Wendy...Up Close and Personal

Welcome to Wendy's Page...More Up Close and Personal than most on the Internet!

Defend America

Operation Homelink

BRAC : Base Re-Alignment
and Closure 2005

Ruby Tuesdays

Applebees

America Supports You

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Ft Hood (TX) MWR

123glitter.com

ARMY FITNESS TEST
CALCULATOR (UNOFFICIAL)

Click here to enlarge this picture...webpage for this picture is geocities.com/ravet2005/mtv1.html .

Click here to enlarge this picture...The webpage for Hinesville/Fort Stewart is geocities.com/ravet2005/HinFtSte.html .

DOD Transcripts

DOD News Releases

Today in the DOD

DOD News

DOD Contracts

A Great Lawyer in Merced, CA (Click Here)

USAA Savings Bank

Bank of America

Your Birthdate: December 6

You tend to be a the rock in relationships - people depend on you.
Thoughtful and caring, you often put others needs first.
You aren't content to help those you know... you want to give to the world.
An idealist, you strive for positive change and dream about how much better things could be.

Your strength: Your intuition

Your weakness: You put yourself last

Your power color: Rose

Your power symbol: Cloud

Your power month: June

What Does Your Birth Date Mean?

You Are Rain

You can be warm and sexy. Or cold and unwelcoming.
Either way, you slowly bring out the beauty around you.

You are best known for: your touch

Your dominant state: changing

What Type of Weather Are You?

Your Energy Level is Moderate

For you, life is all about balance. You keep active, but you rest a lot too.
You have enough vigor to get everything done... with a little left over for some fun.

You find that you have plenty of energy, as long as you give yourself time to recharge.
But if you don't take care of yourself, you notice that your energy levels really plummet.

What's Your Energy Level?

Your Five Factor Personality Profile

Extroversion:

You have medium extroversion.
You're not the life of the party, but you do show up for the party.
Sometimes you are full of energy and open to new social experiences.
But you also need to hibernate and enjoy your "down time."

Conscientiousness:

You have high conscientiousness.
Intelligent and reliable, you tend to succeed in life.
Most things in your life are organized and planned well.
But you borderline on being a total perfectionist.

Agreeableness:

You have high agreeableness.
You are easy to get along with, and you value harmony highly.
Helpful and generous, you are willing to compromise with almost anyone.
You give people the benefit of the doubt and don't mind giving someone a second chance.

Neuroticism:

You have low neuroticism.
You are very emotionally stable and mentally together.
Only the greatest setbacks upset you, and you bounce back quickly.
Overall, you are typically calm and relaxed - making others feel secure.

Openness to experience:

Your openness to new experiences is medium.
You are generally broad minded when it come to new things.
But if something crosses a moral line, there's no way you'll approve of it.
You are suspicious of anything too wacky, though you do still consider creativity a virtue.

The Five Factor Personality Test

You Are Not a Gold Digger

You go out of your way to take care of everything in your life.
Including money - which you've got plenty of, thank you very much.
And you have no intentions of being a trophy girlfriend for some bald guy.
Just make sure that hottie you met isn't scheming to be your boy toy!
As a successful woman like you knows, gold digging goes both ways these days.

Are You A Gold Digger?

Form DD-214

The National Archives

Central Valley Self Storage

Military Service Records

              GENEOLOGY                            HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

PARENTS:   Dad                                           JANUARY: Elora S., Desiree M., Mark C.
                    CW4, US Army, Retired             FEBRUARY: Martin W., Asti
                    Mom                                         MARCH: S. Thornton, Brandy, Justin, Jason, Lilly
                    Homemaker                               APRIL: Bryan, Will B., Tracy M.
BROTHER: Tom                                          MAY: Janette F., Jasmine M., Robert,
                    Distributor                                  Julieta, Robert, Kenny, Rocky
                                                                     JUNE: Kyle
SISTER-IN-LAW: Gigi                                   JULY: Tim W., President George W. Bush
                        Wal-Mart                               AUGUST: Brian McC., Tom
Children:      Jason and Family                         SEPTEMBER: Yvonne Smith, Beth L, Jamie Williams
                   Melissa and Family                      OCTOBER: Mom, Richard Y., Ralph T.
                   Travis, Elora, Allea                      November: Dad, Park, M. Southerland,
                                                                     DECEMBER: Me. Gigi Sebek, Mike G., Lilly

Wendy & Asti

What Can You do to Promote World Peace? Go Home and Love Your Family. - Mother Teresa

You Are Warm

You are as patient, as outgoing, and as nice as you can be.
You understand people well, and you mostly enjoy being around them.

You are a naturally warm person, but you do have times when you're feeling a bit distant.
But even when you're feeling distant, you try to be empathetic. You always go the extra mile.

How Warm Are You?

Awareness Magnets.com

Free-IQTest.net - IQ Test

ZIP CODES

This was altered: 03/20/09

By the way, My pages are not for profit...which means that I am not getting paid for anything I put on them. I despise people who put affiliate links on personal webpages to make money with thier personal websites. This/these pages are just a hobby of mine.

I am taking a break and Life needs a little tact and diplomacy. Everyone can relax. I like people for themselves, not what they can do and do do; who they are or what they own; or even their education level.

I had been working at Trapnell Quality Pre-Owned Autos in Hinesville for about two years.  :O)

Me is not MY Favorite Subject... I have a problem being around others who love to talk about themselves.

I don't have much to say on a daily basis, but when I do have something to say...I talk!

I won't be taking advantage of anyone...I know exactly how that feels.

Charitable...but I don't think of myself as this, just treating others like I would like to be treated if the situation ever comes to be...though, I don't let anyone take advantage, either.

I never intrude on someone else's personal space, unless invited...this includes within 3 feet around thier individual bodies or work/home space.

If I don't like you, you will certainly know it! (For Example: I won't be friendly to you..I will be civil only. I won't even smile when you are around.)

I love to do things right the first time...Sometimes, I even have trouble with this...

I love to do many certain things often...   :O)

A People Person...

Hard Working...

I Never ASSUME Anything...

Diligent...

Intelligent...

Fair...

Honest, to a fault...

Athletic...Rest cursor on "health" image at right.

Enjoys Pro-Choice Standards...

Average Maintenance...

Eclectic...

Eccentric...

I enjoy working at Trapnell Quality Pre-Owned Autos in Hinesville; Meeting People; Nature; Managing Webpages; 
Using Computers; Doing Crochet and Cross-Stitch ('Turlock Memories' has several)...
Yo hablo espanol, pero hablo Ingles Mas...

My typing stats are to the right...just rest your cursor to see what I have been up to in Hinesville, Georgia.

The last thing that I remember doing is putting on my main page that I approve my ex-husband and his new girlfriend. Isn't that nice of me?

The Websites below are links to individual pages from where I have been in the past...Just copy and paste the addresses in the address bar at the top of your browser. Enjoy!
 
Born in Chicago, Illinois* - 1970 (http://www.geocities.com/ravet2005/Cill.html)
(Birth/Baptismal Certificate and Wendy's Parents (http://www.geocities.com/ravet2005/DadMomSebek2.jpg) on this page.)
 
Bitburg/ (Website to Bitburg, Germany-http://www.bitburgbarons.org/bbaai/other_links.htm)
Spangdalem, Germany* - 1971-1973/74 (Website to Spandalem, Germany-http://www.spangdahlem.af.mil/)
 
Indianapolis, Indiana - 1974-1976/77 (Website to Indianapolis, Indiana-http://home.about.com/citiestowns/)

Chicago, Illinois (Birth/Baptismal Certificate on this page.-http://www.geocities.com/ravet2005/Cill.html)
Catholic School

Ansbach, Germany* - 1977-1981 (Website to Ansbach, Germany-http://www.usarmygermany.com/USAREUR_City_Ansbach.htm)
DOD Schools-Bleidorn and Katterbach (Website to these places)
Munich (-http://www.usarmygermany.com/USAREUR_City_Ansbach.htm)

Hinesville, Georgia - 1981-1986 (Website to Hinesville, GA-http://www.stateguide.com/ga/hinesville/)
Button Gwinnett (attended 08/81), Hinesville Middle (attended 08/82-6/84), 
Bradwell Institute (attended 08/85-8/86)
(Right Click for a new window to see-http://www.geocities.com/ravet2005/002-bradwell.jpg) for a Certificate* (added 2/18/04, grade report: 85-86)
Our Lady of Victory Chapel - Catholic Religion
Ft. Stewart-Catholic Services (Website to Ft. Stewart, GA-http://www.stewart.army.mil/)
Received The Holy Spirit 04/24/85 (added 5/14/04, picture dated 4/24/85-http://geocities.com/rawkei/HolySpirit42485.jpg)
Received Confirmation 04/24/85 (added 5/14/04, picture dated 4/24/85-http://geocities.com/rawkei/Confirmed42485.jpg)

Killeen, Texas - 1986-1990 (Website to Killeen, TX-http://www.stateguide.com/tx/killeen/)
My parents and I lived on Sungate Drive in Killeen.
Notable Hotspot: Cody's, The Texas Night Sky in the Summer
C.E. Ellison High School-(added 6/29/04, Ellison: 11th Grade Report-http://www.geocities.com/ravet2005/11thgrarep1.jpg)
C.E. Ellison High School-(added 2/18/04, Ellison: 12th Grade Report-http://www.geocities.com/ravet2005/002-kisd.jpg)
Texas DL (issued 09/12/88, added 06/10/04, cost $5-http://www.geocities.com/ravet2005/002-0TXdl2.jpg) 
Ranked #58 (added 2/18/04, picture dated 6/3/89-http://www.geocities.com/ravet2005/wencom89.jpg) 
Class of 1989 (added 2/27/04, picture dated 6/3/89-http://www.geocities.com/ravet2005/002-ellisoncommencement89.jpg)
Commencement Brochure (added 2/27/04, picture dated 6/3/89-http://www.geocities.com/ravet2005/002-ellisoncommencement89-2.jpg) 
Junior ROTC Program-High School Level (Website to Army JROTC-http://www.goarmy.com/rotc/index.htm)
Class "A" Uniform/Military Ball Picture (http://www.geocities.com/ravet2005/jrotc-me1987.html, pictures dated from 1987)
JROTC General Orders and They are the same as the US Army.
58th Street Chapel (http://www.geocities.com/ravet2005/ft-hood.html)*

Ft. Hood*-Catholic Services (Website to Ft. Hood, TX-http://www.hood.army.mil/fthood/)
Central Texas College*(Website to Central Texas College-http://www.ctcd.cc.tx.us/)
Right Click (http://www.geocities.com/ravet2005/002-kisd2.jpg) for a Certificate* (added 2/18/04, grade report Fall 1989)

Heidelberg, Germany - 1990-1993 (Website to Heidelberg, Germany-http://www.e-heidelberg.com/)
Sandhausen, Germany (My family lived here in Row Housing.)
Notable Hotspots: The 130th Station Hospital's "Recovery Room"; IOR (International Other Ranks) Club; The King's Arms & Bruchsal, Nurnberg, Munich, Heidelberg, Oberammergau
Overseas (Heidelberg,Germany) DL (issued 10/90, expired 11/30/96, cost $15)
HQUSAREUR* (Website to Headquarters USAREUR-http://www.hqusareur.army.mil/)
Right Click for for a Picture at http://www.geocities.com/ravet2005/002-mailhquseur7th.jpg*(added 2/17/05)
University of Maryland, European Division*(Website to University of Maryland-http://www.umaryland.edu/)
Right Click for a Certificate at http://www.geocities.com/ravet2005/002-UMgerB.jpg* (added 2/18/04, grade report dated 10/09/91)
Right Click for a Certificate at http://www.geocities.com/ravet2005/002-UMgPOAc.jpg* (added 2/28/04, grade report dated Term 3, 90/91)
Patton Barracks (Website to Kasernes-http://www.strandlab.com/germocc/kasernes.html)
Patrick Henry Village-Catholic Services
Child Development Services; MTV #1 - Program Assistant* (http://geocities.com/ravet2005/mtv1.html)*

Hinesville, Georgia* - 1993-2001 (http://geocities.com/ravet2005/HinFtSte.html)
My parents and I lived in a house in Hinesville (Thornwood Way).
Notable Hotspots: Hurricane's, Sports USA & River Street...Savannah
Georgia ID/DL (exam date: 10/09/97, expired 12/06/01, cost $12-http://www.geocities.com/ravet2005/002-dl.jpg)
Child Development Services; Bldg. 403 (Ft. Stewart) - Program Assistant-http://www.geocities.com/ravet2005/00-aWendy1.jpg
(Right click for a new window at the web address above for a picture.(added 12/23/03, dated 3/94)
H & R Block (Right Click at http://www.geocities.com/ravet2005/002_hrb.jpg for a Certificate)*added 2/11/04, dated 11/21/96)
VITA-Ft. Stewart, 1997 Tax Season - Tax Preparer, Office Work, Etc.* (Website to Ft. Stewart, GA-http://www.stewart.army.mil/)
Right Click for a new window to http://www.geocities.com/ravet2005/002-dot_irs.jpg for a Certificate*(added 2/11/04, dated 12/20/96)
Right Click for a new window to http://www.geocities.com/ravet2005/002_coatp1997.jpg for a Certificate*(added 2/11/04, dated 4/16/97)
VITA-Ft. Stewart, 1998 Tax Season - Office Work*(Website to Ft. Stewart, GA-http://www.stewart.army.mil)
Right Click for a new window at http://www.geocities.com/ravet2005/002-dot_irs2.jpg to see a Certificate*(added 2/11/04, not dated in 1998)
Savannah Technical College - A.A.T. (http://geocities.com/ravet2005/HinFtSte.html)*
DeLoach Marketing Enterprises - Research Specialist*(Website to DeLoach Marketing Enterprises...http://geocities.com/deloach_marketing_enterprises/)
Married June 19th, 1999 in Our Lady of Victory Chapel, Ft. Stewart* (http://geocities.com/ravet2005/HinFtSte.html)
Stewart Way Apartments - 302 W. Gen. Stewart Way, Apt. 22C; Hinesville 
(My husband and I lived here.- http://www.equityapartments.com/market/brochure.aspx?page=overview&PropId=1486)

