CLASSIFIEDS >> 082914

ANNOUNCEMENTS

THE COMBAT AIRLIFTER 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, Ark. 72078. You may also e-mail them to combatairlifterclassifieds@arkansasleader.com Deadline to advertise in Friday's issue is 5 p.m. Tuesday.

"Can You Dig It?" Heavy Equipment Operator Training! 3Wk Hands On Program. Bulldozers, Backhoes, Excavators. Lifetime Job Placement Assistance w/National Certifications. VA Benefits Eligible! 1-866-362-6497.**

SERVICES

Bundle & Save on your TV, Internet, Phone!!! Call Bundle Deals NOW. Compare all Companies, Packages and Prices! Call 855-419-5096 TODAY!**

DIVORCE is tough enough already! Don't let it hurt your wallet too! DIVORCE with or without children $150.00. Guaranteed. Includes name change and property settlement agreement. Call 1-888-247-5150 - 24/7.**

HELP WANTED

ATTENTION: NO EXPERIENCE, $350 plus a week, Simply to test air quality in residential homes on professionally booked appointments. Afternoons and evenings. Call Mon.-Fri. from 9 am-5 pm for interview at (501) 605-1303.**

DRIVERS: CLASS A. Get home more. On five days/off two days. Earn more if you drive more. (866) 374-8487.

HELP WANTED -  HOLTGER BROS., INC. locally owned & operated since 1946 Immediate Construction Opportunities - Cable Plow/Bore, Rig Operators, Aerial Technician, CDL Laborer, Foreman. Travel required. 1-800-831-0754. www.Holtger.com EOE by AA.**

DEDICATED Runs Available in your area TODAY! 100% Customer Dedicated Freight $1100/WK Avg. FREQUENT HOME TIME! TOP PAY & BENEFITS; Monthly BONUSES & more! CDL-A, 1yr Exp. Req'd. EEOE/AAP. LIMITED POSITIONS AVAILABLE. 866-370-4476.

www.drive4marten.com.**

DRIVERS - WANT TO DRIVE A TRUCK...NO EXPERIENCE? EARN WHILE YOU LEARN...COMPANY SPONSORED CDL TRAINING. Full Benefits, Earn $41,500+ 1st year. 1-888-587-2562.**

DRIVERS - AVERITT EXPRESS New pay Increase For Regional Drivers! 40 to 46 CPM + Fuel Bonus! Also, Post-Training Pay Increase for Students! (Depending on Domicile) Get Home EVERY Week + Excellent Benefits. CDL-A Req. 888-602-7440. Apply @ AverittCareers.com. Equal Opportunity Employer - Females, minorities, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.**

DRIVERS - Hiring Regional CDL-A Drivers. Sign-On Bonus. Home WEEKLY! Earn $.38 - $.40 CPM. Excellent Miles! Call 501-850-7104 or Email recruiting@richlogistics.com.**

ATTN: Drivers. $$ RECENT PAY INCREASE $$ 4 CPM Raise for Every Driver + Bonuses. 401k + Insurance. Paid Training/Orientation. CDL-A Req. 877-258-8782. www.Ad-Drivers.com.**

DRIVERS - "Partners in Excellence" - OTR Drivers APU Equipped. Pre-Pass, EZ-pass, passenger policy. 2012 & Newer equipment. 100% NO touch. Butler Transport 1-800-528-7825. www.ButlerTransport.com.**

HORSES

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

AUTOS/ACCESSORIES

2010 NISSAN Versa hatchback, excellent condition, 81,500 miles, 34 mpg hwy./27 mpg city, new tires, cruise, non-smoker, $8,300 cash only. (501) 533-8588.

RECREATIONAL VEHICLES

2007 VULCAN 500, 3,254 miles, new tires & battery 10/13, $2,800 obo. (405) 795-9294.

ELECTRIC SCOOTER for older kids, new batteries, charger, trunk, 15 mph, $150. (719) 351-4979.

ITEMS FOR SALE

PIPE THREADER, ratcheting hand-type, 1/8" thru 1 1/4", dies w/reamer & pipe-cutter, $75. 847-1545, Bryant.

POOL TABLE: 7' solid slate pool table, felt is worn but still plays well, all accessories included, need the space, $500. (501) 628-8755, Jen.

WEDDING DRESS, white, halter, chapel length, size 14, $275. (719) 351-4979.

STEEL BUILDINGS BLOWOUT!! Perfect for Homes & Garages! Amazing Savings on possible clearance buildings. LOW PRICES. LOW monthly payments various sizes available. Call 1-800-991-9251.**

SAWMILLS from only $4397.00 - MAKE & SAVE MONEY with your own bandmill - Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. FREE Info/DVD: 1-800-578-1363 Ext.300N. www.NorwoodSawmills.com. Texas Land - 22,000 ACRES Mule Deer, Whitetail, Hogs, Quail, Doves, Year Round Access, Limited Members, Guest Tags, House & RV Space, $10,000. 501-350-1606.**

FURNITURE

CRIB w/attached changer, converts into toddler bed, good condition, mattress included, $125. Call/text: (501) 786-3803.

HOUSES FOR RENT

JAX. - SUMMER Special - $0 Deposit on all 3 bedroom, 2 bath mobile homes in park. $500-$550 per month. Call (501) 744-4668.

$0 DEPOSIT, Jax. - 1 bedroom camper in park, $400 month, all utilities paid except propane. Call (501) 744-4668.

CABOT: 3 bedroom, 2 baths, approx. 1800 sq. ft. All new stainless steel appliances in kitchen. New fixtures & ceiling fans. Master bath has his & hers closets and vanity sinks. $1275 mo., $1275 dep. No smoking, pets negotiable. (501) 628-1225.

2 BEDROOM house, 1 bath, down private drive, central heat & air, ceiling fans, lots of shade trees, $400 month, $300 deposit, no pets. (501) 837-0264.

HOUSES FOR SALE

Cabot/Pulaski county - 3 bedroom 2 bath HOUSE with SHOP on 1 acre, handicap ramp, newly remodeled, 1754 sq. ft., $128,500. Minutes from LRAFB. Call (501) 658-7277.

3312 PINE Valley Dr., Sherwood 72120. 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2140 sq. ft., sunroom, 5 acres, 36x40 barn or shop, fence, granite, dual fuel, large deck. Minutes from back gate of LRAFB. Restricted area. (501) 590-2509.

985 COLONIAL Drive, Jacksonville - $164,900, 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1912 sq. ft., open floor plan, gas log fireplace, minutes from LRAFB. Call Carole Smith, Crye-Leike, NLR, (501) 351-5903.

BRIEFS >> 082914

Estate claim

Col. Patrick J. Rhatigan, 19th Airlift Wing commander, regretfully announces the death of Staff Sgt. Dylan E. Blevins, 19th Logistics Readiness Squadron. Anyone having claims against or indebtedness to the estate of Staff Sgt. Dylan E. Blevins should contact 1st Lt. Matthew Hemenway, 19th Logistics Readiness Squadron, at (501) 987-3013 or matthew.hemenway.4@us.af.mil.

