Reasonable Accommodationsby Kelly. M. BuchheitOffice df Equal Employment Opportunity

The Americans With DisabilitiesAct of 1990 (ADA) is the lawthat prohibits discrimination

against qualified disabled persons inemployment. It also prohibits discrim­ination in providing governmentservices, transportation, publicaccommodations, and telecommuni­cations.

This law covers all State and localgovernment agencies, employmentagencies, labor organizations, labor­management committees, and allemployers with 15 or more employees.This means that an employer cannotrefuse to hire a disabled person whocan perform the essential functions ofa job with or without reasonableaccommodation.

A reasonable accommodation is anychange or adjustment to a job or workenvironment that permits a qualifiedapplicant or employee with a disabili­ty to participate in the job applicationprocess, to perform the essential func­tions of a job, or to enjoy benefits andprivileges of employment equal tothose enjoyed by an employee withouta disability. Reasonable accommoda­tions may include: providing or modi­fying equipment or devices, part-timeor modified work schedules, reassign­ment to a vacant position, or provid­ing readers and interpreters.

Employers are required to providereasonable accommodations to quali­fied applicants or employees unlessthe employer can prove that theaccommodation creates undue hard­ship.

It is a common belief that most rea­sonable accommodations are expen­sive. However, job accommodations

2 NSA Newsletter

are usually not expensive and canreduce workers' compensation andother insurance costs: According tothe Job Accommodation Network ofthe President's Committee onEmployment of People with Disabili­ties:

-:-31 percent of accommodations costnothing,

-:-50 percent cost less than $50,-:-69 percent cost less than $500, and-:-88 percent cost less than $1,000.

Examples of job accommodationsand associated costs include:

-:-changing a desk layout from theright to the left side for a data entryoperator with a shoulder injury(cost $0),

-:-supplying a telephone amplifier fora computer programmer who ishard of hearing (cost $56),

-:-providing a special chair for a dis­trict sales agent to alleviate paincaused by a back injury (cost $400),

-:·using an articulating keyboard trayto alleviate strain of repetitivemotion and carpal tunnel syndrome(cost $150),

-:-supplying an antiglare computerscreen for a person with an eye dis­order-glare on screen causes fatigue(cost $9),

·:-providing a revolving file holder fora clerk whose hand use is limitedand is unable to access files locatedacross the desk (cost $85),

·:·providing a telephone headset foran employee with cerebral palsy(cost $50),

-:-providing a deaf technician with alight indicator to notify him when atimer goes off (cost $27), and

·:·changing an employee's schedule toallow for necessary rest breaks dur­ing the day (cost $0).

NSA's Disability Affairs Programensures that, when possible, reason­able accommodations are provided toemployees with disabilities enablingthem to be a productive part of theAgency's work force.

Disability Awareness MonthEventsOctober 6 and 7, Sign LanguageWorkshops, 9:00-10:00 a.m., OPS2B, Room 2B4118-1 (register via theEEO HomePage)

October 14, KeYnote Address, "It'sNot the Disability, It's the Ability,"Dana Bowman, 2:00-3:00 p.m. (regis­ter via the EEO HomePage)

Ongoing, Gallaudet University ArtShow, OPS 1, 2nd floor hallway and1st floor display cases

Information derived from the Job Accom­modation Network and the President'sCouncil on Employing People with Dis­abilities Websites.

October 1999

D I R N SA'S DE,S K

Combined Federal Campaign

September marked the start of the 1999 Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) season at theNational Security Agency/Central Security Service. Thank you to all the CFC keyworkers, coordi­nators, and canvassers who administer this important fundraising program. You provide an impor­tant service to your community.

I also commend all of you who currently give to charity, and I encourage you to continue giving.Many of you who support charitable organizations find the CFC to be an excellent and convenientway to contribute. NSA employees have contributed more than $1 million every year since 1987,and we are the largest supporter in the Central Maryland region, contributing 26 percent of theregion's total contributions.

Although NSA employees have supported the CFC continuously over the past 34 years, I feelcompelled to write to those of you who are not currently supporting a charity, or who may not beaware of the value and convenience of the CFC program. The CFC is comprised of more than2,300 different charitable organizations, and your contribution to these organizations is likely toprovide a direct benefit to you, your loved ones, your neighbors, and coworkers. In addition to thevariety of charities available through the program, the CFC allows you to donate to the organiza­tion of your choice through an easy, private, and flexible process right here at NSA.

Three out of every five people in the Central Maryland region will need the assistance providedby CFC charities at least once. When you make a donation, you actually contribute to a type of"insurance" plan for yourself, your family, and others in your community. If you or a family membersuffer from conditions like Alzheimer's disease, heart disease, Down's syndrome, or breast cancer,then you would likely benefit from the services provided by several CFC agencies-and these are justa few examples. Even if you are very fortunate and never need such assistance, your giving will begreatly appreciated by those you help. This year's theme, "To Offer Help...is to Offer Hope!" is awonderful way to express the great impact that you can make through a contribution this season.

Through the CFC process, you can pledge easily and privately online via the CFC Web applica­tion on the NSA Net, or you can complete a hardcopy application furnished by your CFC canvass­er. Either way, you have the flexibility to choose the organizations you wish to support, and candetermine the amount and frequency of your contributions. Even if you can only make a small one­time donation, your support will be greatly appreciated.

I encourage you to reflect upon the benefits and value of the CFC charities, and I urge you tojoin us in leaving a footprint of hope in 1999, as we step forward to offer help for the newmillennium.

October 1999 NSA Newsletter 3

Open Season on Health Benefits..

Once again, it is time for Federalemployees to sort through stacks ofbrochures in search of the best healthbenefits plan to meet their needs.This year's Open Season will runfrom November 8 through December13, 1999, with an effective date ofJanuary 2, 2000.

During the annual Open Season,employees may enroll in a plan,change plans, or change from oneoption to another within the sameplan. Employees may not be coveredunder two Federal health plans at thesame time. However, employees maycancel their health benefits coverageor change from family to self-only atany time throughout the year-theseare not considered Open Seasonchanges.

11f11111111~I_i~1~1~~~~~~~IIIJI_I~~~~~1

1~'.I'~\'lflli~.t;~I~~rll~il'lftlr~1[il(~~11Itlll•••-il~'I~I~~11ijllil~lil••

4 NSA Newsletter

When contemplating retirement,it is important to know that individ­uals must be covered unqer a Federalhealth plan (either as the enrollee oras a dependent) for the 5 consecutiveyears of service immediately preced­ing retirement. This is required tocontinue coverage as an annuitant.Therefore, this Open Season might bethe time to consider starting anenrollment. Employees who wereenrolled in the Federal EmployeesHealth Benefits Program as of Octo­ber 1, 1996, may be eligible for a waiv­er of this requirement. Contact anIntegrated Personnel Activiry (IPA) formore information.

