SENIOR NCO SHARES HIS OBSERVATIONS FROM THE FRONT - PAGE 8

INSIDENews 1-8Blotter 6Feature 16-17Happenings 19-20Go Get Out 21

Pete's StrongestPersonal Trainer at the sports andfitness center goes for anothernational title.Page 8

Competitive K-9sMilitary working dogs demonstratehow they fight crime.

Page 14

Thursday, September 8, 2005 Vol. 49 No. 36

Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado

Enlisted Against DrunkDriving

Fri. - Sat. 10 p.m. - 3 a.m.Phone: 719-556-6384 or 55 NO DUI

Colorado, America welcome newest citizensBy Capt. Paradon “Sil” Silpasornprasit21st Space Wing Public Affairs

Under a clear Colorado morning sky, more than150 people sat against the backdrop of Garden of theGods as America welcomed its newest citizens duringa naturalization ceremony there Aug 30.

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Servicesheld the ceremony for military personnel and civil-ians at the Garden of the Gods’ Visitor and NatureCenter. More than 700 friends and family memberspacked the parking lot of the visitor center to witnesstheir loved ones’ accomplishment. Four Fort Carsonsoldiers dressed in Civil-War-era-mounted-cavalryuniforms presented the Colors atop horses while “TheStar Spangled Banner” and “America the Beautiful”echoed through the surrounding hills.

These newly-recognized citizens came from allwalks of life and all corners of the world to becomeU.S. citizens. People from 57 countries were repre-sented at the event.

Colorado Congressman Joel Hefly presided overthe ceremony.

“I am honored to host this ceremony,” Rep.Hefly said. “These individuals have worked hard to

See Naturalization, Page 3

Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Dennis BeebeArmy Specialist Regina Sierra (center), Space and Missile Defense Command, army strategic commandchief council’s office in Building 3, takes the oath of citizenship with more than 150 new Americans

By Tech. Sgt. Jennifer ThibaultAFSPC Public Affairs

The magnitude of devastation leftin the wake of Hurricane Katrina maytake months to realize. What is knownis that help is needed and it’s neededfast. Air Force Space Command is doingits part and doing so quickly.

Examples of this expeditiouseffort lie with some of the command’sdeployed officers.

Col. Jay Santee, current 21stSpace Wing vice commander; Maj. PaulOhla and Capt. Jeff Owens, fromHeadquarters AFSPC, were notified of apossible deployment less than 24 hoursbefore they set foot on southeasternUnited States soil.

“I was notified around 3 or 4 p.m.Saturday and I was inprocessing here at1 p.m. Sunday,” said Colonel Santee,who is the director of space forces.

Captain Owens and Major Ohlaboth arrived at 1st Air Force, Tyndall AirForce Base, Fla., approximately 20hours after they volunteered to go.

“I don’t think you can ask for aquicker military response than that,”

AFSPC personnel aid Katrina recovery

Photo by Staff Sgt. Manuel J. MartinezTechnical Sgt. Lem Torres rescues a child Sept. 2 who was trapped in a househere flooded with water left by Hurricane Katrina. Sergeant Torres is apararescueman in the 38th Rescue Squadron, Moody Air Force Base, Ga.

said the colonel.Once on the ground the officers

began working space integration activi-ties and developing joint air and space

operations plans for Joint Task ForceKatrina.

“They have also been trackingdown the status of different space capa-

bilities to ensure the systems are at theright location to serve the greatest num-ber of Department of Defense and civil-ian response personnel,” Colonel Santeesaid.

As the Director of Space ForcesColonel Santee is the principle advisorto the Joint Functional Air Componentcommander on integrating space intothe relief efforts.

Those relief efforts are relying onthe command’s most trusted satellitesystem.

“The navigation and timing signalof the Global Positioning System isalways used and expected to be there insituations such as this,” said ColonelSantee.

There are other space based capa-bilities that have been tailored for thisoperation as well, the Global BroadcastService and the Spectral OperationsResource Center Team are among them.

GBS is a one-way, space-based,high-capacity broadcast communicationsystem that is providing information toheadquarters Northern Command, JointTask Force-Katrina and the Combined

See Katrina, Page 3

Sept. 4, 1922 First U.S. transcontinental aircrossing made within a singleday. Sept. 5, 1923 Two condemned naval vesselssunk by Army bombing tests. Sept. 6, 1916 The first fragmentation bombtested. Sept. 12, 1918 Lt. Frank Luke shot down hisfirst enemy balloon. Sept. 15, 1925 The first semi-rigid helium air-ship constructed in the U.S. iscompleted.

SPACE OBSERVERThursday, September 8, 20052

Published by Colorado Springs Military Newspapers Group, 31 E. Platte Avenue, Suite 300, Colorado Springs, 80903, a private firm in no way connected with the U.S. Air Force, under exclusive written contract with the21st Space Wing. This commercial enterprise Air Force newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the U.S.military services.

Contents of the Space Observer are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government,the Department of Defense or the Department of the Air Force.

The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by DoD, the Department of the Air Force, or CSMNG, of the products or services advertised. Everythingadvertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, reli-gion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor ofthe purchaser, user or patron.

Editorial content is edited, prepared and provided by the 21st Space Wing Public Affairs Office, 775 Loring Ave., Suite 218, Peterson AFB, Colo., 80914-1294, (719) 556-4351 or DSN 834-4351, fax (719) 556-7848 orDSN 834-7848. All photographs are Air Force photographs unless otherwise indicated.

The Space Observer is published every Thursday. For advertising inquiries, call Colorado Springs MilitaryNewspapers, (719) 634-5905. Employees of Peterson Air Force Base who want to place a free classifiedadvertisement should call 634-3223 Ext. 210.

Articles for the Space Observer should be submitted to the 21st SW/PAI, Attn: Space Observer. For submissiondetails call the editor at (719) 556-4351 or DSN 834-4351 or e-mail space.observer@peterson.af.mil. Deadline for sub-mission is 4:30 p.m. the Thursday one week before publication. All articles, copy and announcements submitted willbe edited to conform to AFI Series 35 and the Associated Press Stylebook and Libel Manual.

21st Space WingCommander

Brig. Gen.Richard E. Webber

Chief of Public AffairsCapt. Amy SufakEditorial Staff

Editor Tech. Sgt.

Matt GilreathStaff Writers2nd Lieutenant

Ben MeierStefan Bocchino

Layout and DesignJeff Adcox

FROM THE TOP

A Moment in Time

General Mosley swears in as Air Force’s 18th chief of staffby 1st Lt. Tim DoughertyAir Force Print News

ANDREWS AIR FORCE BASE, Md. – Gen. T.Michael Moseley was sworn in as the Air Force’s 18thchief of staff in a ceremony here Sept. 2 that also fea-tured the retirement of Gen. John P. Jumper after 39years of service.

Acting Secretary of the Air Force Pete Gerenpresided over the ceremony. Also taking part in theceremony were Secretary of Defense Donald H.Rumsfeld and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of StaffGen. Richard B. Myers.

Secretary Rumsfeld thanked General Jumper forhis “exemplary service” to the nation.

“Nowhere except in the military service can youwake up every day and know that our country is saferbecause of you,” Secretary Rumsfeld said. “JohnJumper, you can do that literally every day for the restof your life.”

“You’ve given us a great Air Force,” GeneralMoseley told General Jumper during the ceremony.“We are all going to make it our life’s work for you tobe proud of us and to continue on the path that youhave given us. It is our continued promise that weAirmen will be the best in the world at what we do –dominating air and space.”

