Ask Team Minot - Questions & Answers

Thank you for voicing your questions and concerns to "Ask Team Minot." We value your submissions and are committed to researching every submission and publishing the answers on this page. Every submission is taken seriously, and we are constantly looking to improve our processes at Team Minot. The safety and well-being of everyone at Team Minot is our top priotity. Submissions can be made here

 

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 356.  A:   Motorcycle safety training has begun for the year.  Classes are offered for Active Duty and dependents.  Anyone wishing to sign up should contact their unit MSR or 5 BW Occupational Safety directly for instructions.  Class sizes will remain limited to 6 students per class until COVID-19 social distancing rules are relaxed. 

356.  A:   Motorcycle safety training has begun for the year.  Classes are offered for Active Duty and dependents.  Anyone wishing to sign up should contact their unit MSR or 5 BW Occupational Safety directly for instructions.  Class sizes will remain limited to 6 students per class until COVID-19 social distancing rules are relaxed. 

 355.  Q:  Report: One of your solider is committing frauds by Market place on facebook, using ebay and a email to commit his or her money fraudsters operation on or near your base. His name is Xxxx Xxxx his scam email is xxx@earthlink.net.   Our top priority is to create a safer place for buying. While things can go wrong occasionally, there are some steps you can take to make an informed and safer purchase. We tried searching for the information that you provided with the invoice numbere Bay Invoice - ID#XXXXXXXXX but we have no record found.  I am afraid to let you know that the email you received was not sent by eBay and, therefore, must be fake or scam. These types of emails are often called "spoof" or "phishing   Request an investigation.  I have his email conversation I'm willing to forward to you.  

355.  A:  We are sorry if an Airman’s words or actions have caused you concern.  We hope our Airmen present a professional image even when off duty, but sadly that may not always be the case.  However, the USAF does not get involved in private disputes and we do not regulate what an Airman says online.  We trust you will be able to work out your dispute in an amicable fashion. 

 356.  Q:  Are they doing any motorcycle riders course on base anytime soon.

356.  A:   Motorcycle safety training has begun for the year.  Classes are offered for Active Duty and dependents.  Anyone wishing to sign up should contact their unit MSR or 5 BW Occupational Safety directly for instructions.  Class sizes will remain limited to 6 students per class until COVID-19 social distancing rules are relaxed. 

 354.  Q:  Hi, My name is Xxx Xxx. I am writing to you requesting your help or maybe, if you cannot, the contact information of someone who can. I am an ex- Air Force spouse. My ex husband was in the Air Force for 13 years, I believe. We have 3 boys. My ex husband signed his GI Bill over to our boys when he earned it. Unfortunately, that GI Bill was lost when he was sentenced to charges of domestic abuse against me 6 years ago. My then young boys and I testified against him in his trial there at Minot Air Force Base. I am writing to try and get that GI Bill that was previously transferred to my boys back for them. I have a 17 year old soon to be high school senior and twin 15 year old, soon to be Juniors. They have matured to be extremely smart kids, and I would like them to be able to go to college. When all of this first happened, my divorce lawyer advised that I should try yo recover the GI Bill for them, but everything was so overwhelming at that time for me,

354.  A:  We appreciate you reaching out to us with your request.  However, the most appropriate agency to address your request for GI Bill entitlements is the VA.  You can contact them through the website below or by phone at 1-888-442-4551.  If they don’t provide a satisfactory answer through email/phone, you may need to file an actual claim for the agency to adjudicate. https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/contact_us.asp

 353.  Q:  Good afternoon,  I am an active duty member who uses the pool daily for my primary source of workouts. I typically swim before work (0500-0700). There have been 3-5 other active duty members at the pool during this time over the past 2 weeks. I am requesting that the new pool hours be looked into. Not every active duty member has the luxury of taking time off in the middle of the work day to use the 1100-1200 lap swim times. It would be much appreciated if an additional lap swim period was added, either before 0700 or after 1600, in order to accommodate more active duty members that utilize the pool.   Thanks!

353.  A:  We apologize for any inconvenience, but our hours have been modified to meet the greater demand of the base populace for swimming.  As we are able to hire more lifeguards, we can look to expand our hours of operation.  However, the hours, effective 6 Jun, would be our normal hours of operation for the outdoor pool, and the indoor pool would be closed for the season. 

 349.  Q:   Are the parks on base open?

349.  A:  All of Minot AFB Homes amenities are closed.  This includes all of our playgrounds, our dog park, our multipurpose courts, our Community Center and splash pad. 

 348.  Q:   Hi, Dakrats are continuing to multiply! We have about ten massive holes in our yard already!  The base did such an amazing job at the end of last summer getting rid of them. Will this happen at the beginning of the season this year?  Thanks, Katie

348.  A:  In April, Minot AFB Homes started aggressively controlling the Richardson Ground Squirrels in our housing community.  Building on the efforts we started last year we will continue using EPA approved gas cartridges.  Our vendor has been live trapping and relocating the ground squirrels throughout housing as well.  We ask our residents cooperation in staying clear of traps and not disturbing or hindering our efforts as you see them in the community.  We can only successfully execute this endeavor safely if our residents commit to allowing the process to take place without interference.

 

Last year, with the Air Force's assistance, we concentrated our efforts in the Sunflower Haven Neighborhood.  This year we started our efforts in the Prairie Rose Estates Neighborhood.  We will continue to work our way through the community this year from East to West.

 

Our Pest Control vendor EcoLabs has been concentrating their efforts in the North Point Neighborhood so far this Spring.  We recommend reaching out to their maintenance office at 701-727-9312 for instructions on what you can do around your home.

 347.  Q:   I just want to say it makes me very sad that my husband severed 38 years in the military and was kill in Nov-20-2018 and I can’t get any help from anyone to get all of my benefits and all the rest of the things that need to be done just keep getting the run around. This has caused me a lot mental depression. I had to leave here for five months now I’m trying again. We were marry for 30yr he love the military but if he knew what I’m having to go through I don’t think he would be so happy. I have not been able to file my taxes for 2018 because I had been waiting on his 1099 for his retirement which I just got. There is so much more I could say but I  don’t think it matter to anyone.    XXX XXX

347.  A:  We are sorry that you do not seem to be getting the information you are seeking.  The base records indicate all benefits documentation has been properly filed and complete.  Without knowing specific details, we recommend contacting the Department of Veterans Affairs in Minot at 701-852-0177.

 346.  Q:   Good Day, I hope this email finds you safe and well.  My name is Phill and I work at ‘TowFLEXX Aircraft Tugs’ – We have Locations in Brookhaven, PA and St. Augustin, FL., with the head office and production line based in Germany. We are a manufacturer of fully electric and remote-controlled towbarless aircraft tugs, that are currently in service within the US Airforce and other militaries around the world, being used on F15, F16,F22, F35 and A10 (references below). Our tugs do not only have a unique technology, that keeps the nose wheel straight, but they don´t use any hydraulics to make them low-maintenance, and especially in these time, they are supporting social distancing, since only one person is needed to operate. We have just released a new ‘MilSpec‘, that that has been customized to meet the requirements of daily use in the Airforce. It has been fine-tuned by military personnel over the la

346.  A:  Thank you for contacting Team Minot.  You may contact the Small Business Specialist, Ms. Angela Klein at 701-723-4188 or angela.klein@us.af.mil. Additionally, contract opportunities valued over $25K are posted to https://beta.sam.gov/.

 345.  Q:   Do you guys have a baseball team at Minot, my friend and I both got stationed here and are wondering if you guys have a team, thank you.

345.  A:  Softball is one of our core sports. We anticipate having a league once COVID-19 restrictions are lifted and we are able to start playing sports again.

 343.  Q Ive had no problem with Joshua XXXXX until I sent him a video that was in remembrance of him with our son now didn’t think there was an issue because he’s known to have a funny character in the family but now The issue I have with Him is he had made a comment on social media towards my parenting he was out of line the way he talked down to me judging my “parenting skills” when I’ve shown no physical or mental harm to my kids nor anyone else’s kids ever no non parent nor any parent should speak upon how parents should parent a child of theirs especially if they are not around nor ever where around to witness what kind of parents we are he’s a cousin of my two children on the dads family side he’s taught our 5 year old son unkind words between the ages of 2 - 3 years old our son’s has numerous of times repeated these worlds to our family members as well as in his kindergarten school now kids gat

343.  A:  We are sorry if an Airman’s words or actions have caused you concern.  We hope our Airmen present a professional image even when off duty, but sadly that may not always be the case.  However, the USAF does not get involved in private disputes and we do not regulate what an Airman says on social media.  We trust you will be able to work out your dispute in an amicable fashion. 

 342.  Q:   I am trying to buy a tractor from Kristen Jackson who claims to be in the air force and on your base Iam just trying to verify this is a true fact and not a scam Is there any way you can tell me yes or no he s there and selling this 1998 tractor I have been emailing me but said there not aloud to use the phone or text things just not adding up Thank you for any thing you can do for me And please respond even if you can not help again thank you

342.  A:  We are unable to help you with your question.  The USAF does not get involved in personal matters between private individuals.  Furthermore, the USAF respects the privacy rights of our individuals, and consistent with the Privacy Act, does not disclose the personal information of current or former military members to third parties.

 341.  Q:   HEADQUARTERS 5TH BOMB WING, MY ADDRESS HAS CHANGED.  PLEASE SEE BELOW.  THIS CHANGE ALSO NEEDS TO GO TO THE AF SERGEANTS ASSOCIATION.  THANK YOU.

341.  A:  The data provided has been provided to our personnel sections and private organization coordinator to be updated.

 340.  Q Hello - not sure how this can be improved, but it is difficult to see the sign and read the phone number to text the Pharmacy for curbside pick up.  I was able to read the instructions from the empty parking spot's sign next to me, but when the spots filled up, others backed their car out or physically got out of the car to read the instructions.  Otherwise, service was efficient, polite, and hygenic! Thank you Med Group and Pharmacy personnel!

340.  A:  Thank you so much for the positive feedback and the recommendations to improve the process. Our Pharmacy team is currently playing with different fonts to make it easier to read.

 338.  Q:    I live in Cedar City Utah and a training group of F35s did a flyover of some of us along I-15 and Rte 89 as a thank you to our first responders. They let it be known that those four planes would do the flyover in formation and posted a time frame. It was  thrilling for all. I know you probably do not have a fighter wing but you could do this with a bomber. My daughter and her husband live in Bismarck and their daughter is a nurse and lives in Devils Lake and served as a combat medic in Afghanistan a few years ago. I know they would be thrilled if you could do something like that. Thank you.

338.  A:  Thank you for your suggestion.  Minot AFB did the flyover in honor of local First Responders on May 21, 2020.

 337.  Q:     Are there any restrictions to get on base?

337.  A:  Due to the continued mitigation efforts of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and the potential impact on mission readiness, wing capabilities, and personnel safety, installation access restrictions were implanted on 18 March 2020 and will remain in effect until further notice.  

   336.  Q:     My name is Lynn Kriechbaumer and I’m a Sales Assistant with Guaranteed Rate with the Travis Lang Team.  My husband is a retired disabled veteran. After serving in the military I realized I would like to give back to our active members of the military and retired veterans.  I’m wondering if you would allow our team to come up to minot and give free homebuyer and refinance workshops.   These workshops would give valuable information to both active members and veterans alike.  If this is possible can you please direct me to the correct person I will need to contact to set up workshops.  I appreciate your help in advance and look forward to hearing from you.  Warm Regards, Lynn Kriechbaumer, Executive Sales Assistant, Travis Lang Team, XXX.XXX.XXXX, Lynn.Kriechbaumer@rate.com

336.  A:  The Air Force already provides these services to our Airmen free of charge.  Our employees are certified in Air Force approved programs.  We do appreciate you thinking of our Airman.  Thank you!

 334.  Q:     Hello,  I was searching for solutions for the little critters terrorizing my dog (dakrat/ Prairie dog) not sure what they are? Is there any you can tell me that would help this situation?  Sincerely,  Chris Mathewson

334.  A:  Thanks for reaching out. Our Civil Engineer Squadron is responsible for eradicating Richardson Ground Squirrels on the base and Balfour Beatty takes care of housing. BBC actually has a list of things you can do to help mitigate the issues around your house. We recommend reaching out to their maintenance office at 701-727-9312 for instructions on what you can do around your home.

 333.  Q:     I have been perusing the pictures on your website, particularly the B-52 navigation simulator. In the early 1960s I worked for Marquardt in Pomona, California, where we built the AN/APQ T-10 radar simulator for the B-52. Are these still in use? Are the pictures on your site of the T-10?  

333.  A:  The AN/APQ T-10 radar simulator for the B-52 has not been in the SIM since 1990.

 332.  Q:     I am looking for foster parents that I was on the base with in 2003 2004 to help me get legal information and records that were stolen from me. I was drugged with chemicals in my blood that affect my body through radar/radio waves and have been denied getting help to get new blood and antibiotics to save my life.I am slowly dying. And need help away from the people I'm around. XXX-XXX-XXXX  

332.  A:  Dear Sir, I'm afraid we cannot help you with your question.  The USAF does not get involved in personal matters between private individuals.  Furthermore, the USAF respects the privacy rights of our individuals, and consistent with the Privacy Act, does not disclose the personal information of current or former military members to third parties.

 331.  Q:     Hello,  I'm trying to find out when the motorcycle safety course is going to start.  Thank you for your time.

331.  A:  Good Afternoon, Motorcycle safety training has begun for the year.  Classes are offered for Active Duty and dependents.  Anyone wishing to sign up should contact their unit MSR or 5 BW Occupational Safety directly for instructions.  Class sizes will remain limited to 6 students per class until COVID-19 social distancing rules are relaxed. 

 330.  Q:    My husband was wondering if he could get contact information for the 91st MMXS commander.  His phone number is XXX-XXX-XXXX.  Thank you!

330.  A:   Please contact the 91 MW Director of Staff at 91MW.DS.DirectorofStaff@us.af.mil.  That office will be able to assist you with requested information

 329.  Q:     Hey there. I am here at Sheppard AFB waiting for my orders and I feel like i am be skipped over in the process. I understand that there are a lot of airman that need orders, but i have been out of class for two weeks now and all of my classmates are in Minot now and airman in a B-52 class going to Minot have there orders. I just want to make sure I am in the process and will get them eventually. Thank you for understanding and the clarification.

329.  A:  Hello, You will need to reach out to your servicing MPF at Shepperd.  They can be reached by phone at 940-676-4314 or via email at 82FSS.FSPD.OutboundAsgn@us.af.mil.  Thank you!

 328.  Q:     When is the gym going to reopen. Asking for a friend.

328.  A:  The first phase in reopening the McAdoo Fitness Center began Friday, 8 May 2020.

 

Hours of operation:

Mon – Fri 0600 – 2100

•          Closed for Cleaning 1300-1400

•          DSI Only Access 1400-1530

Sat & Sun 0800 – 1600

 

Facility access during this phase is limited to AD, ANG/AFR on orders, and AD dependents over age of 16 To ensure the health and safety of our customers and staff the following COVID-19 mitigation methods will be in place:

•          Customers will:

            - Sanitize hands upon entering facility

            - Customers will sanitize equipment before & after use

            - Wear cloth masks when using weight room or nonaerobic equipment

**Customers failing to do so will lose fitness privileges for 1 week

•          Social distancing is required

•          No group sports activities

•          Following remain Closed/Off Limits:

•          Locker rooms/Showers

•          Steam rooms

•          Rock wall

•          Racquetball courts

•          Aerobic room/Massage services

•          Parent & child fitness room

 

Thank you!

 327.  Q:     Hi - I've seen several questions/posts about the Outdoor Rec garden plots. Definitely lots of interest in them. I realize Outdoor Rec is currently closed - but will they be offering garden plots this year? If yes - could you share the information?

327.  A:  Outdoor Rec reopened on Monday, 4 May.  Garden plots for returning customers (those who had a garden last year) were available for renewal as soon as we reopened on Monday 4 May.  New customers (who did not have a plot last year), can reserve a plot as of today, 11 May.  Thank you!

 327.  Q:     Hi - I've seen several questions/posts about the Outdoor Rec garden plots. Definitely lots of interest in them. I realize Outdoor Rec is currently closed - but will they be offering garden plots this year? If yes - could you share the information?

327.  A:  Outdoor Rec reopened on Monday, 4 May.  Garden plots for returning customers (those who had a garden last year) were available for renewal as soon as we reopened on Monday 4 May.  New customers (who did not have a plot last year), can reserve a plot as of today, 11 May.  Thank you!

 326.  Q:   Hello. This may seem impossible however here I go trying again.  I am looking for my son Bryce Bone he entered Air Force 2018. I am his mother and I am disabled, his father brainwashed our Son when he married, which left a big impression on my boy. I just want to send him care packages and let him know I LOVE HIM SO MUCH. i would give my left arm to be able to write Bryce, he is a good Man!!!!! He was a boy when his father took him in as i was trying to get SSI and had zero income.   Please find in your heart a way to get me in contact with my Son. I'm taking a guess he is at this base although i see theres another base there as well, hopefully I've found him. My name is Sheila XXXX address po box XXXX phone XXXX....please please advise if theres anyway you could help a mother reunite with her Son!!!!! God bless you

326.  A:  I'm afraid we cannot help you with your question.  The USAF does not get involved in the personal matters between private individuals.  Furthermore, the USAF respects the privacy rights of our individuals, and consistent with the Privacy Act, does not disclose the personal information of current or former military members to third parties.  If the individual is a member of the USAF and is stationed at Minot AFB, we will provide your contact information to them.  Thank you!

 325.  Q:   Hello, Where are the designated Minot AFB "no hat no salute" areas?  Thank you

325.  A:  In accordance with AFMAN91-203 11 DECEMBER 2018 and AFI21-101_AFGSCSUP_MINOTAFBSUP 3 APRIL 2017

The flight line is designated as a no hat area on Minot AFB.  No additional areas are identified as no hat/no salute areas.

 

AFMAN91-203 11 DECEMBER 2018

24.4. Additional PPE Requirements. The information below is specific to flightline operations and activities and is in addition to the PPE requirements of Chapter 14. Maintenance employees shall wear heat-resistant gloves and long-sleeve shirts to prevent burns when working around hot exhaust or tail pipes. (T-1)

24.4.1. Head Apparel. Hats or bump caps will not be worn in an engine intake danger zone, as defined by the specific aircraft TO, while engines are operating.

 

AFI21-101_AFGSCSUP_MINOTAFBSUP 3 APRIL 2017

11.8.3.6. Each base will develop a local flightline clothing policy that addresses wearing of hats, badges, and passes aimed at FOD prevention while considering climate and safety. (T-1). As a minimum, it will include the following requirements:

11.8.3.6.6. (Added-MINOTAFB) To prevent a FOD hazard to aircraft engines, only cold weather caps/hats will be worn while on the flight line or other aircraft operating areas (i.e. taxiway, runway, hardstands, aircraft maintenance hangars, etc). All caps/hats will be removed prior to entering TO specified engine intake danger zones with engines operating.

 324.  Q:   I am looking to speak with whomever is in charge of this project. My company is the inventors of the air supported structure and we would like to be involved int he project. Please contact me by my email or my cell 914-417-1262. You can visit my website www.asati.com

324.  A:   Thanks for your inquiry. We're still in the design phase of this project and don't expect to advertise until next fiscal year. At that point we will post the requirement on beta.sam.gov/.

