Skywrighter graphic.
VOL. 2, NO. 1 | FRIDAY, January 6, 2023

Eleven Army Soldiers and 125 Air Force Civilians transferred to the U.S. Space Force Dec. 16, 2022, in a ceremony at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. (U.S. Air Force photos by R.J. Oriez)

Powerlifting Competition

Wright-Patterson Air Force Base hosts 10th powerlifting competition Dec. 10, 2022, at Wright Field Fitness Center on Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Mikaley Kline)

Community and Base Events

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All content must be submitted via email Fridays by 4 p.m. for the following Friday digital edition.
Email: 88ABW.skywrighter@us.af.mil
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88 ABW Public Affairs Editorial Staff 

Col. Christopher Meeker 88 ABW Commander
Bob Purtiman Chief, WPAFB Installation Public Affairs
Chris Warner Command Information Chief
Vince Little Skywrighter Liaison
Megan Mudersbach Website Manager

88 ABW Commander's Direct Line 

If you have questions or concerns that you would like to bring to the 88 ABW commander's attention, email Directline@us.af.mil 

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Dental Clinic: WPMC is looking for TRICARE pediatric patients ages 5 to 12 for dental screenings and adult beneficiaries for endodontic screenings (root canal treatment). Contact the clinic at 937-257-8761 for more information and eligibility.

COVID-19 Testing: Testing for the COVID-19 virus can be found at the Outpatient Clinic Entrance/MRI Entrance of the Medical Center. The test currently being used is the rapid fire test which is a combination test for COVID, Flu and RSV. Testing is still administered as a drive-thru service. Upon arrival, call 937-257-0511, and one of the team members will come to your car. Appointments are required for COVID-19 testing. They can be made by calling 937-257-SHOT or by using the TRICARE Online (TOL) portal. In addition, at-home COVID-19 tests are available for TRCIARE beneficiaries at no cost. In order to pick up an at-home test kit you must make an appointment through TOL. Pick-up of the tests is also located at the outpatient entrance. Hours are 8 a.m. to noon on normal duty days.

COVID-19 Vaccines: Effective January 1, 2023, the 6 months to 4 year and 5 to 11 year old COVID-19 vaccines will be given in the Allergy and Immunizations Clinic on Thursday afternoons. Additionally, we are offering the 5 to 11 year old Pfizer COVID bivalent booster vaccine to those who finished the primary series at least two months ago or if it has been at least two months since the most recent booster. COVID-19 vaccines and boosters for patients age 12+ are given on Mondays and Fridays. All options can be scheduled online at https://informatics-stage.health.mil/DAP/ or by calling 937-257-SHOT.  

Follow on social media to stay up-to-date on activities and events: Facebook: @88fss | Instagram @WrightPattFSS | E-Newsletter: text WPAFBFUN to 22828 | www.wrightpattfss.com

Wright-Times Magazine

The Wright-Times magazine is back in 2023! You’ll find lots of great information about FSS facilities, classes, trips and amazing upcoming events! Get your copy at any FSS location or online at www.WrightPattFSS.com today!

Soul Food Buffet

Wed., Jan. 4 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. – Wright-Patt Club – The Wright-Patt Club will be offering a different lunch buffet every Wednesday. This week will be Soul Food. Jan. 11 – Italian, Jan. 18 – Stir Fry, Jan. 25 – Americana buffet. Cost is $15.95 for members and $18.95 for non-members. Call 937-522-2160 for more info.

Wing’s Bar & Grille

Wednesdays – 4 to 8 p.m. – Members Only – If you’re a Club member, stop by and enjoy some free appetizers while trying out the 32-tap wall. Doors open at 3 pm. Not a member? Visit https://myairforcelife.com/club-membership and click on the JOIN NOW icon.

Thursdays – 4 to 8 p.m. – Taps, Toppings & Trivia – Build your own 10” pizza for only $10! Pair it with a beer from the 32-tap wall and enjoy a game of trivia. Connect with colleagues outside the office for a change and have some fun! Doors open at 3 pm.

Fridays – 4 to 8 p.m. – Start the weekend off Wright! Join us at Wing’s on Friday nights for even more fun and food specials! Doors open at 3 pm.

Dive-In Movie Night

Thurs., Jan. 12 from 6 to 9 p.m. – Dodge Fitness Indoor Pool – Leave the cold outside! Enjoy Sonic the Hedgehog 2 on the big screen while floating in the pool! Free entry and refreshments. All children must be 6 years or older to attend. Space is limited. For more info, call 937-257-4225.