Closures and hours of operation for holiday weekend announced

There will be an Air Mobility Command family Day on Friday, Aug. 29 in conjunction with the Labor Day weekend. This is a list of closures and alternate hours for the holiday weekend.

The following services/sections/units will be closed Aug. 29 - Sept. 1

• 19th Medical Group

• Base Legal Office

• Finance

• Military Personnel Section 

• Airman and Family Readiness Center

• Thomas Community Activities Center

• CDC in Bldg. 1257

• Family Child Care

• Hangar 1080

• The base commissary will have normal hours Aug. 29 - 31 but will be closed Sept. 1. The Hercules Dining Facility will have normal hours. The following 19th Force Support unit/sections/services will have alternate hours Aug. 29.

• Sept. 1: bowling center, CDC in Bldg. 1990, fitness center, golf course, ITT, the library, outdoor recreation, the skills center, and the youth center. Please visit www.rockinattherock.com for specific hours of operations.

Gate closures until October

Due to construction, the Arnold/107 Gate is closed and will remain closed until approximately the beginning of October. To assist with traffic, the Harris Road (School) Gate will continue 24-hour operations and the Vandenburg Gate will remain open.

Firing range complex off limits

The Combat Arms small arms firing range complex on Little Rock Air Force Base is off limits to all unauthorized personnel. Anyone requiring access to the ranges or surrounding areas during and after duty hours is required to contact the range control in building 1393 or at 501-987-6861 prior to entry as per posted guidance at the range entrance. 

Munitions Storage Area closure

The Munitions Storage Area will be closed Sept. 1-26 for the semi-annual 100 percent stockpile inventory. During this time, the MSA will only process emergency requests. Please forward all questions to Master Sgt. Dunlap at 501-987-6031.

TOP STORY >> CE touts well done BEEF Project

By Airman 1st Class Harry Brexel

19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

Airmen from the 19th Civil Engineer Squadron completed a more than two-month training exercise to ensure they are mission-ready at any given moment. 

Because of varying specialties within the civil engineering career field, the Base Engineer Emergency Force exercise, nicknamed Prime BEEF,  allowed an array of CE professionals to partner together in order to accomplish the mission. 

“Each year, we are able to train through completing a contingency construction home training project,” said 1st Lt. Michael Alvarez, a 19th CES operations engineer. “For day-to-day operations, CE Airmen work alongside civilians or contractors. The purpose of this exercise is for Airmen only to work together in order to refine their organic capability.”

A variety of major trades were involved in the 2014 exercise, including engineering, electrical systems, production control, power production, heavy repair, structural, liquid fuels maintenance and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.

The annual readiness exercise consisted of two different projects this iteration. 

“Our first project involved replacing 500 feet of sewer line,” Alvarez said. “Our second project was much larger and more expensive.  It involved building and renovating bathrooms in our electric shop.”

The idea to build the bathroom was chosen over a variety of other ideas that came from 19th CES Airmen.

Senior Airman Maria Brekkestran, a 19th CES structural journeyman, proposed the idea for a new bathroom since the CE electric shop is set to receive more female Airmen.

“Before, there was no girls’ bathroom here,” Brekkestran said.  “We had to demolish an old office and start over from scratch.”

The bathroom project differed from the usual work orders that 19th CES Airman normally accomplish.

“Planning required much more than I thought, especially coordinating with Airmen from other CE career fields,” said Brekkestran. “It was much more in-depth than a regular job, but I look forward to the transformation.” 

Together, the Prime BEEF construction projects required more than 500 man-hours and totaled more than $25,000. But in the end, the Airmen accomplished the job through their own partnership without further assistance from other CE professionals. 

As the finishing touches are completed on the bathroom, 19th CES Airmen are already contemplating ideas for next year’s Prime BEEF project.

“This year was a success,” said Alvarez. “We’re glad to have this opportunity to train our Airmen. The project prepared 19th CES Airmen for deployments by allowing them to work together and become more self-reliant.”

TOP STORY >> Critical Days of Summer wrap-up

By Staff Sgt. Jessica Condit

19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

As the days cool down and summer comes to a close, Team Little Rock Airmen are tying up the loose ends of their summer activities this Labor Day weekend. The holiday weekend also marks the end of the last weekend of the Air Force’s Critical Days of Summer campaign as well. 

While the activity pace is slowing down, it does not come to a complete stop. Using the information taught during the Critical Days of Summer will continue to help Airmen and their families stay aware and alert of potential hazards while enjoying family time even after the summer season ends.

The Critical Days of Summer is an important Air Force initiative encompassing many different aspects of summer activities and focuses on preventative solutions during play. The safety recommendations are descriptive and include objectives that can be applied to nearly all activities. 

While the program is labeled as the Critical Days of Summer, many of these ideas can be used throughout the year in every day scenarios and during many other types of outdoor activities or adventures. The program’s safety practices benefit Airmen and their families year-round during the holidays while traveling, participating in fall or winter sports and many other activities.

“The Critical Days of Summer campaign is extremely effective at intensifying awareness of risks and sharing risk mitigation techniques,” said Lt. Col. Dawson Brumbelow, 19th Airlift Wing chief of safety. “There is a misperception that the end of the summer means the risks are gone; this is not true, the end of the summer simply diminishes the opportunities to engage in risky activities. The risk remains.” 

The safe practices and lessons we learned this summer should always be in the back of our minds and not a fading memory. Remember the Critical Days of Summer, and use the safety tips as often as needed in order to safely enjoy your personal and family time. 

TOP STORY >> Transmitting excellence

By Airman 1st Class Scott Poe

19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

Airfield systems teams play a vital role at each base in the Air Force. At Little Rock AFB, the 19th Operations Support Squadron airfield systems go above and beyond to ensure Team Little Rock’s C-130s are safe and only a radio call away. The 19th OSS works diligently to ensure aircrew keep in touch with the ground at all times through constant communication. 

The communication equipment is used continuously, which keeps airfield systems teams repairing and maintaining more than 40 radios, headsets, microphones and many other devices, all the way to the 110-foot antenna towers. They are also responsible for the enhanced telephone voice switch which routes nearly all communication going in and out of the air traffic control tower. 

The airfield systems team also carries the responsibility of maintaining and tuning the tactical air navigation system.

 “The TACAN acts as a lighthouse for aircraft and allows aircraft in the area to navigate through the air safely,” said Senior Airman Corey Rhoads, a 19th OSS airfield systems technician. 

 The system does this by transmitting various signals that tell the aircraft the direction and distance to the airfield. According to Rhoads, the TACAN is the most important piece of equipment they have. 

The team also maintains the glideslope and localizer which work together to tell the aircraft how to approach and land on the airfield regardless of the visibility. The localizer shows where the centerline of the runway is and where the aircraft is in reference to it, while glideslope gives the aircraft the angle to fly when approaching to land. These two tools are used by instruments in the aircraft flight deck so pilots can essentially land in low visibility.

