you waited for days, weeks and months prior, what’s a five-minute wait at a drive-
No matter who you are, where you work, or what routine you’ve become accustomed to over the past eight months, everything is about to change. For the seasoned Sailor, adjusting and readjusting goals and habits to best suit the current environment may be second-nature by now, but for the hundreds of Sailors who, for the first time, are about to return home from deployment, a bit of culture shock may be coming. Many of us set out on this deployment aspiring to eat healthier and create a custom exercise regimen to meet requirements and enhance our quality of life, and many of us have reached or even exceeded those goals. But what do you do when you step off the brow and life intervenes? Do you have a plan? Do you know what to look out for and how to respond?
Story by: MC2 Joshua Keim
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Sources: www.livestrong.comwww.webmd.com
through window for a delicious double-bacon cheeseburger and extra-large fries, right? Well it’s a whole lot more saturated fat, sodium and sugar, for starters. It’s also one of the quickest ways to gain back the weight you spent eight months trying to lose. Though dining out isn’t always a bad choice, there are a few things you should consider before making a trip to a fast-food restaurant.
1) Fried Entrees: According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the average healthy diet shouldn’t exceed more than 65 grams of total fat, 60 grams of sugar, 2,400mg of sodium, and 2,000 calories daily. Some of these fried foods contain more than 1/3 of your total fat and calorie allowances for the whole day, and all of them account for more than 1/2 of your daily value for sodium, says the FDA. Eating these foods may satisfy your taste buds, but according to the United States Department of Agriculture, they also raise your risk for high blood pressure, atherosclerosis and obesity, which was the number one cause of death in the United States in 2012.
2) Sugary Treats: Avoid purchasing sweetened drinks and desserts, which usually have lots of fat and sugar. According to www.livestrong.com, one fried fruit pie has 21 grams of fat and 27 grams of sugar. A 12-ounce milk shake can have as much as 22 grams of fat and 62 grams of sugar. Each of these items is at least 400 calories. That’s 20 percent of your daily value of calories and more than half of your suggested allowance of sugar in one snack-sized portion. If you have a sweet tooth, try some organic ice cream or frozen yogurt with fresh fruit to hit the spot.
3) Super-sized orders: Increasing your portion size increases the nutritional imbalance fast-food meals already contribute to your diet. The American Heart Association suggests avoiding super-sizing, which raises your consumption of fat, salt, sugar and calories. According to www.livestrong.com, the difference in nutritional value between a small and large taco ranges from 21 grams to 32 grams of fat; 802mg to 1,233mg of sodium; and from 371 to 571 calories. Small and large orders of french fries have similar ranges: from 15 grams to 29 grams of fat; from 165mg to 328mg of sodium; and from 271 to 539 calories.
Take time to cook at home. Use time spent cooking as opportunities to talk
about your day with your friends and family. If you don’t have time to cook, there are plenty of food companies out there that sell ready-to-eat meals, which are healthier and give you more choices of food than the same burgers, tacos and pizzas over and over again; they don’t tax your belly as much either.
When you finally arrive home you’re likely to feel the urge to be a little lethargic and sit in front of a television and “check out” for a while. That’s fine! You deserve to sit back, relax and enjoy some time off. If you need to reduce your workout schedule for a couple of weeks, do it. You’ll get back to your current or desired fitness level quickly after you resume your normal training regimen. Just don’t stop exercising altogether. Studies have shown that you can prevent declines in cardiovascular fitness for up to three weeks simply by doing higher intensity exercises for as few as two days per week. I suggest 30-minute sessions of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) two to three times per week. You can mix it up between running, riding a bicycle or swimming. Try sprinting for 20 seconds, jogging for 40 seconds and then walking for 60 seconds. Do this for 30 minutes and you’ll find it easier when you return to your normal workout routine to pick up where you left off. If HIIT is a little too much for you, take a morning jog after breakfast a couple times per week, go hiking with some friends on weekends or take long walks before dinner time to work up an appetite and burn some calories.