 323.  Q:   I was stationed with the 455th msl wing from 1962 till June 1966, worked Job control, with CMSGT Williams as NCOIC and also MsgtJones and others would like to contact the msl wing if they have an E Mail address I am 89 yrs old and it has been a long time helped dig the silo.s and install msls as well as working job control, first commander was Col Fredricks he went to Grand Forks  later, he did not have wings on his chest..

 

323.  A:  Please contact the 91 MW Director of Staff at 91MW.DS.DirectorofStaff@us.af.mil.  That office will be able to assist you with requested information.

 322.  Q:   Good afternoon,  I am currently conducting a background investigation for a female recruit who was once stationed at Minot AFB. I am trying to locate any military police reports and am unsure who to contact. Could you please provide a phone or fax number where I can send a request for information along with a release form. Thank you.

322.  A:  Please contact 5 SFS Report and Analysis Office, ATTN: Mark Mittelstadt, mark.mittelstadt@us.af.mil, Telephone #:  701-723- 6532.

   320.  Q:   Do i need to get a access card or something to pick up a person from there cuz I just had a ride request from there but i couldn't cuz she said i needed access before I could come on there if so how do i get that thank u

 

320.  A:  Personnel that require your services can be picked up/dropped off at our Visitor’s Center.  Base passes are not being issued at this time.

 318.  Q:   need all medical records and military records from when I was at Howard air force base in panama and Minot north Dakota Please email form to xxxxxxxx and include fax number where to fax back Please.

318.  A:  Someone from the Minot Military Personnel Section will be in contact with you.

 317.  Q:   Will the referral management office be open this and next week?  Thank you for your time and consideration in the matter.

317.  A:  Thank you for the question. At this time, referral management is open and is operating normal clinic hours. However, staffs sizes have been reduced to maximize social distancing so wait times might be longer than usual.

 315.  Q:   Good Morning,   I have a question regarding covid-19. I have heard that the first case in Ward County is    Retiree who came onto base on Wednesday. As someone that also came into base on Wednesday, I was wondering if there’s a timeline for when this person crosses into the gate and even which gate they used? I’m also wondering if we know where they went?   Thank you,

315.  A:   Thank you for the question. While we can't discuss specifics related to any individual, we can tell you that all applicable preventive health measures were taken so as not to affect other beneficiaries to include residents and our defenders.

 313.  Q:   I’m currently in training at Lackland AFB and was wondering exactly how long I have to live on base in the dormitory before I can move off base? And how much BAH would I be receiving monthly if I’m an E-2? Any help would be greatly appreciated, thank you.

313.  A:  Currently the BAH for an E-2 without dependents is $885 monthly. Normally you can expect to live in the Dormitory until you reach the grade of SrA > 3 yrs TIS. 

 312.  Q:   Good morning. I am circling back to my below email seeking guidance and direction on the right person(s) to speak with on Light Mitigation solutions for wind farms.  My hunch for the ‘right person’ is one who sees radar systems functioning on a wind farm as a safety threat to the traveling of helicopters from point A to B.  Again, my goal is to host a conversation so I may better understand the Air Force’s concerns and then share our technology as a proven technology and solution. I look forward to hearing from you.  Thank you,

312.  A:  We recommend you contact the 8 AF lead for this issue: Name: Lt Col Michael L Toomer AFGSC Deputy JA, Phone: (318) 781-5305, Email: michael.toomer.2@us.af.mil

 310.  Q:   Hi! I’m trying to get in touch with a friend that I haven’t heard from in a while and am kind of worried about. I’m at a loss in terms of how to best contact her. I know her most address from before she moved, her name (Xxxx Xxxx), and that she’s stationed at this base. Any information you’re able to provide (or even letting her know that I’m trying to contact her) would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Xxxx Xxxx.

310.  A:  Your inquiry is not within our span of control.  Security and privacy prohibitions do not permit the validation of requested information. 

 309.  Q:   Hello,   We have a commercial off the shelf made in Canada drone / counter drone system. It can carry ISR packages as well as small lethal and less lethal systems. We would love the chance to discuss our capabilities with your team.   If you could please let me know who we should reach out to for Drone / UAS systems for your base.   Thank you for your time, Xxxxx Xxxxx, XXX-XXX-XXXX

309.  A:   You may contact the Small Business Specialist, Ms. Klein at 701-723-4188 or angela.klein@us.af.mil.  Additionally, contract opportunities valued over $25K are posted to https://beta.sam.gov/. The ND Procurement Technical Assistance Center has a website for small business training and events throughout the year located at https://ndptac.ecenterdirect.com/events.  The ND Small Business Administration's website for training and events throughout the year is at https://www.sba.gov/offices/district/nd/fargo.

 

 308.  Q:   Hi, My husband and I loved every In duluth, man. Tonight we witnessed more than 20 white lights in the sky, perfectly spaced apart, perfectly straight lined with one another coming from the direction of Minot, one after the other after the other. We didn't see any flashing lights or they didn't make any noise. We are wondering if it was an elephant run from your afb? Tha was the conclusion we came up with.  Asking because we've never seen anything like it. Thank you in advance!  And thank you for your services!!!

308.  A:   Minot Air Force Base did not have any jets takeoff from the base this Saturday.

 306.  Q:   I was trying to reach Twyla Scott (or at least that is the contact info I was given) but the only name that came up in my directory search was Twyla Evans. I applied for a RPT bartender lead position at the Jimmy Doolittle Center but I already work FT at Popeye's.  I would like to discuss the possibility of maybe transferring over as a FT bartender so that I can keep my benefits (including pension). I don't mind working fewer hours if that is why it needs to be PT. Please let me know if this is something that can be discussed. Thanks so much. XXX XXX, XXX-XXX-XXXX  

306.  A:   The contact information for 5 FSS NAF Human Resources is 701-723-1993.  The determination of whether a position will be flexible or regular is determined by the Flight Chief and Hiring Manager prior to advertising the job opening.  Unfortunately at this time we are only hiring flexible bartenders as we do not have current operating hours to support the requirements of a regular position with benefits.  For a list of current regular positions with benefits that the 5 FSS is hiring for please visit USAjobs.gov.  Thank you.

 305.  Q:   Have you got any information to corroborate the assertion by NDSU that the grain fields in the Minutemen missile complex were sprayed with DDT?  I was a launch facility guard in the 862nd Combat defense squadron from 1964 to 1967. I personally witnessed crop spraying aircraft discharging liquid insecticides on the wheat fields. What evidence of health claims does MAFB possess?  Thank you for your cooperation in advance.

305.  A:   We have no records nor claims that indicate or support identification of the stated issues.

 304.  Q:   HI my name is Cameron Schestler I go to school for watcher middle school and we are doing a school project. Our goal is to thank our troops. And we need your permission to send a bunch of letters to the military.

304.  A:   Thank you for your kind thoughtfulness of our troops.  There is no prohibition on mailing letters to the military.

 303.  Q:   I was wondering what the policy is on dog abuse? Is there a military wide policy? Does Minot AFB follow local dog abuse policies? Also when reporting to the LE desk do they put the report somewhere to store for later in case it becomes a pattern? My last question is are the calls recorded when you call the LE desk because when my friend called in to report the same dog related incident my friend was told to “mind your own business” and I feel this should be noted somewhere that the members at the LE desk are acting this way.

 

303.  A:   We take all complaints seriously and will investigate this negative interaction with those on-duty.  If you could provide more information on when this interaction occurred we could look into the personnel on duty and provide corrective training if needed.  All reports that are substantiated are recorded in our daily blotter and our official system of record.  The system of record allows us to look up cases, observe patterns, and look at historical trends.

 

Any claims that are validated are screened against the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) for action to suggest applicable charges, which can be found at: https://jsc.defense.gov/Portals/99/Documents/2019%20MCM%20(Final)%20(20190108).pdf?ver=2019-01-11-115724-610, Article 134 covers animal abuse.

 

Depending on the jurisdiction and location on base, our posts and patrols in the cantonment area may be heavily influenced by North Dakota Century Code, which can be found at: https://www.legis.nd.gov/cencode/t36c21-2.pdf and the case could be passed off to Ward County.

 302.  Q:   Do you have a lady named xxxxx xxxxx that works in the medical group? I am asking as someone by that name is selling a car online and I want to know if it's real or a scam person using that name.

302.  A:   Your inquiry is not within our span of control. The USAF does not engage in personal, non-mission related transactions of its members. Security and privacy prohibitions limit permissions to validate information for any USAF members.

 301.  Q:   Hello,   I go to the gym pretty much every day around the time that barely anyone is there. When my husband is not in town I take the baby with me to workout. I am not in anyone's way with the babies car seat, but I was told that I cannot be in any other room in the gym with the baby except the family room.   It also doesn't help that other people without kids use the family room, which I don't think is fair at all when they have the whole gym to use and we can't.   I can obviously come after hours when there are few people and workout without the gym staff there since the family room doesn't have all of the equipment that the rest of the gym has...just throwing that out there.   Is there any way the cleaning crew can clean the family room at the later time in the night (2200-2230) like they do with the restrooms...instead of 11-1130 (when families and babies are more awake)? &

301.  A:   Thank you for your inquiry.   The Air Force instruction on age policy is clear.  The McAdoo Fitness policy mirrors the Air Force policy and is posted in the entrance of the facility as well as every room.  If an individual is in the family room with no children, please notify the front desk.  Equipment is placed in each room based on the required space and to maximize usage.  Times of cleaning are negotiated as part of the base cleaning contract. Currently the parent/child room is cleaned 1x/day, on the day shift.  We are looking into if the contractor could move that cleaning to the night shift.

 

 

Per AFI 34-266 (atch), Table 3.1. Age Policy.

 

 

Youth 16 years of age and over

Permitted in all areas of the Fitness and Sports Center without a qualified adult*.

 

Youth 13 - 15 years of age

 

Permitted in cardiovascular, weight equipment, group exercise rooms, locker rooms, saunas, etc., only under qualified adult interactive supervision. Interactive supervision requires qualified adult and child to participate in/perform activity together at all times.

Permitted in other activity areas (i.e., basketball court, racquetball court, running track) only when a qualified adult is present in the facility at all times. Permitted to be a participant (participating in age appropriate programming) or spectator in a sport or special event when a qualified adult is present in the facility at all times. For Fitness and Sports Center pools, use is permitted during instructional programs, or when a qualified adult is present in the facility at all times.

 

Youth 6 - 12 years of age

 

Not permitted in cardiovascular, sauna, weight equipment rooms, or group exercise rooms during scheduled adult exercise classes. Permitted in other activity areas (i.e., basketball court, racquetball courts, running track, locker room, parent and youth area) only under qualified adult interactive supervision. Interactive supervision requires qualified adult and child to participate in or perform activity together at all times. Permitted to be a participant (participating in age appropriate programming) or spectator in a sport or special event only under qualified adult interactive supervision. For Fitness and Sports Center pools, use is permitted during instructional programs, or when under qualified adult interactive supervision.

 

Children under 6 years of age

 

Not permitted in Fitness and Sports Centers except as follows: Permitted in Fitness and Sports Center parent (legal guardian) and child areas for supervised play. Permitted to be a participant (participating in age appropriate programming) or spectator in a sports activity or special event under qualified adult interactive supervision. Interactive supervision requires qualified adult and child to participate in/perform activity together at all times. For Fitness and Sports Center pools, use is permitted during instructional programs, or when under qualified adult interactive supervision.

 

NOTE:

*For purposes of Table 3.1, a "qualified adult" is a parent, legal guardian, qualified family member program (FMP) staff member, qualified child and youth program personnel Fitness and Sports Center personnel conducting a program, or coach. AFI 34-144, Child and Youth Programs, provides further guidance.

 

3.6.2. Enhanced Services: Enhanced services may be provided through contracts on a fee basis. Services may include, but are not limited to, juice bars, massage therapy, parent and child area, parent and youth area, family locker rooms, and supervised child care.

** Develop a local parent and child area operation instruction in coordination with the Child and Youth Services Flight Chief. There must be a 30” high clear partition, e.g., one-half inch thick shatterproof tempered glass, allowing for direct line-of-sight supervision, with an entry/exit that can isolate the child play area completely from other areas. Local policy will be posted in the parent and child area that address the following: children must be supervised by their own parents/legal guardians; parents and legal guardians must maintain direct line-of-sight supervision of their children at all times; the maximum capacity of children and adults in the parent and child area; the age limit for the children using the parent child area indicating whether users must sign in at the reception desk acknowledging parent and child area policies. (T-1). 

*** The Parent/Youth Area is optional.

 

As you can see, according to AFI, we should technically be charging for both use of the family room as well as classes offered to non-military.

 

We are continuously looking for areas of improvement to best accommodate our airmen and their families.  Our ability to do so is driven by policy and resource constraints.  We hope this information helps.

 300.  Q:   Can the USAF help my daughter   She is awaiting child support payments per recent divorce decree.  Ex husband is not responding.

300.  A:  Greetings, The USAF requires its Airmen to maintain personal responsibility.  Please advise your daughter to contact the installation Staff Judge Advocate (SJA) for assistance.

 299.  Q:   I purchased a 1966 Cub Cadet 122 garden tractor from a guy that lives near Minot, ND. He mentioned to me that he thought it may have been from you base. On the hood it has stenciled "TW-19 US-CE-C". I'd like to know any information you may tell me about if your base may have owned it? And what it was used for at the base?  Thanks for any information.  Xxx Xxxx.

299.  A:   Greetings.  Unfortunately we are unable to provide the requested information.  Since the equipment could have been used by an entity not affiliated with the installation or by one of our current or previous contractors we would not have the vehicle’s history. 

 298.  Q:   Hello I am warehouse person at Overhead Door in Minot. We got a package on a large pallet full of garage door parts, this package is for Rob Thieller at Bldg 505. It must have fallen in truck & driver put on wrong pallet. Package contains a magnetostrictive probe? I can not reach/talk to anyone on base as all #s I have tried were a fail! Please let Rob know I have this package & my # here is 852-XXXX, name is Tami.

298.  A:   Thank you for your inquiry.  The organization’s commander has been informed and will contact you directly.

 297.  Q:   Good morning, I am new to the base and was shocked to discover there is no recycling program here or in the town of Minot. I understand the local business recently stopped taking anything except paper. As Airmen, we are encouraged to be good stewards of the earth and reduce our ecological footprint. There must be some alternative? Even having bins available for members to sort their own refuse and sending it elsewhere (Bismark, Fargo, or Grand Forks maybe) would be better than the current arrangement. I have been here just over a week and it kills me to throw things I know should be recycled into the trash. We can do better! Is there any money in the budget to create such a program?

297.  A:   Minot AFB currently does not have a recycling program.  The installation has reached out to local recyclers to evaluate potential interest in a recycling program on base.  We’ve found that the lack of a viable recycling capability in our area is limited due to local recyclers lacking the capability or are not interested in starting up a base program.  Balfour Beatty offers recycling for cardboard and other items.  The collection point is the parking lot of the Community Center on 256 Spruce Street.  Use of the service is limited to BBC residents only.

 

Please know that we are working with the City of Minot who is conducting a market analysis on a potential city-wide recycling program.  We are also working with local groups to solicit support for a recycling program at Minot AFB.

 296.  Q:   Attached is a flyer for the Ward County Historical Society Roaring 20s Gala event, to be held in Minot on Saturday, May 2, 2020. If you could please speak with public affairs about posting flyers around base to open the event to the interested Airmen. Thank you for your help.

296.  A:   The general rule is that Federal Government communication systems and equipment (including Government owned telephones, facsimile machines, electronic mail, internet systems, and commercial systems when use is paid for by the Federal Government) shall be for official use and authorized purposes only (JER 2-301). 

 

The JER does allow distributing information.  JER 3-208 provides in accordance with public affairs regulations, official channels may be used to notify DoD employees of events of common interest sponsored by non-Federal entities.

 

The Roaring 20’s Gala is a fundraising event presented/hosted by the Ward County Historical Society.  The proceeds of the fundraising event will go to help rebuild the pioneer village museum.  On Saturday, 2 May 2020, the event will take place in the Grand Hotel Ballroom from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.  The event will have live music by The Swing Band of Minot.  Guests can call ahead for a $100 table reservation.  Guests can pay $35 dollars in advance or $30 dollars at the door.  The Gala is a fundraiser and not an event of common interest to DoD employees. There is not really a relationship between the Air Force and the advertised item.  The Gala is primarily to raise funds to help rebuild the pioneer village museum.   If the event were a free event for Air Force families and its focus was primarily to create a fun activity  it would be an event of common interest.  Air Force employees could attend for fun at no cost.  The primary focus of the Gala is not to invite Airmen to come hear The Swing Band of Minot.  The primary focus of the Gala is to raise funds to help rebuild the pioneer village museum. The analysis would be similar to a PO advertising on Minot Air Force Base (AFI 34-223 para 11.1.3). 

 

It is recommended that the Gala post on the Minot Air Force Families facebook page.  They can send a friend request or find someone already on the facebook page.  This facebook page has wide following of DoD employees and it would be a good venue to advertise the fundraiser. 

 295.  Q:   Good Morning,  My name is Tim Wiemer and I am the Regional Sales Manager at Geveko Markings. We specialize in preform thermoplastic pavement markings for roadways and bike lanes. We also do custom logos and decorative crosswalks in the brick pattern. I wanted to reach out to you today to see if Minot AFB handled their own pavement markings or if was something you contracted out. If you would be interested in setting up a time to speak to go over our products, I would love to talk with someone. I have included the link to our website and a few of the brochures to the email so that you can see more of what we do. Hope to speak with you soon!  www.geveko-markings.us

295.  A:   You may contact the Small Business Specialist at 701-723-4188 or angela.klein@us.af.mil.  Additionally, contract opportunities valued over $25K are posted to https://beta.sam.gov/.  The ND Procurement Technical Assistance Center has a website for small business training and events throughout the year located at https://ndptac.ecenterdirect.com/events.  The ND Small Business Administration's website for training and events throughout the year is at https://www.sba.gov/offices/district/nd/fargo.  Thank you.

 294.  Q:   Please Direct this to the Base Commander's Office*** My name is Troy Wainscott & I am the owner of T&H Supply Co. LLC Dba ForeverLawn Red River Valley who is a local dealer of premium artificial turf & synthetic grass products that are specially engineered for playgrounds & parks, sports fields of all types, dog parks, pools & splashpads, putting greens, and much more. I am also a 90% disabled veteran of the Iraq war and served with the 142nd ECB in Balad Iraq in 2003-2004 making my company a Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) in SAM allowing our products and services to be procured under the SDVOSB set aside funding and not under the organic base budget.. (T&H Supply Co. LLC EIN 83-4608904) (www.playgroundgrass.com, www.k9grass.com, www.sportsgrassturf.com, angela.klein@us.af.mil.  Additionally, contract opportunities valued over $25K are posted to https://beta.sam.gov/.  The ND Procurement Technical Assistance Center has a website for small business training and events throughout the year located at https://ndptac.ecenterdirect.com/events.  The ND Small Business Administration's website for training and events throughout the year is at https://www.sba.gov/offices/district/nd/fargo.  Thank you.

   293.  Q:   This is an issue that I think is relevant to the base. We often get told not to get a DUI. Yet when you get a Lyft or an Uber that cannot pick you up from your residence, you have to park at the Visitor Center. Yet if you leave your car in the Visitor Center overnight,  you get ticketed. So as member, who’s trying not to get a DUI, you get punished?  The fact that you have to notify your shirt the next morning of this ticket is embarrassing . Not everyone wants to phone a workmate, specially knowing you are either going to bother an Airman or a member who is spending time with their family. What is the solution to this base-wide? I know there is the AADD Thurs-Sat, what about the rest of the week? 

