Thursday, February 22, 2007

OFF DUTY LIFE >>02-23-07

FISHING FOR A CURE
Saturday

Fishing for a Cure is set for 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 24 at Lake Dardanelle State Park, 100 State Park Dr., Russellville. Lake Dardanelle’s 34,000 acres has a fishery which is extremely healthy and varied. Fishermen from all over the world come here and are continually surprised not only by the size of their catch, but by how Lake Dardanelle keeps the fishery so strong.
See some of these prize-winning fish measured and weighed at our one-of-a-kind fishing tournament weigh-in pavilion, and get a look at some of the monsters you could reel in next.

Admission if free for spectators. For more information call 479-967-5516.


SPECIAL FALCONRY
Presentation Saturday

Eagles Over Harbor is set for 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 24 and Sunday, Feb. 25 at Mountain Harbor Resort and Spa in Mt. Ida.
As part of Mountain Harbor Resort and Spa’s Eagles Over Harbor event, Rusty Scarborough will host a special falconry presentation at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 24 with his bird of prey, Rogue, a Harris Hawk. The programs will be held at Mountain Harbor’s Marina and are free and open to the public.

For more information visit the Web site www.mountainharborresort.com.


TOURS CONTINUE THROUGH MARCH 1 at BLANCHARD

Dripstone Trail tours continue through March 1 at Blanchard Springs Cavern near Mountain View. Join us for a 1-hour walking tour through the fantastic upper level of Blanchard Springs Caverns, in constant 58 degree temperature. Tour two huge rooms filled with awesome sparkling calcite formations.

Begin at the Visitor Center with an educational movie and exhibit hall to clarify the underground wonders. Open year round; tours offered periodically, from 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays November thru March. Call (870) 757-2211 or (888) 757-2246 for tour times, rates, or reservations. Admission: $10, adult; $5, ages 6-15; $5, ages 62+ with Golden Age Passport.


LITTLE ROCK MARATHON SET FOR MARCH

The Little Rock Marathon is set for March 2-3. Little Rock Marathon and companion races are a running and walking tour through the scenic streets of Arkansas’ capital city. There will be a varity of events so there is a race for every pace. Come enjoy our lively brand of southern hospitality. Held March 2-3 in the Downtown areas of Little Rock and North Little Rock.
For details contact Stacy Majors at 501-278-7200 email – stacymajors@aol.com or contact Gina Marchese Pharis at 501-918-5321 email – gmarchese@littlerock.org.

TEXAS HOLD'EM>>Feb. 23, 2007

TEXAS HOLD'EM

(Updated as of Wednesday, Feb. 14)

Rachelle Simonof 38
Hank Varner 36
Peter Urbach 32
Katie Gradeless 22
Will Gradeless 21
Drew Sayson 20
Dave Castro 18
Phillip Cantrell 17
Jerry Kallam 15
Dean Amarosa 12
Dave Rice 11
Matthew McCarthy 10
Justin Cooks 9
Bobby Martinez 9
Dave Watson 6
Nathan Dennis 4
Scott Molaison 3
Kristen Frazer 2
James Spencer 1
Josh Harper 1
Kim Spencer 1


(Updated as of Friday, Feb. 16)

Dave Rice 27
Hank Varner 23
Peter Urbach 23
Katie Gradeless 22
Doug Lingo 20
Rachelle Simonof 20
Aaron Pohl 18
Justin Cooks 17
Brandon Quesenberry 16
Jerry Kallam 13
Mike Smith 13
Kenny Ridgeway 11
Will Gradeless 11
Bill Wiles 10
Drew Sayson 10
Woody McEwen 10
Dean Amarosa 8
James Hendel 8
Kerya Reyes 6
Anna Murray 5
Fred Graves 5
Dave Castro 2
Phillip Cantrall 2
Brandi Ablay 1
Rick Sloop 1
Scott Molaison 1
AJ Schramm 1

SPORTS>>AF sweeps Kansas Wesleyan in doubleheader

By NICK ARSENIAK
U.S. Air Force Academy Assistant Sports Information Director

U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. (AFNEWS) — Timely hitting and strong pitching for the second-straight day carried Air Force to a doubleheader sweep of Kansas Wesleyan (1-6) Feb. 19 at Falcon Field. The Falcons took game one 8-2 and game two 5-4 and improved to 4-4 on the season.

The three-game series sweep was the Falcons’ first since 2003, when they swept Hastings. In game one, the Falcons utilized a five-run second inning and some strong pitching to cruise to an 8-2 win. Falcon starter Jake Petro and reliever Michael Ruvolo combined to hold the Coyotes to two runs on eight hits in the seven inning win.

Petro improved to 2-1 on the season, scattering six hits and two walks, while striking out two in five innings. Ruvolo tossed two scoreless innings while striking out one to close out the game. Air Force had nine hits and stole seven bases in game one. Geno Salazar went 2-for-2 with a double, triple and three RBI. Jason Griggs continued his hot hitting with a 2-for-4 game and Matt Alexander connected for his second home run of the season.

After Kansas Wesleyan scored a run in the top of the second, the Falcons came right back with a five run second to take the lead for good. Alexander homered to lead off the inning. Ben Ausbun then singled in Erol Kelter for the second run. Geno Salazar later doubled in K.J. Randhawa and Shea Hall for the third and fourth runs. Salazar then scored on Griggs’ single for the fifth run.

Air Force added two more runs in the fifth and one in the sixth. In game two, timely hitting in the fourth and sixth innings gave the Falcons just enough to hold off the pesky Coyotes in a 5-4 win that took just one hour and 18 minutes to play the seven inning game. Trailing 1-0 Karl Bolt launched another monster home run, a two-run shot to left, putting Air Force ahead 2-1 in the fourth.

The Falcons added three more insurance runs in the sixth, which proved to be the difference as Kansas Wesleyan rallied with three runs in the top of the seventh. With a runner on and one out in the sixth, the Coyotes decided to intentionally walk Bolt after his homer in the fourth. Matt Alexander, the next batter, made Kansas Wesleyan pay with a triple off the fence in right to score Bolt and Griggs. Ben Ausbun followed up with a single to left center to knock in Alexander and put Air Force ahead 5-1.

Falcon starter Mitch Brown turned in a solid effort, going six strong innings for the win. Brown improved to 1-1 on the season, striking out six batters and allowing just one run on three hits. Brown was completely dominant in stretches, pitching three 1-2-3 innings. Kansas Wesleyan made it interesting in the seventh scoring three runs off of Falcon reliever David Miller.
After putting up a run on a double play, Guy McGriff hit a two-run homer to left to make it a 5-4 game. Miller then induced pinch hitter Ronny Romo to ground out to Randhawa to end the game.

The Falcons return to action this weekend at the 2007 Service Academies Spring Classic. They take on Navy Feb. 23 and 24 and Akron on Feb. 25.

COMMENTARY>> One child can make a huge difference

By TECH SGT. JOSEPH CRAWFORD
374th Communications Squadron

YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan (AFNEWS) — I just witnessed something that moved me deeply and I wanted to share this feeling. I hope you do not mind reading this. The other day I was coming home from work carrying a lot of stuff — physical training uniform, shoes, school books and my laptop — when the music for the National Anthem sounded.

I was almost inside the apartment where I live. All I had to do was make a run for it and within seconds, I could have been inside. Any other day, I would have been very happy to stop on a dime and face the music, but I had a long drive from Camp Zama (I commute from Yokota Air Base to Zama each day, to and from work, by choice, for those people who don’t know) and I was tired. I just wanted to make it inside.

Then I thought about the people serving in deployed locations who can’t be with their love ones; I thought about those who died serving our great nation; I also thought of the fact that it angered me when others do what I was feeling like doing.
When those thoughts came to me, I stopped, turned around and walked back to where I was when I first heard the music.
I freed one of my hands and faced the music and rendered a salute during the Japanese National Anthem.

What followed is what moved me and is the point of this story. There were some children playing in the playground as the National Anthem was being played. One boy saw what I did and stopped playing and faced the music, as I was doing, and put his hand over his heart and stood silently. This really touched me, yet, it didn’t end there.

Another child saw what this boy did and he stopped playing and stood in silence. When that boy stopped, a little girl who was playing stopped and then all of a sudden every child who was playing stopped and paid respect and stood in silence until the National Anthem was over. What makes this so amazing is how the positive actions of one child spread throughout the playground. Yet, there were still adults driving and walking around. Can you believe that?

The children were setting an awesome example and some of the adults didn’t even notice. As the music played, I felt a great sense of pride and got all choked up inside. In my 23 years of service, I had never seen anything like what I witnessed that day. After the National Anthem, I picked up my stuff and headed into the apartment, and the first boy who stopped playing followed me in. I so much wanted to thank him and all the kids who paid respect to the National Anthem, but I was so choked up and emotional that I could not say a word.

I just smiled at the boy and nodded my head. I briefly talked to him while in the elevator and still, I was too emotional to express what I felt. I would love to thank the parents of those kids for bringing up such wonderful respectful children.
Because of their example, I know that their parents must be excellent military citizens.

That small example made me reflect on the fact that as military members we have a heavy role in the world: we have the role of serving our great nation and we also have a role of being excellent members of society.

People are watching us, especially young ones, so it is important that we not only be the best military members that we can, but we need to be the best Americans we can — all the time (even though it is hard). Let me end this here because I feel my emotions getting the best of me.

CLASSIFIEDS >> 02-23-07

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.

MEN’S BASEBALL league base team. Looking for players. Contact George DiBello. work 743-4815, home 605-9272. Practice starts Saturday, 3 March 2/16

ADVANCED BASKETBALL tryouts on 24 FEB 2007 at 1:00 pm. The tryout will be at Searcy High School. (Searcy Arkansas) This will be a traveling team.

AA MEETING “Brown Bag Lunch” LRAFB Chapel Annex, downstairs, room #106. 1200-1300 hrs M-F. For more info, call 888-842-7555*. 3/02


YARD SALES

PCSING All must go. 113 Delaware Circle, Friday-Sunday, 2/23-2/25, 9 am-1pm. Whirlpool Washer & Dryer, deep freezer, 3 fish tanks, kitchen itmes, A/C, steam vacuum cleaner & more.

YARD SALE! Nice toys, furniture, tools, Sat. Feb. 24. 8:00 AM til gone. Rain or shine. 148 Michigan LRAFB, no early birds! 240-6515.


HELP WANTED

WANTED: C-130 Maintenance people, retired or will retire in a year. Move south to tax free state. Excellent hunting, fishing, & watersports. Send resume to logassoc@bellsouth.net.* 2/23

PART TIME SALES ASSOCIATE Automotive knowledge a plus. $8-$10 hr to start. 25-35 hrs. per week. Will work with schedule for the right person. Visit Scott at Jacksonville Firestone. 1006 W. Main St., or fax resume 501-982-7258.* 2/23

PAGE PLUS CELLULAR is now hiring inside sales people. Sales experience required, great work environment, excellent benefits available, salary & commission. Fax resume 501-833-8841. EOE.* 2/23


SERVICES

CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER is offereing an excellent full time opportunity - must have completed high school/GED, have a love and compassion for children, be dedicated to making a difference in children’s lives, training available. M-F, no weekends or evenings. Pay depending on experience, call 501-605-9228 or come by 46 Financial Dr. Cabot to fill out application. * 3/02

SWEENY LAWN CARE Serving Arkansas since 1991 with year round Lawn & Landscaping Maintenance. We offer all color of organic mulch and also offer Leaf Removal. Free Estimates. Licensed & Bonded. Call 501-912-1524. 7/28
Piano lessons for beginning to advanced students. Experienced teacher with available references. Private instruction in Sherwood home, convenient to base. Mrs. George 834-1944 or 529-2331.* 2/23
babysitter needed, looking for dependable mature adult to care for toddlers, full time, must have transportation and be reliable, call 247-8130 or 983-4672. 2/23


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 speciatly. (501) 988-2458. *12/28/07


PETS

FOUR FREE PUPPIES, 982-4145 or 982-4769. 2/23

HOUND DOG, female, 9 mo. old, has all shots, spayed, free to good home. 501-726-3788. 2/23

FEMALE HOLLAND Lop rabbit 1 yr old black and white can email pictures $20.00. Call 501-749-5111. 2/23

MINIATURE DASCHUND 11 LBS, red. Her name is Molly Sue. 3 years old. Spayed. Free to a good home with lots of love. Call 416-2086 anytime. 2/23