Submit Forms EarlyThe IPAs and the NSA Customer

Service Centers (NSA CSC) willaccept enrollment or change forms.Forms may also be submitted to theHealth Benefits Office (HBO) locatedin SAB 1, room CNOL The earlier aform is submitted, the sooner an iden­tification card from the new plan willbe received. Under normal circum­stances, enrollees receive an identifi­cation card within 6 to 8 weeks afterthe effective date. Unfortunately, thistime frame can double during theOpen Season due to the enormousvolume of Federal participants withthe health carriers. Submitting formsduring the first part of the Open Sea­son may eliminate having to pay forcovered medical expenses out of pock­et until membership is establishedwith the carrier. This frequentlyoccurs if the identification card is notreceived by the effective date. It maynot be possible for all employees tomake a decision during the first weekor two of the Open Season. If forms

are submitted during the last few days,make every possible effort to hand­carry them to either an IPA or to theHBO in SAB 1, room SICN03.

In deciding which plan is best, thefollowing information is provided forconsideration:

Fee-for-Service Plans (i.e. BlueCross/Blue Shield, GEHA) offer thegreatest freedom of choice in selectingdoctors and hospitals. In addition,these plans provide coverage ifemployees or family members travelextensively and want protection whenaway from home or for childrenattending college out of town or outof state. Usually, fee-for-service plansprovide a higher level of benefits forlong-term treatment requiring physi­cal therapy and outpatient mental­health services. However, these plansalso have the greatest out-of-pocketexpenses because of deductibles andcopayments on some services. Manyfee-for-service plans require annualmembership dues to enroll. This costis in addition to the biweeklypremium.

Health Maintenance Organizations(HMOs) or Pre-paid Plans (i.e. AetnaUS Health Care, Kaiser Permanente)are better suited for those who wanthealth care with few out,,.of-pocket costfor physicals, office visits, and immu­nizations. There are no deductibles.HMOs provide preventive care formembers of all ages at little or nocharge other than the biweekly premi­um and the copayments. Medicalrecords are in a central location andall medical needs are coordinated by aprimary physician at the medical cen­ter. All referrals to specialist physiciansmust also be coordinated with, andapproved by, the appropriate individ­ual in the organization.

October 1999'

Point of Service (POS) Plans (Le. FreeState, Prudential) offer a managedcare product that provides memberswith $e option of using a selectednetwork of providers. These plans area combination of a fee-far-service andHMO plan. If interested in a POSplan, review the plan brochure formore details, because not all servicescan be obtained out of the network.

Be aware that HMO plans reservethe right to terminate any physician,or to disapprove any referral, any time.However, individuals may not changefrom their health plan anytime. Ifyour primary care physician is termi­nated from the HMO plan, anotherphysician within the same HMO planwill be provided. Individuals may notchange plans until the next qualifyingevent (usually the next Open Season).

Membership in an HMO mayrequire residence within a specificgeographic location, which is differentfor each plan. Individuals travellingoutside the plan's designated servicearea will only be covered for an emer­gency or life-threatening situation.Payment of medical benefits for out­of-the-area services will be delayedbecause of additional approvalsrequired by the plan.

Read the BrochuresTo make a responsible decision

regarding which health plan is best,take the time to read the newbrochures. Even if individuals do notplan to make an Open Season change,it is important to review the new 2000brochures for current plans becausepremiums and coverage may change.

The 2000 Enrollment InformationComparison Guides will be distrib­uted throughout the Agency when theshipment is received. The comparisonguide and individual plan brochures(for plans that provide an electronic

October 1999

form) will also be available on theNSA WEBWORLD. The Retirementand Insurance HomePage is located atwww.s.nsa/retirement/index.html,and the OPM Web is located on theInternet at http://www.opm.gov/insure. NSA does not receive a copyfor each employee. U~e the guide as atool to narrow choices. Brochures maybe obtained from an IPA, NSA CSC,HBO, or electronically at the aboveaddress. For additional assistance,contact an IPA or the HBO at 963­4524(s) or 410-854-6063.

DS Award for Excellence

The Support Services Directorate(DS) is soliciting nominations for thesecond annual DS Award for Excel­lence (DSAFE). It is time to startthinking about all the Support Ser­vices personnel who provided excep­tional service throughout FY99, andwrite a nomination today!

The DSAFE is the highest honoraryaward that a DS individual or DS-ledteam may be awarded. The award rec­ognizes OS teams and individualswho excel in customer focus, knowl­edge sharing and teaming, and whomake outstanding contributions toDS corporate goals. OS-led teams thatinclude members from other KeyComponents are also eligible.Awardees will be recognized at a cere­mony in April 2000.

Submissions will be accepted fromOctober 1 through November 15. Foradditional information regarding thisaward, visit the DSAFE Website athttp://www.s.nsa/excellence or visitthe nearest Customer Service Centeror Integrated Personnel Activity/Human Resource Center. Questionsmay also be sent via E-mail to theDSAFE alias, dsafe.

ANSWERS TO THEOCTOBER PUZZLE

NSA Newsletter 5

Cohen Says Department of Defense Ready for Y2K..

American Forces Information Service

Secretary of Defense William S.Cohen declared the Departmentof Defense (DOD) ready to face

the final challenges of the Year 2000computer problem.

During the 6-year period fromFY96 through FYOl, DOD expects tospend approximately $3.7 billion forY2K fixes.

The so-called millennium bug, orY2K problem, refers to the inability ofmany computers to process certaindates, especially those ending with thedigits "00."

The DOD has undertaken an enor­mous effort to ensure Y2K readiness.DOD is responsible for 1/3 of all mis­sion critical computer systems in theFederal government and liz of allFederal computer systems.

In a press conference at the Penta­gon earlier this year, Cohen noted theDepartment's current progress: morethan 92 percent of DOD's 2,107 mis­sion critical systems are fully Y2Kcompliant; 94 percent of 4,749 non­mission critical systems are fixed andimplemented; and more than 99 per­cent of 637 installations are compli­ant.

In approximately 6 percent of cases,systems are not yet "completed" sincea known fix has yet to be installed atmany locations. Completion of thesesystems has been affected by opera­tional deployment schedules, such asfor carrier battle groups when the fixwill be made upon return to homeport. Consequently, more than 99percent of the Department's missioncritical systems will be fixed, tested,and installed by the end of September

6 NSA Newsletter

1999, and the remainder by the endof the year.