“If a pilot had to land in low visibility and one of the systems was misaligned, it could be catastrophic,” said Rhoads.

Airfield systems plays a major role in keeping C-130s airborne and are critical to effective combat airlift. The 19th OSS airfield systems ensure continuous communications on the ground and in the skies.

TOP STORY>>A Wingman 24/7

By Airman 1st Class Mercedes Muro
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

Being a wingman is more than providing guidance and encouragement to other Airmen while supporting the Air Force mission. Sometimes an Airman has to be their own wingman to further maintain the Air Force mission.

Airmen can strengthen themselves by applying resilience skills learned in Wingman Day while coping with the ups and downs of life.

At Little Rock Air Force Base, Airmen of all ranks participate in Wingman Day to build and refresh resilience skills by doing various activities related to the Comprehensive Airman Fitness program.

“Wingman Day is a chance to step back from daily operations and focus on ourselves as Airmen,” said Stephanie Wynn, 19th Airlift Wing community support coordinator.

When a squadron conducts a Wingman Day, groups participate in activities that highlight the spiritual, mental, physical and social CAF domains. Other values such as the core values, dignity and respect are also emphasized.

“Wingman Day is successful because we do it as a group,” said Wynn. “People build resilience by being around other resilient people.”

Although Wingman Day is only held biannually, Airmen are encouraged to apply the skills they learn in their daily activities and lifestyle.

“It’s important to focus on each other,” said Wynn. “Every day Airmen should be focused on their wingmen because they themselves are wingmen 24/7.”

To learn more information about the resources offered during Wingman Day, contact Stephanie Wynn at (501) 987-1772.

TOP STORY>>Gut check

By Jeffery Vaughn
19th Aerospace Medical Squadron

Did you know that up to 70 percent of your immune system resides in your digestive tract? In addition, an unhealthy digestive tract may play a role in many of the chronic diseases Americans suffer from today.

An old Proverb states, “When diet is wrong, medicine is of no use. When diet is correct, medicine is of no need.” Truer words have never been written because what you eat determines the health of your digestive system and the health of your digestive tract plays a huge role on your total health.

The healthy gut is made up of trillions of bacteria called “flora” that assist in the digestive process among other things. When you truly begin to study the digestive system and the impact it has on total health, it can be a bit over whelming. A healthy digestive tract protects the body from infection, regulates metabolism, and promotes immune health. However, an unhealthy digestive system does just the opposite and is increasingly being linked to many of the chronic and autoimmune diseases plaguing America’s health.

The digestive system is designed to be a highly selective closed system. This means the digestive tract contains and maintains sensors that should only allow useful nutrients to exit the intestinal walls and enter the blood stream. However, research is telling us that certain foods and medicines increase the intestinal wall permeability allowing foreign matter to enter the blood stream and cause the immune system to act causing inflammation and potentially disease states. This increased permeability is often referred to as “leaky gut syndrome.”

While the medical community does not fully understand the causes or cures for leaky gut syndrome, they do know that certain things have the potential to improve and cause dysfunction in the digestive tract. The following tips may help improve the health of your digestive system and possibly improve your overall health.

1. Eliminate or reduce refined and processed foods in your diet. Many of these foods contain chemicals that have the potential to damage the intestinal lining.

2. Eat fermented foods like sauerkraut, kefir, kim chi, yogurt or learn how to make your own fermented vegetables. Fermented foods increase good gut bacteria and work better than probiotic supplements.

3. If fermented foods are not an option, probiotic supplements are an alternative choice and may increase good bacteria in the digestive tract, increasing the health of the digestive system.

4. Eliminate or greatly reduce refined sugar in your diet. Sugar can cause an overgrowth in yeast which is linked to increased permeability in the intestinal lining.

5. Eat foods high in fermentable fiber like sweet potatoes, yams and yuccas.

6. Eliminate or decrease gluten in your diet. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye and barley and can cause damage to the lining of the intestines in people with gluten sensitivity.

7. Increase the amount of Vitamin D in your diet by consuming fatty fish such as herring, mackerel, sardines and tuna. However the major source of Vitamin D for people (80-90 percent) comes from exposure to sunlight.

8. Increase zinc in your diet by eating pumpkin seeds, dark chocolate and rib meats.

9. Decrease stress. Make a worry list and determine everything that’s causing stress in your life. Take care of the things that can be solved easily and develop a plan for those things that will take time.

Incorporating the above steps into your routine will have a positive impact on your overall health allowing you to enjoy each day to the fullest extent.

TOP STORY>>Full-throttle Airman

By Airman 1st Class Cliffton Dolezal
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

When Staff Sgt. Joshua Ayers, a 19th Maintenance Squadron unit security manager, pulls up to the gate at the starting line with his 2008 Yamaha, he takes as many deep breaths as he can to focus and calm down before the gate drops. Instantly he’s full throttle heading into the first turn, where he will rev up his heart rate to anywhere between 170-190 beats per minute for the duration of the race.

But race day at the track is only a fraction of what motocross riders do.

Ayers must find time to wash and maintain his bike throughout the week, before and after every race weekend. While maintaining the condition of his bike is vital, Ayers must also sustain his physical fitness.

Ayers runs and lifts weights three or four times a week to ensure he’s both fit to ride as well as fit to fight.

“Because motocross is one of the gnarliest sports out there, you have to be in great shape,” said Ayers. “There is a lot of cardio and legs involved in the sport, so you have to make sure you’re doing squats and all different types of workouts to constantly keep getting stronger and improving your endurance to be physically and mentally prepared for race day.”

Controlling a dirt bike takes nearly every muscle in the body, soriders do a lot of full-body workouts, often combining two movements that involve different body parts. This gives them strength that’s sustainable through two races, the heat and the final, and makes it easier to survive the inevitable accidents that come with the sport.

Since his races are outdoors, Ayers runs and trains outside, in order to acclimate himself to the hot, muggy Arkansas weather.

Doing this allows Ayers body to believe the environmental stressor the race puts no his body are “normal.” When race day comes around he will be able to perform in the hot, humid environment, but he must remain properly hydrated to avoid other heat related injuries.

All the preparation gives the impression that flying off all those jumps and powering through ruts is easy.

“I grew up watching my dad race,” said Ayers. “Once he got into a real, full-blown race car, I just fell in love with it. My brothers and I decided right then and there that we were going to do that one day, and so we did.”

Ayers raced stock-cars for three years prior to enlisting in the Air Force but had always known that he would eventually come back to racing.

In 2009 Ayers met his brother in St. Louis, Missouri for a super-cross race. He had never seen one before. He loved it. Ayers was so hooked on it that he actually bought a bike on the way home from the race and started racing as soon as he could.

Although Ayers has been around racing his entire life and is very passionate about it, he also knows his limits.

“I try to race within my means,” said Ayers. “I know I have a job to come back to on Monday.”

