During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we recognize

the significant achievements we have made in reducing

domestic violence in America, and we recommit ourselves to

the important work still before us. Despite tremendous

progress, an average of three women in America die as a

result of domestic violence each day. One in four women and

one in thirteen men will experience domestic violence in their

lifetime. These statistics are even more sobering when we

consider that domestic violence often goes unreported.

The ramifications of domestic violence are staggering. Young

women are among the most vulnerable, suffering the highest

rates of intimate partner violence. Exposure to domestic

violence puts our young men and women in danger of long-

term physical, psychological, and emotional harm. Children

who experience domestic violence are at a higher risk for

failure in school, emotional disorders, and substance abuse,

and are more likely to perpetuate the cycle of violence

themselves later in life.

My Administration is working not only to curb domestic

violence, but to bring it to an end. Last year, we announced

an unprecedented coordinated strategy across Federal

agencies to prevent and stop violence against women. We are

empowering survivors to break the cycle of abuse with

programs to help them become financially independent. We

have prevented victims of domestic violence from being

evicted or denied assisted housing after abuse. And we are

promoting tools for better enforcement of protective orders,

while helping survivors gain access to legal representation.

In addition, as part of the Affordable Care Act, the

Department of Health and Human Services announced

historic new guidelines that will ensure women receive

preventive health services without additional cost, including

domestic violence screening and counseling. The Affordable

Care Act also ensures that insurance companies can no longer

classify domestic violence as a pre-existing condition.

Last December, I reauthorized the Child Abuse Prevention

and Treatment Act, giving communities life-saving tools to

help identify and treat child abuse or neglect. It also supports

shelters, service programs, and the National Domestic

Violence Hotline, linking tens of thousands of victims every

Presidential Proclamation--National Domestic Violence Awareness Month

month to the resources needed to reach safety. I encourage

victims, their loved ones, and concerned citizens to use this

hotline for more information at 1-800-799-SAFE or visit

www.TheHotline.org.

This is not just a job for government; it is a job for all of

us. Vice President Joe Biden's "1is2many" initiative reminds

us that everyone has a part to play in ending violence against

youth. By engaging men and women, mothers and fathers, and

schools and universities in the fight, we can teach our children

about healthy relationships. We are asking everyone to play an

active role in preventing and ending domestic violence, by

stepping up to stop violence when they see it. During National

Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we recommit to making

sure that no one suffers alone, and to assisting those who need

help in reaching a safer tomorrow.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the

United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in

me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do

hereby proclaim October 2011 as National Domestic Violence

Awareness Month. I call on all Americans to speak out against

domestic violence and support local efforts to assist victims of

these crimes in finding the help and healing they need.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this

third day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand

eleven, and of the Independence of the United States of

America the two hundred and thirty-sixth.

BARACK OBAMA

October 2012

Family Times

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Director’s Corner………………..………………….....2

Newcomers/ACS Directory……………..….................2

AFAP/AFTB/MRT.…......…..………..………….........3

ERP-Asking for a Raise………………………….........4

FAP/EFMP SHARP/SOS……………………………..5

FRP-Payday Loans…………........................................6

Halloween Safety………...............................................7

Relo/Mob/Dep….…………..........................................8

Wellness Corner…...….....................…………………9

Calendar……………….....................………………..10

AFAP Issue Book…………………………….......11-14

In This Issue

ACS Programs & Staff Family Advocacy/EFMP Vincent DiMaira 718-630-4460 Financial Readiness 718-630-4754 Front Desk/Information & Referral Magda Lawrence 718-630-4754 Lending Closet Madeline Pastorella 718-630-4754 Relocation Readiness Madeline Pastorella 718-630-4462 Sexual Assault & Victim Advocacy Vincent DiMaira 718-630-4460 Survivor Outreach Services 718-630-4754

ACS Director Carmen Borrero 718-630-4457 Army Emergency Relief 718-630-4754 Army Family Team Building John Mapes 718-630-4498 Army Family Action Plan John Mapes 718-630-4498 Army Volunteer Corps Joseph Gamez 718-630-4756 Deployment Readiness Madeline Pastorella 718-630-4462 Employment Readiness Joseph Gamez 718-630-4756

Director’s Corner

Fall has arrived and the weather is beautiful, enjoy it while it last. At the end of this month’s ACS

Newsletter you will find attached, the AFAP Issue Booklet, it contains the Prioritized Issues from

the 2011 Survivor Outreach Services Conference, the Youth Conference, and the AFAP

Conference. This booklet outlines the Scope, the Recommendation, and the Status of the Issues

submitted in 2011 from all three conferences.