Photo by Master Sgt. Jim VarhegyiANDREWS AIR FORCE BASE, Md. — Gen. John P.Jumper (left) passes the Chief of Staff Guidon toGen. T. Michael Moseley during a ceremony hereSept. 2. General Jumper served in the Air Force for39 years. General Moseley served as vice chief ofstaff of the Air Force before being sworn in as the18th Air Force chief of staff.

Mr. Geren said the Air Force is in good handswith General Moseley.

“With General Jumper’s retirement this is a bit-tersweet day for the Air Force,” Mr. Geren said. “Butwe’re gaining a new chief of staff who has been provenin battle over Iraq and Afghanistan. As the vice chief,he has been directly involved in running the Air Forcefor the last two years, and he’s ready.”

General Myers said there is no better Airman totake the reins of the Air Force than General Moseley.

“General Moseley knows a lot about how todeliver air power and what kind of air power to deliv-er to make effects happen on the battle space,” GeneralMyers said. “During this critical time, GeneralMoseley and his wife are exactly the right people, andwe welcome them on board.”

General Moseley said the continued success ofthe Air Force hinges on the efforts of thousands ofAirmen engaged in combat operations worldwide orperforming humanitarian relief in the tragic aftermathof the hurricane on the Gulf Coast.

“This magnificent Air Force is engaged acrossthe globe,” General Moseley said. “The Airmen yousee here today, and watching this ceremony around theworld, are our greatest resource and our greatestpower. These Airmen are what makes the Air Force themost powerful air and space force in the world.”

Action LineSubmitting Action Lines

The Action Line is a direct link to the 21st Space Wingcommander. It should be used when other avenues havefailed. Concerns should be addressed at the lowest possiblelevel in the chain of command and elevated as necessary.

If satisfactory results have not been attained byaddressing the chain of command, call the Action Line at556-7777 or fax 556-7848.

Though not required, Action Line users should leavepoint-of-contact information when submitting an ActionLine. This will allow those who are addressing the concernto clarify the information and respond, if necessary. Not allresponses are printed; however, if information allows, aresponse will be rendered in another format.

Question:Why is the commissary and BX open on federal

holidays like July 4 and Labor Day? Most of the peo-ple who work are dependents of military people. Ithink it is unfair that they have to work when all thechiefs, generals, officers, management of the commis-sary and BX, and military people are enjoying the dayoff. Many of the military people can't enjoy the holi-day because their spouses are working. If it is aboutmaking money, I think it is sad. My husband is aVietnam vet and a Desert Storm vet. I think it is verysad that you can't take one day out of a month off.

Answer:Our base service organizations exist to take care

of service members, their families and retirees. Theystrive to provide the best possible service to our mili-tary community. Based on the response of numerous

surveys to determine their customers' needs, they stayopen during holidays. The employees of our BX andcommissary are the backbone of these operations.Working on holidays and weekends ensures our facili-ties are accessible to our patrons when they have timeoff from work to shop. If the downtown stores are theonly stores open, we are forcing our customers off-base to shop and deny them their military benefit. Tobest serve them, we schedule our BX and commissaryemployees to keep our stores open and attempt torotate the holiday schedules so that as many employeesas possible are given time off to be with their families.If you have further questions call Vicki Smith, BXmanager at 596-7270 or Mr. Bobby Mings, commis-sary manager at 556-7770.

Interested in Air Force opportunities?Contact Air Force Recruiting Service at

www.airforce.com or 800-423-USAF

FEATURESPACE OBSERVER

Thursday, September 8, 2005 3www.peterson.af.mil

obtain something many Americans are fortunate tosimply be born with – our citizenship. I am proud oftheir efforts and am pleased to let them know theirnew country welcomes them.”

The ceremony continued with a tribute to 22-year-old Marine Lance Cpl. Evenor “Christopher”Herrera, who was killed in Iraq Aug. 10 – two weeksbefore he was to return home. His parents were pres-ent as Mario Ortiz, district director of CitizenshipImmigration Services, presented them with their son’sposthumous citizenship certificate. CorporalHerrera, originally from Honduras, died defending acountry his mother said he loved and a country inwhich he was not yet a citizen. The posthumous cer-tificate was the first in Colorado history to be award-ed to a military member who died in combat.

Of these new citizens, Mr. Ortiz said, “I thinkthe biggest thing they have in common is that they allhave the right stuff. They all have the passion, cre-ativity, imagination, strength and courage; that’s what

Naturalization, from Page 1

this country needs.”Among the newly-naturalized citizens were 34

military personnel serving at bases along the FrontRange. Some said they waited less than three months– others more than 10 years – to receive their citizen-ship and stand as new Americans. Due to a recentexecutive order, the wait for citizenship is now expe-dited for those serving in the Armed Forces.

Many uniformed participants have ties to the21st Space Wing. Some Team Pete members are reap-ing the benefits of the new order.

Airman 1st Class Ferdinand Flaris, a 21st CivilEngineer Squadron heavy equipment operator, wasamong the people sworn in. “I feel really proud ofwhat I’ve accomplished. Now that I’m a citizen Ihope to one day apply to the U.S. Air Force Academy.”

Airman Flaris is from the Philippines and wasliving in the U.S. for six years before becoming a cit-izen. Generations of his family served with thePhilippine military. When he moved to the UnitedStates, he said he wanted to serve as well – but servethe new country he loves.

Also from the Philippines, Army SpecialistRegina Sierra, a paralegal who worked at the 21stSpace Wing Judge Advocates Office for the past fourmonths. Her unit is assigned to Space and MissileDefense Command/Army Strategic Command ChiefCouncil’s office in Building 3, but without U.S. citi-zenship she could not qualify for the proper security

clearance necessary to work in the facility. That haschanged. She will rejoin her unit soon. “It’s over-whelming, but I’m excited at the same time,”Specialist Sierra said. “This opens up a whole array ofopportunities for me. I want to be a lawyer one day.”

Specialist Sierra said she hopes for a commis-sion one day and has her sights set on the military’sFunded Legal Education Program to attend lawschool. If selected, the military would pay for her lawdegree.

Airman 1st Class Miralem Bekric, 21st LogisticsReadiness Squadron passenger terminal representa-tive, is originally from Bosnia. Ten years ago he andhis family fled the war-torn country and becamerefugees in Germany. Because of the devastation tohis homeland, his family had no home to go back toafter the war. They applied for visas to immigrate tothe United States and were granted entry six yearsago. In 1999 they settled in Kentucky. “I’ve beenlooking forward to this for a long time,” he said. “Itfeels good. I have a lot of pride in what I’ve done.”

At the end of the ceremony, the more than 150new U.S. citizens made their way through a receptionline to receive their certificates of citizenship, towardtheir futures as Americans. To salute their commit-ment, the ceremony was capped off with a fly-by oftwo C-130s assigned to the 302nd Airlift Wing.

Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Dennis BeebeBrigadier General Richard Webber, 21st SpaceWing commander, congratulates Airmen 1st ClassMiralem Bekric, 21st Logistics ReadinessSquadron as he makes his way through the recep-tion line.

Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Dennis BeebeMember of the Fort Carson “Harmony in Motion” singing group sang a medley of various patrioticanthems throughout the naturalization ceremony

Pat Loftus, 21st Space Wing Civilian Personnel Office human resource

specialist (classifications), was removed from life support Aug. 30 and died Aug. 31 at the Swedish Medical

Center, Denver. A memorial service was held for her at the Peterson Chapel Sept. 31. A trust fund will be established

for her family. Donations may be dropped off at Building 350 Room 1116. Please direct any questions about

the trust fund to Linda Kopman at 556-4722.

