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Get Ready to Vote!

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“The influence over government must be shared among all the people. If every individual which composes their mass participates of the ultimate authority, the government will be safe.”  – Thomas Jefferson

Our forefathers, Thomas Jefferson included, saw a new world formed—a world where individuals would keep the government in check and prevent overzealous leaders from pushing their taxes and personal agendas on them. For this government to be successful, individuals need to participate. Our participation in government comes in many forms, but the main one is voting.

“This process of election affords a moral certainty that the office of President will seldom fall to the lot of any man who is not in an eminent degree endowed with the requisite qualifications.” – Alexander Hamilton

Not all elections are presidential elections. While these are the most publicized and likely the most contentious, there are elections at every level. Within your voting residence, you are voting for local chairpersons, mayors, and congresspeople who represent the individuals of that district. To know who is on the ballot and what to expect for platforms, you need to be registered to vote.

Registration

Every vote counts, and collectively, they shape the direction of governance, impact social issues, and determine the allocation of resources. From the small allocation of local funds at the city level, to state to the nation, voting impacts where funding is spent. Voting protects the ability to vote in the future. Voting often decides where resources schools get, which roads are repaired and how many snow trucks to have at the ready. The first step to sharing your opinion on these topics is to register to vote.

Register to vote at vote.gov

For military voters, the Federal Voting Assistance Program, FVAP, provides the ability to vote absentee. Need help registering to vote? Look up your base here to contact the Installation Voter Assistance Office.

Absentee Ballots

Active-duty military and their dependents who live outside their voting residence can vote absentee. Submit a Federal Post Card Application. This form can be printed and sent in annually to ensure that your information is up to date and ready to be utilized for every election you are eligible to vote in.

The MOVE Act requires states to send absentee ballots to absentee voters at least 45 days before federal elections, so look out for your ballot around this time period before an expected election. Contact your local voting office if you haven’t received your absentee ballot and are expecting one. Find your voting residence here.

A few reminders for the military voter:

  • Update Your Address: If you want your absentee ballot to arrive, you must have the correct address for the registrar to mail it to.
  • Update Any Preferences: Don’t forget if you want to vote in certain party preliminaries, you must be registered to vote for that party.

In conclusion, voting is not merely a right; it is a responsibility and a privilege that should be cherished and exercised by all eligible citizens. The outcomes of elections have far-reaching consequences that affect individuals, families, and communities for years to come. By casting your ballot, you can shape the future, advocate for your beliefs, and create positive change in society.  Voting is a cornerstone of democracy and every American citizen should commit to participating actively in the electoral process, ensuring that our voices are heard and our values upheld in the halls of power.

Balancing Career and Family Life: Tips for Military Spouses

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Balancing a career and family life is a challenge for many individuals, but military spouses face unique obstacles due to the demands of military life. With frequent relocations, deployments, and the uncertainty of being part of a military family, finding the balance between career aspirations and family responsibilities can seem daunting. However, with careful planning, support, and a positive outlook, military spouses can navigate these challenges and commit to a career and a family if that is desired.

One of the first steps to successfully balance career and family life is to prioritize communication and collaboration with your spouse. Open and honest discussions about career goals, deployment schedules, and family needs can help both partners understand each other’s priorities and create a plan that accommodates both career aspirations and family responsibilities. While the realities of the uncertainties of the military schedule and last-minute changes do not make this the fail-safe, this provides an opportunity to at least communicate the needs and goals. This does not mean that the active-duty partner can always pick up the slack when the military spouse has heavier demands, but other solutions can be discussed.

Flexibility is key for military spouses seeking to balance their career aspirations with the demands of military life. Flexibility in the schedule. Perhaps the active-duty spouse said they could do childcare pick-up but now cannot due to work schedule, a flexible option is necessary. Whether this is a friend who can do pick up, or a job for the military spouse with flexible hours. Military spouses may need to explore flexible work arrangements, such as remote work opportunities, freelance or contract work, or part-time employment. These alternatives can provide the flexibility needed to accommodate military obligations while still allowing spouses to pursue their career goals.