This progress follows a large-scaleeffort to handle Y2K as a militaryreadiness issue, not just as a computerprogrammer function. In August1998, Secretary Cohen reviewed Y2Kcompliance in the Department andfound it had gotten off to a slow start.To speed the process, he directedDOD's leadership to treat the Y2Kissue as a major threat to militaryreadiness. The unified military com­mands were asked to ensure Y2K test­ing was included in joint warfightingand operational readiness exercises.The Services and Defense Agencieswere instructed to fix their systems,certify interfaces, and ensure vendorswere held responsible for Y2K com­pliance of products. Finally, officialson the Secretary's staff were told toensure functioning of specific busi­ness processes, including financialtransactions, health activities, andsupply lines.

These initiatives have acceleratedY2K fixes, testing, and implementa­tion. Y2K has led to the largest testingeffort in the Department's history.Examples range from a massive end­to-end test of logistics supply channelsto systems tests within the U.S. Euro­pean Command during operations inKosovo.

Y2K Readiness Essential"Last year I told the Department's

military and civilian leaders that Y2Kcompliance was a readiness issue thatwould determine whether we couldcarry out our most important mis­sions. The Department has made

great progress in the past year. All ofthis progress has been possiblethrough the incredibly hard work andoutstanding leadership of DODemployees throughout the Depart­ment. With 3 months to go before theturn of the year, we can rest assuredthe DOD will be well-positioned tohandle its national security responsi­bilities before, on, and after January 1,2000," Cohen said.

All levels of the DOD are preparingfor operations during the Y2K transi­tion period from September 1, 1999,through the leap year date, February29, 2000, to March 31, 2000. In par­ticular, the Air Force is conducting"Guam Watch," tracking the progressof computer results as the January 1,2000, date moves around the world.DOD officials are also working withthe President's Council on Y2K Con­version to share information with aFederal information coordinationcenter. This way the Federal govern­ment will have a complete under­standing of the impacts of Y2Kthroughout the United States andglobally.

The Department has procedures inplace to handle its duties in the eventan unforeseen circumstance doesoccur. Backup or contingency plansare being developed at all levels of theDepartment-from individual systemsto those supporting warfighting tasks.The Joint Chiefs of Staff is conduct­ing the Chairman's ContingencyAssessments: these assume failure ofkey warfighting systems so that alter­nate "workarounds" can be studiedand the viability of contingency plansassessed. Unified commanders areassessing the status of host nationsupport to U.S. stations overseas anddeveloping contingency plans to dealwith impacts on military operationsand service-member families.

October 1999

Y2K at NSA-What Employees Need to Know

NSA has made a significanteffort to ensure that its systemsare Y2K compliant. All NSA

systems will be Y2K compliant byDecember 31, 1999. Noncompliantsystems will be decommissioned.

Event PersonnelEach Key Component has identi­

fied employees designated as "Y2Kevent personnel." These individualshave been notified in writing of theirassignment and responsibilities dur­ing the Y2K event.

All Y2K event personnel are expect:­ed to be onsite or on call during theY2K event period to augment normal24-hour watch operations. The Y2Kevent period will begin December 31,1999 at 1200 Greenwich mean timeand will end when determined by theDirector or Deputy Director,NSNCSS.

Only personnel assigned to normal24-hour watch operations or designat­ed as Y2K event personnel will be per­mitted to report to duty during theY2K event. Other personnel are notauthorized to report to duty unlessspecifically called in. A liberal leavepolicy will be in effect the week ofJanuary 3 for non-Y2K event person­neL

The Department of Defense hasexempted all NSA employees who areworking on the Y2K problem fromthe biweekly limitation on overtime;comp time; and night, Sunday, andholiday pay. The biweekly pay capdoes not apply to Wage Gradeemployees.

Facilities Services is working closelywith BG&E to ensure that electricityis available to NSA buildings. There isa contingency plan to provide backup

October 1999

electrical power via generators toselected areas of the NSA campus.BG&E has accomplished all necessaryY2K compliance programs and willman the substations that are most crit:­ical to NSA. Manning these stationswill ensure rapid recovery during anelectrical outage.

The generators will be tested inNovember. During the test, the elec­trical demands of NSA's critical build­ings will be evaluated and an electricalload-shedding plan will be incorporat­ed. This will require occupants to turnoff all nonmission-essential equip­ment.

Holiday LeaveThe Agency will be as flexible as

possible for all employees during theNew Year's holiday. However, shouldthere be a demand for emergency per­sonnel during the millennium week­end, management has the authority torequire emergency personnel toreport for work regardless of theemployee's holiday plans.

Under emergency circumstancessuch as the Y2K transition, employeescan be directed to forego scheduledvacations or leave for the duration ofthe emergency.

If leave is canceled, the governmentis not obligated to reimburse individ­uals for money lost. It is important,then, that employees coordinate all oftheir leave plans up to and throughthe millennium weekend with theiroffice as soon as possible.

Health and Life InsuranceFederal employees, retirees, and

their families can be confident thattheir Federal health and life insuranceprograms, their retirement system,

and other Office of Personnel Man­agement (OPM) services are ready forthe year 2000. Being ready meansmaking sure that not one annuitycheck is missed or is late. If local sys­tems fail (those that OPM does nothave any control over) they will findan alternative way to deliver.

Medical Center and EASThere will be a medical response

team (physician, nurse, and medicaltechnician) at the Headquarters Med­ical Center during their normal busi­ness hours December 31, 1999. Forthe remainder of the weekend, therewill be a team on call at all times. Dur­ing the week of January 3, 2000 theMedical Center will be open duringits normal hours, 6:30 a.m.-4:00p.m., and there will be a team on callduring the evening and night hours.

The Employee Assistance Service(EAS) will have two mental healthprofessionals on call at all times fromDecember 31, 1999, through January2, 2000. As always, there will be onemental health professional on caU atall times the first full week of January.

Agency ServicesThe Rite Aid, barbershop, Civilian

Welfare Fund, and SHAPE Centerswill be open during their normalbusiness hours if the building inwhich they are located is open. Thecafeterias are dependent on adequatepower to be fully operational. It is pos­sible that service could be limited, butthere will be no way to know until Jan­uary 1, 2000. Contingency plans willbe in place to operate at levels that willnot use power that is needed for mis­sion purposes.