Some of the competitors that Ayers races against are as young as 18 or 19 years old.

Ayers said that some of the competitors are able to take more chances and ride a little more dangerously than he is because they are in school or don’t have full-time jobs.

Although racing is only a hobby for Ayers, there is no doubt that the sport requires intense focus, determination and attention to detail; characteristics that Ayers said he has learned from the Air Force.

Ayers hopes to add to his trophy collection by winning another championship and one day qualify for the Amateur National’s one day.

Classifieds 082014

ANNOUNCEMENTS

THE COMBAT AIRLIFTER 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, Ark. 72078. You may also e-mail them to combatairlifterclassifieds@arkansasleader.com Deadline to advertise in Friday's issue is 5 p.m. Tuesday.

WANTED 10 Homes in your county needing SIDING, WINDOWS or ROOFS. We are  opening a branch office and will use these homes for our new brochure. If selected you can save hundreds of dollars. Call now to see if you qualify. 100 % Financing. Home Owners Only.  1-866-668-8681.

SAWMILLS from only $4397.00 - MAKE & SAVE MONEY with your own bandmill - Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. FREE Info/DVD: 1-800-578-1363 Ext.300N. www.NorwoodSawmills.com.

DO YOU LOVE ANIMALS? TRAIN TO BE  a Veterinary Technician,  800.383-4959, www.ChangeLives.com. Heritage College, 1309 Old Forge Dr. LR,  Heritage has applied for accreditation by the AVMA-Committee on Veterinary Tech Education and Activities. For important program info: please visit www.heritage-education.com/disclosures.

Medical Billing Trainees Needed! Become a Medical Office Assistant Now at Ayers Career College! Online job training gets you ready. HS Diploma/GED & Internet Required. 1-888-734-6717, Ayers.edu/disclosures. Licensed by ASBPCE. 8820 Jewella, Shv., LA 71108.


SERVICES

Bundle & Save on your TV, Internet, Phone!!! Call Bundle Deals NOW. Compare all Companies, Packages and Prices! Call 855-419_5096 TODAY!!

REDUCE YOUR CABLE BILL! Get a whole-home Satellite system installed at NO COST and programming starting at $19.99/mo. FREE HD/DVR Upgrade to new callers. CALL NOW 1-800-474-0423.

DISH TV Retailer. Starting at $19.99/month (for 12 mos.) & High Speed Internet starting at $14.95/month (where available.) SAVE! Ask About SAME DAY Installation! CALL Now! 1-800-393-5829.


YARD SALES

YARD SALE, 8/23, 7 am-noon, 31 Orchid Ln., Cabot. Everything must go.


HELP WANTED

ATTENTION: NO EXPERIENCE, $350 plus a week, Simply to test air quality in residential homes on professionally booked appointments. Afternoons and evenings. Call Mon.-Fri. from 9 am-5 pm for interview at (501) 605-1303.

HELP WANTED -  HOLTGER BROS., INC. locally owned & operated since 1946 Immediate Construction Opportunities - Cable Plow/Bore, Rig Operators, Aerial Technician, CDL Laborer, Foreman. Travel required. 1-800-831-0754. www.Holtger.com EOE by AA.

CAREGIVERS NEEDED! Visiting Angels. Local In-Home Helping Seniors remain independent. Flexible hours to your schedule. Must be 21+ yrs., State certification required. Call 501-225-5101.

"Can You Dig It?" Heavy Equipment Operator Training! 3Wk Hands On Program. Bulldozers, Backhoes, Excavators. Lifetime Job Placement Assistance w/National Certifications. VA Benefits Eligible! 1-866-362-6497.

ATTN: Drivers - $$ RECENT PAY INCREASE $$ 4 CPM Raise for Every Driver + Bonuses. 401k + Insurance. Paid Training/Orientation. CDL-A Req. 877-258-8782 www.Ad-Drivers.com.

25 DRIVER TRAINEES NEEDED NOW! Become a driver for TMC Transportation! Earn $700 per week! No CDL? No Problem! Training is available! 1-888-248-1948.

15 TRUCK DRIVER TRAINEES NEEDED NOW! Become a driver for Empire Express. NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED! New Drivers can earn $800+ per week! Call for details! 1-888-778-0465.

DRIVERS- CDL DRIVERS - NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED! Schneider National is the best place to begin your career. NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED! We can get you trained! 1-888-528- 5548.


HORSES

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


RECREATIONAL VEHICLES

2007 VULCAN 500, 3,254 miles, new tires & battery 10/13, $2,800 obo. (405) 795-9294.

ELECTRIC SCOOTER for older kids, new batteries, charger, trunk, 15 mph, $150. (719) 351-4979.


ITEMS FOR SALE

PIPE THREADER, ratcheting hand-type, 1/8" thru 1 1/4", dies w/reamer & pipe-cutter, $75. 847-1545, Bryant.

POOL TABLE: 7' solid slate pool table, felt is worn but still plays well, all accessories included, need the space, $500. (501) 628-8755, Jen.

WEDDING DRESS, white, halter, chapel length, size 14, $275. (719) 351-4979.


FURNITURE

CRIB w/attached changer, converts into toddler bed, good condition, mattress included, $125. Call/text: (501) 786-3803.


LOTS & ACREAGE

LOT FOR Sale: 715 Cobblestone, NLR. Extremely motivated seller!!! $55,000. Contact Keith Montgomery, Keller-Williams Realty. (501) 231-9503.


HOUSES FOR RENT

JAX. - SUMMER Special - $0 Deposit on all 3 bedroom, 2 bath mobile homes in park. $500-$550 per month. Call (501) 744-4668.

$0 DEPOSIT, Jax. - 1 bedroom camper in park, $400 month, all utilities paid except propane. Call (501) 744-4668.

TRIPLEX: 3 brand new units available in Cabot. 2 bedroom, 2 bath, $700 mo. (501) 259-4944.

UNFURNISHED HOUSE - Sherwood, 3 bedroom, 1 1/2 bath, central heat & air, washer/dryer connections, quiet neighborhood, $700 month, $600 deposit. Contact Pat (501) 951-1023.

CABOT: 3 bedroom, 2 baths, approx. 1800 sq. ft. All new stainless steel appliances in kitchen. New fixtures & ceiling fans. Master bath has his & hers closets and vanity sinks. $1275 mo., $1275 dep. No smoking, pets negotiable. (501) 628-1225.


HOUSES FOR SALE

Cabot/Pulaski county - 3 bedroom 2 bath HOUSE with SHOP on 1 acre, handicap ramp, newly remodeled, 1754 sq. ft., $128,500. Minutes from LRAFB. Call (501) 658-7277.

4 BEDROOM, 2 bath, 1550 sq. ft., completely updated to new condition. Fenced backyard, covered patio on 1/4 acre lot in nice neighborhood, $97,900. Call (501) 681-3414.

FOR SALE near base - $54,900. 6221 Jacksonville Cutoff Road, approximately 3 miles from base. 3 bedroom, 1 bath, gas stove, central air, workshop, recently remodeled, 1/2 acre. Call Steve, (501) 681-8337.