HIIT and cross training exercises are good ways to mix up your routines
when you reach a plateau in your training performance or get bored doing the same exercises day after day. If you normally enjoy running three or more times each week and weight training on days you don’t run, try mixing up your run days with swimming laps in a pool, riding a bicycle or testing your flexibility at a yoga class.
When deciding how much exercise you need, it all depends on your goals and your current levels of fitness. If your main goal is to maintain what you already have then 30 minutes of moderate exercise a few times each week is all you need. If your level of fitness is very high and you want to keep it that way, you will need to adjust your exercise time, type and intensity accordingly. If you stop exercising altogether, it won’t take more than a couple of weeks to begin losing your level of fitness and it will be much more difficult to return to where you began. For this reason, I employ HIIT in order to burn more calories in less time, so I can spend more time with the people I love.
Returning home can be jarring for anyone unprepared to handle the stresses that follow. We all have days when life interrupts our routine and we may become discouraged. Eventually we all need to rest our bodies and minds and take a break from exercise, but no matter how you choose to spend your time when you return home, it’s important to maintain both your relationships and your overall level of fitness. I think you’ll find that as one increases and develops, the other one isn’t far behind.
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PUBLICMARKET
CENTER
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FARMER’S MARK
MEET THE PR
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Seattle AttractionsSeattle is a city for everybody; anyone can find what they want to do. Whether it is going to the local shops, clubs, bars, sports stadiums, with local sports team strongly supported by local communities, and plenty of restaurants this city has it all to offer. With all of the tourist attractions and local bars, Seattle is a city that has something to offer for everybody.
Its the universal symbol for Seattle and the centerpiece of its skyline. The Space Needle offers panoramic views of Seattle and the surrounding area as well as a five-star, rotating restaurant. There are also museums, art exhibits and carnival rides at the base of the structure.
With plenty of food stalls, newsstands, bookstores and bakeries the downtown market has something for everyone. This iconic downtown attraction boasts artisan food and craft in a kitschy, seaside setting.
Space Needle
Pikes Place Market
Bal Mar Cocktail LoungeWith two stories to choose from spend the night dancing till your heart’s desire, and with bars on both levels there is no need to leave. Just make sure you plan ahead for the ride home. Hours: Monday-Sunday 5:00 p.m.-2:00 a.m.
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Seattle’s Museum of Flight is known as one of the premiere galleries of aviation memorabilia and history. Learn about every aspect of man’s ascent to a life in the sky.
With a great D.J. this club will keep you dancing until the nights end. Hours: Wednesday-Sunday 9:00 p.m.-2:00 a.m.
Spend the night laughing and shouting out suggestions to the actors at this live comedy show running every Thursday and Friday. Hours: 8 p.m.-10 p.m.
Visit the tide pool exhibit filled sea creatures you can touch, such as sea anemone and hermit crabs, or view their mammoth 120,000 gallon tank showcasing the Washington waters filled with sea creatures of the Northwest. Hours: Monday-Sunday 8:30a.m.–5:00p.m. The price is $19.95.
Nestled at the base of the Space Needle lies the Pacific Science Center; a civic center full to the brim with exhibits, activities and rides centered around science and exploration. Currently featuring the traveling King Tut exhibit, this attraction also houses an IMAX theater and amusement park.
Sea Sound Lounge
Jet City Improv
Seattle Aquarium
Pacific Science Center
Museum of Flight
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Bremerton AttractionsBremerton is anything but your average small town, and not just because its home to a Navy base. Nestled between the cool, blue water of the Puget Sound and the majestic Olympic Mountain range, its no wonder how there is so much to do. Whether your interests are piqued by history, nature or good food and drink, Bremerton has plenty to offer.
The Puget Sound Navy Museum collects, preserves and interprets the naval heritage of the Pacific Northwest from the 1840’s to the present U.S. Navy. Hours Monday-Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Sunday 1:00 p.m.- 4: p.m.