 

293.  A:   In order to limit reaching capacity at the VCC parking lot, members using services such as Uber or Lyft should use the golf course parking lot, along Hwy 83, to the maximum extent possible. Signage indicating that the VCC parking lot is not intended for overnight parking, is being developed. Due to zero program participation and lack of volunteers Sunday through Wednesday, the AADD program continues to provide requests for support Thursday through Saturday.

 292.  Q:   First off, I'm terribly sorry to bother you with such pettiness. Today, Friday, there was a woman who claimed to live right off base, complaining on the families page about military members blaring music on 83 on their way to base every morning, and that it disturbed her because of a severe hearing sensitivity. People quickly (and politely) tried to explain that there's really nothing to be done, as it's a public highway. She, in turn, quickly turned rude, argumentative, and racist. She claims to have a year and a halfs worth of photographic, video, and audio "evidence" of people coming to base every morning, to include license plate numbers. She's also claiming to have an "elite drone" that she uses to gather her "evidence", along with a camera with commercial and professional grade zoom lenses. She claims she's going to come to base to present all of this to her "high ranking fri

292.  A:   Thank you for bringing this to our attention.  It is always the intention of our military community to be good, considerate neighbors and we can remind our folks from time to time.  However, we cannot legislate what happens on a public highway which, in this case, is the jurisdiction of Ward County. 

The one concern we can address is the use of drones near the military installation.  A policy has been established to ensure awareness of FAA and DoD regulations regarding the safety and security of resources and personnel on base when operating drones. 

  1. What is a drone: Small unmanned aircraft systems that weigh less than 55 lbs.
  2. What must be done before flying a drone: Certify and register the drone, follow federal requirements referenced at the FAA's website, and if flying within 5 miles of the Minot AFB perimeter, you must notify the airport operator and the Air Traffic Control tower.
  3. What are the Airspace Restrictions: Anywhere on base, all Missile Alert Facilities and all Launch Facilities

Operations are prohibited from the ground up to 400 feet above ground level, and apply to all types and purposes of UAS flight operations.  If you see a drone flying in restricted airspace, just remember the acronym DRONE - Detect, Report, Observe, Notice features, Execute appropriate reporting, as this will help base Security Forces members keep our base, assets, personnel and their families safe.  

Any questions or concerns should be reported immediately to law enforcement.

 291.  Q:   Hi! I was wondering when the last night lil riders was cleaned? I know there was hand foot and mouth outbreak a few weeks back, so I was wondering if it was cleaned since then. Thank you.

291.  A:   Thank you for your concern.  There is no medically confirmed case of Hand, Foot and Mouth disease traced to the Lil' Riders play area.  We take the well-being of our customers very seriously, and this area is cleaned at 8pm, every night, Monday through Saturday. 

 

 290.  Q:   Can my 3yr old bring cupcakes to eat and share with the fire station for his birthday in April? 

290.  A:   Absolutely -- the WarBull Firefighters would love to welcome your son to the station. Weekends would be ideal due to typically slower operations, but please just let the Fire Chief know when you’d like to stop by. [Personnel info redacted, contact Minot PA for further questions at 723-6212]

 289.  Q:   We would like to host a free fitness class for active duty military members.  How would we advertise this or get the word out on the base?

289.  A:  Fitness classes can be coordinated through the base Fitness Center.  Please contact Ms. Judy LaRue at (701) 723-4915.

 288.  Q:   I am deaceased SSGT XXX, XXX mother. Prayerfully this get into the right hand I would like answers A copy of the death certificate A copy of the toxicology report A copy of the Autopsy report When was the case close and the finding of the ruling Thank you XXX, 

288.  A:   Our deepest sympathies on your loss.  A representative from the Air Force Office of Special Investigations will be contacting you shortly to provide you information.

 287.  Q:   I would like to express my displeasures for Rockers customer service. For an establishment that is solely based on serving food, Rockers has to be the worse I’ve came across. Even being on a military installation, you would think customer service would be a number one asset. Not only when it comes to their manager who is completely rude to everyday customers in person, but also the employees over the phone. When it comes to a food establishment, being put on hold is understandable... but when you get put on hold for over 5 to 10 minutes, three out of five times, there’s a problem. Not only being put on hold, but having to hang up and call back just to go through the same process is really unprofessional.   I don’t know if it’s a moral thing, leadership, or just not caring. Regardless of what it is, Rockers is by far the most unprofessional restaurant I’ve been to. It’s extremely sad that it also h

287.  A:   Thank you for your feedback.  We continuously strive to provide the highest quality customer service to all our customers and deeply regret that you had a negative experience.  Your concerns were addressed with Rockers management as well as their flight leadership, and we hope you have a more pleasant experience during your next visit.  For feedback in any FSS facilities, we encourage all our patrons to use the ICE system.  Please go to: https://ice.disa.mil/index.cfm?fa=service_provider_list&site_id=206&dep=*DoD

 286.  Q:   Tell me why Rockers customer service is the worst I’ve ever seen? Even over the phone they put you on hold and 5-10 minutes later you don’t here anything from them. They just leave you on hold until you hang up. You call again and the same stuff happens. Gotta be the worse service I’ve ever seen. Also their manager is just as bad if not worse than the employees.   Thank You!

286.  A:   Thank you for your feedback.  We continuously strive to provide the highest quality customer service to all our customers and deeply regret that you had a negative experience.  Your concerns were addressed with Rockers management as well as their flight leadership, and we hope you have a more pleasant experience during your next visit.  For feedback in any FSS facilities, we encourage all our patrons to use the ICE system.  Please go to: https://ice.disa.mil/index.cfm?fa=service_provider_list&site_id=206&dep=*DoD

 285.  Q:   Minot AFB TMO will not deliver HHG until 09 Jan 2020. My daughter, TSgt XXX with family recently arrived on base and reported in on 16 Dec. They were able to move into base housing over the previous weekend. Their HHG were shipped from Moody AFB prior to Thanksgiving and they drove 4 days to arrive by her reporting date. With Christmas coming up, bare floors, no furniture or beds, and a 6 year old, they really need their HHG ASAP. Can you please look into this issue and assist them with this quality of life matter.    Thank you for your help.

275.  A:  BLUF: Unfortunately, the contracted carrier (AAction) is unable to offer a HHG delivery date earlier than 9 Jan 20.

The HHG arrived in Minot on 3 Dec 19.  AAction contacted the Member to schedule delivery at that time; however, they did not have a house available for delivery.  On 16 Dec 19 the Member called to provide a home address and to indicate that they would like to schedule HHG delivery.  AAction’s earliest availability for the HHG delivery was 9 Jan 20, and as of today that remains unchanged.    

AAction is one of only four contracted carriers that service Minot AFB; therefore, they each remain fairly busy throughout the year.  That busy schedule, combined with reduced work days and personnel over a two week holiday period, did not bode well for a faster than average wait time from scheduling to delivery.  We reached out to AAction to determine the feasibility of an earlier HHG delivery date for the Member.  AAction stated that they are trying to accommodate an earlier date for the Member as well as many other recent arrivals; however, at this time they cannot offer a date earlier than 9 Jan 20.

 284.  Q:   Hi, my name is XXX  I'm almost 16 and I'm in the 10th grade. A little bit about myself is that I was in photography, I love working with animals and I enjoy traveling around the United States with my family.  Anyway, besides that I'm trying something new and I would like to know if you could help me with a project I want to start collecting again police and fire patches or a challenge coin and I would like to know if you could help me with my project, so I would love it if you have a Fire Patch or Police dept. Patch or challenge coin. I have around 20 police and fire patches so far and would love to get more. Oh and my favorite patch is pink for breast cancer that I hope to get more to make a display for them to. These patches will never be sold or traded. So if you could help in any way with a patch or something that would be great.  I did ask my parents what they thought about it, but the only thing they said, well

284.  A:   Unfortunately, we do not don’t have a Fire Department or Security Forces challenge coin or patch for public consumption.  You may want to check public sources for these types of memorabilia.  We wish you the best of luck with your project.

 283.  Q:   The pictures attached are of bldg 527 west side loading docks.  I deliver there everyday along with many others. The reason I'm bringing this up is the lack of snow removal and safety hazard. Last winter I fell at the same location due to the same situation. When I confronted the NCOIC, he passed the buck saying it's CES job. Today I asked the airman who removes the snow? She stated the snow team does after it snows. Well it hasn't snowed for a couple of days and it still looks like this. Bottom line there should be a clear path to the side door and the steps should be clear of ice and snow. I would appreciate some attention in this matter of removing this safety hazard.

283.  A:   Thank you for your inquiry.  Snow/ice removal in that area is the responsibility of the LRS Facility Manager.  Upon notification, Bldg 527 personnel advise they removed the snow from that area.

 282.  Q:   I'm trying to find the name of the priest serving at Minot in 1978.  If you could find out the name of the priest serving Lackland in august to november 1977. That would be very helpful.  Thank you and blessings for this advent season.  

282.  A:   Thanks for your inquiry.  Unfortunately, our records don’t go back that far and recommend using public record sources.  For general knowledge, any individual with appropriate documentation, can place an inquiry for personnel records via the NPRC website at https://www.archives.gov/personnel-records-center.

 281.  Q:   Sir, I am writing because I am unhappy with the care my wife has received over the last few months from the Fifth Medical Group.  Just so you know I have already reached out to my provider at the group and they informed me that they would bring it to the attention of the squadron commander the next morning, this meeting occurred on the 17th of December and as of this date nothing has be done.  My wife Monica has breast cancer and it has already moved to other parts of her body, I feel that if there would not have been an almost six week delay be the medical Group we would not be at the point of treatment we are right now.  Today marks her second chemo treatment in a 22 week serious of treatments.  The delays occurred from the day she found her lump and tried to schedule a monogram, to the biopsy she needed to the denial for her to see a specialist.  Again I believe these are all delays that could have and should

281.  A:   Thank you for bringing this to our attention.  We are unfamiliar with the case but we'll be reaching out to the patient/family.  Also given the nature of the request, we will contacting you directly to address these concerns.

 280.  Q:   I am currently a NAF employee at an overseas base. My spouse is a GS employee moving to Minot. I am trying to find out if I get any preferences when we move for trying to find a job there.   Thank you very much!

280.  A:   Thank you for your inquiry.

Unfortunately there are no preferences for spouses moving with a GS employee back to stateside bases.  As a current NAF employee, you will be able to go on 150 days of leave without pay in conjunction with your PCS with head of household.

We do have many positions available here at Minot AFB. Please take a look at what we have available on USAJOBS.gov

If you need any assistance at all please feel free to contact us by phone 701-723-2812 DSN 453-2812 or reply to this email.

Welcome to Team Minot!

 279.  Q:   I work at the Official Mail Center, 135 Tanker Trail (same building as the post office), and we do not have any heat. CE is supposedly working on this issue, but this has been an ongoing problem for years. We have to keep our coats on and run multiple space heaters all day. As the temperature continues to drop, it becomes more unbearable. The temperature in our office this morning was 58*, and last week our hallway was 38*. Further, we have several leaks in our roof in the hallway and in the post office. We also have one room with no working lights, and multiple other inoperable ballasts and burned out light bulbs throughout our work areas. We do not have a building custodian and rely on CES to address our issues. I am an active duty military spouse, and it's disheartening to see the way this building is being managed (or rather not managed) and the way our concerns and issues are not considered a priority; I get the impr

279.  A:   Thank you for bringing this to our attention. While your facility has multiple occupants and organizations, there is a Facility Manger who we will be in touch with to ensure they are submitting on behalf of all facility occupants and providing updates as needed. We have dispatched our HVAC team (18 Dec) and are working to get the system up and running. Additionally, this facility is undergoing a roof repair contract that has been paused until the spring. Our HVAC team will work with the facility manager to provide local updates.

   278.  Q:   Do you participate in a retirees at cost hearing program to obtain hearing aids for retirees?

278.  A:   Thank you for the question, the 5th Medical Group is not a Retiree-At-Cost Hearing Aid Program (RACHAP) program facility.  The TRICARE website https://tricare.mil/CoveredServices/IsItCovered/HearingAids lists the bases (normally hospitals or other settings with on-site Audiology) that offer services for retired members and their family members.  Additionally, the VA medical system is another option to pursue if you are a retired service member.

 277.  Q:   For MSG/FSS, Got an error saying CAC got blocked around 1430 today (Thursday).  Called help desk and was informed only way to fix was to talk to Deers office/CAC office in pride building.  Called MPF to see if it was possible to unblock CAC over the phone.  Was told had to come in person to Deers office to get fixed.  Asked how late Deers Office was open today (Amn wasn't sure so put me on hold to check, said 1600).  I said perfect enough time to get over there to resume doing time sensitive work.  Got to Deers office at 1510 to find out only thursdays they close at 1500 (other days 0800-1600).  Question is what can the MSG/FSS do to make sections make accessible or if due to manning that is not possible can an alternative means for MPF functions be made available?(Over phone/online/a secondary office/etc).  What can be done to ensure proper training of those persons answering phones are providing co

277.  A:   Thank you for your feedback.  We apologize that you were given incorrect information in regards to operating hours for the DEERS Office.  We will use this as a training opportunity for our MPF personnel.  The DEERS office and function within AFGSC is contracted out and not performed by military personnel.  The contract precludes us from being able to open a second location and/or expand operating hours.  In addition, most DEERS actions require in person confirmation with several forms of ID presented at the time of the visit to protect everyone.  This means over the phone or alternative remote options are not possible.  Thank you!

 276.  Q:   Good afternoon, My daughter is a member of the EFMP program. As such we receive respite care monthly. I have recently become aware that our respite care providers are being shorted pay. My main care provider, is short $750 from her October paycheck, and she cannot reach anyone to correct the problem. She has not received pay for November yet. I do not know who to contact about this, and would have the appropriate air force personnel at least be aware of the situation, as this WILL affect our air force families as our care providers start to leave this job. I feel like this is a huge liability, and I am shocked that it is happening.  Thank you for your time.

276.  A:   In October 2019 the Air Force made some major changes to the EFMP Respite Care Program.  The most significant changes were that the AFSVC took over the way in which care is scheduled, documented, and ultimately how the Provider was getting paid for providing the care.  During the last few months the AFSVC EDC website has posted numerous messages informing Providers about the status of their payments and reasons as to why there have been delays.  Below are a sample of the latest messages:

02-Dec-2019 - Our office is still working payment adjustments. However, we still need some credentials from providers.  Please ensure that you answer our emails or phone calls ASAP.  The next adjustment will go out tomorrow and should be in your bank NLT Wednesday.  We have several issues with timesheets, some individuals are submitting timesheets with no time in care. Other timesheets have time in care on it, but it is not the correct date, that is falsifying your timesheet and you will not be reimbursed.

13-Dec-2019 - Our office has released the November payment.  In addition, we released an additional supplemental October payment as well. 

There are always challenges when transitioning to a new system or program, however, all indications are that the Providers either have received or will shortly receive all of their October and November reimbursements.  We did check records today and have verified the provider has been paid.  We appreciate your concern for our Providers. Thank you!

 275.  Q:   My name is Ben Marich. I am the Veterans and Diversity Outreach Manager for TAD PGS Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Adecco Inc., the world’s largest human resources company. I am a 100% disabled Marine Vietnam veteran who tries to place veterans, spouses, and people with disabilities with companies throughout the United States.   I work with LVER’s, DVOP’s, individuals, and organizations to place veterans, individuals with disabilities, minorities, and others in careers and provide the resources for training, benefits, education, etc.   I produce a career availability report for our firm that highlights hundreds of our available positions throughout the country. I have attached our most recent one for your review.   If it would be of help, I can send these reports to you if you forward your work email address and contact information to me at Ben.mari

275.  A:   All Minot AFB vacancies are listed on USAJobs.gov, applicants would need to apply through this site.

 274.  Q:   We just moved to the area. I looked around for car pooling options especially when you live off base and have family that need to get around. I have a teenager who goes to Central Campus and has to take lyft back and forth. Maybe start a club for car pooling?

274.  A:   Welcome to Minot!  We know that public transportation in the Minot area can be challenging.  As a valued member of our Team Minot family, we encourage you to reach out via any one of our MAFB Family social media groups to connect with others who have similar challenges.  Also, we recommend you consider adding this idea to the Team Minot Club app if you want to start a commuting club.

 273.  Q:   Why aren’t the sidewalks, and roads not salted? If the roads were salted the night before snow falls, then ice wouldn’t form! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been walking on a sidewalk and nearly slipped and almost died from walking on icy sidewalks, even when watching my step. Does this base not believe in salting the roads? Please help me understand.  Thank you!

273.  A:   Thanks for your question. Believe it or not, snow and ice control is slightly more involved than just salting roads and sidewalks prior to snowfall. There are limitations to the effectiveness of salt as an ice melt as temperatures approach 0 degrees Fahrenheit (salt won't melt ice). As temperatures stay below freezing the ice will only melt and then refreeze.  The 5 CES snow control team removes snow and ice from the airfield and main roads on base while Balfour Beatty Communities (BBC) is responsible for the housing side. For base side sidewalks, only high occupancy sidewalks are cleared under contract, while the rest of the sidewalks are the individual Facility Manager's responsibility.  On base we use a 3% mix of salt to sand just like they do downtown. We limit our use of melt application on the roads for several reasons, including limiting tracked FOD (sand) on the airfield, clogging storm drains, and the impact of the salt/sand mix on vehicles (i.e. corrosive properties).  Finally, during melting season the salt effects the water quality and has ecological drawbacks to the wetlands located on and around base. 

 

Unfortunately, that means we'll never be able to completely defeat ice during the winter, so it's important to know how to best cope with it.  Walking on ice is challenging, but doing so like a penguin will help you leverage physics to your advantage

 272.  Q:   When ICE comment cards are submitted, to what level do they go and are seen?  

272.  A:   FSS/CC and FSS/DD see all ICE comments in addition to the applicable Flight Chief and Manager.  The site is administered by the FSS Marketing Department and if a comment is submitted that should be seen by someone in a higher position the Marketing Director will forward the comment to FSS Leadership to be forwarded appropriately.  Thank you!

 271.  Q:   Last year when it was -60 degrees Chicago, and Minneapolis shut down.  Minot AFB has Amn on the gate.  Why didn’t the base go to minimal manning for extreme cold?  I thought that was terrible!

271.  A:   We sincerely appreciate your concern for Minot AFB Defenders.  Weather is always an issue for us here in the northern tier and other locations which experience severe weather.  This year, as in previous years, the number one mission of security forces is to protect and defend our assets and the installation. That mission requires vigilance and intensity 24/7-365 to ensure protection and guarantee security.  In doing so, we equip our Defenders with weather appropriate equipment to ensure the success of our mission.

 270.  Q:   I did on the job entomology training at Minot AFB back in the mid 1970's how can I get my records?

270.  A:   We regret to inform you that unfortunately training records are not archived.  Training has an expiration and would therefore not be part of any records dating that far back.

 269.  Q:   Is it possible to improve the winter maintenance on ice in the parking lots and handicap access?   Is there anything that can be done to help the ice in the parking lots? The walk across the parking lots is a bit treacherous. Our squadron parking lot has not even had any sand come through.   A bobcat with a plow came through on the walkway this morning and completely discarded the handicap ramp that is filling up with snow and ice. 