Networking and building a support system are essential for military spouses seeking to advance their careers while balancing family responsibilities. Connecting with other military spouses, local community organizations, and professional networks can provide valuable support, resources, and opportunities for career advancement. Online communities and social media platforms can also be valuable resources for connecting with other military spouses and accessing job opportunities, mentorship, and career development resources. There are groups on social media for every time of employment that discuss not just job opportunities but training opportunities as well.

Seeking out employers who support military families can also make a significant difference in balancing career and family life. Military-friendly employers often offer programs and policies specifically designed to support military spouses, such as flexible work arrangements, remote work options, and relocation assistance. Researching and applying to military-friendly employers can increase the likelihood of finding a job that accommodates military families’ unique needs while still offering career growth and advancement opportunities.

Support through taking care of oneself is essential for military spouses. Self-care practices such as regular exercise, healthy eating, adequate sleep, and stress management techniques can help military spouses maintain their physical, emotional, and mental well-being amidst the demands of military life. Prioritizing self-care benefits the individual and enhances their ability to effectively manage the challenges of balancing career and family responsibilities.

Finally, maintaining a positive outlook and resilience in the face of adversity is crucial for military spouses navigating the complexities of balancing career and family life. Military life often comes with unexpected challenges and changes, but approaching them with a proactive and adaptable mindset can help military spouses overcome obstacles and thrive in their careers and family roles. By embracing flexibility, seeking support, and prioritizing self-care, military spouses can achieve a harmonious balance between their professional aspirations and their family commitments.

In conclusion, balancing a career and family life as a military spouse requires resilience, flexibility, and support. By prioritizing communication, exploring flexible work arrangements, building a strong support system, seeking out military-friendly employers, prioritizing self-care, and maintaining a positive outlook, military spouses can successfully navigate the challenges of military life while pursuing their career aspirations and fulfilling their roles within their families. With dedication and perseverance, military spouses can achieve a fulfilling balance between their professional pursuits and their commitments to their families, ensuring that they thrive both personally and professionally despite the unique challenges of military life.

Military Spouse Career Accelerator Pilot Launched

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Military spouses looking to return to the workforce or launch a new career are invited to apply for the new Military Spouse Career Accelerator Program.   This program is part of the Taking Care of People directive from the Department of Defense. The program from the Spouse Education and Career Opportunities (SECO) section of Military One Source is a competitive multi-year program that provides spouses with paid 12-week fellowships at employers across various industries and locations. All fellowships are located within the continental United States.

The program will run for three years with rolling application acceptance dates. Not all applications will lead to fellowships, but they will lead to connections with a career coach to assist the applicant in getting ready for moving forward with a career of interest.

Eligibility:

-Career-ready spouses of members of the U.S. Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, and Space Force to include active, reserve, and National Guard components

-Fellowships are chosen based on previous work experience and the applicant’s previous education

How to Apply:

-Click the link here

-Answer the questions to ensure eligibility and then complete the application

-If not able to apply, you will be connected to an SECO career coach

How is a Fellowship Program chosen?

After application, the applicant’s location, education, and ability to commit are taken into account.

There are both in-person and remote fellowship opportunities.

If you have a specific question about the SECO Military Spouse Career Accelerator Program, email MSCAP@uschamber.com.

This program is separate from the Hiring Our Heroes program, which provides coaching and fellowships. If someone interested does not get into the SECO program, check out the Hiring Our Heroes program.

MyCAA

Another program available to military spouses desiring to further their education is the MyCAA program. Spouses of service members on active duty in pay grades E-1 to E-6, W-1 to W-2, and O-1 to O-3 who have successfully completed high school and have the ability to request tuition assistance while their military sponsor is on Title 10 military orders are eligible to participate in the MyCAA funding. The first 1,250 approved applicants in pay grades E-6 and O-3 will receive MyCAA financial assistance based on available funding. The MyCAA program provides up to $4,000 of tuition assistance to eligible military spouses. Read all about the MyCAA program and contact information for any questions.