FREE TO GOOD HOME Golden Retrievers, male & female 3 yrs. old. Papers for each. Female fixed. PCSing cannot take with. 501-240-9320. 2/23


FURNITURE

SIX PIECE SOLID WOOD white Bedroom Set, Full Bed, Night Stand, Book Shelf, Side Tabe, Desk, chair. $350. No mattress. 605-8085. 2/23

G.E., 19” T.V. color. $30.00. 982-8407. 2/23

WASHER AND DRYER, for sale. Excellent condition. $150 each. Call 501-882-2420. Beebe area. 2/23

REFRIGERATOR- white/Westinghouse, 19 Cubic Feet w/Ice Maker. $200. 982-8407. 2/23

DRYER- Gas/G.E .Like new (white) $150.00. 982-8407. 2/23

KIRBY VACUUM Generation 3 w/attachments. $100.00. 982-8407. 2/23

MULTI COLORED sofa bed, in good shape, with 2 slip covers, $175. 605-8405. 2/23

COLOR TV, 19 in. $75, dryer, electric, excellent condition. $75 obo. 612-8297. 2/23

LATE 1800S antique bedroom suit, head and footboard, dresser w/ mirror, wash stand w/ mirror $800. 501-605-2873. 2/23

WASHER AND DRYER for sale. Excellent condition. $150 each. Call 501-882-2420. Beebe area. 2/23

BAKER’S RACK, chest of drawers, sleigh bed frame, book shelf. $20 ea. (501) 941-4691 Cabot. 2/23

SOFAMART THUNDERBIRD black leather sofa & recliner. Sofa only 9 months old. Sofa has two built-in recliners & is very soft & comfortable. Paid $1495 for sofa, sell both for only $900! Brad 240-3301. 2/23

FOR SALE: Dark brown leather couch. Two yrs old, great condition. Purchase price $1000...Asking $550. Call 501-773-4646 (Sherwood) 2/23

TWIN COMFORTER SET. Includes twin comforter, Sham, Sheet set-fitted, flat, and pillowcase. Also includes matching bedskirt! Very pretty-like new. Call for picture on website. 662-891-3331. 2/23

BLACK 5 PIECE Dinette Set: Glass Top: 4 chairs have beige replaceable pillows; great condition $75; 501-960-4377 or 832-689-7219. 2/23

COUCH FOR SALE: Green in color. Built in recliners on both end. Fold down console in center. Basset brand. Call 870-834-9908. Ward Area. 2/23

BABY CRIB and armoire for $75 and baby stroller with matching car seat. Please call 240-7484 for more information and/or pictures. 2/23

FOR SALE: JVC 60 inch projection T.V., $500. Gamecube with extras, $50. Bose speakers, one center, two front , and two rear,$300. Klipsch powered sub, $300. 501-796-8597. 2/23

FUTON WOOD frame with denim slipcover and mattress. Great condition. $175. Call 833-3365. 2/23

FRIGIDAIRE FREEZER White, chest type, 5.5 cubic feet. Perfect working condition. $100. Call 833-3365. 2/23

LESS THAN A YEAR old leather, burgundy recliner for sale. Paid $700 will suffice fo $375. 2/23

LARGEST CAPACITY Whirlpool washer - used very little - perfect condition and cleans great. $125. 501-772-4347 2/23

FOR SALE: 3 piece mirrored and lighted bedroom set, nice wood and glass coffee table set $100, brass chandelier $75, Located Jax-Cabot, 501-281-2241. 2/23

FULL SIZE mattress and box springs. Used approximately 4 times. Like New. $200.00 Firm. Call 882-6462 or 626-4181. 2/23

2 COUCHES one loveseat, one recliner and two dyers for sale. 501-985-9955 after 5:00 P.M. 2/23

MICROFIBER sofa & loveseat. Has two recliners. Champagne color. Excellent condition. Paid $1,400. Cherry coffee & end tables. $700 for everything. 542-4950 after 4 p.m. 2/23

BEAUTIFUL couch and loveseat. $450. Matching cream color. Only 1 year old. Call for picture on website. 662-891-3332 2/23

TWIN comforter with comforter with bedskirt, sham, matching sheets. $30. Call for picture. 662-891-3332 2/23

GIRLS’ BABY Martex crib bedding, pocket full of posies,everything included. Crib mattress, all in great condition. $50.00 if interested, please call 743-1462. 2/23

HOME FURNISHINGS for sale, sofa, loveseat, dining set, coffee table, end tables,dvd cases, etc. Call (501) 352-6774, or (501) 835-6439 for prices. 2/23

LARGE ENTERTAINMENT CENTER, paid $2,500 asking $1,500. 51” Sony HDTV, paid $1,500 asking $700. $2,000 for both. txdarlyn@classicnet.net. 501-247-1830. Cabot 2/23

LESS THAN a year old leather burgundy recliner for sale. Paid $700, will suffice for $375. 605-0719 or 960-3979. 3/02


LOST AND FOUND

LOST: basset hound in Sun Terrace area of Cabot, male 1 1/2-2 years old, white, black and brown. Reward offered. 605-8182 or 554-0429. 3/02

LOST: yellow female lab. In Little Rock AFB. Approx. 8 wks old. Desperately need back. Call (501) 554-3139. 3/02

LOST: bag of loveseat pillows in Austin area, on Friday, 2 big pillows, 4 throw pillows, if found call 606-0417. 2/23

LOST tri-colored female Australian Shepherd, missing from El Paso area on Monday, Feb. 5, 2007. 501-230-5066.

LOST SHIH-TZU from Magness Creek, Cabot. Off white/tan. Missing bottom front tooth. “Abby”. Family Misses! 472-8683 or 941-1980.


WANTED

WANTED: looking for bees wax. Call 941-0288. 2/23

DISPLACED HOMEMAKER in desperate need of appropriate clothing to get back in the work place, size 12. 501-941-3839. Jax, Cabot and Beebe area.

NEED ROUND bales of hay in the Cabot area at a reasonable price, will take as few 3-4 or more. Call Charles @ 501-843-2865.

BABYSITTER NEEDED, looking for dependable mature adult to care for toddlers, full time, must have transportation and be reliable, call 247-8130 or 983-4672.


ITEMS FOR SALE

SCHWINN ARRDYNE Exercise bike, works well made of good materials originally $700. No room in house, has cosmetic crack $75. 501-772-8112. 2/23

TREADMILL WIDE track, solid, well-made, stow away type, many features works well, but looks rough originally $800. No room in house $50. 501-772-8112. 2/23

MACINTOSH DESK computer with monitor keyboard, cordless mouse, software, one owner $100. 501-772-8112. 2/23

250 GALLON grease trap w/riser, $300; 3 compartment stainless steel sink w/drain boards $300; 30 in. electric slide in wall oven, like new, $299. 676-1199. 2/23

UTILITY BUILDING, 8 ft. x 12 ft. long, all treated plywood, 2x4 treated beams, (2) 4x6, 12 ft. long runners, red shingle roof, built by Cook Ind. 18 months old $1,200 you move. $1000 we move it. 259-0572 or 259-6100. 2/23

MOVING SALE, matching 3 piece full/queen bedroom set $375, metal bunk bed, futon sofa, all w/ mattresses, nice coffee table and 2 lamp stands $100, chest freezer $75, chandelier $75. Call for more bargins. 501-281-2241. Jax/Cabot. 2/23

WEDDING RING $200. 17 small diamonds, wedding dress, size 8-10. $50. 2/23

BODY BY JAKE ab scissors $125, 2 drawer file cabinet $10, kissing bench $100, folding 2 seat camping chair $10. 501-882-3570 Beebe. 2/23

HARMAN KARDON AVR5 Audio-Video receiver. 4 A/V inputs, front panel input, 5 surround modes, 6-channel direct input, preamp outputs, preprogrammed universal remote. $100 OBO Brad 240-3301. 2/23

DRESSES FOR SALE: wedding/formal white size 4 never worn-$100; 2 prom/formal size 3/4 & 2 both pink $75 each. Call Ashley or Stephen 247-2356 or 247-6043. 2/23

BEAUTIFUL PROM DRESSES! Both are two piece dresses. both show some of the stomach area. One white; one pink. Paid over 500 dollars for pink and over 350 for white. Can email pictures of dresses. Asking 200 dollars for pink and 100 dollars for white. Call 870-834-9908. Ward Area. 2/23

MISCELLANEOUS BABY’S clothes. Size 0-9 months. Infant Girls. Name Brand. Call for prices. 870-834-9908. Ward Area. 2/23

BEAUTIFUL PAGEANT Dress. Size 12 months to 2T. Asking 150 dollars. Paid 300 dollars. Worn 3 times; still in perfect condition. Perfect for Valentine pageant. Will email pictures. Call 870-834-9908. Ward Area. 2/23

VINTAGE BLUE & Tan Dooney & Burke Handbags for sale, $50 each. Matching wallet/coin purse available @ Best Offer. Work Phone 457-7515 Home Phone 837-7515. 2/23

PUNCHING BAG - Everlast 70 pound traditional heavy bag, great for boxing and martial arts training. Excellent condition! Bought new for $100, will sell for $50 obo. Call 366-1125. 2/23

WEDDING DRESS, strapless, sequin top, size 10 to 12, beautiful, paid $750 asking $400 call 247-8130 or 983-4672. 2/23

INFANT BOY CLOTHES, Oak glider Rocking chair w/cushion $25, NeoSure Formula for preemies $5 a can, Call 247-8130 or 983-4672. 2/23

UNIFORMS FOR SALE: barely used PT gear, BDUs, DCUs, Womens Mess and Service Dress; all less than half price; CALL 960-4010. 2/23

SEARS AUTO LUGGAGE CARRIER All parts included, only used a few times. $50. Call 833-3365. 2/23

WEDDING DRESS Size 20W-22W. Champaign/Ivory. Strapless. Never worn. Preserved. Paid $800 asking $300 OBO. Must see! Call Amy 501-542-4779. 2/23

5 GALLON GLASS carboy with 6 gal. mixing bucket. Used for making your own wine or beer. $15, Call 501 554-3418. 2/23

PLASTIC 55 GALLON BARRELS i have 6 to sell $30.00 call 501 79604513 El Paso area. 2/23

NUMEROUS BABY ITEMS- clothes, high chair, swing, bassinet, kids table set. Furniture and 21 cubic foot freezer. Too many to list, call for pricing. 501-941-7261 2/23

NIKE TENNIS SHOES Size 13, Never worn, White with Metallic Silver. $60.00 FIRM. Call 982-3405 until 7:00p.m. DAILY 2/23

NEW HOME ELECTRIC New Home electric sewing machine,bought several years but has only been used very little, portable and in case. asking $150.00 obo. Call 912-1035. 2/23

2004 ATV Kawasaki 80 (Automatic), Excellent condition. $1,600. Call 501-259-1443. 2/23

black & Decker, lawn edger, one year old, used 3 times, just like new, asking $75.00 OBO. 501-912-1035. 2/23

MTX THUNDERFORM sub enclosure (tan) with two MTX 10” speakers. Fits Heritage model Ford F-150, regular cab. No loss of seat travel. $150 call 352-4934. 2/23


LAWN & FARM EQUIPMENT

560 LONG TRACTOR, power steering, live shaft, cab and doors, $3,750 cash. 868-5135 or 626-2538. 2/23

BLACK AND DECKER lawn edger,used only twice,bought at sears a year ago,paid 90.00 dollars asking 75.00,like new.501-912-1035.

RIDING LAWNMOWER 8.5hp, 38” cut new blade runs well $300. 501-772-8112. 2/23

LAWN EDGER one year old,used three times, just like new,asking $75.00, paid $98.00. 2/23


LOTS & ACREAGE

CABOT, MULTI-FAMILY and Commercial land available. Call Steven @ The Blackwood Team - 843-0780. * 2/23


HOUSES FOR RENT

FOR RENT: Nice 2 and 3 Bedroom Mobile Homes on Large lots in Quiet Safe Park close to LRAFB. New Carpet and Appliances. Starting at $395 per month plus Deposit. HUD accepted Call today and get Two weeks Free Rent 501-835-3450.

