Naval Construction Battalion Center, Gulfport, Mississippi April 11, 2013Vol. 53 No. 15

www.cnic.navy.mil/gulfport

Gunners Mate 2nd Class Craig Williams and Sgt. Seth Leamon assigned to Naval Con-struction Group (NCG) 2 practice grappling techniques as part of the Marine CorpsMartial Arts Program (MCMAP) taught by Staff Marines of Inspector-Instructor 3rdPlatoon (Rein) Company A 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion, 4th Marine Division onboard Naval Construction Battalion Center (NCBC) Gulfport, April 8. MCMAP is a com-bat system used by Marines that combines hand-to-hand and close-quarters com-bat techniques open to all branches of service. Once the students graduate, theywill be awarded their first or next belt, representing their proficiency in the MCMAP.(U.S. Navy photo by Construction Mechanic 3rd Class Katchen Tofil/Released)

Perfecting techniques

SAN DIEGO, Calif. -- (NNS) --The Navy has cancelled theremaining 2013 performancesof its Flight DemonstrationSquadron, the Blue Angels. The squadron will continue

to train to maintain flying pro-ficiency until further notice atits home station in Pensacola,Fla.Recognizing budget realities,

current Defense policy statesthat outreach events can onlybe supported with local assetsat no cost to the government.

This is one of many steps theNavy is taking to ensure re-sources are in place to supportforces operating forward nowand those training to relievethem.Changes that hit closer to

home include restricting sup-port for community eventssuch as parades and static dis-plays at festivals to the follow-ing criteria. Authorization forlocal area engagement (up to100 miles) is authorized only ifthere are no additional costssuch as fuel, meals or otherexpenses to the government.

U.S. Navy cancelsBlue Angels 2013performancesFrom Commander, NavalAir Forces Public Affairs

Holocaust Days of

Remembrance April 18, 11 a.m.

Seabee MemorialChapel

Sponsored by NCBC Multicultural Diversity Committee

If you are like many Americanswho’ve attended college, you probablyfinanced your way through with thehelp of student loans but without pay-ing much attention to the details.After all, higher education was fordecades considered to be one of thewisest investments around. Unfortu-nately, the rising costs of tuition cou-pled with the recent economicdownturn have resulted in many peo-ple finding themselves tethered tohuge loan balances without the hugeincomes they imagined. If this sounds like you, then the first

thing you should do is realize you’renot alone. A recent report from theFederal Reserve Bank of New York es-timated that approximately one-thirdof all student loans not in repaymentare more than 90 days past due.Meanwhile, the average debt load isover $28,000 and rising every year.The next thing you need to do is takecharge of your financial future with

the three-step method shown below.Step 1: Survey the scene - As a

legal assistance attorney advising aclient with student loan issues, I al-ways start by diagnosing the problem.Specifically, you need to determine:what kinds of loans do you have, whoowns them, and the status of eachloan.Although simple in theory, it can be

difficult in practice. Many studentsdon’t fully understand where their stu-dent loan money comes from untilafter graduation. It’s important to de-termine whether you have publiclyheld subsidized or unsubsidized loans,private loans, PLUS loans, or somecombination of the above. Publiclyheld loans and PLUS loans are backedby the Department of Education andtend to have lower interest rates andmore flexible repayment options. Pri-vate loans, on the other hand, tend tohave higher interest rates, may fre-quently be sold to other private com-panies, and typically have morerestrictive repayment options. Look at the statements you receive

in the mail or in your inbox to begintracking these loans down. Many loanproviders will have websites and on-line payment options as well. Onceyou’ve tracked the providers down,you must then determine the status ofeach loan: are they in deference, for-bearance, repayment, or default?Typically loans are deferred while youare still in school and go into repay-ment a few months after graduation.Periods of forbearance may be grantedfor short periods due to hardship, butthat is usually up to the lender. Fi-nally, a loan is in default when youhave failed to make a payment duringa period of repayment. In addition tolooking at your loan providers’ web-sites or paper statements, your creditreport will contain a wealth of infor-mation about type and status of yourloans.Step 2: Explore All Loan Repayment

Options - Now that you’ve gotten ahandle on the big picture, it’s time toexplore your repayment options.When it comes to public loans, there

April is designated SexualAssault Aware-ness Month (SAAM). The SafeHelpline pro-vides live, one-on-onecrisis support. CALL:877- 995-5247 CLICK: www.Safe-Helpline.org; or TEXT: 55-247

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NCBCCommanding Officer

Capt. Rick BurgessPublic Affairs Officer

Rob MimsEditor

Bonnie L. McGerrMass Comm. Specialist

MCC(SCW/SW/AW) Ryan G. Wilber

Special ContributorsCM3(SCW) Katchen Tofil

CECN(SCW) Lucinda Moise

The Seabee Courier is aweekly authorized on-linepublication for members ofthe military services and theirfamilies. Content does notnecessarily reflect the officialviews of the U.S. Govern-ment, the DoD or the U.S.Navy and does not imply en-dorsement thereof. The ap-pearance of advertising in thisnewspaper, including insertsor supplements, does notconstitute endorsement bythe U. S. Government, DoD,the Navy or NCBC Gulfport ofthe products and services ad-vertised. All content in thisnewspaper shall be madeavailable for purchase, use orpatronage without regard torace, color, religion, gender,national origin, age, maritalstatus, physical handicap, po-litical affiliation or any othernon-merit factor of the pur-chaser, user or patron. If aviolation or rejection of thisequal opportunity policy byan advertiser is confirmed,the publisher shall refuse toprint advertising from thatsource until the violation iscorrected. The Seabee Couriersolicits news contributionsfrom military and civiliansources, but the Public Affairsstaff reserves the right to editand/or rewrite material se-lected for publication to con-form with journalismstandards. The deadline formaterial is close of businessevery Friday. Your commentsare always welcome. TheSeabee Courier office is inBuilding 1, Room 205. Themailing address is 4902 Mar-vin Shields Blvd., Code 15,Gulfport, MS 39501. Phone:228-871-3662., Email:seabeecourier@navy.mil

Fraud, Waste andAbuse Hotline: Dueto limited IG resourcesthroughout the Southeast Re-gion, all Fraud, Waste andAbuse hotline work will nowbe handled by the Region. Toreport Fraud, Waste andAbuse, contact the Region at:Toll Free 1-877-657-9851Comm: 904-542-4979 DSN942-4979 FAX: 904- 542-5587, E-mail: CNRSE_HOT-LINE@navy.mil.