269.  A:   Thanks for bringing this to our attention. We’ll get the snow team over today to take care of your parking lot. In the future, please know that your Facility Manager (FM) can always contact CE Customer Service for snow and ice support. We do have priorities to work through, but in ice situations like we’ve had recently, it helps for FMs to communicate particularly troublesome areas with us. 

Please note that sidewalks and handicap access ramps are the FM’s responsibility. We’ll take care of the parking lot, but your FM will need to address the other concerns.  Thank you.

 267.  Q:   I'm a Developmental Disabilities Program Manager with the state of North Dakota Department of Human Services.   I work with individuals with Developmental Disabilities and disability service providers as an oversight and budget authority.   I understand that the MAFB thrift shop is looking for volunteers. Individuals in our services are always looking for community volunteer activities especially those that contain work skill elements to complete their days with meaningful activities and enhance their employability in the community.   Some individuals work paid jobs out on the base, e.g., cleaning crews and the postal office. Some individuals choose not to work paid jobs. But they do a variety of volunteer tasks too, such as cleaning the fire station in Burlington, meals on wheels in town, etc.   I feel our partnership can be beneficial to the MAFB thrift shop and our individuals who are receivin

267.  A:   Thank you for your interest and information!  The Thrift Store is run by a Private Organization, we will pass on your message.

   266.  Q:   Is leadership aware of the mail issues on base?  Many packages and mail are being opened and/or stolen.  This is only going to get worse and continue with the holidays. It’s all over the Minot AFB families FB page.  

266.  A:   Thank you for your inquiry. MSG leadership, Office of Special Investigations and the Staff Judge Advocate previously met with the US Postal Services officials to discuss the reports of tampered and missing mail on Minot AFB. While the review remains in progress, there are no current reports of missing or tampered mail and/or packages at MAFB. 

 

Any issues with lost or stolen mail at Minot AFB should be reported to our base USPS at (701) 727-6488.  From time to time the MAFB post office receives undeliverable mail, i.e. wrong address, name not on mailbox, no apartment number, etc.  This mail is held for ten days at the MAFB post office and is usually picked up when people are expecting mail that has not yet been delivered.  If mail is not at the MAFB USPS facility, they will provide information on the claims process for open, stolen or tampered mail.   It is always a good idea to first contact the sender of the package.  In order to claim a lost package through USPS, the mailer of the package has to be the person to file the claim.

 258.  Q:   Hi I was wondering if you could help me, my father was stationed at Minot ND in the 80’s before being transferred to Ellsworth Air Force Base. I was wondering if there’s a way to get a letter or certificate of recognition for my dad. My dad passed away last week so I would love to display it at his funeral on Nov.4,2019 in Hudson Fla. my dads name is Kevin P. Mallory, if I have the wrong place maybe you could point me in the right direction. Thank you.

258.  A:   Thank you for your inquiry.  We have reached out to the Air Force Reserve Center (ARPC) who has placed an inquiry with the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) on your behalf to see if there are records available that can be given to you for use during the funeral.  A representative from ARPC will be reaching out for additional information.  For general knowledge, any individual can place an inquiry for personnel records via the NPRC website at https://www.archives.gov/personnel-records-center.

 265.  Q:   Can anyone explain why the pharmacy doesn’t have a fill line and a separate pick up line? You stand in line for 30 minutes to activate a prescription, wait 20-30 minutes for it to be filled, or leave and come back, only to stand another 20-30 minutes behind all of the activation people. It’s ridiculous. 

265.  A:  Thank you for the question. We apologize for the longer than usual wait time you experienced on Monday. On Monday and Tuesday in particular there were multiple factors that effected wait times to include unexpected manning shortfalls and an installation level network outage that significantly slowed processing time. While we have the shortest wait times within the MAJCOM and cannot control the network outages, we are working on a creative ways to augment pharmacy staffing to potentially open additional windows.

 262.  Q:   My son has been a pilot for 5 years. He presented his broken wing to his mom (me) and dad upon graduation from UPT. He is to be married next May. I am wondering if giving the half wing to his new wife after the wedding, would be the traditional or the appropriate thing to do. Please could you give me some advice here?

262.  A:   Ma'am, Thank you for reaching out.  In conversation with several pilots, there are no hard fast rules for this tradition.  The wings are theirs to give as they deem appropriate.  The only idea behind the tradition is that the pilot keeps one half of the wings, and someone important to them keeps the other half.  Tradition in most cases is that the wings are reassembled or put back together and placed upon the chest of the pilot at the time of their passing or passed to another important person in their lives, such as a child, sibling, etc. Traditions are many and personal as determined by the pilot.  Therefore, we believe it is completely appropriate, but not required, for you to pass the wing to his new wife, as long as your son is okay with the gifting of the wing.

 261.  Q:   Hey new airman here, was just curious how getting mail worked at this base? Do i need to go to the post office to set it up or is everything general delivery?

261.  A:   Thanks for the question and welcome to Minot! You just need to bring your ID card to the military side of the Post Office and they'll get you squared away with a mailbox assignment, key and instructions. Regular mail is delivered daily to the dorm mailboxes. If something doesn't fit in your box you will receive a notification with the post office box where the package is being held, along with a key to retrieve it. If you have additional questions, please see your Airman Dorm Leader and they'll be happy to help.

 260.  Q:   Hello,  One of the doors in The Little Riders play area is broken!  The top hinge is pulled out of the door. It fell on a little girls toe and it looks like she will lose her nail. Please fix it ASAP. There are to many little children going in and out.   Thank you!

260.  A:   Thank you for bringing this to our attention.  Our FSS and CES teams have made this a priority and door has been repaired and restored.

 259.  Q:   I am new to Minot and have noticed when there is communication about events (ie the B52 tour), there isn’t a map of base that has been helpful to find locations. I received a map at the Spouses Welcome but it’s hard to follow with little road labeling. However, the building numbers on the map handed out is EXTREMELY helpful. A clearer copy would be beneficial. I’m not sure what security is required for maps but want to voice my concern.  

259.  A:   Welcome to Minot AFB where Only The Best Come North!  Thank you for bringing this issue to our attention.  Please find attached a map provided by our civil engineering squadron which details streets and a legend to identify installation areas.  We have distributed this updated map to our flight chiefs to give out to future newcomers and for posting in our facilities.

 257.  Q:   Good evening,  I am not sure exactly who this note should go to, but I trust PR can make sure it finds its way in to the correct hands.   I wanted to thank the entire MAFB Fire Department for all they did for our local fire department the other evening.  They hosted us for a training and the entire event was above and beyond anything we could have imagined.  They spent several hours with us in the training facility, then took their own time to not only help us break down our own equipment, but invited us back to the fire hall to debrief in their classroom!   Thanks for the wonderful training and hospitality that was shown!  The entire department is a class act.  Sincerely, Glenburn Fire Department

257.  A:   Chief Heser, Thank you for recognizing our MAFB Fire Department. Our team appreciated the opportunity to train with your fire fighters and discussions on how we can work better together. We value our community partnerships and rely heavily on your Department and others across North Dakota to support the Missile Complex. Thanks for your continued partnership and support!

 256.  Q:   My child is a GS employee at the commissary and lives in town.  Road conditions are red, no travel advised yet they is being told they will be considered AWAL if they doesnt come into work. This is insane! How can they say that? It's the commissary. This job is not storm essential or mission essential.  This needs to be addressed immediately.  DECA OR FSS need to think this through better.  This is why you can keep employees here on this base. If you cant get workers in, you close. Workers should not have to put their lives in danger for $30K a year! I'm looking forward to your response. 

256.  A:   We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience.  DeCA responds to weather conditions based on the Installation reporting status as determined by the installation Commander.  In the most recent snow event, DeCA was not notified of the Installation status due to a reporting oversite.  Unfortunately, this caused a lot of confusion in getting information to our DeCA employees during inclement weather.  Installation authorities have assured us that DeCA will receive installation reporting notifications so that we can provide timely notification to our employees.  As always, the safety of our valued employees is a concern and if any employee does not feel safe traveling to the base in inclement weather, we encourage them to use the option of taking leave and remaining at home.

 255.  Q:   I desperately desire to have childcare access to attend group fitness classes at the gym. The family fitness room is a great option but it’s nearly impossible to focus on my health when I am also breaking up a toddler fight every 5 seconds. Will there ever be an option for childcare (even if I had to pay) during the group fitness classes? 

255.  A:   Due to the strict federally mandated requirements of child care, there will not be an option at the fitness center, however Minot has a very good Family Child Care program.  To find out if a provider has drop in availability, please contact our FCC Coordinators at 202 Peacekeeper (located next to B50 Brew), or at 723-6662.   Thank you!

 253.  Q:   I would like to express my extreme disappointment with the youth center. We have been disappointed by the youth center several times in our short time here at Minot for a variety of reasons, but most recently, due to the changing of the established schedule for flag football. Sports at the youth center have always been Tuesdays and Thursdays. Families plan their other activities around this established schedule. Additionally, other youth focused organizations on base (like Minot AFB Cub Scout Pack 435) plan their meetings on days other than Tuesdays and Thursdays so that there are no conflicts with the youth center sports schedule. Furthermore, many families have church/chapel focused activities on Wednesdays. Our family has planned activities on Mondays and Wednesdays, but when we registered our son for flag football, we knew those events would not conflict with youth sports because youth sports is always on Tuesdays and Thursdays. However, w

253.  A:   Thank you for your feedback.  We are always working to meet the needs of our customers.  Our sports program has never been advertised as specific days of the week, as practices and game schedules are largely dependent on the availability of our volunteer coaches.  We are committed to providing a sports program, but we do not commit to a schedule until we have a roster and volunteers.  We understand families need to make choices for their children based on their unique situation, and we are sorry your family must now choose which extracurricular activity is most important to you.  In this particular instance, a survey was sent to participating families and based on the results, the Monday/Wednesday schedule was not an issue for the majority of participating families.  FSS does not have a role nor responsibility to organize or influence other Youth organizations at Minot AFB.  As the availability of our volunteers effects our schedule, the availability of volunteers likely effects scheduling for all other organizations that have programs for youth.  That being said, we do regularly meet with the schools on base to de-conflict as much as possible, allowing us to maximize participation opportunities.  Ultimately, parents need to prioritize what is most important for their family.  We do appreciate your feedback and will take it into consideration when advertising future Youth Sports to provide clarification up front, that game and practice schedules will be determined after sign-ups are complete and based on volunteer availability.    Thank you!

 251.  Q:   Hi, Hope this email finds you well. I am a PA student/military spouse in my clinical year with Red Rocks PA Program in Denver, CO. My husband is in the Air Force and being moved to Minot Air Force Base in October. As am still in my clinical year until graduation November 2020, I am looking for clinical shadowing opportunities to serve the communities around where I will be living. We will be living on Minot Air Force Base.   I was hoping you could put me in contact with providers at Minot AF.  Precepting can be with a MD, DO, PA, NP, or midwife. We have monthly rotations in June to October. With our final October rotation being an option "job shadowing opportunity" for future employment. Thank you, Jessica O'Neal, PA-S2 Red Rocks PA Program, Class of 2020

251.  A:   Thank you for the question. Our Medical Group's Education and Training office will contact you to see if a training affiliation agreement can be developed to support your request. 

 248.  Q:  I don’t use social media. How was I supposed to know the South Gate would be closed for 30 days? Why wasnt this communicated earlier, and multiple times during the month of September?  Last time south gate was closed, SFS would NOT allow POVs to use the North Gate.  Now apparently we can use it.  Terrible communications coming out from Minot AFB!  And I’m using polite wording here....

248.  A:  Thanks for your input. The weather has been pretty bad lately, so the start date wasn't clear until recently. Nonetheless, we wish we had gotten word out sooner on the gate closure. Thankfully, this is the final closure associated with the Bomber Blvd construction project, so we're pushing hard to get it done before winter.

 245.  Q:  Hello, my name is Airman XXX; and the reason why I am writing this mail it's because I was wondering if you guys have some kind of transportation for airmen who doesn't own a car yet and they have to travel somewhere off base. Could you please give me an option that it's not Uber or Lyft? I will really appreciate it. Thank you for your time.

245.  A:  In response to your question and the ability to get to/from an off base appointment; duty related appointments on or off base include medical and dental for the AD member (dependents typically not included) are considered official and the use of a GMV is authorized.  In this case there are a number of COAs available to you: 

  1. Use a GMV assigned to your unit
  2. Request a vehicle from Ground Transportation
  3. Request GMV taxi support from Ground Transportation

 

If the appointment is non-duty related, use of GMVs purchased with appropriated funds would not be authorized for the members personal convenience.

In response to the availability of other transportation options; bus services for non-duty support requires AFIMSC/CC approval and is restricted by congressional mandates outlined in DoDM 4500.36 enclosure 5 which are prohibitive to this service from being a feasible option. Other options are equally restrictive under similar guidance to include fraud, waste, abuse and ethics standards.

BL: Options for “official” support are restricted if the transportation need is for a member’s personal convenience.  In such cases recommend you discuss with your unit additional options that do not involve use of appropriate resources.

 244.  Q:  Why is the appointment line closed? I’ve been calling since 0700

244.  A:  Thank you so much for the question. The 5th Medical Group is generally closed until 1300 on the 4th Wednesday of every month for training. On those days notifications to our beneficiaries are usually made via our Facebook site along with signage posted prior to entering the medical facility campus. That said, the Medical group did indeed have phone line issues during the timeframe you were calling that was related to a network outage, but was restored at approximately noon that day.  We apologize for any confusion or inconvenience this may have caused.

 250.  Q:   Hello, my name is Clarissa. I’m messaging you in regards of my fiancé, a solider named Derrick Tilley. He was supposed to report to Minot AFB for drill in the beginning of September, but hasn’t been able to because of something extremely unfortunate and unexpected happened. He’s not going AWOL, that he wants you to know. His situation just hasn’t allowed him to contact any military to inform them of it. I’m trying to get into contact with the IST coordinator Sergeant Upgren about Tilley’s situation. If you could please contacts me at 5202567084, that would be greatly appreciated.

250.  A:    Thank you for contacting Team Minot.  The NDANG forwarded your inquiry to ND JFHQ for possible resolution. 

 249.  Q:  My name is Matt with Viixim inc. We are a third party seller on Amazon.com. I'm attempting to get in contact with Donald K. Jones (PO112911) in regards to an Amazon order for a "Luxul AMS-2624P AV Series 26-port/24 PoE+ Gigabit Managed Switch".   This item is a special order and we are awaiting a lead time for delivery from the manufacturer. Please contact us as soon as possible.

249.  A:  Your inquiry is not within our span of control. The USAF does not engage in personal, non-mission related transactions of its members. Security and privacy prohibitions do not permit the validation of information for any USAF members.

 246.  Q:  Hi, I was wondering are u suppose to take the asvab to get a job on base ?

246.  A:  Thank you for your inquiry.  ASVAB is only required for entry into the military.

 243.  Q:  I know many homes on base have been affected by flooding and Balfour has “approved” these residents for reimbursement of their alternative shelter expenses.  If Base Lodging/TLF is available, it is likely the most convenient in an urgent situation.  My concern is that Balfour is not paying for this unexpected lodging expense but requiring the service member to pay up front for this expense and seek reimbursement from Balfour.  The reimbursement would need to be processed and eventually “reimbursed” by Balfour taking less money from the service members BAH.  It seems that Balfour should have an account with lodging so all residents “approved” would not have to pay up front for their emergency shelter.  Waiting weeks for Balfour’s version of reimbursement is not a viable option for many living paycheck to paycheck and certainly shouldn’t be the only option available.  Thank

243.  A:  Thanks for your inquiry. You're correct that BBC's primary method of reimbursement for lodging expenses due to water intrusion issues is through future rent reduction. However, for reasons you stated, they actually did authorize someone to stay at the TLF and charge it directly to BBC. They've also made an accommodation to issue an electronic funds transfer as reimbursement for someone who wasn't able to wait for the allotment to repay them.

 

Bottom line, we agree and BBC is already making those accommodations on a case by case basis.

 

If you or someone you know is having issues with lodging repayment or other issues related to BBC, please don't hesitate to let me know so we can advocate on their behalf.

 242.  Q:  Hi my husband has made a fake profile on snapchat and has screenshot naked photos of others woman I have been his wife for three yrs and yet he still continues to cheat on me....... I am claiming adultuary in him what is your response????

242.  A:  Thank you for contacting Team Minot.  Privacy statutes prohibit our engagement in the private transactions of our Members without a legal requirement to do so.

 239.  Q:  My name is Xxxx Xxxx and I am a BSN RN relocating from Williston, ND to Minot, ND in search of a registered nurse position. I would love the opportunity to learn what positions are available.

239.  A:  Thank you for reaching out to Minot AFB for medical employment opportunity.   For all nursing positions applicants may submit a resume, nursing license, and transcript directly to: Minotstaffing@us.af.mil or apply on-line through https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/519525800 .  We recommend applicants apply online as well as send us a courtesy copy to our office at the email above.  V/R, Civilian Personnel Office.

 

 237.  Q:  Are ferrets allowed in the dorms? If not what animals are permitted?

237.  A:  This is covered in the Unaccompanied Housing Resident Brochure, Section 2 (Resident Responsibilities), para 2.5, Pets will be limited to fish in aquariums no larger than 10 gallons, and caged pets are limited to 1 guinea pig or 2 hamsters only. All other pets are prohibited and will be removed from the dormitory room at the resident’s expense.

 235.  Q:  Hello,  My name is Michelle I am a military spouse. My husband and I have 5 children, 3 of which are school aged. We live on Waverly Way and 2 of our children attend North Plains Elementary School.  I have four areas of concerns regarding the lack of sidewalks and properly maintained roads as you approach to the school from housing.  The travel to school for children and their families who walk with them, is not safe. Families must leave the safety of the sidewalk and travel through the grass or into the road to make their way to the school building. My only desire is to keep children safe as they make their way to school in the morning and home in the afternoons.    *  My first concern is the abruptly ending sidewalk as it turns from Roaming Road onto Huey towards Rd C (The road running in front of North Plains Elementary).  The sidewalk ends into the grass leaving children, on their way to and fro

235.  We have had these concerns come up before. It is Minot Public School (MPS) leased land so the base doesn’t have a lot of say on these concerns. However, each of your concerns is addressed as follows:

 

The first concern of the sidewalk ending and not continuing onto the intersection of Roaming Road and Huey is that the sidewalk was designed for traffic in front of the school and to the sides of the building not to that intersection. It has been discussed with the district and cost has been prohibitive and not necessary as the sidewalk going south from the main entrance does in fact, continue to Roaming Road.

 

The second concern of the potholes, we will forward that concern to the Building manager as it is in fact worse this year than in the past.  Also, depending on the lease lines between BBC and MPS that small section of Huey might be a BBC responsibility.  That will require some follow up.

 

The third concern is basically the same concern as the first in that there is no sidewalk access completely along the Road C.  There is sidewalk access to the school using the sidewalk that is directly south of the building and there is sidewalk access along Peacekeeper Place. 

 

The fourth concern of the missing ADA access on the sidewalk south of the school will be forwarded to the MPS building manager. However, the purpose of ADA access is not intended for bicycles and strollers.  I do think that the district is in compliance as they have ADA access into the school and maybe not at every access point.

 

Your concerns will be forwarded to the building manager for the district so they too can determine if a course of action may be needed.

 236.  Q:  I don’t understand why the north gate is not open to POVs when the South Gate is closed. The main gate cannot handle the morning traffic without excessive wait times. Please open the north gate at least from 6-830 please.