NICE 3 BEDROOM 2 Bath Home in Cabot. Magnus Creek subdivision. $900 month, $700 deposit. Non-smokers only. Available March 1. Call 1-501-605-8292 or 1-501-743-1122 for information.* 2/23

2 BEDROOM, 2 BATH Mobile Home, located 8 miles from LRAFB. Huge yard with beautiful scenery, washer/dryer hookups, furnished kitchen. $450 deposit, $450 rent. Call 940-0806.* 2/23

CABOT 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, with privacy fence, cul-de-sac & 2 car garage. $725 month, $500 deposit. Non-smokers only. (501) 454-7042.* 2/23

FOR SALE: 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath Home, Weatherwood subdivision in Ward, 2 years old. Call (501) 843-3732, (501)605-3224 or (501) 605-3196.* 2/23


HOUSES FOR SALE

OPEN HOUSE - Cabot - Sunday 2/25, 2pm-4pm. “You must see this!” 1755 sq. ft., brick, 4 Bedroom, 2 Bath, spacious kitchen, 2 car garage, fenced yard. $165,000. 13 Pecan Lan ein Magnus Creek Subdivision. *2/23

CABOT 3 BEDROOM 2 Bath 2 car garage house. FSBO. Fenced backyard. Less than 2 years old $105,000. 325-226-3906. *2/23

AUSTIN FSBO: large 4 bedroom 2.5 bath, 2560 sq.ft., 1.5 acres, Cabot Schools, large shop, custom design. 570 Oakridge Drive. Asking $224,000 Karenst@centurytel.net *2/23

CABOT FSBO 2 Bedroom, 1 Bath House on 5 acres, large storage shed, city water. $95,000. Will help with closing costs or upgrades. (501) 941-9874, (501) 941-1043.* 2/23

FSBO: 4/2 , 2650 sq. ft., built in 2004, on 3.8 acres in Austin. 25 minutes from LRAFB. Cabot Schools, fenced for horses, 2 story shop/barn. $291,500 obo. Call (501) 743-0009 or email lisadee@centurytel.net.* 3/02

CABOT, FSBO - 1870 sq. ft., 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, double garage, large corner lot, fenced backyard, refrigerator, washer & dryer included, 12x12 shed. Magnus Creek. $168,400 obo. (501) 259-0775, www.shover.com Open most Sundays 2 pm-4 pm.* 2/23

CABOT SCHOOLS recently remodeled 5 bedroom, 2 Bath, 2 story house on 2 acres, over 2500 sq. ft., has fenced yard. Can email photos. $205,000 (501) 605-7313.* 2/23

FOR SALE: 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath Home, Weatherwood subdivision in Ward, 2 years old. Call (501)843-3732, (501) 605-3224, or (501) 605-3196.* 2/23


AUTOS/ ACCESSORIES

2004 PONTIAC Grand AM, 23,000 miles, factory warranty, like new. $9400. 501-681-0108. 2/23

2000 DODGE RAM pickup. Runs up and looks great, lots of upgrades. 98K miles, $6,900. Call 501-554-2621. 2/23

‘88 GMC SERVICE truck, 4 wd, V8, automatic, a/c, power steering, $1,950. Cash. 868-5135 or 626-2538. 2/23

2001 SATURN SC1, Coup, 3rd door, power windows and locks, cd, new paint and tires, good car. $4,200 obo. 501-743-1333. 2/23

BEDLINER for an S10 Chevy, $100. Toolbox for $200. 985-9289. 2/23

1979 FORD 150 gas/propane $600. 501-281-2241.

90 FULL size Bronco. 351 w/ 4x4, power, cd player, roof rack and hitch. $3250. In Cabot. 501-416-5369.

2000 CHEVY Silverado, 4 door, extended cab, bed liner, bed canvas cover, wheel trim, bug guard, cd player, whit exterior grey interior, $12000 obo. 982-9018 after 6 pm.

1997 NISSAN Altima GXE, automatic, power windows and doors, cd player, $3250. In Cabot. 501-416-5369.

CONVERTIBLE TOP for a 2002-2003, new, paid $750. Asking $300. 501-605-2873.

CHEVY S-10 Steel wheels. Set of 4. only $25! Brad 240-3301

1994 SATURN SW2 4 cyl 1.9L DOHC 5-speed manual, 115k miles, cruise control, 30 Mpg, Runs good! $1950 obo 501-743-9228 Rick

SONY CAR System Set: Includes Two 12 inch Subwoofers, 1200 Watt Amp, 150 Watt Deck, and Speaker Box- Great Condition $250 or best offer. 501-960-4377 or 832-689-7219

2005 BLK CTS Cadillac, 38.5k miles, blk leather inter., wood grain, $25.5k contact 247-8130 or 983-4672 leave a message.
SET OF 18” ICW rims with Kumho Ecsta SPT tires, call for size. Only 10k miles of use. $700 obo. 2/23

FOR SALE: 1979 Ford PU supercab, $600, propane-gas, running. Jax-Cabot 501-281-2241 2/23

2 PERSON JEEP w/ battery and charger - $25, Single person Ford truck w/ battery and charger - $25, 8.9 cu ft. Upright Kenmore Freezer - $150, 2- 10 inch Kicker Solobaric L5’s in a box w/ a soundstream 880 Watt 2 Channel Amp - $400/obo. Contact Boyd Shurett @ 501-749-3784. 2/23

2007 TOYOTA Corolla Sport - $17,000. Need to sell, buying a house. Brand new, White, 3 months old, Rear Spoiler, Sun roof!! Call for picture. Will sell or you take over monthly payments for $306 a month. Call 662-891-3332. 2/23

1996 FORD RANGER ,4 cylinder reg. cab swb. 988-9021. 2/23

2004 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. 5 Speed GLS Turbo. Moonroof. 18,500 Miles. Excellent Condition. Good Gas Saver. $15,000. Call 501-773-1998. 2/23

1994 mazda Mx6, 2 door, 2-6 cylinder, good on gas, runs great, automatic trans, automatic window, cd player, $1,700. New brakes. New tires. 501-255-1758. 3/02

2000 SPORTSTER HUGGER 883 7K miles dyno tested, 56 hp- 67tq fwd controls extra chrome custom seat/bars, spoke wheels. $6,000 obo. Call Sean 501-941-7730. 3/02

200 CHEVROLET Silverado 4 door, extended cab, bed liner, bed canvas cover, wheel trim, bug guard, cd player, exterior is white. 501-982-9018. Call after 6 pm. 3/02

2005 SCION XB white, new tires, warranty, 34K miles, auto, 30 mpg, lots of extra, $15,000 OBO. Call 580-235-5238. 3/02


RECREATIONAL VEHICLES

FORD HARLEY Davidson F150-2001 for sale 72,000 miles, leather, sunroof, lots of chrome, Sirius Radio, $17,500/obo. Call CJ 01-819-0166. 2/23

2000 HONDA Civic, great 245 mileage $5500. 501-985-3503. 2/23

1999 WINNEBAGO MINNIE 22E- 22’ White Class C Motor home, 4 KW Generator, sleeps 6, 34K miles, $22,500, call Will. (501) 590-2087. 3/02

2004 POLARIS Sportsman 500 HP, $500 NMS and tires $400 UARN winch only 441 miles, 58 hrs. $4,800 obo. Call 912-1733. 3/02

1993 YAMAHA WaveBlaster, 700 motor size, 93 Seadoo XP-650 rebuilt engine with 20 hours run time custom made trailer both for $4000. Call Thad 833-0409 & leave message. 3/02

TOP STORY >>Air Mobility Command's command chief visits

By TECH. SGT. ARLO TAYLOR
314th Airlift Wing Strategic Information Flight

Air Mobility Command's top enlisted leader visited the "Home of the Herk" Feb. 14 and 15. Command Chief Master Sgt. Joseph Barron, Jr., toured the C-130 Center of Excellence, met with base senior leadership, conducted an enlisted call with 463rd Airlift Group members, viewed the 314th Logistics Readiness Squadron deployment center and spoke at the base's Chief's Induction Ceremony as part of his visit.

The chief said the Herculean contributions of Little Rock's tactical airlifters are making a true difference everyday fighting the Global War on Terrorism. Tactical airlift has kept more than 5,000 convoys off the roads of Iraq. "If we didn't have our tactical airlift, we wouldn't be able to feed our people or get them the supplies they need," the chief said. "More importantly, we wouldn't be able to get those convoys off the road.

"It's absolutely necessary to winning the Global War on Terrorism," the chief said. "We are making a difference and saving lives every day." Every Airman is important to not only making the mission happen, but also telling its story, Chief Barron said. "Every one of us is a communicator and every one of us needs to tell our story," the chief said. "Our Airmen are very modest. And they don't want a lot of glitter and glamour. But they are truly heroes.

"They need to tell their story because if they don't, the public won't know the great things they are doing and great impact they are making, not only on Iraqis but the rest of the world," he said. With the challenges of force shaping, modernization and operations tempo, the chief said supervisors are crucial to making the mission on the front lines a success. He said the most important thing supervisors can do is get to know their Airmen and their families.

"Get to know your people. Get out from behind the desk and look your people in the eye and make sure they are doing well every day," Chief Barron said. "Make sure the Airmen who work for you know their work means something and they are making a difference."

The trip gave Chief Barron a chance to meet the men and women who are making a difference with Little Rock's C-130 tactical airlift mission. "I'm really impressed with the people and the teamwork that is evident here," he said. "You can truly tell it's a team here. It's one team, one fight."

TOP STORY >>Unmatched muscle meets pin-point precision

By TECH SGT. ARLO TAYLOR
314th Airlift Wing Strategic Information Flight

Air National Guard and Active-duty C-130 airlifters were put through the paces of learning the Joint Precision Airdrop System during follow-on training Feb. 12-16 at the 34th Combat Training Squadron Little Rock AFB.

JPADS is the Air Force’s newest smart weapon — GPS guided cargo bundles. It uses a steer-able parachute to deliver the cargo to a precise ground location. The system joins Herculean airlift muscle and pinpoint precision. “The art of tactical airlift has been dropping from 400 to 1000 feet above the ground and hitting the mark,” said Maj. Dan DeVoe, Air Mobility Warfare Center, McGuire AFB, N.J. “JPADS increases the precision and velocity of vertical resupply, and at the same time, offers a greater level of survivability to aircraft, aircrews and the guys on the ground,” DeVoe said.

“We can hit a much tighter location and that gives troops on the ground less ground to secure without giving away their positions,” he said. The class was a tune-up for crews readying for upcoming Air and Space Expeditionary Force deployments. The crews who trained at the 34th CTS are getting ready for AEF rotations to Afghanistan where tactical airlift is taking the fight directly to the Taliban.

“The bottom line is that we support the user on the ground and the training gives us the capability do it in a consistent manner so they can receive safely,” said Lt. Col. Bryan Rawson, West Virginia Air National Guard 130th Airlift Squadron operations officer.

“The important thing is (troops) recover loads without exposing themselves any more than necessary. It keeps people and convoys off the roads. We deliver (cargo) to them when they need it where they need it. It’s a great asset.” JPADS has been integral to operations in opening a new frontier of airdrop in Afghanistan.

“There are places we are resupplying that are inaccessible to vehicles and rotary wing aircraft,” he said. “Because of the terrain and weather, in the past those areas may not have even been accessible with airlift,” DeVoe added. “JPADS enables resupply of places where risk to aircraft may have once been too high," said Maj. Gabe Griess, 34th CTS.

“Because of JPADS, we can get our troops the ‘beans and bullets’ they need to press the fight,” Griess said.

NEWS BRIEFS>>Feb. 23

A/TA TO HOST DINNER

The Razorback Chapter of the A/TA will host a dinner at 6 p.m. March 2 to welcome the Airlift Tanker Association National Board at the Conference Center. Former Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. (Ret) Ronald Fogelman and Chief MSgt. (Ret) Mark Smith, A/TA President will be in attendance. The cost is $10 for members and $15 for non-members.

Please contact Capt. Andy Venne at 240-2443 or Capt. Anna Murray 210-391-5320 for more information.


NAF JOBS AVAILABLE

The following non-appropriated-fund jobs are available: Thomas Community Center, recreation aid, NF-I, regular hours; Youth center, recreation specialist, NF-II, regular hours; personnel, human resourcees assistant, regular hours and club, waiter, NA-02, flexible hours. For more information call 987-6440.


St. PATRICKS DAY 5K SLATED FOR MARCH 2

The 314 AW and the 463 AG safety offices are sponsoring a 5K run in conjunction with the command run on Friday, March 2. The event will highlight the importance of celebrating St Patrick’s Day safely. Have a plan before the party starts; check the weather before you head out to the parade. Registration for the race is open at the fitness center. The 5K will start at 6:45 a.m., 20 minutes prior to the command run. T-Shirts will be given to the first 300 people to finish the race.


