Saturday, December 29, 2007

CLASSIFIEDS >>12-28-07

ANNOUNCEMENTS

THE DROP ZONE CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT will take ads by phone from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday 982-9421, or you may mail your ad to 404 Graham Rd., Jacksonville, AR 72078. You may also email them to dropzoneclassifieds@arkansasleader.com Deadline to advertise in Friday issue is 5 p.m. Tuesday.

THRIFT SHOP open to the public. MWF, 10 am to 2 pm, first Saturday monthly. Great bargains. All revenues used to support mission. Volunteers and donations welcome. Jacksonville Care Channel, 201 Elm, 982-4647.


HELP WANTED

MAINTENANCE GENERAL Laborer's wanted for large mobile home park in Jacksonville. Pay ranges from $7.00 an hour to $12 BOE. Basic tools required. Must pass drug test. Call (501) 835-3450.

LIVE-IN sitter over 18 needed. Up to $925 a month plus car and tuti assistance. Call 713-647-0460.


HORSES

HORSES: LUCKY Acres Boarding Stable, TLC for your horse, box stalls and paddocks, clean pastures, indoor and outdoor arenas, riding instruction and training program. Dressage our specialty. (501) 988-2458.*


PETS

THREE DOGS- 1 lab mix -6 months old, 1 boxer mix- 1 1/2 years old, 1 great Dane - 10 months old. All dogs are great with my 3 kids and all other dogs. Moving all free to good homes. All don't have to go together but must go. Call anytime- 501-796-3160.

FREE to Good Home. 8 weeks old 2 male 1/2 Boston Terrier, 1/2 Golden Retriever Puppies. Both Brindle in color. Call 501-231-2895.

KENNEL For Sale, Chain linked, 10'L X 10'W X 6'H with roofing system, only used for two weeks $200, Ward, (225) 485-1167 or (501) 843-0745.

LAB/PIT PUPPIES. Will be 6 wks old as of Dec. 23. 5 M and 3 F. All with pit features. Will make great Christmas gifts. All must go. Call Lauri @ 501-804-0394 leave message.

FREE KITTEN - 3 mo. old orange and white male kitten. Super playful and cute. For pic's email koger143@hotmail.com. Call 501-605-3613. Ward

BLACK LAB - 1 1/2 years old, shots, housebroken, great with kids; w/kennel and dog house $150. Call 501-253-7200.


FURNITURE

SOFA BED no arm rests light and dark grey flowered. Material exc. cond. $100 501-835-8978

TV 25" Magnavox table model excellent cond. $110 501-835-8978.

SELLING SONY 52" 1080 HD projection TV w/2 yr. warranty orig. price $1900 asking $1200. 501-454-7835.

BEAUTIFUL BROY Hill dining room set, $400 obo. includes table, chairs, buffet/hutch, protective cover, leaves, etc. Call 501-834-1027 for pictures. simon.fam@hotmail.com

LARGE, BEAUTIFUL, w/real wood, glass, lights, etc entertainment center, $175.00 OBO. Call 501-416-1984.

BLACK LEATHER Sectional Sofa, less than a year old, excellent condition, $700 obo. 501-425-6670

BLACK LEATHER sectional sofa with 2 glass top end tables & 2 lamps sold separately $400 obo (501) 772-5471.

EUROPEAN COUCH. Starter bedroom set (5 pieces). Small Entertainment Center. Dual Voltage Stereo w/5 CD Changer. Randy (501) 259-3993.

PCSING TV Phillips 27" Silver $150 obo. Also other miscellaneous items. 347-218-3154.

FREE PULL-OUT Couch. If you can haul it, you can have it. 507-696-1797.

WASHER and Dryer for sale, 2 years old, $175 for dryer and $225 for washer, or $350 for both. Call 325-280-1754 or 501-987-5079.

GE washer and dryer, 2 years old, $350 for both or $175 for the dryer and $225 for the washer. Call 325-280-1754 or 501-987-5079. Cabot.

TOSHIBA 57 inch wide screen projection tv. HD TV ready. PIP. Excellent condition. 3 yrs. old. Orig. $2,200, sacrifice for $700. 240-5816

ALMOST NEW large micro suede living room set. Carmel/ tan in color includes couch, loveseat and ottoman. $1,800 obo. Call 501-772-8538 ask for Josh.

CHERRY OAK crib, changing table,$150.00. 8x10 oak entertainment, $400.00. White,microfiber sofa,180.00. Baby swing, $35.00. Stroller, Carseat, $35.00.

LEATHER COUCH & Loveseat, 4 years old, good condition, paid $2600, asking $400 obo. 501-628-8037

THREE CUSHION couch, good condition $30, coffee table, side table and magazine rack. Started to sand down, $20. You pick it up. 501-681-0823.

ENTERTAINMENT CENTER $20, you pick it up. 501-681-0823.

NON-WORKING refrigerator, $20, you pick it up. 501-681-0823.

LEATHER COUCH & Loveseat, 4 years old, good condition, paid $2600, asking $400 obo. Home Phone: 501-628-8037

CREAM ENTERTAINMENT Center with Twin Tower and floating top, oak curio cabinet with 4 glass shelves and sliding front loading glass doors. 416-3380

PINE COMPUTER desk/ chair, 40" L, 20" D, 29 1/2 H. $40.00. Bunk bed, red metal frame, no mattress for top, excellent cond. $45.00. Call 256-3002.

CHERRY OAK crib, changing table,$150.00. 8x10 oak entertainment, $400.00. White, microfiber sofa,180.00. Baby swing, $35.00. Stroller, Carseat, $35.00. Call Jessica Davis 501-258-1273.


LOST & FOUND

BLONDE LABRADOR Retriever w/ black collar. Lost 11-20-07 in the Swinging Bridge Rd. area of Beebe. His name is Miller. Very friendly. Please call Micah. 501-454-3154 or Carol 501-454-3490.


WANTED

MOTORHOME DESIRED for 10wk lease on 3/17/07 by non-smoking retired couple. (501) 351-6720.

MOTOR HOME desired for 10 week lease on 3-17-2008 by non-smoking retired couple. 501-351-6720.

WANTED: motor home desired for 10 weeks lease on 3-17-07 by non-smoking retired couple. 501-351-6720.


ITEMS FOR SALE

REGULATION SIZE Pool table, cue sticks, balls, etc. Table is in fair condition. Great for Holiday Time $120.00 501-551-0327. Rebecca.

PARAGON CONTEMPO 4 popcorn machine 4 ounce kettle retailed $460 asking $230. 850-291-8359

LOT'S OF BABY of baby stuff! Safety 1st Walker, $10. Fisher Price Bouncer-roo $30. Lots of baby clothes (boy), 3-12 months. Backseat Babychanger, never used still in box $10. (501) 987-0176

12 PIECE drum set ludwig black 7 zildian cymbals double bass pedal throne rug sticks and hardware $750 o.b.o. Call 501-626-6854.

ONE 12" KICKER solar Barrick in ported box and a 1000 4 channel infinity amp! Both are 1 1/2 years old. Great condition $450 for both obo. 940-782-5059 or 501-944-9585

BARELY used XBOX 360 for $300.00. 573-213-9787 or 501-457-7252

NEW LOUIS VUITTON belts, $100. Never been worn, still in dust bag & box. Will email pictures. 551-1544.

R/C HELI, Blade CP Pro, Good cond. W/ orig. box, 6 chnl. radio, lots of spare parts. Needs tail bar $200 OBO - 501-551-5556.

BABY EINSTEIN Exersauser $30, aquarium swing and high chair $60/$45, boy clothes 0-18 mo., LG computer monitor $20, puzzles,toys,misc. items. Please call 501-743-0231.

TOSHIBA SATELLITE notebook A105-S171 $450. Still in box, 1.5 RAM, 100 HD. Please call 501-554-4361.

40,000 BTU Heater, natural gas 3 ft. X 2 ft., push button ignition. Ventless, $125. Wall/floor mount heater, never used, $100. Hair Connections for both. Call 501-882-2142.

ALL the baby items you will need, at a low price! Good condition! Call 501-454-3330.


LAWN & FARM EQUIPMENT


AUTOS/ACCESSORIES

CADILLAC Seville, Burgundy, 1990, 171,000 miles, 4-dr, all power, good body. $1250 OBO. Carl 590-6778.

GRAND PRIX, 1997, Gtp, auto, white/ white wheels, cd, power, great car. $4200.00. Call 501-605-8946 after 5:00 P.M.

1994 Buick LeSabre Limited, Needs transmission work. Otherwise a good vehicle with all accessories. $2,000 OBO. Call 501-843-7873.

2000 Chevy Impala LS, 4D, Auto, 156,786 mi. $3700 OBO. Call Anytime 318-564-8355.

2001 HONDA Shadow Aero. Comes with saddle bags, windshield, backseat, and back rest. 18,000 miles. Runs perfect! $5000.00 OBO. Call Jon at 413-358-3117.

PCSING MUST Sell. 2005 Mitsubishi Galant GTS 4 door sedan. Dark grey, black leather interior, heated front seats. Infinity 6-cd system, 15,700 miles, Asking $16,000. TSgt. Bryan (501) 658-8911 or (501) 987-6502.

2003 KIA RIO, 1 owner, excellent condition, cold ac, great fuel mileage, professionally maintained, super clean, $5850 obo. Call 501-259-8476 or 501-231-7446.

1999 DODGE UNIQUE Conversion van 1 owner exceptional condition. 69,800 miles. asking $8,900 (501) 961-2232.

99 BUICK REGAL, maroon, grey leather seats, 71k miles, excellent condition, $5100. 501-516-6402.

1991 CHEVROLET Corvette, Hunter green, 118k, auto, many extra's. Must see. $8,000. Call 501-912-5649.

1994 BUICK LeSabre Limited. Good condition with all accessories. Needs transmission work. Asking $2000. Contact Ken Clark, 501-843-7873.

2003 DODGE Ram Truck, Silver, 2 Door, Automatic; Power; Cruise; Rims; Tinted Windows, VERY CLEAN. $10K. In NLR. Call 501-773-6153 after 3:30 pm.

1990 HONDA Prelude 2.0 SI, manual transmission, fun to drive, great gas mileage, PCSing must Sell! $1200/OBO. 425-879-8626.

2002 GOLD FORD Explorer, 4x4 3rd Seat, 79,000 miles. Must sell! $9,950, Brett 501-628-2788

2001 Yamaha TTR 125 CC dirt bike $900.00 or best offer. Call 501- 554- 4402 daytime, 501- 796- 7048 evening.

2003 FORD F-150 Crew Cab XLT, 4 dr., 5.4L V8, 2 WD, 41K miles, auto, power everything, exc. condition. $15,000 obo. Must sell. Call Jerry 501-366-1125.

CAMPERSHELL, fits short bed dodge, color match grey, headliner, light, used once, immaculate condition, $1100 obo. 843-1223 or 940-3629.

2005 TOYOTA MATRIX XR 55K, blue, loaded w/o leather, sunroof, mirror tint, clean, one owner, hwy. miles only, $13,000. Cabot 870-373-0279.

PCSING must sell, 2005 Mitsubishi Gallant GTS, 4 door sedan, dark grey, black leather interior, $14,000, 15,700 miles. 658-8911.

1999 OLDSMOBILE Alero, A/C good, mechanically sound. $1,250 obo. Call Jesse (501) 987-8150 or (501) 941-0945.


RECREATIONAL VEHICLES

1979 KX250 Dirtbike. Rebuilt Engine, New fenders, runs great. Asking $1000 o.b.o. (501) 987-0176

EL DORADO Renaissance 1988. 35 ft. motor home, custom made. Lot's of new updates. Road Ready. Maintenance records. $10,000 with dolly. (501) 983-1741.

BOMBARDIER DS 650, 2005, excellent condition, less than 50 hours, never raced. 501-213-9029.


LOTS & ACREAGE

LAND WANTED- Very serious buyer is looking for 3 to 10 Acres in Cabot School district. Land must perk have access to City water and not be in flood plain. We Prefer Country Setting with trees and no low land. Planning to build 2500++ sq. ft. home on it plus shop. Call Matt Robinson 501-412-8055.