236.  A:  Our #1 priority is the security of the assets located on Minot Air Force Base.  Operational requirements dictate the security posture of the installation and the operation of the gates.  When possible, we will notify base personnel of changes to gate closures/operations and changes to our security posture.  Concurrent with last week’s notifications of gate information, additional security forces were placed at the Main Gate to help execute security requirements.  Additionally, units were asked to stagger show times or utilize their own internal plans to help elevate gate delays.  The restrictions at the North Gate are based on security requirements/operations for the installation. The North Gate will remain open to ONLY commercial traffic until further notice.

 233.  Q:  What is the process of enrolling my kids in dental?

233.  A:  Thank you for the question.  The TRICARE Dental Program is a voluntary dental plan.  Sponsors can enroll through the Beneficiary Web Enrollment website, Phone (844-653-4061), or by mail.  If accessing via the milConnect website, you would click on “Manage Health Benefits”.  Within the Health Benefits site there will be a “Medical Dashboard” tab and a “Dental Dashboard” tab.  At this point you will be able to see which family members are enrolled and which are not.  If you do not see a family member listed please contact your local DEERS office to ensure they are enrolled.  To enroll members simply click on that name or click the “+” sign next to the name and select the plan coverage that fits your specific situation.  Please note enrollment changes can be made at any time, however they must be made before the 20th of the month to be processed for the 1st of the following month.  Also, once enrolled most plans require a 12 month minimum enrollment period. Attached is a complete brochure with information on enrollment, plan details, and all other pertinent information. For any questions please contact the 5 MDG Beneficiary Counseling and Assistance Coordinator at 701-723-5176. 

 234.  Q:  Hello,  My name is Stephanie and I work for Connole and Somerville plumbing and heating in Minot. We have submitted a request through Russ Gohl for base passes about two months ago. I am trying to reach someone about status on these base passes but can never reach anyone as the visitors center. If you could please help me get in touch with someone about this I would greatly appreciate it. I had another contractor submit a request for one of the people as we are doing a small job for them up there and got his within a week.   Please let me know. thank you.

234.  A:  Greetings Ms. Jetty, Mr. Gohl is in charge of the base privatized utility contract for water and sewer. Mr. Mike Nilson from the 5th Civil Engineering Squadron takes care of these types of base pass requests. You can re-submit your requests to Mr. Nilson, michael.nilson@us.af.mil for processing.

 231.  Q:  Sir/Ma’am, Today I informed the Outdoor Rec staff of an electrical shortage at Pad 3. The power connection was arcing. I shut off the power before my RV was damaged. The attached photo is my surge protector and the burned prong. I don’t believe your ODR staff understands the danger. I’m asking your staff to review the electrical panels at FAMCAMP to prevent a tragedy. Pad 6’s power is also inoperable.

231.  A: Thank you for bringing this to our attention. Our Civil Engineers evaluated the situation and worked with Verendrye Electric to resolve the issue. Please contact CE Customer Service (701-723-7307) if the issue persists.

 230.  Q:  Hello, I work with First International Bank and I need to get a form filled out to verify previous employment to a now discharged member. Can you please call me at xxx-xxx-xxx or email me who I can get in touch with? Thank you!

230.  A:  Thank you for your inquiry.  Someone will be contacting you directly to answer any specific questions.  In general, the DD Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, issued upon a military service member's retirement, separation, or discharge from active duty in the Armed Forces of the United States is used to verify a service member's previous service.

 228.  Q:  I am the  E/H & S Director of Tanzanite Inc.  I am a medically retired veteran who now is an authorized OSHA Outreach Instructor.   There is a gap in the transition center, where there is no ability to receive the proper safety training in order to have an advantage on the job market for Soldiers who are transitioning to civilian jobs. A Soldier with OSHA 10hr/30hr Course Cards, not only have an advantage on job placements however can negotiate pay increases, job titles, vacation time and better benefits. It is the difference between making $12.50 hr to making $19 hr.   I found the gap in the transition center and I set out to plug up the gap. I will be traveling around the country visiting each transition center and would like for your transition center to be the first stop. If the transition center would like to take advantage of this training and help our soldiers get an edge on the competition feel free to

228.  A:  Thank you for your interest in helping our service members transition with better credentials.  Someone from the base Safety Office will be in contact shortly to see if an arrangement can be made to offer this training to our transitioning service members.

 227.  Q:  Good Afternoon Sir or Ma’am,  I am reaching out on behalf of the company I work for RumbleOn.com to inform Minot Air Force base that, A1C XXX XXX has been a part of a fraudulent transaction and will not return the funds or furnish the vehicle purchased to our company. We purchased his 20Xx Dodge o vin #XXX on June 28, 2019. After we sent him the funds, he reached out to tell us he would like to back out of the transaction and insured us that we would receive our funds back. It has now been roughly 45 days since the purchase date and we have not received our funds back nor has the vehicle been furnished to us. We are asking for your assistance in this matter of retrieving our money back. We have all proper documentation to support the purchase and show that we funded him. Would someone be able to assist us in this matter at the base? I can provide all communication and documentation needed. Please ass

227.  A:  Thank you for bringing this to our attention.  We have contacted the appropriate personnel and they will be communicating with you shortly.

 223.  Q:  Please let me know who to talk to about donating a truck to a veteran or service man. 

223.  A:  We appreciate your thoughtfulness and have contacted the First Sergeant’s Council and they will be communicating with you shortly.

 226.  Hi,  I know you mostly receive complaints or concerns through “Ask Team Minot”, but I just wanted to say thank you for the urgency with which you addressed the Dakrat infestation. I have noticed a significant decrease in the number of rodents in and around my yard. I had started a small war with them and for the first time in weeks I haven’t had to flood their burrows. Again, thank you all for your hard work with this matter.

226. Thank you for the much appreciated feedback.  The team has been working very hard to manage the Richardson Ground Squirrel (AKA Dak-Rat) challenges here at Minot AFB.  It is a very difficult problem given this prolific nature of this North Dakota native species and the unique eco-system on base where they have no natural predators.  The four prong plan devised by the team (in working with Balfour Beatty Housing) was very comprehensive and well thought out.  We are very happy the plan is working and you are seeing a significant decrease in the number of rodents in and around your yard.  Your message has been passed along to everyone involved in this ongoing effort. Again, Thank you very much for your feedback.

.

 224.  Q:  Sir, I was just out visiting your base. I saw, at the front gate, the US flag at half staff. That is as it should be. However all the other flags are at full staff. It is my understanding that the US flag should never be flown lower than any other flags. Please let me know if I am mistaken. If I am not mistaken, thus reflects very poorly on your base, the Air Force, and the DoD.  Thank You.  R.P. USAF (Ret).

224.  A:  Thank you for the reminder of the rules of etiquette in the flying of our U.S. flag.  We will review the incident and ensure the appropriate organizations are advised regarding the details of flying the U.S. flag in a position of superior prominence on the installation.

 222.  Q:   I am looking to get information on my biological father. Name is John Sailors. He was in Air Force 1965/1966 (Minot, ND)

222.  A:  In the absence of a court order, the Privacy Act prohibits disclosure of agency records to individuals without the prior written consent of the individual to whom the record pertains.  Unless the request is for specific authorized reasons, such as law enforcement purposes or congressional investigations, etc. we are not authorized to release personal record information.  We recommend using public record sources.  

 221.  Q:  Why does the CDC constantly have a virus in every room?  At this point, strep throat has been prevalent for well over a month in the preschool room.  Just today a sign is posted warning of Mono as well as flu.  Isn't flu season over?  It is July. Are there not strict cleaning standards that are followed and are they not stricter when an outbreak occurs?  Why isn't the protocol when a child has a fever to remove them from the general population while awaiting their caregiver to pickup?  Why are the children who have the illnesses allowed to come back too soon, as is the case with MDG allowing things such as HFM to come back to daycare while still actively contagious.  Mission critical dictates not to knock out your entire workforce because of illness and contagious issues.  This question is directed at FSS, MSG, as well as med group.

221.  A:  Thank you for inquiring about seasonal influenza and the MDG’s role in assessing children for CDC attendance. As you know, assessing when a child is infectious can be difficult as some never show symptoms and some do not show symptoms well after they are contagious and have exposed others.  Compounding this is the fact that many diseases/illnesses present similar symptomology (headache, fever, upset stomach). In terms of influenza, while it is true that we are exiting what we consider flu season, it is always circulating somewhere in the world and with global travel/PCS season it is plausible that it could be imported. More likely though, is exposure to another virus or even gastroenteritis that has presented with flu like symptoms.  And finally a point of clarification, the MDG does not medically clear children to return to the CDC following a sickness, this is an internal process to Child and Youth Programs and is outlined in their operating instructions.

AFI 34-144 requires the Child and Youth Program to have a parent handbook that includes procedures for medical and health care needs of our children.  This handbook is reviewed and certified annually by the Air Force Services Center. 

The Minot AFB CDC Parent Handbook states the following in regards to signs of illness for children in our care: For the health and safety of your child and the other children in the center, please keep your child home if he/she shows signs of obvious illness, rashes, and/or fevers, etc. The CDC staff is instructed to observe for signs and symptoms of illness at all times, specifically prior to each child’s daily admission to the center. Children with fever (under 3 months old, 100.5; over 3 months, 101), diarrhea or vomiting, open, oozing or bleeding sores or rash, inability to participate in CDC activities or other signs of communicable disease will not be admitted. Parents are requested to notify the CDC if their child has contracted a communicable disease. If while at the CDC your child shows symptoms of a communicable disease, you will be called to pick up your child and your child may be moved into an isolation area until you arrive. Within one hour of notification, parents must pick up their child and will receive information on readmission.

The Child and Youth Programs have a very high cleaning standard in order to best protect our children’s immature immune systems from as many illnesses as possible, but all illness present in different ways and in different stages.  As an example, an illness may incubate in a seemingly healthy child who becomes recognizably ill the next day having allowed that child to contaminate others the previous day when they were not symptomatic.  Specifically, influenza can occur at any time of the year, but is most prevalent in the winter months. 

With the large number of children in care at the CDC, our providers & cleaning staff do an excellent job to keep illness at a minimum, but not all illnesses can be prevented, only contained and minimized to the greatest extent possible. 

Again thank you for the opportunity to answer your questions.        

 221.  Q:  How are we to dispose of old ABUs?

221.  A:  There are 3 options for getting rid of ABUs. 

 

1 - Dispose: you can throw them away, but it is highly recommended that all ranks and insignias are removed before doing so.  It is also advised to rip/cut them into shreds so they cannot be used for nefarious purposes.  Burning them is also an option

 

2 - Donate: you will need to remove all insignias from the uniform before going so.  Airmen's Attic on base is a good place to donate to.  Army/Navy surplus stores will also take old uniforms.  Local Civil Air Patrol and/or junior ROTC detachments often look for donations. 

 

3 - Repurpose: there are many ideas for repurposing of uniforms.  A few examples are hunting/paintballing.  They can also be turned into craft projects and Pintrest or other like websites have many ideas.

 220.  Q:  Please give me a phone number to contact someone for a reservation tonight at the Minot airbase FamCamp. XXX-XXX-XXXX

220.  A:  No response.  Individual was notified and information obtained.

 219.  Q:  I'm trying to buy a trailer from a XXX XXX who claims to be training there for deployment overseas. Does this person reside on your base? Thanks for your help and more importantly your service . XXX XXXX

219.  A:  Your inquiry is outside of our span of control as we do not engage in private transactions and are unable to verify information relative to such transactions.

 218.  Q:  Hi, my son XXX XXXX 5th maintenance, just deployed to Guam  Will I be able to get on base with or without a sponsor when he gets back?  I have been on base a couple of times and passed my security check both times.  thanks XXX  

218.  A:  All visitors to the installation you must have a sponsor who is a military ID card holder.  Visitors are required to obtain a base pass for the duration of their visit.   Base guests will need a REAL ID Act Compliant State issued driver's license as proof of identity.  For additional information, you can contact the Visitors Center at 723-2600.

 217.  Q:  What are the DFact hours of operations

217.  A:  The Dakota Inn Dining Facility is open:

Breakfast: 0600-0900

Lunch: 1030-1330

Dinner: 1630-1830

Weekends & Holidays: 0630-1830

 

The hours for all FSS facilities can be located at https://5thforcesupport.com/hours

 216.  Q:  My name is XXX XXX. My daughter is a part of the teen center/ keystone at the youth center. My daughter came home today with the most devastating news, Nick Moore and Stephanie Hazen are being relocated to different programs. Both of these people have gone above and beyond for all of the teens. They are outstanding leaders for our youth here on MAFB. With the uncertainty the military life brings to these kids, having a place that has stability is important. This abrupt change is coming at a very difficult time for the kids with the upcoming school year, losing friends to PCS season and just navigating through life as a military teen. I believe, if at all possible, these two members stay in their positions. If this move is inevitable I would appreciate the rationale behind it so I can explain to my daughter.  Very Respectfully, XXX

216.  A:  Thank you for the inquiry.  We are extremely proud of the accomplishments of both Nick and Stephanie in our Teen Program.  However, we have to balance the needs of our patrons and our staff and have assigned both leaders and those that have replaced them to new positions to enhance their personal and professional development.  Ms. McAlexander has provided excellent service as our Youth Sports Coordinator and throughout all the programs at the Youth Center.  Ms. McAlexander is not a new staff member and has had interactions with many of the teens enrolled in the program.  We are certain the Teen Program will continue to thrive under her leadership.

 215.  Q:  Hello, I would like to write to the 5th Bomb Wing and the 91st Missle Wing. Do they have physical mailing addresses?

215.  A:   Correspondence to Minot AFB can be mailed to the following address;  PSC 1000, Minot AFB, ND 58704.

 Q:  I am worried about my daughter I am unable to contact her.  This is unlike her someone please check on my her I am concerned my phone number is xxx-xxx-xxxx her DOB is x/x/19xx.

A: Due to Privacy Act mandates, we are unable to provide information on any members.  If this person is a member of the USAF at this installation we will reach out to their unit to conduct a wellness check and make them aware that their family would like to be contacted.

 Q:  I served my first 2 years in the Air Force Chaplains service, at Adair Air Force Station in Oregon.  One of the Chaplains I worked under was Waldemar H. Nelson.  After serving there, we closed the Air Force Station, and I was transferred to Hamilton Air Force Base in California.      I completely lost track of my favorite Chaplain Nelson.  He was a Protestant Chaplain.   Is there any way I can find out where he is, or if he is still alive?   Any help would be appreciated.

A:  Unfortunately we are unable to provide the whereabouts of Chaplain Nelson or any other service members.  The Air Force Historical Research Agency is the repository for Air Force historical documents, however, this is not a locator for individuals.   Due to the Privacy Act of 1974 and Personally Identifiable Information regulations, data regarding specific individuals cannot be provided in order to locate members who are currently in service or who previously served.

 Q:  Spoke with the visitor’s center about an advanced base eligibility check for two guests traveling from another state. They told us that they will not do a pre-check and we would have to wait until after the guests travel here.  However, online it clearly states we can do an advanced eligibility check for guests. Why is there differing answers? How do we verify that a guest can access base BEFORE they spend 24hrs traveling to Minot, if the visitor center is refusing to do a basic pre-check?  How can we resolve this issue to ensure guests traveling a long distance won't be turned away once they arrive?  Thank you

A:  Sorry, you were not helped and provided the wrong answer.  Yes, the 5 SFS Visitor’s Center will conduct pre-screening of visitors.  In order the conduct a pre-screening, the Visitors Center staff would need the Visitor’s full name, date of birth and social security number.  If the visitor is not a U.S. citizen they would need the Visitor’s passport number and country of issue, in addition to their full name and date of birth.

Visitor pre-screening can take 1 to 3 days depending on the work load of the section.  Once completed the only information that will be provided to the requestor is if the visitor would or would not be allowed on base.  No other information can be given.   Requests for pre-screening can be sent to 5SFSpr@us.af.mil, or you can call the Visitors Center at 723-2600.

 Q:  Is LE doing anything about people shooting fireworks on base tonight (July 4th)? It would be nice if people could follow the rules.

A:  No response.  No violations reported.

 Q:  Hi, I was stationed at Minot AFB From 2005-2009. I am trying to get ahold of the base historian to get information on the pride building, one of the most interesting buildings on base. However, I am having a difficult time tracking down the history of that building. Is there any resources online? Or anyway to get ahold of the base historian?

A:  Please find attached a document that gives a brief history of why Building 475, aka the Pride Building, was built and its early usage.  There is also a resource online at www.radomes.org

 Q:  Hey Guys, I’m a retired B-52 guy that was stationed at Minot back in 2000 - 2005. I was wondering if you guys or maybe the base historian might have any sort of archive of pics from that time period online?  I didn't take a lot of pics of my time out there and just wondering what I can find online and such.

A:  Thank you for contacting the Installation Historian's Office.  We would be pleased to provide you with some photos from the requested timeframe.  Please send me a CD-R disc (only type accepted) and a pre-paid, addressed mailer.  Upon receipt of these items I'll copy some pictures from the requested timeframe and mail to you. 

 Q:  Been stationed at Minot for about 18 months. The base gym has about 10 water fountains and only seen 2 that are “Green” for filter status. No work order visible and it was brought up with no response.

A:  Thanks for your question. 5 CES monitors all water fountains in the Fitness Center and has a preventive maintenance plan to ensure filters are replaced when necessary. It’s important to note the filter light on the water fountains is not an indication of water quality. Even when the light is red, the water is perfectly potable and safe to drink. The filter mainly serves to remove mineral deposits that could cause hard-water damage to the water fountain itself. We are aware of a couple issues with water fountains not working properly and have submitted work orders to 5 CES for repair.

 Q:  Where can I get a base map?

A:  Base maps can be obtained from the Airmen & Family Readiness Center, Bldg. 291.

 Q:   5th Usaaf Bomb Group, 31st Bombardment Squadron. Probably worn by Roger J. Tabshey.  Have has some information about him? Thanks a lot in advance

A:  The Installation Historian search all files within the 5th Bomb Wing History Office and found the following as an answer to your request for information related to Roger J. Tabshey. 

Roger J. Tabshey enlisted in the United States Army on 6 January 1943 in Hartford Connecticut. 

Following training, Corporal Tabshey was assigned as an aerial gunner to the 31st Bomb Squadron, 5th Bomb Group.  Tabshey was lost with his crew while returning from a combat mission on 10 January 1945.  The aircraft, a Consolidated B-24J, serial number 44-40572, nicknamed “Snow Job II”, disappeared following refueling at Leyte, Philippine Islands.

CPL Tabshey is memorialized on the Walls of the Missing, at the Manila American Cemetery, located in Taguig City, Philippines.  Information from this page https://www.abmc.gov/node/523323 shows CPL Tabshey earned the Purple Heart and Air Medal for his service.

 Q:  I need a way to reach the base commander, my airman spouse made false claims against me completely out of the blue today and she came to the house with police and took my child. Her name is XX XXX XXX she works xxxx.  I have no idea where my daughter is.

A:  Our first priority is the health and safety of our Member and your child.  All necessary supporting agencies are engaged and involved to ensure that happens with the best interests of everyone in mind.  The decision to remove your child this weekend was made with the consent of the Member under the advice of those supporting agencies to include law enforcement and legal.  On 24 June 19, a temporary restraining order was issued by Ward County with a subsequent court date scheduled for 3 July 19 to determine the next steps in this process.

 

You can be assured your wife and daughter are safe and being taken care of, however, at this time we do not have the authority to allow you to see your child nor do we have control over the process which will determine when a visit will be permissible.