If you have an issue or suggestion to improve the quality of life in the Army, fill out an AFAP

Issue Form at the following locations: Army Community Service, Barber Shop, Belfour Beatty

Communities, Bowling Center, Child Development Center, Community Club, Fitness Center, ID

Section, Post Office, Reserve Center, and Visitor Control Center. If you prefer, submit an issue on-

line visit: http://www.hamiltonmwr.com/afap_form.php.

Have a great Columbus Day!

Carmen E. Borrero, ACS Director

ACS Conference Room Bldg. 137-C Poly Place, 1st Floor

Please call to reserve your seat (718) 630-4754

October 25, 2012 Attend Our Newcomer’s Orientation

New to Ft. Hamilton?

Followed by a complimentary lunch at the Fort Hamilton Community Club!

8:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.

Have you ever thought, if the Army would just ask me how to fix this I could tell them. The AFAP Program gives you the chance to do just that! The Army Family Action Plan (AFAP) is one of the Army's principle programs put in place to ensure that standards of living in the Army keep pace with changing times. AFAP gives Soldiers (Active Duty, National Guard and Reserve), Retirees, DA civilians, and their Families the opportunity to let Army leadership know what is working and what isn’t and their ideas about what will fix it. If you have an idea which you believe would be beneficial and would like to submit an Issue on-line visit: http://www.hamiltonmwr.com/afap_form.php or stop by at any of the following locations to fill out a submission form:

Army Family Action Plan AFAP…Voice of the Community!

AFAP Program Manager John Mapes

718-630-4498, email john.e.mapes2.civ@mail.mil

The AFTB mission is to educate and

empower members of the military

community to develop skills and

behaviors that strengthens self-reliance,

promote retention and enhance readiness.

AFTB strives to provide pro-active,

forward thinking support for today's

families and ensure the strength

of tomorrow's Army.

For more information please call

718-630-4498

Learn, Grow, Lead

Army Family Team Building

•Army Community Service •Barber Shop •Belfour Beatty Communities •Bowling Center •Child Development Center •Community Club

•Fitness Center •ID Section •Post Office •Reserve Center •Visitor Control Center

What is Army Family Action Plan?

Strong Minds, Strong Bodies

MRT is a key component of the Comprehensive Solider Fitness (CSF) Program. The concept behind the CSF program, as it relates to resiliency, is simple: being Army Strong is much more than being physically fit; it is about mental and emotional strength as well. What does the MRT Program do? •Enables Family members to "bounce back" from adversity and grow from current or past adversities Army Families face •Introduces Family members to their true potential Focuses on "Hunting the Good Stuff" •Develops the ability to understand the thoughts, emotions and behaviors of self and others •Enhances effectiveness and well-being by teaching competency skills

For more information please call 718-630-4498

Four things to consider when asking for a raise

Even the most confident person in the world can be

reduced to a bumbling bundle of nerves when it comes

to asking for a raise at work.

The following are some tips to help you through the

process:

Know your worth. When asking for a raise, it’s

important to know what you bring to the table. Make a

list of your accomplishments and contributions to help

strengthen your case. Quantifiable measures (for

example, the percentage you have helped increase sales,

or, the amount of money you have helped the company

save by implementing a certain procedure). Emails from

coworkers and clients praising your work are social

proof that you are worthy of a raise.

Do your research. Consult with others in your industry

and conduct research online to find out what the going

rate is for your position. Be sure to consider your level

of experience, education, and city of residence as all of

these factors will have some bearing on salary.

Timing is everything. Before asking for a raise,

consider your organization’s finances. It is often less

expensive for a company to pay slightly more for an

employee who already knows the job than it is to hire

Article from moneymanagement.org

Submitted by Employment Readiness Program

and train a new employee. That being said, there are

certain times when your company’s finances are tighter

than others, and there are times when the budget ismore

receptive to change. Be sure to take into consideration

your employer’s financial outlook when planning to ask

for a raise.

Think win/win. The relationship between employee and

employer should be based on mutual benefit. When you

discuss your salary with your employer, try to keep this

balance in mind. Be assertive in asking for what you

think you deserve, but leave ultimatums like “give me a

raise or I quit” out of the discussion unless you are

really ready to move on to a new job.