Super Bowling

Sun., Feb. 12 – 5:30 p.m. - What could be more fun than football AND bowling?!! Join Kittyhawk Lanes as they host their Super Bowling event! The big game will be on all the screens plus bowling, shoe rental, buffet, fountain drinks and door prizes all for $125 per lane. Get five friends or family members to join you and it’s less than $21 per person! Reserve your spot today by calling 937-257-7796.

Big Game Party

Sun., Feb. 12 – Wright Patt Club – Join the Wright-Patt Club for the Big Game plus prizes and great food! Members receive free entry, non-members only $5. There will be a buffet available featuring wings, nachos, dips and more! $15 for members and $25 for non-members. Doors open at 2 pm. No reservations required. Call 937-522-2160 for more info.

Air Force Gaming

Kings/Queens of Call of Duty MW2: 4v4 Search & Destroy Online Tournament – Sat., Jan. 7 – Registration ends Jan. 6! https://airforcegaming.com/competition/633/info/details  This competition is open to all bases, USAF/USSF personnel, veterans, and adult dependents. For any questions regarding Air Force Gaming at Wright-Patt contact Wesley.Prophett.2@us.af.mil or Discord: #Prophett1291

Silent Disco

Thurs., Feb. 23 from 5 to 8 p.m. – Wright-Patt Club – Grab a pair of headphones and tune into your choice of three different DJ channels for this unique dance party experience! Headphones and glow accessories provided. Free to anyone with base access.

Information, Tickets & Travel

Columbus Blue Jacket Tickets available! - $40 per ticket. Call 937-257-7670 today!

Arts & Crafts

Have a Scout competing in a Pinewood Derby? – The Consolidated Hobby Complex has everything you need to shape, sand and paint your derby car! Available every Thursday and Friday in January. Call early to reserve your date! 937-257-7025.

Fitness

Back To Basics – Jan. 9 to March 31 - This program is specifically designed to help Airman improve PT scores. Wright Field Fitness Center 6 to 7 a.m. and Jarvis Fitness Center 4 to 5 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. To register at Jarvis Fitness Center email: Philip.Donald@us.af.mil To register at Wright Field Fitness Center email: Jamie.Depinet@us.af.mil

Youth Sports

Volleyball Registration – Jan. 23 to March 17 – Sign your child up for the youth volleyball team starting Jan. 23. Open to ages 7-18. Cost is $55. Practice starts the week of March 27 and the season runs from April 8 to June 3. Register at the Youth & Child Development Complex, 156 Spinning Rd., Riverside, OH 45431. Email craig.wilson.6@us.af.mil for more info.

Intramural Volleyball League

Register now thru Jan. 27 – Love playing volleyball? Now is your chance to get involved in the Wright-Patt Intramural Volleyball League! Teams must have a minimum of six players and be of the same unit/squadron. All skill levels welcome. Open to military, DoD civilians and adult dependents over 18. For more info, call Quinn Cooper at 937-656-5961 or email Dequinn.cooper.2@us.af.mil. Mandatory captain’s meeting will be held Jan. 9.

MLK Event - Jan. 12, 9 a.m. at USO: The 88 ABW Special Observance Committee will host a special event to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Jan. 12 at 9 a.m. at the USO. The event is open to base personnel. Rev. Dr. David Fox will speak on his background in the NAACP and the Civil Rights Movement.

Chief Master Sgt. Recognition Ceremony – Friday, March 3 from 6 to 10 p.m. at the NMUSAF: Save the date! More info to follow.

Unofficial Photo Event - The next unofficial photo events will be:

·       Friday, Jan. 27 from 9 to 11 a.m.

·       Friday, Feb. 24 from 9 to 11 a.m.

Location is on Area B at AFIT’s Kenney Hall. Availability will be on a first come, first served basis. Appointments will not be offered.

Combined Federal Campaign

How To Give:

-          Text. Text “DONATE” to 978-487-5678 *Use WPAFB zip code 45433

-          Online. Visit GiveCFC.org and click DONATE.

-          CFC Giving Mobile App. The CFC Giving Mobile App is available for iPhone and Android devices by searching “CFC Giving” in the app store.

-          Paper Pledge Form. Download the paper form from GiveCFC.org and fill it out using the instructions on the second page. Submit it to your Keyworker.

Civilian Health Promotion Services – Jan. 3 to 10: CHPS is offering FREE Cardiac Risk Profile screenings (Glucose/Cholesterol) to DoD Civilians only, body composition screenings (Bodpod/Inbody) and blood pressure screenings to DoD Civilians and Active Duty personnel. Schedule with us for an appointment in our office or visit us during walk-in hours Mondays and Fridays!