Columbia, South Carolina - 2001-2003 (Website to Columbia, South Carolina-http://www.stateguide.com/sc/columbia/)
Colonial Villa Apartments -7645 Garners Ferry Road, Apt. 1010C: Columbia 
(My husband and I lived here.-http://www.morgan-properties.com/PropertyDetail.asp?PropertyID=9901)
Notable Hotspots: The Knock Knock Club; Banana Joe's & "Last Call" Augusta, GA; Helen, GA
South Carolina DL (added 05/23/04, issued 07/19/01, Cost: $15-http://www.geocities.com/ravet2005/002-0SCdl.jpg)
Ft. Jackson MP FRG (Secretary) (Website to Ft. Jackson, SC, LEA-http://www.jackson.army.mil)
2003 Ft. Jackson MP "Family of the Year"* (http://geocities.com/ravet2000/FOY2002.html)*
Right Click for a new window at http://www.geocities.com/ravet2005/002_coa17thmpdetftjsc.jpg for a Certificate*(added 2/28/04, presented in May/June 2003)
CVS/Pharmacy - Pharmacy Service Associate (Website to CVS)
Right Click for a new window at http://www.geocities.com/ravet2005/002-ptr63004.jpg  for the Certificate*(added 2/21/04, Expires 6/30/04)

Turlock, California - 2003-February 2006 (Website to Turlock, CA-http://www.ci.turlock.ca.us/)
Extra: Check here for Other Community Information (http://geocities.com/ravet2000/indeces.html)
Walnut Woods Apartment Homes - 275 E. Minnesota Avenue, Turlock (My husband and I live here.-http://www.rent-one.com/walwoods.htm)
Notable Hotspots: Crocodiles ; I-205 Outlet Stores ; Club Paladium ; Travis Air Force Base ; Sharpe Depot
California DL (received 07/03/04 , passed test 05/26/04, Cost: $24)
Turlock Recruiting Station (http://www.usarec.army.mil)
eBay Merchant (http:www.ebay.com) : have stopped for a while...
Central Valley Self Storage (geocities.com/centralvalleyselfstorage/)
Susan J. Hall-Martinez (mercedfamilylaw.com)  
 
Hinesville, Georgia* - February 24th, 2006-Present  (http://geocities.com/ravet2005/HinFtSte.html)
My parents and I lived in a house in Hinesville (Thornwood Way).
Notable Hotspots: Hurricane's, 309 West & Wet Willies on River Street...Savannah
 
 
* NOTE: The pages altered have (somewhat) current affairs articles on them. 
Check them out...You may get a kick out of a few of them!
 
This Area was Altered 10/05/06 by WMS-M.     These events / pictures / certificates 
are factual and not meant as boasting. Dates found and added, as well as when taken 
are next to the actual picture.

Stewart gets new brigade commander

The Associated Press
Posted : Friday Mar 20, 2009 7:47:30 EDT
   
FORT STEWART, Ga. � Col. Lou Lartigue is the new commander of the 3rd Infantry Division�s 4th Brigade Combat Team at Fort Stewart.

At a change-of-command ceremony Thursday, Lartigue replaced Col. Thomas James.

James will now serve as the 3rd Infantry Division�s chief of staff.

Lartigue comes to Fort Stewart from the Army War College National Security Fellow Program at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

���

Information from: Savannah Morning News, http://www.savannahnow.com

Dwell time may increase to 30 months by 2011

By Michelle Tan - Staff writer
Posted : Tuesday Feb 3, 2009 6:07:08 EST
   
Defense Secretary Robert Gates forecasts Army units will have 30 months of dwell time between deployments by fiscal 2011.

In his Jan. 27 testimony to the Senate Armed Services Committee, Gates outlined the most specific timeline to date regarding dwell time for a force that has endured repeated deployments and, for parts of 2007 and 2008, 15-month tours with 12 months at home.

�The estimates that I�ve been given are that by the end of fiscal year �09, we should be in a position where our brigade combat teams have a year deployed and 15 months at home,� Gates said. �In FY10 a year deployed, two years at home, and by FY11, a year deployed, 30 months at home. So I think we�re on the right track. The next few months will continue to be hard.�

Army Chief of Staff Gen. George Casey said Jan. 14 that he projects a slight increase in the number of soldiers deployed between now and mid-2010. He didn�t provide details, but he said the increase would be a temporary measure that should not disrupt the progress the Army is making to provide soldiers with more dwell time.

Soldiers traditionally have served 12-month combat tours, but in April 2007, Gates announced that active Army soldiers would begin serving 15-month deployments to support a surge of five brigades to help quell the growing violence in Iraq. At the height of the surge, 20 Army brigade combat teams were deployed at once � 18 in Iraq and two in Afghanistan.

The flood of troops into Iraq, particularly Baghdad, succeeded in reducing the violence there, and on Aug. 1, 2008, as the last of the surge brigades returned home, the Army moved back to 12-month tours. However, stretched by commitments in Iraq and Afghanistan, Army leaders continue to struggle to give soldiers more time at home with their families, away from the war zone.

A senior Army planner said he was surprised when he heard Gates� remarks on Capitol Hill, adding that 30 months of dwell time is possible but difficult to guarantee.

�It�s possible only with the reduction in demand or a growth in the available supply [of troops], both of which are potential things that could happen, neither of which I have any control over,� said the senior Army planner, who asked not to be identified.

�I think in the long term, the things that the chief [of staff of the Army] and others have described [is] as we grow the force and demand declines, dwell will grow,� the senior Army planner said. �Those demands are achievable, but we don�t know how far we are from achieving that.�

He also added that when Army leaders talk about dwell time, they are referring to units, not individual soldiers.

�Dwell is experienced by individuals,� he said. �It doesn�t matter how long your flag has been home. A visceral reality for soldiers and their families is that they experience dwell, but the complexity of the situation is such that Army leaders can only talk about dwell in [unit] flags.�

It is impossible, given the size of the Army and the countless moves soldiers and their families make throughout their careers, to ensure every single soldier receives a specific amount of dwell time, the senior Army planner said.

�[And] it takes a long time for decisions made today to produce the effects that individual soldiers and their families experience in the future,� he said.

The Army has 43 BCTs and the goal is to build to 48 by fiscal 2013, Maj. Gen. Sean Byrne told Army Times in December.

�We have made good progress with building these units, and they will go a long way toward reaching the Army Force Generation goal of a 1 [year deployed] to 3 [years of] dwell time,� he said.

Gates didn�t offer any details on how the Army could achieve 30 months of dwell time by 2011, and he cautioned that any reduction of troops in Iraq must be done carefully.

The Status of Forces Agreement between the U.S. and Iraq, which went into effect Jan. 1, calls for American combat troops to be moved out of Iraqi cities by the end of June and all troops out of Iraq by the end of 2011, Gates said.

�Though the violence has remained low, there is still the potential for setbacks, and there may be hard days ahead for our troops,� he said. �As our military presence decreases over time, we should still expect to be involved in Iraq on some level for many years to come, assuming a sovereign Iraq continues to see our partnership.�

Gates added that numerous options are being examined to determine the best way to reduce U.S. military presence in Iraq.

It�s difficult to know how the SOFA will be implemented, the senior Army planner said.

�We�re in this position where we�re not clear where the future is,� he said. �What�s clear is the demand now and the demand in Afghanistan.�

Gen. David McKiernan, the top U.S. and NATO commander in Afghanistan, has asked for up to 30,000 more troops to help defeat an increasingly complex insurgency in a country larger in size and population than Iraq and notorious for its rugged and unforgiving terrain.

So far, soldiers from 3rd BCT, 10th Mountain Division, have been sent to boost the number of troops in Afghanistan, and the 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division, will deploy there later this spring. In February, soldiers from 4th BCT, 25th Infantry Division, also will deploy to Afghanistan, but officials said their deployment is part of the regular rotation of troops, not an addition.

There are now 15 BCTs in the Central Command area of operations, 12 in Iraq and three in Afghanistan, the senior Army planner said, adding that he and his staff continue to plan for that level of demand four or five years into the future.

In addition to the BCTs, about half the Army�s force in Iraq and Afghanistan is made up of enablers, soldiers who don�t belong to brigade combat teams but who carry out essential support functions in theater. Also, the Army National Guard has five brigades conducting security force missions in the Central Command area of operations.

�We�re only supposed to get them once every four years,� the senior Army planner said about Guard brigades. �We�re turning them faster than that right now.�

He added that he doesn�t anticipate an increased reliance on Guard brigades to enable the Army to implement more dwell time for active-duty soldiers.

Gates said Jan. 27 that the Defense Department could have two more BCTs in Afghanistan by late spring and a third by the middle of the summer.

�I am prepared to support the requirements that General McKiernan has put forward,� Gates said. �I think it�s necessary, but I would be very skeptical of any additional American force levels beyond what General McKiernan has already asked for. [The] secret to success from a security standpoint is the Afghan National Army and the Afghan National Police, and I might add, a more effective, Border Control Police.�

The top priority for the U.S. and its NATO allies should be growing the Afghan army, Gates said.

�The Afghans have just agreed to an increase in the size of the Afghan army from ... 80,000 to 134,000,� he said. �I�m not sure that even that number will be large enough. ... Ultimately, a strong Afghan National Army and a capable, reasonably honest Afghan National Police represents the exit ticket for all of us.�

The Afghan army�s current end-strength is 80,397, said Navy Cmdr. Jeff Bender, a spokesman for Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan, which is responsible for all Afghan army and police training.

In 2008 alone, the Afghan army grew by 42 percent, adding 23,273 new soldiers to its ranks, Bender said. The desired end-strength is 134,000 soldiers by 2011, he said.

Afghan forces may need to grow to an end-strength of 300,000 to be effective, retired Gen. Jack Keane, a former Army vice chief of staff, told Army Times.

�Central to the solution in Afghanistan is a significant increase in Afghan security forces,� he said.

However, it will be impossible for the Afghan government to pay for the growth on its own, Keane said.

�This is a significant issue inside Afghanistan, having the financial resources to develop that force level and to be able to sustain it,� he said.

The cost to grow the Afghan army to a 134,000 end-strength likely is going to be $4 billion in the first year or two and about $2.5 billion in the years to come, Gates said Jan. 27, as he called on NATO countries to help defray those costs. In comparison, the Afghan national government�s income in 2008 was �probably $800 million,� he said.

Total Recall

Imagine the muscles of Arnold and the mental powers of Hawking . . . It may not be science fiction.

A buffed-up bod can make your brain more "bionic." Exercise actually induces cells to grow in areas of the brain related to memory. Here's how quickly you can expect a brain boost from your workout. (see below ?)

Shortcut to a Better Brain
In a study, people's performances on a memory test improved after completing a 3-month aerobic-exercise program.

But physical exercise isn't the only fast track to a keen intellect. A mental workout helps, too -- whether it's changing something that's part of your daily routine (the route you drive to work, the hand you use to move your mouse, the preset stations on your car radio) or tackling big brain challenges like learning a new language or solving the New York Times crossword puzzle.  Stretch your mind with this sudoku puzzle.

Here are 10 more ways to keep your mind sharp. 
Resolve to Exercise Your Brain

MONDAY, Jan. 1 (HealthDay News) -- Getting in shape tops many New Year's resolution lists, but the Alliance for Aging Research is encouraging Americans to boost their brain health, too.

"There is a lot we can do to keep our brains healthy and potentially prevent or lessen the cognitive decline that often comes with aging," Daniel Perry, executive director of the nonprofit Alliance for Aging Research, said in a prepared statement. "We are encouraging people to take steps to improve brain health as part of their overall fitness regimen for the New Year."

The Alliance for Aging Research recommends these 10 steps for improving your brain health.