LEGAL: Taking control ofstudent loan debt

By Lt. Michael R. Ellis, JAGCNew Orleans Legal AssistanceOffice, RLSO SE

See DEBT page 8

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Aroundthe

More than 600 Seabees assigned to Naval Mobile Con-struction Battalion (NMCB) 74, and their family members,participate in a Zumba class led by MWR Fitness Assis-tant Lydia Dahlke for physical training at the Mini Grinderon board NCBC, April 5. NMBC 74 invites family membersfor PT once a quarter to boost unit morale. (U.S. Navy photoby Construction Mechanic 3rd Class Katchen Tofil/Released)

Suniman Keny (left) and Diane Boss, both store workersfor the Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), restock ba-nanas at the Commissary on board Naval ConstructionBattalion Center (NCBC) Gulfport, April 3. The Commis-sary offers deli hot and cold sandwiches and fresh sushifor an easy lunch. Store hours are Sundays, 11 a.m.-6p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 a.m.- 7 p.m., Wednes-days, Fridays and Saturdays, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. (U.S. Navyphoto by Construction Mechanic 3rd Class Katchen Tofil/Re-leased)

Center

Chief Master-at-Arms Talia Woods, a student at Expeditionary CombatSkills (ECS) School, gives instructions as the convoy commander dur-ing convoy simulation training at the Tactical Training Facility buildingon board NCBC, April 2. Convoy simulation training helps the studentsof ECS apply skills attained in a classroom to real life situations. (U.S.Navy photo by Construction Mechanic 3rd Class Katchen Tofil/Released)

“I don’t drink over my limit.”

“I have a plan before I goout.”UTCN(SCW) Thomas

Dawkins

NMCB 74

Hometown: Raleigh, N.C.

“I volunteer to pick up mybuddies if they need a ride.”

“What do you do to practice responsibledrinking?”

SW3(SCW)Austin Bracelin

NMCB 1

Hometown: New Holland, Pa.

By CECN(SCW) Lucinda MoiseNCBC Public Affairs

Buzz on

the Street

Daniela Pagan

NCBC

Hometown: Utica, N.Y.

Chief Petty Officers (CPOs) ofthe Mississippi Gulf Coast met atthe Anchors and Eagles Chiefs’and Officers’ Club on boardNCBC Gulfport to celebrate the120th birthday of U.S. NavyCPOs, April 1. The day alsomarked the end of the U.S. NavyMemorial’s Year of the Chief(YOTC), a year to honor allCPOs who have served, past andpresent.Each year, the Navy Memorial

chooses a group within the Navyto honor. After 119 years of ex-istence and 13 Master ChiefPetty Officers of the Navy(MCPONs), the CPO communitywas chosen to spotlight its his-tory, heritage and contributions.MCPON Michael Steven’s CPO

365 guidance was one of themain topics spoken of duringNCBC Gulfport’s birthday cele-bration.“The way we have done things

over the years has changed,used to do things different, notwrong just different,” said NCBCGulfport Command Master ChiefMark Thomas. “It takes chiefs tomake chiefs. … So, we’ve got toput it together, and we’re goingto have the best season we canmake.”There has been a lot of discus-

sion within the Chief communityabout whether the Navy still hasa proper induction or initiationfor CPOs in light of CPO 365, butNaval Construction Training Cen-ter (NCTC) Gulfport CommandMaster Chief Chris Levesque

said that there is only one titlethat matters.“It’s all about titles; initiated,

inducted, CPO 365, who cares.The only title we’re looking for isthe title of a Chief Petty Officer,”said Levesque.Many chiefs were happy to

have their community high-lighted over the year, proudlywearing their YOTC t-shirts andhanding out limited editionYOTC coins to deserving juniorsailors. For those selected dur-ing fiscal year 2012 the eventwas even more meaningful.“It is very special to me, be-

cause I made it during the Yearof the Chief and this is the firstbirthday as a CPO, so it means alot to me,” said Chief BuilderDoug Rathert, assigned to NavalMobile Construction Battalion(NMCB) 1.For some the day brought

mixed emotions, celebrating abirthday, but also the chiefs’special year coming to a close.“As the Year of the Chief it’s

pretty exciting, but that it’s thelast day it’s kind of bittersweet.It’s fitting that we started withthe Chiefs’ birthday and endedwith the Chiefs’ birthday, and Ithink it brings back a lot of theheritage and tradition of whatwe do as chiefs, and I think it’simportant that we have the Yearof the Chief to let the troopsknow that we know where we’recoming from and what we’vedone and keep those traditionsongoing,” said Senior ChiefEquipment Operator HelenDaniel, assigned to Naval MobileConstruction Battalion (NMCB) 74.

For many chiefs, networking isa key to success. Thomas saidhe also thinks camaraderie isimportant and would like to seemore social events on base.“What I want to do is get peo-

ple down here to hang out to-gether, have some food, havesome drink and just be merry.That’s what I think is important,and we need to do more of it,”said Thomas. “Anytime that wecan get together as a group,and socialize, network and buildthat camaraderie it makes it awhole lot easier on us as ateam. It also allows our troopsto see that we are fully function-ing together as a team. It is im-portant that as chiefs we get outand talk to each other, andknow where each other is com-ing from,” added Daniel.As is birthday tradition a cere-

monial cake was cut before foodand drinks were served. Chiefsare often found encouraging

their Sailors to have a plan, besafe and look out for one an-other, the chiefs in attendancewere encouraged to do thesame.

“Make sure everybody has asolid plan, and lets take care ofeach other,” said NCG 2 Com-mand Master Chief DuaneSharp.

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Gulf Coast CPOscelebrate birthday,conclusion ofYear of the ChiefBy MCC(SCW/SW/AW)Ryan G. WilberNCBC Public Affairs

From left, Naval Construction Battalion Center (NCBC) Gulfport Command Master Chief MarkThomas, Chief Equipment Operator Justin Hallahan, assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Bat-talion (NMCB) 11 and youngest Chief present, and oldest Chief present, Naval Construction Group(NCG) 2 Command Master Chief Duane Sharp, cut the ceremonial birthday cake during a U.S. NavyCPO 120th birthday celebration at the Anchors and Eagles Chiefs’ and Officers’ Club on board NCBCGulfport, April 1. The day also marked the end of the U.S. Navy Memorial’s Year of the Chief, a yearto honor all CPOs who have served, past and present. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass CommunicationSpecialist Ryan G. Wilber/Released)

Naval Construction Battalion Center (NCBC) Gulfport CommandMaster Chief Mark Thomas addresses Mississippi Gulf Coast ChiefPetty Officers (CPOs) during a U.S. Navy CPO 120th birthdaycelebration at the Anchors and Eagles Chiefs’ and Officers’ Clubon board NCBC Gulfport, April 1. (U.S. Navy photos by Chief Mass Com-munication Specialist Ryan G. Wilber/Released)

Armed Forces MC 2013 Navy-Marine Corps Relief Fund Poker Run . . . A poker run tobenefit the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society(NMCRS) is scheduled for April 20 at the AFMCClubhouse, 11007 Wolf River Road, Gulfport. Registration is at 10 a.m., first bike out at 11a.m. and last bike in at 4 p.m. For more information, contact call 228-229-2816.

Pitch In, Use the Bin! NCBCis a No Litter Zone!

People who have previously de-ployed are well aware of the con-fusion the military medical systemcan sometimes create. The Navyhas created a new position to as-sist Sailors with those concerns. Hospital Corpsman 1st Class

Tammy Madison is now in the roleof Resource Referral TrackingManager(RRTM), supporting de-mobilizing Navy reservist and re-deploying Navy active dutymember after their departurefrom the Navy Mobilization Pro-cessing Sites (NMPS).