Team PPete lloses oone oof iits oown

Air and Space Operations Center atTyndall AFB, Fla.

The Army’s Spectral OperationsResource Center is exploiting commer-cial imagery to prepare high-resolutionimages to civilian and military respon-ders to permit a better understanding ofthe devastated terrain.

“This is really a joint space opera-tion,” said the colonel.

Members from the Joint Space

Operations Center, located atVandenberg Air Force Base, Calif., areon call providing reach back capabilityand research to the DIRSPCFOR. TheJSPOC is responsible for controlling alljoint-space assets. They coordinate anddeliver joint space effects and if neces-sary, they will administer taskings tosupport the relief efforts.

The deployed officers are in theinitial stages of supporting the reliefefforts in the southeastern states. Theyknow there is likely a long road ahead of

them but they say they are happy to bethere.

“I’m glad I am here to do my part,”said Captain Owens. “It’s a good feel-ing to know we are here to do what wecan.”

“I’m saddened that our nation isgoing through this tragedy of epic pro-portions but I’m proud to be a part ofthe team that’s heroic efforts will helpget our nation back on its feet,” ColonelSantee added.

In addition, the command has

deployed six helicopters and crews withassociated maintenance and supportpersonnel to Columbus Air Force Base,Miss. in support of Joint Task ForceKatrina. This is the first time AFSPChas taken their helicopters outside oftheir normal area of operations, which isto provide security for its intercontinen-tal ballistic missile fields.

The command has also deployedapproximately 100 security forces per-sonnel to augment security at Keeslerand Lackland Air Force Bases.

Katrina, from Page 1

Off-duty interests and hobbies: My biggest off-duty interest is simply hangingout with friends and family. I also enjoy watching and playing football, listeningto music, watching movies and going to school.Why did you join the Air Force? I joined the AirForce for several reasons. The first reason wasbecause I liked the idea of serving our country andhaving the opportunity to travel to unique placesaround the world, like Thule Air Base, Greenland.The second reason was to get out of my smalltown and dead-end job. Lastly, I loved the idea ofbeing able to retire at age 39.What inspires you to do what you do? I find themost inspiration from my family, friends and peers.I think about the sacrifices and misfortunes theyhave endured and overcome to give me the oppor-tunities that I have.What is your favorite part of your job? One of the best parts of my job iswatching a newly assigned space operator slowly gain the knowledge andskills required to become a certified operator in the Missile WarningOperations Center. It gets even better when they have a successful evaluationand they are truly thankful for the training they have had.What goals have you set? My goal is to complete the eight classes I need toearn my bachelor’s degree from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University inProfessional Aeronautics and the two classes I need to earn my SpaceOperations and Aircraft Maintenance Technology Community College of theAir Force degrees. Once that is accomplished, I plan on applying for OfficerTraining School.

SPACE OBSERVERThursday, September 8, 20054

PPeak Peak Performererformer

Staff Sgt.Michael Wheeler

Name: Michael WheelerRank: Staff Sergeant

Organization: 12th Space Warning SquadronDuty Title: Missile Warning Operations Center crew chief instructor

Time in Service: 8 yearsHometown: Torrington, Conn.

NEWS

By Capt. Erin Carlson and Tech.Sgt. Paul Czosnowski4th Space Control Squadron

Military men and women arebeing challenged to race or cycle acrossAmerica, swim the rivers of this countryand climb to the top of its mountains.

These challenges are the results offour new programs introduced atHolloman Air Force Base, N.M., to sup-port fitness awareness in 2004. The fouryear-round events promote both teamand individual accomplishments gearedtoward cycling, swimming and climbing.

The 4th Space Control Squadron,a 21st Space Wing GeographicallySeparated Unit located at HollomanAFB, became the first squadron to con-quer the ‘Climb to the Top’ challengeAug. 15. The 11-member team reachedthe 29,029-foot summit of MountEverest using the tread-wall equipped,$11.1-million fitness center. The team’sefforts started Jan. 5 and ended in victo-ry Aug. 15 with well-deserved braggingrights. “Congratulations to the 4thSPCS on 29,029 feet … it was great tohave the squadron reach the top of Mt.Everest,” said Denise Allen, HollomanFitness Director.

The 4th SPCS’s achievement rep-resents the pinnacle of team excellence.The “Climb-to-the-Top” challengeafforded the opportunity to improveupon individual strength and endurancewhile building esprit de corp. The team

Space reaches new heights

said they are setting new heights in com-bat readiness and challenging anysquadron, anywhere, to do the same.

The 4th Space Control Squadronprovides space surveillancecapabilities for the National

Command Authorities and uni-fied commanders worldwide.

4th Space Control SquadronOperates and maintains mobile

space surveillance, communica-tions, and data relay systems thatsupport U.S. Northern Commandand theater commanders

Conducts mobile and transport-able operations providing criticalconnections between the NationalCommand Authorities, U.S. SpaceCommand, 14th Air Force andsquadron elements

Provides dedicated inter-theaterand intra-theater links for criticalspace surveillance data

NEWS BRIEFSSPACE OBSERVER

Thursday, September 8, 2005 5www.peterson.af.mil

Colorado Springs gears upfor Veteran’s Day Parade

This Veteran’s Day Parade will be held at 9:30a.m. Nov. 5 in downtown Colorado Springs.Registration for the parade started Aug.1 and runsthrough Oct. 14. For information, contact DianaCeciliani at 282-3862.

Peterson Chapel begins registration Registration has started for both Catholic

Religious Education, CCD, and Sunday School. CCDwill begin Sept. 18 at 8 a.m. and Sunday School startsat 9:30 a.m.

Schriever AFB seeks reservistsSchriever Air Force Base has openings and

mandays for Reservists/Individual MobilizationAugmentees for fiscal year 2006, in a variety of posi-tions, including civil engineering and security forces.For information, contact Maj. Roger Reynolds, 50thContracting Squadron, at 567-4698.

Air Force Junior ROTCinstructors wanted

Schools are in need of retired or soon-to-beretired officers and NCOs for Air Force Junior ROTC

instructor positions for the 2006 school year. A list ofschools needing AFJROTC instructors can be foundat www.afoats.af.mil/AFJROTC/Instructors.asp. Forinformation, call (866) 235-7682, ext. 35275 or 35300.

Traffic disruption expected atPeterson North Gate

Construction on new speed bumps and hydraulicbarriers is scheduled to begin at the North Gate Sept.15. Incoming traffic will be permitted from 5 to 11a.m. only. Outgoing traffic will be permitted from 11a.m. to 5 p.m. only. People traveling on or off base areencouraged to use the East and West Gates during the15 days of construction. For information, call RogerWilliams at 491-4183.

Airman’s Attic announces hours, goodsThe Airman’s Attic assists military members and

their families, ranks E-4 and below with a variety ofitems such as furniture, household goods, baby items,military uniforms and large appliances at no cost. Totake advantage of services or to drop off donations,hours of operations are Mondays through Saturdaysfrom 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. It is located in Building 1156,Columbia Hall, next to the NCO Academy. For infor-mation, call Nona Daugherty at 556-7832.

Red Cross office calls for volunteersThe Peterson Red Cross office is in need of vol-

unteers to staff their main office, located in Building350. For information or to volunteer, call Cathy Toddat 556-7590 or 556-9201.

Commissary holds case lot saleThe Peterson Commissary will hold a case lot

sale Sept. 16 and 17. There will be savings available inthe warehouse on numerous products.

Base Exchange honors retireesThe Peterson Base Exchange will honor retirees

Sept. 16 through 18 with its annual "Still Serving"weekend. The BX staff will offer drawings, freerefreshments, free product samples, vendor demon-strations and door prizes. For information, call VickySmith at 596-7270.