Eat a Brain-Healthy Diet. A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids (commonly found in fish), protein, antioxidants, fruits and vegetables and vitamin B; low in trans fats; and with an appropriate level of carbohydrates will help keep your brain healthy. 
Stay Mentally Active. Activities such as learning a new skill or language, working on crossword puzzles, taking classes, and learning how to dance can help challenge and maintain your mental functioning. 
Exercise Regularly. Exercising often can increase circulation, improve coordination, and help prevent conditions that increase the risk of dementia such as heart disease, stroke and diabetes. 
Stay Social. Spending time with friends, volunteering, and traveling can keep your mind active and healthy. 
Get Plenty of Sleep. Not getting enough sleep can have a negative impact on brain health. 
Manage Stress. Participating in yoga, spending time with friends, or doing other stress-relieving activities can help preserve your ability to remember and learn. 
Prevent Brain Injury. Wearing protective head gear and seat belts can help you avoid head injury, which has been associated with an increased risk of dementia. 
Control Other Health Conditions. Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising, eating a well-balanced and nutritious diet, and controlling stress can help reduce your risk of diseases that affect your brain, including diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure and hypertension. 
Avoid Unhealthy Habits. Smoking, heavy drinking and use of recreational drugs can increase the risk of dementia and cognitive decline. 
Consider Your Genes. If your family history puts you at risk for developing dementia, work with your doctor to find ways to maintain your brain health to help avoid or slow the progression of cognitive decline.
More information

The National Institute on Aging has more about forgetfulness.

--Krisha McCoy

SOURCE: Alliance for Aging Research, news release, December 2006

Your health news is ready at RealAge! Every day, we collect health news based on your individual health interests. Read yours here.

Deputy Defense Secretary Named Great American Patriot 
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL 
    By Annette Crawford
Special to American Forces Press Service

FORT WORTH, Texas, Dec. 24, 2006 - Deputy Defense Secretary Gordon 
England received the first Great American Patriot Award here last night 
at a halftime ceremony during the Bell Helicopter Armed Forces Bowl 
at Amon G. Carter Stadium.

England, a Fort Worth resident, said he was very humbled by the 
award.

"Also in a way it's a little bit embarrassing," he said. "There 
should really be 1.2 million patriot awards. Patriot awards should be for 
all our magnificent men and women who serve our nation, so I accept 
this award on behalf of all of them, because they are the true 
patriots who protect and defend this country every day."

England spoke of the importance of America Supports You, a Defense 
Department program that showcases and facilitates American support for 
members of the armed forces. The Bell Helicopter Armed Forces Bowl is 
one of many events that has grown from partnering with America 
Supports You.

The program gives America an opportunity to support our military in 
their community, England said. "So often people ask me, 'What can I do 
to help our military?' I tell them, 'Go to AmericaSupportsYou.com.' 
It's a way of connecting the military with the American people, and 
therefore it's extraordinarily important," he said.

England said he wanted to the troops to know how much he appreciated 
their unwavering commitment.

"I want to thank them for their great, great service to America, and 
what they do every day to protect our freedom and liberties," he 
said. "If we did not have the United States military, Americans could not 
live the life they live every day.

"All our citizens owe our people in uniform. We owe them more than 
just a great deal. We owe them the life we live," he said.

"I also want to wish them a very merry holiday, to them and their 
families," England added.

After England received the award, more than 100 recruits from the Air 
Force, Army, Navy and Marines marched onto the field and he conducted 
their oath of enlistment.

The award was presented by Military Alliance and Associates LLC, 
known as MA3 LLC, as selected by the Military Affairs Committee of the 
Bell Helicopter Armed Forces Bowl. MA3 LLC is a military recruiting 
firm specializing in placing former military officers and NCOs into 
leadership positions in the private sector.

"Secretary England has displayed remarkable leadership in serving our 
country in three major defense-related departments the past five 
years," said Tom Starr, executive director of the Bell Helicopter Armed 
Forces Bowl. "We are honored to give our first Great American Patriot 
Award to him."

Starr added the bowl game was all about honoring servicemembers.

"This game is for them. We can't thank them enough. Hopefully, in 
some small way, this game will do that," he said.

Starr said Bell Helicopter's sponsorship of the game has been 
extraordinary.

"Bell Helicopter stepped forward when we changed the name to the 
Armed Forces Bowl," Starr said. "They have made a huge difference. They 
have been more than a partner.

"I've been in the bowl business 30 years," Starr continued, "and I've 
never been so proud, seeing all these men and women in uniform. I was 
in Vietnam, so this touches my heart as well."

The deputy defense secretary served in a variety of positions at 
Lockheed and General Dynamics before taking office as the 72nd secretary 
of the Navy in May 2001.

He then became the first deputy secretary of Homeland Security when 
that department was established in January 2003, integrating 22 
agencies with a common mission of protecting the American people. He 
returned to his post and was confirmed as the 73rd secretary of the Navy in 
September 2003 - only the second person in history to serve twice as 
chief of the Navy-Marine Corps team and the first to serve in 
back-to-back terms. He assumed the Pentagon's No. 2 post in an acting 
capacity in May 2005, and received a recess appointment to the position in 
January 2006. The Senate confirmed him in April 2006.

(Annette Crawford is assigned to Air Force Print News.) 
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doing in support of U.S. military men and women serving at home and 
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The Army's Current Enlistment Bonuses
 
Thinking About Serving? Get the information you need to decide if a military career is right for you. No obligation -- just free information from the branches of service that interest you.
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The Army offers many incentives for joining; these include several types of cash signing bonuses, education bonuses, and additional incentives. If you qualify for more than one bonus the Army may combine them to pay a combined bonus, which is not to exceed $40,000.

Most cash enlistment incentives may also be combined with either the Army�s Loan Repayment Program or the Army College Fund, but not both.

Army Cash Bonuses
The Army�s cash bonuses include bonuses for choosing a high demand military occupational specialty (MOS), for selecting a specific date to begin basic training, for being willing to leave for boot camp as soon as possible, for advanced civilian skills, and more.

The following is a quick summary of the current Army Cash Bonus:

High Priority MOS Enlistment Bonuses � up to $40,000 
Seasonal Quick Ship Bonuses � up to $10,000 
High School Sr. Bonuses � $1,000 
National Call to Service Bonus � Combined incentives equal to more than $23,000. 
Prior Service Incentives � up to $20,000 
Army Education Bonus � up to $8,000 
Airborne Training Bonus - $4,000 
Army Bonus for civilian skills � $5,000 
Priority MOS Bonus
There are currently three military occupational specialties for highly qualified recruits that will qualify for the $40,000 maximum:

Fire Support Specialist (13F) 
Radio and Communications Security Repairer (94E) 
Most other Army MOS bonuses range from $6,000 - for a 2-year enlistment to $10,000 - for a 3-year enlistment. But be sure to contact an Army recruiter for the most current bonus information.

Active Army seasonal/quick-ship bonuses
Seasonal bonuses range up to $10,000 depending on the priority of the MOS and an applicant�s willingness to accept an early ship date.  The current range is $3,000 to $10,000.  These bonuses are for applicants with and without prior service who enlist for three or more years.

National Call to Service 15-month Plus Training Option
Individuals who enlist for the 15-month plus training option will be eligible to select one of the following enlistment incentives:

A cash enlistment bonus of $5,000 payable upon completion of the initial active duty obligation; 
Student Loan Repayment of up to $18,000; 
A monthly education allowance for up to 12 months ($816 per month); or 
A monthly education allowance for up to 36 months ($408 per month).  
Army Education Bonuses for Prior College Education
The Army offers qualified applicants a cash bonus for previous college experience. Those applicants holding bachelors� degrees who enlist for two or more years in any MOS can earn $6,000.  Associate or two-year degree holders can earn $5,000.

Qualified high school graduates with 60 or more college semester hours can qualify for a $4,000 bonus, and those with 30 to 59 college semester hours can earn $3,000 for joining the U. S. Army.

Airborne Training Bonus
Qualified applicants who enlist for airborne training and a guaranteed airborne assignment in the active Army may be eligible for a $4,000 bonus, depending on the MOS they choose. This bonus may be combined with other enlistment incentives.

Active Army Bonus for Civilian Skills
Qualified applicants who already have civilian skills that the Army needs and enlist for three or more years may be eligible for a $5,000 bonus.

How the Army Pays Cash Bonuses
If you enlist for cash bonuses totaling more than $10,000 you will receive your initial payment of $10,000 upon successful completion of initial entry training.  The remaining bonus amount will be paid in annual increments.  Enlistment bonuses totaling less than $10,000 will be paid in one lump sum upon successful completion of initial entry training.  
Army Education Bonuses and Incentives
The Army offers several education related incentives including the following:

Student Loan Repayment � up to $65,000 to repay student debt. 
Army College Fund � up to $72,900 when combined with the Montgomery GI Bill. 
Student Loan Repayment Program
The Student Loan Repayment Program offers eligible recruits who enlist for at least three years up to $65,000 toward qualifying student loans.  LRP is available with MOSs that offer enlistment incentives.

Note: The Montgomery GI Bill and Army College Fund are not available with the Loan Repayment Program.

Army College Fund
The Army offers qualified applicants the Army College Fund, which combines with and increases the maximum Montgomery GI Bill benefit to $72,900 for individuals who qualify for this program.  The Army College Fund is available to active Army applicants who qualify for selected Army occupational specialties.

The Army College Fund amount is based upon the term of enlistment and the MOSs that are chosen at the time enlistment.  The current Army College Fund / GI Bill amounts are as follows:

2-year enlistment - $36,828 
3 years - $51,300          
4 years - $62,100 
5 years $69,300 
6 years - $72,900 (the maximum) 
Note: The Army College Fund � otherwise known as a GI Bill Kicker � increases the value of the GI Bill payment rate by as much as $950 a month.  The cash value of this benefit is determined by the number of months you actually attend school after your release from active duty.  This means that a full-time student who uses the total GI Bill 36 month of benefits (valued at over $38,000) can get as much as $72,900 in total benefits.

Additional Army Enlistment Incentive Programs
In addition to cash and education incentives the Army offers the following programs:

Accelerated Enlistment Program � This program provides you the opportunity to serve as a Soldier on active duty for just 15 months after completing your initial training. 
Blue to Green Bonus �Operation Blue to Green allows Navy and Air Force servicemembers to continue to serve their country, to maintain the benefits of military service. 
The Thrift Savings Plan - The Army is currently offering new recruits the opportunity to receive matching funds for a 401k style retirement invest plan. 
Accelerated Army Enlistment Option 
This program provides you the opportunity to serve as a Soldier on active duty for just 15 months after completing your initial training.

Here's how it works: You choose from up to 60 different Army specialties�ranging from Firefighter to Combat Engineer to Finance Specialist. The specialty you choose is based on your qualifications, your experience and, your abilities.

Apart from the skills you'll get and the chance to do something for your country, you'll walk away with either $5,000 cash or up to $18,000 to pay back your qualified student loans. Not to mention the fact that your student loan payments are deferred while you serve.

The skills you learn through the Accelerated Army Enlistment Option will be highly valued by civilian employers. You will have more than just training�you will have experience. So, ask yourself, where do you want to be in a couple of year's time? And find out how becoming a soldier can get you there much quicker.

This Enlistment Option has limited enrollment. Ask your local Army Recruiter for more details.

Blue to Green Bonus
An enlistment bonus of $10,000 or $15,000 may be available to Blue to Green recruits (coming from another branch of the Armed Forces) who enlist for three or more years in an MOS with a priority training seat. This bonus does not apply to recruits enlisting for an MOS for which they already have a rating or specialty that coverts to an Army MOS.

Other Benefits include:

E-1 through E-5 will retain their grade and same date of rank. 
All E-5's and above will have grade and MOS determined by EIS IAW with para 5 above
(E5s will retain current rank, unless, current MOS is over strength and they refuse to retrain in an MOS that allows E5 entry level training). 
Training - AFSCs or Rates that convert to Army Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) will only undergo the four week Warrior Transition Course (WTC). Retraining into other Army MOS may be possible based on individual's qualifications and training vacancies. Applicants enlisting for an MOS that requires One Station Unit Training (OSUT) will be inserted into OSUT after completion of the WTC. 
Bonuses may be available for selected Military Occupational Specialties that convert from an AFSC or Rate. 
Assignments - may be available for AFSC or Rate that convert to an Army MOS. 
Air Force and Navy personnel will be required to attend the Warrior Transition Course. (The Army developed this course to include Basic Combat Skills. This course will substitute for the current nine-week course in use to train Airmen, Sailors, and Coast Guardsmen enlisting in the Army.) 
Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) Matching Fund Program
All qualified non-prior service recruits who enlist for a minimum of five years in a priority MOS are eligible for the TSP Matching Fund Program incentive.  If you choose to take the TSP matching funds incentive you will get the first five percent of your TSP contributions matched by the Army -- dollar for dollar on the first three percent and then 50 cents on the dollar for the remaining two percent.  The TSP incentive may be combined with any other enlistment bonus.

The matching funds will stay in place for your entire first term of enlistment, 5-8 years.  You will not get matching funds if you discontinue contributions to TSP during your initial term or if you re-enlist; it will only be matched for the original contract period.

The Thrift Savings Plan is a Federal Government-sponsored retirement savings and investment plan.  The TSP offers the same type of savings and tax benefits that many private corporations offer their employees under "401(k)" plans. TSP was extended to members of the uniformed services in October 2000.

The standard TSP is available to all soldiers, who may enroll in the program at any time during their enlistment.  Soldiers can elect to contribute as much as 100% of their basic pay, including incentives, special or bonus pay, up to the annual IRS tax-deferred limit of $15,000.

Gay-ban repeal leader may leave Congress

By Rick Maze - Staff writer
Posted : Friday Mar 20, 2009 10:12:13 EDT
   
The expected battle over allowing gays to serve openly in the military may be delayed because the lawmaker who was supposed to lead the charge announced Thursday she could be leaving Congress for a post in the Obama administration.