Remember, even if your company can't grant your

request for a raise right now, increased benefits and

vacation time are other “wins” that your employer may

be willing to discuss in lieu of a higher salary. So give it

a shot!

Fort Hamilton

Army Volunteer Corps

Meet New People

Become Active in Your Community

Gain New Job Skills

Feel Good About Yourself

Enhance Job Opportunities

Gain Experience

Network

Make a difference….Volunteer

TO REGISTER please call

(718) 630-4756

Job Search Assistance

Resume Development

Career Planning

Vacancy Listings

Job Search Training

Computer Lab

To Schedule an appointment

please call (718) 630-4756

Army Community Service

Employment Readiness Program

Offers:

Sexual assault can reduce the strength of your entire unit. You have a responsibility as a soldier to work to prevent sexual assault from occurring in your unit. The Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program reinforces the Army's commitment to eliminate incidents of sexual assault through a comprehensive policy that centers on awareness and prevention, training and education, victim advocacy, response, reporting, and accountability. Army policy promotes sensitive care and confidential

reporting for victims of sexual assault and accountability for those who commit these crimes. The goals of the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program are to: Create a climate that minimizes sexual assault incidents, which impact Army personnel, Army civilians, and family members, and, if an incident should occur, ensure that victims and subjects are treated according to Army policy. Create a climate that encourages victims to report incidents of sexual assault without fear. Establish sexual assault prevention training and awareness programs to educate Soldiers. Ensure sensitive and comprehensive treatment to restore victims' health and well-being. Ensure leaders understand their roles and responsibilities regarding response to sexual assault victims, thoroughly investigate allegations of sexual assault, and take appropriate administrative and disciplinary action.

If you are a victim of a sexual assault, please contact the ACS Assault Response Coordinator at 718-630-4460 or 347-452-4302 24/7.

Sexual Assault Has No Place in the Army

Losing a loved one is one of the most

difficult things anyone can go through. In its

commitment to the Families of the Fallen,

the United States Army has developed a

comprehensive Survivor Outreach Services

(SOS) Program.

The mission of the Survivor Outreach

Services (SOS) is to provide long-term

support to Families of our Fallen Soldiers

by offering assistance with any concerns or

issues, providing information on services

and programs, and connecting Families to

outreach organizations both inside and

outside the Department of Defense.

If you would like more information, please

call 718-630-4754

EFMP is a mandatory enrollment program that works with other military and civilian agencies to provide comprehensive and coordinated medical, educational, housing, community support, and personnel services to Families with special needs. For any questions concerning the Exceptional Family Member Program, please contact Vincent DiMaira, Family Advocacy Program Manager at 718-630-4460 To enroll your Family Member in EFMP, contact Nola Francois at Keller Army Community Hospital in West Point Phone: 845-938-6881

Exceptional Family Member Program

Families without bank accounts are on the rise,

according to a survey by the Federal Deposit Insurance

Corporation (FDIC). The agency reported that one-

quarter of households in the U.S. lack a checking or

savings account.

Unfortunately, many of these consumers are turning to

high-interest alternatives, such as pay-day loans, title

loans and pawn shops, to satisfy their banking needs.

And while these may be convenient options – the cost

of convenience is staggering.

According to Consumers Union, the fees for payday

loans can be as much as $17.50 for every $100

borrowed. But it’s the interest rates that are downright

dirty!

For example, the interest rate for a one-week loan is

more than 900 percent. You read that right – nine

hundred percent. And if you’re interested in a two-

week loan, you’ll have to pony up 456 percent.

The payday industry justifies its business by stressing

that they are only used for the occasional emergency.

However, that’s rarely the case.

It’s reported that nearly seven in 10 people who use

payday loans, rely on them for recurring expenses, such

as food, rent, utilities and car payments. In fact, the Wall

Street Journal reports that the average customer of a

payday lender makes 11 transactions a year. And one

can only imagine how quickly the interest on that many

transactions could snowball.

So in reality, payday loans actually create more

problems than they solve. And who needs more

problems?

So rather than resorting to a payday loan, consider

opening up a checking or savings account at an FDIC-

insured bank or credit union. These financial institutions

are beginning to offer more options for small loans,

which would be the ideal alternative to using a payday

lender.