Academy PC Gamers club holdsmonthly LAN party

The Academy PC Gamers Club is hosting aLocal Area Network gaming party from 9 a.m. to 10p.m. Sept. 24 at the Milazzo Club. There will be tour-naments and prizes given throughout the day. Forinformation visit www.academygamers.com or emailinfo@academygamers.com.

By Lt. Col. Daniel Dant21st Space Wing Safety

Labor Day weekend marked anunofficial end to the 101 Critical Daysof Summer Safety Campaign for 2005.

Tragically, 27 Airmen lost theirlives prior to the holiday weekend, thesame number as were killed in 2004,with two weeks yet to go at the time ofthis writing. In comparison, 31 were

killed in 2003, and 24 in 2002, respec-tively. Tragically, younger Airmen dom-inated the Air Force’s losses.

During this year’s campaign,motor vehicle mishaps accounted for themajority of the fatalities, while sportsand recreation-related mishaps took aclose second. Of the 20 motor vehiclemishaps, nine involved motorcycles and11 involved personal motor vehicles –all off duty. Approximately 70 percent

of the off-duty fatalities this year con-sisted of individuals in the 18-to-25-year-old age group. As conscientiouswingmen, supervisors and leaders, thefocus for next year is very clear. The sta-tistics don’t lie. The majority of AirForce mishaps are younger Airmen onmotorcycles and in cars.

Up to Labor Day during Air ForceSpace Command’s 101 Critical Days,two AFSPC Airmen were killed. One

was killed on a motorcycle and anotherdrowned. Two other losses includeda 50th Space Wing Airman, fromSchriever Air Force Base, who tragicallylost his life in a dorm building here anda Team Pete civilian who lost her life dueto a motorcycle accident.

The final statistics for the 101Critical Days of Summer will be avail-able in the Sept. 15 issue of the SpaceObserver.

101 Critical Days of Summer comes to a close

SPACE OBSERVERThursday, September 8, 20056

NEWS

Gate runner/simple assaultTwo females entered the West Gate

without permission. Security forcesresponded and stopped the vehicle nextto the Child Development Center. Bothfemales were extremely agitated assecurity forces tried to calm them down.One subject advanced toward the securi-ty forces member and had to be subduedand handcuffed. The other female start-ed hitting security forces members withher purse, as they were subduing thefirst suspect. The Colorado SpringsPolice Department was notified andresponded. They issued the first femalea summons and released them.

Damage to private propertySecurity forces responded to a

complaint of a damaged vehicle in theBuilding 3 parking lot. The vehicle’s

rear passenger side window was shat-tered but nothing appeared to be stolen.The reason for the damage is unknown.

Major vehicle accidentSecurity forces responded to a

report of an accident involving twovehicles. A vehicle traveling north onSuffolk Street stopped at a stop signbefore entering Stewart Avenue.

At the same time, a semi-truck waspulling onto Suffolk Street from StewartAvenue. Another vehicle was runningparallel to the semi-truck on StewartAvenue. The first vehicle pulled outfrom Suffolk Street onto Stewart Avenueand hit the vehicle that was running par-allel to the semi-truck. Both vehiclessustained disabling damage and had tobe towed away. An officer from theCSPD issued a summons for a failure toyield after stopping at a stop sign to thefirst vehicle. It’s important to maintainvigilance while driving and make surethe road is clear before pulling out.

Simple assaultSecurity forces responded to a

complaint of an assault in the commis-sary parking lot. A person who was driv-ing in the parking lot noticed a car try-ing to back out of its parking space. Theperson got out of the vehicle and startedhitting the complaintant’s car with hisfists and shouting obscenities, then left.

The complainant reported that shehad not been injured and her vehicle hadnot been damaged. There are no sus-pects at this time.

Larceny/governmentproperty unsecure

Security forces responded to areport of a missing digital camera at thebase fire department. The camera hadlast been seen in late June. The camerawas valued at $2,200. There are no sus-pects or witnesses at this time. There isan investigation pending. People shouldbe aware of and respectful of govern-ment property.

Servicemembers who abuse theprivilege of using government propertyare subject to punishment under theUniform Code of Military Justice.

Suspicious substanceSecurity forces responded to a

report of a suspicious substance underthe counter of the check-in desk at baselodging. Security forces determined thatthe substance was safe to move and tookit to the security forces command center.Tests were conducted on the substanceand it was found to be cocaine.

The Air Force Office of SpecialInvestigations assumed control of theinvestigation. There are no suspects atthis time.

Patrol responseSecurity forces responded to a

complaint about excessive dog feces in aneighbor’s yard. The complainant statedhe had talked with the neighbors butthey disregarded his complaint andmade no attempt to clean it up.

The complainant also contactedthe housing office but they had notresponded. People should show respectfor neighbors and themselves. Anyonewho has animals should make sure toclean up after them.

SPACE OBSERVERThursday, September 8, 2005 7

www.peterson.af.mil NEWS

PersonnelCorner

Readiness briefing mandatory fordeploying, remote tour selectees

This is a mandatory briefing for anyone who isbeing deployed or going on a remote tour.

It educates members on the three phasesinvolved with separation and the programs availablefor the families left behind. Spouses can, and areencouraged to, attend as well. This briefing is offeredweekly and will be held Tuesday from 11 a.m. to noonat the Family Support Center.

Commissary to host cookingcompetition

The Peterson Commissary will hold a cookingcompetition Today at 11 a.m., noon, 1:30 p.m. and2:30 p.m. in front of the commissary. The Lawry'sCooking Caravan will have live TV-style cookingshows with recipes and tips, free food samplesand drawings for prizes. For information, visitwww.lawrys.com.

Servicemembers’ life insuranceexperiences changes

Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance benefi-ciary information ensures government benefits are

paid in accordance with each servicemember’s specif-ic wishes. Due to recent casualty events, Congress hasagreed to increase the SGLI to $400,000 effectivetoday. All servicemembers will have their SGLI auto-matically increased to $400,000 today.

This includes members who have elected todecline the insurance, as well as members who haveelected to change the amount of coverage to less thanfull coverage. September 8 through Oct. 6, service-members who would like to decline the new amount,or change it to a lesser amount of coverage, may do soby visiting the 21st Military Personnel Flight cus-tomer service office, located in Building 350, Room1064, from 7:30 to 9 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays fordedicated SGLI service.

Members may stop by the customer service sec-tion any time between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Mondaythrough Friday. For information, call Staff Sgt. YvonneWilliams at 556-4680.

Sponsorship training class availablefor military, civilian employees

This mandatory class takes place from 7:30 to8:30 a.m. Tuesday at the Family Support Center. Ithighlights all sponsor responsibilities and is heldevery other week.

Peterson Passport Officeannounces new location

The Peterson Passport Office is now located inthe Family Support Center in Building 350, Room1015, with new hours of operation: Mondays from 9

a.m. to noon; Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m.to noon and 1:15 to 3 p.m.

Appointments are required. For information, callJan Kienast at 556-6141.

Staff makes professional developmentcenter schedule available

The First Term Airmen Center will host its nextclasses Sept. 12 through 23, Oct. 17 through 28, Nov.7 through 18, and Dec. 5 through 16. Right DecisionWorkshops are available from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m.Sept. 13, Oct. 18, Nov. 8 and Dec. 6. Mentoring cours-es are offered from 1 to 4 p.m., today, Oct. 20 and Jan.5. Watch for future seminars on the new EnlistedForce Structure, Study Skills, Silver Bullets, Enlistedto Officer, Being a Better Supervisor, Your VirtualCareer and Space Familiarization. Call the careerassistance advisor at 556-9226 for information.