Rep. Ellen Tauscher, D-Calif., a member of the House Armed Services Committee, had been talking since the November presidential elections about working to fulfill President Barack Obama�s goal of lifting the military�s ban on open service by gays and repealing the so-called �don�t ask, don�t tell� policy that allows military service by gays and lesbians under narrow restrictions.

Tauscher introduced her policy bill March 3 and has collected 134 cosponsors. That is a sizeable number in such a short time, but it falls well short of the 218 votes needed to get a bill approved by the House.

The bill, called the Military Readiness Enhancement Act, would prohibit the Defense Department and Coast Guard from discriminating against any potential recruit or a current member on the basis of sexual orientation. It also would allow anyone separated for homosexuality, bisexuality or homosexual conduct to rejoin the military.

In a letter to constituents, Tauscher said she has been offered and accepted the opportunity to serve at the State Department as undersecretary for arms control and international security.

�Keeping nuclear weapons out of the hands of terrorists, making sure other countries do not obtain them and, one day, I hope, ridding the world of these terrible weapons, has become my passion and, I hope, my life�s work.�

She made the announcement before being formally nominated by President Obama. In her letter, she acknowledges the State Department job is no sure thing. �The confirmation process for senior posts in government in fraught with uncertainty and can take weeks, if not months,� she said.

If she leaves Congress, this would be the second time that the lawmaker positioned to lead the fight to change the military�s ban on service by gays departed to take another job.

Before Tauscher, Rep. Martin Meehan, D-Mass., had been a long-time sponsor of legislation to allow gays to openly serve in the military. Meehan resigned his seat in the House of Representatives in July 2007 to become chancellor of the University of Massachusetts at Lowell.

If Tauscher leaves, others could become the chief sponsor and advocate for attempting to change the military�s policy. One supporter of the legislation is Rep. Susan Davis, D-Calif., the chairwoman of the House Armed Services subcommittee on military personnel, which has primary jurisdiction over personnel policy issues.

Another shower electrocution death investigated

By Kimberly Hefling - The Associated Press
Posted : Tuesday Feb 3, 2009 12:36:23 EST
   
WASHINGTON � A third U.S. service member has been determined to have been electrocuted in a shower in Iraq, and Navy criminal investigators are investigating, The Associated Press has learned.

Navy Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class David A. Cedergren, 25, of South St. Paul, Minn., died Sept. 11, 2004, while showering. His family was told he died of natural causes.

Late last year, the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology changed the manner of Cedergren�s death to �accidental,� caused by electrocution and inflammation of the heart. The Naval Criminal Investigative Service has reopened an investigation into his death, Ed Buice, a NCIS spokesman, said Monday.

Cedergren�s death is among 18 electrocution deaths � 16 U.S. service members and two military contractors � under review as part of a Department of Defense Inspector General inquiry. Improperly installed or maintained electrical devices have been blamed in some of the deaths, while accidental contact with power lines caused others.

The inquiry primarily involves electrical work done at a facility where a Green Beret, Staff Sgt. Ryan Maseth, 24, of Pittsburgh, was electrocuted while showering in January 2008.

Cedergren � a medic � was found in an outdoor shower stall in Camp Iskandariyah, Iraq, not breathing and without a pulse.

His brother, Barry Cedergren, said his family initially suspected he�d been shocked because, according to reports shown to the family, witnesses told investigators that some service members had reported being shocked in the shower.

He said military investigators took a second look at the case after a request from former Sen. Norm Coleman, R.-Minn.

�We�re looking further into what our options are,� said Barry Cedergren, of Ramsey, Minn.

Maseth�s death was initially considered accidental, but is now classified by Army investigators as �negligent homicide� caused by Houston-based contractor KBR Inc. and two of its supervisors. An Army investigator said the contractor failed to ensure that �qualified electricians and plumbers� did the work. The case is under legal review.

Last year, Maseth�s family sued KBR in Allegheny County, Pa., alleging wrongful death. The case was moved to federal court in western Pennsylvania, where it is pending.

NCIS spokesman Buice said he could not comment on evidentiary issues such as who was maintaining the shower where David Cedergren died.

Another service member electrocuted in Iraq while showering in a U.S.-maintained facility was identified in a congressional report as Army Cpl. Marcos Nolasco, 34, of Chino, Calif. Investigators concluded he was electrocuted when an ungrounded water heater shorted, the report said.

RELATED READING:
� House wants details on electrocutions in Iraq

� Contractor under fire for Iraq electrocutions

� 13 electrocutions, few answers

� July 29 hearing focused on Iraq electrocutions

� DoD IG backs off Iraq electrocutions report

Ft. Stewart: Post access procedures change today

License will get temporary permit

By Joe Parker Jr.
Correspondent
jparkerjr@coastalcourier.com
912-876-0156 ext. 25
Posted: Nov. 7, 2007  11:31 a.m.
Updated: Nov. 7, 2007 11:31 a.m.

A terrorist trying to infiltrate Fort Stewart might balk at the confusion � and he might not be the only one.
Starting today, temporary passes will be issued to vehicles that don�t have DoD decals. Drivers and passengers will be required to show identification, just like they were before this latest change.
A newspaper in a nearby town reported incorrectly that Fort Stewart gate guards would be checking for vehicle registration and proof of insurance. These documents are required by state law, but are not now checked by Fort Stewart.
Since access control started in 2001, the process has been through several changes. 
Originally, drivers showed their licenses, registration and proof of insurance to gate guards in order to receive a one-day pass for their destination. Then the process was moved into a building at Gate One and drivers parked and carried their documents into the building to get passes.
More recently, drivers and passengers simply showed their identification at the gate and, if they were not on the list of persons barred from the post, were allowed to drive onto Fort Stewart. 
A Fort Stewart statement says issuing temporary vehicle passes to all private vehicles without a DoD decal increases the security of the installation.
The safety and security of the soldiers, families, and civilian employees on the installation is a priority of Fort Stewart-Hunter Army Airfield, especially during the 3rd Infantry Division�s current deployment.

Temporary passes
Temporary passes will only be issued at three gates: 
� Fort Stewart Gate 1 (General Stewart Way and General Screven Way), 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
� Fort Stewart Gate 3 (Harmon Avenue and Old Sunbury Road), 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
� Fort Stewart Gate 5 (GA Highway 119 and 144), 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Gate guards will ask the purpose of the visit, destination and other information. In most cases, a temporary vehicle pass valid for that day will be issued. 
In some cases, Fort Stewart says, individuals not affiliated with the installation who are traveling in a vehicle without a DoD decal or temporary pass will be denied access. 
Reasons include not have a valid reason to be on the installation or not having a destination on the installation.
Temporary vehicle passes will be honored for re-entry of the installation as long as they have not expired. Access control personnel will advise drivers on how to get a temporary pass valid for more than one day if needed.
This procedural change does not impact current commercial vehicle access at Fort Stewart or Hunter Army Airfield. Commercial vehicles are still required to use Gate 7 at Fort Stewart, and Montgomery Gate at Hunter Army Airfield.

Savannah
In Savannah, passes are issued at two Hunter locations:
� Wilson Gate (White Bluff Road), 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
� Montgomery Gate (Montgomery Street); daily from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Access control procedure questions can be sent to the Directorate of Emergency Services at des.feedback@stewart.army.mil

DoD Announces Force Adjustments 
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

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NEWS RELEASES from the United States Department of Defense

No. 547-07 IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 08, 2007
Media Contact: (703) 697-5131/697-5132
Public/Industry(703) 428-0711

DoD Announces Force Adjustments

The Department of Defense announced today additional major units 
scheduled to deploy in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.The 
announcement involves 10 brigade combat teams consisting of approximately 
35,000 personnel.

These units will deploy as replacement forces for formations 
currently operating in Iraq.The deployment window for these units will begin 
in August 2007 and continue through the end of the year.

These deployments will provide commanders in Iraq the flexibility to 
maintain the appropriate level of effort based on their assessment of 
the security situation on the ground.

Specific units receiving deployment orders include:

3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Hood, Texas.

1st Brigade, 101st Airborne Division, Fort Campbell, Ky.

3rd Brigade, 101st Airborne Division, Fort Campbell, Ky.

2nd Brigade, 101st Airborne Division, Fort Campbell, Ky.

4th Brigade, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Polk, La.

1st Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.

4th Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

2nd Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii

2nd Cavalry Regiment (Stryker), Vilseck, Germany.

2nd Brigade, 1st Armored Division, Baumholder, Germany.

These deployments reflect the continued commitment of the United 
States to the security of the Iraqi people.The Department recognizes the 
continued sacrifices of these units and their family members.

DoD will continue to announce major unit deployments as units are 
identified and given deployment orders.For information on the units 
announced today or other units involved in this rotation, please contact 
Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

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Bell Helicopter Armed Forces Bowl Pays Tribute to Servicemembers 
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL 
    By Annette Crawford
Special to American Forces Press Service

FORT WORTH, Texas, Dec. 24, 2006 - The game may have been all about 
football, but the overall event was a tribute to 1.2 million very 
special people - the men and women of the United States armed forces.

The Universities of Utah and Tulsa took to the field last night at 
Amon G. Carter Stadium for the Bell Helicopter Armed Forces Bowl. Utah 
won its sixth straight post-season bowl appearance, 25-13.

The flurry of activities before the game started off with a Fan Fest 
Adventure Area. Attendees could visit any number of military hardware 
displays, climb a rock wall, listen to a military band or take a ride 
in a simulator. There was also a display of an Army and Air Force 
Exchange Service mini-exchange, similar to the ones supporting deployed 
members overseas.

Near the center of the midway, one booth in particular held special 
meaning for servicemembers. The organization was Connect and Join, and 
founder and president Linda Dennis was more than happy to share her 
story. She paged through a scrapbook, one of several she and 
volunteers have made from thousands of pages that have found their way to her 
office in Columbia, S.C.

The pages are letters and drawings from children and adults all over 
the nation. They are done in pen, crayon, pencil and some, even in 
Braille. No matter the medium, they all bring words of encouragement to 
servicemembers deployed overseas.

"It all started as a way to connect with the troops," said Dennis, 
who has found the project to be an emotional experience. She received 
some pages from a 5-year-old boy in Iowa that were particularly 
moving.

"It's been very rewarding. I don't think I've ever cried so much," 
she said of the pages that were done in Braille by Sawyer Deevers. The 
boy and his mother, Sonni, were part of a presentation during the 
fourth quarter of the game; Dennis presented a scrapbook to Air Force 
Maj. Gen. Allen R. Dehnert, assistant adjutant general and commander, 
Texas Air National Guard, who would send it to deployed 
servicemembers.

Opening ceremonies for the game featured six parachutists - five 
carried the flags of the armed forces and one brought in the American 
flag. Fireworks and a flyover by Navy jets started off the festivities 
in grand style.

The honors of the opening coin toss were deferred by the chief 
executive officer of Bell Helicopter, Michael Redenbaugh. He passed the 
honors on to Deputy Secretary of Defense Gordon England, who is a Fort 
Worth resident.

Representatives from all the armed forces were at the 50-yard line 
for the coin toss ceremony. Dehnert represented the Air Force. From the 
Marines it was Brig. Gen. Richard Tryon, commander general of the 
Marine Corps Recruiting Command. Commander Kevin Hannes, commander of 
the U.S. Navy Recruiting District, Dallas-Fort Worth, represented his 
service, while Capt. Bill Diehl, captain of the port of Houston and 
commander of the Coast Guard Sector Houston-Galveston, represented the 
Coast Guard.

Pfc. Dennis Bowsher, the 2005 national pentathlete champion and 
member of the Army World Class Athlete Program, represented the Army. He 
is a potential 2008 Olympic participant and native of the Dallas-Fort 
Worth area.

Also on hand was former Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Drew Pearson, a 
University of Tulsa graduate.

"It feels great (to be here)," Pearson said. "The armed forces are 
involved in it, and anything we can do to support what they do for us 
is important."

The Cowboy legend had a message for servicemembers deployed overseas.

"You've got to keep hanging in there, and just know that the people 
here, even though we're at bowl games and enjoying our holidays with 
our families, we still think about you and what you are doing over 
there for our country and for us," he said. "We know we would not have 
the freedom we have if it wasn't for you."

At halftime, in addition to the universities' marching bands, there 
were also several military-themed events. The highlight of the evening 
was the presentation of the first Great American Patriot Award to 
England.

"There should really be 1.2 million Patriot awards," England said. 
"Patriot awards should be for all our magnificent men and women who 
serve our nation, so I accept this award on behalf of all of them 
because they are the true patriots who protect and defend this country 
every day."

The Bell Helicopter Armed Forces Bowl is one of several events 
featuring America Supports you, a Department of Defense program that 
showcases and facilitates American support for members of the armed forces.

(Annette Crawford is assigned to Air Force Print News.) 
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Surviving Boot Camp

Boot Camp is made for you to succeed, not to fail. You'll never be asked to do something you can't handle. Here are 10 tips to getting the most out of boot camp:

1. Run, run, run. The better shape you are in the easier boot camp will be. Be in shape before you get there.

2. Bring your game face. Get up for it. It can be the greatest time of your life. Don't show emotion; it's part of the game. Don't be a wimp.