3312 PINE Valley Dr., Sherwood 72120. 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2140 sq. ft., sunroom, 5 acres, 36x40 barn or shop, fence, granite, dual fuel, large deck. Minutes from back gate of LRAFB. Restricted area. (501) 590-2509.

BEAUTIFUL 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1524 sq. ft. in Cabot, $129,500, 22 Applewood Dr. Call (501) 804-8847.

985 COLONIAL Drive, Jacksonville - $164,900, 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1912 sq. ft., open floor plan, gas log fireplace, minutes from LRAFB. Call Carole Smith, Crye-Leike, NLR, (501) 351-5903.

OPEN HOUSE, August 24th, 2 pm-4 pm, 22 Applewood Dr., Cabot, AR, 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1524 sq. ft., $129,500.

Briefs 082014

Closures and hours of operation for holiday weekend announced

There will be an Air Mobility Command family Day on Friday, Aug. 29 in conjunction with the Labor Day weekend. This is a list of closures and alternate hours for the holiday weekend.
The following services/sections/units will be closed Aug. 29 - Sept. 1
19th Medical Group
Base Legal Office
Finance
Military Personnel Section
Airman and Family Readiness Center
Thomas Community Activities Center
CDC in Bldg. 1257
Family Child Care
 Hangar 1080
The base commissary will have normal hours Aug. 29 - 31 but will be closed Sept. 1. The Hercules Dining Facility will have normal hours. The following 19th Force Support unit/sections/services will have alternate hours Aug. 29
Sept. 1: bowling center, CDC in Bldg. 1990, fitness center, golf course, ITT, the library, outdoor recreation, the skills center, and the youth center. Please visit www.rockinattherock.com for specific hours of operations.

Gate closures until October

Due to construction, the Arnold/107 Gate is closed and will remain closed until approximately the beginning of October. To assist with traffic, the Harris Road (School) Gate will continue 24-hour operations and the Vandenburg Gate will remain open.

Firing range complex off limits

The Combat Arms small arms firing range complex on Little Rock Air Force Base is off limits to all unauthorized personnel.
Anyone requiring access to the ranges or surrounding areas during and after duty hours is required to contact the range control in building 1393 or at 501-987-6861 prior to entry as per posted guidance at the range entrance.

Munitions Storage Area closure

The Munitions Storage Area will be closed Sept. 1-26 for the semi-annual 100 percent stockpile inventory.
During this time, the MSA will only process emergency requests. Please forward all questions to Master Sgt. Dunlap at 501-987-6031.

‘I’m a U.S. citizen and a U.S. Airman...wow’

By Senior Airman Regina Agoha

19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs 

Senior Airman Regina Ahiable, a 19th Medical Operations Squadron aerospace medical technician, came to the United States with a plan: leave the country and family whom she loved and embark on an opportunity that could afford her the chance to make a huge difference in her community.

Ahiable was born and raised in the west African nation of Ghana. Life there was good, she said. She had a normal upbringing and was well-educated. She graduated from college with an agriculture engineer degree.

Seeking better education opportunities, Ahiable decided the next chapter of her life would need to be in America. Ahiable was selected by the luck of the draw in the Diversity Visa Lottery, which is a U.S. congressionally-mandated lottery program for receiving a U.S. Permanent Resident Card, and she arrived in America February 2010. 

Leaving her parents, six sisters and one brother was not easy, said Ahiable. This was not a short vacation or four-year college trip. Ahiable left her family without a notion of when she’d return. And though her vision for the future of her Ghanaian community was vibrant, the tough goodbye to her family made the first step a little hard. 

“I cried the whole flight here,” she said. “I missed my family terribly. I still do, but it does get better.”

With her priorities in place, Ahiable hit the American soil running. Fifteen months after residing in America, she was on her way to San Antonio, Texas, to transform herself into an Airman at Basic Military Training.

A year later, Ahiable became an American citizen and said that day was one of the best days of her life. 

“That day was a huge deal for me because there are so many Ghanaians who want to become American citizens,” she said. “It is a very difficult process. My family could not make it, but they were extremely proud of me and happy for me.”

As Ahiable’s concentration continued, her vision became clearer.

“For me, staying focused was not difficult,” she said. “I was 25 when I got here, and I had already been to college, so my mindset was already developed. Discipline is a way of life in Ghana. It is a huge part of our culture.”

Ahiable’s instilled discipline is manifested in her ability to accomplish her goals. 

First, she is a below-the-zone recipient, which is an honor given to top notch Airmen, promoting them to senior airmen ahead of their peers. Second, she recently made the rank of staff sergeant her first time taking the Weighted Airman Promotion System test. And now, she is one of 42 Air Force selectees for the 2014 Nurse Enlisted Commissioning Program. Airmen selected for this program are assigned to an Air Force ROTC detachment while they attend school. 

Because Ahiable already earned her degree, she will be participating in an accelerated program, which means instead of the normal two-year program, hers will be 16 months.

Ahiable said she is very humbled by everything she’s accomplished so far but does not take any of the credit.

“I think about where I come from, and I know God has brought me this far,” she said.

Ahiable’s advice to Airmen who have goals is to be specific.

“Put specific goals on paper,” she said. “Never sell yourself short. If something is your passion, give it the best you can possibly give, and pray about it.”

Ahiable said she has pride when wearing the Air Force uniform as an American Airman.

“I can say I’m a U.S. citizen and a U.S. Airman… wow,” she said. “I am thankful.”

After her military career, Ahiable’s ultimate goal is to return to Ghana and help with her community’s health care. She wishes to provide obstetrician/gynecologist care to the women there for free.

Unforgiving Arkansas weather

By Airman 1st Class Scott Poe

19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

Arkansas weather can sometimes be relentless, dishing out stifling heat, tornadoes, floods, lightning, high winds and damaging hail during the summer months. 

Arkansas has many heat and tornado-related weather threats.

According to the National Weather Service, heat is one of the most deadly weather-related occurrences. Heat stroke and heat exhaustion are common during the summer season. The average high for Arkansas during June, July and August is right below or above 90 degrees.

“The people that are at a higher risk of heat exhaustion or stroke are people who work out on the flightline and people who are working outside a lot,” said Master Sgt. Albert Beckwith, a 19th Airlift Wing Safety ground safety technician. “To help prevent heat exhaustion and stroke, drink plenty of water and try to use proper work-rest cycles.”  

Beckwith stated that one should know the signs of heat exhaustion and stroke. Noticing the signs early can prevent serious medical issues later.

 The warning signs of heat exhaustion are heavy sweating, weakness, nausea, fainting, fast pulse and clammy skin. Heat stroke, the more serious of the two, has symptoms of hot dry or moist skin, red face, rapid and strong pulse, a high body temperature above 103 degrees and possible unconsciousness. This is a medical emergency. Call 911 immediately if you suspect a heat stroke.