This brewery, tucked away on the docks of Port Orchard, Wash., serves up special home-brewed ales, as well as other local brews. Though it may be a bit hard to find, the views of Sinclair Inlet make it worth the search.
Bremerton Navy Museum
Slaughter County Brewery
Boasting that it is “woman owned, woman
run, woman brewed,” this up and coming Bremerton brewery
serves its own brews, as well as other local favorites, in a home-
like atmosphere. With a loyal fan base and
daily drink specials, Der Blokken is definitely a must-visit for beer
aficionados.
Der Blokken Brewery
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The newest movie cinema in Bremerton offers special VIP seating and alcoholic beverages for customers who are 21 and older. Hours: Monday-Sunday 10:30 a.m.-11:00 p.m.
The Vietnam destroyer, famed for its multiple deployments to U.S. 7th Fleet and direct involvement in the Vietnam conflict, is a unique and educating museum that helps honor the men and woman of the U.S. Navy.
The park is beautifully landscaped and a great place
to bring the kids right before taking the ferry to Seattle.
Bremerton Ice Center has public skate hours as well as classes geared toward adults
looking to have some fun on the ice. The rink often has budget skate nights where you get two
hours on the ice for less than $10. The rink can also be
rented out for private parties.
Seefilm Cinema
USS Turner Joy
Haborside Fountain Park
BremertonIce Center
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It’s almost time to be back stateside. For some of us it’s returning to our homes, families or barracks rooms, and perhaps some favorite hang-out spots. But for the rest of us who joined Stennis during deployment, we may not be familiar with the area or certain places we should avoid. Just like port visits, NCIS has a list of “off-limits” areas for all military personnel. Now don’t panic, the list is put in place to look out for us and to make sure we don’t make any foolish decisions while we’re home. Not to mention, it is a violation of Article 92 of the UCMJ, and may result in disciplinary and/or administrative action.
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BLACK LISTEDVendetta Smoke Shop, 7837 Martin Rd. E. #B104, Olympia, WA
Smoke Time, 10108 Bridgeport Way, Lakewood, WA
Smoke Time 5, 8203 South Tacoma Way SW, Lakewood, WA
Jin’s Mini Mart, 9801 South Tacoma Way , Lakewood, WA
Smoke, Beer and More, 10506 Bridgeport Way , Lakewood, WA
SP Smoke Shop, 8203 South Tacoma Way SW, Lakewood, WA
Union Grocery and Deli, 15206 Union Ave. SW, Lakewood, WA
Up In Smoke, 10707 Pacific Ave. S., Tacoma, WA
Up In Smoke, 8415 Steilacoom Blvd. SW, STE A, Tacoma, WA
ABC Grocery and Smoke Shop, 11916 Pacific Ave., Tacoma, WA
Ashley’s Pipe Shop, 3421 Pacific Ave., Tacoma, WA
Drastic Plastic, 3005 6th Ave., Tacoma, WA
Smoke Depot, 3010 6th Ave., Tacoma, WA
Smoke, Cigar and Wine, 4706 South Oakes St., Tacoma, WA
Uni Mart, 2313 South 38th St., Tacoma, WA
Cigar Jones, 18810Meridian E., Puyallup, WA
World Cigar, 15012 Meridian St., Puyallup, WA
Smoke and Video, 17308 Pacific Ave. S., Spanaway, WA
Young’s Smoke Shop, 16322 Pacific Ave. S., Spanaway, WA
A1 Smoke and Grocery, 2625 Colby Ct. Suite 5, Everett, WA
OK Gas and Smoke, 2102 Broadway, Everett, WA
Café Arizona, 2012 S. 320th St., Federal Way, WA
Advance-Til-Payday, 2500 6th St., Bremerton, WA 51
Can you see a reoccurring trend? You guessed it,
smoke shops! Now if you don’t keep up with what
happened in the state of Washington since
we left on deployment, the recreational use of
marijuana is now legal for civilians, but not for DOD
and military personnel because it is not legal on
the Federal level. So in other words, NOT FOR US! So with this in mind, stay
squared away and stay away.