RETIREMENT CEREMONY SET FOR FEB. 23

A retirement ceremony will be held at 2 p.m. Feb. 23 for Master Sgt. Scott C. Benhase, 314th Maintenance Squadron, at the Little Rock AFB Conference Center.


CLUB HOSTING AUCTION

The Little Rock Spouses’ Club presents “the Pot o’ Gold Auction for Education” at 5:00 p.m. on March 16 at the Consolidated Club. Come bid on some great items in all price ranges in our silent and live auctions. Some of the one of a kind items include vacation packages, homemade quilts, art, event tickets and experiences, hotel and restaurant packages, homemade desserts and jewelry.

This event is open to all base personnel and dress is casual or uniform of the day. Tickets are $5 in advance and $7 at the door and include appetizers and drinks. Tickets are available at the Thrift Shop. All funds raised go to support the LRSC Scholarship program. For more information or tickets, please see our website: www.littlerockspouses.com or call Kathy Awe at 241-0148.


AMERICAN RED CROSS SEEKING DONATION

The American Red Cross will be holding a blood drive in the area on the following dates.
9 a.m. to 6 p.m. today at Cabot Junior High North, 602 N. Lincoln St. in Cabot.
2:30 to 6:30 p.m. Feb. 26 at First Baptist Church, 208 S. Scott in Ward.
9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 20 at North Pulaski High School, 718 Harris Rd. in Jacksonville.
2 to 7 p.m. Feb. 24 at Wal-Mart, 2000 John Harden Dr. in Jacksonville.


AA MEETINGS HELD

AA meeting, "Brown Bag Lunch Meetings" are held from noon to 1 p.m. Monday-Friday at the LRAFB Chapel annex. For information, please call 888-842-7555.

TOP STORY >>First JPADS airdrop over Iraq a success

By STAFF SGT. CARLOS DIAZ
U.S. Central Command Air Forces

BALAD AIR BASE, Iraq (AFNEWS) — Eight aircrew members from the 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing’s 777th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron used the joint precision airdrop system for the first time over Iraq Feb. 16 to deliver six 1,200-pound bundles.

The Air Force developed the software and the Army developed the steerable chutes. The JPADS includes a wind sonde sensor, which is a 12- to 15-inch tube-shaped, beige-colored device that weighs no more than three pounds. The new JPADS has two components, according to Lt. Col. David Kuenzli, the 777th EAS commander.

The Air Force-developed software uses an advanced weather model to compute a very accurate release point in the air. The Army’s chutes are steered by a global positioning system. When both components are combined, the airdrop can be delivered from high altitudes of up to 25,000 feet.

“This gives us the ability to have the same or better accuracy on the drop zone,” Colonel Kuenzli said. The colonel and his aircrew were ready to employ the JPADS. “We want to be able to show that we have this capability, and we’re going out to demonstrate that we can do this and keep the Army re-supplied,” he said.

They were going to re-supply the ground troops with water and Meals, Ready to Eat. The aircrew charged with this responsibility was deployed from the 463rd Airlift Wing at Little Rock Air Force Base. They are assigned to the 50th and 61st Airlift squadrons. The eight-man crew consisted of Maj. Matthew Lewis, aircraft commander; Capt. Matthew Reece, pilot; 1st Lt. Matthew MacFarlane, co-pilot observer; Capt. Eric Fancher, primary navigator; Capt. Kenny Bierman, instructor navigator; Tech. Sgt. Darrel Jackson, flight engineer; Tech. Sgt. Oliver Osborne, primary loadmaster; and Staff Sgt. Daniel Maslowski, secondary loadmaster.

After a highly-detailed intelligence briefing, the loadmasters departed to perform their mission preparation. After their mission prep was complete, three aerial port members from the 332nd Expeditionary Logistics Readiness Squadron loaded the bundles into the aircraft.

Once inside, a team of Army riggers began to secure and tighten the bundles with an incredible attention to detail. “With this new system, we’re using the technology in today’s Army to keep everyone safe,” said Warrant Officer David Bird, airdrop system technician assigned to the 368th Cargo Transportation Company. Warrant Officer Bird detailed some of the advantages of the new JPADS. “The recovery time is faster, the loads are easier to download, the airdrop is faster because of the high velocity of 70 to 90 feet per second, and it’s low-cost, fast and safe,” Bird said.

The 13-year soldier said his team’s been practicing its entire career. “We’re a close-knit family,” he said about his eight-member rigger crew. “To see something like this go through is worth it for us.” Once the joint airdrop inspector Senior Airman Andrew Strazzinski inspected the load for safety and correct rigging procedures, the C-130 was ready for takeoff.
The bundles were airdropped once the aircraft was positioned at a 7-degree-high nose drop angle. Using simple gravity, the bundles slid off and the huge parachutes immediately deployed.

“My job, as the primary loadmaster, was to make sure the load goes out as advertised,” said Sergeant Osborne, who is a formal training unit instructor in the 714th Training Squadron at Little Rock AFB. As a career field instructor, he stressed the importance of communication. “We had an open line of communication,” he emphasized. “Communication was the key because we listened to each other, backed each other up and kept two eyes on everything.”

His young counterpart, 27-year-old Sergeant Maslowski, was anxious to complete his first combat airdrop using the new JPADS. “My adrenaline was pumping the entire time,” the redheaded loadmaster said. “It was exciting because I constantly kept doing more than one thing to stay ahead of the game.

“This for me has peaked all other deployments; I experienced first hand what we train for,” he continued. “Supporting the ground troops who really need these supplies is what it’s all about,” said Sergeant Osborne, an 18-year Air Force member.
Colonel Kuenzli was satisfied with the team’s effort to successfully accomplish the airdrop mission.

“The entire teamwork from our maintenance team got this aircraft prepped and ready, and the aircrew members prepared for several weeks and studied hard to know and understand each other’s jobs and roles,” he said. Once the aircrew returned with an empty cargo compartment, it was obvious that the mission was a success. Sergeant Maslowski could not wipe the ear-to-ear grin off of his freckled face.

“This was so awesome, and I was ingrained in the moment,” he said. After a celebratory pose holding the American flag, the aircrew had a debrief session about the first combat airdrop over Iraq using the JPADS. “We’ve paved the way for everyone else,” Sergeant Osborne proudly exclaimed.

TOP STORY >>41st AS under new management

By NICOLE CAMPBELL
Pope AFB Public Affairs

POPE AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. – For 36 years, the 41st Airlift Squadron “Blackcats” have called Pope AFB home, but Friday’s realignment ceremony marked a new beginning as the unit heads to Little Rock AFB, Ark. The 41st AS will stand up in Little Rock on April 5, under the command of Lt. Col. Dan Tulley. The current 41st AS commander, Lt. Col. Thomas Crimmins, noted that the realignment is the first tangible Base Realignment And Closure move for Pope.

“This is just the first of many, and it should hit home that the moves are happening now,” he said. He added that this realignment was originally scheduled to take place at a later date, but he received the call in August from Air Mobility Command, and the timeline was shortened.

The guidon transfer from Pope to Little Rock will not signal an immediate mass exodus of personnel. About 90 of the current 41st AS personnel are deployed for a scheduled rotation as new members of the 737th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron. The remainder have been transferred to the 2nd Airlift Squadron here, awaiting their next assignment.

Colonel Crimmins said that when the time comes, most will probably receive orders to go somewhere other than Little Rock AFB. He is among those deploying and said when his deployment ends, he will return to Pope and await Air Force instructions. He took command less than a year ago with the assumption he would be in command for two years.
“This is bittersweet. The time has been too short, but I understand the need of the Air Force to move [the squadron] to Little Rock to pick up a new mission and new airplane,” said Colonel Crimmins.

He said that although his command has been brief, he is happy he will get to stay with his troops and command for another 120 days during the deployment. During the ceremony, Col. Daryl Blan, 43rd Operations Group acting commander, briefly relayed some of the unit’s accomplishments. He said the 41st AS has a proud history as the third oldest Air Force squadron, having been involved in every major campaign since its inception Feb. 18, 1942, and as one of the most highly decorated airlift squadrons in U.S. military history. The unit began as a transport squadron, but soon became a troop carrier squadron, flying the C-47. The squadron later flew the C-119 Boxcar, and made the transition to the C-130 Hercules in 1957.

Col. Timothy Zadalis, 43rd Airlift Wing Commander, also addressed the crowd of about 200 veterans, family members, distinguished guests and the 41st navigators, pilots, copilots, load masters and crew chiefs, during a short speech at the ceremony. Several of the 41st AS prior commanders were in attendance.

“The previous commanders have built a legacy for the 41st...and their spirit lives on with the Blackcats,” he said during his speech. That “spirit” will also physically live on, as each 41st AS commander’s names were painted on a Pope C-130E that will soon be retired to the boneyard in Ariz. Colonel Blan said the 41st will add another chapter to its history by being the first Air Mobility Command active duty C-130J squadron. The C-130J was added to the inventory in 1999, and is noticeably different than its precursors.

“There is fundamentally some-thing wrong with six blades on a prop,” joked Colonel Blan. According to the BRAC Realignment Ceremony brochure, the C-130J was designed to outperform the subsequent models and boasts a Rolls Royce engine and six-bladed propellers. Colonel Zadalis insisted, “It’s not the aircraft that’s the future, it’s the people. They will turn [the C-130J] into another air mobility legend.”

The climax happened toward the end of the ceremony as the personnel in formation were told to remove their Blackcat patches and replace them with their gaining unit patch; however, for a group photo with a C-130 as a backdrop, the Airmen were able to put the 41st AS patch back on.

Friday, February 16, 2007

TOP STORY >> Children’s Dental Health Month: The 3 F's

By Capt. (Dr.) Brian Bird
314th Medical Group

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, and dental professionals are making an extra effort to educate and treat as many children as possible. We focus on children’s dental health because many adults have mentioned their dental problems started when they were a kid. They often wish someone had helped them take care of their teeth a lot earlier.
Kids love candy, and unless children are taught at an early age to care for their teeth, they run the risk of having extensive and costly dental treatment their entire life.

When helping young children care for their teeth, parents can keep in mind the three F’s.

1. Fluoride: When a child’s teeth are forming, fluoride from drinking water and other sources incorporates into the outer layer of a tooth. This strengthens the enamel and makes it more resistant to cavities. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that water fluoridation is the most efficient way to prevent tooth decay. Other sources of fluoride include toothpastes, and fluoride supplements. Children can get too much fluoride if they are brushing their teeth with too much toothpaste. A pea-sized amount is sufficient.

If a child lives in an area with fluoridated water they do not generally need fluoride supplements. Jacksonville currently has the optimal fluoride levels in the city water.

2. Frequent check-ups. Children can be seen by a dentist as early as 6-months-old. This is a good time for young parents to talk to the dentist about how to take care of their child’s teeth. Dental visits every six months are important in order to continue educating the child and the parents.

3. Forbid juice and milk in the bottle at bedtime: Children who go to bed with a bottle that has juice or milk run the risk of developing “baby bottle” tooth decay. This can be devastating to young kids, often leading to rampant tooth decay and some extractions. Losing baby teeth at an early age is traumatic for children and parents, and the memory of that first horrible dental experience can linger for a long time. Stick to water and you can’t go wrong!

SPORTS>>Master sergeant wins first in tournament

Special to the Drop Zone
‘”Shock and awe.”
Those words were echoed by a member from the 314th Airlift Wing when he received his first place trophy among the top five winners in his belt category at The Battle of the Bayou Martial Arts Karate Championships in Shreveport, La., Feb 3.
“I was definitely in shock and completely in awe,” said a smiling Master Sgt. Jay “Byrd” Bryant, 314th Airlift Wing Public Affairs superintendent.

Bryant placed first in the men’s over-40 free sparring, black belt division. “This was my first competition in 18 years and my first as a black belt. I’ve been in and out of martial arts for the past four or five years, but during my tour in Seoul, Korea last year, I decided to get serious with it and starting training really hard,” said Sergeant Bryant. “Needless to say, I was a bit skeptical of doing well, but after stepping onto that floor and hearing my friends and team mates cheer me on, I was good to go.”

Sergeant Bryant, an Alexandria, La., native and 26-year Air Force veteran said that prior to entering the competition, he had only been training for about two months at his current school. More than 80 men, women and children traveled from surrounding areas such as Kansas, Arkansas and Texas to compete in the all-day tournament. Sergeant Bryant said he felt proud to represent the Air Force and Little Rock AFB. “As far as I know, I was the only active duty, Air Force member competing. But then again, when you have multiple flying hands and feet coming at you from every direction at the same time, you don’t stop to ask what the person’s rank is,” said Sergeant Bryant smiling.