Plus, opening up an account at a reputable institution

will allow you to build an emergency savings account –

which should be easy to do, now that you’re not paying

triple-digit interest rates.

You should aim to save at least an amount equal to three

months of your salary – ideally it should be six months.

And depending on the financial institution you choose,

your savings will earn interest over time – so your

money will be making its own money! It’s a win-win.

Finally, remember that when facing a debt crisis, there is

no “quick fix” that’s going to solve all of your financial

issues. So anyone promising one should be scrutinized

thoroughly.

And if you need assistance putting together a long-term

solution to pay down debt, seek out a nonprofit

organization, such as MMI, to get you on the right path

toward a stress-free financial future!

The Ugly Truth About Payday Loans

Article from http://www.moneymangement.org

Financial Readiness Program

Financial Readiness

Program

For more information

Please call 718-630-4754

Anytime a child has an accident, it's tragic. Having your child

get hurt any day of the year would be horrible but the last

thing that you want to happen is for your child to be hurt on a

holiday, like Halloween. It would forever live in the minds of

the child and family, ruining that special time of year.

Everyone wants to have a safe and happy Halloween for

themselves, their guests and especially their children. Using

safety tips and some common sense can help you make the

most of your Halloween season, keeping it as enjoyable for

your kids as it is for you! There are lots of simple ways to

help keep your child safe on Halloween, when accidents and

injuries are more likely to occur.

The excitement of children and adults at this time of year can

sometimes make them not as careful as they would normally

be. This article is filled with suggestions that can do a lot to

stop tragedies from happening and help make the most of

everyone's favorite holiday of the year... Halloween!

By keeping Halloween a fun, safe and happy holiday for you

and your kids, you'll look forward to many happy years of

Halloween fun! By keeping good memories for your kids,

they'll be more likely to carry on the traditions that you have

taught to them with their own families some day!

•Here's some tips that we have just for you kids, to help keep

you safe on Halloween night! Some of these ideas are called

"common sense" ideas, that means that they are things that

you should know and use every day in life. You are never too

young to learn!

• Never, ever go into a strangers house or even ring their door

Submitted by William Hansel

Safety Officer

If you’re a Service member in crisis, or know a Service member who is, confidential support is only a phone call, click, or text away. The Military Crisis Line is staffed by caring, qualified responders from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)—many who have served in the Military themselves. They understand what Service members have been through and the challenges members of the Military and their loved ones face. The Military Crisis Line, online chat, and text are free to all Service members, including members of the National Guard and Reserves, and Veterans, even if you are not registered with VA or enrolled in VA health care. Hundreds of men and women in the military call us every day—and start to get

Serving those who serve their country

Stay Safe this Halloween

for treats unless your parents are with you and say that it's

okay. There are some people in life that aren't very nice to

kids and you have to be careful. Always make sure that your

mom or dad is within sight when you go out trick-or-treating.

•Be careful when you cross a street. Make sure to look in both

directions and make sure that there are no cars coming. If you

have a little brother or sister with you, take their hand and

help them get across the street, too. If the street has a stop

light, wait until the cross walk light tells you that it's okay to

cross now, but still check before you cross, look both ways.

• If you are an older kid or young teen, and going out with

friends, make sure that your parents know where you are

going and who you are going with. This may seem like a pain

but they are your parents and they love you. They just want

you to be safe.

•Vandalism is never cool! Throwing eggs at cars and houses

is not cool. Someone has to clean it up and it could be you, if

you get caught. You can also be arrested and punished as a

juvenile. So, don't think that it's fun only if you can get away

with it. It's never the right thing to do! Think about how you

would feel if someone did that to your house and how bad it

would make you feel.

Have fun on Halloween but keep it safe, have some good,

clean fun and your parents will trust you for many

Halloweens to come! Showing them how responsible you can

be will give you a feeling of pride and make them see just

how adult you really are.

back on track. Crisis feels different for everybody and can be associated with a wide range of situations. Some Service members are coping with stress, anxiety, PTSD, or other effects stemming from their military service. Many have difficulty with their relationships or with the transition back to civilian life. Whatever’s got you down—chronic pain, anxiety, depression, sleeplessness, anger, or even disturbing memories of your tour —a Military Crisis Line responder can provide support, day or night. Confidential Support is available 24/7 Military Crisis Line (1-800-273-8255) Press 1, online chat & text (838255)

Phone: 718-630-4462

October 20, 2012 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm

Please call to reserve your seat!!