For additional information regard­ing Y2K issues, refer to the Y2KMillenium HomePage at http://miUennium.q.nsa/. -sda

NSA Newsletter 7

Y2K-What You Can Do To Be Prepared

N ews headlines and Internetpostings in recent months run

the gamut with so-calledexperts predicting that the Y2K bugwill cause problems ranging from a"minor inconvenience" to a "major

world catastrophe." The simple tnlthis-no one is exactly sure what willhappen. Conventional wisdom holdsthat there may be some disruption insenices, but tllere will not be a cata­strophic collapse of all electronic sys­tems, mass chaos or panic, and thatmanufacturing systems will be fixed ina short tirnc.

This much is known-State andlocal government agencies, utilities,hospitals, and other organizationsthat provide essential services havebeen hard at work to identify and cor­rect problems before they occur. Stateand local emergency managementofficials are also working to identifyresources and develop contingencyplans in case major problems occur.

_Thac is no reason to hoard food orsupplies, but families should pre­pare in the same way they would !ura significant winter storm. Keepinga 3- to 7-day store of supplies in sub­urban and urban areas and more forrural areas, is a guideline.

_Check with manufacturers of essen~

tial computer-<:ontrolled equipmentin your home including fire andsecurity alarm systems, rrogramma~

ble tIlermostats, appliances, homeelectronics, garage door openers,and any other electronic equipmentin \\lhich an "embedded electronicchip" may control its operation.

.Prepare a home emergency supplykit that could also be kept on handfor winter storms, hurrkanes, andother hazards. It should indude

8 NSA Newsletter

nonperishable foods and storedwater.

.If oil heat is used, plan to fill thetank bdure the end of the year.

_Have prescription medicines filled._Keep copics of important records in

a safe place in the home. Includecopies of wills, marriage licenses,mortgage records, canceled checks,bank and investment statements,insurance information, and creditcard statements.

.If medical dedces arc used in thehome (oxygen, blood sugar moni­tors, etc.), have the equipmentmecked or contact the manufactur­er to ensure Y2K compliance.

.In case of a power failure, plan to

use alternate cooking devices inaccordance with manufacturer'sinstructions. Don't use open tlamesor charcoal grills indoors.

.Have extra blankets, coats, hats, andgloves to kecp warm. Do not pl.n touse gas-fueled appliances, like anoven as an alternative source ofheat. The same is true for wood­burning or liqUid-fueled heatingdevices that are not designcd to beused in a residential structure.Camp stoves and heaters shouldonly be used outdoors in a well­ventilated area. If an alternativeheating device is purchased, makesure that it is approved for uscindoors and is listed with theUnderwriters Laboratories (UL).

.Have plenty of Oashlights and extrabatteries on hand. Do not use can~

dies fur emergency lighting..Examine all smoke alarms now. If

smoke alarms are hardwired intothe home's electrical system (mostnew alarms arc), check to sec if theyhave battery backups.

_If planning to use a portable genera­tOI, connect the item to be pmvercd

directly to tlle generator; do not

connect the generator to tile home\selectrical system. Also, be sure tokecp a generator in a well-ventilatedarea-either outside or in a garagewith the door open. Don't put agenerator in the basement or any~

where inside the home.

(Taken from the brochure "HowardCounty Year 2000-Y2Know, Y2CareAbout Y2K")

Flu Vaccines

The effects of influenza are feltthroughout the workplace-throughabsenteeism, productivity loss, over~

time, and increased health service use_The best method to protect againstinfluenza is to receive an annual fluimmunization. The Agency's immu·nizat'-\\n program will begin in lateOcto5.:r. The schedule will be sent toall employees via E-mail as soon as me'ilaedne arrives. The influenza vaccineis safe and effective_

1\.1ajor reasons not to receive theinfluenza immunization include:allergy to chicken eggs, previous seri·ous reaction to flu vaccine (very rare),active neurological disorder, allergy tothe preservative Thimerosal, or acuteinfection (delay immunization). Preg­nant women should receive theimmunization from their health careprovider. Nursing motllers should getwritten permission from thdr physi·ciano The flu vaccine is an inactivatedviral vaccine. Influenza vaccine canprevent symptoms of flu infection byapproximately 90 percent_ It takesabout 2 weeks after recei\ing the vac­cine to develop an immunity.

October 1999

To Offer Help...ls To Offer Hope!by Lisa M. Anderson, Program Manager

\

J

T he mission of the CombinedFederal Campaign (CFC) is tosupport and to promote philan­

thropy through a program that isemployee-focused, cost-efficient, andeffective in providing every Federalemployee the opportunity to improvethe quality of life for al!. Its traditionof community commitment throughthe selfless effort of Federal employeesis rooted in the charitable campaignsof the 1960's.

NSA has a strong commitment tothe CFC and the community ofCen­tral Maryland. Last year was the 12thconsecutive year that NSA con­tributed more than $1 million. Thistraditlon has become well known andwell respected throughout the region.In addition to gIving mere than 26percent of the CFC of Central Mary­land's total contributions, NSA alsoleads the way in our commllnity with3\0 Leadership Society members(those who contribute $1,000 ormore).

The 1999 CFC began in September.All Federal employees have the rightto contribute or not to contribute tothe CFC. Through your designation,you ensure that your donation goes tomeet those needs that you feel aremost important. Employees maychoose from any of the 2,400 agenciesthat have been approved for inclusionthis year by the Local Federal Coordi­nating Committee. There is some­thing for everyone-the-- -oCFCResource Guide is extremely compre­hensive and offers information aboutall of the participating agencies.

There are sevetalmeth~ con­tribute to the CFC. You can give-aone-time cash or check donation or

October 1999

use payroll deduction. Payroll deduc­tion lets you help all year and is key tosubstantial giving by allowing you tospread the cost of your contributionthrough the entire year.

Last year, the Agency collected sev­eral personal stories from employeesabout their experiences with CFCagencies. The following is one ofthose received.

Marilyn's StorySeventeen years ago, my contribu­

tion to the CFC was an impersonal,charitable payroll deduction to thoseorganizations with which I had only aperipheral relationship. That changeddramatically when my son was bornwith Down's syndrome. My formerspouse (also an Agency employee) andI were exposed to and received sup­port from a number of CFC­supported organizations, both on thelocal and nationalleve!.

On the local level. we becameinvolved with the Howard CountyAssociation for Retarded Citizens andits subordinate organizations, Parentsof Children wirh Down's Syndrome,eventually serving in leadership posi­tions in both organizations.

These organizations provided uswith parental support, respite servic­es, information, guidance and assis­tance in finding and receivingeducational, recreational, and medicalservices, and served as an advocate forboth our needs as parents and ourson's needs. Further, CFC-supportednational organizations such as theDown's Syndrome Congress and theNational Down's Syndrome Societyhave...provided us with yet anotheradvocate for our son.