 

Our virtual briefings this week include "Fad Diets" on Wednesday, January 4 from noon to 1 p.m., “Exercise Basics: Starting a Program That Works for You” on Thursday, January 5 from 11:30 a.m. 12:30 p.m., “CHPS Orientation” on Monday, January 9 from 11 a.m. to noon, and "Overcoming Gym Intimidation" on Tuesday, January 10 from 11:30 a.m. 12:30 p.m., all via ZoomGov.

 

https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1612413852?pwd=UFFvNzhPWE40QXppNHpOL1hKTnhDZz09

Meeting ID: 161 241 3852

Passcode: CHPS

 

Please contact CHPS at 937-904-9359 or CHPSsupport@us.af.mil  for more details and information.

 

Official Passport Photos - Please be advised, the official passport photo studio as moved from Area B, Building 50 to Area A, Building 1, RM 800 (88ABW/PA Photo Studio).

 

Wright-Patt Chess Club: Please come join the Wright-Patt Chess Club for our weekly meeting. The meeting will be held at the Wright-Patterson Club in the room adjacent to the bar area this Friday, Jan. 6, 6 to 9 p.m. Please bring your own chess set/clock.

The Wright-Patt Hockey Club drop-in hockey sessions every Friday from 6:30 to 7:30 a.m. at the Kettering Ice Arena (2900 Glengarry Road, Kettering, OH). It is a non-checking, adult drop-in (no score-keeping or referees) and all skill levels are welcome. Cost is $20 per session and USA Hockey membership is required. Contact Scott Sherer (scott.sherer@us.af.mil) for more information.

Ultimate Frisbee every Friday afternoon: There is a friendly game of Ultimate Frisbee played every Friday at 4 p.m. in Area A. If you wish to be placed on the distribution list, please contact Chad Kimmel at chad.kimmel.1@us.af.mil. All skill levels are welcome and we would love to have you join us!

 

 

Greater Dayton Chapter of Blacks in Government Monthly Meeting - 2nd Thursday of the month, from 6 to 7 p.m. The GDC BIG meeting is an opportunity to interact and advocate, community involvement, equal opportunity and professional development for black government employees. Virtual meeting link: Join GDC BIG Meeting on MS Teams or Dial In: 410-874-6740 /Conference ID: 430 341 139#.  This meeting is open to all military, civilians and contractors working in local, state and federal government. If you have questions, please contact GDC BIG President Damon Smith at mrdzs@att.net.

WPAFB GeoBase is looking for feedback on the GeoBase viewer. It would be greatly appreciated if you have a few moments to fill out the GeoBase Viewer Pulse Survey. This survey is made up of 12 questions with the goal of compiling the results to better support not only 88th CEGs geospatial requirements but greater WPAFB as well. The survey URL is below and is open until Jan. 13 at 6 p.m. Thank you very much for the feedback which will enable GeoBase to better support our missions! LINK: https://forms.osi.apps.mil/r/e1cSPSPPF2

If there are any questions, please reach out to Mr. Daniel Sandrowicz (daniel.sandrowicz.1@us.af.mil) or 937-713-1791.

Base Thrift Shop - We are open! Stop in to donate unwanted items or consign them and earn a little extra money. Everyone with base access can shop at the Thrift Store. Check us out on Facebook at: WPOSC THRIFT SHOP to see our weekly photo updates Located in Bldg. 95, Wright Ave, WPAFB (next to Outdoor Rec.), about 1 mile from the Commissary. Hours of operation are: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Consignments are by appointment only from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Call (937) 879-5630 during business hours to book an appointment or receive more information. All proceeds from the Base Thrift Shop are used to benefit our WPAFB and the surrounding communities.

Wright Way Toastmasters Virtual Meetings – Are you freaking out about public speaking? Toastmasters can help you improve your speaking skills, develop and present ideas more effectively, deliver better presentations, and gain self-confidence. Toastmasters program targets speaking, listening, thinking on your feet, giving, and receiving feedback, planning, motivation, and team building in a supportive environment. Join new and experienced speakers on January 10 and 24 for meetings on the Zoom platform. Email Keithallen2211@gmail.com for any questions and the meeting ID number. The meeting time is noon to 12:50 p.m.

From Kimberly A. Watson, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility chief: I want to share a quote by Brene Brown, American scholar, author, and public speaker: "Vulnerability is the birthplace of innovation, creativity and change."  We talk a lot about having psychological safety in our work units. One step in creating such a culture is being able to be vulnerable-that is admitting we do not know everything.  When we share and learn to trust, we will foster a culture where everyone is treated with respect.  I encourage you to take a few moments to watch this short video entitled "Overcoming Challenges to Psychological Safety"

You can also visit the AF eLearning (skillport): https://usafprod.skillport.com/skillportfe/main.action#whatshappening site to learn more about diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility topics.