HOUSES FOR RENT

FOR RENT: Jacksonville/ Cabot area. 2 Homes, 1.5 acres each. 4 Bedroom 3 Bath, 2600 sq. ft., $825. Also, 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, 1500 sq. ft., fireplace, 2 car garage. $750. 1 year lease, deposit $500. Call Chris 590-1667.

For Rent, Sherwood area: 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1410 sq. ft. $875 monthly plus all utilities. (501) 952-1802.

2 BEDROOM older trailer. 5 miles east of Jacksonville in Southbend area. Central Heat & Air. Stove & refrigerator furnished. No pets. $400 month, $300 deposit. (501) 944-1905

NEW HOMES FOR RENT: Cabot Schools, 3 Bedroom 2 Bath, 2 car garage, nice neighborhood. $900 deposit & $950 per month rent. Call Robin (501) 454-6639 or (501) 988-4797.

ENJOY COUNTRY Living, but only 5 minutes from back gate. 2 Bedroom, ceiling fans, all new carpet $400 month. No pets. 837-0264

JACKSONVILLE, north of LRAFB. 2 Bedroom 1 Bath, Central Heat & Air 7 miles from back gate of LRAFB. $550 month, $400 deposit. (501) 835-8657 or (501) 681-5876.

FOR RENT: nice 2 & 3 Bedroom Mobile Homes on large lots in Quiet safe park close to LRAFB. New carpet and appliances. Starting at $300 per month plus deposit. HUD accepting. Call today and get TWO WEEKS FREE RENT. (501) 835-3450

3 BEDROOM 2 Bath home on 2 acres with storage building, $800 monthly $800 deposit. Call 501-944-4135.

CLOSE TO AIRBASE- 3 Bedroom 2 Bath, living room with fireplace, eat-in kitchen, den, covered parking, fenced yard. Pets allowed with deposit. $800 month and deposit. (501) 664-0440 or (501) 529-7624.

VERY NICE remodeled, 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath. 292 Lowry Lane, Jacksonville. Eat-in kitchen, ceramic tile, washer/dryer connections, storage building, on 1 acre lot, $750 and deposit. Call John at (501) 912-7976.


HOUSES FOR SALE

Foreclosures for sale - $14,000 to $199,000 - Wholesale - Bank owned homes to public - Cabot, Jacksonville, LR, NLR, Lonoke, Sherwood, Vilonia, Pine Bluff & Searcy - www.masonandco.com - Call Mason Realty - Jacksonville (501) 985-0755.

LEASE TO OWN: New Homes, Cabot Schools, 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, 2 car garage, nice sized yards, city water & sewer. $1,000 down & $1100 per month to own your own home. Call Robin (501) 454-6639 or (501) 988-4797.

BUILDER MUST SELL!! $25,000 below appraisal! 6 Bedroom 4 bath, 6 wooded acres, country setting, $235,000. Builder to pay closing costs up to $5000. Call Brenda Burnell 501-514-2250. Pam McDowell Properties.

4 ACRES WITH A POND! Open House this Sunday, 1 p.m. until ? You've got to see this one! Beautiful 3 BD 2 BA, 1866 sq. ft. home sitting on a picturesque 4 acres. Right on the edge of town in the Cabot school district is where you will find this beauty. Built in 2003. All electric. Hardwood, ceramic, carpet, separate dining, 2 car garage. Gas log fireplace. Ph (479) 216-4360 or (501) 519-5938. 1 1/2 miles South of the Hwy 321/89 Jct. on 89 South. Turn Rt on Russell Rd. 75 Russell Road - $185,900.

Thursday, December 20, 2007

SPORTS >>Falcons Armed Forces Bowl bound

By Wayne Amann
Academy Spirit Editor

One of the major goals in the Air Force Academy’s return to football prominence was finalized Monday when the Falcons officially accepted an invitation to play in the fifth annual Bell Helicopter Armed Forces Bowl in Fort Worth, Texas, Dec. 31.

The agreement was made by Academy Athletic Director, Dr. Hans Mueh, during a teleconference call involving the bowl’s Executive Director Mr. Tom Starr, Air Force head football Coach Troy Calhoun, and media members from Colorado and Fort Worth.

The game, set for an 11:30 a.m. (CST) kickoff at Amon G. Carter Stadium, will be televised nationally on ESPN.
It marks the blusesuiters return to post season play after a four-year hiatus.

“I made a vow, if we went 6-0 at home, the first 200 tickets for the Cadet Wing were on me,” a jubilant Calhoun said at the announcement news conference.

Not only did his club go 6-0 at Falcon Stadium, but their 9-3 record was the best showing since finishing with the same mark in 2000. That year, Air Force defeated Fresno State, 37-34, in the Silicon Valley Bowl.

The New Year’s Eve tilt will be the Falcons 18th post-season appearance. They are 8-8-1 in bowl games.

“If you love teamwork, phenomenal energy and a group passionate about competing, you’re going to get that from the Air Force Falcons,” Calhoun told Starr via phone.

The Armed Forces Bowl Committee selects representative teams from the Mountain West Conference and the Pacific-10 Conference.

The PAC-10 school will be determined following that conference’s Saturday regular season finales.

“I already spread the word to my family,” Falcon senior linebacker Drew Fowler said. “So, they’re probably on the phone trying to round up the crew.”

That’s also the buzz on the Academy.

The anticipation of the “bluesuiter nation” coming out in full force at the 44,008-seat venue, the home stadium of MWC member TCU, is ballooning the game into a major Air Force pilgrimage, and for good reason.

With the numerous Air Force bases in Texas and neighboring Oklahoma, including their surrounding retiree communities within doable driving distance, the stands should have a definite blue hue. Plus the price is right for GIs.

Tickets are $40 for sideline seats and $15 for the end zone. Military veterans get half off any $40 seat while active duty members get in free thanks to the Bell Helicopter Armed Forces Bowl corporate military ticket underwriting program. Part of local ticket sales benefits designated military charities.

For tickets, call (817) 810-0012 or go online for more information at www.ArmedForcesBowl.com.

“The folks at the Armed Forces Bowl are getting a bunch of people in blue and silver that won’t sit still,” Calhoun said. “They’ll be out of their seats. The bowl will be extraordinarily proud to have this institution represented.”

Since Air Force recruits very heavily in Texas, the Lone Star State exposure figures to reap benefits well down the road.

“It’s tremendous for our program, but also great for our school,” said Calhoun whose roster sports 25 players from high school football-rich Texas.

“We’re going to play somebody talented, so we can find out what this team really has,” Calhoun said. “I’ve been extraordinarily pleased with the character and leadership of this group. Here’s one last opportunity, as a unit, to find out what we can accomplish.”

OFF DUTY LIFE >>12-21-07

Yuletide Spectacular this weekend

Yuletide Spectacular will be held at 8 p.m. tonight and 2 and 8 p.m. Saturday at Robinson Center Music Hall in Little Rock. Nothing says “Holidays” in Little Rock like the ASO’s amazing Yuletide Spectacular! The whole family will love the lavish staging, dazzling choreography, and beloved carols and songs that are at the heart of this annual celebration.
Admission: $16, $34, $45, $66, $70. For more information visit www.arkansassymphony.org.


Celebrate the new year at Little Rock Zoo

Zoo Year’s Eve is set for Dec. 31 at Little Rock Zoo. Be spotted at a one-of-a-kind New Year’s Eve celebration at the Little Rock Zoo!

This year’s Zoo Year’s Eve will have you going “wild” for cheetahs as we decorate the all-new CafĂ© Africa with cheetah spots! You’ll get cat scratch fever as you dance the night away to the funky tunes of cover band Donna Massey with Blue Eyed Soul. You’ll also enjoy delicious food and beverages and a live auction with exotic trips, one-of-a-kind jewelry, and other items.

All proceeds from this celebration will be used to build a new cheetah habitat at the Little Rock Zoo. So join us and “be spotted” at Zoo Year’s Eve 2007! Must be 21 years of age or older to attend. Admission: $50 per person before December 15; $100 per person after December 15. For more information visit www.littlerockzoo.com.


Eagle awareness topic of weekend

Eagle Awareness Weekend is Jan. 4 and 5 at Bull Shoals – White River State Park. Each year approximately 100 bald eagles migrate to the Bull Shoals area.

This weekend, enjoy activities centered around our national symbol, such as lake and river tours, guided bird walks, guest speakers, live bird demonstrations, kids’ activities, and live entertainment.

Contact the park for a detailed schedule. This is our first event to kick off the Arkansas State Parks 75th anniversary celebration for the year 2008.

Admission: Free, except lake and river cruises.


Winter hayride slated

A winter hayride and campfire is Saturday at Pinnacle Mountain State park, Little Rock. Participants should meet at the visitor center.

Enjoy a fun-filled hayride while exploring the geology of the park with an interpreter. Afterwards warm up with a roaring campfire and treats!

Advance registration and payment required. Limited seating available.

Admission: $8 adults; $6 children ages 12 and under.


Enchanted Forest runs through Dec. 30.

Sherwood’s 7th Annual Enchanted Forest and Holiday Trails of Lights runs through Dec. 30 at Sherwood Forest. The display runs from 6 to 9:30 p.m. and is a 1.5 mile drive-thru stretch of holiday lights.

Displays for the trail are provided by the Sherwood A&P Commission, businesses and individuals. New displays are added each year. Admission is free. Donations appreciated.

NEWS BRIEFS >>12-21-07

New Hampshire, Michigan election dates

New Hampshire and Michigan have scheduled their Presidential Primary elections.  New Hampshire will conduct their Presidential Primary election on Jan. 8 and Michigan will conduct their Presidential Primary election for Jan. 15. See your unit voting assistance officer for information and assistance in obtaining an absentee ballot.


Early primary elections

The following states will hold Primary elections early in 2008.  An asterisk indicates a change from the date printed in the Voting Assistance Guide: New Hampshire*, Jan. 8; Michigan*, Jan 15, South Carolina(R)*, Jan. 19; Florida and South Carolina (D)*, Jan. 29; Alabama, Arizona*, Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Missouri, New Jersey, New Mexico (D), New York, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Utah, Feb. 5; Louisiana, Feb. 9; District of Columbia*, Maryland and Virginia, Feb. 12; Massachusetts, Ohio, Rhode Island, Texas and Vermont, March 4; Puerto Rico, March 9; and Mississippi, March 11. See your unit voting assistance officer for information and assistance in obtaining an absentee ballot.


NCORP begins Phase II

Air Force officials have announced Phase II of the FY08 NCO Retraining Program targeting approximately 501 airmen (Staff Sgt., Tech. Sgt. and Master Sgt.) for retraining from Air Force Speciality Codes with overages to AFSCs with NCO shortages. The involuntary phase (Phase II) of the program began Dec. 10 and runs through Mar. 31, 2008. Contact your local Military Personnel Elements separation office (Room 100) at 987-3642 for complete details and a list of available retraining-in and retraining-out AFSCs.


Services job openings

The following nonappropriated-fund jobs are available: Bowling Center, laborer, NA-03, flexible hours and custodial worker, NA-02, Friday and Saturday nights and holidays, flexible hours. All federal NAF employees are required by Public Law 104-134 to have salary payments made by electronic funds transfer/direct deposit. For more information call 987-6440.


Duty First Sergeant Symposium Jan. 7-11

An Air Education and Training Command Additional Duty First Sergeant Symposium is set for Jan. 7-11 from 7:15 a.m to 3:30 p.m. on Lackland at the Inter-American Air Forces Academy Auditorium, Bldg. 7356. This is a unit-funded TDY designed to provide invaluable tools to prospective, current or additional duty first sergeants. Interested members must coordinate with their first sergeant or command chief prior to registration. The point of contact for the symposium is Senior Master Sgt. Scott Wilcox at DSN 945-6161. The POC to register is Master Sgt. Brian Graybeal at DSN 473-4083.