3. Check your attitude. Drill sergeants and instructors want you to learn because it may save your life some day. Fighting the game wastes energy.

4. Look out for your buddy. Nothing impresses people more than quietly taking care of the person next to you. Remember boot camp is a team sport.

5. It's only temporary. Basic training doesn't last forever. There's a goal and a future. You'll have down time and do things that are really fun. Your military career won't be like boot camp.

6. Know your rights. Have your recruiter write and sign any promises they make. If you're really hurt or sick, go to sick call. Take care of your feet. Lock your gear.

7. Study early. Know the phonetic alphabet and other military knowledge before you go. For the Army, know the Initial Entry Training book and the Army general orders. 
Stew Smith Bootcamp Workouts 
The Ultimate Basic Training Guidebook 
Get an Airman's Guide 
Get a Coast Guardsman's Manual 
Get a Guidebook for Marines 
Get a Guide to Soldiers Basic Knowledge 
Get a Sailor's Guide (The Bluejacket's Manual)

8. Run with the pack. Don't draw attention to yourself. This is not the time to satisfy your need for attention.

Need to get physically prepped?

Check out Stew Smith's downloadable fitness eBooks, specifically designed to help you prepare for bootcamp and get you into the best shape of your life. 
9. It ain't personal. Nothing said in basic training is personal. The high-stress environment is part of the game. The winner knows this in advance.

10. Don't be a loner. Make friends because you are in it together. Keep in touch with family and friends at home too. Don't let others in your unit be loners.

Bonus Tip. Go to Church. Even if you are an atheist, church is a good time to reflect on yourself, escape the pressure and regroup for the day or week ahead.

Honey's Dark Side: It's Good

Choose your honey like you choose your chocolate: Go dark.

Dark honey, like dark chocolate, can be a better source of health-protecting antioxidants than lighter-color counterparts. Here's why dark honey is different. (see below ?)

The Buzz on Honeydew

In a study of Spanish honey varieties, researchers looked at three honey groups: floral (the lightest shade of honey tested -- bees make it from the nectar of blossoms); honeydew (the darkest tested -- bees make it from sugary substances that insects leave on trees and plants); and blends (in-between shades of honey made from a combo of floral and honeydew). The dark honey showed the greatest potential for helping to protect cells from harmful substances (free radicals) that cause aging and disease.  Here's another RealAge tip on honey's special health properties.

Honey Bee Good

About to sweeten your tea with honey? What kind? It matters.

Until recently, if you asked a nutritionist about the pros and cons of, say, lightly processed "raw" sugar versus honey, table sugar, brown sugar, molasses, fructose, or maple syrup, you'd hear this exasperated chant: "Sugar is sugar is sugar." No longer. Several studies have found that buckwheat honey -- dark, rich, and malty -- has an unusual number of age-fighting antioxidants in addition to serious sweetening power.

Okay, we know you probably don't have a yellow-capped squeezy bear of buckwheat honey in your pantry. But the next time you're in a natural-foods grocery or speciality market, pick up a jar. Although several types of honey have some antioxidant effects, researchers have pronounced buckwheat honey far and away the star. And buckwheat itself (think pancake mixes, Japanese soba noodles) is being investigated as a "functional food," thanks both to its high levels of protein, fiber, and minerals, and its lab-tested ability to reduce body fat and cholesterol and even prevent gallstones. So the next time you're making yourself a cuppa, try sweetening it with something that's got a lot more going for it than sugar's empty calories. 
RealAge Benefit: Getting the right amount of antioxidants through diet or supplements can make your RealAge 6 years younger.

Researchers suspect the protection comes from the antioxidant-powered phenols and amino acids found in the sticky stuff.

Did You Know? Honey also has antibacterial abilities. 
RealAge Benefit: Getting the right amount of antioxidants through diet or supplements can make your RealAge 6 years younger.

RealAge Smart Search: Learn more about the health benefits of antioxidants with RealAge Smart Search. 
Originally published on 05/7/2007.

RALs Removed on Free File; 93 Million Eligible for Program

http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=164711,00.html

RALs Removed on Free File; 93 Million Eligible for Program

IR-2006-187, Dec. 5, 2006

WASHINGTON - The successful and innovative Free File program launches
its fifth year in January with an agreement by private sector 
partners
to remove ancillary offerings such as Refund Anticipation Loans 
(RALs)
from the program.

Free File is a partnership between the Internal Revenue Service and 
the
Free File Alliance, a coalition of tax preparation software
manufacturers who make their software products available to eligible
taxpayers for free and provide free Federal return electronic filing.
The Free File software products are the same as their commercial
products.

For 2007, taxpayers who earn $52,000 or less will be able to find a 
Free
File offer for which they are eligible. This means 70 percent of all
taxpayers - 93 million people - will be eligible for Free File.

"We heard many legitimate concerns about the marketing of ancillary
products during the last filing season," said IRS Commissioner Mark 
W.
Everson. "This is a constructive step."

Free File Alliance Executive Director Tim Hugo said: "Each year, the
Free File Alliance has sought to improve a program that is now 
eligible
to over 93 million Americans. Today, with the voluntary elimination 
of
RAL's and ancillary products, the Free File Alliance takes another 
giant
leap forward on behalf of the taxpaying public."

More than 15.4 million tax returns have been prepared and submitted
through Free File since it debuted during the 2003 filing season.
Preparation and e-filing of federal tax returns have been free since 
the
inception of Free File. However, manufacturers have offered refund
anticipation loans and other products for which they charge a fee. 
RALs
use a taxpayer's refund as collateral for a same-day, 
interest-charging
loan.

Taxpayers must enter Free File through the IRS Web site. The Free 
File
Alliance may still offer customers the option of having their state 
tax
return prepared for a fee. Some Alliance members are offering the 
state
return for free as well.

Some alliance members also will provide free access to Form 1040EZ-T 
for
those people who have no legal obligation to file a tax return but 
who
can request the one-time telephone excise tax refund. In addition,
taxpayers can use Free File to file a Form 4868, Application for
Automatic Extension of Time to File. Some alliance members offer 
their
Free File software in Spanish.

The latest agreement to remove ancillary product offers improves on 
an
already solid foundation for the Free File program. Earlier this 
year,
taxpayers responding to a survey reported an overwhelming level of
satisfaction with the program.

According to the survey, 94 percent said they intend to use Free File
again next year, 94 percent said they found Free File very easy or
somewhat easy to use and 97 percent said they would recommend Free 
File
to others. Convenience, not the free cost, was the most appealing 
factor
of Free File.

Only 6 percent of the Free File users purchased an ancillary product
from a software provider, but half of those said that their purchase 
was
not intended. Also, IRS' own data reveals that only 0.5 percent of 
the
Free File users requested a refund anticipation loan (RAL).

Russell Research, a market research firm contracted by the IRS,
conducted a telephone survey of 1,800 taxpayers who used Free File
during 2006. The poll was conducted during May and June of this year.
The typical Free File user was a 40-year-old woman (57 percent 
female/43
percent male) who prepared both federal and state tax returns with 
Free
File and had used Free File the previous tax year.

"This survey confirms what we've known anecdotally for four years:
taxpayers like Free File. This level of public satisfaction with Free
File is just astounding," Everson said. "This innovative program
combines the best of the private and public sectors to provide real
value to the taxpayers. With this latest agreement, we've made a 
great program even better."

USO Honors Servicemembers for Heroism 
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL 
    By Sgt. Sara Wood, USA
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Sept. 29, 2006 - The United Service Organizations 
celebrated its 65th anniversary last night and honored troops from each 
branch of the military for heroism.

"We are thankful that we are defended by men and women of character 
and courage, and we are grateful to all the USO volunteers to work to 
entertain them," President Bush said in a video message to the 65th 
annual USO gala here. "They lift their spirits and express the 
gratitude and support of the American people."
The five troops who received USO Servicemember of the Year awards at 
the gala represent the highest ideals of courage and patriotism, and 
have demonstrated extraordinary loyalty, bravery and heroism, Bush 
said.

Honored were:

Army Sgt. Leigh Ann Hester, of the Kentucky National Guard. 
Hester served as a team leader with the 617th Military Police Company at 
Camp Liberty, Iraq. On March 20, 2005, Hester was in one of three 
escort vehicles providing security for a convoy when the convoy was 
ambushed by insurgents. Despite being outnumbered five to one and coming 
under heavy fire, Hester led her soldiers on a counterattack, 
maneuvering her team into a flanking position and clearing trenches occupied 
by the insurgents. Hester is the first woman since World War II to 
receive the Silver Star for combat action.

Marine Cpl. Robert L. Snyder, of 2nd Battalion, 1st Marine 
Regiment, Camp Pendleton, Calif. Snyder was a fire team leader in Operation 
Iraqi Freedom. During a sweep of a compound in western Anbar 
province, Snyder's platoon encountered heavy machine gun fire. Learning that 
his squad leader was wounded, Snyder took charge, pulled one Marine 
to safety and ordered the squad to remove the remaining injured 
Marines. Snyder then used his own suppressive fire to rescue a Marine 
trapped inside the compound. Snyder was awarded the Bronze Star with Valor 
Device for his actions.

Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Nathaniel R. Leoncio, of 3rd 
Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Camp Pendleton, Calif. As a hospital 
corpsman deployed to Iraq, Leoncio was in a patrol stuck by an improvised 
explosive device. The IED caused his Humvee to overturn, traumatically 
amputating his lower right leg and causing other serious fractures 
and internal injuries. Despite his injuries, Leoncio began giving 
instructions on how to care for himself and the other injured Marines and 
personally rendered life-saving medical care to other Marines, 
including his platoon commander. Leoncio was awarded the Bronze Star with 
Combat Distinguishing Device for his valor.

Air Force Staff Sgt. Joseph J. Upton, of the 775th Civil Engineer 
Squadron, Hill Air Force Base, Utah. Upton was a member of a team 
that identified and disabled IEDs in Iraq, helping to secure areas for 
coalition and Iraqi army forces. During an operation to secure a main 
supply route, an IED detonated, rupturing Upton's eardrums and giving 
him a concussion. Despite his injuries, Upton rushed to the aid of 
his teammate, who had suffered a traumatic limb amputation. Upton 
improvised a tourniquet and began treating the other injuries. On the 
deployment, Upton led more than 50 missions to identify and disable IEDs, 
and led the destruction of more than 4,000 pieces of ordnance.

Coast Guard Petty Officer 3rd Class Mitchell A. Latta. Latta was 
an aviation survival technician involved in day and night rescue 
operations during Hurricane Katrina. While in a helicopter battling 
40-knot winds, Latta dropped to a rooftop where 10 survivors were gathered 
inches above rising flood waters. One was an amputee suffering from 
diabetic shock. Latta rescued a stroke victim trapped in her attic and 
submerged himself in toxic flood waters to save a woman whose legs 
were tangled in a garden hose. Over the five days of rescue operations, 
Latta saved the lives of 181 people.

Leoncio, the Navy corpsman who is now a single-leg amputee, said he 
is honored to receive this award, but he knows many other corpsmen and 
Marines who have done just as much as he did, or more. He said he 
doesn't remember many of the events of the day he was injured and has to 
rely on other people to tell him what happened, but he's glad he was 
able to do his job and save the lives of the Marines that he said are 
like a family to him.

"We'd do anything for each other; I'd do anything for any of my 
Marines, and they'd do the same for me," he said. "I love my Marines; they 
saved my life."

Leoncio lost friends in the war on terror, but he said he tries to 
maintain a good attitude and go on with life -- including running in 
the upcoming Army 10-miler -- to honor their lives and to show 
gratitude for the chances he's been given.

"You live life for those that didn't make it, and that's it," he 
said. "You can't be sad because, one, I'm not that bad off; there are a 
lot of other people worse off than me. And, I've had some friends who 
didn't make it home. Don't get me wrong, I have my sad days and there 
are certain times when certain things will remind me of my friends 
and I get sad and I get depressed, but then you snap out of it. You 
just have to."

Hester echoed Leoncio's sentiments of humility about receiving the 
USO award. Her fellow soldiers are her brothers and sisters, she said, 
and they serve honorably every day. "I served close to a year over 
there with them, and they deserve to be standing up here with me," she 
said. "They fought just as hard as I did so, in my eyes, they should 
be here too."

Hester said that her actions that day in Iraq were largely 
instinctive, drawing on her training as a soldier. "You really don't have time 
to think about what you should and shouldn't do," she said. "To make 
no decision is the wrong decision, and that's the only wrong decision 
you can make. I just reacted; it was pretty instinctive."

Snyder, the Marine, said that he was just doing his job while 
clearing the compound in Iraq. He never expected to be nominated for an 
award, he said, and he is just glad he was able to be there for his 
fellow Marines when they needed him.Snyder comes from a family of Marines 
and said that when he joined, he knew he had found his niche in life 
-- a niche he is eager to get back to.

"They're out there doing their job in the field right now, training 
hard. I've just got to get out of here quick enough to go back with 
them," he said.

At the gala, Marine Gen. Peter Pace, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of 
Staff, said that the stories of the five servicemember honorees and 
other troops like them bring tears to his eyes and make his job a 
privilege. Tomorrow is the one-year anniversary of Pace's assumption of 
the chairman position, and he said he is proud of the past year and 
ready for the future.