HM1 Madison provides a "safetynet" for those members through-out the referral process and as-sists, as needed, navigating theTRICARE, Veterans Affairs MedicalCenters (VAMC), and MilitaryTreatment Facilities (MTF). Shemaintains a data base for thosequestions to ensure the membersconcerns are resolved. Besides addressing member’s

questions, the RRTM also tracksreferrals to completion using asystem designed specifically forthis program, allowing annotationof each contact such as appoint-ment updates and completedmedical care. This is further as-surance that members have a

complete military medical record. For Reserve Component, this

documentation is shared withCNRFC, and Active Componentmembers have documentation ofcompletion forwarded to their Par-ent Command. Medical care and case manage-

ment are not provided throughthis office. This program is specifi-cally designed to ensure Sailorsmedical needs are met and com-pletion is reported to the properChain of Command.“I’ve been dealing with deploy-

ing and redeploying Sailors since2004, so I have several years ofexperience, said Madison. I havea strong understanding of the mil-itary culture and stressors associ-ated with a wartime deployment.I know what to expect when theycome back. My customer serviceskills are built on that foundationand utilized daily. This job is fullycustomer service oriented andgeared toward the needs of ourSailors.”The Resource Referral Tracking

Manager program was created byCapt. Linda Geisaka, CommanderNavy Installations Command(CNIC) Headquarters, Global Sen-ior Medical Officer. According to Capt. Geisaka,

Madison was more than qualifiedto fulfill the role of RRTM.

“I have known HM1 Madison fora long time. She has an excellentwork history and has exceeded ineverything she’s done,” statedGeisaka.

Currently, HM1 Madison is theonly RRTM Navy wide. She isavailable to Sailors worldwide, an-swering many questions regardingmedical benefits and entitlements.

For more information concerningthe post-deployment referralprocess, she can be reached thruthe Navy 311 Program at 855-628-9311.

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Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Tammy Madison, Commander, Navy Installations Com-mand Headquarters Detachment Resource Referral Tracking Manager (RRTM), assists aSailor over the telephone inquiring information about Tricare. As the RRTM, Madison helpsSailors who need assistance accessing Tricare, Military Treatment Facilities and the U.S.Department of Veterans Affairs. (U.S. Navy photo by Construction Electrician ConstructionmanLucinda L. Moise/Released)

By CECN Lucinda L. MoiseNCBC Public Affairs

Navy institutes new position: Resource Referral Tracking Manager

NCIS has two new anonymousways to report crimes or sus-picious behavior with the useof discreet and secure onlineor texting tip lines.To report information byCell text:1. Text “NCIS” to the shortcode 274637 (CRIMES) fromany cell or smart phone.2. Receive a response, for ex-ample: “Your alias is: S2U5 Call911 if urgent! If replies put youat risk, text “STOP”3. Begin dialogue

To report information On-line:1. Go to www.NCIS.navy.mil,click on the “Report a Crime”tab and select the icon for “textand Web tip Hotline.”

See Something Wrong, Do Something Right!

There is a reward of up to $1,000 for infor-mation leading to a felony arrest or ap-prehension

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Race Engines, Dirt Bikes,ATV’s, Cigarette Boats,

ZodiacsAre you up to the challenge of hard work and repairingunique SOF equipment?

Naval Special Warfare Development Group is seeking ac-tive duty Construction Mechanics and all other Seabeerates.

- Motivated/Volunteer- Pass Navy PFA- E4 - E6- No NJP- No bankruptcy- Obtain Secret/TOP Secret clear-ance

Email us at !DEVGRURecruiting@vb.socom.mil orcontact your detailer to request additional information.

Above: JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - Builder 2nd Class Michael Nordquest, assigned to Con-struction Battalion Mobile Unit (CBMU) 202, Detachment Jacksonville, digs to lo-cate a water line at Naval Air Station Jacksonville. The Seabees are transforming avacant lot into a new park with seating areas, a pavilion with benches, landscap-ing, drainage and sidewalks with curbing. The park is being built as part of the pre-vious demolition of former building 921, the former site of the Fleet Air PhotographicLaboratory. (U.S. Navy photo by Sue Brink/Released) Right: SASEBO, Japan - EquipmentOperator 3rd Class Jason Lincolnpons, from Concord, Calif., removes a large stoneduring the excavation of a drainage ditch designed to prevent flooding at a muni-tions storage facility. Lincolnpons is assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion(NMCB) 5's Detail Sasebo, which is currently deployed to Japan performing con-struction readiness operations in support of U.S. Pacific Command. (U.S. Navyphoto by Engineering Aide Constructionman Casey Smith/Released)

Seabees dig deep to meet the mission

The future prosperity of any com-munity depends on its ability to fos-ter the health and well-being of thenext generation. When a communityinvests wisely in children and fami-lies, the next generation will paythat back through a lifetime of pro-ductivity and responsible citizenship. Yet, when not all children have

equal opportunity for healthy growthand development — due to experi-ences of child abuse and neglect —we put our future at risk. While April is Child Abuse Preven-

tion Month, you can make a big dif-ference year-round through smallacts that help protect children,strengthen families, promote traitsthat help protect families — and, ul-timately, prevent the abuse andneglect of children. Here is a list of simple tips that can

have a positive effect on the well-being and healthy development ofchildren, families and communities.Print the tips out and hang on yourfridge or post in your office as a re-minder of things you can dothroughout the year to prevent childabuse and neglect!For your family:

~ As a parent, block out 15 min-utes a day to play one-on-one withyour child — doing anything he orshe wants. We know from studiesthat the more parents engage inpositive activities with their children,the less they use negative physicaland psychological discipline.

~ Tell the children or youth in yourlife how much you care for themand appreciate them. All childrendeserve to have someone who is“crazy about them” and loves themunconditionally.

~ Work with the kids in your life toexplore their heritage and learntheir family’s story. Every family hasa rich story to tell and our connec-tions to our past help us carry for-ward our values and traditions. ~ Connect with grandparents to

preserve cultural heritage. Grand-parents are an incredible source ofcultural heritage — from traditionsto language to food! Encouragethem to tell stories to their grand-children and even visit their schoolsto share where they come from.

For friends and neighbors:~ Compliment a father . . . some-

one you know or even someone inpublic . . . on something positiveyou see him do with his children.Dads contribute uniquely to chil-dren’s development.

~ Offer your time to baby-sit forthe child of a friend, neighbor orfamily member. All parents needhelp sometimes — even if it is justto rest or “recharge” for an hour ortwo.

~ Mentor a young dad you knowin growing his relationship with hiskids. Some young dads may needhelp with transportation or in identi-fying helpful resources for their chil-dren. ~ Support parents looking for a

job by offering your professionalknowledge and experience in re-sume writing or preparing for a jobinterview. Financial stability links di-rectly with family stability and canhave a big effect on the emotionalwell-being of caregivers and theirchildren.

~ Build community trust and to-getherness by inviting friends toparticipate in a meaningful culturalevent in your life. Helping peoplelearn about your culture may helpthem understand that despite somedifferences, we have a lot in com-mon — especially the need for sup-port now and then.

~ Be a resource and “soundingboard” for a dad who is separatedfrom his children. Dads providequalities and benefits for their chil-dren no one else can.