Heat is not the only dangerous weather though. Recently Arkansas was the host to an EF-4 tornado that ripped through Mayflower and Vilonia killing 16 people. 

“During the spring months tornadoes are our biggest threat coupled with severe thunderstorms,” said Senior Airman Robert Cantu, a 19th Operations Support Squadron weather technician. “These storms can produce large hail and damaging winds greater than 50 knots.”

It is always good to know where a safe place is or where to go during a tornado warning.

 According to the American Red Cross, the safest place to be is an underground shelter, basement or safe room. If no underground shelter or safe room is available, a small, windowless interior room or hallway on the lowest level of a sturdy building is the safest alternative. If you are caught outdoors, seek shelter in a basement, shelter or sturdy building. If you get caught in your car, you have two options. Stay in the car with the seat belt on and put your head down below the windows, covering with your hands and a blanket if possible. Or if you can safely get noticeably lower than the level of the roadway, exit your car and lie in that area, covering your head with your hands.

“We advise that everyone take the tornado siren seriously,” said Cantu. 

When the tornado sirens sound, it means the area is under an imminent threat. In other words, a tornado has been spotted or identified on radar.  Cantu said everyone should take the appropriate actions and remain in a safe place until the base intercom system (Giant Voice) has indicated the threat has passed.

Know what the forecast has in store so you can be ready and plan around it. The sirens don’t lie. Take cover when they sound. Stay hydrated and cool when hot weather heats up the Natural State.  

In the thick of it: 34th Combat Training Squadron

By Airman 1st Class Harry Brexel

19th Airlift Wing Public Affiars

Recently, I was able to witness one of the combat exercises that the 34th Combat Training Squadron conducts at the Joint Readiness Training Center in Ft. Polk, Louisiana.

The mission of the 34th CTS is to provide tailored joint mobility training to produce combat-ready Airmen and Soldiers. The squadron conducts Green Flag Little Rock at Little Rock Air Force Base as well as from two out-of-state detachments located at Ft. Polk and Ft. Leavenworth, Kansas. 

The purpose of GFLR is to exercise and evaluate the combat readiness of Air Force strategic airlift. GFLR also provides an opportunity to train with partner forces while in a simulated deployed environment.

But this was not just another routine exercise for the 34th CTS. 

For the first time, C-130 aircrew members from another 19th Airlift Wing squadron would be on the ground, training for a scenario where their plane went down in a hostile environment. 

Three loadmasters and one pilot, all from the 41st Airlift Squadron volunteered to be dropped in the middle of the Louisiana wilderness to test their survival, evasion, resistance and escape skills. 

The team of four was monitored by two Team Little Rock SERE instructors who followed the group throughout their trek through Louisiana’s sub-tropical climate.

“These guys are used to flying and conducting airdrops,” said Tech Sgt. John Conant, 34th CTS SERE specialist. “They can experience what it is like from the ground and see the importance of dropping cargo on the target.”  

The first day started early. Members from the 34th CTS, other 19th AW squadrons and I were up at 3 a.m. to prepare for departure. 

First there were pre-flight briefings informing the crew of weather conditions, flight patterns and simulated enemy threats in the vicinity of Ft. Polk. 

Then, we loaded up in a Humvee and the vehicle was loaded into the back of a C-130J, with inches to spare on either side. 

After an hour of flying, we landed at Alexandria International Airport and drove roughly 45 minutes to arrive at Ft. Polk.  

Ft. Polk was unlike anything I’d ever seen before. For starters, the post is massive. It consumes approximately 200,000 acres of land, including the Kisatchie National Forest. 

When we arrived, signs of an actual contingency operation could be seen everywhere. 

Once inside, we passed huge convoys of Army Humvees and tanks. An assortment of tactical vehicles could be seen including Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles, tankers and all-terrain vehicles.

There was even a simulated village that looked and felt worlds away from the Louisiana that I had seen.  We passed through the village on our way to meet up with the SERE team. Signs were in foreign languages, and there were Afghans as well as Americans dressed up as villagers.

We passed huts with women in cultural attire in front of them, selling accessories. Even a goat or two could be seen roaming the streets. 

By the time we met up with the SERE instructors and students, they had been in the wilderness the entire night and day before.

The team was using multiple devices to signal an Air Force C-130 to their location. 

The C-130 roared overhead and dropped a sandbag that simulated much-needed supplies. 

“When these four Airmen are flying, dropping a pallet on target is almost like a game,” said Tech Sgt. Justin McCaffrey, 19th Operations Support Squadron SERE noncommissioned officer in charge. “But when they’ve been out here, they realize how important it is to be on target. You could be shot when retrieving the cargo.”

After the team successfully retrieved their cargo, they hiked through the woods to get closer to their destination. 

 “This part of the exercise will teach the Airmen to do whatever it takes to get out of hostile territory, as well as being stealthy, silent and hidden when in a chaotic environment,” said Lt. Col. Russell Parramore, 34th CTS detachment operating location alpha commander.

As part of their hike, the SERE students snuck past foreign military police and a crowded village. Again, they began hiking the wilderness toward their final destination- the landing zone.

Once we reached the landing zone, the Airmen contacted nearby Soldiers for a quick extraction. 

Parramore set off several smoke grenades, and within minutes, there were two UH-60 Black Hawks circling overhead. 

“It is important to know how to communicate with other Airmen as well as Soldiers in a deployed environment,” said Conant. 

The helicopters landed and a team of Soldiers surrounded the extraction point as well as our small group, to determine any potential threats. 

After the Airmen and Soldiers spoke with each other, all of the troops were prepared to board the Black Hawks.

 We ran through flying blades of grass and falling branches and jumped onto the aircraft. 

Within seconds we were strapped into place and soaring over the vast wilderness. Apache attack helicopters could be seen flying nearby, to ensure protection. 

After the ride, the SERE students and their instructors disembarked the Black Hawk and were debriefed by several Soldiers. 

When their mission was completed, the Airmen reflected on their experience and said that they had all learned something. 

 “Before, I was one of those loadmasters who would see an airdrop as another routine job,” said Airman 1st Class Dustin Thomerson. “But after being out here, you really get a sense of how important performing each airdrop is to the people below.” 

All aircrew Airmen are required to go through SERE training. But after initial schooling, Airmen are only required to attend a SERE refresher training every three years.

 “But this opportunity was not a requirement,” said Conant. “These Airmen volunteered to practice SERE skills in a new environment, and they were able to make their own decisions out here, instead of being guided or instructed the whole way.” 

The general consensus from the four students was that they garnered experience and new perspective, all while seeming to have a great time, throughout the unique combat training exercise. Being a part of Green Flag Little Rock gave the Airmen an opportunity to see what they do every day yet from a different viewpoint. 

 “This team of Airmen has paved the way for other Team Little Rock members to learn new skills and techniques in working with our integral Army partners,” said Lt. Col. Steve Smith, 34th CTS commander. “Hopefully in the future, we can have more Airmen come down and experience what this group accomplished over the past two days.”