Scholarships available

LEAD Phase I Scholarships are available for active duty Air Force members for the AF Academy and Prep School. Airmen must be single, have their commander’s endorsement and not be over 23 years of age on July 1, 2008. In addition, Prep School applicants must not be over 22 as of July 1, 2008.  Other eligibility criteria include academic grades and test scores. For details, interested airmen are to call the Education Center at 987-3417 for an appointment or schedule in person at the Center in Bldg 840 Leadership Drive.


Improvements scheduled for water system

For the next six months 314th Civil Engineer Squadron is making improvements to the water system in the housing area.

This work will require one or more shutoffs of water to some residences. The contractor will be distributing leaflets to affected homes 24 hours in advance of any shutoff. Any shutoff will not last more than eight hours and will only occur after 8:30 am. Once water is restored to a residence, you may find the water to be initially discolored dsimply run the water for a few minutes from an outside faucet or your bathtub until the water is clear. If you have any questions please call Dianne Priddy in Civil Engineering Construction Management at 987-7679.

TOP STORY >>Reorganization of wing maintenance and logistics

By Gen. T. Michael Moseley
18th Chief of Staff

As Chief of Staff, I’m responsible for organizing, training, and equipping our Air Force to be the most lethal fighting organization on the planet. The squadron is the building block of the Air Force structure and must be organized for success. I believe the most effective formula is to structure our squadrons by mission, not by function. 

In a previous Scope I said we would look at reorganizing our squadrons to better prepare for combat. I’ve taken inputs from across the Air Force from crew chiefs to commanders. To prepare for combat, we train like we fight … so it only makes sense that we should also organize the way we fight.  Aircraft maintenance is a vital element of a flying squadron’s mission at home or deployed, and the maintainers that generate sorties belong in that chain of command.  Accordingly, this coming year we will begin aligning maintenance units responsible for sortie generation together with their flying squadrons in our fighter and CSAR units.  I’m still examining options to ensure we have the right organizational solutions for our remaining platforms.

Transitioning the Air Maintenance Units also presents an opportunity to create a new process-aligned structure that better supports our flying wings and combatant commanders. Therefore, simultaneously Maintenance Groups across the Air Force will deactivate and in their place, Materiel Groups will stand up. The Materiel Group will enhance logistics enterprise integration at the wing level and contain the Logistics Readiness Squadron, Aerial Port Squadrons, and the remaining maintenance squadrons.  This alignment consolidates traditional logistics functions under a single logistics leader in the wing, positions the logistics community for future transformational initiatives, and better prepares our maintenance and logistics readiness officers for senior leader positions. I’m determined to get this right to maximize our ability to generate combat air power.  Our goal with these changes will be to develop and take care of Airmen, our greatest resource, and allow them to have the same focus on the mission – whether in combat or training, whether at home station or deployed.
Fly, Fight and Win!

TOP STORY >>Dental team cares for Iraqi counterparts

By Senior Airman Terri Barriere
332nd Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs

VICTORY BASE COMPLEX, Iraq — They deployed with a purpose -- to advise and train Iraqi military dental specialists to care for their own. They’re redeploying with a reward -- the experience of lifetime.

The Airmen of 732nd Air Expeditionary Group Special Operations Iraqi Transition Team came to Iraq to provide various types of dental care and counseling -- routine cleanings, fillings, extractions, root canals, partials and teeth replacements -- for members of the Iraqi Special Forces, in addition to providing mentoring and advice to Iraqi dental specialists.
They didn’t expect their work would produce lasting relationships and forge a greater understanding between them and their Iraqi counterparts that would reach far beyond the scope of their mission.

“We’ve been told we have a great reputation with the brigade,” said Capt. Lonny Giesler, an SOITT dentist deployed from Little Rock Air Force Base, Ark. “We’ve made a lot of people happy by showing them we care about them and that helps build good relations. If they know we’re here to help, they’ll definitely be more willing to work with us in other areas.”

According to the captain, those relationships are enabling the clinic to treat an average of 12 to 16 patients a day -- more then ever before.

It has also opened the door to some unique experiences for these Airmen.

“I’ve learned so much about their lifestyle since I’ve been here,” said Staff Sgt. Anisa Hernandez, an SOITT dental technician and advisor deployed from McConnell AFB, Kan. “The things you see on TV and read about you can’t understand until you are actually here living with them.”

Sergeant Hernandez, who openly admits to being uneasy about the deployment at first, was frequently invited by the local women to have dinner with their families. She said her most memorable experience was an evening spent seated on the floor of an Iraqi home making dinner with two of the family’s younger daughters. These are the moments she said she will carry with her.

“It feels good to have earned their trust,” she said. “Knowing they look out for me now, makes me feel good. I was kind of uneasy at first being the only female, but once they understood I was here to teach them and help them, they opened up.”
The team hopes to broaden the scope of care the clinic provides. Currently, the clinic caters to Iraqi Soldiers but also handles emergency cases involving their families.

“We work with the basics, but still manage to provide a spectrum of treatment,” said Lt. Col. Robert Beck, an SOITT dental advisor deployed from Offutt AFB, Neb. “You just have to prioritize problems and time. We’d deal with the bigger problem first, then move on to the smaller things.”

As this is the first time the American dentist has worked with the Iraqi military, the colonel said other than minor technical set backs; working with the Iraqi soldiers has been rewarding.

“They make very good patients,” he said. “They are open to the treatments and take everything without complaining. They are a tougher class of patients.”

As the SOITT Airmen prepare to go back to their friends and family, they leave confident knowing they have successfully completed their mission and left the clinic better for those who will come after them.
But for some it’s bittersweet.

“I wouldn’t have traded this deployment -- this experience for the world,” Sergeant Hernandez said. “I would not have been able to experience this anywhere else.”

TOP STORY >>Deployment: Are you ready?

By 1st Lt. Jake Schillinger
373rd Training Squadron,
Detachment 4 commander

Have you ever received a phone call in the middle of the night telling you to pack your bags you’re leaving in the morning … don’t know when you’ll be back? If it were to happen today would you be ready? If not, what would you have to do to get ready?

Over my 15 years in service I found it extremely important to be prepared at all times. I’ve been on the receiving end of such a phone call on two separate occasions, and regardless if I was ready or not, I was still going.

Many times I found myself scrambling to get my personal affairs in order at the last minute or eventually handling them over the phone while deployed. However, when it came to handling physical fitness, it couldn’t be handled last minute over the phone.

When I finally got my chance to deploy as a supervisor I learned that being technically proficient is not the only qualification for deployment. You also have to maintain a higher level of personal fitness; this became glaringly evident when we sent maintainers into hostile locations to repair our stranded combat airlifters. When sending airmen in harms way we had to ensure they were capable of facing the physical challenges that may arise in some of the most remote locations in the world.

If we failed, aircraft became big gray targets for enemy ground fire and delayed the aircrew from completing their mission, which in many cases meant moving the critically injured to safety.

From time to time we take for granted our technical capabilities because we’re so good at what we do, but when our readiness is questionable we limit our ability to perform certain critical aspects of the mission. When personal health and fitness becomes an issue we have to limit the individual’s duty and possibly send them home early.

It’s a fact we’ve been engaged in combat operations for nearly 17 years and with no sight of an end in the near future. The Air Force mission has changed significantly over the years, but one thing remains the same – we’re a flexible force that must be ready to support combat operations at a moments notice.

Now ask yourself, if you were to receive that phone call telling you it’s your time to go, would you be ready? Are you ready to meet the demands of a diverse mission, not only technically, but physically too? If not, the New Year is right around the corner … make a resolution to improve your physical fitness and get ready for that call.

TOP STORY >>‘Tis the season for family, friends, rest

By Brig. Gen. Wayne Schatz
314th Airlift Wing commander

The holidays are here. It is time to enjoy time off with our families and friends. 2007 was a very busy year for Team Little Rock. This year alone, C-130s kept more than 8,100 convoys off Iraqi roads. We trained more than 1,900 students. We deployed more than 1,470 Combat Airlifters. And we kept the mission thriving on the homefront as well.

In the next two weeks, I ask that you turn your attention to your loved ones. Spend your time resting and recharging so that you’ll come back in 2008 ready to go. The next year will be even busier than the last and I need each of you refreshed and back in the game.

As you take time to enjoy being home this Christmas and New Year, please remember those who aren’t as fortunate. Today, there are 700 Team Little Rock Combat Airlifters deployed around the world. More than one child on The Rock is wishing more than anything that they could have mommy or daddy home on Christmas morning. Remember their families and, when possible, include them in your activities.

Team Little Rock has always been about families and that’s true now more than ever. As Kim, Wayne, Marissa and I celebrate this holiday season, I will once again reflect on how proud I am to serve this great nation with the best airlifters the world has seen. I am looking forward to seeing everyone back safe to start 2008 off right!

Happy holidays from my family to yours. Combat Airlift!

CLASSIFIEDS >>12-21-07

ANNOUNCEMENTS

THE DROP ZONE CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT will take ads by phone from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday 982-9421, or you may mail your ad to 404 Graham Rd., Jacksonville, AR 72078. You may also email them to dropzoneclassifieds@arkansasleader.com Deadline to advertise in Friday issue is 5 p.m. Tuesday.

THRIFT SHOP open to the public. MWF, 10 am to 2 pm, first Saturday monthly. Great bargains. All revenues used to support mission. Volunteers and donations welcome. Jacksonville Care Channel, 201 Elm, 982-4647.

Air Force Sergeants Association Chapter 658 General Meeting Open to everyone. 13 Dec, 11:00 AM, Hanger 1080 - arrive early to order lunch! As a reminder, we will be drawing for two free memberships to any SrA or below and any SSgt/TSgt who is not already a member! See everyone there!


HELP WANTED

Cosmetologist with clientele. Full service Salon & Day Spa needs you! Excellent variety of services. Terrific atmosphere. In a good high traffic Jacksonville location. Don't miss this! Let's talk! (501) 253-0192.

Businesses for sale: Profitable 1 person operation, 15 years in business, no special skills, NLR, some owner financing, easy to operate. Tom Redican, agent (501) 908-5178.

MAINTENANCE GENERAL Laborer's wanted for large mobile home park in Jacksonville. Pay ranges from $7.00 an hour to $12 BOE. Basic tools required. Must pass drug test. Call (501) 835-3450.

CUSTOMER SERVICE- F/T position @ local dealership. Greets cust., prep. sales contracts, perform test drives and process credit apps. Great cust. svc., valid DL, and clean driving record req. We offer comp. pay., bens., & friendly work place. Apply online or visit us today. www.car-mart.com CAR-MART. 1802 E. Broadway, No. Little Rock, AR. 72114. (501) 378-7704. EEOE Employer


SERVICES

ENG Lending: The Future of Finance: Over 100 years of home purchasing & refinancing. Contact Lynell Hopson, our VA specialist in Little Rock 501-687-4569 or email -lhopson@englending.com or www.Englending.com


HORSES

HORSES: LUCKY Acres Boarding Stable, TLC for your horse, box stalls and paddocks, clean pastures, indoor and outdoor arenas, riding instruction and training program. Dressage our specialty. (501) 988-2458.*


PETS

COCKATIELS. Hand fed babies. 4 months old. $45 each. 501-985-1304.

THREE DOGS- 1 lab mix -6 months old, 1 boxer mix- 1 1/2 years old, 1 great Dane - 10 months old. All dogs are great with my 3 kids and all other dogs. Moving all free to good homes. All don't have to go together but must go. Call anytime- 501-796-3160.

FREE to Good Home. 8 weeks old 2 male 1/2 Boston Terrier, 1/2 Golden Retriever Puppies. Both Brindle in color. Call 501-231-2895.

KENNEL For Sale, Chain linked, 10'L X 10'W X 6'H with roofing system, only used for two weeks $200, Ward, (225) 485-1167 or (501) 843-0745.

LAB/PIT PUPPIES. Will be 6 wks old as of Dec. 23. 5 M and 3 F. All with pit features. Will make great Christmas gifts. All must go. Call Lauri @ 501-804-0394 leave message.