In addition to Sergeant Bryant, four other members of Grandmaster Brown’s school competed in the tournament and two of the four took top honors. Chase Heineman and Brett Matchett both swept first place and took home grand champion trophies in each event they competed in. Heinemann, a 17-year old third degree black belt and instructor at the school won first place in grappling, forms and sparring. He also won the grand champion trophy for forms.

The other two competitors, Tiffany Smith, a 10 year-old first degree black belt finished second in sparring and third in forms.
Bradlee Yarber, an 11 year-old green belt, won first place in forms. He finished second in weapons and grappling. “When I was 18-25 years old, I had visions of being a karate champion, but now I just enjoy being fit,” he said. “I stay in shape by lifting weights three times a week at the base fitness center. I also eat healthy and get plenty of rest.”

Sergeant Bryant added that in addition to martial arts, he is a competitive bodybuilder and competes in bodybuilding shows three or four times a year. He even has his own health and fitness web site, www.bodiesbybyrd.com. His next martial arts contest will be the Grand National Martial Arts Karate Championships at the Jacksonville Parks and Recreation Center,May 5.

TEXAS HOLD'EM>>Feb. 16, 2007

(Updated as of Wednesday, Feb. 7)

Rachelle Simonof 31
Hank Varner 30
Peter Urbach 24
Katie Gradeless 21
Drew Sayson 20
Will Gradeless 19
Dave Castro 18
Dean Amarosa 12
Phillip Cantrell 12
Jerry Kallam 12
Dave Rice 10
Matthew McCarthy 10
Justin Cooks 9
Dave Watson 6
Scott Molaison 3
Kristen Frazer 2
Josh Harper 1
Kim Spencer 1
James Spencer 1


(Updated as of Wednesday, Feb. 9)

Peter Urbach 22
Hank Varner 22
Dave Rice 21
Katie Gradeless 20
Aaron Pohl 18
Doug Lingo 17
Mike Smith 12
Justin Cooks 12
Rachelle Simonof 11
Kenny Ridgeway 11
Woody McEwen 10
Will Gradeless 10
Drew Sayson 10
Bill Wiles 9
Dean Amarosa 8
Brandon Quesenberry 8
James Hendel 7
Kerya Reyes 6
Jerry Kallam 6
Anna Murray 5
Phillip Cantrall 2
Dave Castro 2
Scott Molaison 1
Rick Sloop 1
Brandi Ablay 1
Fred Graves 1

OFF DUTY LIFE >>02-16-07

Pioneer atmosphere offered at state park

Five Trails Rendezvous is set for Saturday and Sunday at Historic Washington State Park. Travel back in time to a festive pioneer atmosphere. Walk through a frontier encampment and learn about survival skills used by early Arkansas settlers. Watch re-enactors demonstrate tomahawk throwing, use of muzzle-loading rifles and more. Co-sponsored by the Early Arkansas Re-enactor Association. Admission to the camp is free. Tours of the park are available at regular pricing. For more information visit the Web site www.oldwashingtonstatepark.com.


Romantic night at museum Saturday

“A Romantic Night at the Museum,” the Second Annual Valentine Fund-raiser for the Jacksonville Museum of Military History, will be held Saturday. Social hour begins at 5:30 p.m. with big band music provided by John Lee and Oldies Radio 106.3. Adult beverages will be available. Following a buffet dinner provided by N&N Family Restaurant there will be a silent and live auction. Proceeds go to the museum and are tax deductible Auction items this year include: A romantic week at Gulf Shores, Alabama in a beautiful oceanfront house; a weekend at a cozy three bedroom condo on the shores of Lake Hamilton and CheeseCakes by Warren! Admission is $30 single and $60 couple. For more information call DannaKay Duggar at 241-1943 or visit the Web site www.jaxmimlitarymuseum@centurytel.net.


Mardi Gras celebration Tuesday in Farmington

A Mardi Gras celebration will be held Tuesday, Feb. 20 in the 300-400 block of Dickson Street in Farmington. A second-line foot parade with the Billy Zydeco Band and the 2007 royalty of the Demented Krewe of Dickson, through the clubs and restaurants along W. Dickson St. Beginning about 7 p.m. ending about 10 p.m. Street reopens to traffic at midnight. Admission is free. For more information call 479-846-4794.


Senior center plans roast 'n toast

The Jacksonville Senior Center will host its 12th Annual Roast ’N Toast Dinner at 7 p.m. on Feb. 22. Larry Burton, pastor of the McArthur Assembly of God Church in Jacksonville will be the roastee. Tickets to the event are $35 apiece or $280 for a table of eight. Proceeds from the event will raise money to increase services to senior citizens in North Pulaski County. The Jacksonville Senior Center provides services at its activity center in Jacksonville and McAlmont, as well as in-home services.
They provide hot meals to about 180 homebound seniors per day and homemaker services to approximately 70 seniors per week. They also provide transportation, activities, hot meals, and socialization to approximately 70 seniors per day at the Jacksonville center.


Murder mystery slated for Feb. 23-25

A Murder Mystery Weekend is set for Feb. 23 – Feb. 25, 2007 Olde Stonehouse Bed and Breakfast at 108 W. Main St., in Hardy. Come to the Ozarks and enjoy the award winning weekend of Murder, Mystery, and Mayhem. Reserve your spot as a suspect in our story.

Exercise your dramatic side and highlight your sleuthing skills. Package includes two nights lodging, four meals, souvenir gifts, and a weekend of intrigue. Admission is $400 per couple. For more information visit the Web site www.oldestonehouse.com.


UAMS celebrates Black History Month

The Third Annual Midsouth Summit Black Expo, presented by the Arkansas Cancer Research Center Cancer Control Outreach Center at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, will celebrate Black History Month with health screenings, entertainment and more from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Feb. 24 at the Clear Channel Metroplex Event Center.

Mammograms will be available to women age 40 and older who have insurance or qualify through the BreastCare program.
Pre-registration is required by calling Kimberly Enoch at (501) 296-1501, Ext. 1869. A dinner featuring keynote speaker state Sen. Tracey Steele is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Feb. 23 at the Clear Channel Metroplex Event Center. For information, contact Kim Blann at (501) 526-7047. For more information, visit www.uams.edu.

MOVIE REVIEW>> 2-16-07

By Staff Sgt. Mitchell Lombard
Special to The Drop Zone
Rated R for drugs, sexual content, and language

How much do you really know about the people around you? Is questioning their every intention an act of misplaced paranoia, or is it mere vigilance? “A Scanner Darkly” is going to let you decide.

Originally a novel by Phillip Dick (“Total Recall,” “Blade Runner,” “Minority Report”), “A Scanner Darkly” takes us inside the world of Bob Arctor. Working undercover in the near future as a junkie hooked on the new drug “Substance D,” Bob begins to wonder who his friends really are, and where his life is taking him.

Not knowing who to trust or who he is supposed to be, Bob marches on toward his fate, even if he doesn’t know it yet. Keanu Reeves performs slightly better than what we are used to in his role as the troubled detective. Conversely, Winona Ryder never seemed to genuinely settle into her character opposite Reeves. The most astounding work comes from Robert Downey Jr. who is spot on as a paranoid and ever-present druggie. We also get some good laughs out of Woody Harrelson in a solid supporting role.

The entire movie was filmed and then layered with Interpolative Rotoscoping. I have no idea what this is, but I liked the name of the process, so I thought I would pass it on. What I can tell you is that it gives a very interesting, half-animated presence to the movie. You can recognize the faces, but is has the feel of some type of media stuck halfway between a live-action film and the pages of a well-drawn comic book.

The plot itself is a twisting and turning ride that doesn’t ever jump out at you quickly. You could compare it to being on a roller coaster that never goes faster than 10 mph. This works for some, but not for others. Hopefully you know which category you fall into.

In either case, you can’t go wrong by watching it for the revolutionary visual effect itself, for it is a fascinating experience. That being said, I also predict it could quickly become overused in future films and die off as quickly as it appeared. In other words, get it while the getting is good (and still original).

Those looking for cheap thrills and explosions should look elsewhere. “A Scanner Darkly” doesn’t deliver anything that would raise your heart rate (aside from Winona Ryder, of course). But if you want intelligent dialogue partnered with a thought provoking storyline that keeps you in limbo until the very end and, this might just be the film for you this weekend.
Now available at your base Shoppette.

COMMENTARY>> Choose wisely

ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam (AFNEWS) — As I was driving to work recently, I noticed a child about 7 or 8 years old walking toward the school. I quietly admired him as he skipped up the street. He was so carefree. If only I could be so lucky.
However, he stopped abruptly at the corner as a perplexed look fell upon his face.

It was too early for crossing guards to stop the traffic and there were no teachers on duty to guide him across. He looked left. Right. Left again. He made no movement. Hmm ... how to proceed?

Which way to go?

He could proceed directly across the street and go directly to the school. Or he could go left and then across the street, however, he would still have to cross yet another street to end up on school property. Choices, choices, choices. Ever wonder how many choices you make in a typical day?

You start the day by choosing whether to get up right away or hit the snooze button. You choose whether to boil an egg or have cornflakes for breakfast. You choose to read this commentary or cut it short. These decisions typically get very little conscious thought. It’s as though we are on autopilot. We just kind of do what we “feel like” doing, or what we think we “have to do.”

If you stop to think about it, how many of our bigger decisions are also on automatic pilot or made too quickly?
Take a moment to consider what happens when we get too busy to make responsible choices. Responsible choices affect more than just the people who make them; they affect our friends, our supervisors, our families and, yes, our mission.
When our commanders and supervisors brief us on policies, procedures and safety measures, they are providing us with the tools to make informed decisions.

As Airmen we must take time to listen and hear. Equally we must take time to read and fully understand our individual responsibilities to make wise choices. Line of duty determination, survivor benefits, and the Uniform Code of Military Justice are terms that can come into play when you choose irresponsibly — the repercussions can last a lifetime — or prove just the opposite.

An annoyed driver honked trying to rush the child to a decision. He looked left. Right. Left again. All cars had stopped.
He received nods from the two leading drivers and he began his journey across the street. In this case, he chose wisely.
Make sure you do the same.

NEWS BRIEFS>>Feb. 16

Retirements slated

A retirement ceremony for Chief Master Sgt. Robbie Robertson, 314th Maintenance Group superintendent, is 2 p.m. today at the Conference Center. A retirement ceremony will be held at 2 p.m. Feb. 23 for Master Sgt. Scott C. Benhase, 314th Maintenance Squadron, at Little Rock AFB Conference Center.  

Spouses' Club hosting auction

The Little Rock Spouses’ Club presents “the Pot o’ Gold Auction for Education” at 5 p.m. on March 16, 2007 at the Consolidated Club. Come bid on some great items in all price ranges in our silent and live auctions. This event is open to all base personnel and dress is casual or uniform of the day. Tickets are $5 in advance and $7 at the door and include appetizers and beer. Tickets are available at the Thrift Shop. All funds raised go to support the LRSC Scholarship program. For more information or tickets, please see our website: www.littlerockspouses.com or call Kathy Awe at 241-0148.


Prayer breakfast slated for Feb. 23

Little Rock AFB will celebrate the 2007 National Prayer Breakfast at 7:30 a.m. Friday, Feb. 23 at the Consolidated Club. The guest speaker this year is U.S. Senator Mark Pryor. Tickets cost $5 for E-5 and below, and $7 for all others. Tickets are available through the First Sergeants and the Base Chapel and must be purchased by COB, Feb. 21. Dress for military is Uniform of the Day. For more information please contact Chaplain Tony Wade or Ms. Jenne Uhlik at 987-6014.


American Red Cross seeking donations

The American Red Cross will be holding a blood drive in the area on the following dates.
— 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Feb. 23 at Cabot Junior High North, 602 N. Lincoln St., Cabot.
— 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. Feb. 26 at First Baptist Church, 208 S. Scott, Ward.
— 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 20 at North Pulaski High School, 718 Harris Rd., Jacksonville.
— 2 to 7 p.m. Feb. 24 at Wal-Mart, 2000 John Harden Dr., Jacksonville.


College registration begins Feb. 19

Registration starts the week of Feb. 19 for on-base Term IV March – May 2007 college classes. For details contact the University of Arkansas-Beebe, Park University, Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, Southern Illinois University, Webster University and University of Arkansas-Fayetteville offices at the Education Center, Bldg 840 Leadership Drive near the Fitness Center.