Pre-separation briefing availablefor retiring, separating members

This mandatory briefing takes place everyWednesday at the Family Support Center. This brief-ing is offered every other week for those who areretiring or separating from the military. People mustreceive this briefing no later than 90 days before sep-aration or retirement. This briefing is to ensure mem-bers have sufficient information and time to take fulladvantage of their benefits as a veteran and to explainthe services of the Transition Assistance Program. Forbriefing times, call 556-6141.

SPACE OBSERVERThursday, September 8, 20058

FEATURE

By Senior Master Sgt. Ty FosterCombined Forces Coalition – Afghanistan PublicAffairs

Editor’s note: This is the secondin a series of articles from SeniorMaster Sgt. Ty Foster on his experi-ences while deployed to Bagram AirBase, Afghanistan.

After 12 days in country, the daysare beginning to blur. I wake up at 5:30a.m. and am out the door 20 minuteslater to catch the shuttle to CampEggers, which is just a few minutesaway. I arrive at the camp, clear myweapon, walk to the office and get thecoffee brewing. Then I check my e-mail, go to breakfast, work four hoursand head to lunch. After lunch, I checkout the Post Exchange to see what’snew. Then it’s back to work, checkinge-mail and working some more. Next, Iwatch people open mail, work a littlemore and go to dinner. Then I checkmore e-mail, wrap up work and jumpon the shuttle and am back to the safehouse by 7:30 p.m. Once there, I listento some music, read, shower, preparemy uniform for the next day and lightsare out by 10 p.m. Such is the day inthe life of me.

Now, there’s a lot that goes on in-between to keep it all interesting andfun, as applicable.

The bazaar, on Fridays, is packedwith local vendors hawking their wares.They sell rugs, knives, guns, silk

scarves, clothing, shoes, watches,DVDs, fur coats, gems, jewelry, coins,carvings, sculptures and art. There is an11-year-old boy who draws and paintswith oils and watercolors. He is selftaught and speaks superb English. Heis a pleasure to visit. I’ve asked him topaint a watercolor of him painting awatercolor. “How much?” I asked. “Foryou, my friend, $30,” he said. I wouldhave paid $50. His work is striking – alook into theAfghani’s heritage andspirit. I’m sure I’ll be a regular cus-tomer. The vendors at the bazaar are agood lot of people trying to make a liv-ing from an opportunity placed firmlyat their doorstep – U.S. money.

I listen to their pitches, “This veryfine rug – silk-wool very fine, myfriend. How much to make youhappy?” they’ll ask. I’m not one towant to offend, so I ask them to tell mewhat it’s worth. Then I cut that in halfand start up from there. If we reach animpasse, I walk away. It’s hard to say“no” when you have money in yourpocket, though. This is a rare opportu-nity to buy fine goods at great prices inthe land where they are made.

Last Sunday, I joined three of myco-workers for a trip to the U.S.Embassy compound. The embassy’spublic affairs officer invited us for din-ner – a traditional Afghan barbecue.He’d also invited other public affairspeople and visiting journalists from thearea. So I dined on excellent shish

kabobs, drank soda and visited withItalian army, British army and jour-nalists. For some reason, Icouldn’t get enough oftheir fresh hot peppers –oh, were they hot. Theflat bread was great andthe meat was tender.But of all of the conver-sations to be had thatevening, the one withthe embassy’s PAO wasthe most interesting.

While he talked, Iate – three plates full. He’sa psychologist and lawyerwho has been working in this field forover a decade. He has some stories totell and is a great storyteller, much likemy own dad and brother. As it turns out,his daughter is a snowboarder attendingschool in Switzerland. She’ll be attend-ing college in the states soon. I recom-mended the schools in California, thatway she can enjoy the Sierras and attenda fairly-priced institution. Heck, maybeshe’ll even apply for a job working formy brother Craig at MammothMountain. It’s funny the connectionsthat can be made on the opposite side ofthe globe.

One of my many duties is editingall news releases for Combined ForcesCommand activities. It’s a pretty broadswath we cover – Afghanistan is about1,100 miles from one end to the otherwith more than 18,000 U.S. troops,

3,000troops

from other coun-tries and 20,000 or so

Afghan army soldiers.There are a lot of great news

stories involving our people: Buildingroads, communication systems, wells,schools, hospitals and more. We arehelping a war-torn nation rebuild itself.The Soviets left millions of landminesall over this country and our Coalitionforces are clearing them – it’ll take adecade, but they’ll get it done.

U.S. forces are herding cats – theTaliban, al-Qaeda and otherenemy/criminal forces. Every day, ourpeople go in to harm’s way to help thiscountry grow. Every day, peopleengage in enemy contact. Every day,people are wounded. Thankfully, ourpeople are not dying every day. Butwhen they do, I have eyes on therelease. And after their family has beennotified of their loss, the Departmentof Defense releases their names. Then I

Senior NCO shares first experiences in Afghanistan

See Afghanistan, Page 10

SPORTSSPACE OBSERVERThursday, September 8, 200510

By Stefan Bocchino21st Space Wing Public Affairs

A personal trainer at the Peterson Sports andFitness center is seeking her fourth world champi-onship in body building with the International NaturalBody Building Association.

Leanne Allen won three Miss Olympia worldchampionships in body building with the INBA, from2002 through 2004. She also won the open and overallwomen’s title in Las Vegas at an Organization ofCompetitive Body Builders event held Aug. 27 and 28.

“I have over 20 years of experience as a per-sonal trainer,” Mrs. Allen said. “I have been interna-tionally certified in three countries including theUnited States.”

Her certifications include Clinical ExerciseSpecialist from American Council for Exercise.

“A Clinical Exercise Specialist is allowed towork with people who have had serious medical prob-lems such as a heart attack, diabetes and arthritis,”Mrs. Allen said. “It’s a high level of training above theexpertise of a personal trainer.”

Her clientele at the gym includes people from allage groups, including retirees. She said she enjoyshelping people make lifestyle changes, whether it is forhealth and well-being or to train for a specific sport.

“I used Mrs. Allen as a personal trainer while Iwas training for my black belt in Tai Kwan Do,” saidMaj. Jessica Macdonald, 21st Services Squadron com-mander. “She is very patient and good at listening towhat your specific needs are. She helped me go thatlittle bit extra while I was training.”

Originally from Australia, Mrs. Allen has trav-eled all over the world as a competitor and trainer.She met her husband, retired Army Master SergeantTony Allen who is also a body builder, in theMiddle East at a gym.

Prior to taking up bodybuilding, Mrs. Allen wasan aerobics instructor. She has competed in middle-and long-distance running and aerobics in addition tobody building.

Prior to each competition, participants are testedfor performance enhancing drugs, such as steroids.If a participant’s test shows a positive result, theyare banned from competition and stripped of anymedals received.

Mrs. Allen said a key to participating in eventssuch as these is getting local sponsorship. She is cur-rently seeking sponsors for her next event.

Her next INBA competition is in November. Byplacing well in that event, she will be eligible to com-pete with Team USA in body building events for herfourth Miss Olympia title.

Three-time world champ trains Team Pete members

add their name to my list of those whohave died in Operation EnduringFreedom. I do not take that task lightly.They have given their all never to walkthis earth again. Never to laugh, cry,

love or hurt. They were taken by anenemy who does not care about what’sgood for his own people. They diedbecause they cared enough to stand up,take an oath, live by their word and dieby it. They never took a life lightly.They didn’t give theirs lightly, either.