~ Arrange a potluck event in yourneighborhood to get to know otherparents and their kids. Friends andneighbors can give outstanding sup-port to families in times of need orstress. For your community:

~ Sponsor, volunteer at or partici-

pate in a cultural event in your com-munity. Families come from differentcultural backgrounds that all bringvalue in creating caring and com-passionate communities.

~ Do volunteer work for a youth-or family-serving organization inyour community. Some families justneed a little help from time to time,and community organizations aredesigned to do just that.

~ Take action on legislative issuesthat affect children and families. Callyour elected representatives, joindemonstrations and be sure alwaysto vote to show that you supportservices to help families raisehealthy children.

~ Introduce yourself to yourneighbors. Caring and connectedneighborhoods can be powerful inreducing neighborhood violence andsupporting struggling parents.

~ Create a “Safe Children Zone” inyour neighborhood. Host a commu-nity meeting with your neighbors totalk about what each of you can doto help create a sense of safety forthe children in your neighborhood.

~ Volunteer at or donate resourcesto a local preschool or daycare cen-ter. Early education builds the foun-dation for a lifetime of healthy braindevelopment.

~ Ask yours or another faith-basedorganization in your communityabout donations — even small ones— that can be made to support fam-ilies in need. Some families needhelp providing for their children’sbasic needs.

~ Contact your local child welfareand family-serving agencies and askabout volunteer opportunities. Eachof us has a role to play in creatingsafe and healthy communities forchildren.

~ If you have reason to believe achild may be at risk of harm in theirhome, call your local child abusehotline. Anyone who is worriedabout the well-being of a child cancall to report their concerns.Naval Construction Battalion Cen-

ter (NCBC) Gulfport will formallyproclaim its position in the fightagainst child abuse with a proclama-tion signing April 18 at 2:30 p.m., atthe Fleet and Family Support Center,building 30. All NCBC military, civil-ian employees and family membersare invited to witness the signing. 7

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Child Abuse Prevention MonthApril is Child Abuse Prevention Month, but you can actto support families and protect children all year roundFrom the American HumaneAssociation www.americanhumane.org It doesn’t matter if you’re a gardening novice trying to supplement your

dinner table with some home-grown veggies or an entrepreneur thatearns a living off the land, composting is a simple way to go green andhelp save the environment.You don’t have to be an environmentalist to compost, either. Compost,

which is organic matter that has been decomposed and recycled and usedfor fertilizing soil, is great for your garden and will help reduce landfillwaste. In addition, composting in your home garden will help you savemoney.“Using compost means your garden will be more cost-effective because

you will have to spend less on fertilizers, insecticides, and fungicides for agiven harvest of any crop,” says Brett L. Markham, author of “The MiniFarming Guide to Composting,” the latest in his Mini Farming book series. Across the country people are embracing the concept of self-sufficiency

and preparedness, “mini farming” anywhere, from rooftop urban gardensto suburban backyards to larger land plots. Growing food is easier thanever and composting is a huge part of this movement.Markham, who also has written the bestselling “Mini Farming: Self-Suffi-

ciency on 1/4 Acre” as well as mini farming guides to fermenting and veg-etable gardening, offers these gardening tips to get started oncomposting:• Composting is a natural form of recycling, so use food waste, grass

clippings, coffee grounds and even paper as compost. Just be sure toshred the paper first to speed up the process.• Start your compost pile in a convenient spot, and make sure it is semi-

shaded and well-drained.• Add bulking agents such as wood chips to accelerate the breakdown of

organic materials, allowing the finished material to fully stabilize and ma-ture through a curing process. Add leaves, straw, or hay along with grassclippings or green manures for plenty of bulk.Each layer should be no more than two inches so that the grass clippings

or leaves don’t get matted down to form a layer impermeable to air.• Keep the compost moist. Either water it yourself or let rain take care of

it. The compost should be moist, but not soaked.• Cover the compost pile to help retain moisture and heat. This will also

help prevent the compost from being over-watered by the rain.• Turn the compost pile with a shovel or a fork to aerate the pile. It is

important to water the pile as you turn it as well. Turning the pile addsoxygen to the compost which is necessary to get the most out of yourpile.• Once you add the compost to your garden, you’ll be ready to start

planting in two to five weeks!You can learn more about composting, mini farming, and self-sufficiency

at www.MarkhamFarm.com/mainsite. Composting is the first easy step to helping the environment while grow-

ing your own food. So make the most out of your garden, and start dig-ging.

Keeping it GreenTips to start compostingfor your gardenFrom StatePoint Media, Inc.

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“Oh crud, we need to do ourtaxes,” I recently exclaimed tomy husband, as I do every yeararound this time.After exhausting every reason

to procrastinate – cleaning outthe vegetable drawer, perusingold Hickory Farms cataloguesleft over from Christmas, clip-ping toenails, surfing E-bay forvintage bar signs, napping – wefinally faced the music. Coffee and a folder haphaz-

ardly filled with paperwork inhand, my husband and I reluc-tantly plopped down in front ofour computer to complete thedreaded annual tax forms. We haven’t had the best luck

preparing our tax forms overthe years, and are conditionedto avoid the experience. De-spite my law degree and myhusband’s master’s degree in fi-nance, neither of us evergrasped the simple conceptsrelevant to our personal incometax forms. In law school, I took a course

Tax Law and could write ascholarly paper on whether thefederal income tax is a directtax or an excise tax based onthe Sixteenth Amendment andthe Supreme Court’s opinion inthe Pollock case, but I struggledwith my 1040EZ. My husband’s master’s thesis

at the Naval PostgraduateSchool was entitled “Congress,Defense, and the Deficit: AnAnalysis of the FY 1996 BudgetProcess in the 104th Congress,”but he couldn’t tell the differ-ence between short and longterm capital gains if his retire-ment depended on it.But every year, we begrudg-

ingly spread out our paperworkand somehow fulfill our obliga-tions as taxpayers.One year, we wanted to act

like grown ups, so we hired anaccountant while stationed inNorfolk. He was a charmingsouthern gentleman with blueeyes, silver white hair and amatching tidy moustache. Hecalled me “ma’am” and politelysat with us one balmy eveningin the early days of spring. Overthe season’s first lemonades,we casually chatted about ourfinances, and he gathered allthe information he needed toprepare and file our returns. Itwas so easy, we wondered whywe hadn’t been doing it thisway all along.The next year, we tried to

contact our charming account-ant to do our taxes again, butstrangely, he never returnedour calls.We soon found out that he

couldn’t call us back because hewas locked up in the big house.Turns out, our southern gentle-man was politely holding him-self out as a CPA without alicense, embezzling fromclients, and obtaining moneyunder false pretenses. Oops.Back to the drawing board.Since then, we have been

using Turbo Tax, a seeminglyidiot-proof program which leadsthe user through a simplifiedseries of questions designed to

accurately calculate all incomeand deductions. Somehow, myhusband and I still have no ideawhat is going on.“Do we qualify for the child

tax credit?” I asked, as my hus-band slurped his coffee. “Heckif I know . . . just do whateverwe did last year, that seemed towork” he said nonchalantly. “I forget, do we have Roth

IRAs or regular IRAs?” I said afew minutes later. Rifflingthrough a pile of papers, myhusband found our statements,which might as well have beenwritten in Chinese. “Roth, butwhat on Earth is a ‘recharacter-ized contribution?’”My eyes started to cross as I

tried to decipher our mutualfund papers. “Is ‘cost basis’ thesame as ‘purchase price?’” Isaid, searching my faded mem-ory bank. “I don’t know, justpunch in $200 and see whathappens,” my husband sug-gested. After four hours, two pots of

coffee, three calls to our finan-cial manager, and at least adozen choice expletives, we fi-nally figured it all out and duti-fully sent our forms off to UncleSam.We won’t get our return check

for several weeks, but rest as-sured, we’ve already spent it,and lost the receipt. When ourbank statements arrive, wewon’t know how to balance thecheckbook. And next spring,we’ll be back in front of ourcomputer, dazed and confusedall over again. Apparently, thereare a few more things in lifethat are certain aside fromdeath and taxes. Get more wit and observationsfrom Lisa at her blog, http://the-meatandpotatoesof- life.com.