CGOC culinary adventure Feb. 22

Little Rock CGOC culinary adventure will be Feb. 22 at Ferneau, 2601 Kavenaugh Blvd., Little Rock. The group will meet at 5 p.m. in the Wing Headquarter's parking lot to car pool and caravan. Plan to leave around 5:30 p.m or meet there at 6 pm. Please RSVP to 1st Lt. James Hodges.


Spouses Call slated

The 314th Airlift Wing Commander Spouses Call is scheduled for 7 p.m. March 6 at the Conference Center.


NAF jobs available

The following non-appropriated-fund jobs are available: Lodging, custodial worker, NA-02, flexible hours; Thomas Community Center, recreation aid, NF-I, regular hours; youth center, recreation specialist, NF-III, regular hours and secretary, NF-II, regular hours. For more information call 987-6440.

CLASSIFIEDS >> 02-16-07

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.

MEN’S BASEBALL league base team. Looking for players. Contact George DiBello. work 743-4815, home 605-9272. Practice starts Saturday, 3 March 2/16

ADVANCED BASKETBALL tryouts on 24 FEB 2007 at 1:00 pm. The tryout will be at Searcy High School. (Searcy Arkansas) This will be a traveling team and will practice from Searcy, AR. It will be a minimum $150.00 a player to play. This is to offset any tournament cost. Must be coming out of the 8th grade. Please contact for directions. TEAM ARKANSAS, Jeffrey A Wilmath, CELL 501-593-1677, HOME 501-268-2962. E-mail htiarkansas@cablelynx.com 2/16


YARD SALES

HUGE GARAGE SALE @ 204 Front St. in Ward, Friday and Saturday 8am-? For more info call 501-605-3892.

MOVING SALE lots of items to sale furniture, washer and dryer, toys, tv, 108 Illinois on LRAFB for more information. Call 48-626-8672.

AFTER YOUR YARD SALE bring your leftover donations to TKO’s Thrift Shop for Needy & Homeless PEOPLE! TAX DEDUCTIBLE. 515 South James, Jacksonville (open 10-4 except Wed. & Sun.) & 1212 South 2nd, Cabot (10-4 Tues. & Sat.) VOLUNTEERS NEEDED. We help E-1 to E-4’s married with children.* 2/16

YARD SALE- 110 Connecticut Dr., LRAFB. 7:30-?. No early birds. Lots of women’s clothing (limited, express, etc), computer desk, computer equipment, furniture, household items.


HELP WANTED

ATTENTION LOCAL COMPANY, has several positions now available. No experience necessary. Company training provided. All positions are permanent with rapid advancement. Must be high school graduate & able to start immediately. Positions start at $485 per wee. For interview, call 941-1421.* 2/16

PART TIME SALES ASSOCIATE Automotive knowledge a plus. $8-$10 hr to start. 25-35 hrs. per week. Will work with schedule for the right person. Visit Scott at Jacksonville Firestone. 1006 W. Main St., or fax resume 501-982-7258.* 2/23
SERVICES

CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER is offereing an excellent full time opportunity - must have completed high school/GED, have a love and compassion for children, be dedicated to making a difference in children’s lives, training available. M-F, no weekends or evenings. Pay depending on experience, call 501-605-9228 or come by 46 Financial Dr. Cabot to fill out application. * 3/02

SWEENY LAWN CARE Serving Arkansas since 1991 with year round Lawn & Landscaping Maintenance. We offer all color of organic mulch and also offer Leaf Removal. Free Estimates. Licensed & Bonded. Call 501-912-1524. 7/28

LICENSED DAYCARE provider has openings. Infants & Toddlers. Full & Part-time enrollments available. Lots of experience, love and care. For more info, please call. 985-1855. 2/16

BABYSITTER needed, looking for dependable mature adult to care for toddlers, full time, must have transportation and be reliable, call 247-8130 or 983-4672. 2/23


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 speciatly. (501) 988-2458. *12/28/07


PETS

FREE CAT to good home, 10 month old male kitten, declawed and neutered. 501-366-7976. 2/16

FREE TO GOOD HOME- American Bulldog/Boxer, 2 yr old male, very handsome! Brown/White. Housetrained, sits and gives five, very calm, and great with kids. Travel carrier available for $40. Can email pictures. Call 940-613-3556 for more info. 2/16

FOUR FREE PUPPIES, 982-4145 or 982-4769. 2/23

HOUND DOG, female, 9 mo. old, has all shots, spayed, free to good home. 501-726-3788. 2/23

FEMALE HOLLAND Lop rabbit 1 yr old black and white can email pictures $20.00. Call 501-749-5111. 2/23


FURNITURE

SIX PIECE SOLID WOOD white Bedroom Set, Full Bed, Night Stand, Book Shelf, Side Tabe, Desk, chair. $350. No mattress. 605-8085. 2/23

MOVING MUST SELL: tv, 27 in for $225; dvd player for $5; cherry dresser w/mirror for $250; full bedroom w/armoire for $700; and couches. Make offer. Nothing too small. 480-626-8672. 2/16

KENMORE WASHER and dryer, heavy duty, large capacity, paid over $1,100 new, must sell. $450 CASH. Call 612-3521. 2/16

NEW SOFA brown, too large for living room, $475, 501-941-2468. 2/16

CHINA CABINET, Couch w/4 matching chairs, Dining Table, more. Cash Only. $10-$700 OBO 2/16

G.E., 19” T.V. color. $30.00. 982-8407. 2/23

TABLE AND CHAIRS, has tile top and is very clean. Like new $75. Call 626-5579. 2/16

WASHER AND DRYER, for sale. Excellent condition. $150 each. Call 501-882-2420. Beebe area. 2/23

REFRIGERATOR- white/Westinghouse, 19 Cubic Feet w/Ice Maker. $200. 982-8407. 2/23

DRYER- Gas/G.E .Like new (white) $150.00. 982-8407. 2/23

KIRBY VACUUM Generation 3 w/attachments. $100.00. 982-8407. 2/23

MULTI COLORED sofa bed, in good shape, with 2 slip covers, $175. 605-8405. 2/23

COLOR TV, 19 in. $75, dryer, electric, excellent condition. $75 obo. 612-8297. 2/23

LATE 1800S antique bedroom suit, head and footboard, dresser w/ mirror, wash stand w/ mirror $800. 501-605-2873. 2/23

WASHER AND DRYER for sale. Excellent condition. $150 each. Call 501-882-2420. Beebe area. 2/23

BAKER’S RACK, chest of drawers, sleigh bed frame, book shelf. $20 ea. (501) 941-4691 Cabot. 2/23

SOFAMART THUNDERBIRD black leather sofa & recliner. Sofa only 9 months old. Sofa has two built-in recliners & is very soft & comfortable. Paid $1495 for sofa, sell both for only $900! Brad 240-3301. 2/23

FOR SALE: Dark brown leather couch. Two yrs old, great condition. Purchase price $1000...Asking $550. Call 501-773-4646 (Sherwood) 2/23

TWIN COMFORTER SET. Includes twin comforter, Sham, Sheet set-fitted, flat, and pillowcase. Also includes matching bedskirt! Very pretty-like new. Call for picture on website. 662-891-3331. 2/23

BLACK 5 PIECE Dinette Set: Glass Top: 4 chairs have beige replaceable pillows; great condition $75; 501-960-4377 or 832-689-7219. 2/23

COUCH FOR SALE: Green in color. Built in recliners on both end. Fold down console in center. Basset brand. Call 870-834-9908. Ward Area. 2/23

BABY CRIB and armoire for $75 and baby stroller with matching car seat. Please call 240-7484 for more information and/or pictures. 2/23

FOR SALE: JVC 60 inch projection T.V., $500. Gamecube with extras, $50. Bose speakers, one center, two front , and two rear,$300. Klipsch powered sub, $300. 501-796-8597. 2/23

FUTON WOOD frame with denim slipcover and mattress. Great condition. $175. Call 833-3365. 2/23

FRIGIDAIRE FREEZER White, chest type, 5.5 cubic feet. Perfect working condition. $100. Call 833-3365. 2/23

LESS THAN A YEAR old leather, burgundy recliner for sale. Paid $700 will suffice fo $375. 2/23

LARGEST CAPACITY Whirlpool washer - used very little - perfect condition and cleans great. $125. 501-772-4347 2/23

FOR SALE: 3 piece mirrored and lighted bedroom set, nice wood and glass coffee table set $100, brass chandelier $75, Located Jax-Cabot, 501-281-2241. 2/23

FULL SIZE mattress and box springs. Used approximately 4 times. Like New. $200.00 Firm. Call 882-6462 or 626-4181. 2/23

2 COUCHES one loveseat, one recliner and two dyers for sale. 501-985-9955 after 5:00 P.M. 2/23

MICROFIBER sofa & loveseat. Has two recliners. Champagne color. Excellent condition. Paid $1,400. Cherry coffee & end tables. $700 for everything. 542-4950 after 4 p.m. 2/23

BEAUTIFUL couch and loveseat. $450. Matching cream color. Only 1 year old. Call for picture on website. 662-891-3332 2/23

TWIN comforter with comforter with bedskirt, sham, matching sheets. $30. Call for picture. 662-891-3332 2/23

GIRLS’ BABY Martex crib bedding, pocket full of posies,everything included. Crib mattress, all in great condition. $50.00 if interested, please call 743-1462. 2/23

HOME FURNISHINGS for sale, sofa, loveseat, dining set, coffee table, end tables,dvd cases, etc. Call (501) 352-6774, or (501) 835-6439 for prices. 2/23

LARGE ENTERTAINMENT CENTER, paid $2,500 asking $1,500. 51” Sony HDTV, paid $1,500 asking $700. $2,000 for both. txdarlyn@classicnet.net. 501-247-1830. Cabot 2/23


LOST AND FOUND

LOST: bag of loveseat pillows in Austin area, on Friday, 2 big pillows, 4 throw pillows, if found call 606-0417. 2/23
Missing tri-colored female Australian Shepherd, missing from El Paso area on Monday, Feb. 5, 2007. 501-230-5066.

LOST SHIH-TZU from Magness Creek, Cabot. Off white/tan. Missing bottom front tooth. “Abby”. Family Misses! 472-8683 or 941-1980.


WANTED

WANTED: Babysitter needed, looking for mature adult to care for toddlers, full time, must have transpotation. Call 247-8130. 2/16

WANTED: looking for bees wax. Call 941-0288. 2/23

DISPLACED HOMEMAKER in desperate need of appropriate clothing to get back in the work place, size 12. 501-941-3839. Jax, Cabot and Beebe area.

NEED ROUND bales of hay in the Cabot area at a reasonable price, will take as few 3-4 or more. Call Charles @ 501-843-2865.

BABYSITTER NEEDED, looking for dependable mature adult to care for toddlers, full time, must have transportation and be reliable, call 247-8130 or 983-4672.