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Pacific ExplorerCamping Backpacking Mountain Biking Trail Running
After being cooped up on a ship for eight months staring at bulkheads and the wonderful color scheme of deck gray paint against the white washed walls and black non-skid, I’m ready to get outside and experience the vivid color of Mother Nature. Although there may be a few Sailors out there who prefer their crammed quarters and a brisk walk through the hangar bay, its time to put that aside and get outside.
So you’re saying we can go outside?
By MC3 Fred Gray IVPhotos by MCSN Seth Coulter
The Evergreen StateJust because you haven’t lived in Washington before it won’t take long for
you to guess that Washington is the Evergreen State. With annual precipitation averaging at 38 inches it would be hard to imagine Washington anything but green. Washington got its nickname from a man named C.T. Conover. Conover was a pioneer Seattle realtor and named the state after its endless evergreen forests. The nickname was adopted by legislature in February of 1893. Fact.
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There are three types of wood you need to gather to start a fire. The first is tinder. The second type of wood is kindling. The third type is fuel wood, which consists of anything larger than your thumb.
Gather Firewood
A ring of rocks, dig a small pit, and fire rings which can be found at most commercial campsites are ideal. Lean the tinder against a larger piece of wood with a gap larger enough to get a match or lighter flame underneath.
Make A Barrier For The Fire
If you had a good fire going and it smoldered out and still has heavy smoke to it, then you can blow air on the base of the fire to reignite the flames. At this point try creating airflow to the base of the fire so it will maintain a consistent burn.
Keep It Going
Keeping Warm Building a fire in 3 basic steps
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Moss growth near the entrance to the Mirimar Falls trailhead.
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Camping Backpacking Mountain Biking Trail Running
For some Sailors a trip outdoors would be an escape and a way to relax. Camping is an easy way to get outside while still having all the things you need or want within arm’s reach. There are a variety of different terrains to camp at. In the mountains, at a local campsite with some basic amenities like toilets and showers; near rivers, creeks, streams or lakes; meadows, old-growth forests or even near the ocean. Washington has a diverse atmosphere and plethora of ecosystems and is a great state to get outdoors. So don’t think too hard about it, grab some friends and go camping.
Out of the Rack and Into the Dirt
Tent, sleeping bags, food, beverages, fire wood and anything you would want to pack in the car for your amusement. Keep in mind that the equipment that you use is really based on what type of person that you are, or the area that you are camping at. Above is the bare minimum you should have to maintain a stable campground. You may want to include a hammock, fishing gear (with fishing license), a deck of cards, a lantern, and perhaps a cooler full of some adult beverages (that is if you are of age of course).
Salt Creek Recreation Area off State Route 112 on the north side of Olympic Peninsula has a wealth of options for campers. This Clallam County campground offers dozens of drive-in campsites with golden views across the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and some of the best tide-pooling in the Pacific Northwest at Tounge Point Marine Sanctuary. Hikers, kayakers, surfers, and photographers will find plenty to do in and around Salt Creek. Kids will enjoy the playground, basketball hoops, baseball field and volleyball court. There are coin-operated showers and you can purchase firewood. Reservations can be made up to 14 days in advance for half of the 90 campsites. The remaining 45 sites will be available on a first come first serve basis.
THE GEAR
THE DESTINATION
Salt Creek Recreation Area
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Planning
Keep Your Distance
Before heading out to the far corners of Washington state for your weekend excursion make sure you and your team have taken the proper time to plan and prepare for your trip. The last thing you want is to make the drive out the country only to find the area closed off due to weather conditions, hazards or even construction. When scheduling your trip it’s always a good idea to avoid those busy holiday weekends or weekends all together. Starting your trip in the middle week will help you skip the crowds and give you the seclusion you’re looking for. It’s also a good idea to check the state and national parks websites for any regulations currently enforced in the area your traveling to.