As my son grew, he became involvedin sports and the Special Olympics,another CFCsupportecl organizationthat provides year-round sportstraining for those individuals withmental retardation and developmen­tal disabilities. These programs haveprovided fantastic means for my sonand others to strive to succeed in thesame ways their siblings and friendsdo, thereby increasing their self­esteem.

Within 3 years of my son's birth, Iturned again to a CFC-supportedorganization, the local chapter of theAmerican Heart Association, whenmy father suffered a heart attack whilevisiting us in Maryland. With just aphone call, the local chapter providedme with a wealth of information ondealing with a family member whohas had a heart attack, nutritionalinformation, exercise programs, andsupport group information in bothmy area and for the area in New Jerseywhere my father lives.

In recent years, I've receivedassistance from yet anotherCFC-supported organization, theAlzheimer's Association. This organi­zation has provided our family withinformation that has enabled us tounderstand my mother's illness andmake decisions regarding her future.

All of these organizations continueto be a great source of programs, infor­mation, and support for which I amvery gratefuL Most are provided at nocost or minimal cost to my family,thanks to funds provided to thoseorganizations through the CFC andthe United Way.

For additional information regard­ing the CFC, visit its Website athttp://www.fanx.s.nsa/cfc/ or cOn­tact the program manager, Lisa M.Anderson, at Imandel@nsa or 963­6801(s).

NSA Newsletter 9

ili:

'f,

.'

-'7'7

NSA Promotes Education Among Baltimore City's Youth

,j,

""

The PartnershipThe NSNPAL

partnership providesPAL youth with

some of the Nation'sbest mathematici~nfs~

scientists, and com.­puter experts who have agreed to vol­unteer at the PAL centers_ To date,more than 50 Agency employees havevolunteered to tutor, mentor, andteach PAL youth. These employeeswill teach math, science, computer lit­eracy, use of the Web, business admin­isttation, and arts and crafts.

For additional information regard­ing the MEPP program, call 963­5511(5) or 301-688-6436. The NSAPAL volunteer coordinator isMonique Mitchener, 968-7771(5).

-sda

repair, math, and science. MEPPmembers also provide communityand police volunteers with the skillsneeded to tutor math, science, andcomputer classes.

Police Athletic LeagueThe PAL provides many education­

al programs in its 27 youth centers,located throughout the city. Its pur­pose is to offer young people a balance

of knowledge, ideas,and strengths thatwill enable them tomake good life deci­sions. PAL also pro­vides a safe havenfor young people to

.i learn and have fun,while interactingwith dedicatedpolice officers.

._.students watched World War II cryp.tology videos and were shown how tobreak codes..•_

the NSA/PAL partnership. He alsocomplimented NSA volunteers say­ing, "these are some of the smartestcomputer science people in theworld."

The MEPPThe MEPP is an outteach program

that promotes mathematks and sci..ence education for students rangingfrom elementary- to graduate-schoollevel. Supported by many Agency vol­unteers, MEPP participants teach stu­dents computer skills, how to use theInternet, hardware and software

of becoming familiar with and under­standing how computers work. Our-

ing his speech, he thanked the NSAstaff for having the vision to establish

Ci"lI-"r~ .--~.~.:'" " ~

Mr. Earnest Green, Director, EEO; Mr. Jack Ingram, Museum Curator; Baltimore CityPolice Commissioner Thomas Frazierj Mr. George Cotter, NSA Chief Scientist;Col. Alvin Winkler, PAL Executive Director, and members of the Baltimore City PAL

Earlier this year, NSA's Mathemat­ics Education Partnership Program(MEPP) and Equal EmploymentOpportunity (EEO) offices formed apartnership with the Baltimore CityPolice Athletic League (PAL). In con­junction with this partnership, NSAinvited PAL students to tour theNational Cryptologic Museum duringthe summer months. These tourswere initiated to help students betterappreciate how math,science, and technolo­gy impact cryptologyand conttibute to theprotection of Ameri­can communications.

On July 6, theAgency welcomed thefirst PAL group to visitthe Museum. Approxi­mately 200 stu_dentsformed the largestgroup to ever visit themuseum at one time.During their 3-hourtour, the studentswatched World War IIcryptology videos andwere shown how tobreak codes by Agency mathemati­cians.

Other guests visiting the museumthat day included Baltimore CityPolice Commissioner Thomas Frazier;Col. AlVin Winkler, PAL ExecutiveDirector; and officers from the Balti­more City Police Department.Mr. George Cotter, NSA Chief Scien­tist, welcomed the visitors andMr. Jack Ingram, the museum'scurator, gave an indepth tour of themuseum exhibits. Following the tour,Commissioner Frazier briefly spoke tothe children regarding the importance

10 NSA Newsletter October 1999

1

I

iI

Action LineHave a question or thought to express? Use Action Line!Opinions expressed in letters do not necessarily repre~

sent official viewpoints or the views of the NewsletterStaff.

CENSORED

Dear Action Line,As an Information Systems Security Organization (OD

employee, I am a bit curious why Agency-allSmails s<:cem to be filteJed and "judiciously" dispensed tothose in OJ via ISSO lnfoLine. Several times> J have beeninformed by my wife, who is a Technology and SystemsOrganization (OT) employee, ofAgency-all E-mails that Ihave never seen. Is there some reason for these Smails notbeing forwarded without intervention and filtering?

-In the Dark

Dear In the Dark,Thank you for your question about the ISSO InfoLine. This

initiative began approximately 4 years ago when it became clearthat the large volume of '\nass" Emailings was having adetrimental effect on the ISSO's mail servers and delaying time·sensitive, operational E-mails.

Many people were complaining about the large number ofadministrative announcements and "junk" messages addressedto "ISSOaIl" or ''Agency·all'' being received that filled employeesE-mail inboxeseveryday.This was forcing busy people to wastetime sifting through low priority items to find work·related, time­sensitive messages. In response to this problem, a way was soughtto organize the information in a manageable format that put thecontrol back in the individual's hands.

The ISSO InfoLine organizes messages to the work force in aselectable list. This list appears every morning on all ISSO work·stations. The first message in the list open.> automatically and isusually a message with a topic of interest to most of the ISSOwork force. 'The Deputy Director for Information Systems Secu·rity Organization (DDI) often uses this feature to communicatetopics o!importance. The other messages are either Agency-alland ISSO-all messages thathave "trapped out" for retransmis­sion on InfoLine ormessages submitted directly to InfoLine. TheISSO InfoLine is rerun around noon whenever a message of uifdeinterest has been added or submitted that morning. The onlyother criteria for submission of a message to the ISSO InfoLineis that the topic be work related and of interest to at least two

October 1999

groups within the ISSO. No other "cen.>orship" takes place. Itshould be noted thocany AgeTlCY-all or ISSO-all messages of anemergency nature are forwarded via Email upon receipt andposted on the ISSO InfoLine. A problem exists when Agency-allmessages go out during the work day-Agency mail servers.some·times get backed up, creating significant Ume delays before theISSO even receives the origiMI message. This is generally whypeople in another Key Component may get an ISSO =agebefore someone in the ISSO.