Further resources for spouse employment can be found here.

Starting Sourdough: Making a Scoby and Baking without a Dutch Oven

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Sourdough is an easy and delicious bread perfect for sandwiches, an addition to a charcuterie board or for general bread enjoyment. Over the last several years, making your own sourdough has become immensely popular. This article is for you if not having a scoby or sourdough starter or not having a Dutch oven limited your sourdough-making skills. You can make your own sourdough starter in as little as a week! No Dutch oven? Not a problem with alternative methods for baking your sourdough bread! Check them out below.

Beginner Sourdough Starter Recipe

Ingredients

To create the starter:

To feed the starter each day (Day 3-7):

Mix the starter ingredients in a glass jar, ¾ liters in size or larger. On day 2, just watch for bubbles in the jar. On day three, mix ½ cups of flour with ¼ cups of water. Pour off about half of the starter, and then feed the starter the mix. Repeat this process for the following four days. Feed the starter at the same time every day for consistency.

If a dark liquid forms around the starter on day 3 or further, pour it off.

Your starter should double in size by day 7, with lots of bubbles and a pleasant scent. If the scent smells like gym socks or is just generally unpleasant, it is not a good starter and should be tossed.

If your starter is spongy in texture, with lots of bubbles and a pleasant scent, it is correct and ready to transfer to a clean glass jar. This is where you will take starter for future sourdough recipes. Now grab your favorite sourdough recipe and get ready to bake!

No Dutch Oven? No problem!

While using a Dutch oven helps create a perfect crust and helps retain steam during baking, there are alternative methods you can use to achieve similar results if you do not have a Dutch Oven. Here are a few options:

  1. Baking Stone or Pizza Stone: Preheat your oven with a baking stone or pizza stone placed on the center rack. When ready to bake, slide your proofed sourdough bread onto the preheated stone using a peel or a flat baking sheet. The stone will provide even heat distribution and help create a crispy crust similar to that of a Dutch oven.
  2. Cast Iron Skillet: If you have a cast iron skillet, you can use it to bake your sourdough bread. Preheat the skillet in the oven, and when ready to bake, carefully transfer your proofed dough into the hot skillet. Cover the skillet with a large inverted bowl or aluminum foil during the first part of baking to trap steam and create a moist environment for the bread. Remove the cover halfway through baking to allow the crust to brown.
  3. Baking Sheet with Steam: Preheat your oven with a baking sheet placed on the bottom rack. Just before placing your bread in the oven, add a few ice cubes or pour a cup of hot water into the preheated baking sheet to create steam. Quickly transfer your proofed bread onto the center rack and bake as usual. The steam will help create a crispy crust.
  4. Cloche or Covered Baker: If you have a covered ceramic baker or cloche, you can use it as a substitute for a Dutch oven. Preheat the baker or cloche in the oven, and when ready to bake, carefully transfer your proofed dough into the hot vessel. Cover it with the lid and bake as usual. The covered baker will trap steam, resulting in a crusty loaf.
  5. Improvised Steam Method: Place a metal baking pan on the bottom rack of your oven while preheating. Just before placing your bread in the oven, pour boiling water into the hot pan to create steam. Quickly transfer your proofed dough onto the center rack and bake as usual. Be cautious when adding the water to avoid burns.

While a Dutch oven provides an ideal environment for baking sourdough bread, these alternative methods can still yield excellent results. Experiment with different techniques to find the method that works best for you and your baking setup.

This is your year to make some sourdough bread at home with your own starter and using the baking tools you have at home. Ready, set, bake!

Roll Into Motorcycle Season 2024 Safely

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KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. (AFNS) —  

The time is coming! Days will be longer and warmer soon which means more outdoor activities and motorcycles on the road. Understanding motorcycle safety is essential for all motorcycle riders. Awareness of hazards, personal protective equipment and safety precautions all contribute to mitigating risks. This Motorcycle Preseason, March 21 through May 16, motorcycle riders need to be aware and prepared to ensure 2024 is the safest riding season yet.