‘The Meat & Potatoes ‘The Meat & Potatoes of Life’of Life’

By Lisa Smith Molinari Military Spouse Contributer

How many idiots does ittake to fill out a 1040?

are a number of government programs available to help. For example, the Income Based Repayment (“IBR”) program allows you to

index your public loan payments to your annual income. The IBR program is agreat option to begin making small but qualifying payments without going intodefault. In addition, the IBR program will forgive the remainder of your publicloans if you make 120 continuous payments while employed in a government orpublic service job. In other words, by making a payment every month on timefor ten years, your entire public loan balance will be forgiven no matter howsmall the payment or how much is left. The catch: you must stay in the militaryor work in a qualifying public service capacity in order to take advantage of theloan forgiveness feature. As of December 2012, there’s another option called Pay As Your Earn (“PAYE”)

that builds upon the IBR program and provides some additional benefits to qual-ifying borrowers. Unlike public loans, private loans do not qualify for the pro-grams described above. Instead, you typically have to work out a repaymentschedule with each individual loan provider. As military service member, however, you have an extra arrow in your quiver

via the Service Members Civil Relief Act (“SCRA”). The SCRA allows you to re-duce the interest rate on student loans of all types to 6%. This is potentiallyhuge savings over the life of the loan, particularly with regard to expensive pri-vate loans. The SCRA also allows you to place loans into military defermentduring your active duty service. Although a great option for struggling familiesthat simply can’t make qualifying payments, military deferment is not the rightchoice for everyone. Loans in military deferment continue to accrue interesteven though you are not required to make payments. The only exceptions aresubsidized public loans, which do not accrue interest during military deferment.Moreover, loans in military deferment are not eligible for the IBR and PAYE pro-grams. Finally, the interest accrued is “capitalized”, meaning the interest isrolled into the principle, which results in the loan growing exponentially fastereach and every year of deferment. So be careful.Finally, all loans can be consolidated, which can provide you with a simplified

payment process and an overall lower interest rate. But be careful. Consolidat-ing public loans with a privately held company can dramatically limit your op-tions, and consolidating pre-service loans will negate your ability to takeadvantage of the SCRA.Step 3: Develop a Plan - Now that you’ve determined how to best take advan-

tage of the options available for each of your loans, it’s time to develop a planfor the future. I find that the biggest impediment for most people is simplykeeping track. The maze of websites and the frequency at which student loanschange ownership is frustrating and confusing for even seasoned professionalsto keep up with. Luckily, there are number of cheap solutions to these problems. I recommend

that my clients enlist the help of a money management program such asmint.com, Personal Capital, Quicken, YNAB, or one of the many others available.Both mint.com and Personal Capital allow you to see the status of all of your fi-nancial accounts at once, which can take the hassle out of managing modern fi-nances. Both are free and have smartphone apps that allow you to view yourentire financial situation on the go. Programs like Quicken and YNAB cost a lit-tle more, but also provide powerful budget forecasting options that allow usersto project financing and budgeting decisions into the future. Combining a budg-eting tool like Quicken or YNAB with a free tracking program like mint.com orPersonal Capital puts users firmly in control of their financial futures.Finally, Sallie Mae -- the biggest servicer of publicly held student loans -- re-

cently introduced the Upromise program, which merits an entire article in itself.In general, Upromise offers a number of options to help chip away at your stu-dent loan balances such as special reward credit cards, online savings accounts,and much more. It’s worth a look.The bottom line is that no matter how bad the situation you have options, and

as a member of the Armed Forces, you have more options than most. When indoubt, talk with your local military legal assistance provider to learn more aboutthose options and good luck. This article is not intended to substitute for the personal advice of a li-

censed attorney. Contact the Naval Construction Battalion Center (NCBC)legal office by calling 228-871-2620 for an appointment.

From DEBT page 2

With less than nine weeks remaining inthe school year, fewer for seniors in highschool, does your child need help gettingover the end of the year hump?Tutor.com offers help with homework,studying, and test preparation in morethan 16 subjects from elementary math tophysics. This program is provided by the Depart-

ment of Defense. Authorized patrons in-clude U.S. active duty military servicemembers, Reservists, National Guard per-sonnel on active duty in a deployed sta-tus, DoD civilians in a deployed status,and all authorized dependents. If your student has become bogged

down in a particular course Tutor.com canprovide FREE, unlimited access to onlinetutoring. Expert tutors are ready to helpstudents of all ages—from K-12 to collegeto adult learners—one-to-one in math,science, social studies and English, as wellas with resume writing, and interviewpreparation. Help is available 24 hours aday, seven days a week.To obtain assistance, students simply

enter their question and become con-nected to a tutor in an interactive onlineclassroom where they will work one-to-one until the problem is solved. All tutors are screened, certified and

background-checked. All sessions arerecorded and reviewed for quality control. To access the program, log in to Navy

Knowledge Online account and click onthe REFERENCE tab. Look for theTutor.com box in the right column, andclick on the links "Kids and Teens" or"Adults" to get a tutor. Authorized userswill then follow instructions on the Website for password and login information. It is also about this time that the pres-

sure to get high marks on exams kicks in.Students who get nervous before a testshould be encouraged to try the followingtips and strategies for keeping anxietydown and energy up for the next bigexam.Don't cram: Studying like crazy the

night before an exam can leave your childexhausted and more stressed out thanbefore.

Make up practice questions or take prac-tice tests: Knowing the format and styleof a test can reduce anxiety. Encouragestudents to always ask their teachersabout how the test will be formatted. Get a good night's sleep: Lack of sleep

contributes heavily to anxiety. Be sureyour child goes to bed on time the nightbefore an exam.Eat a healthy breakfast: Blood sugar is

at its lowest in the morning. In order tothink and problem-solve effectively, stu-dents need to refuel. Read through the exam to budget time:

By looking over the test, your child canavoid any unexpected surprises (and anxi-ety). Previewing also insures finishing inthe allotted time.Read all directions: Some students are

so anxious to get the test over with thatthey fail to read the directions.Jot notes: Jotting down brief notes right

away can help your child feel less anxiousabout forgetting important facts or key in-formation. Some students write impor-tant formulas or critical dates in themargin as soon as they receive their testpapers.Answer easy questions first: Getting the

easier questions out of the way buildsself-confidence and allows your child thetime to focus more clearly on the harderquestions.Organize thoughts before writing: Stu-

dents who organize their writing re-sponses before they start writing typicallyscore higher. Having a plan or even ashort outline insures a well-structured re-sponse which hits all the main points.Think positively: Negative thoughts dur-

ing a test (e.g., "I'm going to fail") cannot only destroy your child's confidence,but also take up valuable time whichshould be used to concentrate on thetest!Using these tips won't necessarily keep

anxiety away completely. However, prac-ticing these techniques can give your childthe right skills to manage test stress whenit does happen. Hopefully a combinationof tutoring through Tutor.com and practic-ing these test tips will help your childachieve success and readily promote tothe next grade.