One exception to the normal InfoLine process invol.ves mes­sages from the senior operaUons officer (SOO) and the opera­Uons support officer (OSO)_ Those messages go directly viaE-mail to the ISSO's work force since they are generally Ume·sensiUve and they maybe sent out after normal duty hours whenno one is available to retransmit them on InfoLine

In summary, the ISSO InfoLine is not an attempt to cen.sor

E-mail (except E-mail that is clearly of an unofficial and iMp'propriate Mture for government resources). It is a tool thatimproves the operation of Agency networks. It also helps toorganize the information the work force receives to allow them touse their valuable time more efficiently. The majority offeedbackregarding InfoLine has I)een favorable.

-Michael R. Ware, Dr CIO

PUT ON THE BRAKES

Dear Action Line,J would like to express a major concern about excessive

speed and disregard for .posted traffic-control signs atNSA. In my travels this morning, I observed a BMWtraveling parallel to me while traversing the parking lot infront of Gatehouse 2. I noticed it because its speed, near­ly 25-30 mph, was well over the nominal level for safety.As the car approached the end of the parking loc and theSTOP markings before the Jersey barriers, the driver pro­ceeded to tum as if the STOP markings were not eventhere! Then, as he reached the STOP sign, thac was alsodisregarded. I was aghast! I wondered if there was a validreason to be in thac much of a hurry. When J observedthis individual park in a numbered space and then non­chalantly scroll into the HQS Bldg. without a care in theworld, J felt it was appropriate to write to '~tion Line."

It is unconscionable that anyone would act with suchtotal disregard for safety! This leerer will hopefully bring awake-up call to anyone who feels they can disregard thespeed limits and traffic signs within the compound, sim­ply because they believe they are "above it all."

-Totally Aghast

NSA Newsletter 11

I[

.>..-=.= :~§£. - '....

Celtic Forum meets the last Tuesdayof every month. Anyone interested inthe culture, art, languages, or heritageof the Celtic lands (Brittany, Corn­wall, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales) orpeoples is welcome to attend. For fur­ther information, contact KarenDavis (kmdavis@nsa), 301-688-7884.

Ceramics Crafters will hold its annu­al Halloween sale October 19, 11:00a.m.-I:OO p.m. inside the OPS 2Aentrance, next to the stairway. Foradditional club information, write tothe Ceramics Crafters Club, c/o theCWF Club Mail Facility.

Comic Book/Science-Fiction Memo­rabilia Collectors Club meets the firstFriday of every month. The club pro­vides a forum for people interested incomic books, science fiction, games,and other fandom. A second meetingfor family members is held on thethird Saturday of each month at theProvinces Library. For further infor­mation, contacrAnn.White(abwhitl@nsa).

Gay, Lesbian, or Bisexual Employees(GLOBE), Alan Turing Chapter, willhold its October general meeting inthe conference room in Building9914, the Colony Seven complex. Tocheck for GLOBE meeting dates andtimes, subscribe to ESS 116, read theClub News on ENLIGHTEN, or sendan E-mail to GLOBE@nsa.

Hispanic Forum meets monthly andoffers a wide array of activitiesthroughout the year. For more infor­mation subscribe to ESS 1252 or con­tact lvette Collazo (imcolla@nsa).

12 NSA Newsletter

Parkway Coin and Stamp Club willhold its monthly stamp meetingThursday, October 14 at noon. Themonthly coin meeting will be Thurs­day, October 28 at noon. Meetinglocations will be displayed in theshowcase opposite the OPS I Cafete­ria entrance during the respectiveweek of each meeting. For stamp clubinformation, contact Grover Hinds at301-688-4598. For coin club informa­tion, contact Mitch Ross at 301-688­8428.

Single People in Activities Recre­ational and Cultural (SPARC) eventsfor October include dining out; Sun­day brunch at Clarks Bayside Inn; theMaryland Renaissance Festival; a"bike and hike" outing to Great Falls;a singles Halloween dance; a Hal­loween potluck dinner party; a week­end ttip to Ohiopyle, PA; a monthlyactivities planning meeting; and week:­ly happy hours and trivia at Hurri­canes. For more information,subscribe to ESS 1444 or contact SallyBiggerstaff at '972-2270(s) or 301-688­0146.

Socially Oriented Bikers MotorcycleClub will meet Wednesday, October 6and November 3 at 5:00 p.m. atPerry's in Odenton. Meetings arescheduled for the first Wednesday ofeach month. Upcoming rides includeHarpers Ferry scheduled for October9. Also, lunch rides are held the thirdWednesday of each month at11 :30 a.m. For further informationcontact the club treasurer, Ron at 301­688-1051 or members, Kent at 301­688-0905 and Brenda at301-688-4292.

October 21 College Financial Plan­ning Seminar

Need help with college tuition?Stop by the R&E Auditorium,11:30 a.m.-Z,OO p.m., to learn aboutfinancial planning. A speaker fromthe Maryland Prepaid College Trust, afinancial aid specialist, and a certifiedfinancial planner are scheduled topresent information regarding theprocess.

For details or to register, contacttheGEBA office at 301-688-7912 or viaSmail at geba@gega.com.

October 27-29 Crypto[ogic HistorySymposium

The .1999 Symposium on Crypto­logic History, sponsored by the Cen­ter for Cryptologic History, will beheld in the Friedman Auditorium.

All sessions will be unclassified. TheWednesday and Thursday sessionswill run from approximately8:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m. The Friday ses­sion will run from 8:30 a.m.-noon.

This year's symposium will take aretrospective look at a century of sig­nals intelligence and information sys­tems security. It will also provide freshinsights into the uses of cryptology inWorld War [[ and in counterespi­onage activities, such as VENONAand ISCOT. Other presentations willinclude selected topics in cryptologyand the Cold War, and a panel dis­cussion on the current declassifica­tion process.

For information regarding the sym­posium's topics and speakers, contactthe Center for Cryptologic History at972-2893(s) or 301-688-2336.

October 1999

Awards

James C. Newton

Lost and Found

It is time for the NSA CustomerService Centers (CSCs) to dispose offound property that has been heldfor more than 90 days. The CSCsare holding a variety of items includ­ing money, jewelry, and clothing. Ifemployees have lost anything sinceJune 1, stop by an NSA CSc.