Sometimes when completing daily tasks and duties, it is easy to forget what combat airlift is all about. Seeing the 34th CTS put all that training into action emphasized the global importance that combat airlift holds. 

TOP STORY>>Sustaining the fleet for the future

U.S. Air Force photos by Airman 1st Class Scott Poe

The 19th Maintenance Squadron aircraft structural maintenance corrosion control element keeps C-130s looking new over the horizon. The corrosion control element is responsible for preventing and repairing corrosion. When a C-130 starts to show signs of deterioration, the corrosion control element is quick to sand it down, smooth it out, prime it and then apply a fresh coat of paint.

The prep work that goes into painting can take hours or even days; depending on the size of the job and the amount of Airmen on the job. The team must cover all the parts not to be sanded or painted and then strip any unwanted paint away. Next they use a solvent to wipe off the entire object to keep it free of dust and debris. This makes for a sharp paint job.

The corrosion control element paints anything from wheels to wings. They also keep aerospace ground equipment looking like new. Creating decals and tail flashes is also in their realm of expertise.

Safety is a huge part of working with all the chemicals and flammable materials they use. Personal protective equipment is used when dealing with these hazardous materials. From head to toe, Airmen stay shielded from the carcinogenic elements by wearing Tyvek suits, forced air respirators and nitrile gloves. Safety is serious and is strictly implemented. In fact, in order to document their work, the photographer is also required to get qualified to wear a respirator. While wearing the respirator, the photographer must also have to wear a Tyvek suit and gloves. The corrosion control element keeps the mission going and all Team Little Rock C-130s looking their best.

TOP STORY>>ALS: Making tomorrow’s leaders today

By Airman 1st Class Cliffton Dolezal
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

Legendary football coach Vince Lombardi said “Leaders aren’t born they are made. And they are made just like anything else, through hard work.”

Airmen Leadership School is making tomorrow’s Air Force enlisted leaders today.

ALS is a five-week-long program designed to develop Airmen into effective front-line supervisors. ALS focuses on developing leadership abilities, the profession of arms, and building effective communication.

“This course is designed to wear you down, stress you out and make you believe that you can adapt and overcome anything that comes your way as a supervisor,” said Staff Sgt. Jennifer Fiandt, a 19th Force Support Squadron professional military education instructor.

Senior airmen with at least 48 months, of time in service in the Air Force or those with a line number for staff sergeant are eligible for ALS. The Airmen must also have at least six months retainability from the projected class graduation before being enrolled.

“It’s a nice thing to have to develop and become an NCO,” said Senior Airman Christina Champion, a 19th Operations Squadron flight equipment journeyman.

Airmen often feel anxious about what to expect when entering ALS other than learning the ins and outs of supervision. Fiandt listed a few pieces of advice for incoming Airmen.

“If you come in with an open mind, a good attitude, and time management skills, you will make it out alive,” said Fiandt.

The ALS mission is to prepare senior airmen to be professional, warfighting Airmen, able to supervise and lead Air Force members to support the employment of the air, space and cyberspace power.

With several years in the Air Force Staff Sgt. Fiandt had experienced good and bad supervisors. Those experiences drove her to become a PME instructor and to try and be an example of what a good supervisor looks like.

ALS is the first level of PME that enlisted Airmen complete as they progress through their Air Force careers.

“They definitely set you up for success,” said Champion. “I have slearned things my supervisor didn’t provide me with, and I get to go back and have that information for my troops.”

The highlight of the graduation ceremony is the John Levitow Award ceremony. The John Levitow Award is the highest award presented at ALS; it is consider the pinnacle of success in ALS and enlisted PME by many Airmen. The Levitow Award is presented to the student that demonstrated the most outstanding leadership and scholastic qualities. Selection for the Levitow Award is based on academic performance and assignment of points by peers and instructors.

Every Airmen who graduates is now authorized to wear the NCO Development Ribbon, and perhaps that is rewarding enough, because with it comes the responsibility to lead.

“My favorite part, however, is when I run into the Airmen down the road, and they tell me how they used the skills we taught them,” said Fiandt. “It’s very rewarding.”

TOP STORY>>The natural resources man in his natural habitat

Article and photos by Airman 1st Class Scott Poe
Roaming through the woods, checking out the vegetation and wildlife on base, or hanging out on top of building 450 watching the Interior Least Terns, are a couple places you may find James Popham.

Popham, the 19th Civil Engineer Squadron natural resources manager, has been a roving ambassador for the woods and wildlife at Little Rock Air Force Base for almost 20 years.

As an enlisted Airman, Popham held numerous jobs that were heavily involved with animals and natural resources. He started his military journey as a veterinary technician. He then became a laboratory animal technician at Brooks AFB, Texas.

After six years enlisted in the Air Force, Popham went to Texas A&M University to finish his degree in wildlife management. Popham worked for the Soil Conservation Service before deciding to come back to the Air Force as an officer.

After a combine total of over 20 years in the Air Force including time in the reserves, he took an early retirement in 1994. Six months later he came to Little Rock AFB to become the natural resources manager.

“I have always been interested in all kinds of wildlife,” said Popham. “When I was a kid growing up I spent a lot of time outdoors exploring the woods around our neighborhood.”

Popham now manages all the forestry on base including urban and commercial forestry. He reviews all construction plans to make sure they don’t interfere with endangered or threatened species and other natural resources.

“I became a wildlife biologist because I love the great outdoors and all the plants and animals,” said Popham. “I want to protect and conserve this fantastic beauty for all generations.”

He works with soil and water conservation, as well as noise pollution. He helps manage pesticides and then evaluates the impacts pesticides have on the base ecosystem.

The hunting and fishing programs on base are also Popham’s work. Currently he is preparing to do a deer census in the fall to track the population growth of the deer herd at Little Rock AFB.

Popham dictates when to conduct prescribed burns and tries to keep them on a seven-year cycle. This helps clear built up debris such as leaves and fallen branches. It also promotes healthy undergrowth.

His hobbies are probably exactly what you would expect. He likes to spend a lot of time outdoors by riding bikes, hiking and bird watching. His other passion is his family. He loves spending time with his kids and grandkids as well as traveling.

Popham said he is a very busy man. He manages all the natural resource programs on base including land management, fish and wildlife management, and soil and water conservation.

“My job is important because I help protect the precious natural resources our nation entrusted us with on base, which allows us to enable premier combat airlift,” said Popham.

Part of his repertoire is also handling delicate cultural resources. These include historical and archeological resources as well as consulting with Native American tribes affiliated with the base.

Even after serving in the Air Force for more than 20 years and nearly 20 years here at Little Rock AFB, he shows no signs of slowing down or retiring.

“I think I’m still too young to retire and I’m not rich enough to retire,” said Popham. “I just enjoy what I am doing.”

Popham recently won the 19th Airlift Wing’s Civilian Category II quarterly award for his outstanding dedication and contributions to the Team Little Rock community.