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Focus on Education Focus on Education

NCBC School Liaison Officer, Kevin Byrd is located at MWR, Building 352, 1706 BainbridgeAve., NCBC, 228-871-2117 (office), 228-224-4521 (cell) or email: kevin.r.byrd@navy.mil

Coastline Community College to hold early summer registrationCoastline Community College will hold early registration for their summer term (June 18 - Aug. 11)from April 9 - May 28. For additional information, contact Dr. David Drye in the Navy College Offi-cer, building 60, room 239 or at 228-871-3439/2785 or at the website, http://military.coastline.edu

Less than 9 weeks to reachthe school year finish lineFrom Kevin ByrdNCBC School Liaison Officer

CDC Fitness Intramural sportsmakes working out fun. Thisseason, sign up for softball orthree on three lunchtime basket-ball. Get a group together andmotivate each other to push thatwork out a little further withsome healthy competition. Signup today at the Fitness Center. Spring can be a busy time on

the job. Find balance and relax-ation in yoga class. The CDC Fit-ness Center offers morning andafternoon yoga classes for yourconvenience. Improve your bal-ance, strength, flexibility andposture all in one with a yogastyle that promotes intensity andrelaxation. Summer is right around the

corner. Are you ready for thebeach? The CDC Fitness Centerhas everything you need to helplose pounds, tone up targetareas or just plain feel better.The Center has top of the linecardio and strength trainingequipment and plenty of it - soyou don’t have to stand aroundwaiting for machines. There arealso racquetball and basketballcourts, softball and soccer fields,and a running track. Equipmentis available for rental at the frontdesk. And don’t forget to finalizethat healthy routine with a relax-ing visit to the sauna.

Visit an island and be home in

time for dinner. Ship Island Ex-cursion tickets are now on saleat ITT at great low prices foradults and children. Vouchersare valid now through October27. Ship Island is located elevenmiles offshore and consists ofMississippi’s undeveloped barrierislands. Call ITT today for moredetails. On a budget? No worries - you

can still afford to get away withITT’s military discounted pricesthat aren’t available anywhereelse – not even online. Design afun-filled, high quality customtrip for you and your crew.Whether you have a day or aweek, there is fun around thecorner at the local breweries,beaches and hotels. Mobile, NewOrleans and Pensacola are onlya short distance away. Stop bytoday to design your worry freeadventure. Visit Disney World or enjoy an

exciting Disney Cruise wheredreams come true! Stop by ITTbeside the NEX and receive aFREE child’s Disney growth chartthe last Wednesday of everymonth. Call 228-871-2231.

The Liberty program offersmultiple recreation opportunitiesfor the single sailor or unaccom-panied active duty personnel ofNCBC Gulfport. This FREE facilityhas Wi-Fi, pool tables, individualTVs with headphones that playcable or movies, a big screenwith recliners, computers and a

fully equipped video game room.Liberty also provides FREE shut-tles to shopping and diningareas and an exciting monthlycalendar of trips offered at dis-counted rates. Call or visit NCBCLiberty on Facebook for hours ofoperation and additional details.Search NCBC Liberty.Do you just need to get away

from base? Hitch a ride with theLiberty Center. Liberty is offeringa FREE shuttle to the EdgewaterMall on Thursday. The shuttledeparts at 6 p.m.Tired of eating at the same

places or in your room? Hopaboard the FREE Liberty shuttle.Liberty is offering its DowntownLong Beach Dinner Dash on Fri-day; departing at 6 p.m.

You can be sure to find thebest prices around at NOR. Stopby and pick up a price list for allof your spring outdoor plansfrom boats and camping gear toparty favorites like bouncehouses. NOR’s pricing can’t bebeat. NOR is open Monday, 8a.m. – 1 p.m., Thursday and Fri-day 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Satur-day 7 a.m. – 1 p.m.Don’t sit around in your room

bored when you could be havingfun with friends at the Beehive.Sit back and enjoy the flatscreens, play a little pool, andjust have fun! With an excellentbeverage selection, you are sureto find your preference. Call

228-871-4009 for info.

Don’t let a busy work weekruin your eating habits. The Grillhas healthy food options on themenu. Just look for the apple!Need a menu for your office orwant to place a delivery order,call 228-871- 2494. The Grill isopen Monday – Friday from 6:30a.m. – 1:30 p.m. and offerslunch delivery 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Don’t skip the most important

meal of the day because you arein a rush? Call your order in atThe Grill and it will be readywhen you get there. The Grill isopen as early as 6:30 a.m. andoffers a variety of tasty optionsfrom French toast plates tobreakfast burritos or traditionaleggs and bacon. The Grill is lo-cated at the corner of Colby and7th Street.Anchors & Eagles: Great serv-

ice and good times are what youcan expect at Anchors & Eagles.Open Tuesday - Thursday 2 - 9p.m. and designated for chiefsand officers. Stop by and shakeoff the day with comrades.

Don’t miss Big Screen MovieNight Friday from 6 – 9 p.m. Foronly $2, enjoy popcorn and anexciting film with all yourfriends.On Saturday from 9 a.m. – 3

p.m., get out of the house forthe Youth & Teen ScavengerHunt Extreme. The Hunt is only$5. There is always something fun

to do at the YAC. On Tuesday,take your pick between ScooterRaces or a Basketball Hot ShotChallenge. Events are from 5:30- 8:30 p.m. and are absolutely eFREE!

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Anchors & EaglesAuto Skills CenterBeehive All Hands ClubChild Development CenterFitness CenterInformation, Tickets & TravelLiberty CenterSeabee Heritage CenterNavy Outdoor Recreation Shields RV ParkThe GrillTraining HallYouth Activities CenterMain Office

228-871-4607228-871-2804228-871-4009228-871-2323228-871-2668228-871-2231

228-871-4684228-871-3619228-871-2127228-871-5435228-871-2494228-871-4750228-871-2251228-871-2538

FREE Movies at the Training

Hall have been suspended

until further notice.

Please continue to check

Facebook or call the movie

line 228-871-3299 for updated

scheduling. We apologize for

the inconvenience.

FREE MovieProgram at theTraining Hall: Take a load off.Sit back andwatch the big

screen all by yourself for some alonetime, or make it a family night and

bring the whole crew! Stop by theSnack Bar on your way in to get thatbuttered movie popcorn and thoseother goodies that help you get lostin the moment. Forget what wasplaying? No worries - put the moviehotline in your phone, 228-871-3299and call anytime!