 Q:  Looks like your boys did a flyby at GEG instead of Fairchild.  What happened????

A:  Sortie profiles, crew actions and crew intent are FOUO and not releasable.

 

 Q:  Hello, Is there any way to have the grass mowed in the dog park next to the North Plains Chapel? In its current state it is unusable and I'm concerned about ticks and other parasites. Thank you.

A:  Many years ago this area was an official dog park.  However, due to the unknown safety issues at this site, this area is no longer an official area for pets.  The designated dog park is next to the BBC offices, Bldg. 256.  Until the fencing is removed, we are unable to cut the grass growing around that area.

 Q:  My name is XX XXX. I am an EMT, as well as a Surgical Technologist. I have been collecting patches related to all aspects of EMS, Medical Ops., Rescue, Fire, and Law Enforcement. I would like to add your different relevant patches to my collection. Please respond to: XX XXX. Edison, NJ 08817. Thank you for your time and service. Take care and stay safe.

 A:  Thank you for contacting Team Minot.  Unfortunately the units will be unable to provide these patches.  Now that the Air Force has gone to the OCP uniforms, these items are controlled and only issued to unit members.

 Q:   Good morning, I was wondering who does the hiring for speakers for your Airmen who are detaching from service. I represent Moustafa Badawi, a successful business man and business and talent guide and I am sure that some of your folks would benefit from meeting with him. Please let me know. Thank you.

A:  Thank you for your inquiry.  Your information has been passed along to the Airmen & Family Readiness Center to possibly incorporate into our Transition Assistance Program.

 Q:  Is there an MFR or reference somewhere to the family days and holidays for 2019? Thank you!!!

A:  IAW AFGSC Memorandum dated 12 Sept 17, “For 2019:  24 May, 5 Jul, 30 Aug, 29 Nov, 24 Dec and 31 Dec.  These days coincide with Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s day.” 

 Q:  Hello, We are processing an employment application for Mxxx Wxxx. Mxxx listed that she was formerly employed with Minot Air Force Base and we need to verify her employment there.  Can you please let me know who I would need to contact to verify employment?

A:  For employment verification, you can reach our Civilian Personnel Office at 701-723-1986 or 701-723-2024.

 Q:  Good afternoon, I work for Maintenance Plus in Minot ND. We clean residential carpets on the base and have to be vouched on by our customers. I would like to know who I can contact to receive base passes for 5 employees that occasionally do work on the base.

A:  The member for whom you are doing work will need to sponsor you onto the base.  For each visit, base guests will need to provide social security number, date of birth and REAL ID Act Compliant State issued driver's license as proof of identity..

 Q:  Good afternoon, I’m having some pretty bad problems with these Dakrats around my house. There is poop on my porch and sidewalks, as well as in my patio area in the backyard. They are digging like crazy around our home. My dog seems to be helping keep them from digging in the fenced in area at least. I'm concerned about my kids getting into the poop or breaking a leg in these holes. Yesterday we were at the playground and i sat my baby on the side walk. I immediately noticed he had picked up a piece of Dakrat poop and was going to eat it. This is obviously unsanitary. If housing can't kill them, they should at least be responsible for keeping poop off of our playgrounds

A:  The BBC Facility Manager walked around your home and then did a visual inspection of the playground near your home.  BBC plans to fill any holes around the playground as well as those in your back yard.  The BBC landscape vendor will be inspecting the walking trails and playgrounds throughout the community weekly to clean off any ground squirrel feces found.

 Q:  Miss Norma Dasher claims to be at this base on specialized training and deployed in two weeks with her medical team to Syria.   Miss Dasher has posted an enclosed motorcycle trailer for sale, and I am trying to confirm that this is not a scam.  The only thing I have from her is an email address niormaa44d@gmail.com  Can you confir

A:  Thank you for contacting Team Minot with your concerns.  We do not engage in private transactions and are unable to verify information relative to such transactions.

  Q:  Hi, Thank you for the reply.  I would like some follow-up discussion about these issues and would love a direct reply from 5 FSS/CC or 5 MSG/CC about the second and third ones specifically. Issue 1:  you state, “If a parent wants to continue breastfeeding after 1 year, we will support that choice, but milk must be provided by the family.”  However, in my own personal experience with the CDC, I was unable to bring in breastmilk without a doctor’s note….specifically the doctors note was written to make my child eligible to even get breastmilk after age 1.  That, to me, does not signify supporting a parent’s decision.  In addition, there are complaints of the CDC making children in Vegan families drink cow’s milk…again, not a medical issue, but a parenting and lifestyle choice that should not require a doctor’s note.  Doctor’s notes should only be required for allergy a

A:  5 FSS/CC made direct contact with the Inquirer.  As mentioned in your Ask Team Minot response, the AF has numerous regulations and guidelines in regards to providing quality, affordable, and available childcare opportunities for all families.  While providing care in a group setting, the needs of every child and family are considered, however, all requests and parental choices can simply not be granted and fulfilled.  Medications are given at specific times throughout the day to ensure we do not miss any child’s medication.  Deviations from this can cause issues for all children in group care.  Concerning the sleeping issue, all children are given a place for quiet time during designated nap period.  Having one child not on a sleeping mat causes a disruption for all other children who are trying to nap. 

Group care is not a “one size fits all” solution and at times is not a viable option for some children and families.  Mr. Balas, the Child and Family Services Flight Chief, will be happy to meet with you to discuss your concerns. 

However, given the very specific needs of your family, a smaller, more tailored child care option, such as Family Child Care, might prove to be a better option and we are happy to discuss this option with you. 

 Q:  Is there a hotel/motel on base for visitors/parent of new arrivals and I'm sure there is a security process for entry. Reservations?

A:  We do have a Lodging Facility on Minot.  You can visit our website at https://5thforcesupport.com/activities/sakakaweainn/ , or call to make your reservation at 701-723-6161.  Priority will be given to active duty personnel and DoD personnel on official orders, and military retirees.  Visitors are required to obtain a base pass for the duration of their visit.   Base guests will need REAL ID Act Compliant State issued driver's license as proof of identity.

 Q:  Hi Sirs. I am looking for a contact number for bid work and projects at the base. Please email me at johnd.nd1@gmail.com. Or text

A:  Please contact the Small Business Professional, Angela Klein, at 701-723-4188 or send your company's capability statement to angela.klein@us.af.mil. Additionally, vendors can register to receive notices about Minot AFB requirements which are posted to Federal Business Opportunities at https://www.fbo.gov/. This is where vendors can search, monitor, and retrieve opportunities solicited by the entire Federal Contracting community.  Their state Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) and Association of Procurement Technical Assistance Centers (APTAC) provides assistance to vendors such as identifying and explaining contracting opportunities at federal, state and local Government levels. Moreover, they advise businesses how to find, pursue and manage Government contracts. Most of their services provided are free of charge or at a low-cost. The websites are www.ndptac.org and ndptac@und.edu for the North Dakota PTAC and APTAC. 

 Q:  What can housing residents do to cull the Dak Rat population? Firearms are obviously not allowed but what about pellet rifles or bow and arrows? They scare too easily for other methods and the housings response is less than suitable. Other methods such as poison or trapping also do not seem very humane. Thank you.

A:  Thank you for your inquiry as your concern is shared by many in our community.  We ask that any resident experience issue with ground squirrels contact the BBC Maintenance Team 701-727-9312 and a manager will meet with them at their home and assess the issue and provide options for them to combat the problem. 

Weapons Policy from Resident’s Guide reads…Residents and family members residing in the Home may possess and store privately owned weapons, which include firearms, crossbows, BB guns and pellet guns. All privately owned permitted weapons must be registered with the Installation’s Security Forces prior to bringing them into the Home. Use or firing of any weapons in the housing community is strictly prohibited. For information on firearms in family housing, contact the Installation’s Security Forces during duty hours.

We are continuing to work on an aggressive plan to reduce the population and will soon publish to housing residents.

 Q:  I would like to get in touch with Col. (ret) Doyle van Arsdal. He was stationed in Thailand in 1982-83. Could you please find out whether he is still alive?

A:  The Privacy Act prohibits disclosure of agency records to individuals without the prior written consent of the individual to whom the record pertains.  Unless the request is for specific authorized reasons, such as law enforcement purposes or congressional investigations, etc. we are not authorized to release personal record information.  We recommend using public record sources.  Thank you!

 Q:  Reply requested I submitted a doctor's note to the CDC and because of "HQ" guidance they are basically saying they can't do anything.  This is my third issue with the CDC regarding doctor's orders.  1st issue: my child was breast milk fed and required a doctor's note (rather than parents’ choice!) To keep him off of cow's milk until weaned.  This should, and ALWAYS should be the parents’ choice.  This policy is not in service of the children or the families. 2nd: my child has asthma type airways and allergies and requires nebulizer treatment, and often antibiotics when he catches infection.  The CDCs INTERNAL policy (i.e. not AFI driven, not mandated by HQ) is to only administer meds at 1000 and 1400.  No exception allowed!  I've asked several times to make exceptions or to change the internal policy to no avail.  This rigid and inflexible INTERNAL policy is not in s

.  A:  We will address each item that you have brought up a concern on. 

Issue 1:  We support all parents in the decision to breast feed and parents who chose to bring in human milk may do so.  We also have a designated area for breast feeding for parents to breast feed.  AF guidance states, “Cow’s milk must not be offered to children less than 1 year of age unless prescribed in writing by the child’s health care provider and approved by the installation CYP Medical Advisor.”  After the age of 1 year, our program provides cow’s milk unless we have medical documentation from a health care provider.  If a parent wants to continue breastfeeding after 1 year, we will support that choice, but milk must be provided by the family.  

Issue 2:  Our medication policies are AFI driven, and can be found in Chapter 6 of AFI 34-144.  Medication should be administered at home by parents/guardians, if possible.  During a typical 10-hour day of care, CYP personnel and FCC providers will administer medication as follows:  Once if medication is to be administered three times a day; Twice if medication is to be administered four times a day; If medication is to be administered one or two times a day, medication will not be administered in CYP (except for time sensitive medications). Not applicable for FCC children in extended care.  The first dose of medication must be administered by the parent/guardian. If the parent/guardian administers the first dose at the CYP/FCC home, they must wait for 20 minutes before leaving the program/home.  Medications are administered by the same person each day if possible.  If there are no explicit instructions from a medical professions for the medication to be administered at a specific time, we follow the 10 am and 2pm schedule to ensure medications are administered at properly spaced times for the safety of children. 

Issue 3:  AF Guidance states, “Rest time is relaxing and comfortable. Rocking, patting or soft music may be used to help children sleep. Children may rest when they are tired. Non-sleepers can have books and quiet toys to play with during rest time.  Youth should be allowed to move smoothly from one activity to another (usually at their own pace).”  Our programs upholds the Americans with Disabilities Act to ensure people with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else. The Inclusion Action Team, ensures reasonable accommodations are made to support the individual needs of children in care. AF Guidance states, “Due diligence and best efforts are required by all involved to consider possible modifications or adjustments that can reasonably be made to programs, staffing and/or facilities in order to accommodate a child or youth with disabilities or special needs. However, such accommodations should not fundamentally alter the nature of the service, program, or activity. If reasonable accommodations cannot be met, installations must consult with AFSVA/SVPY to explore additional alternate accommodations.”  We reached out to AFSVA/SVPY on this specific request and the response they provided is, “Honor the letter and provide the child with quiet activities during naptime. However, please let the parent know that staff will not force the child to stay awake. IF the child chooses to rest and/or falls asleep, they will be allowed to for the comfort of the child.”

Our programs are heavily regulated by the Department of Defense to ensure consistency and more importantly, the safety of all of the children in our care.  This is why so many parents preferred choice of care is with our providers, however we do understand our program is not a one size fits all solution and each family should consider their own situation to determine if alternative care would better suit their needs.

Thank you!

 Q:  Sir: I am sending this to respectfully request information on any civilian Security Position that may be open at your A.F.Base- The following is a list of my law Enforcement training and experience. 1. I was appointed a Ma.State Metropolitan District Comm.Police Patrol Officer. - ( This was a 600 men Ma.State roads and state Highways Patrol Police Dept.) - 2.I was a Security Officer for the U.S. Air Force In the State of New Hampshire.- 3.I have held a Top Secret Clearance. 4. I was appointed a Special Deputy U.S. Marshal. -5. I was appointed a Cert= Community Emergency Response Team Member. - First Responder- This was issued by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security - I was certified in CPR, A

A:  Thank you for your recent inquiry on vacancies at Minot AFB, ND.  We do not have any GS-0080 vacancies at this time.  Federal vacancies for Minot AFB and surrounding federal offices are posted on USAJOBS.org.  If any positions come available we will ensure the selecting official is aware of your interest, however selecting officials can only select applicants from the referral listing provided by the Air Force Personnel Center which is generated from the qualified applicants on USAJOBS.org.  We recommend you check often and use location filter "58705".  

 Q:  Every day I have had to clean a considerable amount of dakrat poop off my porch, sidewalk, driveway, and patio - all places my kids play.  I have heard dakrats can carry diseases and I do not want my kids near it or it getting tracked into the house.   I've talked to housing maintenance and was referred to base command, the state of North Dakota, HMO, and mission support. I contacted HMO and they said there was nothing they could do and said contact mission support.  I cannot find contact info for mission support. Other residents said to contact pest management.  Pest management referred me back to housing maintenance.  I found the following Ask Team Minot question/answer that addressed this issue.  From Balfour Beatty - Our pest control vendor ECOLABS was contacted by the State Environmental Protection Agency regarding their usage of pesticides to control Richardson Ground Squirrels (DakRats).  The EP

A:  Thank you for bringing this issue to our attention.  The BBC Facility Manager will meet with you today.  Since your home is near a fairly large green space area, BBC will have ECOLABS provide attention to that area to cut into the population.

 Q:  I was stationed at Minot from 1973 to 1977 as an ICBM LAUNCH OFFICER. I SERVED IN THE 742 ND AND 741’ST SQUADRONS.  I WOULD IF LIKE TO GET A 740TH SQUADRON PATCH.

A:  Thank you for contacting us.  The 740 MS/CC will be contacting you soon.

 Q:  I am a retiree and was wanting to know if there is a web site that shows outgoing flights from the base. Thanks Steve

A:  Thank you for the inquiry.  Please understand that flight schedules are For Official Use Only (FOUO) and are not published.  We are unaware of a website that publishes these schedules accessible to the public due to Operational Security concerns.

 Q:    I’m not sure if this is a question directed to you, but I’m new here and am unsure where I can take my recyclables on-base.

A:  Minot AFB currently does not have a recycling program.  The installation has reached out to local recyclers to evaluate potential interest in a recycling program on base.  We’ve found that the lack of a viable recycling capability in our area is limited due to local recyclers lacking the capability or are not interested in starting up a base program.  Balfour Beatty offers recycling for cardboard and other items.  The collection point is the parking lot of the Community Center on 256 Spruce Street.  Use of the service is limited to BBC residents only.

 

Please know that we are working with the City of Minot who is conducting a market analysis on a potential city-wide recycling program.  We are also working with local groups to solicit support for a recycling program at Minot AFB.

 Q:  Dear Markus I have been trying for years to locate my husband’s information.  So far with the information I have claim is we were divorced though there isn’t any records to be found everywhere searched. I am looking for the divorce decree certified records. Or any other information you can send on Xxxxx Xxxx. At that time his rank was E7, SSN # xxx-xx-xxxx DOB, xxx xx, 19xx for my personal records. It will be appreciated. Sadly within this year of learning how to find his information online is how I found him passing away. Not ever did he send any allotment checks or did I receive any GI benefits to raise two children. Although whatever records t

A: Please send your inquiry to markus.nehlsen.1@us.af.mil or call 701-723-1444.

 179.  Q:  I work for CommunityWorks North Dakota and we are doing a Rehab Mortgage for a gentleman that is employed with the AFB. And to complete the process I need to talk to someone in the HR Department just to verify the employment. Can I please get a phone number for the person that I need to talk too?

179.  A:  For employment verification, you can reach our Civilian Personnel Office at 701-723-1986 or 701-723-2024.

 177.  Q:  I need to provide a vendor the details for the tail art on the B-52, in order to place an order for a scale model of the B-52 to be sold at Military Clothing Sales at the Minot Exchange. I would need a photo or graphics for both the 5th BW and 23rd BS, which could be then sent on to my vendor. Please feel free to contact me at 701-723-3341 or 701-340-7309. Thank you in advance for your assistance.

177.  A:  Note:  Per AAFES, this is not a request from someone that wants to be a vendor. The original message came from the Military Clothing Store manager.  The Exchange has a vendor that sales desk models of the B-52G and H. The Exchange wants to bring these models into the store to sell.  We feel the models would make good gifts and sell better if the models were associated with the units actually here on Minot, instead of a generic plane with no or other markings.  They are just attempting to "personalize" the models.  

 175.  Q:  My family is interested in touring the Air Force Base. Our kids are age 5 through 12. Will we be able to bring kids this young? Also are tours only on specific days or any day? We will be in Minot the week of July 4.

175.  A:  Public Tours are listed on our website and they are the 3rd Wednesday of every month. Base guests will need to provide social security number, date of birth and REAL ID Act Compliant State issued driver's license as proof of identity.  For additional information and scheduling please visit our Public Affairs website at https://www.minot.af.mil/Contact-Us/Comm-Rel/ or call (701) 723-4702.

 174.  Q:  We cordially invite you and your team to the “11th Euro Global Conference on Infectious Diseases” scheduled on September 23-24, 2019 in London, UK with the theme “Improving the Implementation and Efficacy of Solutions to Control Infectious Diseases”.   Euro Infectious Diseases 2019 covers all the comprehensive sessions related to Infectious Diseases through cutting edge keynote talks, plenary and oral presentations, poster and young researcher forums, workshops and exhibitions. We invite you to submit your proposals for Symposia, Workshops and Organized Contributed Sessions or be a part of the conference as a Delegate. We aim to foster the interaction for a noble cause of bringing about a change in the society by exchanging their ideas and putting forth the causes and solutions to the effect of Infectious Diseases on a wide number of people worldwide. For More information:

170.  A.  Public Tours are listed on our website and they are the 3rd Wednesday of every month. Base guests will need to provide social security number, date of birth and REAL ID Act Compliant State issued driver's license as proof of identity.  For additional information and scheduling please visit our Public Affairs website at https://www.minot.af.mil/Contact-Us/Comm-Rel/ or call (701) 723-4702.

 168.  Q:   Under the freedom of Information act, can you tell me the tail number of the B-52H I photographed over the UK on Thursday 16th May. The call sign was MYTEE51.  I look forward to your reply.

168.  A.  Thank you for your interest.  Due to Operational Security we are unable to provide the requested information.

 166.  Q:  Heading west from the south gate to near Deterrence Drive the speed limit is 35 mph; however, heading east from around Deterrence Drive to the south gate the speed limit is 25 mph. Why the difference in speed limit?

166.  A.  Thank you for providing us an opportunity to review this issue.  The dual speed limits was in place to accommodate a past requirement. The new plan is to ensure the speed limit will be the same, 25 MPH, on both sides of the street.  The speed limit will be updated soon.

 155.  Q:  Good morning.  Just wanted to know the process of which Col Cochran deems it’s necessary for a 2 hr. delay/ base closure.  I feel like this is the 2nd time the notification was cutting it close for people who live off base and drive 30-40 minutes to work Thank you!