Waiting Families

This service offers information on

Immigration and Naturalization

policies, procedures and forms.

Due to the high demand of this

service, appointments are

preferred.

Immigration & Naturalization

Assistance:

Provided to Active Duty,

Retirees, Service members on

Title 10 Orders & their Dependants

To schedule an appointment call (718) 630-4462

Meet at Army Community

Service Bldg. 137C,

1st Floor

Paint Your Own Pottery

Are You Departing or Arriving to Ft. Hamilton Without

Your Household Goods?

Come to the ACS Lending Closet for Temporary use of Household

Essentials you may Need.

Stay Safe - Online Predators Chat rooms, instant messaging, and other social networking sites are fun, quick, and easy ways to stay in touch with people after you move. You can have conversations, send each other pictures, and stay connected. But at the same time, it's important to remember that there are other people on the Internet who are up to no good. Be wary of any strangers online. People aren't always who they say they are. Stick to talking to only people you know, and do not agree to meet up with people from the Internet. You never know who you're dealing with. Do not use your real information. Do not provide people with your real name, address, phone number, or any other information that can help someone identify who you are or where you live. Get your parent involved. If someone you don't know is trying to communicate with you online, tell your parent and do not communicate with this person. Avoid unsafe websites and scams. If something pops up on your computer and asks you to sign up for a free prize or put your information onto the site to win something, don't do it. Most of the time, this type of thing is a scam and you don't want to give your information to strangers.

Military Youth on the Move

Wellness Corner

Seasons change and so does the

body. One of the core overlooked

transitions occurs in the

metabolism. It’s how food is

converted into energy. It’s

affected by our environment, our

daily consumption and our daily

activities.

The body works very hard to

obtain energy from what you

consume. Enzymes are the speed

behind the chemical breakdown of

food. They are the movers and

shakers of the metabolism. Eating

varied food will provide the body

with these precious helper

enzymes. Eating healthier will

also keep the fall cold bug away!

So, make sure your eating diverse

& colorful fresh fruits, vegetables,

lean protein and low to no

processed foods. Virtually all

fresh, organically grown,

uncooked plant foods are great

sources of enzymes. Bromelain is

found in pineapples while papain

is concentrated in papayas. So, go

shopping today for papayas,

pineapples, sprouts, raw nuts and

seeds. Transition with the season

into better habits for example, shop

outside the inner lanes in the

supermarket and avoid processed

foods.

Hormones, including insulin,

glucagon, and epinephrine, are

regulators of metabolic processes

too. These are controlled by

centers in the brain. When the

body’s processes are not

functioning optimally a Yoga class

and or a Reiki Session can help.

These two alternative methods

(amongst many) are keys to

balancing the mind and thus the

body, along with proper food and

exercise.

Reiki and Yoga are utilized by the

Military and recognized as

valuable therapeutic options. It

has also led to a decrease of

medication use. Fort Bliss, Fort

Riley, Fort Hood, and Fort

Hamilton offer these services

because of the following benefits:

Relaxation, Pain Management,

Reduced Anxiety, Improved Sleep,

Accelerated Surgical Recovery,

Reduce Side-Effects from

Radiation & Reduces Blood

Pressure.

Transitions

Submitted by Bilqis Benu

Family & MWR Fitness Coordinator

Join our upcoming Wellness Fair

A venue for better health and inner

peace. We will have a variety of

wellness sessions for you to sample.

A listing on some of the many

services on this day are: Reiki,

Yoga, Acupuncture, Massage,

Chiropractic Care, Wellbeing

guidance and Fitness tours.

Free samples and refreshments will

be served to the first 50 people.

You are cordially invited!

Wellness Fair

Location: Fitness Center

Date: 2012 October 27th

Time: 1000-1300 hrs.

Contact: Ms. Benu, Bilqis - Fitness Coordinator P: 718.630.4935

Fort Hamilton Sports and Fitness Center E: Bilqis.z.benu.naf@mail.mil

402 MacArthur Rd. Brooklyn, NY 11252 FB: BrooklynFmwr

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20 Painted Pot 1400-1600 Meet at ACS

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Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

Waiting Families

Newcomer’s 0830-1130 ACS Conf Rm.