Found something? A CSC repre­sentative will be glad to take it andtry to match it with it:; rightfulowner. NSA CSC locations and tele­phone numbers are: FANX III,room BlAB, 968-7444(5), 410-854­7444; OPS 1, Room 1W082, 963­6922(5), 301-688-5943; and R&E,Room R1C074, 961-7444(5), 301­688-2444.

\I.~

Cornelius J. Doherty

David W. l.a~Tence

October 1999

Paul C. Greenwald

Sandra Stanar-Johnson

39 YearsKenneth A. Williams

37 YearsLaurence P. Coghlan III

35 YearsHelen J. Collins

NSA Newsletter 13

JR•• ._~

Paul Derthick's Headline Puzzle _._ by Larry Gray

The following are headlines from recent daily newspapers. Each of the five is adifferent letter·for·letter substitution. All five are derived from the same mixedalphabet at different settings against itself.

1. FNEIGAMWP UQRCD WI GSIPN DMQ RC ANQTJSRGMCGICWAISSNFPNCMWN

2. ODZLOP ZBLHT LllHBFPO ZMDZLKA BW BMEOELQIJQU OEBKA3. ARLD·ZPLDGI QWGSHSAGA CMAUG LHUP ISZJ.GUWI MCAl YLP PLQXA4. UMBNSCRUIO ORGWIA IONA URNBNA MW SNDD EMPIC WNCCRP

GSMPPRG5. OQHHVlM AEYMYRZDAVMN EOVLLJAC DZ RIHHYXA G]VNBK YO EILVKIJ

Answer«!in appear next month..

Answer to September Puzzk:1. EUROPEAN AEROSPACE GIANTS CLOSE TO MERGER AGREEMENT2. DICE ARE READY TO ROLL SOON IN MOTOR CITY CASINO3. ASTROS PLAY ON DESP1TtTRYING, INJURY·PLAGUED SEASON4. MOLECULAR CIRCUITS HOLD PROMISE FOR ULTRAFAST COMPUTERS5. SURVEYS SHOW CONSUMERS, PHYSICIANS IMPATIENTWlTH HMOS

Setting: sHEET Key: PAINTER Hat: LANYARD

Hidden below are 19 words associated with college academics. The words readin any direction and any letter may be used more than once.

c 0 :M l' U T E R S C I E N C E

0 U L o (T N £ M N R E V 0 G V

M M A T H Ii: M A T I c s1 M p K

Z M J u 'F:C':KM Y Y!- T I S A M A S

U G Q N F Z V R J I L C Q S X

N 0 W(G N 1 R E E N I G N E 'SI L J z y E X A U 0 C R Z N E

C 0 K L R HTH s I L G N

El~I

A H Y G Ie L 0 T N 0 R E G S T

T C Q R 1'T U Z U G G C Z y U I

I Y P M S R S D Y Y V U B B N

0 S U A liTe N I T N U 0 C C A

N P I r HilT N E M E G A N A M

S E C 1 V R J< I~ H T L A E HI uE C 0 N 0 M I c s1 Q i N 0 W()

14 NSA Newsletter

In MemoriamRaymond F. Alsop, a former equip·ment specialist in the Support Ser­vices Organization, died August 3 of astroke. He was 66.

Prior to joining the Agency,Mr. Alsop served with the U.S. !'lImy.He attended the University of Col­orado and graduated from the Wash­ington School of Engineering andDesign. Mr. Alsop retired in 1980with 26 years of Federal service.

Mr. Alsop rcsi.ded in Newtown, VA.He was a member ofJerusalem BaptistChurch and active in local govern.­ment.

His wife, Myrde; and three daugh­ters, Pamela Green, Angela Thomp.son, and Sherrin Alsop surviveMr. Alsop.

J. Wesley Bevan, a fonner signal con­version technician in the OperationsOrganization, died August 18 of can­cer. He was 93.

Prior to joining rhe Agency,Mr. Bevan served with the NavyDepartment. He graduated fromCheyney University of Pennsylvania.Mr. Bevan retired in 1975 with 37yeafs"l,[ Federal service.

A - native of Providence, RI,Mr. Bevan was a longtime resident ofWashington, DC.

Mr. Bevan is survived by his wife,Edith; toNO daughters, Goldie Pennand Pamela Bernard; 3 granddaugh­ters; rwo great-grandsons; and rwogrear-great-grandchildren.

Ernest H. Biggerstaff, a former elec­tronic engineer in the Technology andSystems Organization, died August11. He was 70.

A resident of Annapolis, MD,Mr. Biggerstaff remed in 1980 with28 years of Federal service. His inter·ests included flying.

October 1999

"l

\

i-~

His wife, Mary; and two sons, Markand Glenn survive Mr. Biggerstaff.

Rohert L. Buille, a former intelli­gence analyst in the Operations Orga­nization, died July 27. He was 59.

Prior to Joining the Agency,Mr. Bullie served with the U.S. AirForce. He graduated from the Univer­sity of Maryland and the U.S. NavalWar College. Mr. Bullie retired in1997 with 39 years of Federal service.

A native of Jackson, MS, Mr. Bullieresided in Rockville, MD. He enjoyedfishing, brewing, and music.

His wife, Alice; a son, Robert; and agrandson, Denar, surv[ve Mr. Bullie.

Joseph A. Cunningham, a formeranalyst and manager in the Opera­tions Organization, died April 13 fol.­lowing a lengthy illness. He was 71.

Mr. Cunningham sen'ed with theU.S. Army prior to joining theAgency. He earned a bachelor'sdegree from Boston College and adegree in law from Georgetown Uni­versity Law SchooL Mr. Cunninghamretired in 1983 with 31 years of Feder­al service.

A native of Waltham, MA,Mr. Cunningham resided in Crofton,MD. He enjoyed reading and traveL

Mr. Cunningham is survived by hiswife, Betty.

Ann B. Romberger, a former analystin the Operations Organizafion, diedAugust 13 of kidney failure. She was73-

A native of New Jersey,Ms. Romberger resided in GlenBurnie, MD. She retired in 1985 with30 years of Federal service.Ms. Romberger enjoyed reading,shopping, and listening to music.

Two daughters, Sandra Malar andNancy Redelius; three grandchildren;

October 1999

and two great-grandchildren surviveMs. Romberger.

John J. Sullivan, a former financialadvisor in the Plans, Policy, and Pro­grams Organization, died August 15.He was 7l.