155.  A.   Thank You for your feedback.  Your concerns are consistent with the comments we received from others and therefore important to us.

 

We know that some of our folks live beyond the normal Minot City commute, and therefore we aim to make notifications between 0430 and 0500. However, due to the nature of the most recent storm and challenges with some of our notification systems...we made the decision and notifications as soon as possible.  Please accept our apology if we missed our mark this time, but please be assured that we continue to improve our processes.

 

As always, safety is a primary concern and we thank you for taking the time to provide feedback.

 148.  Q:  This refers to the section of Bomber Blvd between the south gate and Rail Road.  Why is the West bound traffic speed limit 35 mph while the East bound traffic speed limit is 25 mph? Very unusual to have two different speeds on the same section of road.

 

148.  A.  Thank you for providing us an opportunity to review this issue.  The dual speed limits was in place to accommodate a past requirement. The new plan is to ensure the speed limit will be the same, 25 MPH, on both sides of the street.  The speed limit will be updated soon.

 147.  Q:  Not even half way through April, and already 7 unfortunate team members lost at Minot. Really it is going to take a bit more recognition from command, when it comes to this base. And some of the harder AFSCs due to the location, including MX and Security Forces. Within that post, there are a lot of opinions of what could make things better for those that are experiencing hardship while at Minot. I will quote Gena Gilbert in her opinion of: "This base has NEVER officially acknowledged its remote, isolated location. The service and support system that should be available, the lack of rotation of manpower, the guarantee of an end date for a tour, all of those steps could improve morale and increase positive impact on the base. The command putting their heads in the sand on what the reality of their ops tempo in that environment with minimal support for the troops is the main reason this base has such a massive scale of depression in both active

147.  A.  First, thank you for concern for our fellow Airmen.  Please know our Airmen are our most precious resource and leadership at all levels is invested in their success, health, morale and quality of life.  The team works hard to recognize issues that affect our Airmen each and every day.   From frontline supervisors, to helping agencies, First Sergeants, Chiefs and Commanders we continue to look for ways strengthen the culture of Team Minot and the resiliency of our Airmen.  Some of our recent initiatives are opening of the TURF, Telemedicine, streamlined training, implementing Code-50 “mandatory mover” assignment status for our Defender population (currently looking at potential implementation for other career fields); use of “own it”/”You Matter” days to give our warriors additional time to rest, and a myriad of other programs like Task Force True North.   We can’t do this alone and I encourage you to bring your ideas forward to help us continue to grow.   The bottom-line is “You Matter!”

 136.  Q:  I recently contacted the Defense Commissary Agency about the matter detailed below. They have informed me that they do not provide oversight for this and that I should bring this concern to the installation commander. Please look into the following situation or refer me to the appropriate person(s).  I have been made aware that the Manager of Baggers at Minot AFB’s commissary has hired his own daughter. Apparently, not only was his daughter’s name placed on a lengthy waiting list of eligible candidates for employment as a bagger, but she was also given favorable treatment and moved from the bottom to the top of the list due to her relation. I do not work at the facility, but I am concerned about the ethics and illegality of this case of nepotism, should it prove to be true. I am also concerned about the example being set and the messages being conveyed to the adolescents that work there if we overlook this type of situation.

136.  A.  Thank you for bringing this to our attention.  The local AFGE Union President has discussed this issue with the Store Manager to ensure equity in the hiring process for baggers as outlined in the Hq DeCA policy.

 

Q:  I recently contacted the Defense Commissary Agency about the matter detailed below. They have informed me that they do not provide oversight for this and that I should bring this concern to the installation commander. Please look into the following situation or refer me to the appropriate person(s). I have been made aware that the Manager of Baggers at Minot AFB’s commissary has hired his own daughter. Apparently, not only was his daughter’s name placed on a lengthy waiting list of eligible candidates for employment as a bagger, but she was also given favorable treatment and moved from the bottom to the top of the list due to her relation. I do not work at the facility, but I am concerned about the ethics and illegality of this case of nepotism, should it prove to be true. I am also concerned about the example being set and the messages being conveyed to the adolescents that work there if we overlook this type of situation. Please look

A.  Thank you for bringing this to our attention.  The local AFGE Union President has discussed this issue with the Store Manager to ensure equity in the hiring process for baggers as outlined in the Hq DeCA policy.

 

Is there a way to get a copy of any and all of my TDY's and deployments out of Minot AFB from 1983 to 1991?  If not available at the Wing level, can you point me in the right direction?  I was deployed to Seeb, Oman in January of 1991 through March of 1991.  I had several other temporary duties throughout and would like copies.

You will soon be contacted directly.  For anyone wishing to obtain copies of military records can be found on the VA's e-benefits website:  ebenefits.va.gov.  Members will have to register to access the system. 

 

How do we go about getting approval to visit your base?

Thanks for contacting us.  In order to access Minot Air Force Base, an active duty military member or spouse must be your sponsor.  In addition, you will need a REAL ID Act compliant identification, and must pass a background check.

 

I have been looking for all records of XXX DOB !0/27/1955 for years. I am aware of him transferring to Travis AFB though on his death certificate states we were divorced. Not true as I have researched and have documentation. X and I were married. May 1st 1975 was the date. if at all is there any way to receive all records on him being E7 rank there it will be very much appreciated. Thank you and have a nice day

You may reach out to our Casualty Assistance Representative and Survivor Benefit Counselor, at (701) 723-1444.  They will require additional information and will be able to provide you guidance

 

 I am with Dakota Air Parts Int'l Inc.  We support the UH-1 platforms and operate from the domain UH-1.com. I was wondering if you could direct me the correct point of contact that supports the maintenance and purchasing of spares for the UH-1N helicopters.

The 582 HG will only use vendors when parts cannot be obtained through DoD channels. These purchases must be approved through AFGSC, the Weapons System Team, and the System Program Office. Although M1 Support Services Site Leads are encouraged to find solutions to supply deficiencies, the approval authority to procure parts from local vendors comes from the 582 HG/MXO or Contracting Officer's Representative at the lowest level. Please contact the Maintenance Superintendent for questions at commercial number (307) 773-1825.

 

Do you offer tours of the base to tourists?  We are coming to the states at the beginning of July and would like to tour the base if possible.  Many thanks. 

Tour information can be obtained from the Public Affairs office at v35bw.pa@us.af.mil  or (701) 723-4702

 

Can you help with a sponsorship/donation/loan of an aircraft for display into my museum?  At least point me to people who can help. I want the people to see something new, never seen before in my country. Thank you.

Thank you for your interest in USAF assets for your display.  These types of requests are best addressed through the National Museum of the Air Force Exchange Program.  The contact for that office is NationalMuseum.Workflow@us.af.mil

 

I lost my wallet with my military ID card. I have contacted ARPC and received a letter for Minot AFB to issue a CAC card. I was curious who to contact about this, and what will be required--both for getting on base and to get my ID.   I am a HPSP student and I am currently in Minot completing medical school through UND.

In this situation, the MPF will require the letter from AFPC along with 2 forms of current ID (eg: a driver's license or student ID, and SSN card).  In order to get onto the installation, as long as the CAC is registered in the system, a member can sponsor themselves on base as long as they have some form of ID verifying a member's identity.  If no form of ID is available, someone will be required to sponsor the member on base to obtain a new ID.  (Note:  the individual was directly contacted)

 

What is the policy for motorcycle riders wearing motorcycle club vests with patches while in uniform?  PPE should not violate the appearance of professionalism and promoting an unofficial function especially on base.

There is no official Minot AFB policy for what is permitted on personal protective equipment while riding a motorcycle in uniform.  However, AFI 36-2903 and the AFGSC Supplement discuss that logos and morale name tags must be in good taste and reflect proper military order, discipline, morale, and image. 

Since the military uniform alone does not meet motorcycle safety standards, i.e. bright colors for day and reflective for night, PPE is required and includes, but not limited to, a variety of devices and garments such as goggles, coveralls, gloves, vests, earplugs, and respirators.  As long as the PPE is serviceable it should be good to go.  Although the guidance does not specifically address PPE, members can wear club vests, etc. as part of their protective gear and should be worn over the uniform and/or jacket.  Across the defense department rules are basically the same whereas patches, colors, signs, insignia, etc. must be in good taste; are not among those frowned upon by the Armed Forces; are not contrary to any community’s welfare and existence; are not affiliated with criminal street gangs, extremist crime groups, or organizations; do not promote illicit or immoral activities; and are not morally offensive.  Such behavior or support thereof is a violation of multiple UCMJ articles.

 

To Minot Leadership, I would like to bring to your attention the severely outdated BBC policy that only allows the military member to be listed as the lease holder for base housing.  I understand they are a private organization, however this seems to be a holdover from previous generations that did not value military spouses.  Without my name, as the dependent on the lease as co-lease holder, I now have to jump through hoops to obtain a POA less than a week before our final out, so I can sign us out. BBC is a company that is paid by the military to serve us and therefore should support the same values that the military touts.  Recently the Air Force has made great strides to see that dependent family members are treated as more than merely dependents.  It would be helpful if the Air Force assisted BBC in re-writing their policies so that spouses are treated equally to the military member.  When I rent off base or purchase a home, both of our names goes on th

We understand the inconvenience but BBC adheres to policies established by the USAF. The reason BBC requires the presence of the military member or a POA to clear out of privatized housing is because it involves the members BAH.  When the military member moved in they signed a form authorizing their BAH to be sent to BBC through MAC (the third party government billing agency).  When they move out they sign to stop that transfer.  Processing of a military member's government finances requires the presence of the military member or an authorized POA because they alone are responsible for changes to their financial information.  It is routine for BBC to brief the member on this requirement when they receive a 30 day notice to vacate a property and then once again at the pre-move out inspection.  This duplicate notification is done to ensure the member has sufficient time to process a POA through legal should it be required.  Off base leasing is different, because the member pays their rent directly to a property management company where there is no third party government agency involved.  Even if the member sets up an allotment from their government check to the property management company, the military member or an authorized POA is still the only way to start or stop an allotment regardless as to which names are on the lease.  Off base, the names on the lease determine who can be held liable for payments, damages, etc.

 

I have a little dog she needs to have a checkup and will not eat.

Thank you for contacting Ask Team Minot.  Military personnel and their dependents can utilize Veterinary Services at Minot AFB and can be contacted at (701) 723-6449.  All other personnel will need to obtain services from local veterinary clinics.

 Why are UDMs so stingy with initial cold weather gear/replacement gear?  Instead of asking for ideas at the end of the year spending budget if units need TVs, chairs, morale items.  Stock up on items like cold weather gear to provide physical protection for those who work in the elements.  Body Armor has contracts with several MAJCOMs, a simple one time individual issue of 4.0 cold weather under Armor will provide more than adequate lifesaving protection.  Like most gear, if you abuse it, you buy your next set.  Honestly, it’s cheaper in bulk than what they actually provided for initial issue so called cold weather gear.  It’s been addressed before.  Shame that Amn spend their own money for quality cold weather gear in such harsh environments.  I’ve had better gear issued in Florida versus what they issue here.
The Wing does purchase cold weather gear in bulk and we also do individual purchases depending on the needs of the Squadron.  The 5 BW is initially funded for about half of our requirement at the beginning of the fiscal year and we cover the rest with an end of year requirement.  From a Wing perspective, cold weather gear is something that is fully funded every year.  Squadron’s purchase the gear with appropriated funds so I would expect good stewardship with the issue of the gear to ensure we are not wasting the tax payers money.  
 
Each Squadron is responsible for the specific development and execution of their cold weather gear requirement.  If Airmen are not getting the right gear, money is not the issue.  Those Airmen need to address with their Squadron leadership and resource advisor to adjust their Squadron cold weather gear requirement to better meet their specific mission requirement.    
 

Q:  My last several bases have had a program at the MDG pharmacy that allows members to sign for and receive up to three commonly used over the counter medicines such as cold medicines, Ibuprofen or cough suppressant’s. The program was an innovative way to help people self treat with minor colds or alignments and eased the appointment burden on MDG staff thus saving money. Is this something that can be adopted for Minot?

A.  Thank you for the question.The MDG has been assessing the need for an over the counter or OTC program for several months now and are in the midst of final review. While in theory an OTC program seems to be a win-win for the installation there are some factors to consider before summarily approving a program. Some of them include increased pharmacy wait times for beneficiaries waiting on prescriptions as well as the added financial costs to the clinic and tax payers for items that are not a Tricare benefit (interestingly these items are often less expensive at our local Commissary and BX). Again thank you for the question and rest assured the MDG will consider all the factors when coming to a OTC program conclusion.

UPDATED RESPONSE (1 May 19): Thank you for the opportunity to follow-up with you in regards to starting an over-the-counter (OTC) program. As previously reported, the 5th Medical Group researched the feasibility of implementing a OTC program and has determined that it is not in the best interest of team Minot at this time. In researching the program, we looked not only at cost but also impact to pharmacy operations and current prescription wait times. More specifically, the federal regulations that govern pharmacy operations and requirements related to prescription dispensing also apply to OTC medications. Additionally, because OTC processing would require paper prescriptions, it is estimated that there would be a 3 fold increase in processing time for these items. This in turn would adversely affect wait times for patients needing prescription drugs. As a reminder these items are still available by prescription through your PCM or self-purchase at the BX and commissary.  Again thank you for reaching out and allowing us to research your request."
 

 

I would love some more information about how to get my youth son involved in the cadet program.

 What are the operating hours of the North Gate?
At this time there are no standard operating hours for the North Gate as it is only used for contingency and mission specific purposes.
 

Why are the bathrooms at Bud Ebert park locked?  It is my understanding they should be accessible.

As soon as night time temperatures are sustained above freezing, the water will be turned on, at which time the bathrooms can be safely opened for public use.  Thank you!

 

Concerning the visitors center, am I allowed to sign in someone that’s 17 ?

Visitors Under 18 years of age must produce a recognized government or state ID. If the underage visitor does not have a recognized government or state ID, parents/legal guardians may provide a school record or report card, day care or nursery school record, or original or certified birth certificate for the purpose of identity proofing the underage visitor. No additional supplemental documents are required. If identity records or a valid ID is not available, the underage visitor must be escorted by a parent or be sponsored by a military ID card holder (AD, Ret, Dependent).

During the hours of 0600 through 2200, when the sponsor is not present at the Visitors Center the sponsor may sponsor guests onto the installation once identity proofed by the Visitors Center (VCC) personnel. VCC personnel will verify the sponsor’s identity by asking the sponsor part of their social security number or their date of birth and comparing the response to the Alpha roster or information contained in DBIDS.

Between 2200 and 0600 sponsors must physically meet their guest at the VCC where they will be identity proofed before a base pass is issued to their guest. After 2400 the sponsor must be 18 or older to meet their guest at the VCC; the only exception is when the spouse of a military member is under 18 years of age.

Dormitory sponsors. If the sponsor resides in a dorm, the visitor must follow dormitory visitation rules established by the Centralized Dorm Manager (CDM) Superintendent.

If you have any additional questions please contact us at (701) 723-4809.

 

Why is it that when a member is pcsing and they have a last minute problem arise that the TLF feels the need to rip you off when asking for a one hour extension on check out? Charging the FULL days rate of $77 is absolutely absurd. 

We apologize for any inconvenience and that you feel as though you were "ripped off."  AF Lodging regulates our lodging rates and check out times.  These practice generally mirror the commercial hotel industry, but at a much lower rate.  Upon request, we allow customers to check out as late as 1200.  Late check outs are approved by the Lodging Manager based on incoming reservations and the ability for the Lodging Staff to be able to adequately clean the room for our incoming guests.  If we cannot accommodate an incoming guest's reservation due to an occupant's late check out, another family is inconvenienced and the room goes unfilled

 

I am wanting to bring to your attention an ongoing concern that I have been experiencing and witnessing with Balfour Beatty.  This particular issue of concern is regarding the installation of the new vinyl windows in our base house.  In February, Balfour Maintenance called and scheduled the installation for Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday March 18-20, 2019 with their contractor Custom Quality Builders.  On multiple occasions, I inquired with Balfour Maintenance about what I could expect during the installation, or if I needed to move any furniture for the workers, etc.  I was left with questions unanswered and told that they didn't know anything because the work was being done by contractors.  

On the first day of window installation, a random white van arrived at my house with two random guys.  I was sure hoping they were the window installers.  It would have been better if a Balfour representative escorted them to my house for th

As a result of your inquiry, BBC became aware that their vendors were not re-installing blinds in the windows of homes they were replacing with new vinyl windows.  They have contacted the concerned residents to address the window installation plan and have also published information to the community regarding the schedule and procedures for installation of the new windows.  The vendors knew the old blinds would not be an accurate fit in the new vinyl windows and opted not to reinstall.  This was not a good option for some residents since a few had windows that did not allow complete privacy.  These residents can have the old blinds installed until the arrival of the new blinds.  BBC intended to install the new cordless blinds as soon as they arrive which was a little later than the actual window installment schedule.   Thank you again and please continue to let us know how we can improve our support of our awesome community and residents.

 

When will there be a motorcycle safety briefing for AF personnel motorcycle riders?

Each unit has a designated Motorcycle Safety Representative.  We will be training a new group of instructors at the beginning of May.  Each MSR has the stick for their squadron and can facilitate the individual request for initial or recurring training.  The MSR has a link to the training sign up and any required information.  They should be tracking dates and letting members know if they are due for training.  It's incumbent upon the member to self-identify as a rider to make sure we know.  Military members should not be riding without the training. All PPE and training requirements are outlined in AFI 91-207, Para 4.4 and subsequent blocks.

 

I have been meaning to call and address this issue for some time now, every time going through the main gate, but couldn't find a phone number.  There is a serious lack of professional courtesy, no ma'am, no sir.   Whenever I think back to how sharp our main gate security forces not only looked; crisp uniforms, but behaved, before it was necessary to contract out security, I'm dismayed at the degradation in professionalism.  These young personnel could do so much better.   Thank-you.

This scenario does not depict the caliber of men and women assigned to the 5th Security Forces Squadron.  A perception of the entire installation rests with the professionalism exhibited from all Installation Entry Control Points and any deviation from established expectations will be immediately addressed, corrected and reinforced. We appreciate your feedback to ensure our personnel display the critical attributes of "Only the Best Come North".  Thanks.

 

Are 4 wheelers allowed on base at all?

Yes, 4-wheelers are authorized on the road ways on base.  This is covered in MAFBI 31-116, paragraph 4.8, which right now is in works to be published.

 

Good morning.  I am trying to get information on what my staff will need to provide when vouching on base for blood drives.  I know the rules have changed. Please contact me at 701XXXXXXX.  Thank you!

Please contact Mr. Leslie Smith, (701) 723-4341   

 

Me and my parents have been trying to contact my brother for almost 3 months now. It's not normal to not hear from him for this long, we usually speak to him once a week. His name is XXX XXX, d.o.b- X-XX-19XX

If this person is a member of the USAF we will reach out to their current unit to conduct a wellness check and make them aware that their family would like to be contacted.

 

Will there be a Mud Run this year?  My grandkids love it and look forward to it when they come to visit!

This year's program has not yet been scheduled, but we are looking at holding the event again.  You can find details on all of our events at https://5thforcesupport.com/ or follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/5thForceSupport/

 

Is the Fiancé Form a true and legal document required for couples to be engaged used in the military or all of them Fiancé Forms a scam.

The Fiancé Form is not an official document.

 

First, I would like to thank all of the medical professionals and staff at the clinic. THANK YOU for all you do to take care of Minot families.