So, when I add their name to the list, Ithink of them, their hometowns, theirfamilies and friends – they lost too. Butall is not for naught.

The Afghan people will prevail.They will win their victory and standup a nation with a strong democracy.

We can look back on that and say “Iwas part of that.” You, too, are part ofthat. Have faith. The successes we’veseen here will be the successes of Iraq,too. It just takes time. Unfortunately, ittakes blood, sweat and tears – some ofthem, our own.

Afghanistan, from Page 8

Photo by Stefan BocchinoLeanne Allen, sports and fitness center personaltrainer, helps spot Staff Sgt. Cody Hynes, 21stLogistics Readiness Squadron, during a workoutTuesday. Sergeant Hynes is getting ready todeploy in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

SPACE OBSERVERThursday, September 8, 200512 FEATURE

Chevy’s Log Entry X: “I find I am lost in space”By P.C. “Chevy” ChevallardSpace Observer stringer writer

Editor’s note: This is the tenth ina series of articles written by retired Lt.Col. P.C. “Chevy” Chevallard, formercommander and conductor of The U.S.Air Force Academy Band. He is a stu-dent pilot in pursuit of his privatepilot’s license through the Peterson AirForce Base Aero Club.

I admit it. I’m a guy – and agrumpy fifty-something guy, at that. Ihate to ask for directions. And despitethe indisputable advice about “lost nav-igation procedures” the Peterson AeroClub offered, I packed this timeworn“guy attitude” into my not-so-timewornpilot’s bag on the day I took my firstsolo cross-country flight. Not long aftertakeoff, however, I was faced with apotentially life-threatening choice – Icould risk landing my T41-Charlie highin the Rockies, I could keep it flyinguntil I found that heavenly landing strip

where God is my Air Traffic Controller,or I could ask for help. Reluctantly –and thankfully – I chose the latter.

Clearly, I hesitated to ask becauseof my recently increased piloting abili-ties. After all, in the months since I’dlast submitted for your approval aSpace Observer Log Entry, I’d investedminutes – tens of minutes – masteringmany new skills. Clearly, I’d learnedabout “pilotage:” navigating by lookingout your airplane’s big window, “deadreckoning” navigating by watchingyour watch’s big hand to verify you’ve

reached your planned checkpoints ontime, and “Very High Frequency Omni-Directional Range navigation:” navigat-ing by centering that white thingy onthe VOR receiver as one flies toward aspecific radio beam broadcasting fromone’s destination. Look out, ChuckYeager. Look out, Capt. Kirk. Lookout, below. I was on my way toTrinidad, Colo., “Where the plains andthe mountains meet, and legends wereborn ...”

Legends, indeed. “Danger, WillRobinson.”

It was all going so swell, too. Mytakeoff from Colorado Springs was per-fect. I masterfully handled the radio,followed each of the tower’s directions,called Departure Control, called PuebloApproach, and then cheerfully declinedPueblo’s offer for “Flight Following,” aservice by which Denver Air TrafficControl would track my entire flight onradar. I even accepted an air-to-airradio call from my instructor pilot, who

checked in to see if I was okay whilehe ferried skydivers out of CanyonCity’s Fremont County Airport. “All’swell,” I told him. “I’m a pilot!”

As I flew along, I said to myself,“There’s Pike’s Peak InternationalRaceway. There’s Pueblo Reservoir.There’s Interstate 25 snaking away tothe west. Say, how long’s it been sincemy last checkpoint? Why doesn’t thatrailroad track look like it does on mymap? Where’s that ranch I picked as mynext checkpoint? What are those powerlines doing below my wing? Hey, wheredid they move Cucharas Reservoir?Cucharas is where I’m supposed tomake that course correction to Trinidad.

When you’re flying, you can’t juststop and ask for directions. A coldsweat formed on my brow. I had to getback on my flight path. Taking a deepbreath, I swallowed my pride and exe-cuted the “Five C’s” I’d been carefullytaught: climb, to gain a better view of

When you’re flying,you can’t just stop andask for directions. A coldsweat formed on mybrow. I had to get back onmy flight path.

”“

See Lost, Page 22

SPACE OBSERVERThursday, September 8, 200514

NEWS

By Stefan Bocchino21st space Wing Public Affairs

Military working dogs from the 21st SecurityForces Squadron at Peterson Air Force Base compet-ed in the Colorado Police K-9 Association Police K-9 Challenge held Aug. 27 and 28, in Denver.

Three teams from the 21st SFS took part ina two-day competition against Colorado policeK-9 units, said Staff Sgt. Joe Villalobos, 21st SFSMWD trainer.

The f irst day of competition was at theLakewood training area at the federal building,while the second day of competition was held at

Invesco Field at Mile High.The three teams consisted of Staff Sgt. Jessie

Tames and Chaky; Staff Sgt. Bruce Estep and Reno;and Senior Airman Leo Peters and Mowgli. MasterSgt. Richard Vanwinkle, noncommissioned officerin charge of the MWD section said this was the sec-ond annual K-9 challenge, but the first time that 21stSFS MWD took part.

The 21st SW MWD teams won three awards inthe competition. Sergeant Tames and Chaky placedsecond in handler protection and first in agility.Sergeant Estep and Reno placed second in agility.

“The MWD teams train daily,” said SergeantVanWinkle. “Taking part in competitions like this

helps build team morale.”These competitions puts the handlers in differ-

ent situations that they might have to deal with, saidSergeant VanWinkle. The decisions they make dur-ing the competition, right or wrong, will be scruti-

Military working dogs place in K-9 challengeTaking part in competitionslike this helps build team

morale.

– Master Sgt. VanWinkle

“ ”See K-9, Page 22

... a warm send off... a warm send offBy Staff Sgt. Derrick M. Gildner302nd Airlift Wing Public Affairs

That Sunday morning inlate August a warm breezeushered people into Bldg.210, Hangar Bay 1here.

Servicemembersin desert camou-flage uniformsshared refresh-ments withloved ones. Some found a quiet corner to reflect. A few smallgroups of children joined together like bees to chase, play andbuzz with life amongst nervous adults.

On Aug. 28, more than 100 activated reservists and three C-130s from the 302nd Airlift Wing departed for the Middle East tosupport Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Among the family members were support staff fromthe 302nd Military Personnel Flight. “We had no shortage ofvolunteers lending a hand for our deploying members, everyonefrom Lt. Col. Chaplain Dwight Mitchell to Diane Kane lenttheir assistance,” said Tech. Sgt. Waihini Gaditano, director offamily readiness.

“We had refreshments for family members and special guestswho were wishing their friends and spouses a safe farewell,” saidSergeant Gaditano. “Those helping tried to make servicemem-

bers’ last few momentsas comfortable as

possible.”While the 302nd Military

Personnel Flight Family Readinessoffice played a large role before depar-ture, 302nd Personnel Readinessprocessed the needed paperwork toactually deploy the reservists. Technical

Sgt. Lissy Slezak, chief of personnelreadiness, said her office processed more

than 200 orders in one day to ensure the reservistswere ready to deploy.

“Although my office doesn't handle face-to-face familyissues, I try to get orders processed properly to avoid any unneces-sary disruption with their pay.” Sergeant Slezak said she wentdown to the hangar to see off familiar faces who have becomefriends over her five years serving here.

“I'm continually impressed with the professional and positiveattitude displayed by our deploying members; I heard no com-plaints,” she said.

At the farewell sendoff, Brig. Gen. William Kane, 302nd AWcommander, was joined by U.S. Rep. Joel Hefley and his wife,State Rep. Lynn Hefley, as well as Brig. Gen. Richard Webber,21st Space Wing commander.