MWR Program contact information MWR Program contact information

Fitness

Information, Tickets and Travel

Liberty Center

Food and Beverage

Youth Activities

Navy Outdoor Rec

RAMP FOR DISABLED CHILD - There is anurgent need for three volunteers to constructan ADA compliant ramp in Gautier for a childwith disabilities. If you can help, please con-tact Cynthia Singletary, 228-388-2401 or csin-gletary.life@gmail.com .USO GULF COAST - The USO Gulf Coastneeds 14 - 16 volunteers to work at the USOinformation at the Gulfport - Biloxi Interna-tional Airport. The desk will be staffed sevendays a week between 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Volun-teer shifts will be five hours long (8 a.m. – 1p.m. and 1 p.m. – 6 p.m.) Volunteers are re-sponsible for greeting guests, directing themto the USO lounge and answering generalquestions about local hotels, restaurants,casinos, and events in the area. Resourceswill be provided to volunteers to assist withrecommendations. To register to volunteerplease visit www.USOVolunteer.org. GULFPORT CENTRAL MIDDLE SCHOOL -GCMS, 1310 42nd Ave, Gulfport is asking for10 proctor/hall monitors April 10, from 7:30 -11:30 a.m. Contact Erwin Gilliam, GuidanceCounselor, 228-870-1020.

FLORENCE GARDENS 5K RUN - Twelvevolunteers are needed for the Florence Gar-dens 5K Run April 13, 4 p.m. All proceeds willbenefit Make a Wish. Volunteers are neededto assist with parking, registration, water sta-tions and other key components of the race.Florence Gardens is located at 12321 Preser-vation Drive Gulfport. If you are interested involunteering, please contact Vicki Parkhill,228-539-5039, ext. 6 or email www.florence-garden.com.BRANTLEY GILBERT CONCERT - TheSeabee Ball Committee is looking for 50 vol-unteers to support the Brantley Gilbert Con-cert, April 18 at the Coast Coliseum. If youare interested, please contact LT NathanChenarak (new Seabee Ball officer in charge)at Nathan.chenarak@navy.mil.HONOR FLIGHT - The April 23, Honor Flightis in need of 62 volunteers in the morning tohelp the veteran's as they arrive at the Gulf-port airport, and 200 or more that evening towelcome them home. This is a big event forthe community and we have historically beenthe first to greet the veterans and the first to

welcome them home. Uniform for the eventwill be Type I or III. Muster for the morning is5 a.m. The evening time is still to be deter-mined, but in the past it has been approxi-mately 6:30 p.m. Contact Chief Ryan Wilberat ryan.g.wilber@navy.mil ASAP if you wish tovolunteer.SMOKIN’ THE SOUND AND SMOKIN’ THELAKE - Smokin’ the Sound and Smokin’ theSound, April 26 - 28, and Smokin’ the Lake,May 4 - 5, are returning to the MississippiGulf Coast. Race organizers are asking forvolunteers to sell and attach wrist bands toevent spectators, director spectators to view-ing areas and perform other volunteer serv-ices. Volunteers will be provided with ameal. If you are interested in volunteering,please contact Chief Ryan Wilber atryan.wilber@navy.mil or stop by the NCBCPublic Affairs Office, building 1, room 205, nolater than April 12.NORTH GULFPORT 8th GRADE PROC-TORS - North Gulfport 8th Grade, 4715 Illi-nois Avenue, Gulfport is looking for testproctors for May 1, 14, 15 and 16. Proctor

training sessions will be April 24 -30 in theCounselor’s office. If you are unable to at-tend proctor training on the dates listed,other arrangements can be made. To volun-teer, please contact Sherry Johnson, 228-864-8944 or Shejohnson@harrison.k12.ms.PASS CHRISTIAN BOYS & GIRLS CLUBSOFTBALL BENEFIT- Four volunteers areneeded to serve as umpires at the “BasesLoaded for Boys and Girls Club Adult Co-edSoftball Tournament,” May 4. The tournamentwill be held at Klondyke Road Fields, LongBeach. Teams are also welcome - fee is $150per team. Parties interested in volunteering orentering a team can contact Leah Ladner, Bal-four Beatty Communities, 228-863-0424 orlladner@bbcgrp.com LONG BEACH SCHOOL DISTRICT has re-quested proctors for the May State tests.Contact Christ Spinks, Assistant Superinten-dent, at 228-864-1146 for information.ORANGE GROVE ELEMENTARY - OrangeGrove Elementary, 11391 Old Highway 49,Gulfport is in need of six volunteers May 1, toserve as test proctors and 35 volunteers, May

14, 15 and 16 to serve as proctors. Volun-teers are asked to report to the school by7:30 a.m. Please contact Stephanie Schep-ens, 228-365-0204 for more information. CENTRAL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL - Volun-teers are needed to serve as proctors at Cen-tral Elementary School, 1043 Pass Road,Gulfport, for state testing May 14 - 17. If youare able to help, please contact JessicaMitchell at jessica.clincy@gulfportschools.orgor 228-865-4641.FIELD DAY VOLUNTEERS - Bel-Aire Ele-mentary School, 10531 Klien Road, Gulfport isasking for 40 volunteers to help out at theschool’s Field Day May 17, 7 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.Volunteers will assist with running the games,helping out at the concession stands and su-pervising the bounce house. If you are inter-ested, please send an email toctclemons@bellsouth.net.COAST SALVATION ARMY NEEDS VOL-UNTEERS - Volunteers are need for variousprojects throughout the year. ContactShawna Tatge for info, Shawna_Tatge-@uss.salvationarmy.org.

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Center Chaplains: Lt. Cmdr. Paul Smith, Protestant Chaplain

Lt. Yoon Choi, Protestant ChaplainFor information concerning other faith groups,

call the chapel office at 228-871-2454Services: Gospel Service: 8 a.m.

Sunday Catholic Mass: 9:30 a.m.Weekday Mass: Tuesday, 11:15 a.m.Divine Worship: Sunday, 10:30 a.m.

Seabee Memorial ChapelSeabee Memorial Chapel

NCBC Helping Hands volunteer opportunitiesNCBC Helping Hands volunteer opportunities

Looking for a church?The Seabee Memorial Chapel holds services every Sunday that might suityour needs. Protestant Services include a Gospel Service at 8 a.m. andDivine Worship Service at 10:30 a.m. Catholic Services include CatholicMass at 9:30 a.m. There is also Catholic Mass Tuesdays at 11:15 a.m.Seabee PantryThe Seabee Pantry needs restocking. During the holidays, the need forfood donations is at its highest level. Please donate as many canned goodsand other nonperishables as possible. Donation drop-off sites are locatedat the Navy Exchange, Chapel, Commissary, Fleet and Family Support Cen-ter and Armed Forces Retirement Home. The Seabee Pantry is for anyone affiliated with NCBC.Praise and WorshipThe Seabee Memorial Chapel is looking for new members for the Praise andWorship Team for the Divine Worship Service at 10:30 a.m. Sundays. If youcan sing or play an instrument, you are invited to come share your gift.Women’s Bible Study Women’s Bible Study is held Wednesdays at 11 a.m. at the SeabeeMemorial Chapel. Free child care is available. For more information onall offerings that are available, contact the chapel at 228-871-2454.