Motor vehicle mishaps are the most common threats to road safety. In 2023, there were 22 motorcycle fatalities across the Department of the Air Force. Of those, 16 were in excess of 25 miles over the speed limit, and seven involved an intoxicating substance. This preseason, the Department of the Air Force intends to contact and register 100% of its riders, then schedule and train all riders, followed by a unit sweep to identify any unregistered riders and get them up to code.

The Motorcycle Unit Safety Tracking Tool was designed to provide training data for DAF motorcycle riders. Ten of last year’s fatalities were found to have inactive MUSTT accounts or no account at all. This mandatory training and tracking system is vital to serving motorcycle riders and could save lives.

“Untrained riders, regardless of age or years of riding experience, are most susceptible to unsafe practices,” said David R. Brandt, Traffic Safety deputy branch chief. “Riding and training are two separate things. Training and practice help to make riding safer.”

Motorcycle Preseason, March 21 through May 16

As the motorcycle safety program manager and a 25-year rider, Brandt recommends that riders build skills through diligent practice and training. With training, riders will be able to avoid dangerous situations and prevent themselves from getting hurt, or worse.

Risk takers, who deliberately break rules, is another serious issue when riding. Lack of compliance to regulatory guidance is a main area of concern. Riding under the influence, riding with no personal protective equipment or proper training, directly leads to unsafe practices. When a member does break the rules, they are subject to a Line of Duty determination where they could lose benefits or must pay their own mishap costs.

Proper training gives Airman and Guardian riders an avenue to acquire skills, build a rider’s mentality, and educate other riders on current standards and techniques. Every DAF Rider should be physically capable, mechanically sound and mentally prepared to mitigate risks before riding a motorcycle.

Brandt’s top tip for riders is learn how to brake effectively.

“With all the data and research we have, effective braking could solve 75% of all motorcycle mishaps,” Brandt said. “Emergency braking and learning to trail brake in the corners would completely change the way you ride.”

The DAF Rider website is a one-stop shop for all things motorcycle in the Department of the Air Force. For questions that aren’t answered on the site, each unit also has a motorcycle safety representative who is knowledgeable of all requirements. Riders can also contact their Wing or MAJCOM Safety offices with questions. The Traffic Safety branch here at the Air Force Safety Center is also here to help answer any questions you may have. There is no reason a DAF member should be lost regarding motorcycle requirements.

For more information see the DAF Rider page at https://www.safety.af.mil/Divisions/Occupational-Safety-Division/Air-Force-Rider/ or contact your motorcycle safety representative

Originally appeared on Af.mil

Published March 18, 2024

By Staff Sgt. Lauren Douglas

Air Force Safety Center Public Affairs

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Confidential Help for Military Mental Health

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The Brandon Act is critical health care guidance implemented to support service members on their path to mental health. The policy is in accordance with federal law (Section 704 of Public Law 117-81) and a Congressional bill named in honor of Petty Officer 3rd Class Brandon Caserta who died by suicide in 2018. Legislation came to pass as a result of Caserta’s passing and his parents valiant efforts to get better access to mental healthcare for service members. The Brandon Act legislation is a step toward preventing military suicide.

Ultimately, the legislation aims to streamline access to mental healthcare as well as reduce the stigma associated with mental health by keeping the process confidential.

Under the Brandon Act, if a service member feels they need help, the only thing they need to do is ask their supervisor. No explanation is necessary. At any time and any place the request can be made. The service member will be provided a mental health evaluation. These efforts offer a more expeditious and efficient process for the service member that may be struggling.

Additionally, service members continue to have the option to contact a mental health care provider directly, without the involvement of their unit.

The Brandon Act is another way the military aims to take care of those who serve.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, reach out.

Anyone in crisis should immediately call 911 or the 988 Military Crisis Line. For non-crisis situations, there are numerous medical and non-medical mental health resources available to assist service members in need of mental health support. Find more information on available resources at health.mil/mentalhealth.