The departure of troops concluded with members of the wingleadership saluting the departing C-17 as it took off toward theeastern sky.

302nd AAirlift WWing rreceives ....

Photo by Master Sgt. Heldwin BritoMaster Sgt. Victor Sena, 302nd Maintenance Squadron, hydraulic systems technician, holds his grand-daughter, Brionna Conley, close before deploying.

Photo by Master Sgt. Heldwin BritoSenior Master Sgt. James Rucker, 731st Airlift Squadron, C-130 flight engineer, snuggles one ofhis two-month-old triplets prior to deploying.

Photo by Master Sgt. Heldwin BritoMarie Quick wipes away tears while holding her 8-month-old son,Tyler. Her husband, StaffSgt. James Quick, 302nd Maintenance Squadron, aircraft structural maintainer, is alreadyon the C-17 Globemaster III on his way to support Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Photo by 2nd Lt. Jody RitchieFrom left to right: Rachelle Digiulio, Hannah Solich, Mikaelea andAmy Digiulio and Susan Solich are on hand to send off Lt. Col. BobChapman, 731st Airlift Squadron, commander.

Photo by Master Sgt. Heldwin BritoTechnical Sgt. Don Steuber (left), 302nd Maintenance Squadron,aircraft fuels systems journeyman, receives a deployment packagefrom Chief Master Sgt. Ron Bebow, 302nd MXS, maintenancesuperintendent.

Photo by 2nd Lt. Jody RitchieSenior Airman Michael Gonzalez, 302nd Maintenance Squadron, air-craft electrical and environmental systems journeyman, picks outchemical warfare gear for the deployment.

Photo by Staff Sgt. Derrick GildnerSeven-year-old Brennan Sinchak, sports his father's desert camouflage cap and watches intently as the 302nd Airlift Wing prepares for deployment. His father, MasterSgt. Michael Sinchak, 302nd Maintenance Squadron, electronic warfare systems supervisor, was among the deployers.

By Nel LampeMountaineer staff

tate parks are the ideal placefor spending time in outdooractivities, such as hiking,camping or picnicking. At

present, the closest Colorado StatePark is Mueller State Park, about 25miles west of Colorado Springs justoff Highway 24. It’s one of 40 stateparks in Colorado.

Two other state parks are furtherwest. Eleven Mile Park is about 40miles west on Highway 24 south ofLake George. Spinney Mountain StatePark is a few miles further west, overWilkerson Pass.

Pueblo State Park is about 50miles away, just west of Pueblo. A lakeprovides boating activities and there is

a swim beach.Cheyenne Mountain State

Park is directly across from FortCarson’s Gate 1. The park iscurrently under construction. Itwill have hik- ing trails,amphitheaters and camping.

All Colorado State Parks arescenic, have trails, wildlife andoutdoor recreation. Most of theparks have camping and themajority of them have lakes andwater activities available.

Although Mueller StatePark, one of the state’s newerparks, doesn’t have water activi-ties available, it is one of thetop 10 most-visited parks inColorado. More than 200,000people visit the park each year.

Mueller State Park was oncea cattle ranch owned by the

Mueller family. The scenery is dra-

matic. Stands of ever-green and aspen trees arethick. Ranges of snow-capped Rocky Mountains can beseen in the distance. Campsitesare shaded and the aroma ofpine trees fills the air.

Mountains as far away asLeadville can be clearly seenfrom the park. A “Big ViewOverlook” is across the parkinglot from the visitor center.Various mountains are identifiedon a map in the overlook.

The 5,121 acre-park openedin 1991 and included some 90camping sites. Because the siteswere so popular, another 40sites were added.

Wildlife in Mueller StatePark is abundant. Herds of elkand bighorn sheep roam the park.

Other wildlife that may be seen in thepark includes deer, bears, rabbits, badg-ers, coyotes, mountain lions, porcu-pines, chipmunks and foxes. Numerousbirds can be seen in the park.

Visitors should stop at the visitorcenter where several first-classexhibits depict the history of the parkand exhibits show some of the park’swildlife residents.

Other exhibits display the area’sconnection to gold mining and geolog-ical history. A ranger is on duty toanswer visitors’ questions.

Mueller State Park has 50 miles ofhiking trails. All 33 trails are namedand numbered. Hikers can pick up atrail map at the visitor center or at thepark’s entrance. Trails are designated Places to see in the

Pikes Peak area.

Mueller State Park was once a ranch. The historyof the park is depicted in a display.

Pike’s View Pond is one of the many pondslocated at Mueller State Park.

Photos by Nel LampeMueller State Park is one of the most popular Colorado State Parks. It has stands of pine and aspen trees, scenic viewsand camping and hiking trails. The park is visited by more than 200,000 people each year.

Mueller State Park

Scenic vieScenic viewsws,,camping andcamping and

hiking drhiking draaw visitorw visitorss

See Mueller, Page 20

S

SPACE OBSERVERThursday, September 8, 200520 HAPPENINGS

as easy, medium and difficult. Hikers shouldstay on the established trails and sign the log atthe trailhead before setting out. Pets are notallowed on the trails. Trails are designated foruse for trail bikes and horses — bring your ownhorse or rent one at the concession in the park.

Warm weather activities enjoyed by parkusers include camping, fishing, hiking, picnick-ing, photography or just looking at the wildlifeand spectacular scenery.

A few picnic sites are available near the visitor center entrance at Mueller State Park.Restroom facilities are available at the visitorcenter and in the camping area. Shower andlaundry facilities are available as well as adump station.

Fishing is allowed at ponds which require atwo-mile walk to reach. Ask at the visitor centerfor fishing locations. A Colorado fishinglicense is required.

As good as the scenery, picnicking and hiking are, camping may be the Mueller StatePark’s best asset. The park has about 130 campsites located in a forest of spruce, fir and aspentrees. Campers can enjoy roughing it in the deepwoods, less than an hour from home. There isalso a group campground which can be reserved.

Most sites have electric hookups and can beused by a recreation vehicle or a tent. There are22 walk-in sites for tent use. The walk-in sitesare 50 to 400 yards away from the parking areaand all equipment must be carried to the site.

Mueller State Park can accommodate allkinds of campers – tent, motor home or trail-er. New this year, for people who like the out-doors but don’t want to sleep in a sleepingbag, cot or on the ground, there are three fullyfurnished log cabins.

The smallest cabin is Pine Cabin, whichsleeps four people and rents for $80 per night,with a two-night minimum. Spruce Cabin sleeps eight people and rents for $160 per night,two-night minimum. Ponderosa Cabin also rentsfor $160 per night and sleeps 10 people with aminimum of two nights’ stay.

The cabins are furnished in a rustic, comfort-

able, western/antiquetheme. Beds, linens, coffeemakers, stove, refrigeratorand dishes are furnished.The cabins have runningwater as well as furnaces,gas fireplaces and outdoorgas grills.

But, there are nophones, no cellular serv-ice, no internet and notelevisions. No pets areallowed in the cabins.

The cabins are anideal place for a familygathering or group offriends, with plenty of room to congregate inthe privacy of your own cabin, with some of thecomforts of home.

Campers at Mueller State Park sometimesuse the park as headquarters, with side trips toEleven Mile State Park to fish.

Other optional day trips from Muellerinclude Florissant Fossil Beds NationalMonument, 12 miles from Mueller State Park.

The old gold-mining town of Cripple Creek isabout 12 miles south on Highway 67, with muse-ums, shopping, dining and casinos available.