"I have no idea what this next year has in store, but I do know this: 
there are 2.4 million young men and women -- active, Guard and 
Reserve -- just like the five young men and women who are standing before 
you tonight, who have pledged their lives if necessary to defend this 
country," he said. "And therefore, it is not a burden for me to go do 
my job. It's an honor; I'm fired up, and I'm proud to serve alongside 
them."

Pace also thanked the volunteers and celebrities who work with the 
USO, bringing a piece of home to U.S. troops serving overseas. "You 
have no idea how you touch our hearts and how just hearing your voice or 
seeing your smile or knowing that you too are in 120 degree heat -- 
what a huge difference that makes to everybody serving overseas," he 
said.

[Web Version: 
http://www.defenselink.mil/News/NewsArticle.aspx?ID=1334]

====================================================

Here's a poem for Army Children. I was considered one once (My father is retired from the Army.) and can identify with them, hence it being shown on this page. It will also be featured on "For and About the Children" (geocities.com/ravet2005/children.html).

I am an Army Child.

My hometown is nowhere. My friends are everywhere. 
I grew up with the knowledge that home is where the heart is 
and the family� with no dependence on the dwelling.

Mobility is my way of life. Some would wonder about roots, 
yet they are as deep and strong as the mighty oak�I sink them 
quickly. Absorbing all an area offers and hopefully, giving 
enrichment in return.

Travel has taught me to be open. Shaking hands with 
the universe. I find brotherhood in all men.

Farewells are never easy. Yet, in even sorrow comes strength 
and the ability to face tomorrow with anticipation�and if when 
I leave one place, I feel that half my world is left behind. I also 
know that the other half is still waiting to be met.

Friendships are formed in hours and kept for decades. I will 
never grow up with someone, but I will mature with many. Be it 
inevitable that paths part, there is the constant hope that they will 
meet again.

Love of Country, Respect and Pride fill my being when Old Glory 
passes in review. As I stand to honor the Flag, so also do I stand 
in honor of all Soldiers, and, most especially, to the parents 
whose life created mine.

Because of this, I have shared in the rich heritage of Army Life.

ANONYMOUS

How Creativity Keeps Us Ageless

Four tips to unleash your creative energies and counter the effects of aging in the process. 
By Stephen Ruppenthal  
Have you ever thought that giving yourself the time to do that sketch or write that short story might help you stay younger? Studies have shown there is indeed a vital relationship between creative expression and healthy aging. When we draw and paint, we delve deep into the springs of vitality, increasing our sense of self-worth, determination, and achievement. But the University of Kentucky�s Prof. David Snowdon, who tracked the health of 678 Catholic nuns over 70 in his important Alzheimer�s study, showed us much more: he was once given a ceramic sculpture by one of the nuns, Sister Esther Boor, who had taken up ceramics at age 97. When asked by Snowdon to join his project, Sister Esther had originally told him, �I�m too busy with my art to take part in a study of old people." She was not aware of growing older, and she passed away at 107.

All of us know that, when deep in the process creating a short story, a painting, a new business, or an invention, time seems to stand still. Creating something totally new freshens our whole system and frees us from limitations that otherwise can hold us down and drain us of life. Here are four ways you can counter the effects of aging by unleashing your creative energies, testing your own powers of making new things, and breaking through to new solutions:

The Dalai Lama on how we can live a more spiritual life
1. Just start, don�t think. If you feel too emotionally drained or just plain blocked, get a pad of paper and pour out all the nagging resentments, fears, and worries that block you from starting an important project. Acknowledging feelings can enable us to move past them and really get started. This, of course, also means dedicating ample time and space for the creative work. A friend of mine had trouble realizing his gifts until he freed enough time to tinker in his garage. Now he exhibits dozens of motor scooters, cars, and even a bread truck, all artistically converted to brightly painted electric-powered vehicles. I ask him how old he is and he says it�s tough to keep track.

2. Try making your own environment a work of art. And while you�re at it, have some fun! We all start with a blank slate in our living space. Whether you reorganize your office, redecorate your home, enrich your relationships, or beautify your yard, let these efforts mirror the best and most beautiful in you. My wife and I purchased five very barren acres some years back and have since spent every spare minute we have planting flowering herbs, luscious berries, stately fruit trees, and hardy landscaping bushes. In comparatively little time, the parched landscape has given way to lush green views in all directions. And inside, a neglected, ramshackle farmhouse now boasts rich French country colors on all its walls. Don�t be afraid to test your creativity in playful ways, even if you muff it and have to start over. The playful energy all of us have not far beneath the surface helps us feel young and free, regardless of our body�s age.

3. Follow your highest hopes and dreams. Strangely enough, researchers who investigate longevity are finding old age can be a peak period for more, not less, creativity. "We always think of winding down in old age," says Judith Salerno, Britain�s deputy director for the National Institute on Aging. "We need to begin thinking about late life as an opportunity for people to explore." So in the years that used to be considered old age and dotage, now we see experience as an incalculably rich resource. Don�t settle for a shut-down life where the resources of youth are just vain memories; tap your rich experience, whether through art, invention, social service, or transformation of the environment. A higher number of age will only mean you can realize your highest potential and develop talents you never knew you possessed.

4. Dedicate time each day to creative projects, and have faith in yourself. Whether your gift is to be a writer, painter, actor, or a healer of personal relationships, you need to devote time to it every day. �But I can�t do it,� people say, �it�s too big!� So just try breaking your larger projects into smaller, more manageable pieces. As St. Francis says, �Small beginnings, greater ends.� Don�t try to write the whole novel or you will clam up and get scared. Maybe today you will just write one paragraph or carve one lock of hair onto your sculpture, but that will unlock your greater resources. Over time, something will just lift you up. A power coming from deep within you will fill in the blanks, making the universe�and yourself�richer, more beautiful, and full of the wealth of creative life that has no age.

Stop-loss payouts start as program ends

By Michelle Tan - Staff writer
Posted : Friday Mar 20, 2009 17:18:00 EDT
   
Soldiers under stop-loss orders will begin receiving a $500 monthly allowance on April 1, Army officials said Wednesday.

The announcement followed a briefing at the Pentagon where Defense Secretary Robert Gates said he has approved a plan to eliminate stop-loss by March 2011 and pay $500 a month to soldiers under those orders.

The $500 monthly payments will be retroactive to Oct. 1, 2008. Eligible soldiers who are no longer under stop-loss orders will get their money in a lump sum, and that money will be paid in May and June, at the latest, said Lt. Gen. Michael Rochelle, the Army G-1.

Each monthly payment is tax-free if soldiers are in the war zone and taxable if they are in the U.S., said Col. Larry Lock, the division chief for compensation and entitlements. The same rules apply to soldiers who receive a lump-sum amount, he said.

On average, soldiers are under stop-loss orders for five to eight months, said Maj. Gen. Gina Farrisee, director of military personnel management.

The plan to eliminate stop-loss calls for the Army Reserve to begin mobilizing units without stop-loss in August, with the Army National Guard to follow in September. Gates said the active Army will begin deploying units without stop-loss in January 2010.

The goal is to cut stop-loss by 50 percent by June 2010 and eliminate the practice by March 2011, Gates said.

About 13,200 soldiers are now under stop-loss orders, which involuntarily extends soldiers beyond the end of their enlistments or retirement dates in units deploying to combat.

About 7,300 of the stop-lossed soldiers are in the active Army, 4,458 in the Guard and 1,452 in the Reserve. Most of them are E-4s and E-5s, and the majority of soldiers under stop-loss orders are in combat arms, followed by those in logistics specialties, Farrisee said.

The Army will still be able to use stop-loss in case of an emergency, Gates said, but predicted it would be for small numbers of individuals with specific skills.

�I just felt there will probably always be a need to do this with a relatively small number of people with specific skills, but I�d like to get it down to scores rather than thousands,� he said.

The five-brigade surge into Iraq, beginning in January 2007, caused the number of soldiers under stop-loss orders to surge as well, Gates said.

�My question is the surge is over, why isn�t [stop-loss] going down?� he said. �We have the � authority to do it, but I would just tell you I felt, particularly in these numbers, that it was breaking faith.�

A combination of factors is allowing the Army to work toward eliminating stop-loss, including the anticipated reduction of troops in Iraq and the Army�s achievement of its targeted end-strength of 547,400, Rochelle said.

�We would be off stop-loss tomorrow were it not for the demand for Army forces worldwide,� he said.

The monthly payments will be funded by the $72 million provided to the Army by Congress for fiscal 2009, Rochelle said, adding that he has received assurances that additional funding will follow if needed.

The Army also is hammering out new incentives to encourage soldiers in deploying units to stay in the Army, Farrisee said. She did not have details Wednesday, but said there will be monetary incentives and also an option for soldiers to extend for just the length of their upcoming deployment.

When asked why it took so long for the Army to come up with this plan, Rochelle said that it was a complex problem, and second- and third-order effects on readiness, soldiers and families that would result from any policy had to be identified and examined.

�We know that this has been a hardship,� he said about stop-loss. �Unfortunately it was a necessary hardship. Now we have a window of opportunity � to take that burden off the backs of our soldiers and their families.�

Welcome to the Family News--the monthly listserve from ACS and MyArmyLifeToo.com, the Army's most comprehensive portal for family members.

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IN THIS MONTH'S ISSUE:

v       NMFA Selects Eight Army Winners of Prestigious VIP Awards

v       Are You Prepared for the Next Disaster?

v       Army Emergency Relief Offers Scholarships

v       GI Bill Payment Rates Increased

v       Facts on the GI Bill Top-Up Program

v       Make A Difference Day-28 October

v       Army Information Line

v       Breakthrough Vaccine for Women

v       Freedom Team Salute Honors Service

v       Insurance Assists Severely Injured

v       American Legion Establishes Hometown Heroes Program

v       Army Reserve and VFW Team to Enhance Troop-Support Programs

v       New Army Safety Campaign:  "Own the Edge"

v       Military OneSource Use Exceeds Expectations

v       Uniformed Services Family Health Plan

v       TRICARE Program Assists Injured Soldiers

v       TRICARE Allowable Charges Available Online

v       Health Information Privacy Rights

v       More Funding for Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center

v       Teaching Future Soldiers

v       Army Soldier Show Accepting Applications

v       Congress Addressing Payday Loan Sharks

v       Helpful Personal Finance Websites

v       Protect Yourself from Identity Theft

v       Helping Wounded Troops Return to Work

v       "Why We Serve" Campaign Visits Local Communities

v       New USO Center Open at Fort Bliss

v       Retreats For Couples Affected by Deployments

v       Students Asked to Count Stars

v       Calling DFAS Will Be Easier

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NMFA Selects Eight Army Winners of Prestigious VIP Awards

The National Military Family Association recently announced the winners of its 15 Very Important Patriot (VIP) Awards for 2006.  The VIP Award Program recognizes exceptional volunteers worldwide whose outstanding service contributes to improving the quality of life in their military and/or civilian communities.  There are three award categories and prize levels:  Very Important Patriot ($1000), Very Important Patriot Award of Honor ($500), and Very Important Patriot Award of Merit ($250).  Among the five winners of the VIP level Award is Mrs. Renee Stotz, an Army spouse who was nominated from FT Lewis, WA, but now resides in Hohenfels , Germany .  Four Army nominees are among the five winners of the VIP Award of Merit:  SSG Brent Cobb of the South Carolina Army National Guard; Mrs. Sharon Davenport, Army spouse from Wiesbaden , Germany ; MAJ Doug Dillon, U.S. Army Reserve, Virginia; and Mrs. Patti Walker, Army spouse from FT Riley, KS.  The three Army winners of the VIP Award of Merit are:  SPC Chelsey Beck, a Soldier stationed in Camp Eagle , Korea ; Sendry Pittman, Army family member from FT Eustis, VA; and Mrs. Felicia Villarreal, Army spouse from FT Hood, TX.  Congratulations to our Army winners and to all the others who were chosen for Very Important Patriot Awards!  You are an example to all!  For more information on the VIP Program, and to learn about the National Military Family Association, please visit:  http://www.nmfa.org/.

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Are You Prepared for the Next Disaster?

During hurricane season and throughout the rest of the year, preparing for severe weather emergencies could be essential to survival.  The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the American Red Cross (ARC) provide an online preparedness guide "Preparing for Disaster" at:  http://www.redcross.org/images/pdfs/preparedness/A4600.pdf.  More information on how your family can prepare against many types of hazards is available in a 200-page FEMA guide "Are You Ready?" at:  http://www.fema.gov/pdf/areyouready/areyouready_full.pdf.  Other websites which have information on severe weather and disaster preparedness are:  http://www.redcross.org, http://www.firstgov.gov/Topics/weather.shtml, and http://www.weather.com/safeside/?from=tabset&ref=?/glossary/.

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Army Emergency Relief Offers Scholarships

Army Emergency Relief (AER) offers financial aid for full-time college study for dependent children of retired Soldiers.  Scholarships are awarded based on financial need and on academic achievements and individual accomplishments.  The only way to ensure your child will be considered is to mail the application and all requested documents by 1 March 2007.  Applications for the 2007-2008 academic year scholarships will be available at the Army Emergency Relief Website at http://www.aerhq.org from 1 November 2006 through 1 March 2007.  Mailed applications and/or supporting documentation must be postmarked no later than 1 March 2007.