Happy Halloween

Prioritized issues from the Survivor Outreach Services Mini AFAP Conference on 9 August 2011, the Youth Mini AFAP on 30 August 2011 and the AFAP Conference on 8 December 2011. ISSUE #: FH-11-001: Inconsiderate Housing Area Occupants Scope: The effect of privatized housing has resulted in a reduction of quality of life in military housing due to lack of enforcement of rules/policies. Residents (military and non-military) are not following rules/policies set in place by property management (Balfour Beatty Communities). Specifically policies of noise ordinance, parking, garbage (take out & clean up), curfew of youth and fire/safety (BBQ grills on balconies) are not being followed. Recommendation(s): Revise policies so that when violations are committed enforcement/consequences are implemented by garrison command instead of property management (regardless of the privatized agreement). Status: Completed/ This issue has been brought to the attention of our property management staff. Every effort has been, and will continue to be made towards the enforcement of these policies, which are all incorporated into the Resident Guide that is handed out to each new resident. Additionally, if residents notice blatant violations, they have the ability to call and notify the property management staff who will then take the appropriate course of action, based on the type and severity of the violation/infraction. Those residents that are found non-compliant with any policy are given proper notifications ranging from a “Discrepancy Notice”, “Letter of Caution”, “Letter of Warning”, “Letter of Eviction.” Any issue that cannot be reasonably resolved through the efforts of the property management staff and the Ft. Hamilton Housing office are brought to the attention of the Garrison Command Group. ISSUE #: FH-11-011: Benefits for Gold Star Parents Scope: Gold Star Parents are currently not receiving the same benefits as surviving spouses and children. For example, there are no preventive medical benefits for Gold Star Parents. Lack of matching benefits create hardships and isolation of Gold Star Parents from the military family. Recommendation(s): Provide equal benefits for Gold Star Parents that mirror benefits of surviving spouses and children. Status: Unattainable/ Elevated to Military District of Washington (MDW) AFAP Conference—The Delegates from this conference felt services are currently available: Survivor Outreach Services (SOS), Veterans Administration and Military Family Life Consultants offer free services. This issue was not forwarded to the Dept of the Army. ISSUE #: FH-11-012: Survivor Preferential Hiring Status Scope: Next of kin are not given the same preferential hiring status as spouses when applying for government positions. Often times the next of kin (i.e. Gold Star Parents) have more qualifications than the spouses, but are not considered for employment due to lack of equal preferential status. Therefore the government is not benefiting by the employment of the most qualified candidate. Gold Star Parents should be allowed to offer their dedication, experiences and educational backgrounds for consideration of employment on an equal par with military spouses. Recommendation(s): Provide Next of Kin the same preferential hiring status that are offered to spouses. Status: Unattainable/ Elevated to MDW AFAP Conference—A representative from the Judge Advocate General’s office told the conference Delegates that if benefits were not given to a family member prior to the Soldiers death then benefits could not be offered after the death. This issue was also brought forward at the SOS conference earlier this year and was not considered there either. This issue was not forwarded to the Dept of the Army. ISSUE #: FH-11-014: Recreational fun for teens Scope: There aren’t enough recreational activities for teens on post. The younger teens are not allowed off post; meanwhile the older teens who are allowed off post participate in reckless behavior/activities. The lack of recreational activities affects the entire youth population on post. Recommendation(s): Provide new recreational activities such as an indoor roller rink. Provide additional equipment at already established recreation sites, such as more swings at the Ocean View Park and a waterslide at the Community Pool. Initiate quarterly Teen Forums in the Child, Youth and School Services sphere to discuss additional requests for recreational activities. Status: Completed/ Youth Services will hold quarterly Teen Forums to discuss recreational activities and other teen concerns. The Teen forums will be held 3rd Tuesday of each month (Mar, Jun, Sept and Dec)