One of the greatest things about camping is the opportunity to experience the wildlife. There many animals you may have a chance to witness. Your natural instinct is going to tell you to try to get closer, but you couldn’t be more wrong. You should enjoy the view from a distance. If they run or leave do not follow them; this can be taken as a sign of aggression. Not to mention you won’t be able to keep up. You should also never feed any animals you may come across. You wouldn’t start eating the bushes along the forest trails so don’t let the animals get into your food. Keep all food and beverages in your cooler or inside a bear locker, large metal box sometimes provided by the campground to keep bears away from your food and gear. You could even go as far as hanging your food from a high sitting branch. Avoid wildlife during sensitive times: mating, nesting, raising young or winter.
The Six Commandments Of NatureCamping Backpacking Mountain Biking Trail Running
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Impact In & Out
Look Don’t Touch
Sounds of Nature
While camping is a wonderful way to relax and spend your time you still want to make sure to respect the surrounding area. It’s always a safe bet to remain on “durable” surfaces. These can include established trails, campsites, rock, gravel, dry grasses or snow. This allows for the least amount of human impact on the vegetation and wildlife. A good rule of thumb to camp by is that good campsites are found, not made. If you decide to do a little exploring on you trip and visit some trails you should walk in a single file line in the middle of the trail.
People tend to generate garbage everywhere they go. In our homes we’re pretty good about making sure that we pick up after ourselves and dispose of our waste properly. The same should be said when we venture out into the wilderness. The National Park Service has a program called “Pack it in, Pack it out” ; if you bring it make sure it leaves with you. You wouldn’t go to your friends house and leave your garbage around so don’t do it in the wilderness. Before you leave you should fully inspect your campsite to make sure you haven’t left anything behind. Most public campgrounds will have trash receptacles available for use, but you will have to bring your own bags.
One often overlooked or ignored rule of camping is leaving the area untouched. This rule applies to plants, fallen trees or logs, rocks and any other natural objects you may come across. What may look to you like a log leaning against a boulder could be a home for many different species of plants and animals. Refrain from building structures, furniture or digging trenches. You also want to refrain from introducing or transporting non-native species. It’s okay to enjoy the scenery, but do your best to leave it as is.
While you may enjoy camping for the seclusion it wise to remember that it’s not always just you. You should respect other visitors around you by keep loud noises to a bare minimum, especially at night. Everyone is looking for the same quality of experience as you are. When walking on trails be be courteous and yield to other users and offer a friendly hello. You may be able to gather some useful information form them as well such as good areas to explore or blocked trails.
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On The Up and Up and Up
Camping Backpacking Mountain Biking Trail Running
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Hiking – Hiking shoes with some good tread and toe guards are crucial, a backpack with some of the essentials such as light snacks (power bars and trail mix) with a lunch, sunglasses, sunscreen and one or two liters of water. Backpacking – Ankle-high hiking boots for good support. A 50-70 liter backpack for all of the supplies needed for a few nights in the wilderness. The minimum supplies to bring includes a tent, sleeping bag, knife or multi-tool, extra food, camp stove, first-aid kit, eating utensils, sleeping pad, a map of the area with a compass, extra water and/or a way to purify water, flashlight with extra batteries, and fire starter with matches or a lighter. Extra clothing, like clean socks and underwear for everyday is recommended. Also, lightweight camp shoes like loafers are great to have because the last thing you want to do is wear the boots you were just hiking in to lounge around camp.