Education & Training is offering the following courses.  All classes are offered at no cost and are available to military and civilian employees.  Class registration through https://myetms.wpafb.af.mil/.  For more information call (937) 904-4801 or contact 88mss.dpet.training@us.af.mil.

NOTE:  Schedules could be subject to change due to low enrollments or delays.

For other scheduled courses:

Course Catalog Schedule

WPAFB Education and Training Course Catalog SharePoint site:

WPAFB Education & Training Course Catalog 2022

Follow us on Facebook @AirForceMarathon, Instagram @afmarathon, and Twitter @afmarathon for the latest news and announcements.

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU! Register for the 27th Annual Air Force Marathon here! The 27th Annual Air Force Marathon is set for September 14 to 16, 2023. September 16th events include full marathon, half marathon, 10K, 3-person marathon relay, Fly! Fight! Win! Challenge Series, and Finish Line Festival at the National Museum of the United States Air Force. The Health & Fitness Expo will be held on September 14th and 15th at Wright State University Nutter Center with the 5K on the 15th. The 27th Annual event will feature three aircraft; HH-60W Jolly Green II, MH-139 Grey Wolf, and UH-1N Huey. Register now here!

Join Our Community - This Facebook group was created for anyone involved with or interested in the Air Force Marathon, Blue Streak Time Trial, Space Force T-Minus 10-Miler, and History & Heritage Race Series. Whether you need some inspiration, training tips, or just want to stay up to date with any news or announcements, this group is just for you!

2023 History and Heritage Race Series: Registration is now open for the 2023 History & Heritage Race Series. Register here today! The History and Heritage Race Series is a virtual series powered by the Air Force Marathon featuring retired aircraft that have shaped the U.S. Air Force's air power throughout history. With options to participate in the marathon, half marathon, 10K, or 5K distance, participants will each receive a finisher medal and patch portraying the featured aircraft for just $30! Learn more & register here.

Space Force T-Minus 10-Miler – Congratulations to all of the athletes who participated in the Inaugural Space Force T-Minus 10-Miler on December 10th, 2022 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station! You can find your results and photos here. Thank you to the sponsors, mission crew, staff, and volunteers who made this event possible. Thank you to all of the participants and spectators who helped celebrate the United States Space Force’s 3rd birthday! This 10 mile race will be a part of the Space Force birthday celebration each year, and will take place surrounded by space launch history. Registration will open May 4th, 2023 for the 2nd Annual event set for December 9th, 2023. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter at @RunSpaceForce for the latest news and announcements.

Blue Streak Time Trial - The Blue Streak Time Trial 10-mile loop course takes cyclists on a scenic route around Wright-Patterson Air Force Base the second Tuesday of each month from April through October. Registration for the 25th Annual Blue Streak Time Trial opens Tuesday, March 1 for the first event of the 2023 season scheduled for Tuesday, April 11. A limited number of bundle registrations will also be available for all seven events (April-October). All Blue Streak Time Trial events are open to the public. We look forward to sharing one of the best and most safe cycling events in the region with cyclists of all talent levels from all over the Miami Valley and beyond!

2022 History and Heritage Race Series: Limited space now available for the XF-85 Goblin, F-86 Sabre, and C-47 Skytrain races. Sign up now to receive the featured aircraft swag! The History and Heritage Race Series is a virtual series powered by the Air Force Marathon featuring retired aircraft that have shaped the U.S. Air Force's air power throughout history. With options to participate in the marathon, half marathon, 10K, or 5K distance, participants will each receive a finisher medal and patch portraying the featured aircraft for just $30! Learn more & register here.

ASBP Blood Drive on Fri, Jan. 6 from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.: Start your 2023 right with a life-saving donation to the Armed Services Blood Program. This Friday, Jan 06, we'll be holding a blood drive at the USO Wright-Patterson auditorium. Walk-Ins are welcome or reserve a time slot using the registration link here: https://www.militarydonor.com/mobile/index.cfm?group=op&step=2&opid=102952&opidh=C6915215640F9AACA1259693F4D1FCBC&idt=44916.1654745

Coffee Connection – Spouses Only! Tues., Jan. 10 at 6 p.m.: Mil Spouses, our adults-only Coffee Connection on Jan 10 is just for you. Make new friends, build local connections, and share info with fellow military spouses. Register now at https://register.uso.org/4111BMB7/5a3I8X3SDr4.