FREE KITTEN - 3 mo. old orange and white male kitten. Super playful and cute. For pic's email koger143@hotmail.com. Call 501-605-3613. Ward


FURNITURE

REFRIGERATOR KENMORE, Newer side-by-side, perfect condition. Moving-must sell! $450 Cash (501) 612-3521.

WASHER & DRYER, newer Kenmore deluxe, large capacity, perfect condition. Moving-must sell! $385 cash for both. (501) 612-3521.

ASHLEY COUCH, sage, like new $400 . 314-623-9122.

ELECTRIC DRYER, $50. 314-623-9122.

FOR SALE: Couch, small entertainment center, grill with utensils, wooden TV trays & play station w/games. Call 914-309-2626.

TRADITIONAL couch, chair & ottoman in neutral color,ticking type fabric. Good condition. $350 982-1881/920-5356

3-piece Oak Entertainment Center with 32" color TV; like new $700.00. Call: 501-827-0955 or 501-827-6251.

Dining Table, solid oak with 6 chairs; like new $500.00. Call: 501-827-0955 or 501-882-6251.

COUCH, HUNTER green with matching swivel rocker, leather lounger/recliner and leather swivel rocker. Excellent condition; all for $325.00. Call: 501-827-0955 or 501-882-6251.

ENTERTAINMENT CENTER- Large, beautiful, w/real wood, glass, lights, $175.00 OBO. Call 501-416-1984.

WASHER AND DRYER for sale. Work well. White. $150 for both. Call 412-1111

SOFA BED no arm rests light and dark grey flowered. Material exc. cond. $100 501-835-8978

TV 25" Magnavox table model excellent cond. $110 501-835-8978.

SELLING SONY 52" 1080 HD projection TV w/2 yr. warranty orig. price $1900 asking $1200. 501-454-7835.

BEAUTIFUL BROY Hill dining room set, $400 obo. includes table, chairs, buffet/hutch, protective cover, leaves, etc. Call 501-834-1027 for pictures. simon.fam@hotmail.com

LARGE, BEAUTIFUL, w/real wood, glass, lights, etc entertainment center, $175.00 OBO. Call 501-416-1984.

BLACK LEATHER Sectional Sofa, less than a year old, excellent condition, $700 obo. 501-425-6670

BLACK LEATHER sectional sofa with 2 glass top end tables & 2 lamps sold separately $400 obo (501) 772-5471.

EUROPEAN COUCH. Starter bedroom set (5 pieces). Small Entertainment Center. Dual Voltage Stereo w/5 CD Changer. Randy (501) 259-3993.

PCSING TV Phillips 27" Silver $150 obo. Also other miscellaneous items. 347-218-3154.

FREE PULL-OUT Couch. If you can haul it, you can have it. 507-696-1797.

WASHER and Dryer for sale, 2 years old, $175 for dryer and $225 for washer, or $350 for both. Call 325-280-1754 or 501-987-5079.

GE washer and dryer, 2 years old, $350 for both or $175 for the dryer and $225 for the washer. Call 325-280-1754 or 501-987-5079. Cabot.

TOSHIBA 57 inch wide screen projection tv. HD TV ready. PIP. Excellent condition. 3 yrs. old. Orig. $2,200, sacrifice for $700. 240-5816

ALMOST NEW large micro suede living room set. Carmel/ tan in color includes couch, loveseat and ottoman. $1,800 obo. Call 501-772-8538 ask for Josh.

CHERRY OAK crib, changing table,$150.00. 8x10 oak entertainment, $400.00. White,microfiber sofa,180.00. Baby swing, $35.00. Stroller, Carseat, $35.00.

LEATHER COUCH & Loveseat, 4 years old, good condition, paid $2600, asking $400 obo. 501-628-8037

THREE CUSHION couch, good condition $30, coffee table, side table and magazine rack. Started to sand down, $20. You pick it up. 501-681-0823.

ENTERTAINMENT CENTER $20, you pick it up. 501-681-0823.

NON-WORKING refrigerator, $20, you pick it up. 501-681-0823.

LEATHER COUCH & Loveseat, 4 years old, good condition, paid $2600, asking $400 obo. Home Phone: 501-628-8037


WANTED

MOTORHOME DESIRED for 10wk lease on 3/17/07 by non-smoking retired couple. (501) 351-6720.

MOTOR HOME desired for 10 week lease on 3-17-2008 by non-smoking retired couple. 501-351-6720.

WANTED: motor home desired for 10 weeks lease on 3-17-07 by non-smoking retired couple. 501-351-6720.


ITEMS FOR SALE

BEHRINGER 500 WATT Powered Mixer, 2 (15") Yamaha Speakers, Digi Tech Vocal 300 Processor & cables 766-0201.

Total Gym SupraPro $200 firm. New, used several times (no box). Medical condition can't use. Jacksonville. 501-425-6665.

SONY VAIO 15" CRT MONITOR w/built in speakers and microphone. Model # CPD100VS. Excellent condition. Still have box and manual. Paid $550 asking $20. Call afternoon 982-1882.

FENCE: 280+ feet of chain link fence all poles and hardware included $250. Michael at Phone # 247-3654.

TOSHIBA Satellite notebook A105-S171 $400 still in box accessories included.Please Call 501-554-4361.

BIG SCREEN T.V. - Just like new, floorstanding 52'' RCA, PIP, built in t.v. schedule. There is a spot for 2 different components can hooked up, S-video connection. $500 O.B.O. 501-983-8030

REGULATION SIZE Pool table, cue sticks, balls, etc. Table is in fair condition. Great for Holiday Time $120.00 501-551-0327. Rebecca.

PARAGON CONTEMPO 4 popcorn machine 4 ounce kettle retailed $460 asking $230. 850-291-8359

LOT'S OF BABY of baby stuff! Safety 1st Walker, $10. Fisher Price Bouncer-roo $30. Lots of baby clothes (boy), 3-12 months. Backseat Babychanger, never used still in box $10. (501) 987-0176

12 PIECE drum set ludwig black 7 zildian cymbals double bass pedal throne rug sticks and hardware $750 o.b.o. Call 501-626-6854.

ONE 12" KICKER solar Barrick in ported box and a 1000 4 channel infinity amp! Both are 1 1/2 years old. Great condition $450 for both obo. 940-782-5059 or 501-944-9585

BARELY used XBOX 360 for $300.00. 573-213-9787 or 501-457-7252

NEW LOUIS VUITTON belts, $100. Never been worn, still in dust bag & box. Will email pictures. 551-1544.

R/C HELI, Blade CP Pro, Good cond. W/ orig. box, 6 chnl. radio, lots of spare parts. Needs tail bar $200 OBO - 501-551-5556.

BABY EINSTEIN Exersauser $30, aquarium swing and high chair $60/$45, boy clothes 0-18 mo., LG computer monitor $20, puzzles,toys,misc. items. Please call 501-743-0231.

TOSHIBA SATELLITE notebook A105-S171 $450. Still in box, 1.5 RAM, 100 HD. Please call 501-554-4361.


AUTOS/ACCESSORIES

PCSING MUST Sell! 2005 Mitsubishi Galant GTS 4 door sedan, dark grey, black leather interior, heated front seats, infinity 6 disk CD system, 15700 miles, take over payments $16000. Tech Sgt. Bryan 501-658-8911 or 501-987-6502.

22" chrome rims with tires with 85% tread, 5 lug-universal, asking $1000 obo. Call 326-1180 or 317-2107.

2000 model Z..R.X - 1100, great shape black & gold good bike, must sale, $3200.00. O.B.O. 501-628-2476

2006 VOLVO S40 2.4i - 19K miles, leather, sun/moon roof, spoiler, heated seats, 6-disc changer, premium sound syst. Very good condition. Asking $21,000. Call (501)517-8514.

CADILLAC Seville, Burgundy, 1990, 171,000 miles, 4-dr, all power, good body. $1250 OBO. Carl 590-6778.

GRAND PRIX, 1997, Gtp, auto, white/ white wheels, cd, power, great car. $4200.00. Call 501-605-8946 after 5:00 P.M.

1994 Buick LeSabre Limited, Needs transmission work. Otherwise a good vehicle with all accessories. $2,000 OBO. Call 501-843-7873.

2000 Chevy Impala LS, 4D, Auto, 156,786 mi. $3700 OBO. Call Anytime 318-564-8355.

2001 HONDA Shadow Aero. Comes with saddle bags, windshield, backseat, and back rest. 18,000 miles. Runs perfect! $5000.00 OBO. Call Jon at 413-358-3117.

PCSING MUST Sell. 2005 Mitsubishi Galant GTS 4 door sedan. Dark grey, black leather interior, heated front seats. Infinity 6-cd system, 15,700 miles, Asking $16,000. TSgt. Bryan (501) 658-8911 or (501) 987-6502.

2003 KIA RIO, 1 owner, excellent condition, cold ac, great fuel mileage, professionally maintained, super clean, $5850 obo. Call 501-259-8476 or 501-231-7446.

1999 DODGE UNIQUE Conversion van 1 owner exceptional condition. 69,800 miles. asking $8,900 (501) 961-2232.

99 BUICK REGAL, maroon, grey leather seats, 71k miles, excellent condition, $5100. 501-516-6402.

1991 CHEVROLET Corvette, Hunter green, 118k, auto, many extra's. Must see. $8,000. Call 501-912-5649.

1994 BUICK LeSabre Limited. Good condition with all accessories. Needs transmission work. Asking $2000. Contact Ken Clark, 501-843-7873.

2003 DODGE Ram Truck, Silver, 2 Door, Automatic; Power; Cruise; Rims; Tinted Windows, VERY CLEAN. $10K. In NLR. Call 501-773-6153 after 3:30 pm.

1990 HONDA Prelude 2.0 SI, manual transmission, fun to drive, great gas mileage, PCSing must Sell! $1200/OBO. 425-879-8626.

2002 GOLD FORD Explorer, 4x4 3rd Seat, 79,000 miles. Must sell! $9,950, Brett 501-628-2788

2001 Yamaha TTR 125 CC dirt bike $900.00 or best offer. Call 501- 554- 4402 daytime, 501- 796- 7048 evening.

2003 FORD F-150 Crew Cab XLT, 4 dr., 5.4L V8, 2 WD, 41K miles, auto, power everything, exc. condition. $16,000 obo. Must sell. Call Jerry 501-366-1125.

CAMPERSHELL, fits short bed dodge, color match grey, headliner, light, used once, immaculate condition, $1100 obo. 843-1223 or 940-3629.

2005 TOYOTA MATRIX XR 55K, blue, loaded w/o leather, sunroof, mirror tint, clean, one owner, hwy. miles only, $13,000. Cabot 870-373-0279.


RECREATIONAL VEHICLES

1989 HONDA VTR 250 Sport Motorcycle. Great condition. 67mpg. $1800 obo. Call for details 816-210-7079.

1978 Honda CX500 Motorcycle, New Tires, New Battery, New Carb Rebuild, excellent condition with windshield. $1500 OBO. Call 501-743-6575.

2001 Yamaha TTR 125 CC dirt bike $900.00 or best offer. Call 501 554 4402.

Honda Goldwing 2006- GL1800 Premium Audio Package, 25,000 miles, lots of added chrome and extras. MUST SEE* $14,800.00. Call 501-258-8216 or 501-416-4368.

2005 Honda Foreman 500 4X2. It is in great condition. I am asking $3,000, OBO for it. 501-350-2906.

1979 KX250 Dirtbike. Rebuilt Engine, New fenders, runs great. Asking $1000 o.b.o. (501) 987-0176

EL DORADO Renaissance 1988. 35 ft. motor home, custom made. Lot's of new updates. Road Ready. Maintenance records. $10,000 with dolly. (501) 983-1741.

BOMBARDIER DS 650, 2005, excellent condition, less than 50 hours, never raced. 501-213-9029.


HOUSES FOR RENT

FOR RENT: Jacksonville/ Cabot area. 2 Homes, 1.5 acres each. 4 Bedroom 3 Bath, 2600 sq. ft., $825. Also, 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, 1500 sq. ft., fireplace, 2 car garage. $750. 1 year lease, deposit $500. Call Chris 590-1667.