The historic mining town of Victor is a fewmiles south of Cripple Creek. Victor is muchsmaller, but has the Lowell Thomas museum, asmall local museum, a few antique stores andshops and a couple of places to eat.

Woodland Park is about 20 miles fromMueller State Park, with several restaurants and fast food places, a multi-plex movie theater,grocery store, doughnut shop and the RockyMountain Dinosaur Resource Center. ManitouLake is north of Woodland Park and is availablefor picnicking or fishing.

Visitors to Mueller State Park must have apass to use the park. A day pass is available atthe entrance for $5 per day, or visitors can buyan annual pass, which can be used at allColorado State Parks.

Campground reservations may be madefrom April through September.

To make reservations for a camping site, call(800) 678-CAMP or 687-2366. A few walk-insites are open in winter, but do not have water.

See the cabins by going online atwww.muellerstatepark.org.

Because of the popularity of camping atMueller State Park, having a reservation isnecessary.

Mueller State Park is at 9,500 feet altitude.Keep high-altitude precautions in mind. Usesunscreen, bring drinking water along on hikesand prepare for weather changes.

To reach Mueller State Park, take theCimarron Street Exit off Interstate 25. FollowCimarron Street, Highway 24, west throughWoodland Park to Divide. At Divide, turn southon Highway 67, go about three miles to thepark entrance.

Just the Facts• Travel time: 40 minutes• For ages: all• Type: state park• Fun factor: 1/2

(Out of 5 stars)• Wallet damage: $ (entry)

$ = Less than $20$$ = $21 to $40

$$$ = $41 to $60$$$$ = $61 to $80

(Based on a family of four)Exhibits in Mueller State Park Visitor Center showsome of the park’s wildlife.

Camping sites at Mueller State Park have picnictables and open pits for grilling.

The visitor center at Mueller State Park hasexhibits and scenic views.

Three cabins are now available at Mueller State Park. The cabins are nice-ly furnished, but without electronic amenities.

Mueller, from Page 19

SPACE OBSERVERThursday, September 8, 2005 21

www.peterson.af.mil HAPPENINGS

Melodrama“Farther North to Laughter” at 6 p.m., Tuesdays,

Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays in the IronSprings Melodrama Dinner Theater, 444 Ruxton Ave.,Manitou Springs. Dinner and show cost $24; call685-5104 for information.

“The Star Crossing,” by Cripple Creek Playersis at 8 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays in the ButteOpera House in Cripple Creek. Tickets start at $7.There are 2 p.m. matinees the same days, exceptFridays. Call 689-2513 for information.

Arnold Hall TheaterThe Academy Concerts’ new season opens with

the “Will Rogers Follies,” Sept. 16, followed by“Mame,” Oct. 28; “Babes in Toyland,” Dec. 10;“Broadway’s Spirit of Christmas,” Dec. 18; “StarSpangled Celebration,” March 5; and “MannheimSteamroller,” April 27. Season tickets are available.For information, call 333-4497.

Fine Arts CenterThe Repertory Theater at the Fine Arts Center

has announced its new season of musicals. “AnythingGoes,” is Sept. 30 through Oct. 23; “She Loves Me,”is Nov. 18 through Dec. 11; “La Cage Aux Folles,” isFeb. 10 through March 5; and “The Pirates of

Penzance,” is May 12 through June 4. Call 634-5583or go online at www.csfineartscenter.org for ticketinformation.

Broadway seasonThe Pikes Peak Center Broadway season begins

with “Chicago,” Oct. 4 and 5; “Oklahoma,” March 29and 30; and “The Producers,” May 5, 6 and 7. Anadditional show, “Stomp,” is set for June 13 through18. For information, call 520-7462. Season tickets arenow being sold. The theater is located at 190 S.Cascade Ave., in downtown Colorado Springs.

Scottish/Irish festivalLongs Peak Scottish/Irish Highland Festival is at

9 a.m. in Estes Park, Friday through Sunday. Activitiesbegin at 9 a.m. each day, and include bands, dancing,jousting and dog exhibitions. Admission is charged, goonline to www.scotfest.com.

2005 Falcon Football Game ScheduleSaturday: San Diego St vs. Air Force

Game Time: TBASept. 17: Wyoming vs. Air Force

Game Time: TBASept. 22: Air Force vs. Utah

Game Time: 5:30 p.m.Sept. 29: Air Force vs. Colorado State

Game Time: 5:30 p.m.Oct. 8: Air Force vs. Navy

Game Time: 1:30 p.m.Oct. 15: UNLV vs. Air Force

Game Time: TBAOct. 22: Texas Christian vs. Air Force

Game Time: TBAOct. 29: Air Force vs. BYU

Game Time: TBANov. 5: Army vs. Air Force

Game Time: TBANov. 19: Air Force vs. New Mexico

Game Time: TBA

4-88 pp.m. TTuesday, SSeptember 113At tthe OOfficers CClub

The eevent iis ffree aand wwill iinclude mmore tthan 330 vvendors,games aand mmore tthan $$1000 iin ddoor pprize ggive-aaways.

This eevent iis oopen tto eeveryone!For mmore iinformation, vvisit wwww.petersonspousesclub.com

Peterson SSpouses’ CClub AAnnual IInformation FFair

Don’t mmiss tthis oopportunity ttomeet oother sspouses, jjoin nnon-profit oorganizations aand llearn

about tthe CColorado SSprings aarea.

SPACE OBSERVERThursday, September 8, 200522 FEATURE

one’s surroundings; communicate, “PuebloDeparture, Cessna 7874N, I’m unsure of my posi-tion.” Pueblo immediately forwarded me to DenverAir Traffic Control for Flight Following; confess“Denver Center, I’m a student pilot; first solo crosscountry; I’m lost”; comply “Roger. Fly heading 170to Trinidad and advise when I have Perry StokesTrinidad Airport in sight” and conserve I reduced myspeed to conserve fuel for the 20 minute flight toTrinidad, even though I had more than four hours offuel on board.

This was a moment of truth. On my very firstsolo cross-country flight, on a beautiful, cloudless,Colorado, May morning, at less than one mile abovethe ground and less than 30 minutes south of mydeparture airport, with I-25 and the Rockies off myright wing and Trinidad’s Fisher’s Peak, visible to my

southeast, I declared myself to be lost. Was doing so embarrassing? Yes. Many “lost”

pilots have never called for navigation assistance.Avoidable? Probably. I knew more or less where Iwas. I probably could have “faked it” and reachedTrinidad. Doing so, however, might have caused fur-ther deviations from my filed flight plan, lengthenedmy flight, burned more fuel, and increased my levelof fatigue. Wise? Absolutely.

By applying the terrific training the PetersonAero Club gave me, I landed at Trinidad, successfullyflew the rest of my assigned cross country route,learned how Flight Following works, and kept myselfand others safe.

And maybe – just maybe – I learned a “guy les-son” my wife’s been trying to teach me throughoutour thirty-three years together – “Please just asksomeone for directions!”

Lost, from Page 14 K-9, from Page 14

nized by their peers.“The biggest benefit is we can bring these

experiences home and incorporate them into ourtraining, resulting in better dog teams protecting theFront Range,” said Sergeant VanWinkle. “We get tomeet with other handlers and form bonds and friend-ships which results in information sharing, onceagain leading to better training for our teams forcompetition and real world scenarios.

“Jim Beinlich, owner of Cool K-9s dog train-ing, deserves a lot of credit for our success,” thekennel master said. “He does a lot of training withus throughout the year, but he gave up a lot of hisfree time over the last few weeks to help train thedogs for this competition.”