THE GEAR
The Upper Big Quilcene – Marmot Pass is a great trip for beginners. You will experience all the wonders that the buckhorn wilderness has to offer. You can spend the night at Camp Mystery, 4.5 miles into the trail, or you can continue to an open meadow where you may see some wildlife. You’ll also get some great panoramic views across the Olympic Mountains. This trail has 3,500 feet of elevation gain, which for beginners can be strenuous. If you are new to hiking this will be a good test, because there is only one way back to where you started, and that is to hike. The complete trip to the meadow and back is 10.6 miles. If you are planning on a day trip start early so you are back to your vehicle by sundown. If you are staying overnight then make sure you give yourself time to set up camp before nightfall. Olympic State park requires a permit for camping and backpacking, which can be obtained from any ranger station.
THE DESTINATION
Backpacking and hiking provide an amazing outdoor experience for those wanting to be in the moment and embrace the wild. Hiking can be simple trips that can be finished within the day. Backpacking is for the more experienced outdoors person that likes carrying enough supplies with them to last for multiple days.
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Trees scrape through the clouds along the trail towards the summit of Mount Townsend. 8.5 mile round trip.6280 feet.3,000 foot elevation gain.
The mountain has become a favored hike for intermediate climbers due to the fact that it is easily accessible and can be quickly done in a single day. The hike is almost completely compromised of switch-backs, or a trail that follows a zig-zag pattern up the face of the mountain, and there are only a few points near the beginning and end that are of a relatively strait path. The views are astonishing on clear days allowing you to see Seattle and the Cascade Mountains. For an easy hike that will leave you breathless or as a good jumping off point for future adventures, give Mount Townsend an attempt.
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Camping Backpacking Mountain Biking Trail Running
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Ride Hard, Ride Fast Those who want to get the feeling of the outdoors, the thrill of speed and the burn of a good workout should think about mountain biking.
The difficulty range of the trail ranges from beginner to intermediate. This network of trails has a little of everything (except big hills). There are a few short, steep climbs and descents, but it’s mostly flat. There are light, twisty trails with lots of roots, logs and rocks. There are also some easy trails for those just getting started. Its located on a one square mile piece of land with 20 miles of interweaving course to ride. Directions: From Highway 16, take Sedgwick Road about six miles to Banner Road and go south on Banner Road to the intersection of Banner and Olalla Valley Roads. The trailhead will be on your right.
THE DESTINATION
No More Treadmills!Camping Backpacking Mountain Biking Trail Running
Having a hard time breaking out of the urban and into the outdoors, but still like to run outside? Then there is a park right outside the urban city streets of Seattle to get you away from the noise but not too far out for comfort.
Where: Discovery ParkEquipment: Some comfortable running shoes and some water. Fee: FreeDescription: Discovery Park is a 534-acre natural area park operated by the Seattle Parks and Recreation. It is the largest city park in Seattle, and occupies most of the former Fort Lawton site. The site is situated on Magnolia Bluff overlooking Puget Sound, offering spectacular views of both the Cascade and the Olympic Mountain ranges. The park also offers two miles of protected tidal beaches, open meadow lands, sea cliffs, forest groves, active sand dunes, thickets, and streams. The main purpose of Discovery Park is to provide a quiet and tranquil space away from the stress and activity of the city. It also serves as a sanctuary for wildlife and an outdoor classroom for people to learn about the natural world. With all sorts of trails interweaving through this diverse park the runner could get glimpses consisting of five different outdoor settings with one run! Open daily 6 a.m.-11 p.m. closed holidays. Visitor center open Tuesday-Sunday 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.Directions: 3801 Discovery Park Blvd. Washington
THE DESTINATION
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For a laid back sunny summer day there’s nothing better than taking one of your friends out for a game of disc golf. Unlike real golf there are no tee times, no expensive clubs to rent or buy and plaid pants are not required (unless that’s your style, but hey, we won’t judge).
Equipment: Disc golf discs, some water and maybe some snacksFee: Free! (For those with discs)Description: This is a long and challenging course with fairways through the forest that include a lot of elevation change. Players will see a three hundred foot gliding descent shot followed up with an arm wrenching technical uphill hole. It gets more interesting as you go. The addition of nine holes created a championship level 18-hole course.