ITEMS FOR SALE

SCHWINN ARRDYNE Exercise bike, works well made of good materials originally $700. No room in house, has cosmetic crack $75. 501-772-8112. 2/23

TREADMILL WIDE track, solid, well-made, stow away type, many features works well, but looks rough originally $800. No room in house $50. 501-772-8112. 2/23

MACINTOSH DESK computer with monitor keyboard, cordless mouse, software, one owner $100. 501-772-8112. 2/23

MEN’S and Lady’s 26” 18 speed mountain bikes. Like new. $50 each. Call 551-4299. 2/16

INFANT Boy clothes, Rocking chair $25, Neosure Formula $8, Call 247-8130. 2/16

WEDDING DRESS, strapless, sequin top, size 10 to 12, beautiful, paid $750 asking $400. Call 247-8130. 2/16

HARMAN KARDON AVR5 audio/video receiver. 4 A/V inputs, front inputs, 5 surround modes, preprogrammed universal remote, 6-channel direct inputs, only $100! 240-3301 2/16

GRACO SNUGRIDE Infant car seat with base high safety rating $55, Infant All dash-Around head and body car seat pad $12, Baby boy cloths birth -12 months all $20, Bouncer Seat $10, Infant bath seat $8, 2 infant baby front carriers $5 ea. All items in excellent condition. Call 731-7914 or 501-987-7914. 2/16

250 GALLON grease trap w/riser, $300; 3 compartment stainless steel sink w/drain boards $300; 30 in. electric slide in wall oven, like new, $299. 676-1199. 2/23

UTILITY BUILDING, 8 ft. x 12 ft. long, all treated plywood, 2x4 treated beams, (2) 4x6, 12 ft. long runners, red shingle roof, built by Cook Ind. 18 months old $1,200 you move. $1000 we move it. 259-0572 or 259-6100. 2/23

MOVING SALE, matching 3 piece full/queen bedroom set $375, metal bunk bed, futon sofa, all w/ mattresses, nice coffee table and 2 lamp stands $100, chest freezer $75, chandelier $75. Call for more bargins. 501-281-2241. Jax/Cabot. 2/23

WEDDING RING $200. 17 small diamonds, wedding dress, size 8-10. $50. 2/23

BODY BY JAKE ab scissors $125, 2 drawer file cabinet $10, kissing bench $100, folding 2 seat camping chair $10. 501-882-3570 Beebe. 2/23

HARMAN KARDON AVR5 Audio-Video receiver. 4 A/V inputs, front panel input, 5 surround modes, 6-channel direct input, preamp outputs, preprogrammed universal remote. $100 OBO Brad 240-3301. 2/23

DRESSES FOR SALE: wedding/formal white size 4 never worn-$100; 2 prom/formal size 3/4 & 2 both pink $75 each. Call Ashley or Stephen 247-2356 or 247-6043. 2/23

BEAUTIFUL PROM DRESSES! Both are two piece dresses. both show some of the stomach area. One white; one pink. Paid over 500 dollars for pink and over 350 for white. Can email pictures of dresses. Asking 200 dollars for pink and 100 dollars for white. Call 870-834-9908. Ward Area. 2/23

MISCELLANEOUS BABY’S clothes. Size 0-9 months. Infant Girls. Name Brand. Call for prices. 870-834-9908. Ward Area. 2/23

BEAUTIFUL PAGEANT Dress. Size 12 months to 2T. Asking 150 dollars. Paid 300 dollars. Worn 3 times; still in perfect condition. Perfect for Valentine pageant. Will email pictures. Call 870-834-9908. Ward Area. 2/23

VINTAGE BLUE & Tan Dooney & Burke Handbags for sale, $50 each. Matching wallet/coin purse available @ Best Offer. Work Phone 457-7515 Home Phone 837-7515. 2/23

PUNCHING BAG - Everlast 70 pound traditional heavy bag, great for boxing and martial arts training. Excellent condition! Bought new for $100, will sell for $50 obo. Call 366-1125. 2/23

WEDDING DRESS, strapless, sequin top, size 10 to 12, beautiful, paid $750 asking $400 call 247-8130 or 983-4672. 2/23

INFANT BOY CLOTHES, Oak glider Rocking chair w/cushion $25, NeoSure Formula for preemies $5 a can, Call 247-8130 or 983-4672. 2/23

UNIFORMS FOR SALE: barely used PT gear, BDUs, DCUs, Womens Mess and Service Dress; all less than half price; CALL 960-4010. 2/23

SEARS AUTO LUGGAGE CARRIER All parts included, only used a few times. $50. Call 833-3365. 2/23

WEDDING DRESS Size 20W-22W. Champaign/Ivory. Strapless. Never worn. Preserved. Paid $800 asking $300 OBO. Must see! Call Amy 501-542-4779. 2/23

BARN TYPE 8’ x 12’ cook utility building, all treated plywood, 70’ X60’ groove outside walls, 2 4X6, 12 ft. treated runners, red shingled roof, $1,200. You move. 501-259-0572 or 259-6100. 2/07

KEROSENE heater, good condition, $50; gas cook stove, works good, white, $75. 676-0712. 2/14

ONE WOODEN OFFICE desk honey brown, $40.00 obo. 1 glass and chrome tv console, holds big screen up to 70inches, $60.00 obo. $80.00 for both, Tara-952-4112 2/14

GIRLS/TEEN CLOTHING-Name brand very good condition, Winter/Summer/Spring, 12/14/16(Girls)Teen sizes up to a 3! $1.00 per shirt or obo! 2/14

TIE DOWNS for cabover camper-$100, glass doors for bathtub/shower-$25, kerosene heater 15,200 BTU- $50.Call 843-3383. 2/10

AMPLIFIER Peavey Envoy 110, $200, loud and gig capable. 501-985-4225. 2/10

SEVERAL THOMAS KINCADE prints in nice frames, size 20X27. 5 nice men’s shirts, 2XL, long sleeve, all different colors. Call 982-0133. 2/10

LIGHT GREEN gorgeous bedspread and matching canopy top, both for $10, great condition. 501-941-3922. 2/10

HOSPITAL TUB and shower chair, like new, $20. 835-1164. 2/14

EIGHTEEN OLD windows, sizes 28X29, $5 each. 676-3408. 2/14

NEW 2 PIECE OUTFITS size 12-14 or medium, petite, short. $15 each. Call 982-2595. 2/14

WOOD FOR SALE you cut up and remove. Two types of wood offered: Gum and oak. Can be burned in house fireplace. Call 501-834-3463. 2/14

MORGAN BUILDING (12 x 24 appox) Like new 2 years old. Paid $6,000.00 will take $3,500. Call Don at 501-743-6199 or Corlett at 743-6979. 2/14

MX BOOTS MX Boots, Alpinestars Tech 6, New, Size 12 $175, 843-2122, Cabot 2/14

FOX MX BOOTS, Size 11, $50 843-2122 Cabot, 2/14

SAUNA BELT, Sweat Away Inches, $20, Retail $59.98 843-2122 Cabot 2/14

JUGS JR. pitching machine. Like new, with softballs, cart & screen. $975. 501-676-0881 2/14

CRAFTSMAN toy work bench - $15; Dehumidifier - $40; Computer (700 MHz) computer w/ 17” monitor - $75; FireLog starter logs (box of 24) - $5; Ole Ewel storm door (80x32) - $75. Call 831-0914. 2/14

MEN’S AND LADY’S 26” 18 speed mountain bikes. Like new. $50 each. Call 551-4299. 2/14

PLAYSTATION 2 13 games, 3 controllers, 3 memory cards, online adapter-$250. Call 501-278-7213. 2/14

GAMECUBE, 7 games, 1 wireless controller, 1 wired controller, 2 memory cards-$100, television JVC, 30” widescreen, flat-screen, 6 mo. old, perfect condition. $500 obo. Call 501-278-7213. 2/14

CHAPEL LENGTH off white,wedding gown and veil. Sleeveless. Size 10. Worn once and preserved. $550.00 (501)230-0924. 2/14

ENGAGEMENT RING. Marquis cut. Over a carot. $850.00. (501)230-0924. 2/14

PROM/ FORMAL DRESSES: 1 blue 2 piece, size 3 for $15; 1 emerald green, size 9/10 for $15; 1 red and white for $50; 1 short black size 5 for $15; 1 black beaded, size 2 for $40, for more info call 501-941-7185 in Cabot. 2/14

CUSHIONED exercise work bench, $40. 501-882-3171. Beebe. 2/14

10 WINDOWS BRONZE 2 pane inhouse, 1 year, all $200, cost over $500. 944-8899 Cabot. 2/14

WEDDING DRESS beaded top, with medium trail and veil, size 16, $200 obo. Call Mary at 749-9091. 2/17

FLOWERGIRL pageant dress, light purple, sleeveless, size 8, $50. Call Mary at 749-9091. 2/17

5 GALLON GLASS carboy with 6 gal. mixing bucket. Used for making your own wine or beer. $15, Call 501 554-3418. 2/23

PLASTIC 55 GALLON BARRELS i have 6 to sell $30.00 call 501 79604513 El Paso area. 2/23

NUMEROUS BABY ITEMS- clothes, high chair, swing, bassinet, kids table set. Furniture and 21 cubic foot freezer. Too many to list, call for pricing. 501-941-7261 2/23

NIKE TENNIS SHOES Size 13, Never worn, White with Metallic Silver. $60.00 FIRM. Call 982-3405 until 7:00p.m. DAILY 2/23

NEW HOME ELECTRIC New Home electric sewing machine,bought several years but has only been used very little, portable and in case. asking $150.00 obo. Call 912-1035. 2/23

MTX THUNDERFORM sub enclosure (tan) with two MTX 10” speakers. Fits Heritage model Ford F-150, regular cab. No loss of seat travel. $150 call 352-4934. 2/23



LAWN & FARM EQUIPMENT

560 LONG TRACTOR, power steering, live shaft, cab and doors, $3,750 cash. 868-5135 or 626-2538. 2/23
Black and Decker lawn edger,used only twice,bought at sears a year ago,paid 90.00 dollars asking 75.00,like new.501-912-1035.

RIDING LAWNMOWER 8.5hp, 38” cut new blade runs well $300. 501-772-8112. 2/23

LAWN EDGER one year old,used three times, just like new,asking $75.00, paid $98.00. 2/23


LOTS & ACREAGE

CABOT, MULTI-FAMILY and Commercial land available. Call Steven @ The Blackwood Team - 843-0780. * 2/23


HOUSES FOR RENT

HOUSE FOR RENT IN CABOT- 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, fenced yard, small dogs allowed with pet deposit. $800 month. Available first of March. 501-605-6026.* 2/16

3 BEDROOM BRICK HOUSE, privacy fence, vaulted ceilings, island in kitchen, Jacuzzi tub, 1900 sq. ft., 2 car garage, central vac system, wireless surveillance system, wireless, monitored alarm system, Huge shed for storage, free access to pool and tennis courts, 503 Wellington Court - stonewall subdivision, Rent $1000. Available Now!! Call 554-1583. 2/16

FOR RENT: Nice 2 and 3 Bedroom Mobile Homes on Large lots in Quiet Safe Park close to LRAFB. New Carpet and Appliances. Starting at $395 per month plus Deposit. HUD accepted Call today and get Two weeks Free Rent 501-835-3450.

NICE 3 BEDROOM 2 Bath Home in Cabot. Magnus Creek subdivision. $900 month, $700 deposit. Non-smokers only. Available March 1. Call 1-501-605-8292 or 1-501-743-1122 for information.* 2/23

2 BEDROOM, 2 BATH Mobile Home, located 8 miles from LRAFB. Huge yard with beautiful scenery, washer/dryer hookups, furnished kitchen. $450 deposit, $450 rent. Call 940-0806.* 2/23

3 BD/ 2 BA home sitting on 1 acre with formal dining room & office. $950 deposit/ $950 rent. Call Barbara Shown for more information at 501-413-1222.* 2/16

APARTMENTS AVAILABLE starting at $425. 2 BD & 3 BD Hud approved Century 21 Real Estate Unlimited. 501-843-4473.* 2/16

3 BD homes for rent starting at $650. Contact Century 21 Real Estate Unlimited at 501-843-4473.* 2/16


HOUSES FOR SALE

OPEN HOUSE - Cabot - Sunday 2/25, 2pm-4pm. “You must see this!” 1755 sq. ft., brick, 4 Bedroom, 2 Bath, spacious kitchen, 2 car garage, fenced yard. $165,000. 13 Pecan Lan ein Magnus Creek Subdivision. *2/23

CABOT 3 BEDROOM 2 Bath 2 car garage house. FSBO. Fenced backyard. Less than 2 years old $105,000. 325-226-3906. *2/23

AUSTIN FSBO: large 4 bedroom 2.5 bath, 2560 sq.ft., 1.5 acres, Cabot Schools, large shop, custom design. 570 Oakridge Drive. Asking $224,000 Karenst@centurytel.net *2/23

3 BEDROOM, 2 BATH HOUSE in Woodruff Creek. Near Sylvan Hills schools & NLR Airport. Built in 2003, great neighborhood. Approximately 1300 sq. ft., 11649 Ridgetop Drive, Sherwood (501) 580-2129.* 2/16

CABOT FSBO 2 Bedroom, 1 Bath House on 5 acres, large storage shed, city water. $95,000. Will help with closing costs or upgrades. (501) 941-9874, (501) 941-1043.* 2/23


AUTOS/ ACCESSORIES

2004 PONTIAC Grand AM, 23,000 miles, factory warranty, like new. $9400. 501-681-0108. 2/23

2002 CHALLENGER 5th wheel 34 ft., 3 slides, non-smoking, no pets, excellent condition. $28,000. (501) 680-8754. 2/16

‘99 DODGE RAM 2500 Laramie SLT, 4 wheel drive, automatic transmission, electronic brake control, tool box, 74,000 miles, excellent condition, $10,800. (501) 680-8754. 2/16

TOYOTA PARTS 80-85, transmission motor block, new head, etc., $700. 983-1445. 2/16

‘97 EDDIE BAUER Ford Expedition, leather interior, cd player, $5,000 obo. 501-952-5395. 2/16

‘95 SATURN SL gold, 76,500 miles, manual trans, some minor dings, runs great. $1,200 obo. (501)554-3364 Leave message. 2/16

2000 CHEVROLET SILVERADO 4 door, extended cab, bed liner, bed canvas cover, wheel trim, bug guard, cd player, exterior is white. 982-9018. Call after 6. 2/16

1996 NISSAN PATHFINDER, 155K miles, runs great, looks good, very nice, stereo, $4,500. Call Brock 480-626-8672. 2/16

1997 FORD ESCORT Sport, 4 cyl automatic, 4 door, 39, 000 miles, excellent conditon. 501-941-0846. 2/16

PARTS for 1997 – 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix & other “W”-bodies. OEM and aftermarket parts. Call 240-3301 for list. 2/16
2005 BLACK CTS Cadillac, 37.5k miles, leather inter., wood grain, $25.5k contact 247-8130 leave a message. 2/16

2000 DODGE RAM pickup. Runs up and looks great, lots of upgrades. 98K miles, $6,900. Call 501-554-2621. 2/23

‘88 GMC SERVICE truck, 4 wd, V8, automatic, a/c, power steering, $1,950. Cash. 868-5135 or 626-2538. 2/23

2001 SATURN SC1, Coup, 3rd door, power windows and locks, cd, new paint and tires, good car. $4,200 obo. 501-743-1333. 2/23

BEDLINER for an S10 Chevy, $100. Toolbox for $200. 985-9289. 2/23
1979 Ford 150 gas/propane $600. 501-281-2241.