Newer 2 Bedroom 1 Bath duplex. Quiet country road in North Pulaski area. All appliances including washer & dryer. $550 month, $275 deposit. Some pets considered. (501) 413-9876.

For Rent, Sherwood area: 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1410 sq. ft. $875 monthly plus all utilities. (501) 952-1802.

For Rent: $530 Monthly or lease to purchase 14X70 Mobile on 1.5 acres. Newly remodeled 2 bedroom 2 full bath with open floor plan. Cabot schools, with privacy and lots of room. (501) 605-7200.

2 BEDROOM older trailer. 5 miles east of Jacksonville in Southbend area. Central Heat & Air. Stove & refrigerator furnished. No pets. $400 month, $300 deposit. (501) 944-1905

JACKSONVILLE: NICE updated 3 Bedroom 2 Bath, 1 car garage, wood burning fireplace, hardwood/carpet/ceramic floors, furnished kitchen, fenced backyard and shed. $750 month and $500 deposit. Pets additional deposit required. (501) 247-7506.

NEW HOMES FOR RENT: Cabot Schools, 3 Bedroom 2 Bath, 2 car garage, nice neighborhood. $900 deposit & $950 per month rent. Call Robin (501) 454-6639 or (501) 988-4797.

ENJOY COUNTRY Living, but only 5 minutes from back gate. 2 Bedroom, ceiling fans, all new carpet $400 month. No pets. 837-0264

JACKSONVILLE, north of LRAFB. 2 Bedroom 1 Bath, Central Heat & Air 7 miles from back gate of LRAFB. $550 month, $400 deposit. (501) 835-8657 or (501) 681-5876.

FOR RENT: nice 2 & 3 Bedroom Mobile Homes on large lots in Quiet safe park close to LRAFB. New carpet and appliances. Starting at $300 per month plus deposit. HUD accepting. Call today and get TWO WEEKS FREE RENT. (501) 835-3450


HOUSES FOR SALE

Foreclosures for sale - $14,000 to $199,000 - Wholesale - Bank owned homes to public - Cabot, Jacksonville, LR, NLR, Lonoke, Sherwood, Vilonia, Pine Bluff & Searcy - www.masonandco.com - Call Mason Realty - Jacksonville (501) 985-0755.

LEASE TO OWN: New Homes, Cabot Schools, 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, 2 car garage, nice sized yards, city water & sewer. $1,000 down & $1100 per month to own your own home. Call Robin (501) 454-6639 or (501) 988-4797.

CABOT- 218 Rodney Guthrie, 1014 sq. ft., 3 Bedroom 1.5 Bath, big fenced backyard, storage building, new landscaping. End of quiet cul-de-sac. Great for family with kids. Excellent condition. $88,000 (501) 516-6402.

Thursday, December 13, 2007

SPORTS >>Flag football tournament held

Story and photos by Staff Sgt. Juan Torres
314th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

The 2007 Little Rock Air Force Base flag football tournament kicked off Monday as eight teams came head to head to see who would be crowned champion.

The 463 AG and the 189 AW kicked off the tournament Monday at 6 p.m. The 189 AW’s defense struggled to slow the 463 AG’s superior offense. The 463 AG ended the 189 AW’s tournament hopes with a score of 28-12.

AMXS #2 and 53 AS were next on the field to prove who the better team was. While AMXS #2 started the game off with an early lead, the 53 AS quickly made up the deficit in the second half. The tournament ended quickly for the 53 AS after a controversial play late in the second half handed the ball back AMXS #2. AMXS #2 defeated the 53 AS 38-28.

The 314 MXS #1 and the 314 CES kicked off Tuesday’s double header at 6 p.m. Even with their commander on the sideline for support, the 314 CES was no match for the 314 MXS #1’s superior teamwork. The 314 MXS #1 easily defeated the 314 CES 33-7.

The 314 LRS and the 90th RRC finished of Tuesday’s games with the most heated games in the tournament. After the 314 LRS quarterback was removed from the game over an argument with the referee, Bryan Wails stepped up and sealed the 90th RRC’s fate. 314 LRS finished off the 90th RRC 28-14

On Wednesday, the 463 AG went on to face the AMXS #2 at 6 p.m., while the 314 MXS #1 faced the 314 LRS at 7 p.m. to see who would go on to the tournament finals on Thursday at 6 p.m.

Check back next week for the tournament wrap-up.

OFF DUTY LIFE >>12-14-07

Rep presents 'Hello, Dolly!'

“Hello, Dolly!” will run through Jan. 6 at the Arkansas Repertory Theatre, 601 Main Street, Little Rock. “Hello, Dolly!,” is based on a book by Michael Stewart, Music & Lyrics by Jerry Herman and is based on the play The Matchmaker by Thornton Wilder. Winner of 10 Tony Awards including Best Musical, “Hello Dolly!” is the irresistible story of the matchmaker who arrives in Yonkers, New York with marriage on her mind and a recipe for love in her pocket. This grand musical comedy glitters with happy songs, shines with heartfelt love scenes, and comes alive with the personality of one of the most fabulous characters on the musical stage...Dolly Levi! Admission: $30-$50. For more information visit www.therep.org.


Enchanted Forest runs through Dec. 30

Sherwood’s 7th Annual Enchanted Forest and Holiday Trails of Lights runs through Dec. 30 at Sherwood Forest. The display runs from 6 to 9:30 p.m. and is a 1.5 mile drive-thru stretch of holiday lights. Displays for the trail are provided by the Sherwood A&P Commission, businesses and individuals. New displays are added each year. Admission is free. Donations appreciated.


Donations due Sunday

The Jacksonville Museum of Military History and Mt. Tabor Methodist Church are sponsoring Christmas Care for Veterans, and collecting items the two organizations will be giving to the Little Rock Veterans Retirement Home. The groups are asking for donations of new sweat suits, slippers, white cotton t-shirts, pajama pants, socks or flannel pajamas of all different sizes (including large and X-large) no later than Sunday. Items may be dropped off during regular business hours at the Jacksonville Museum of Military History, 100 Veterans Circle, Jacksonville or Mt. Tabor Methodist Church, Hwy. 89 South in Cabot. Please do not purchase any toiletries. For more information, contact the museum at 241-1943 or the church at 843-1084.


Singers to host Madrigal Feast

The Arkansas State University-Beebe Singers will celebrate the coming holiday season with the color and pageantry of their Yuletide Madrigal Feast today and Saturday at 7 p.m. at University Café on the Beebe campus, located at 610 N. Pecan St. Tickets at $17.50 and must be purchased in advance, as seating is limited. Call the ticket office at 882-8351 or stop the ASU-Beebe Student Center for tickets.

NEWS BRIEFS >>12-14-07

Legal office closes

The 314th Airlift Wing Legal Office will close at noon Wednesday. The office will reopen at 8 a.m. Thursday. If you have an emergency, contact the command post at 987-3200 and request the on-call attorney.
Scholarships available

LEAD Phase I Scholarships are available for active duty Air Force members for the AF Academy and Prep School. Airmen must be single, have their commander’s endorsement and not be over 23 years of age on July 1, 2008. In addition, Prep School applicants must not be over 22 as of July 1, 2008.  Other eligibility criteria include academic grades and test scores. For details, interested airmen are to call the Education Center at 987-3417 for an appointment or schedule in person at the Center in Bldg 840 Leadership Drive.


Improvements scheduled for water system

For the next six months 314th Civil Engineer Squadron is making improvements to the water system in the housing area.

This work will require one or more shutoffs of water to some residences. The contractor will be distributing leaflets to affected homes 24 hours in advance of any shutoff. Any shutoff will not last more than eight hours and will only occur after 8:30 am. Once water is restored to a residence you may find the water to be initially discolored — simply run the water for a few minutes from an outside faucet or your bathtub until the water is clear. If you have any questions please call Dianne Priddy in Civil Engineering Construction Management at 987-7679.


Registration in progress

College registration is in progress now for on-base and online January through March 2008 university courses. Contact the on-base offices for ASU-Beebe, Park University, Southern Illinois, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Webster University or University of Arkansas-Fayetteville at the Little Rock Education Center, Bldg 840 Leadership Drive or call 987-3417 for general information.


NCORP begins Phase II

Air Force officials have announced pPhase II of the FY08 NCO Retraining Program targeting approximately 501 airmen (staff sgt., tech. sgt. and master sgt.) for retraining from Air Force Speciality Codes with overages to AFSCs with NCO shortages. The involuntary phase (Phase II) of the program began Dec. 10 and runs though Mar. 31, 2008. Contact your local Military Personnal Elements separation office (Room 100) at 987-3642 for complete details and a list of available retraining-in and retraining-out AFSCs.


NAF openings

The following nonappropriated-fund jobs are available: Bowling Center, laborer, NA-03, flexible hours; custodial worker, NA-02, Friday and Saturday nights and holidays flexible hours and Skills Center, wood worker, NA-08, flexible hours. All federal NAF employees are required by Public Law 104-134 to have salary payments made by electronic funds transfer/direct deposit. For more information call 987-6440.


LRS to hold forum

The 314th Logistics Readiness Squadron’s Customer Service Center with be holding a Customer Service Forum at 9 a.m. Dec. 17 at Bldg 450 in the Procedues Conference room. The forum will address various supply and logistics issues. All supply and logistics representatives are welcome to attend. Contact the 314 LRS/Customer Service at 731-7837 or 731-3034 to reserve a seat.


Pre-Move survey’s

When you PCS, the moving company is required to do a pre-move survey prior to your pack and pickup date. After visiting the Traffic Management Office and receiving a counseling, the carrier will call to set up an appointment for the survey. Pre-move surveys are conducted so the carrier knows what type of packing material to bring to your home to ensure your property is properly protected during transit. Nothing needs to be done on your part, just make sure you're home, and let the carrier know what specific items they will be moving. For questions or concerns regarding your pre move survey, please call the Traffic Management Flight at 987-3582.

CLASSIFIEDS >>12-14-07

ANNOUNCEMENTS

THE DROP ZONE CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT will take ads by phone from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday 982-9421, or you may mail your ad to 404 Graham Rd., Jacksonville, AR 72078. You may also email them to dropzoneclassifieds@arkansasleader.com Deadline to advertise in Friday issue is 5 p.m. Tuesday.

THRIFT SHOP open to the public. MWF, 10 am to 2 pm, first Saturday monthly. Great bargains. All revenues used to support mission. Volunteers and donations welcome. Jacksonville Care Channel, 201 Elm, 982-4647.

Air Force Sergeants Association Chapter 658 General Meeting Open to everyone. 13 Dec, 11:00 AM, Hanger 1080 - arrive early to order lunch! As a reminder, we will be drawing for two free memberships to any SrA or below and any SSgt/TSgt who is not already a member! See everyone there!


YARD SALES

GARAGE SALE Saturday Dec. 15 7am-1pm. 101 Parker St. in Jax furniture, household items, clothes, etc.


HELP WANTED

Cosmetologist with clientele. Full service Salon & Day Spa needs you! Excellent variety of services. Terrific atmosphere. In a good high traffic Jacksonville location. Don't miss this! Let's talk! (501) 253-0192.

Businesses for sale: Profitable 1 person operation, 15 years in business, no special skills, NLR, some owner financing, easy to operate. Tom Redican, agent (501) 908-5178.

Roma Italian restaurant is now hiring full time and part time wait staff and servers. Must be able to pass drug screen. Experience preferred but not required. Applications should apply in person only at 2650 John Harden Drive Suite Q in Jacksonville.


SERVICES

ENG Lending: The Future of Finance: Over 100 years of home purchasing & refinancing. Contact Lynell Hopson, our VA specialist in Little Rock 501-687-4569 or email -lhopson@englending.com or www.Englending.com

Visiting base December 31 to January 13. Willing to babysit, clean house, yard work, etc. Please contact Alyssa (20 years old) at (850) 375-9088.