AFAP Issue Book

United States Army Garrison – Fort Hamilton

The Face of America’s Army in New York City

ISSUE #: FH-11-024: Running track on post Scope: There is no designated area for Soldiers outdoor running PT. Lack of running track increases disruption in traffic flow, accidents and injuries. Proper running track will increase moral and physical readiness. Recommendation(s): Build a track around the ball field or another location. Status: OPEN/ Funding doesn’t exist for a new track, however, Poly Preparatory School next to Fort Hamilton may allow use of their facilities. DFMWR will research this option. ISSUE #: FH-11-026: Improve Recycling Program Scope: Garrison Residents/Tenants are not fully engaged in the current recycle program. The environment is affected by lack of participation from users. The garrison is not meeting the established base line standards. Recommendation(s): 1) Aggressively market current recycling program 2) Demand 100% participation Status: Completed/ Recycling outreach was conducted to all housing units, including memo from the Garrison Commander. DPW started briefing OMA activities on proper recycling procedures on 13 December 2011 and so far has met with PAI, Safety, FMWR, PAO, DOL DPTMS, NEC and CAC. Environmental Division is continuing the recycling briefing to all OMA and tenants on the installation. We are also briefing the newcomers at the Newcomer’s Orientation. ISSUE #: FH-11-032: Energy Conservation Awareness Training Scope: Lack of energy awareness notification to the Garrison. Lack of awareness results in not meeting energy reduction goals. Meeting energy reductions goals saves dollars that can be used towards mission critical activities Recommendation(s): Coordinate with Garrison energy POC’s to provide mandatory Energy Conservation Awareness Training. Status: Open ISSUE #: FH-11-033: Emergency Notification System Scope: The current Emergency Notification System utilized on the installation does not reach all intended parties (tenants and residents.) It also appears that a large portion of the installation population are unaware of the Roam Secure Alert Network (RSAN.) At the time of an emergency the Fort Hamilton community may not receive notification or be aware of a potential threat, which may lead to an increase in injuries or death. Recommendation(s): 1) Broaden the Fort Hamilton knowledge base of RSAN capabilities and ensure that the information is provided in a timely manner to all residents and tenants. 2) Install internal intercom capabilities within all buildings on the installation. Status: Completed/ The Director of Planning, Training, Mobilization and Security (DPTMS) has contacted both the Army Community Services (ACS) center and the Public Affairs Office (PAO) for assistance with this requirement. ACS has provided time for the Emergency Management (EM) manager to speak during the installation’s Newcomer’s orientation and the PAO is working with the EM to develop a way to use the command information system to promote Fort Hamilton’s ability to get RSAN alerts on personal electronic devices. DPTMS has sent out mass emails to promote the use of RSAN by the community. Additionally DPTMS has conducted a briefing for the United States Army Corps of Engineers Safety Managers to encourage usage of RSAN within the Corp. Installation of internal intercom is being reviewed to determine the best system for the structures at Fort Hamilton. ISSUE #: FH-11-034: Lower rank Service Members, Civilian Staff, and Family Members are unaware of any emergency response plan at Fort Hamilton. Scope: This affects mission readiness and preparedness in the event of an emergency. Recommendation(s): Discover and utilize additional channels of communication and be more aggressive in distributing information to military community. Status: Completed/ The EM is currently tasked with reviewing and revising the Fort Hamilton emergency preparedness training program. Communication of an event/incident has been identified as a National shortfall. Currently we are using the previously described means to better inform the community. Additionally the use of “Social” networks has been incorporated. Visitation by the installation staff to “tenant” units to review their plans/SOP and providing assistance with updating and exercising will be included in the Fort Hamilton Exercise Plan. ISSUE #: FH-11-035: Non DOD affiliated civilians can make reservations at the Ft. Hamilton lodge, even though they would not normally have access to the installation. Why is it that they are allowed to get on post with just a reservation? Scope: This degrades the security of the entire installation. A terrorist can access the installation in a vehicle with nothing more than a credit card.