Hole In One! Kitsap Fairgrounds DGC (Disc Golf Course)
Silverdale Dog Park
Many Sailors may be thinking about picking up a furry friend when we get home. If you are one of these Sailors why not take your new dog out for a little bit of exercise and fun outdoors?
This is a great place to let your dog run around off leash. It’s a big, fenced-in open area so dogs can be dogs. The owner of the dog is responsible for any damage or injury inflicted and law enforcement will ban aggressive dogs from the park. This is an “at risk” park and children age 12 and under must be supervised by their parent or
guardian. People are not allowed to run in the park because the dogs will get excited. All dogs must be vaccinated and licensed (contact the Kitsap County Licensing Office). Never leave your dog unattended and keep it from jumping on other dogs or people. Dogs with a contagious condition or illness are not welcome.
Throw The Ball
By MC3 Fred Gray IV
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things Legal wants you to know...5TOP
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5Alcohol Related Incidents (ARI) spike upon return to home port. Drink responsibly to avoid non-judicial punishment (NJP) or court martial.
Beware of predatory lenders. You just got back from deployment so they know that you have lots of money. If you have any questions, contact legal.
Wills can be done through the Region Legal Service Office (RLSO).
Legal Department or RLSO can review your lease (to ensure there is a military clause) and vehicle contracts (for excessively high interest rates) before you sign.
Marijuana is STILL illegal for service members even though it is now legal in the state of Washington. Also, Purgatory Vodka, which has recently been sold in Air Force Exchanges, is derived from hemp seed oil, therefore it is also illegal. Use of Purgatory Vodka will result in a violation of UCMJ Article 92, failure to obey an order or regulation.
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The Only First Person Shooter Northwest Paintball Park
Equipment: You and your crew. If you have your own equipment, such as a paintball gun and goggles, you are more than welcome to use those.Fee: Admission is $15 for those with their own guns and goggles, and you can stay and play all day! For those without equipment, rental packs are $40 per person. The rental pack includes admission, semi-automatic Tippman M-89 Gun, full face mask with goggles, free air refills and 500 premium paintballs. If you run out of paintballs you can purchase more.Description: The Northwest Paintball Park is a family oriented
paintball arena with an amusement park atmosphere. First time players will receive coaching from the referees and the more experienced players, so you can understand the rules of the game and make the most of your experience. Players must be 10-years-old, and children under 18 need a waiver signed by a legal parent or guardian. No reservations are required; come alone or bring a group. Allow yourself at least 3 hours to fully enjoy games on three fields; the challenge field, Fort Sasquatch, and Big Woods. Open Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Directions: 368 NE Waaga Way Bremerton, Wash.
Tired of the insomnia caused by all the late hours you stayed up underway playing Call of Duty? How about trying those sweet video-game skills in a non-lethal, but realistic environment.
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One of many things I am looking forward to when this deployment is over is driving my own car. Many Sailors may be getting ready to purchase their first car and know exactly what they want, but dealerships make a lot of money off the uninformed. I should know; I worked for Toyota for a couple of years. I’ve got some tips and tricks to teach so you don’t get swindled on the lot.
Car Buying Tips to Avoid Being Ripped Off Story by MC3 Katarzyna Kobiljak
Illustration by MCSN Seth Coulter
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This is not an impulse buy. Dealers make money on people who are not prepared. Whatever story you are going to hear like “that is the best offer” or “this is the last one,” I can pretty much guarantee the car will be there tomorrow and most likely the price will drop. There are often two or three dealerships of the same brand in your area. Once you decide on the brand, color, interior and options you should call them all and ask for a price. Just because the price on the sticker says $30,000 it doesn’t mean that is what you should pay.
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DON’T MAKE A RUSH DECISION
It all depends on your needs. Again, we have internet and if you really need that top rack for your bike or those awesome 22-inch alloy wheels, check and compare prices online. Buying from the dealership is a quick way to pay top dollar for something you can get cheaper elsewhere, but make sure, whatever accessories you add onto your vehicle will not cancel your manufacture warranty.