HORSES

HORSES: LUCKY Acres Boarding Stable, TLC for your horse, box stalls and paddocks, clean pastures, indoor and outdoor arenas, riding instruction and training program. Dressage our specialty. (501) 988-2458.*


PETS

COCKATIELS. Hand fed babies. 4 months old. $45 each. 501-985-1304.

Christmas Puppies - West Highland Terriers AKC/ACA Registered. Males & Females. Born 10 November. Parents on Premises. Nicest in Arkansas. Reserve yours Today. (501) 730-3770.

LABRADOODLE, Golden Retriever, females, house trained, spayed, $50 ea. Good dogs need GOOD inside home, son allergic. Dog lovers call 240-6515. These are NOT problem dogs. Any questions, call 240-6515.

THREE DOGS- 1 lab mix -6 months old, 1 boxer mix- 1 1/2 years old, 1 great Dane - 10 months old. All dogs are great with my 3 kids and all other dogs. Moving all free to good homes. All don't have to go together but must go. Call anytime- 501-796-3160.

FREE to Good Home. 8 weeks old 2 male 1/2 Boston Terrier, 1/2 Golden Retriever Puppies. Both Brindle in color. Call 501-231-2895.

KENNEL For Sale, Chain linked, 10'L X 10'W X 6'H with roofing system, only used for two weeks $200, Ward, (225) 485-1167 or (501) 843-0745.


FURNITURE

REFRIGERATOR KENMORE, Newer side-by-side, perfect condition. Moving-must sell! $450 Cash (501) 612-3521.

WASHER & DRYER, newer Kenmore deluxe, large capacity, perfect condition. Moving-must sell! $385 cash for both. (501) 612-3521.

ASHLEY COUCH, sage, like new $400 . 314-623-9122.

ELECTRIC DRYER, $50. 314-623-9122.

FOR SALE: Couch, small entertainment center, grill with utensils, wooden TV trays & play station w/games. Call 914-309-2626.

TRADITIONAL couch, chair & ottoman in neutral color,ticking type fabric. Good condition. $350 982-1881/920-5356

3-piece Oak Entertainment Center with 32" color TV; like new $700.00. Call: 501-827-0955 or 501-827-6251.

Dining Table, solid oak with 6 chairs; like new $500.00. Call: 501-827-0955 or 501-882-6251.

COUCH, HUNTER green with matching swivel rocker, leather lounger/recliner and leather swivel rocker. Excellent condition; all for $325.00. Call: 501-827-0955 or 501-882-6251.

ENTERTAINMENT CENTER- Large, beautiful, w/real wood, glass, lights, $175.00 OBO. Call 501-416-1984.

WASHER AND DRYER for sale. Work well. White. $150 for both. Call 412-1111

SOFA BED no arm rests light and dark grey flowered. Material exc. cond. $100 501-835-8978

TV 25" Magnavox table model excellent cond. $110 501-835-8978.

SELLING SONY 52" 1080 HD projection TV w/2 yr. warranty orig. price $1900 asking $1200. 501-454-7835.

BEAUTIFUL BROY Hill dining room set, $400 obo. includes table, chairs, buffet/hutch, protective cover, leaves, etc. Call 501-834-1027 for pictures. simon.fam@hotmail.com

LARGE, BEAUTIFUL, w/real wood, glass, lights, etc entertainment center, $175.00 OBO. Call 501-416-1984.

BLACK LEATHER Sectional Sofa, less than a year old, excellent condition, $700 obo. 501-425-6670

BLACK LEATHER sectional sofa with 2 glass top end tables & 2 lamps sold separately $400 obo (501) 772-5471.

EUROPEAN COUCH. Starter bedroom set (5 pieces). Small Entertainment Center. Dual Voltage Stereo w/5 CD Changer. Randy (501) 259-3993.

PCSING TV Phillips 27" Silver $150 obo. Also other miscellaneous items. 347-218-3154.

FREE PULL-OUT Couch. If you can haul it, you can have it. 507-696-1797.

WASHER and Dryer for sale, 2 years old, $175 for dryer and $225 for washer, or $350 for both. Call 325-280-1754 or 501-987-5079.

GE washer and dryer, 2 years old, $350 for both or $175 for the dryer and $225 for the washer. Call 325-280-1754 or 501-987-5079. Cabot.


WANTED

MOTORHOME DESIRED for 10wk lease on 3/17/07 by non-smoking retired couple. (501) 351-6720.

MOTOR HOME desired for 10 week lease on 3-17-2008 by non-smoking retired couple. 501-351-6720.


ITEMS FOR SALE

BEHRINGER 500 WATT Powered Mixer, 2 (15") Yamaha Speakers, Digi Tech Vocal 300 Processor & cables 766-0201.

Total Gym SupraPro $200 firm. New, used several times (no box). Medical condition can't use. Jacksonville. 501-425-6665.

SONY VAIO 15" CRT MONITOR w/built in speakers and microphone. Model # CPD100VS. Excellent condition. Still have box and manual. Paid $550 asking $20. Call afternoon 982-1882.

FENCE: 280+ feet of chain link fence all poles and hardware included $250. Michael at Phone # 247-3654.

TOSHIBA Satellite notebook A105-S171 $400 still in box accessories included.Please Call 501-554-4361.

BIG SCREEN T.V. - Just like new, floorstanding 52'' RCA, PIP, built in t.v. schedule. There is a spot for 2 different components can hooked up, S-video connection. $500 O.B.O. 501-983-8030

REGULATION SIZE Pool table, cue sticks, balls, etc. Table is in fair condition. Great for Holiday Time $120.00 501-551-0327. Rebecca.

PARAGON CONTEMPO 4 popcorn machine 4 ounce kettle retailed $460 asking $230. 850-291-8359

LOT'S OF BABY of baby stuff! Safety 1st Walker, $10. Fisher Price Bouncer-roo $30. Lots of baby clothes (boy), 3-12 months. Backseat Babychanger, never used still in box $10. (501) 987-0176

12 PIECE drum set ludwig black 7 zildian cymbals double bass pedal throne rug sticks and hardware $750 o.b.o. Call 501-626-6854.

ONE 12" KICKER solar Barrick in ported box and a 1000 4 channel infinity amp! Both are 1 1/2 years old. Great condition $450 for both obo. 940-782-5059 or 501-944-9585

BARELY used XBOX 360 for $300.00. 573-213-9787 or 501-457-7252


AUTOS/ACCESSORIES

PCSING MUST Sell! 2005 Mitsubishi Galant GTS 4 door sedan, dark grey, black leather interior, heated front seats, infinity 6 disk CD system, 15700 miles, take over payments $16000. Tech Sgt. Bryan 501-658-8911 or 501-987-6502.

22" chrome rims with tires with 85% tread, 5 lug-universal, asking $1000 obo. Call 326-1180 or 317-2107.

2000 model Z..R.X - 1100, great shape black & gold good bike, must sale, $3200.00. O.B.O. 501-628-2476

2006 VOLVO S40 2.4i - 19K miles, leather, sun/moon roof, spoiler, heated seats, 6-disc changer, premium sound syst. Very good condition. Asking $21,000. Call (501)517-8514.

CADILLAC Seville, Burgundy, 1990, 171,000 miles, 4-dr, all power, good body. $1250 OBO. Carl 590-6778.

GRAND PRIX, 1997, Gtp, auto, white/ white wheels, cd, power, great car. $4200.00. Call 501-605-8946 after 5:00 P.M.

1994 Buick LeSabre Limited, Needs transmission work. Otherwise a good vehicle with all accessories. $2,000 OBO. Call 501-843-7873.

2000 Chevy Impala LS, 4D, Auto, 156,786 mi. $3700 OBO. Call Anytime 318-564-8355.

2001 HONDA Shadow Aero. Comes with saddle bags, windshield, backseat, and back rest. 18,000 miles. Runs perfect! $5000.00 OBO. Call Jon at 413-358-3117.

PCSING MUST Sell. 2005 Mitsubishi Galant GTS 4 door sedan. Dark grey, black leather interior, heated front seats. Infinity 6-cd system, 15,700 miles, Asking $16,000. TSgt. Bryan (501) 658-8911 or (501) 987-6502.

2003 KIA RIO, 1 owner, excellent condition, cold ac, great fuel mileage, professionally maintained, super clean, $5850 obo. Call 501-259-8476 or 501-231-7446.

1999 DODGE UNIQUE Conversion van 1 owner exceptional condition. 69,800 miles. asking $8,900 (501) 961-2232.

99 BUICK REGAL, maroon, grey leather seats, 71k miles, excellent condition, $5100. 501-516-6402.

1991 CHEVROLET Corvette, Hunter green, 118k, auto, many extra's. Must see. $8,000. Call 501-912-5649.

1994 BUICK LeSabre Limited. Good condition with all accessories. Needs transmission work. Asking $2000. Contact Ken Clark, 501-843-7873.

2003 DODGE Ram Truck, Silver, 2 Door, Automatic; Power; Cruise; Rims; Tinted Windows, VERY CLEAN. $10K. In NLR. Call 501-773-6153 after 3:30 pm.

1990 HONDA Prelude 2.0 SI, manual transmission, fun to drive, great gas mileage, PCSing must Sell! $1200/OBO. 425-879-8626.


RECREATIONAL VEHICLES

1989 HONDA VTR 250 Sport Motorcycle. Great condition. 67mpg. $1800 obo. Call for details 816-210-7079.

1978 Honda CX500 Motorcycle, New Tires, New Battery, New Carb Rebuild, excellent condition with windshield. $1500 OBO. Call 501-743-6575.

2001 Yamaha TTR 125 CC dirt bike $900.00 or best offer. Call 501 554 4402.

Honda Goldwing 2006- GL1800 Premium Audio Package, 25,000 miles, lots of added chrome and extras. MUST SEE* $14,800.00. Call 501-258-8216 or 501-416-4368.

2005 Honda Foreman 500 4X2. It is in great condition. I am asking $3,000, OBO for it. 501-350-2906.

1979 KX250 Dirtbike. Rebuilt Engine, New fenders, runs great. Asking $1000 o.b.o. (501) 987-0176


HOUSES FOR RENT

New Homes for Rent: Cabot Schools, 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2 car garage, nice neighborhood. Deposit $900 & $950 per month rent. Call Robin (501) 454-6639 or (501) 988-4797.

Available now!! 3 bedroom 2 bath, Cabot Schools, 1 acre lot, double car garage. No smoking, no inside pets. $1000 month, $1000 deposit. Call (501) 416-5159 or (501) 231-9996.

Jacksonville - 1809 Craft Street - 3 bedroom 1 bath 4 plex. Completely remodeled. 7 minutes from LRAFB front gate. Refrigerator, dishwasher, stove - less than 1 year old. Washer/dryer connections. New paint, tile, carpet & doors. $550 month, $550 deposit. No Pets. (501) 749-6963 or (501) 352-1502.

FOR RENT: Jacksonville/ Cabot area. 2 Homes, 1.5 acres each. 4 Bedroom 3 Bath, 2600 sq. ft., $825. Also, 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, 1500 sq. ft., fireplace, 2 car garage. $750. 1 year lease, deposit $500. Call Chris 590-1667.

FOR RENT 3 Bed 2 Bath, almost new home in Jacksonville $800.00 per month and $400.00 deposit, references required, call 501-833-8379.

Newer 2 Bedroom 1 Bath duplex. Quiet country road in North Pulaski area. All appliances including washer & dryer. $550 month, $275 deposit. Some pets considered. (501) 413-9876.

Vilonia - Quail Hollow - brick, 1900 sq. ft., 3/2/2, breakfast bar, oak cabinets, gas fireplace, marble vanities, jetted tub, privacy fence, 12X20 shop. $1050 month. (501) 941-1996.

Houses for Rent: Jacksonville/Gravel Ridge area, privacy fenced - 3 bedroom 1 bath $650 month + $300 deposit, 2 bedroom 1 bath $600 month + $300 deposit. No Smoking, 1 year lease, pets allowed with deposit. (501) 833-9951.