Recommendation(s): Ensure that unauthorized civilians do not enter the installation with just a lodge reservation. Status: Completed/ In order to obtain a room at the Holiday Inn Express Fort Hamilton, the potential guest must be able to gain access to the installation. The lodging staff informs every potential guest that the lodge is located on a military installation and they will need proper identification to enter. Additionally DES insures/validates all guests have more than just a reservation. A military identification card and/or affiliation is required for entry onto Fort Hamilton. ISSUE #: FH-11-036: Priority for Soldiers & Families @ Guest House Lodging Scope: There is a lack of priority lodging for PCS/TDY service members and their Families. This creates an increase in transport time, a financial burden to the service member and stress to the Family members. Increased stress compromises mission readiness. Recommendation(s): Provide priority to Service Members and their families at privatized lodging on military facilities. Status: OPEN/ Elevated to MDW AFAP Conference—The conference Delegates recommended this issue go forward to the Dept of the Army AFAP General Officer Steering Committee meeting. ISSUE #: FH-11-038: Waste of Electricity Scope: There are many lights left on after business hours. This negatively affects the Garrison’s budget. Funds are being diverted from mission critical programs to fund higher than necessary electrical bills. Recommendation(s): 1) Install occupancy sensors in OMA buildings 2) Increase energy awareness (lights) 3) Offer incentives to save energy Status: Completed/ Occupancy sensors will be installed in buildings that currently do not contain them as a modification to the 8A Energy projects contract. ISSUE #: FH-11-043: Workforce Reductions Scope: Due to drastic and arbitrary reductions in the DoD work force, directorates are not able to complete their missions. For instance, DES has been mandated to be reduced by 9 officers which does not meet the daily man power requirement. This directly affects the readiness, welfare and development of every Service Member, Family Member and DoD Civilian on the installation. Recommendation(s): Ensure that every directorate has enough qualified Military and civilian personnel to accomplish their mission and provide services to the current standard. Status: Completed / Due to budget constraints across the entire Army we may be required to reduce our staffing level. The Command is working very hard to ensure that we can cover all required missions. If a reduction in staffing levels results in not being able to complete a mission, then the Command will have to relook and adjust mission requirements. ISSUE #: FH-11-044: Insufficient Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) Scope: Currently BAH is based on the location of the installation. Housing in the surrounding communities however, does not predominantly meet on post conditions. Consequently soldiers have to spend more than their BAH amount to secure safe and quality housing for their families. Recommendation(s): Provide BAH to reflect the markets equivalent to on post living. Status: Completed / Data is collected annually for over 350 Military Housing Areas in the United States. Three components are included in the BAH computation: median current market rent, average utilities (including electricity, heat, and water/sewer) and average renter’s insurance. Collectively these components establish the total housing costs. From 2007 thru 2011, Ft. Hamilton BAH rates have had a steady increase. Ft. Hamilton’s average BAH has risen from $2052 in 2007 to its current rate of $3005 in 2011. Based on the significant increases in BAH, and the surrounding area market rental rates, Ft. Hamilton’s current BAH rates accurately reflect those rental costs associated with the surrounding markets. ISSUE #: FH-11-045: Ft. Hamilton Community Activities Center Scope: Current Community Activities Center does not meet the soldiers need and is inadequate. The concentration is currently on the outside community and is not soldier friendly. Soldiers are forced to go off post for after hour activities, and when alcohol is involved, it can be detrimental. Recommendation(s): Establish appropriate after hours Community Activities Center for Service members. Status: Unattainable / The Fort Hamilton Installation Planning Board has plans to build a Community Activities Center, however, funding has not been allocated for it at this time. As soon as funding is approved, work on building a Community Activities Center will begin.

ISSUE #: FH-11-046: Cross Training Military and Civilian Personnel Scope: Many military and civilian personnel are not aware of nor trained in specific elements and technical knowledge in order to complete their mission. For instance, DES training officers may need to know aspects of the DPW, like GFEBS, in order to get training equipment. This lack of knowledge hinders productivity and mission completion. Recommendation(s): Create focus group sessions on cross training Military and Civilians to distribute relevant technical knowledge throughout the work force. Status: Completed/ Cross Training is being conducted at the local levels. Additionally there are Professional Development Training opportunities for civilian personnel wishing to expand their skill sets beyond their current job classifications. This includes TDYs to other installations and the Fort Hamilton University. ISSUE #: FH-10-058: Housing Recycling Program Scope: Housing currently has no recycling program. This negatively impacts not only the installation but the entire environment. Wrongly discarding recyclable items causes harm to the environment. Recycling saves the community money. Recommendation(s): Provide a Recycling Program for Fort Hamilton Housing. Status: Completed/ The Directorate of Public Works Environmental Division in conjunction with our Fort Hamilton housing partner, Balfour Beatty Communities, have implemented a housing recycling program.

Issue from the 2009 AFAP Conference:

ISSUE #: FH-09-064: Provide a Coffee Establishment on Post Scope: Fort Hamilton lacks a good socialization area such as a coffee shop. It also provides employment for Teens. It is a safer venue for Teenagers to gather, as opposed to going off post. Off post is an urban environment that can be dangerous. A coffee shop would provide a good social networking place for the Community. Recommendation(s): Establish a coffee shop on Post Action: AAFES management is looking at companies to bid on running a Coffee Shop on post. Status: OPEN