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GI Bill Payment Rates Increased

The Department of Veterans Affairs has announced that the GI Bill will soon be worth $38,700 - a total increase of nearly $1,500 over last year's rate. This amount is based on the new monthly full-time student payment rate of $1,075 multiplied by the 36-month limit.  If you are GI Bill eligible, you receive the increase no matter when you became eligible or begin using it.  To search a database of 4,000 military friendly schools to help find the right school for you, visit:  http://web50.military.com/cgi-bin/outlog.cgi?url=http%3A//schools.military.com/schoolfinder/search-for-schools.do?ESRC=mrtxt.nl&code=mrtxt.nl.

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Facts on the GI Bill Top-Up Program

Top-Up is a program that allows VA to pay the remaining balance after your military tuition assistance benefit has been paid.  The amount of Top-Up is equal to the difference between the total cost of a college course and the amount of tuition assistance that is paid by the military for the course.  Top-Up payments are limited to what you would receive for the same course if you used your regular GI Bill benefits.  In no case can the amount paid by the military combined with the amount paid by VA be more than the total cost of the course.  For further details and to find out if you are eligible for the Top-Up program, and how to apply, see the Fact Sheet at:  http://web50.military.com/cgi-  bin/outlog.cgi?url=http%3A//www.military.com/Education/Content/0%2C13302%2CEN_032806-top-p%2C00.html?ESRC=mrtxt.nl&code=mrtxt.nl.

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Make a Difference Day-28 October

Make a Difference Day was created by USA WEEKEND Magazine, and is celebrated on the fourth Saturday of October each year.  The Make a Difference Day program is intended to inspire volunteers to answer a need in their community and to reward them for doing so.  For more information, visit: http://usaweekend.com/diffday/index.html or call the Make a Difference Day Hot Line, 1-800-416-3824.

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Army Information Line

The Army Information Line (toll-free) at 1-800-833-6622 provides accurate information, useful resources and helpful referral services to those with issues or concerns about Army life including, but not limited to: (1) child support; (2) deployment; (3) family readiness; (4) family readiness groups; (5) finance; (6) military installations; (7) natural disaster relief and recovery information; and (8) contingency operations information.  Experienced Constituent Liaisons staff the line and are available to assist Soldiers (Active-Duty, National Guard and Army Reserve), civilians, retirees, veterans and families.  The Army Information Line often serves as a safety net for those who have exhausted all other resources.

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Breakthrough Vaccine for Women

Women patients at Walter Reed Army Medical Center can now be vaccinated against certain subtypes of the virus that can lead to cervical cancer - a deadly cancer in women.  Walter Reed is one of the first military hospitals to begin using a Food and Drug Administration- approved "breakthrough" vaccine that can be administered to women ages 11-26 to protect them against human papilloma virus (HPV).  Studies suggest that 3 out of 4 people will get an HPV infection during their lifetime.  Vaccinating against HPV is a three step process given over a six-month period.  Women and parents of girls should discuss HPV and vaccination options with their gynecologists.

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Freedom Team Salute Honors Service

The Army's Freedom Team Salute (FTS) program recognizes the sacrifices of all members of the Army family.  Retired Soldiers and Army veterans, as well as the parents, spouses, and civilian employers of current active duty Soldiers, are eligible to receive a personalized commendation package.  The package includes an Army lapel pin, an Army decal, a Certificate of Appreciation, and a letter of thanks.  For more information or to nominate someone for the FTS, visit the Freedom Team Salute Website at:  http://www.freedomteamsalute.com.  If you want to receive an FTS commendation package and have not, e-mail: mailto:freedomteamsalute@hqda.army.mil.

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Insurance Assists Severely Injured

Congress established the Traumatic Service Members Group Life Insurance (TSGLI) program in 2005 in response to the experiences of military members who found themselves financially strapped after they suffered severe injuries during the war against terrorism.  Coverage applies to active-duty and reserve-component members.  Beginning Dec. 1, 2005, every service member who has Service members' Group Life Insurance automatically receives TSGLI coverage.  TSGLI coverage will pay a benefit of between $25,000 and $100,000, depending on the loss directly resulting from the traumatic injury.  For more information on TSGLI, visit: http://www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits/traumatic-injury-protection.

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American Legion Establishes Hometown Heroes Program

To ensure that each Soldier returning from deployment feels welcomed home, the American Legion launched Hometown Heroes, to encourage local American Legion units to support returning Soldiers.  The American Legion Auxiliary also supports American Soldiers and veterans by sponsoring a creative arts festival for veterans that helps former service members with their therapy and rehabilitation.  For further information, visit:  http://www.defenselink.mil/News/NewsArticle.aspx?ID=737 or the American Legion website at:  www.legion.org.

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Army Reserve and VFW Team to Enhance Troop-Support Programs

In a formal agreement signed this month, the Army Reserve and the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) of the United States have agreed to share resources and work in harmony in expanding outreach support programs for Army Reserve soldiers and their families.  The Army Reserve will contact each state VFW headquarters and provide a list of Reserve units in that state.  The two entities then will start coordinating ceremonies and plan activities at Reserve facilities.  VFW volunteers will also cross train with Army Reserve volunteers.  The agreement also encourages advocacy and support of the ESGR (Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve) Ombudsman program, which provides mediation services to employers and members of the Army Reserve.  For more information, see:  www.vfw.org.

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New Army Safety Campaign:  "Own the Edge"

Every nine hours, a U. S. Army Soldier dies.  To help leaders and Soldiers to make better choices, and thus save lives, the U. S. Army Combat Readiness Center (https://crc.army.mil/home/) initiated a campaign call Own the Edge.  This program encourages unit and individual safety, and continuous risk evaluation and hazard mitigation.  The name of the program implies Soldiers can push the limit while also maintaining control, which gives them an advantage.  For more information on this program, visit:  https://crc.army.mil/readiness/.

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Military OneSource Use Exceeds Expectations

Military OneSource is a virtual community support service that the Army implemented in August 2003, which is available world-wide 24 hours a day to Soldiers, deployed Department of Defense (DoD) civilians, and family members.  Each military service has its own OneSource.  The DoD created Military OneSource as a portal to access all the military services' OneSource programs.  Utilization shows strong gains in 2006.  From the time MOS was first provided to the Army in August 2003 to May 2006 there have been 111,285 calls to the daily 24 hour call center, 302,258 visits to the website, and 28,754 referrals for non-medical counseling. Current utilization in 2006 (259,541 uses) has already reached 23.6 percent, far exceeding the 2006 target of 15 percent.  The Army leads the other branches in referrals for non-medical counseling with a monthly referral rate of 0.2 percent.  Nearly two-thirds of all users (65.9 percent) are Soldiers, and 6 percent are repeat users.  For more information on Military OneSource, visit:  www.militaryonesource.com.  For assistance from Military OneSource, call 800-342-9647.  To find out more about Army Family Programs, see:  www.MyArmyLifeToo.com.

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Uniformed Services Family Health Plan

The Uniformed Services Family Health Plan (USFHP) is a TRICARE Prime option available to active duty dependents, retirees and retiree family members through not-for-profit health care systems in six areas of the United States .  If you use the USFHP, you must get all care through the USFHP network in your area.  By using USFHP you get the TRICARE Prime program benefits, plus premium advantages and features at no extra cost.  For more information about eligibility, visit the USFHP Website at: http://www.usfhp.com/portal/faq.asp?s=76, or the TRICARE Website at http://www.tricare.osd.mil/faqs/Default.aspx.  You may enroll in the USFHP at any time during the year by completing an application for the provider in your area.  For more information, and to download an application, visit:  http://www.usfamilyhealthplan.org.

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TRICARE Program Assists Injured Soldiers

TRICARE's Computer/Electronic Accommodations Program (CAP) provides helpful technology to injured Soldiers who are blind, visually or hearing impaired, or have dexterity, communication, or cognitive issues.  These Soldiers can call the CAP office at (703) 681-8813 to discuss their specific needs.  For further information on this TRICARE service, see:  http://www.tricare.osd.mil/cap/.

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TRICARE Allowable Charges Available Online

The new website at:  http://www.tricare.osd.mil/allowablecharges shows the most frequently used procedures and the amount TRICARE is legally allowed to pay for them.  These charges are tied to allowable charges for the Medicare program, thus making them an allowable federal standard for health care costs.  It used to be that a TRICARE claims processor told the provider the allowable charge amount for services and procedures.  Now anyone can see what TRICARE will pay for over 300 procedures and services.

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Health Information Privacy Rights

Do you know your health information privacy rights?  As of April 14, 2003, healthcare plans and providers were required to provide patients with a Notice of Privacy Practices, which describes how your medical information may be used, with whom it may be shared, your rights under the HIPPA Act, and how to file a complaint if you believe your rights have been violated.  To obtain a copy of Military Health System Notice of Privacy Practices contact your military treatment facility (MTF) HIPAA Privacy Officer, access your MTF website, or visit the TMA Privacy Office Website at http://www.tricare.osd.mil/tmaprivacy.  Or, you can mail a written request to TRICARE Management Activity, Privacy Office, Five Skyline Place, Suite 810 , 5111 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church , VA  22041-3206 .

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More Funding for Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center

Legislation increasing the amount of funding for the Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center to $19-million dollars received unanimous approval by the U.S. Senate recently.  The increased funding would be used by the Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center - which is headquartered at Walter Reed Army Medical Center and coordinates efforts at ten facilities in other states, including Virginia , California , Texas , Florida , Minnesota , and North Carolina .  These centers provide state-of-art, innovative medical care including physical rehabilitation and speech therapy.  For more information about the Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center , visit:  www.dvbic.org.

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Teaching Future Soldiers

Working as an instructor with the Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) is one way to help today's high school students turn into the Soldiers of tomorrow.  To qualify, you must be a commissioned or non-commissioned officer who has been retired for three years or less and is receiving retired pay.  You must also have been approved as an instructor.  If you would like more information about JROTC employment opportunities, e-mail mailto:jrotcim@usaac.army.mil

or call (757) 788-4001 or 1-800-347-6641.

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Army Soldier Show Accepting Applications

Soldier-entertainers have until Dec. 31 to apply for an audition for the 2007 U.S. Army Soldier Show.  Audio, video, lighting, costume and stage technicians also are needed.  Submission packets must include:  (1) a 10-minute DVD or VHS tape demonstrating your talent; (2) a copy of the results of your most recent Army Physical Fitness Test, including height and weight; (3) a copy of your updated enlisted or officer record brief; (4) an entertainment resume; (5) a Department of the Army photo or similar photo in uniform; and (6) a letter of intent to release from your chain of command.  Specific questions e-mailed to mailto:soldiershow@cfsc.army.mil will be answered.  For more information, visit:  http://www.armyentertainment.net.

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Congress Addressing Payday Loan Sharks

A General Accountability Office study released last month offers insight into how payday-lending businesses frequently gouge troops short of cash by charging exorbitant interest rates on loans borrowed against their next paychecks.  "The Report on Predatory Lending Practices Directed at Members of the Armed Forces and Their Dependents" at

http://www.militaryhomefront.dod.mil/dav/lsn/LSN/BINARY_RESOURCE/BINARY_CONTENT/2145951.pdf notes as many as one in five service members are falling prey to loan centers near military bases.  The problem is that these loans carry an Annual Percentage Rate of between 400-750 percent and, more often than not, the borrower is unable to pay off the loan when it is due, and must take out another loan to pay off the first loan, leading to a cycle of debt.  The report concludes that "predatory lending undermines military readiness, harms the morale of troops and their families, and adds to the cost of fielding an all volunteer fighting force."

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Helpful Personal Finance Websites

The following websites are sponsored by the National Endowment for Financial Education (NEFE) to provide significant self-help information on personal finance:

www.smartaboutmoney.org -- offers practical information to help consumers achieve their financial goals

www.ntrbonline.org  -- offers information presented for teenagers interested in learning more about personal finance

www.nefe.org/hsfppportal/index.html -- offers a curriculum designed to integrate into high school classes that focus on basic personal finance principles.

www.nefe.org -- offers personal finance information to the public on a variety of topics through the Multimedia Access section and Financial Education Clearinghouse.

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Protect Yourself from Identity Theft

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) has released an online multi-media tool that consumers can use to learn how to better protect their computers and themselves from identity theft.  The DVD entitled "Don't be an Online Victim:  How to Guard against Internet Thieves and Electronic Scams" is available free from the FDIC.  Addressed are steps to secure computers and protect from identity theft, as well as actions consumers should take if they become a victim of identity theft.  To order free copies of the DVD, visit:  http://www.fdic.gov/consumers/consumer/guard/.

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Helping Wounded Troops Return to Work

Officials from the Defense Department and military services got together recently for the first "From Deployment to Employment" conference to discuss ways to better serve America's severely injured service members.  Among the programs featured was the Computer/Electronic Accommodations Program (CAP) at http://www.tricare.osd.mil/cap/, which provides technology and services to people with disabilities.  The Military Severely Injured Center also provides support 24 hours a day by telephone at 888-774-1361.  DoD has been working with other federal agencies, such as the labor and veterans affairs departments.