Very nice remodeled 3 bedroom 2 bath, 292 Lowry Lane, Jacksonville. Eat-in Kitchen, ceramic tile, washer/dryer connections, storage building, on 1 acre lot, $750 + deposit. Call John (501) 912-7976.

Enjoy Country Living but only 5 minutes from back gate. 2 bedroom, ceiling fans, all new carpet. $400 month. No pets. 837-0264.

For Rent, Sherwood area: 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1410 sq. ft. $875 monthly plus all utilities. (501) 952-1802.

For Rent: Extra Nice 3 Bedroom 2 Bath 1800 sq. ft., 2 car garage. Approximately 7 miles from Air Base. Sits on secluded 2 1/2 acres. Lots of privacy. Call (501) 425-2008.

For Rent: $530 Monthly or lease to purchase 14X70 Mobile on 1.5 acres. Newly remodeled 2 bedroom 2 full bath with open floor plan. Cabot schools, with privacy and lots of room. (501) 605-7200.


HOUSES FOR SALE

Lease to own: New Homes, Cabot Schools, 3 bedroom, 2 baths, 2 car garage, nice sized yards, city water & sewer, $1000 down & 1100 per month to own your own home. Call Robin (501) 454-6639 or (501) 988-4797.

Foreclosures for sale - $14,000 to $199,000 - Wholesale - Bank owned homes to public - Cabot, Jacksonville, LR, NLR, Lonoke, Sherwood, Vilonia, Pine Bluff & Searcy - www.masonandco.com - Call Mason Realty - Jacksonville (501) 985-0755.

Cabot - 218 Rodney Gutherie - 1014 sq. ft. 3 bedroom, 1.5 bath, big fenced backyard, storage building, new landscaping. End of quiet cul-de-sac. Great for family with kids. Excellent condition. $92,000. (501) 516-6402.

Cabot - Magness Creek subdivision - Great 3 bedroom, 2 bath ranch home, brick, 1698 sq. ft. Great schools. Great Neighborhood. $154,000. Call (501) 416-5822.

Vilonia Schools - 3BR/2BA 1775 sf. corner lot. Large kitchen, walk-in closets, new floor covering, and two car garage. Reduced to $142,500. Call Jill at Vilonia Realty (501) 472-6158 or (501) 796-8530.

Newly remodeled 3 Bedroom 2 Bath, close to LRAFB, new roof, jacuzzi tub, hardwood floors $100,000 obo. Contact (501) 247-4556.

TOP STORY >>Service allows Airmen, friends, family to connect

By Staff Sgt. J.G. Buzanowski
Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (AFPN) — Friends and family members can keep in touch with Airmen anywhere in the world through an instant messaging program available through the Air Force Portal.

Every Airman is permitted up to five guest users through the Friends and Family Instant Messaging service, which works “24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year,” said Lt. Col. David Gindhart, the Global Combat Support Systems program director.

“It’s an important morale tool for deployed Airmen, their friends and family, allowing them to stay connected, no matter where in the world they are,” Colonel Gindhart said. “All Airmen need to do is create an account for their loved ones and they can chat whenever they have access to the Web without jeopardizing Air Force network security.”

To register a guest, follow these steps:

Log into the Air Force Portal

In the upper right hand corner, click on the My Profile tab

Then click on the Manage FFIM tab

Click on Add an Account

Fill out the required information (name, e-mail address) and read the user policy

Click on Register

Two e-mails will then be sent automatically to the friend or family member’s address.

The first contains the individual’s username; the second will be a temporary password.

The guest then has 24 hours to log into the portal and create their own unique password, which they’ll use from that point on.

More than 20,000 guests are registered in the FFIM program, and more than 1,000 guests per week use the service, Colonel Gindhart said.

“One Airman’s mother wrote in, thanking us for providing this service,” Colonel Gindhart said. “While her son was deployed, she was able to chat with him online, giving her peace of mind that her son was safe. I have a hundred other quotes just like this — we are honored to provide this service, especially during holiday deployments.”

In addition, Colonel Gindhart said the GCSS staff hopes to expand the Air Force’s IM service and offer features comparable with commercial IM providers, like photo sharing and even video teleconferencing.

TOP STORY >>Combat leadership course takes PME to next level

By Senior Airman Terri Barriere
332nd Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs

BALAD AIR BASE, Iraq — What does an Air Force supply noncommissioned officer and an Army infantry NCO have in common? What can someone who spends their days troubleshooting computers learn from someone who spends their days on convoys?

The answer is leadership. Regardless of the branch of service or specialized career field, one thing that remains constant is the need for good leadership and the ability to lead through tough situations.

To aid with these critical leadership skills, the Top Three Council here recently hosted an NCO combat-leadership seminar to help junior noncommissioned officers further their professional development.

“The direct focus of the course is combat missions at Balad, different from the universally covered professional development topics,” said Master Sgt. April Spiczka, 332nd Expeditionary Mission Support Group Detachment 1 first sergeant and a Top Three Council member.

The five-hour course focused on combat environment issues such situational awareness and performing combat missions outside the wire. The seminar offered a unique joint-service perspective and diversity by way of Army and Navy guest speakers.

Quick-reaction force team, special operations, pilots, special agents, a chief’s panel and first sergeant’s panel were highlights of the day. Brig. Gen. Burt Field, 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Paul Wheeler, 332nd AEW command chief also addressed the group.

The combat leadership course is held at least once in every Air and Space Expeditionary Force rotation; however, this time the council decided to punch it up. The course was evaluated and revamped to ensure no part of the curriculum duplicated home-station professional military education.

“This isn’t your traditional PME,” said Master Sgt. Michael Cole, 777th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron first sergeant and a Top Three Council member. “This class is tailored to the environment we’re in. It’s what’s going on here and outside the wire, and showing you how it relates to your job.”

Staff Sgt. Kevin Cain, a 332nd EMSG Det. 1 operations desk technician deployed from F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyo., said he thought the seminar did a good job of offering different points of views.

“Overall, I got a better sense of accomplishment from knowing how I fall into things,” he said. “We were able to hear from people who actually lived through situations I was directly involved in, and I’m going to be able to take that experience home and apply it there.”
For others, the best part about the seminar was the insight gained from hearing from those with unique experiences. Tech. Sgt. Janet Croswell, 332nd EMSG Det. 1, operations desk NCO in charge deployed from the Missouri Air National Guard, said the mentoring opportunities with the chiefs and first sergeants will help her become a better NCO.

“I learned a lot from hearing how they handled the problems and issues throughout the years,” she said. “Experience is looking you right in the face with this course. There’s no reading out of books, just real-life experience.”

The next class for deployed Airmen is tentatively scheduled for December. For more information contact unit Top Three representatives.

TOP STORY >>The only guaranteed 'No' is...

By Lt. Col. Richard E. Sloop Jr.
314th Civil Engineer Squadron commander

Don’t ask the question. I am repeatedly amazed by how hard a concept this is to many of our Airmen in today’s Air Force. We have fallen on the excuse “there’s no money, no manpower, no time” to the point that it is easier to not ask the question rather than go through the process of identifying and advocating our needs.

Sure, resources are tight, requirements are many, and there are a lot of rules to be followed, but I have not seen the Air Force ignore a valid requirement in my 21 years of service – unless, of course, no one ever asked for it.

Before you start laughing out loud and asking when I fell off the turnip truck, you have to realize that how you ask is just as important as who and when. I am reminded of my first week as a civil engineer operations flight commander when I asked one of my shop foremen what his greatest needs were.

The 14-year senior NCO went on to describe, in excruciating detail, specific problems in each building down to what component needed replacing, and what system was complete and total junk. When he finished his list, I asked a simple question: “How have you identified these problems?” His response shocked me a bit – “I put a bug in several peoples’ ear.”

Sure enough, this individual had not put in a single work request that would have identified a valid facility requirement. Was this his fault? No, because he had been trained not to ask, and not to expect results when he did. His expectations had been set so low; he thought he knew the answer. There’s no money, so there’s no sense in asking.

I’d love to tell you that we were able to get these systems fixed during my tenure as an ops chief, but I can’t. However, we did get the requirements on the wing unfunded list and at least got the requirement some attention. At least my successor had the requirement identified and was able to take up the battle.

Which brings me to my next point: Once you’ve asked the question, filled out the paperwork and coordinated it beyond excess; have you continued to be the requirement’s advocate?

To borrow a quote from my boss, “A task passed is NOT a task complete.” The act of submitting a requirements document does not mean the battle is over. The requirement must have an advocate, someone who will stand on the mountain top, bang a fist on a desk and constantly shout out the dire need for whatever you’ve asked for. We have a common misconception that turning in a civil engineer work request, a supply requisition document, a training request or whatever piece of paper or electronic submission is all we need to do to establish a need.

The duties of an advocate do not transfer to the supply clerk, administrative assistant or service call technician when the paperwork is turned in. Those duties remain with you and your organization, which means you may have to get your supervisor, flight chief, commander or major command functional involved to help advocate and justify your need. My final thought is for those of us who provide services and fulfill requirements. Have we truly empowered our people on the front lines?

Does the person who can say “no” to a request have the ability to say “yes” to that same request? Is it easier to find an Air Force instruction paragraph that supports a “no” than it is to get a waiver that allows a “yes?” We owe it to our customers to give them every piece of information that will allow them to advocate for their requirement — even if it requires a little more homework and research.

The Air Force is the envy of the other services because we have been successful at advocating for and obtaining funding for our requirements. Our toolboxes are stocked, our facilities are in relatively good shape and our equipment is well maintained. This is so due to the dedication and persistence of our Airmen.

So, encourage our Airmen to take ownership, ask the question, bang on a desk or two, follow up to the end result and ensure we continue to be the most powerful and effective Air Force in the world.

TOP STORY >>Responsible drinking comes with rewards

By Brig. Gen. Wayne Schatz
314th Airlift Wing commander

In July, I brought together many of our key Combat Airlifters to develop a set of campaign plans. These plans were designed to raise awareness on some high-interest items on Little Rock Air Force Base. Plans include deployment preparation, family housing, suicide prevention and healthy dorm living, among others. The goal is to identify ways to improve quality of life and mission capability for Team Little Rock.  

One of the areas that must remain at the top of our focus is the responsible use of alcohol. I know it’s not realistic to tell Airmen not to drink. If you’re of age, you have the legal right to consume alcohol. But as an Airman, you also have a responsibility to drink responsibly. But responsible alcohol use is a broad term that applies to everyone whether they drink or not.

First, check yourself. Make sure you’re doing what you know to be right. If you’re not 21, don’t drink. If you drink, don’t drive. If you’re with a group, ensure you have a plan to get everyone home safely. Don’t drink past your limit – which only you know. No one should drink to the point of passing out, throwing up or being unable to take care of themselves. It isn’t smart and it isn’t safe.

Next, be a good wingman. If you see someone who appears to be under 21 with a drink in hand, speak up. If you are at a party and notice someone who seems to have reached their limit, approach them. And always make sure the people you are with have a designated driver. If you are the designated driver, do not drink. It’s as simple as that. Drunk driving is a criminal act and one I have zero tolerance for.

We are getting very close to another string of 60 days without a DUI. Our Combat Airlifters have done an outstanding job of reaching this milestone yet again. As promised, if we make it to the 60 day mark, the plan is a day off. Right now, we’re looking at Jan. 18 as a Team Little Rock down day. This will allow for a four day weekend in January.

But we can’t let our guard down as we approach the holidays. It will be a great accomplishment if we make it 60 days without a DUI and earn a down day in January, but it would be a terrible tragedy if we lose someone after reaching that goal due to a DUI over the holidays…which are traditionally a peak time for alcohol incidents. Please take the time to enjoy the holidays with your friends and family, but also stay safe and celebrate responsibly.

I’m very proud of the job you all have done to reduce alcohol related instances. We are seeing definite results. But you can’t stop here. Drinking may be part of our culture, but responsible drinking needs to be a way of life. It is my goal that one day, we won’t need to set rewards for being responsible because those actions will have become second nature to us all.Combat Airlift!