Prior to joining the Agency,Mr. Sullivan served with the U.S.Army. He retired in 1985 with 39years ofFederal service.

A native of New York City, NY,Mr. Sullivan resided in Glen Burnie,MD. Among his interests were wood­working, gourmet cooking, and vol.­unteering at North Arundel HospitaL

Mr. Sullivan is surv[ved by his wife,Elizabeth; a son Barry; a daughter,Joan; and two grandchildren.

Dennis R. Tumer, a collection offi­cer in the Operations

- Organization, diedJuly 14 of cancer.He was 52.

Prior to joiningthe Agency in

.'41971, Mr. Turner, _ : , served with the U.S.',-" _.r:: .Marine Corp.

A native of PortAllegheny, PA, Mr. Tumer resided i,nMarriotsville, MD. His wife, Dorothy;and two sons, Gregory and David sur­vive Mr. Turner.

In AppreciationOn behalf of our entire family, my

brother Jack and 1would like to thankour friends and coworkers for theirkindness and thoughtfulness follow­ing the death of our parents. Thecards, flowers, plants, prayers, andother generous gifts were greatlyappreciated and comforted us duringthis difficult time. Thank you all foryour support.

-Jamie Russell

My family and I would like to offerour -sincerestgrafitude for the over­whelming support we received follow­ing the sudden deaths of my fatherand mother. The shock oflosing bothparents was traumatic; however, ourcoworkers at NSNCSS Pacific tookcharge and got us off the island in atimely manner. The prayers, flowers,calls, memorials, personal notes, andhugs have certainly been appreciatedand will always be remembered.

-Beverly Heyberger

I would like to express sincereappreciation 'to my NSA co][ea"ouesand friends for their expressions ofsympathy and support following thedeath of my fatller. Your thoughtful­ness during this difficult time was agreat comfort to my family and me.

-Debora Plunkett

We would like to thank our friendsand coworkers for their thoughts andprayers during our son Zachary's ill­ness and at the time of his death. Thesupport, friendship, and kindness willalways be remembered.

-Joe and Kim Hebda

My sincere appreciation and thanksto my coworkers and friends for theirprayers and support during my recentillness. Your cards, personal notes,and calls were the bright spots in mydays of recuperation. Your thoughtful­ness meant a great deal to me,

-Arlene Plitt

NSA Newsletter 15

Leave Bank Enrollment

A voluntary Leave Bank Open Sea­son will be held November 8 throughDecember 3. Employees who are notLeave Bank members are invited tojoin; however, current members donot need to reapply. As a Leave Bankmember, individuals are eligible tobecome leave recipients should a med­ical emergency or condition affectthem or a family member, and theymeet the applicant requirements. Bycontributing 4, 6, Or 8 hours of annu­alleave (based on years of service), anemployee will become a Leave Bankmember for the 2000 leave year.Annual leave for Leave Bank dues willbe deducted from annual leave accru-

Healthy and Drug Free

Join the Red Ribbon Week Cam­paign, Octuber 23-31. Wear a red rib­bon to show opposition to illegal drugand alcohol use and illegal tobaccouse by minors, and support this year'stheme, "Be Healthy and Drug Free."

Red Ribbon Week was created inresponse to the 1985 assassination ofan onduly DEA agent, Enrique (KikilCamarena, by drug dealers in Mexico.Members of the National Family Part­nership wore small, red satin badgesin Camarena's memory and encour~

aged others to take a stand againstdrugs. This symbolic gesture quicklyspread from community to communi~

ty, making Camarena's murder a cata­lyst that called people to action-tomake a visible commitme.nt by wear­ing and displaying red ribbons toshow national intolerance for illegaldrug use.

NSA's nationally recognized RedRibbon Week activities are conducted

16 NSA Newsletter

als during the first full pay period ofthe new leave year.

For faster service, membership maybe requested via E-mail atrvbrist®nsa. Include full name, dutyorganization, social security number,and a request for membership for2000. If preferred, the membershipform, P2719, may be electronicallyaccessed, completed, and E-mailed; ora hard copy may be faxed to 443479­3325, the Leave Sharing ProgramOffice. To be accepted, membershiprequests must be received by the closeof business, December 3, 1999.

For additional information, refer tothe Leave Bank Webpage athttp://www.s.nsa/OHESS/s212/leave-bank.html Or contact the Leave.Sharing Program managers at 963­6086(s) or 301-688-8808.

by Occupational Health, Environ­ment, and Safety Services (OHESS),under the Pharmacy Services and theDrug Program Coordinator. To learnmore about drugs, drug abuse andprevention, health effects, and avail­able community treatment servicesvisit the nearest local Mobile HealthClin.ic (MHC), refer to the medicalinformation racks outside the OPS IOHESS Clinic, visit the OccupationalHealth on Wheels (OHOW) van, ortalk to the pharmacist in the 0 HESSPharmacy.

Red ribbons are available throughthe OHESS Pharmacy, the MHC, andOHOW. Wear a red ribbon-take theopportunity to show support for adrug-free workplace and society. Foradditional information, contactDr. Marsha Alvarez, Chief Pharmacistand Drug Program. Coordinator,OHESS, at 301-688-6128.

THE NATIONAL SECURITYAGENCY NEWSLETTER

October 1999 • VoL XLVIll No. 10

NSNCSS INTERNALCOMMUNICATIONS CELL

nsanews@nsa

The NSA Newsletter is publishedmonthly by the NSNCSS InternalCommunications Cell for the informa­tion and enjoyment of NSA employ-eesand their families.

Items submitted for publicationshould be sent via E-m~ail tonsanews@nsa or typed double-spaced,marked with th~ name, organization,and phone number of the sender, andforwarded to: NSA Newsletter, FortGeorge G. Meade, MD 20755·6000.Feature articles are due 2 we:e:ks beforethe first day of the month preceding themonth the article is intended to be pub­lished. All other items are due on or_before the first day of the month pre­ceding the month in which the item isintended to be published. For example,feature articles for the DecemberNewsletter must be submitted~.on ocbefore the 18th day of October. Allother items must be submitted on orbefore the Ist day of November. All sub­missions to th~ Ne1J.!slerter are subject t..Jediting for space, clarity, and classifica­cion; there are no exceptions to this pol­icy. Newsletter office phones are963·1848(s) and 301-688·6610 (TDD):E-mail address is nsanews@ma; andlocation is OPS 1, South Caft;:t~ria,

Room 2.This publication does not necessarily

reflect the official views of the Depart~

ment of Defense.The Ne«Isletter is printed by the Publi­

cation and Reproduction Divisioll.­Printing of this publication wasapproved by the Director, NSA,March 1, 1972.

October 1999