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"Why We Serve" Campaign Visits Local Communities

Thirteen service members who have recently returned from deployments in the Middle East are traveling around the U.S. to share their experiences and reasons for serving in uniform.  The "Why We Serve" program has the goal of helping connect returning Soldiers with the general public.  The thirteen service members represent Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines, and will visit schools and universities, media outlets, Chambers of Commerce, and Rotary Clubs.   The goal of this educational campaign is not to win additional public support for the war on terror, but to educate the public and make a more personal connection between service members and the communities they volunteer to defend.  To read more about the "Why We Serve" Campaign, visit:  http://www.defenselink.mil/news/NewsArticle.aspx?ID=577.

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New USO Center Open at Fort Bliss

The newest of 125 United Service Organizations (USO) around the world opened recently at Fort Bliss , TX , to serve that post's 36,000 member military population and their families.  The facility is centrally located within walking distance of several large barracks.  USO centers offer free e-mail and Internet access, prepaid international phone cards, entertainment and lounge areas, libraries and travel assistance.  For more information about the USO and to locate the closest USO center, visit the USO website at:  http://www.uso.org/.

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Retreats for Couples Affected by Deployments

Project Phoenix provides help to couples, whose marriages are affected by combat deployments and their emotional aftermaths, by sending the couples on retreats.  The retreats are open to combat veterans of all ages and branches of service.  Commanders or colleagues may recommend participants for a retreat.  Participants can also sign up for the program themselves by filling out an application. For more details on Project Phoenix, visit the website of the Military, Veteran and Family Assistance Foundation (MVFA) at:  http://www.mvfa.org.

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Students Asked to Help Count Stars

NASA and the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) are collaborating on a new education activity that helps students become astronomers.  As part of the Star Count Project, students will learn how to estimate the number of stars observed based on random samples of sections of the sky.  Students will add to the database by entering their location, number of stars observed and information about their viewing conditions.  To participate in the Star Count Project, students should visit the Star Count Website at http://www.nasa.gov/audience/foreducators/starcount/home/index.html.  For more information about NASA education programs, the Star Count Project and the Student Observation Network, visit the NASA Education Website at http://www.nasa.gov/education.

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Calling DFAS Will Be Easier

The Defense Finance and Accounting Service's Cleveland Center is working to upgrade the service that retirees and annuitant surviving spouses receive when contacting the Retired and Annuitant Call Center.  When you call DFAS at 1-800-321-1080 or (216) 522-5955, your call will soon be answered by an automated operator.  The system will ask you to either say your

Social Security number (SSN) or enter it through the numbers on your touchtone phone.  You will need to give your SSN so that the system can access your records.  You will then be able to use the automated system to perform certain tasks - changing your correspondence or bank address or requesting a new retired pay or tax statement.  (Note:  These statements are not mailed until the end of the year.)  DFAS plans to expand this technology to help you accomplish other account maintenance tasks or to request other documents.  For further information, visit:  www.dfas.mil.

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The Family Programs Six-Month Calendar of Events

v      09 - 11 Oct 06:  AUSA/Army Spouse Employment Partnership (ASEP) IPR, Washington, DC

v      25 - 27 Oct 06:  AFTB Senior Spouse Leadership Seminar, USASMA, FT Bliss, TX

v      28 Oct 06:         Make a Difference Day

v      13 - 17 Nov 06:  HQDA AFAP Conference, Alexandria, VA

v      14 Nov 06:         AFAP (Fall) General Officers Steering Committee (GOSC)

v      03 - 08 Dec 06:  AFTB Master Trainer/Program Managers Course, Location:  TBD

v      16 Dec 06:         Army Family Team Building (AFTB) Day

v      13 - 15 Feb 07:  AFTB Senior Spouse Leadership Seminar, AWC, Carlisle , PA

v      14 - 15 Mar 07:  Army Family Readiness Advisory Council (AFRAC) Meeting, Location:  TBD

This is not an unsolicited email.  You are receiving this listserve because you are a valued registrant of MyArmyLifeToo.com.   To unsubscribe to this listserve, please click here.

MyArmyLifeToo.com makes no warranty, express or implied, with respect to the content, information, or services provided herein.  MyArmyLifeToo.com is endorsed by the Department of Army, US Army Community and Family Support Center (USACFSC).

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Community and Family Support Center

Family Programs Directorate

4700 King Street, Summit Center

Alexandria, VA    22302

Burning of U.S. flags marks war anniversary

By Hamid Ahmed - The Associated Press
Posted : Friday Mar 20, 2009 17:12:47 EDT
   
BAGHDAD � American flags were set on fire Friday to chants of �no, no for occupation� as followers of an anti-U.S. Shiite cleric marked the sixth anniversary of the Iraq war.

In five other Iraqi cities, supporters of cleric Muqtada al-Sadr also either marched or stood in protest after prayers to demand the release of their allies detained at Iraqi and U.S.-run prisons.

The protests came as a suicide bomber in Fallujah killed an Iraqi police officer and five other people, including civilians, in an attempted attack on the home of the local leader of Sunni security volunteers who turned against al-Qaida.

Also, a pair of roadside bombs exploded within 10 minutes of one another after sundown Friday, wounding four policemen and three civilians in Baghdad�s Karradah district, police said. A police colonel and his aide were wounded in a bombing Friday in Saddam Hussein�s hometown of Tikrit, police said.

In the capital, al-Sadr aide Sheik Haidar al-Jabiri urged supporters to join an April 9 march to protest the six-year anniversary of Americans taking over the city.

�Today, a remembrance of the cruel occupation of Iraq, and on April 9, there will be a chant for liberation,� al-Sadr aide Sheik Haidar al-Jabiri told worshippers gathered in Baghdad�s Shiite district of Sadr City for Friday sermons.

He added: �Sayed Muqtada invites you to march by the millions on April 9, the anniversary of the cruel occupation.�

Baghdad fell to U.S. forces on April 9, 2003. The war began with a missile and bombing attack on south Baghdad before dawn on March 20, 2003 � March 19 in Washington.

A similar planned march last year was canceled. Al-Sadr�s previous demonstrations have attracted thousands of supporters, but have not reached 1 million.

Demonstrators responded by lifting a banner reading: �To the Iraqi government, when you will be trustful and release our detainee sons?�

�No, no for occupation. Yes, yes for liberation. Yes, yes for Iraq,� the demonstrators chanted.

Two American flags were set on fire.

Thousands of Sadrist followers in five other cities � Basra, Kut, Diwaniyah, Amarah and Nasiriyah � also took to the streets Friday in an apparent planned series of protests.

In Kut, up to 1,000 worshippers marched from the grand mosque in center of the city to Sadrist offices a short distance away, denouncing the U.S. occupation and calling for detainees to be released.

Outside Fallujah, an Iraqi police officer and a small groups of civilians died Friday while trying to stop a suicide bomber from reaching the home of Saadoun al-Eifan, who runs the local branch of the Sunni volunteers, the Sons of Iraq.

Police Maj. Hamed al-Jumaili said the bomber was trying to get past guards monitoring a bridge in rural Albu Eifan, where Eifan lives, about six miles (10 kilometers) south of Fallujah. He detonated his explosives belt after bring confronted by the police officer and residents, Jumaili said.

The protests and bombings came a day after a U.S. airstrike on a militant hideout north of Baghdad killed at least 11 insurgents, the U.S. said.

A search of the site by ground forces after the strike found a cache of weapons, munitions and parts to build improvised explosive devices, U.S. military spokesman Maj. Derrick Cheng said Friday.

Cheng did not immediately know Friday whether any civilians were killed or injured in the strike, or exactly when it occurred. He said the suspected insurgents were hiding near several bunkers south of Balad Ruz in Diyala province � about 45 miles (70 kilometers) northeast of Baghdad.

An Iraqi security official, speaking on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to talk to the media, said the strike took place Thursday morning.

Meanwhile, the U.S. military announced the Thursday death of an American soldier from non-combat causes in Iraq.

At least 4,260 American service members have died in Iraq since the war started, according to an Associated Press count.

���

Associated Press Writer Lara Jakes contributed to this report.

Mysteries of the Sexes Explained
  
Provided by Men's Health
  
Are You Too Clingy ?
Posted by David Zinczenko
on Thu, Aug 16, 2007, 12:03 am PDT

A guy in a good relationship is, for the most part, a pretty happy guy - and most of us know how lucky we are. 
In fact, 75 percent of men would grade their current relationship as an A or a B, according to a poll of more than 2,000 men for my book, "Men, Love &  Sex." But there are three main sins that can turn a man from happy to  "hey-where's-the-door" in no time.
Lying is the first one, and unless you're lying to yourself, as well, you know how not to do it. Nagging is the second, and you'll know you're doing it when the words you say are immediately followed by the thought, "I sound just like my mother!" 
But the third deadly sin is harder to spot in one's self, because it often looks and feels just like love. I'm talking about clinginess. Men are hard to decipher on this point, because they value in women both vulnerability (they want to be your hero) and independence (they want to be left alone once in a while). He wants you close; he doesn't want you on him like a freshly dried sock. Here are some signs that your relationship Velcro is about to endure a loud ripping noise.
 
Needy Sign 1: Your Over-Under on Daily Phone Calls is Two*

Fine, you need to check in once during the day to see if you're set for dinner, and then once again later in the day just to fill him in on what happened to your boss/friend/grandmom, or just to say hello. 
You make more calls than that? The unspoken message is that maybe you don't trust him, or don't have enough to do yourself, or are relying too much on him for everyday satisfaction. All are turn-offs-and, in all likelihood, grounds for tuning out. 
* Three, if you have kids.

Needy Sign 2: You Insist on a Joint E-mail Account

Oh, how nice it is when "Bob and Karen@yahoo" can e-mail "Joe and Linda@yahoo" to set up the night at the Italian place on the 20th. Not really. 
While there's no problem with joint bank accounts, joint car loans, and joint mortgages, there's a not so subtle message that's sent to guys when their Internet activity is being monitored like it's under the eyes of a 24-hour surveillance camera: That you don't trust him a lick. 
There's certainly some dangerous ground online (and I can't deny that plenty of men abuse their electronic privacy), but tightening the cyber-noose too much in the beginning of a relationship can send the signal to a man that he's not going to have an iota of privacy anytime or anywhere.
 
Needy Sign 3: You Update Him on the Latest Celebrity Gossip

Granted, a lot of men don't like to talk. And granted, a lot of men could be more talkative, better listeners, and more of an emotional  sounding board for their partners. But some men are like cars - they have only so much emotional and conversational fuel before they run out of gas. 
Of course, there's nothing wrong with banter about such inane stuff as Britney, Lindsay, or who's dating whom, but do that too often with a guy, and he may wonder if there's something wrong with your other social networks - which would make him think that he's going to be obligated to carry more of the social weight than he's ready to handle. 
 
Needy Sign 4: You Don't Have Your Own Poker Night

Get this: 64 percent of men say they're happy to have time to themselves when their girlfriends have plans. A lot of men want their ladies to go out and do stuff on their own, whether it's through hobbies or socializing or working. 
One, that away-from-each-other time ensures that women have their own independent outlets. And two, it gives men a chance to have their own testosterone release. If this doesn't happen  - at least occasionally - resentment and frustration can build, because the unspoken message is that you may not have enough of your own independence to respect  his.

Know a few other needy signs? Share them here. And guys: Lest you think you're off the hook, here are 10 ways that women are judging you. 
Read �em and heed �em.

10 Ways Women Judge You...And how to win them over anyway
 
Can't Tell the Players Without a Scorecard
"So much subliminal information is conveyed in those first seconds of contact," says Carol Kauffman, Ph.D., a relationship therapist and psychology instructor at Harvard medical school. Okay, so you're on the clock. Make every second count. Below are 10 ways - in rough chronological order - a woman judges your fitness to be her proverbial daddy.

Did He Dress Well for the Date?
"She's watching to see if you put some energy into your dress and grooming," says Aline Zoldbrod, Ph.D., a psychologist and sex therapist in Boston. "If you don't take the trouble to dress well for her now, she could see it as disrespectful."

Is He Depressed?
Does he stare at my breasts? Does he have any sense of humor? If you're a total loser, it pays for her to ascertain that on the first date, says Zoldbrod.

Is He Like My Ex?
Yes, we always pay for the last guy's sins. "What women want is often based on their past negative or positive experiences," says Kauffman. So when she talks about past boyfriends, heed well.

Is He Bitter About Past Relationships?
She needs full use of your closets. There's no room for baggage.

Can He Talk About Himself and Listen to Me?
She'll carry 80 percent of the conversation load. Just make sure your 20 percent is about something.

Is He Generous?
Women somehow see a correlation between leaving a 10 percent tip and having a propensity to drown kittens.

Does He Make Me Feel Understood and Appreciated?
If you can't succinctly state her values, her politics, and her ambitions, you're probably failing here. Ask more questions. Listen to the answers this time.

Is He Open to a Relationship but Not Needy?
Ace the other nine criteria here and your odds of appearing needy will edge toward nil.

Does He Keep Promises?
If you're not reliable, you're not viable, especially not for the ultimate goal of all this. . . .

Does He Have the Potential to be a Good Father?
"For long-term potential, she considers whether you have the values she wants in a man," says Jean Koehler, Ph.D., president of the American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors, and Therapists. If she can't see tykes on your knee, she's wasting her time. How you interact with your own family can be a strong indicator here.

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