ACCESSORIES
Just because you like that new sports car or huge truck it doesn’t mean you should buy it. You need to think of the payment you can afford if you are going to finance. Is it a new or a pre-owned vehicle? How many miles are you going to drive per week/per month? How much will you pay for car insurance, and how much you spend on gas? Take all these things into consideration when you budget your monthly car payment.
$WHAT CAN YOU AFFORD?
There are many websites that can help you such as www.customerreports.org or www.edmunds.com. When you see a car that appeals to you don’t just research that one particular model; look and compare it to the competition and test drive them all. Remember, a test drive doesn’t cost you anything and, because of the amount of money you are spending, you should make an informed decision.
DO YOUR RESEARCH
Unless you are buying it from your family and you know how the previous owner treated the vehicle I am personally against used cars; even if they are listed as certified. Dealerships make big bucks on used cars. I can tell you that I only drove this car on the weekends or that I changed oil regularly, but how do you know I am telling the truth? Carfax will not tell you if I floored it on every light or if I really kept it in my garage. The same is true with dealer demos. If you are buying a new car shouldn’t it really be new? A new car shouldn’t have more than 20 miles on the odometer.
If you decide to go with a pre-owned vehicle check
www.carfax.com to make sure it is not a salvaged car or that it hasn’t been in any major accidents. If you have somebody who knows cars ask them to come with you to take a look before you purchase. Ask for maintenance records and check what modifications have been done to vehicle. Major things to look for are engine and transmission issues, but don’t forget to inspect breaks and tires. You are entitled to test a drive pre-owned vehicle. Mention to your sales person you would like to have a mechanic do a quick check up before you sign your paperwork. If they refuse you know not to finish the deal.
NEW OR USED
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“I cannot do that but let me ask my manager”. The sales person is authorized to do the same thing that floor manager can. They just want to bring in another person who will try to change your mind.
“If you like I will get you that option aftermarket.” Basically they will install a part that is really not worth half of what you are paying for and your warranty might be cancelled because the part is not factory installed.
“I know you said, you checked the value in the Kelly Blue Book but your car is not in a very good condition. I will try to work it out for you”. Many sales people will tell you they work for you but the truth is when they see you, they see a sale. Don’t fall for it.
“Today is our last super sale day and I will get you the best price possible.” Let me tell you – every day is a sale day
Last but not least: whoever talks first at the negotiating table will lose. So keep it cool, you got this!
DIRTY TRICKS OR WARNING SIGNS
When you make up your mind, have a check in hand, done all your research and narrowed down the dealerships it is good to go on the last day of the month. Some dealerships have a quota they have to make and they are more likely to negotiate with you.
I recommend something called low balling. I would start negotiating at 20-25 percent less than original price and take it from there. Just because you will negotiate that 20 percent it doesn’t mean that is what you are paying. Don’t forget about taxes, dealer fees, license plates and so on.
Even if you have to take two hours in the financing office - don’t let anybody rush you. Read every page and make sure the price you have negotiated is the exact same price that is on your contract.
TIMING NEGOTIATE
READ WHAT YOU SIGN
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TRADE IN
If you have a trade in check its value on www.kellybluebook.com first and then either sell it to your family or a buddy. If you cannot find a buyer go to Carmax and they will buy your car.
TO FINANCE OR NOT TO FINANCE
That is a good question. How is your credit? The best option is to go to your own bank and finance a car with them. With a good credit score you can probably get a loan for as little as 1.8 percent APR for 60 months. When you get approved you will get a check that you will take with you to the dealership. Just because you got approved for $40,000 doesn’t mean you have to spend it all. Remember payment!
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Photo by MCSN Ignacio Perez
parting shot
AOAN Wintferd Pearson moves ordnance in the hangar bay during a weapons offload evolution.
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