Chapel Offerings

From Chief of Naval Personnel - Military Pay Sys-tem Audit . . . The Department of Defense Military paysystem will undergo a scheduled audit in the near future.Part of the audit includes verifying pay transactions andensuring personnel documents, including Leave andEarnings Statements, are updated in Official Military Per-sonnel Files (OMPF). Service members are asked to en-sure LES and OMPF files are accurate and up to date.Questions regarding the audit may be forwarded to CCL-MB-MILPAYOPS@dfas.mil.

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SUPPORTFamily Readiness Groups NMCB 1 FRG invites friends and family mem-bers to attend FRG meetings the first Monday ofevery month at the Youth Activity Center, build-ing 335. A potluck dinner is served at 6 p.m., fol-lowed by a meeting at 6:30 p.m. Children arewelcome and babysitting is provided during de-ployment. Contact FRG President Jenny Richter,e-mail nmcbonefrg@gmail.com. NMCB 11 FRG For more information regardingthe NMCB 11 FRG, please visitwww.facebook.com/nmcb11frg or email us atnmcb11frg@gmail.com.NMCB 74 FRG All families of NMCB 74 are in-vited to the 74 FRG meeting the third Monday ofeach month. Meetings are at the MWR Youth Ac-tivities Center, building 335, behind the Grinderon NCBC. Socializing begins at 5:30 p.m., andmeetings begin at 6 p.m. Bring a covered dish toshare at our potluck dinner. Children are wel-come. Email nmcb74fsg@yahoo.com or visit ourFacebook page at “NMCB74 Fearless FRG” formore information.NMCB 133 FRG invites all friends and familymembers to attend FRG meetings the first Mon-day of the month at 6 p.m. at the Youth Center.Children are welcome and babysitting is pro-

vided. Please bring a dish to share. For more in-formation contact FRG President Jaime Royal at317-730-4064 or email NMCB133fsg@gmail.com.Log on to the FRG site,http://www.wix.com/NMCB133 FSG/133frg. FOCUSFamilies OverComing Under Stress (FOCUS),provides resiliency training to service membersand their families by teaching practical skills tohelp meet the challenges of military life, includ-ing how to communicate & solve problems effec-tively and to successfully set goals together.Confidential and free with family-friendly hours,contact FOCUS today! Call 228- 822-5736 oremail Gulfport@focusproject.orgGulfport Officer’s Spouse ClubThe Gulfport Officers’ Spouses’ Club is a socialorganization that has FUN while helping ourcommunity. We meet monthly and have specialinterest groups for almost everyone! For moreinformation, email goscgulfport@yahoo.com. Wehope to see YOU soon! Navy Wives Clubs of America, Inc. The NavyWives Clubs of America, Inc. is interested inreestablishing a club in the local area. If you areinterested in joining an organization that pro-motes the health and welfare of any enlistedmember of the Navy, Marine Corps or CoastGuard, please contact Darlene Carpenter at 228-342-2271 or Tina O’Shields, 228-357-0513. Visitwww.navywivesclubs-ofamerica.org for more in-formation on NWCA. NMCRS The Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society ThriftShop is located in building 29 on Snead Street.The Thrift Shop is staffed entirely by volunteers,and child care and mileage are reimbursed. Re-tail hours of operation are Tuesday, Wednesdayand Friday, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Volunteers are al-ways welcome. Visit the NMCRS offices at theFleet and Family Support Center, building 30,

suite 103 or call 228-871-2610 to find out howto become a part of the NMCRS volunteer team!Gamblers AnonymousThe Fleet and Family Support Center offers GAmeetings every Thursday at 11 a.m. GA is a fellowship of people who share their experience,strength and hope with each other. All meetingsare confidential and facilitated by GA. Come to a meeting or call Jim Soriano at 228-871-3000 fordetails.TRAINING Naval Sea Cadets The Gulfport branch of theNaval Sea Cadets are recruiting youth ages 11 to17 for Sea Cadets, a nation-wide organizationthat help youth achieve personal successthrough nautical training. Meetings are the thirdSaturday of the month from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m.,building 1, 2nd floor conference room. ContactLt.j.g. Bowling at 228-313-9035 orcoachcb@yahoo.com for details.SOCIAL Miss. Gulf Coast First Class Association isalways looking for new members. Meetings areevery Wednesday at 2:30 p.m., at the FitnessCenter classroom. For more information, contactAssociation president, CE1 Daniel Shaver, 228-871-2145. NCBC Multi-Cultural Diversity Committee isseeking members. Meetings are held the first and third Wednesday of the month at 9 a.m., at the Seabee Memorial Chapel. Contact BU1 Jerma Cloude, 228-871-2454 for details. VFW Post 3937 Long Beach is open Monday -Thursday from noon until 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday from Noon until 10 p.m., Sunday fromnoon until 7 p.m. The first Friday of the month is Seafood Night, the remaining Fridays areSteak Night. Breakfast is served from 7 to 10a.m. on Saturdays. VFW meetings are held thesecond Wednesday of the month at 7:30 p.m.New members are always welcome. Contact Post

Commander Bill North at 228-863-8602 for info. VFW Post 4526 Orange Grove is open dailyfrom Noon to 10 p.m. and located at 15206Dedeaux Road, Orange Grove. Meetings are thefirst Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m. All arewelcome and encouraged to attend. Call 228-832-0017 for more info. NMCB 62 Alumni GroupNaval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 62was recommissioned in Gulfport in 1966, and de-commissioned in 1989. To become a member, goto http://nmcb62alumni.org or for links toSeabee historical sites. Seabee Veterans ofAmerica Island X-1 Gulfport are seeking ActiveDuty, Reserve, Retired or Seabees who left themilitary after a short period of time. Island X-1Gulfport meets the first Thursday of each monthat Anchors & Eagles at 7 p.m. Contact Joe Scott(secretary) at 228-669-8335 orelevenoaks58@cableone.net or log ontowww.nsva.org for information. D.A.V. - Disabled American Veterans,Chapter 5 invites Veterans and future Veteransto monthly meetings held the 3rd Monday ofeach month at 7 p.m. Call Service Officer, SilvaRoyer at 228-324-1888 to find out more aboutour organization. HERITAGE The Seabee Gift Store is located in theSeabee Heritage Center Training Hall, building446. Hours are Monday -Friday, 10 a.m. to 4p.m., and Saturdays from 11a.m. to 3 p.m. Theshop has a variety of Seabee related memora-bilia, books and DVD’s. Contact the museum atwww.seabeemuseumstore.org or call the giftshop at 228-871-4779 for information on all thatis available.

To publicize your organization, send informationto seabeecourier@navy.mil

CENTERNOTES

The Society of American Military Engineers

(S.A.M.E.) is holding a scholarship fund raiser golf

tournament May 17, at 1 p.m., at Bay Breeze Golf

Course, Keesler Air Force Base. Lunch will be

served at noon and is included in the $75/player

fee or $260/4 person team fee. The event features

a $40K Shootout from mulligan participants. Mulli-

gans will be available for purchase for $5 or 3/$10.

To register, go to http://www.samegulfcoasttourna-

ment.com.

Semi Annual Semi Annual ScholarshipScholarshipGolf TournamentGolf Tournament