TOP STORY>>15 seconds: A rude awakening

By Airman 1st Class Cliffton Dolezal
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

Gut wrenching screams. The shattering of glass the unforgettable sounds of metal twisting and bending all around me. My Ford Ranger rolling over and over and over again. I thought those were going to be my last memories.

April 12, 2012, started out like any other Thursday for me. I woke up early enough to take a quick shower and grab some breakfast before heading out the door for work. I was working a double that day, so I made sure to grab a coffee.

It was a 45-minute drive to work, which gave me time to finish my cup of joe and relax before I spent the rest of the day on my feet.

Halfway through my shift, I received a call from my girlfriend, who was elated to find out that her classes on Friday had been canceled, and she would have a three-day weekend. Any other time I would have told her I was on my way and then instantly jumped in my vehicle to make the three-and-a-half-hour trek to Ball State University to bring her home. Instead, I decided to tell her I had to work, and that I wouldn’t be able to make it until Friday night. I was lying. I wanted to surprise her.

After finishing up my shift I made the 45-minute drive back to my house and got myself ready to make the long drive to Muncie, Indiana. I asked my sister if she’d like to join me to surprise Nicole; she sarcastically said she had nothing better to do, so we hopped in the Ranger and were on our way.

I remember not feeling as tired as I had thought I was going to be, especially after working a 16-hour shift. In hindsight, I’m sure I was just too eager to surprise Nicole and unable to perceive the actual feelings of drowsiness and lethargy that were slowly creeping over me.

Once we arrived at BSU and surprised Nicole, we helped her pack her things and loaded them into the truck.

We hit the road around midnight. We talked and laughed most of the way home, but it was late. Before too long my sister had fallen asleep in the back of the truck, and Nicole had laid her head on my shoulder and fell asleep as well.

After 30 minutes of driving without someone to keep me company, the fatigue of 16 hours of work and more than seven hours spent on the road started to settle in.

With the heat blowing full blast to keep the frigid 30-degree, Indiana weather at bay, no music, and no one to talk to, my eyes started to grow heavy and my concentration slowly deteriorated.

My head started to bob, and my eyes shut as we started to cross over the shoulder of the road. I quickly awoke by feeling the roughness of the shoulder and pulled the truck back onto the road. I looked over at my sister and Nicole to see if they had woken up during our little detour, but they hadn’t moved an inch.

Little did they know the worst was yet to come.

That sluggish, drowsy feeling had begun to come over me again. As we crossed the county line I remember saying, “We’ll be home in 10 minutes guys!” I was so tired I don’t remember if I actually said it or just thought I said it.

After seven plus hours of driving I started to develop throttle foot, so I put the cruise control on. I remember stretching and thinking about lying down in bed and sleeping for hours on end. The thought had gotten the best of me, and I got my wish.

I was asleep.

Flying down Highway 10, with the cruise control set to 60 mph, my 2008 Ford Ranger started to creep across the centerline carrying myself and my two passengers to an unknown fate. We were now completely in the other lane of oncoming traffic, but the Ranger still continued to pull left taking us off the shoulder and onto the bank of a 10-foot ditch. With the Ranger almost riding completely on the left two tires, I woke up. Staring right at me as I regained consciousness was a telephone poll about 15 yards from us. I gripped the wheel and ripped it to the right. We immediately turned up the ditch, still traveling at 60 mph, and the truck began rolling onto the driver side of the vehicle.

Nicole and my sister were abruptly woken up by the sound of breaking glass, the deployment of the airbags, and the positive and negative G-forces as the Ranger slammed into the earth. We were rolling over and over again, only stopped by a tree 40 yards from where we had originally started rolling.

The whole thing lasted about 15 seconds, but it seemed like hours.

After we came to a complete stop, we were upside down with the driver’s side pinned against a tree. I released my seatbelt slamming against the roof of the vehicle. After a verbal check to see if everyone was alright, I began kicking out the front windshield and helped Nicole and my sister out of the vehicle.

Once out of the Ranger, we ran up to the road and flagged down the next vehicle we saw to call 911.

We were lucky. Nicole, my sister and I all walked away from this horrific accident with only minor injuries.

According to the National Sleep Foundation’s 2005 “Sleep in America” poll, 60 percent of adult drivers, (about 168 million people) say they have driven a vehicle while feeling drowsy in the past year, and more than one-third, (37 percent or 103 million people), have actually fallen asleep at the wheel. In fact, of those who have nodded off, 13 percent say they have done so at least once a month. Four percent (approximately eleven million drivers) admit they have had an accident or near accident because they dozed off or were too tired to drive.

Here are some tips to help fight fatigue while driving.

Sleep- Get at least eight hours of sleep prior to a long drive.

Sit up straight- Slouching down in a seat can promote sleepiness.

Take a break- For every two or three hours of driving, try to pull over and get at least 20 minutes of rest or even take a nap if you can.

Avoid heavy meals- Larger meals tend to make us feel lethargic. If you have to eat try and keep it light when driving long distances.

Caffeine- One to two cups of coffee is actually good for you and a better alternative that carbonated beverages such as pop and energy drinks.

Hopefully these tips help avoid accidents that often result from driver fatigue. An alert driver is a safe driver. Remember to practice safety. Don’t learn it by accident.A

TOP STORY>>Taking off with Space-A

By Airman 1st Class Mercedes Muro
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

Today’s modern world allows many methods of travel. Some people prefer cars and others prefer planes.

Little Rock Air Force Base has a special program that allows qualified individuals an unconventional way of travel by a program called Space-Available.

Space-Available travel allows authorized passengers to travel by Department of Defense owned and operated aircraft after mission and cargo space have been accommodated.

“It’s a great military benefit,” said Tech Sgt. Matthew Michels, a 19th Logistics Readiness Squadron aircraft services supervisor. “It gives you the opportunity to travel for really cheap.”

People can place a request to the passenger terminal here at Little Rock AFB.

The terminal accepts emails, phone calls, and walk-in requests for flights. The earlier a request is submitted for a flight, the more likely a seat will be available.

“Space-A is first-come, first-serve,” said Michels. “We’re not like a regular airline where you can call, make a reservation, and book a seat.”

Even though Space-A is a military benefit, other individuals with the right qualifications can fly through Space-A.

“Active-duty, Guard, Reservists, and retirees can fly though Space-A,” said Michels. “Duty (DOD) civilians can travel through Space-A with orders.”

Dependents can also fly with their sponsors, if space is available.

“Active-duty and retirees are allowed to bring their dependents on a flight,” said Michels. “However, Guard and Reservists can’t bring their dependents onto a flight.”

Even though there are many rules and regulations for Space-A, it is a cheaper travel alternative for military members to use to their advantage.

“Space-A is a wonderful program for people who can be flexible and patient with their travel plans,” said Michels.

For more information about Space-A and its opportunities, call (501) 987-3342 or visit their websites at www.spacea.net or www.littlerock.af.mil/19thlrspassengerterminal/index.asp.