Join our USO Wright-Patt on Facebook Group at usowrightpatt.org to stay up to date on all events or call us at 937-904-0541 for more information. Our USO center staff can also be reached at eoberg@uso.org and rfranz@uso.org. The WPAFB USO center is currently open Tues-Fri from 9 a.m.to 5 p.m. and Sat from 3 to 9 p.m.

Follow us on Facebook @wrightpattersonexchange for a listing of promotions, specials, events, food trucks schedules and MORE!

Floyd & Gerties NOW OPEN!  At your Main Exchange Mall – Stop and in at Floyd & Gerties!  Store located in the foyer of the Exchange Entrance on the left! Check out their line of handmade cups, clothing, soaps, candles, bath bombs and much more! Talk to Krista about customizing items to make the perfect gift! 

HEALTHIER 4 U VENDING – HAS A NEW 24 HOUR LOCATION – Area B Express Lobby is open 24 hours for afterhours vending needs. If you are interested in adding vending machines to your location please call the Exchange Services Office at 937-879-2713.   

BLDG 16 News - Jus Juic’N has moved back in Bldg. 16. Jus Juic’N will be providing a limited menu of juice, vegan chili/soup and grab and go sandwiches and wraps. Stop in and see our Jus Juic’N team from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Coffee Café – Coffee Café is open in Bldg. 16 Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. with coffee, breakfast and lunch options made to order. Stop in and check out the daily lunch specials. Use the code word “ABW Bulletin” and receive a cookie or chips of your choice free with your meal purchase!  

Digital ads now available to be sent directly to your inbox!  Find fresh deals and savings in our digital ads! Sign up at www.shopmyexchange.com

DOD CIVILIANS and Coast Guard Civilian Employee can now shop at the Exchange in store and ONLINE!  ***NOTE: cannot purchase tobacco, alcohol or military uniforms

DOD CIVILIANS and Coast Guard Civilians can now apply for a MilStar Card!  

Now, DoD employees are eligible to apply for a MILITARY STAR account both in-store and on myecp.com and can shop both in-store and online. Perfect for the upcoming holiday shopping season! With access to online shopping, DoD employees also enjoy MILITARY STAR benefits, like free shipping!

Specific MILITARY STAR benefits for DoD employees include:

·       2% Rewards on in-store and online purchases
($1 spend = 2 points; 2,000 points = $20 reward gift card)

·       Same industry low APR for everyone

·       10% off all first day’s purchases at Exchange facilities
(15% periodically throughout the year)

·       5 cents off per gallon of fuel on installation

·       10% off food court purchases

·       Exclusive savings and financing offers!
NOW HIRING at the Exchange – The Wright Patterson Exchange is hiring for admin, retail and food positions! For more information, call the Exchange Recruiting Office at (937) 879-1342. Apply now at www.applymyexchange.com and see where your future can go with the Exchange! #WhereHeroesWork

Burger King & Charleys – Salad Wednesdays! $2 off any salad valued at $4 or more. Offer valid at the Wright-Patterson Food Court Burger King, Charley’s, Area B Burger King.

https://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil    https://www.facebook.com/AFmuseum

Happy New Year from the entire Museum team! As we enter 2023, we celebrate our 100th Anniversary! Our year is jam packed with events and exhibits for visitors of all ages. Stay tuned to our website and social media for details on all upcoming activities.

Upcoming museum closure: The museum will be closed for Emergency Management Response Training on Jan. 25.

Registration for Fitness Under the Wings is still open.  Join us every Saturday in January before the museum opens for a unique fitness experience! Take a FREE Yoga class, or get your steps in as you walk through aviation history. Visit https://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/Upcoming/Events/ for the registration link and check out the attachments for a printable flyer to share with your friends and colleagues. All are welcome!

Every month in 2023 the museum will highlight a new gallery. First up in January - Research & Development. Follow our website and social media for unique insights and information about the artifacts in this featured gallery.

Ohio Plein Air Art Society Jan. 21 and 22 - On these days we welcome back the Ohio Plein Air Society for a two-day Paint-In. Museum visitors will find artists stationed throughout the museum, using the airplanes and artifacts as inspiration for their one-of-a-kind creations. Don't be shy! If you are curious about what an artist is doing and what inspires them, stop and ask! They'd love to share! *Please note that this is not a hands-on opportunity for museum visitors.  (Federal Endorsement is Not Implied)

Micro Drone Races Return Feb. 24 to 26 - See these fast flying micro drones maneuver over, under, around, and through the museum. Follow us at https://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/Upcoming/Events/ for emerging details.