Addressing Veteran Homelessness is VA Objective in 2024

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Recently, the VA announced it’s goal to house 41,000 homeless veterans across the United States. Ultimately, the Department of Veterans Affairs aims to prevent and end veteran homelessness and housing those currently without homes is part of that objective.

Specifically, in fiscal year 2024, VA will:

  • Place at least 41,000 Veterans experiencing homelessness into permanent housing.
  • Ensure that at least 95% of the Veterans housed in FY 2024 do not return to homelessness during the year.
  • Engage with at least 40,000 unsheltered Veterans to help them obtain housing and other wraparound services.

VA Deputy Secretary Tanya Bradsher said “Even one Veteran experiencing homelessness is a tragedy,” and goes on to say, “We’ve made progress in recent years in tackling this problem, but there’s still a long way to go — and that’s why we’re setting these aggressive goals. We will not rest until every Veteran has a safe, stable place to call home in this country they swore to defend.”

“Whenever we get into contact with a homeless Veteran, our first priority is to get them into the housing they deserve,” added Bradsher. “Then we work to provide them with the tools they need to stay housed — including health care, job training, legal and education assistance, and more. That’s how we’ll meet and exceed these goals in 2024.”

Reaching homeless veterans is paramount in the Department of Veterans Affairs goal to obtain permanent housing for unsheltered vets.

If you are a Veteran who is experiencing homelessness or at risk for homelessness, call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 877-4AID-VET (877-424-3838). Visit the VA Homeless Programs website to learn about housing initiatives and other programs for Veterans exiting homelessness.

For more information about VA’s comprehensive efforts to end Veteran homelessness, visit VA.gov/homeless.

Technology to Assist Increase Voter Turnout In the Military

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How do you overcome voter apathy in the United States? Since 1990, the nonpartisan non-profit Rock the Vote has encouraged young voters to get out and rock the vote. One area of young people especially affected by voter apathy is the military, and it isn’t necessarily for the reasons expected. The challenges of voting via absentee ballot are especially difficult for military members who frequently move or deploy and are unable to update with a current address in the timeframe that voter registration requires or the ballot is never received in the state. VotingWorks hopes to fill that gap.

According to the Federal Voting Assistance Program, 75% of eligible military members vote absentee due to being stationed away from their home precincts. If a service member is deployed, receiving the absentee ballot with enough time to complete and enough time for it to be received in a timely manner is challenging. In 2020, FVAP found that military voter turnout was 27 percentage points lower than civilian voters with similar characteristics. 

VotingWorks is working on technology that would specifically improve the military absentee statistic.  This is in answer to a research project funded by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency to address the challenges of service members voting in their home districts while stationed elsewhere. The project has specific goals, including casting the ballot and confirming that the vote was counted.

The current solution is a digitally encrypted ballot on a deployable terminal using the military common access card (CAC). In a time period when secure networks and computers can be utilized at home by service members, why can’t a CAC be utilized to authenticate and digitally complete and sign a voting ballot? The deployable terminal would then print a paper ballot with a mailing label and send it to the service member’s home state. The paper ballot ensures that there is a ballot available for the audit which typically occurs four weeks after the election.

There are logistical challenges to overcome – submarines, for instance, are not going to be able to transmit ballots. Working out the logistics will take time and effort, but any increase in voter turnout is a move in the right direction. Military service members train and are ready to lay down their life for their country, their vote should be counted and matter.

Do you Know About These Military Esports Teams?

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Esports, short for electronic sports, has emerged as a global phenomenon, captivating millions of enthusiasts across the world. Defined as competitive video gaming, esports goes above traditional notions of recreation, evolving into a multi-billion dollar industry with professional leagues, tournaments, and dedicated fan bases. It isn’t a surprise why – Esports combines the love of electronic gaming entertainment with competition. With the rise of live-streaming platforms and social media, there is wider access to esports, fostering vibrant communities and elevating talented players to celebrity status. As esports gain mainstream momentum, they shape the landscape of digital culture and redefine the notion of sports in the 21st century. The military service branches of the Navy, Army, and Air Force have developed competitive eSports teams.