90 FULL size Bronco. 351 w/ 4x4, power, cd player, roof rack and hitch. $3250. In Cabot. 501-416-5369.

2000 CHEVY Silverado, 4 door, extended cab, bed liner, bed canvas cover, wheel trim, bug guard, cd player, whit exterior grey interior, $12000 obo. 982-9018 after 6 pm.
1997 NISSAN Altima GXE, automatic, power windows and doors, cd player, $3250. In Cabot. 501-416-5369.

CONVERTIBLE TOP for a 2002-2003, new, paid $750. Asking $300. 501-605-2873.

CHEVY S-10 Steel wheels. Set of 4. only $25! Brad 240-3301

1994 SATURN SW2 4 cyl 1.9L DOHC 5-speed manual, 115k miles, cruise control, 30 Mpg, Runs good! $1950 obo 501-743-9228 Rick

SONY CAR System Set: Includes Two 12 inch Subwoofers, 1200 Watt Amp, 150 Watt Deck, and Speaker Box- Great Condition $250 or best offer. 501-960-4377 or 832-689-7219

2005 BLK CTS Cadillac, 38.5k miles, blk leather inter., wood grain, $25.5k contact 247-8130 or 983-4672 leave a message.

SET OF 18” ICW rims with Kumho Ecsta SPT tires, call for size. Only 10k miles of use. $700 obo. 2/23

FOR SALE: 1979 Ford PU supercab, $600, propane-gas, running. Jax-Cabot 501-281-2241 2/23

2 PERSON JEEP w/ battery and charger - $25, Single person Ford truck w/ battery and charger - $25, 8.9 cu ft. Upright Kenmore Freezer - $150, 2- 10 inch Kicker Solobaric L5’s in a box w/ a soundstream 880 Watt 2 Channel Amp - $400/obo. Contact Boyd Shurett @ 501-749-3784. 2/23

2007 TOYOTA Corolla Sport - $17,000. Need to sell, buying a house. Brand new, White, 3 months old, Rear Spoiler, Sun roof!! Call for picture. Will sell or you take over monthly payments for
$306 a month. Call 662-891-3332. 2/23

1996 FORD RANGER ,4 cylinder reg. cab swb. 988-9021. 2/23

2004 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. 5 Speed GLS Turbo. Moonroof. 18,500 Miles. Excellent Condition. Good Gas Saver. $15,000. Call 501-773-1998. 2/23


RECREATIONAL VEHICLES

FORD HARLEY Davidson F150-2001 for sale 72,000 miles, leather, sunroof, lots of chrome, Sirius Radio, $17,500/obo. Call CJ 01-819-0166. 2/23

2000 HONDA Civic, great 245 mileage $5500. 501-985-3503. 2/23

2004 HONDA SHADOW VLX. 600cc. Like new, only has 4,000 miles on it. Black and Chrome with no scratches. Garage Kept. $3100 Please contact Ryan at 501-259-6198. 2/16

2005 BASS TRACKER 50 hsp., Mercury motor, trolling motor, trailer, excellent condition. $8,000. (501) 680-8754. 2/16

2004 HONDA RUCKUS gas powered motor scooter. Brand new condition, only 300 miles. Asking $1300. Call 985-0761. 2/16

ATV ARTIC CAT 300, 2003, 4x4 racks and windshield, low mileage, adult ridden. $2,600. 501-843-3297. 2/14

TIE DOWNS for cabover camper-$100, glass doors for bathtub/shower-$25, kerosene heater 15,200 BTU- $50.Call 843-3383. 2/14

1999 WINNEBAGO MINNIE 22E- 22’ White Class C Motor home, 4 KW Generator, sleeps 6, 34K miles, $22,500, call Will. (501) 590-2087. 2/23

TOP STORY >> Personnel leader briefs 'Rock' warriors on changes, issues

By Capt. David Faggard
314th Airlift Wing Strategic Information Flight

Before a standing room only crowd at the base theater, Mr. Roger Blanchard, Air Force assistant deputy chief of staff for manpower and personnel, briefed men and women of the Rock Feb. 6 about the top personnel issues affecting the Air Force.
“These are dynamic and challenging times,” said Mr. Blanchard. “You’re living transformation everyday,” he said stating that these changes will affect each Airman in a personal way.

More than 500 men and women gathered for “the rare opportunity for him to talk to us frankly, one on one,” said Brig. Gen. Kip Self, 314th Airlift Wing commander. The Air Force priorities right now are most important according to Mr. Blanchard.
Those priorities are fighting and winning the Global War on Terrorism; developing and caring for our Airmen and modernizing and recapitalizing our aircraft and equipment. Little Rock AFB is home to many of the Air Force’s oldest and most heavily deployed C-130s in the Air Force.

And to meet or exceed those priorities, Mr. Blanchard said the Air Force is changing the way Airmen do business. “We’re going to do this by funding change through the way we operate; we’re going to reduce legacy systems and create more efficient ways to deliver services,” the personnel veteran of more than 30 years said. “People are expensive — and getting more expensive,” Mr. Blanchard said. “Personnel costs have increased 51 percent over the last 10 years, but the number of people has remained relatively constant.”

The Air Force will have by 2013 to shed approximately 43,000 Airmen through personnel reduction programs like the Reduction in Force board, Force Shaping, etc... he said in his briefing. “We’re trying to do this to the greatest extent possible on a voluntary basis,” he said referring to several voluntary separation programs currently underway like offering officers with six to 12 years of service the option to voluntarily separate from the Air Force with pay.

But a smaller force won’t just be smaller, it will be smarter, quicker and more responsive he said. “The force will not only be reduced, it will be shaped for content,” he said. “We’ll get the right skill sets for the right missions.” “We’re an Air Force at war,” he reminded the crowd. “The difficult decisions we make today will ensure tomorrow’s Air Force will be as good as or better than today’s.”

“This is a prudent strategy; it’s not easy, it contains hard decisions, but it’s the right thing to do for the 21st century Air Force.” Mr. Blanchard is responsible for comprehensive plans and policies covering all life cycles of military and civilian personnel management, including military and civilian end strength management, education and training, and compensation and resource allocation, according to his official Air Force biography.

TOP STORY >> Canadians learn C-130J training tactics

By Senior Airman Tim Bazar
314th Airlift Wing Strategic Information Flight

More than a dozen Canadian Forces officials, aircrew and maintainers made the journey to the Home of the Herk recently to learn about the training programs of Little Rock Air Force Base’s newest airlifter, the C-130J. Officials from the Canadian Air Forces Project Management Office and other facets of C-130 programs teamed up with members of the 48th Airlift Squadron for a week to learn about the way the U.S. handles C-130J training and to answer questions about the J-model.

Canada has already made arrangements to purchase 17 C-130Js from Lockheed Martin and is now in the planning and preparation stage for training programs. Canadian officials are interested in learning about the training systems used at Little Rock and will prepare a training needs analysis after their visit, said Maj. Derek Miller, with the Canadian Air Forces Project Management Office who acts as operational requirements manager for the Airlift Capability Tactical Project.

“We want to take a snapshot of the training requirements involved with the C-130J back with us to begin developing a training program for our new J-models,” said Major Miller. “We plan to use the knowledge gained here as a model for training C-130J crews and maintainers in Canada.” Currently, the Canadian air force has 32 C-130s — E and H models — which they use in tactical operations, search and rescue missions and aerial refueling.

“Our fleets have begun to show signs of age and we’re ready to trade up to a digital airframe,” said Major Miller. “It’s time to gear up for future operations and the C-130J will help us meet and exceed defense demands of the future.” “The more maintenance you have to apply to an aircraft, the less time it spends in the air where we need it,” said Canadian Chief Warrant Officer Paul Lilley, ACTP program officer who procures training devices and courseware. “The new airframe will have less downtime and provide Canada with the capabilities needed to get the job done.

An added bonus to purchasing the same airframe as their allies is the interoperability between the U.S. and Canada in a deployed environment, said Major Miller. Since the two countries will share a common knowledge of the C-130J, aircrews and maintainers can work more closely while deployed to accomplish the mission.

In addition to the C-130J, the Canadian Forces are also looking to C-17s to help alleviate future operational needs.

TOP STORY >> Airlift mission takes over 5,000 convoys off road

By 2nd Lt. Kelly George
314th Airlift Wing Strategic Information Flight

A small group of Airmen gathered in the cold Tuesday at a sign outside of the 463rd Airlift Group building to tack up the number 5,001. The sign, in existence for about four months, designates the number of convoy vehicles that have been taken off the dangerous roads in Iraq due to the airlift mission. Airmen from the 463rd Airlift Group carry a large part of the deployment burden due to the busy C-130 mission of its deployed squadron, the 777th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron, at Balad Air Base, Iraq.

The 777th stays busy, averaging about 25 sorties a day, according to Lt. Col. Tim Anderson, recently returned 777th EAS squadron commander. “Our whole mission is convoy mitigation,” said Colonel Anderson. “What we’re doing is impacting American lives. The (Improvised Explosive Devise) threat is one of the biggest threats to our ground troops. I don’t think people fully understand the impact we have other there.”

The need for this awareness is what prompted members from the 463rd AG to take action in conjunction with members of the 314th Airlift Wing, creating the sign that now stands in front of the group building. “I drive by it (the sign) everyday on the way to work,” said Senior Airman Cecil Johnson, loadmaster from the 50th Airlift Squadron, who recently returned from his second deployment to Iraq. “I think back to the amount of people I’ve helped, it’s very rewarding.”

“We talk to a lot of the Army (personnel),” said Senior Airman Nate Southwick, a loadmaster with the 61st Airlift Squadron. “A lot of guys cheer as soon as we’re wheels up.” “A lot of people on the base don’t realize the true impact the squadron is making,” he said. “After every flight I calculate totals of passengers and cargo so I get to see the impact.”

While aircrews stay busy with convoy mitigation, as a result, deployed maintenance Airmen face their own challenges.
Senior Airman Courtney Coker, who works in Nondestructive Inspection Testing for the 314th Airlift Wing Maintenance Squadron is “on the other side of flight crews, we keep the planes in the air.”

Airman Coker, whose husband is a flight engineer with the 50th AS, was recently deployed to Balad with the 332nd Expeditionary Maintenance Squadron. Two months into her four month deployment, her husband deployed to the same location. Keeping up with the busy maintenance schedule, Airman Coker feels especially connected to the convoy mitigation mission.

“We have to keep them (C-130s) flying to continue the mission,” she said. “Especially because my husband will be flying," she said. Another 120 Airmen, the majority of which were aircrews from the 463rd AG deployed Feb. 9 to Iraq. For most, this was not the first, nor the last time they will deploy in support of the C-130 mission. Many aircrews are in the “one-to-one dwell,” which means that Airmen spend equal time deployed and at home station, according to 314th Airlift Wing Public Affairs officer, Capt. Dave Faggard.

“The C-130 community is being used pretty heavily,” said Colonel Anderson, “but you’ll never hear folks complain.”