Thursday, December 6, 2007

TOP STORY >>Grading wing is mission of balanced scorecard

By Maj. George Buch
314th Airlift Wing Exercise and Plans
Commander’s Senior Staff coordinator

This article follows Air Education and Training Command’s article on balanced scorecard for the command published in The Drop Zone recently. Here we will continue to explain what balanced scorecard represents and is used for, for our wing at Little Rock Air Force Base. As Gen. William R. Looney III, AETC commander stated, “the balanced scorecard process – is a management tool for our near-term strategy of recruiting, training and educating.”

The balanced scorecard starts with our strategy map which indicates what is important to our wing mission and senior leadership. Our strategy focuses on the next two to three years for our wing. Brig. Gen. Wayne Schatz, 314th Airlift Wing commander, has stated our mission is to train and deploy the world’s best C-130 and C-21 combat airlifters. This is what we do and why we are here. The strategy map is broken down into three parts: mission impact, operational drivers, and develop and support our people.

Starting from the bottom up, developing and supporting our people is the foundation for our wing to complete our mission. Many of these objectives are aligned with AETC and 19th Air Force. These objectives concern everything from professional development for our Airmen to taking care of our families with the right support and resources. The second part of the map deals with operational drivers which are much more specific to our wing and Little Rock AFB. These operational drivers are broken up into three sets of objectives: training, teamwork and readiness. Each area is specific to the 314th AW whether it is simulator training for C-130s, working with our community partners or preparing our support Airmen to deploy and fight against terrorism.

The last and top section is why our wing exists, and that is our mission impact. Our main objectives here are to deliver the best, on-time C-130/C-21 aircrew possible and to deliver mission-ready combat airlifters. Everything underneath the mission impact supports these three objectives. In order to make sure the wing is meeting its mission, a strategy review is conducted with the senior leadership, headed by General Schatz. Every two months the wing leadership will have a strategy review to observe and analyze these objectives. Measures were developed for each objective area to help senior leaders determine the progress in each area. This program is very fluid, so if a specific measure is not meeting the needs of the objective then it can be changed to better reflect the wing’s progress in that area. As our strategy reviews become more developed we will incorporate Air Force Smart Operations 21 into our process. We wll try to use AFSO21 events when wing leadership identifies areas where we need focus and fix issues.

The whole idea of balanced scorecard is to make the wing better and more efficient at accomplishing combat airlift missions.

TEXAS HOLD'EM >> 12-07-07

Texas Hold'em

(Current as of Nov. 28)

Rachelle Simonof 39
Peter Urbach 39
Tim Thomas 36
Hank Varner 35
Aaron Pohl 29
Dave Castro 24
Robert Lamkin 18
Jerry Kallam 18
Ryan Milner 15
Will Gradeless 13
Dave Rice 13


(Current as of Nov. 30)

Peter Urbach 35
Hank Varner 34
Tim Thomas 32
Angeline Prather 31
Doug Lingo 24
Drew Sayson 23
Aaron Pohl 22
Dave Rice 17
Rachelle Simonof 17
Bill Hodges 17

SPORTS >>December 7, 2007

Are you a leader?

The Little Rock Air Force Base Sports and Fitness Center is looking for certified personal trainers and aerobics instructors. Those interested in teaching can contact Staff Sgt. Amy Peterson or Tech. Sgt. Tashon Velez at 987-7716.


Coaches, players wanted

The Little Rock Air Force Base Sports and Fitness Center staff is currently recruiting players and coaches for the Little Rock Air Force Base traveling Varsity Sports Program. Call Tech. Sgt. Tashon Velez at 987-7716 for more information.


Fitness center closure

The Fitness Center’s basketball and racquetball courts and indoor track will close from 6 p.m. Dec. 14 until 9 a.m. Dec. 15 for the 314th Maintenance Squadron holiday party. Call 987-7716 for details.


'New You,' new year

The Little Rock Air Force Base Sports and Fitness Center will host a Boot Camp Fitness Class Jan. 9 at 6:30 a.m. on the basketball court. Active duty, family members and civilians are welcome. The class will be taught by Master Sgt. Angela McDonald. Register at the fitness center front counter, or call 987-7716.


Airman takes third in hockey tourney

By Staff Sgt. Beth Orlen
314th Airlift Wing Public Affairs


It only took one local game with members of the Minnesota Air National Guard hockey team to send one Little Rock Air Force Base member to place third in this year’s Armed Services Hockey Tournament held in Las Vegas Nov. 8-11.

Airman 1st Class Shawn Stene, a 314th Operations Support Squadron member, was asked to join the members of the Guard team after playing against them during a training session here.

“The guys from the Minnesota Guard unit called me about a week before the tournament from Germany and asked if I could go,” he said. “I worked it out with my supervisor, and a week later I was on a plane to Minnesota to catch a ride with (the rest of the team) to Las Vegas.”

In addition to their team, 15 other teams from across the U.S. played in the four division tournament.

“The 5th annual Armed Services Hockey Classic was a huge success!” according to Russ Hanson, Armed Services Hockey chairman. “This year we decided to open the field to fire and police teams. Entering were the Vancouver Centurions Police and the local Las Vegas Guns and Hoses teams. Subsequently these two teams took home a championship banner. The Centurions knocked down the four-time Desert Storm (D1) division champions, the Hanscom Eagles then the Guns and Hoses team took the Noble Eagle (D2) division. After five years of playing in the tournament the Travis Jets finally clinched a championship in the Red Flag (D3) division in a 4-3 sudden death overtime win.

The Davis-Monthan Defenders in only their second appearance took home the Enduring Freedom (D4) division in another exciting overtime victory. Each team was guaranteed four games and the championship round afforded a fifth game for those eight lucky and tired teams.”

And while Airman Stene and his teammates didn’t take home a champion title, experiencing the competition firsthand was the best part, he said.

“The best thing about the tournament was playing against good teams from around the country and just having fun,” he said.
As for his future in hockey, Airman Stene has a dream.

“I’ve thought a lot about this … is I thought of maybe going back to a division 1 college and try playing hockey for them,” he said. “…However I don’t think my wife will let me go back to college full time now. What I’ll probably end up doing is re-enlisting and (take a base of preference base) somewhere up north so I can play again in a men’s league or coach a youth hockey team.”

And plans are already in the works for next year’s event.

“The dates will remain the same as this proved to be a good time for our event,” said Mr. Hanson. So good that the committee is hoping the teams will continue to come.

OFF DUTY LIFE >>12-07-07

'A Christmas Carol' to be presented

Center on the Square will present “A Christmas Carol” through Dec. 22 at 111 W. Arch, Searcy. Tremble with Scrooge at the sight of Marley’s ghost and rejoice with him when he sees the errors of his ways, feel sorry for Bob Cratchit and Tiny Tim, and take comfort from the good spirits of Christmas who make everything right in the end. Center on the Square Players make this classic story their Christmas gift to audiences. Admission is $27 regular; $24 senior.


Care for Veterans drive under way

The Jacksonville Museum of Military History and Mt. Tabor Methodist Church present Christmas Care for Veterans, a collection of items the two organizations will be giving to the Little Rock Veterans Retirement Home. So people are asked to bring only new sweat suits, slippers, white cotton T-shirts, pajama pants, socks or flannel pajamas of all different sizes (large and x-large, too) no later than Dec. 16. The items are to be dropped off during regular business hours to the Jacksonville Museum of Military History, 100 Veterans Circle, Jacksonville or Mt. Tabor Methodist Church, Hwy. 89 South in Cabot.
Please do not purchase any toiletries. For more information contact the museum at (501) 241-1943 or the church at (501) 843-1084.


Pictures with Santa for pets

The Jacksonville animal shelter will be offering Christmas pictures from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8. Bring your animals and take family photos with Santa. Kids and families are welcome. Call 982-2916 for more information.


Museum hosting space adventures

Space Adventures are happening at the Museum of Discovery through Jan. 6. Few topics capture people’s imagination as well as today’s space exploration and its companion space adventures from books, television and movies. Some might say that today’s space explorations are the outcome of stretching our imaginations with Flash Gordon or Luke Skywalker. Relive these adventures of the past and encourage intergenerational sharing as children and adults explore their favorite Space Adventures of today and yesterday. Admission: $8 adults, $7 children (1-12) and seniors (65+). The museum is located at 500 President Clinton Ave., Suite 150.


Enchanted forest open

The 7th Annual Enchanted Forest and Holiday Trails of Lights from 6 to 9:30 p.m. through Dec. 30 at Sherwood Forest. A spectacular 1.5 mile drive-thru stretch of holiday lights. Displays for the trail are provided by the Sherwood A&P Commission, businesses and individuals. New displays are added each year.
Admission: Free; donations appreciated

NEWS BRIEFS >>12-07-07

Improvements to water system scheduled

For the next six months 314th Civil Engineer Squadron is making improvements to the water system in the housing area. This work will require one or more shutoffs of water to some residences. The contractor will be distributing leaflets to affected homes 24 hours in advance of any shutoff. Any shutoff will not last more than eight hours and will only occur after 8:30 am. Once water is restored to a residence you may find the water to be initially discolored — simply run the water for a few minutes from an outside faucet or your bathtub until the water is clear. If you have any questions please call Dianne Priddy in Civil Engineering Construction Management at 987-7679.


Spouses' Club hosting luncheon Thursday

The Little Rock Air Force Base Spouses’ Club is hosting a holiday luncheon on Dec. 13 at the Little Rock Air Force Base Chapel Annex. All spouses of Active Duty, Guard, Reserve, Retiree and DoD employees are invited. Social and childcare begin at 10:30 a.m. and the function at 11 a.m. A potluck lunch will be provided with a $2 donation. Bring a holiday item for the drawing and receive 10 free tickets; additional tickets will be available for purchase at the event. Melissa Matus from the Junior Auxiliary of Jacksonville will be our guest speaker. Children’s playgroup will be available at the TCAC for $4 per child. For more information and to RSVP please visit www.littlerockspouses.com or contact Rachel Kreps at 765-0316. RSVP is required by 5 p.m. Monday.


Registration in progress

College registration is in progress now for on-base and on-line January thorugh March 2008 university courses. Contact the on-base offices for ASU-Beebe, Park University, Southern Illinois, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Webster University or University of Arkansas-Fayetteville at the Little Rock Education Center, Bldg 840 Leadership Drive or call 987-3417 for general information.


Briefing rescheduled

The Thursday Commissioning briefing has been rescheduled for 1 p.m. Jan. 17, 2008. All 2008 AECP, ROTC and OTS applicants who have not attended this briefing at Little Rock Air Force Base in 2007, need to attend this briefing.  Call 987-3417 to sign-up for the briefing.


NAF openings

The following nonappropriated-fund jobs are available: Bowling Center, laborer, NA-03, flexible hours; custodial worker, NA-02, Friday and Saturday nights and holidays flexible hours; cook, NA-04, early mornings, flexible hours and Skills Center, recreation assistant, NF-II, engraving, regular hours, wood worker, NA-08, flexible hours. All federal NAF employees are required by Public Law 104-134 to have salary payments made by electronic funds transfer/direct deposit. For more information call 987-6440.


Toy drive on-going

The 189th Airlift Wing’s annual Christmas toy drive benefiting Arkansas Children’s Hospital is underway. Collection boxes are located in each 189th AW building and unit. For a list of recommended items, go to www.archildrens.org/pdf/volunteer/Wish_List.pdf.


Special duty assignment team briefing

The Air Education and Training Command special duty assignment team will conduct a briefing at 1 p.m. Dec. 11 in the base theater. E-7’s with less than 17 years of service, E-3’s with at least 24 months of service and spouses are highly encouraged to attend. To obtain a copy of the AETC special duty application or for additional information on career opportunities, contact Master Sgt. William Holtfort at 987-5928.


LRS to hold forum

The 314 Logistics Readiness Squadron's Customer Service Center with be holding a Customer Service Forum at 9 a.m. Dec. 17 at Bldg 450 in the Procedues Conference room. The forum will address various supply and logistics issues. All supply and logistics representatives are welcome to attend. Contact the 314 LRS/Customer Service at 731-7837 or 731-3034 to reserve a seat.