The Navy Esports team is called Goats and Glory – a nod to the Goat mascot of the U.S. Naval College. The team comprises skilled sailors in all positions and jobs within the Navy, but have technical skills in the gaming world.

The Navy MWR plans to run a fitness challenge in the Spring of 2024 where sailors around the world can compete to win prizes like Xboxes, iPads, gift cards, jerseys, and more. Information is pending, but interested individuals can sign up for the Esports Newsletter here.

The Army eSports team is made of soldiers from active duty and reserves. The team is based out of Fort Knox and travels around the U.S. to compete in competitive gaming events. Travel to competitions is paid for by the Army, in addition to any expenses of certifications or other requirements. The team showcases the various skills and different backgrounds of soldiers, but all with a common interest in a strength in gaming, which may appeal to the younger generations, demonstrating their relatability to the Army.

The Air Force gaming and esports program is open to all Airmen and Guardians, without specificity of rank, age, or background. The gaming community is open to Active Duty, veterans, family, and associated groups within the Air Force. USAA sponsored the gaming league in 2023, with two sections of DAFGL Pro and DAFGL Casual. The DAFGL Pro is the pinnacle competitive team with prizes on offer. The DAFGL Pro team is open to active duty, Guard, Reserves, and DOD civilians with access to a military base. The DAFGL Casual team is open to all who are interested and enthusiastic about gaming. Those who meet the criteria and are interested in joining the gaming community can email contact@airforcegaming.com.

The addition of esports teams within the military branches represents a forward-thinking approach to harnessing technology, teamwork, and strategic thinking. These are skills important for and needed in the military context, and gaming brings them into modern times. By embracing esports, the military branches provide opportunities for skill development and camaraderie among service members and cultivate a deeper understanding of emerging technologies and digital landscapes. As these teams grow and evolve, they serve as a testament to the adaptability of the armed forces in the modern world.

Easter Fun on Base

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Easter this year falls on Sunday, March 31st, just a few short days after the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. Your military installation is not missing out on celebrations to offer. From brunches to easter egg hunts, there are activities appealing to all ages.

Check out your base MWR, FSS or MCCS for activities like these.

Fort Bliss is advertising their Easter Brunch at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center, complete with pictures with the Easter Bunny and complimentary wine, champagne, or mimosas.

Fort Liberty is advertising its Easter Brunch at the Iron Mike Conference Center on March 31st, with a reservation deadline of March 27th.

Port Hueneme is hosting the 2024 Easter Egg Hunt at Stingers Park, with egg hunts at different times for each age group, ensuring age-appropriate hunting along with free activities like pictures with the Easter Bunny, petting zoo, crafts, and face painting. MWR will be selling food for purchase at the event. There are even golden eggs inside some of the regular eggs!

FSS at MacDill AFB is holding a Easter Extravaganza with egg hunts for babies to adults on March 23rd! The hunt is complete with food trucks, face painting, crafts and more.

Navy MWR Jacksonville will hold its Underwater Egg Hunt on March 30th. The hunt is broken into age categories, complete with an adult category. Photos with the Easter Bunny, cupcakes and snow cones will also be on offer at the free event.

Camp Foster Okinawa is holding a Underwater Eggstravaganza for hunters age 3 to 15 with no pre-registration required.

NAVSTA Norfolk MWR is hosting their Easter Eggspedition on Saturday, March 30th, with an egg hunt, free game of bowling, face painting, a bounce house, raffles, and more. Preregistration is required here.

Bases around the world provide unique opportunities to celebrate while enjoying the climate and culture of the local area. Enjoy sumptuous brunches without having to cook or wash dishes, and often showcase local fare. Take the young kids to the library for Storytime and craft time. Even teens, and probably adults, will enjoy the egg hunts that are opening to all ages this year at various bases. Watch your base social media pages of MWR (Navy and Army bases), FSS (Air Force Bases), and MCCS (Marine Corps bases) for local seasonal activities as they begin to post their plans.

What’s the most memorable Easter activity you have participated in on base?