Second, I would like to request that the clinic consider developing a better plan for providing excused school absences when children are sick and cannot attend school. It seems unreasonable to take a child into the clinic when they are sick with a cold or virus to just obtain a school excuse. Colds and viruses just need to run their course and taking a child into the clinic when sick with these ailments usually does not result in any treatment given by the doctors. The children just need to stay home from school until they are well again and not take up appointment times with medical providers that could be utilized by pediatric patients that really do need treatment

For instance, my child woke on Monday morning with cold symptoms and a fever. The school district requires that children not attend school with a fever and

Thank you for taking the time to reach out to us.  We value and welcome any ideas that may help us improve our programs and processes.  Minot Public Schools does not have a policy that requires a family to obtain a doctor’s note for the absence to be considered excused.  Minot Public School Assistant Superintendent will reiterate to all of the MPS Principals at their next meeting that no one, to include building/attendance secretaries, should be asking families for doctor’s notes pertaining to absences.  The only exception to this is if the school administration has a concern about repeated truancy that has led to the child/family being entered in the Stay in School Program.

We agree, we do not want to bring a patient in to be seen unnecessarily.  At any time a parent can call the appointment line to place a telephone consultation or send a secure message, via Tri-Care online, to the Primary Care Team. In these situations the team nurse will triage the patient’s symptoms and if it is deemed based on symptoms that an appointment in clinic is not needed, then home care instructions will be given, and a school excuse note can be provided for parent to pick up at front desk or sent via secure message.  If a child continues to be sick after a certain amount of days or there is a change in initial symptoms, then the provider may ask to see them in clinic to ensure proper treatment.  Hopefully this clears up the process.  Again, thank you for your time

 

Is there a Minot Sup to the 36-2903?  I’m unable to find anything on EPubs.

Thank you for your inquiry, however, there is not a Minot AFB Supplement to AFI 36-2903. 

 

 

As a Base Resident, is there a proper way to dispose of a household appliance that is broken, like a washer, dryer, toaster oven or deep freezer?

 

I actually have an item I want to properly dispose of and have been given substandard answers.

I was under the impression that the Residential Bulk Trash pick up was to include large bulky items.  Apparently, not appliances.  Of course, I have contacted Balfour Beatty Housing Office. They suggested calling the City Landfill. I did call the City Landfill and it sounds like anyone whether they live in the city or on the base can take items to the landfill for disposal for a fee depending on the item.  Plus, there is the question of how to safely transport any large bulky appliance the 20 miles for disposal.

I have seen a dryer left after Bulk Trash pick up just this past week & even a dryer dumped next to a building dumpsters.  The quantity of random trash appliances impr

You’re correct – the bulk trash pick-up service in housing does not include large appliances. Every housing resident is responsible for disposing of personal appliances off base. The Minot landfill is located 1 mile west of Valley Marine on 20th Ave SW (back behind Kohls and JL Beers). Unfortunately, that does mean finding a way to transport it to the landfill yourself. You can find more about the landfill hours and operations on it’s website (www.minotnd.org/288/Landfill).

 

Q:  Good afternoon, how do I get help with my taxes on base?

 A. The Judge Advocate supports active, dependents and civil servants who work on Minot AFB.  Contact (701) 723-3026 to schedule an appointment.

 

Q:  What are the rules and regulations regarding skateboarding on base?

A.  Wear a helmet and recommend using other PPE as prescribed by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (recommend knee & elbow pads). Direct wording per AFI 91-207 (16 Feb 2017): 3.7.5. Non-motorized transportation devices not meeting DOT motor vehicle standards are prohibited on installation roadways and will comply with all pedestrian-related traffic laws. (T-0) 3.7.5.1. An approved helmet is required to be worn on AF installations. (T-2) 3.7.5.2. Additional PPE requirements should follow United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, manufacturer instructions and be included in the installation traffic code. 3.7.6. The use of portable headphones, earphones, cellular phones, or other listening and entertainment devices (other than hearing aids) while walking, jogging, running, bicycling, skating or skateboarding on roadways is prohibited. (T-0) Use of listening devices impairs recognition of emergency signals, alarms, announcements, approaching vehicles, human speech, and outside noise in general.

 

Q:  Is there anywhere on base that I can print passport pictures, and is there anywhere on base that does fingerprint cards?

A.  We do not currently offer either of these services for personal use, in other words photos for tourist passports or a fingerprint card you could take with you.  The best place to get this done is the U.S. Post Office in Minot at 117 5th Ave SW.  Passport services are only offered Monday – Friday 10 am to 3 pm.  Appointments can be scheduled via their website at https://tools.usps.com

 

Q:  GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab - Posted in Facebook.  I inquired about ad posted in Lakeland Fl through Facebook Marketplace and seller states that vehicle is located at the base when that is not the information posted on the ad. My question to you is, is this a real seller or something that I should have a red flag as it seems to me kind of strange.  This is her reply.  I attached photos and will do my best to walk you through process, I'm here in Minot, North Dakota, at the Air Force Base. The truck is already at the eBay warehouse here in Minot along with all the paperwork and the transaction will be done through them. eBay will handle the shipping, the payment, and the paper exchange. The truck is ready to be delivered to your place. I think I can have it there at your home address within 2-3 working days.

 

A.  Thank you for contacting Team Minot with your concerns.  We do not engage in private transactions and are unable to verify information relative to such transactions.

 

Q: I was stationed at Minot from May '95- Aug '98 in the 5th Operation Support Squadron, Airfield Management (Base Ops) section. I have been trying to obtain a 5th OSS Excalibur patch for the past year by looking online, and sending a message on the squadron Facebook page, without success.  Is there any way I could purchase one?  I reside in Wisconsin now and am not able to drive to the base.  I would also cover any shipping costs.  I would greatly appreciate any assistance.  Thank you. 

A.  Thank you for your service.  We have contacted the appropriate Squadron to fulfill your request.  They will be in contact with you soon.

 

Q:  Good evening, I'm a former Marine, and this struck me as something you might want to be aware of.  Hopefully this is a current Airman on your base, with good intentions, but sometimes something is too good to be true. Please see the copied response from my interaction concerning the posted sale of a 2017 enclosed trailer on facebook, posted for $800. Let's be frank, the transportation to Indiana would be $800 alone, not including the cost of this trailer.  I'm more upset they are using the armed forces as an excuse to commit fraud. Let me know if you need anything else, Semper Fi,

A.  Thank you for your concern.  We will investigate as appropriate.

 

Q:  Hello, I was wondering, what kind of pocket knives are allowed to be kept in the dorms? Thank you.

A.  You are allowed a knife as long as the blade does not exceed 3.5 inches. IAW the Unaccompanied Housing Resident Brochure para. 5.3.2.

 

Q:  I was in Minot a couple of years ago and was denied entry due to a background check.  I need information on a form to request permission to enter. Please any information is appreciated as my daughter is there with my son-in-law and are expecting a child late April.

A.  Please have your daughter or son-in-law get the application from the Visitor Control Center and fill it out for submission to see if you will be allowed base access after a current background check is conducted.  The Security Forces personnel will be able to make a determination once your information is received.

 

Q:  Hello, I'm looking for the correct point of contact to share career opportunities for my company, Camping World, with transitioning service members and their families. We currently share openings with various installations nationwide and would love to include Minot AFB on future communications.

A.  Thank you for your contact information.  It has been sent to the Airmen & Family Readiness Center for use during the Transition Assistance Program.  For additional information please contact their office at (701) 453-3950 at the A&FRC email:  5fss.family.support@us.af.mil

 

Q: Hey, Can something be put into having notifications sent out on whether it’s a drill exercise or a lockdown as many homes cannot hear the sirens let alone the speakers when they are announced?

A. Thanks for submitting your inquiry relative to Team Minot's Giant Voice system operations.  Several towers and associated speaker stacks are currently and strategically placed throughout the base housing complex.  Some years ago, acoustical engineers designed the system to ensure that Giant Voice messaging overlaps across the residential community--all to ensure maximum coverage.  In select instances, weather conditions (i.e., wind, heavy rain, extreme cold temperatures, etc.) have the propensity to create voice and tone irregularities.  As part of a planned initiative, the 5th Communications Squadron will perform measures to complete a periodic maintenance inspection in the coming months which further galvanizes future Giant Voice operations. From a courtesy notice perspective, the Public Affairs (PA) team tirelessly strives to provide the highest level of situational awareness for Team Minot; however, during certain mission-oriented activities, PA does not receive select messages that transmit over Giant Voice--all in the spirit of maintaining operational security imperatives. Again, thanks for the inquiry and we trust that future Giant Voice notifications will serve as a favorable experience.       

 

Q:  Good Morning! I am contacting you from Be a Hero - Hire a Hero. The purpose of our organization is to help our heroes find employment after they have served our country.

If you feel so inclined, I would greatly appreciate if you would pass on this information to anyone that you feel would be a good fit.

Job Description:  The Cardiovascular Sales Associate (CSA) is an entry-level sales position within the Cardiovascular - Business Unit of Pharmaceutical Corporation, accountable for implementing the commercial strategy for the Heart Failure (HF) product(s) for those key-targeted specialists and assigned hospitals within an assigned territory.  The CSA is part of a high-performing area sales team consisting of Cardiovascular Sales Specialists (CSS), Hospital Account Sales Specialists (HAS), and Managed Markets and Market Access (MM & MA) colleagues.  The CSA will drive (post FDA approval) utilization for assigned HF produ

A.  Thank you for your position information. The position has been sent to leadership in the 5th Medical Group and to the Airmen & Family Readiness Center for use during the Transition Assistance Program.

 

Q:  Do quiet hours apply to the snowplows in the lodging parking lot? It's like someone is sitting in front of my house at 0430 blowing their horn for an hour. I would understand 0530 but this is ongoing, right by housing, and many of us have children who are impacted by this. I am sure lodging customers don't appreciate it either. Don't get me wrong, I am grateful for the service they provide but we all need to be functioning people in the world, and I am certain morale and readiness is our main goal so we continue to be "the best that come North" and not "the tired that came North". Thank you for your time!  

A. Thank you for your inquiry. The 5 CES snow team performs snow removal 24 hours a day, 7 days a week throughout the winter months to ensure the installation is as safe as possible for Team Minot operations. It’s often essential to use night hours to perform snow removal in some areas, as that is often the only time many parking lots across base are clear of vehicles. It is much safer and more efficient to clear parking lots when they are empty. It’s also the only time we’re able to focus on those areas, as the flightline and main thoroughfares often consume our available manpower during significant snow events. Even though we have not received a significant snow event in a few weeks, we also try to regularly clear areas to prevent drifting snow, as well as clear piles of snow from building up as we expect more snow to be on the way soon. We do try to minimize nighttime snow removal by the housing and lodging areas whenever possible. However, the noise you heard last week by the JDC was our preparation for the Chief’s Recognition Event Friday evening. Moving forward, we will endeavor to minimize late night snow operations near housing whenever possible, but operational requirements will always take priority.

 

Q:  Hello, I am looking for information on participating in job fairs at your location or nearby to recruit for our Nuclear Materials Courier positions here at the (US/DOE/NNSA/OST) Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security Administration, Office of Secure Transportation. Please contact me at the number below or email me with details of how we can attend the next job fair or make a visit to inform you of our job opportunities.

 A.  Thank you for your inquiry. The Minot Airmen & Family Readiness Center offers potential employers the opportunity to meet with our students going through the Transition Assistance Program. Students are briefed there are potential employers across the hall from the classroom and are afforded time during class to meet with the participating recruiters/companies if they so choose. Someone from the Airmen & Family Readiness Center will be in contact with you shortly with specific details on upcoming opportunities.

 

Q:  Is cola possible to have again? Living on base, the commissary and bx has some basic items Having to drive 30 minutes into town is not only time consuming but gas isn’t cheap!  Thanks!

A. CONUS COLA is a program that is not controlled by the Air Force, the Defense Travel Management Office runs the program for the entire DoD.  Minot AFB's non-housing related costs do not exceeded 8% of the US average therefore we will not be receiving CONUS COLA anytime soon.  Please reference the attached CONUS COLA Fact Sheet and for more information visit:  https://www.defensetravel.dod.mil/site/conus.cfm

 

Q:  I am writing from the North Dakota Public Service Commission asking if I can get contact names (and email addresses) for staff at the Minot AFB to receive Notices and Orders for Siting, Electric, and Gas projects.  I did have two names on the mailing list of Sam - and Jason -.  A number of months ago I did receive an email from Mr. Sam stating that he was no longer stationed at the Minot AFB, but have been sending them to Mr. Jason.  However, the emails sent to Jason come back as unable to deliver.

Can you please provide contact information so that I can continue to send the Notices and Orders to the base in Minot? Thank you in advance for your time.

A.  We are sorry for the inconvenience, please find the names and email addresses of the staff that we would like to receive notices from your office. Please contact our office at (701)723-4871 if you need further assistance.

 

Q:  Hello, I am the local Tricare Moms representative for Minot AFB and the surrounding area. Tricare Moms is a division of Barber DME, a medical supply company that helps families with Tricare get breast pumps and breastfeeding supplies.  I would like to be able to send a packet of information to the right department and also in the future be able to meet with moms at on a monthly basis at a convenient location on base.  I have a current ID and am able to get on base.  If you can help me or direct me to whom I can talk to, I would appreciate it.

A.  Your inquiry is related to Tricare benefit, therefore please contact the 5th Medical Support Squadron commander. (Information redacted, please contact 5th Bomb Wing Public Affairs if the contact name is needed.)

 

Q:  I am trying to address a financial issue relating to my wife's service at this base around the last decade. Where can I get contact information for the base finance unit to get records from that time?

A:   The member will need to contact our Finance service office at (701) 723-2468. Anyone other than the member will require a power of attorney to obtain information and/or records of our members, both current and former.

 

Q:  Last fall, (redacted) requested information about starting a Toastmasters club at the MAFB. I attempted to contact him via email and phone, but never received a response. I would love to visit with someone about the Toastmasters program and how it could benefit personnel on base. Thank you.

A:  Thank you for your inquiry regarding Toastmasters. The one who originally contacted you advised that he will contact you soon. We appreciate your support.

 Q:  We have been given the run around about pre-checking family members to assure they can get on base before they drive the 24 hours to get here. If we take their information to the Visitor Center can they, will they, are they allowed to pre-check individuals?

A:   Thank you for this question.  Because of your question, we have changed our procedures to allow advanced base access eligibility checks of guests.  

In order for this check to be conducted, the intended Minot AFB sponsor must report in person the Visitor's Center to request such a check.  The sponsor must have their guest's full name, date of birth and social security number.  Without this minimum information the required check cannot be performed. The Visitor Center Staff will only inform the sponsor if access would or would not be allow at that moment.  No other information about the guest can be given.

Base access eligibility determination is based on the day the check was conducted, not for a future date of visit.  It is always possible Law Enforcement agencies and courts may add/modify a record after an advance eligibility check is conducted that would then prevent a guest's base access.

 Q:  I work for an AT&T contractor and we’ve been tasked to complete some tower work at MISSILE AVENUE MINOT AFB,ND 58705. Who do I need to get in touch with to get permission to enter and perform work at site?
A:  Good morning! The installation does not have a contractor that works on that particular tower, nor do we have a contract in place for any repairs on it. Since the tower is commercially owned by SRT and leased to other users, please contact the AT&T POC at (701) 799-1697 or email: pf919j@att.com who can assist you in obtaining an installation pass for Minot AFB.
 Q:  I very recently (Friday) needed to go to the ID card service center at the Pride building to renew my military dependent ID. The service center used to be located on the 3rd floor but is now located on the 2nd floor. The conditions that this service center is operating out of are somewhat deplorable working conditions in comparison to what they used to work out of on the 3rd floor. The set up appears to be something that looks temporarily thrown together quickly as if they will soon move to a different and more acceptable area, However, this is not the case. This is their new forever home. The lighting is terrible which definitely affects the way the ID cards turn out, the way the partitions are thrown together also is very sloppy with a false sense of privacy. I would say these working conditions do impact the employees that spend 8 hours of their day serving the base populous. ...
A:  Good afternoon!  Thank you for reaching out and giving us the opportunity to address your concerns.  We have been working closely with CES to address your concerns and more.  A project is planned for the Spring that will hopefully alleviate some of the concerns.  Thank you!
 Q:  Greetings. Request MSG or BW/CC engagement with the BX manager concerning storm delays. He considers early release and delayed reporting as suggestions, and considers his staff all storm Cat 1. Employees are going in when the roads and parking lot are not cleared and Airmen cant get to the BX. Thank you.
A:  5 MSG/CC is Investigating.
 Q:  I am looking for some information regarding possible servicing and or providing portable toilets for the missile site locations that are scattered throughout North Dakota.I am assuming since these are government owned properties the providing of andor servicing of these units would be open to annual bidding process if I am correct in this assumption could you help me to contact whomever is responsible for that process. Thank you kind regards.
A:  Good morning! The contract is still in place and there are no known issues. The contract goes for 5 years and it ends 14 Dec 2022.  Another opportunity will not present itself again until 2022 if all annual options are exercised on the current contract.  These are not Government owned porta johns as stated in the inquiry.  We pay for the lease and the servicing/cleaning of the porta johns.  Ms. Ellen Reed, 701-723-3057, is the Government POC from our Contracting section.
 Q:  Kim is medical personnel soon to be deployed to Syria. She has been trying to sell, and I've been trying to purchase her utility trailer, which she no longer needs, and wishes not to put in storage while deployed. We ran into a snafu with the E-Bay transaction, which would require her to leave base to complete. She explained that she can't leave base. I certainly would hope that the US AIR FORCE would give consideration, and assistance, to all such important personnel. I realize that you may not know of this situation, but your help would be most appreciated. She is not aware of this correspondence. If possible, please acknowledge this e-mail. Thank you for your time, and service to OUR COUNTRY,  as well.   Sincerely, Tom
A:  Your inquiry is not within our span of control. The USAF does not engage in personal, non-mission related transactions of its members.
 Q:  Hi I am in contact with Sargent XXX in the transaction of buying a truck from her off eBay, I want to make sure in not being scammed. Please verify she has just been transferred to your facility, much appreciated!
A:  Your inquiry is not within our span of control. The USAF does not engage in personal, non-mission related transactions of its members. Security and privacy prohibitions do not permit the validation of information for any USAF members.
 Q:  Hello, I'm currently a dorm resident and to make this really simple my fiancé is coming up here for a week-long visit, I'd just like to know if there are any really big issues with having her stay with me in my dorm for the week (I'll be on leave as well so no work) and what I need to do to get her something that says she can be on base for a week.  If she can’t stay with me in the dorm I can try and make some really last minute arrangements. Thx for the help :)

AVisitors are required to obtain a base pass for the duration of their visit.   Base guests will need REAL ID Act Compliant State issued driver's license as proof of identity. 

Visitors are not authorized in the dorms between the hours of 2400 - 0600. Additionally, cohabitation is not authorized (AFI 32-6005, para 2.19). 

 Q:  Hello!  I have a question about the med group auto-dialer. The computer keeps calling about a member of my household having an active referral. It has called almost every Saturday morning. If you try to follow the menu and speak to a human there is nobody there to help you so the computer just keeps calling! Even on a weekday you still can’t reach a person. If you follow the prompts and a human doesn’t pick up then it hangs up on you. It’s so frustrating. Why is this computer calling if you can’t solve the problem it is calling about?? 
A:  Thank you so much for bring this situation to our attention. We strive to ensure our patients are receiving the care they need in a timely fashion. If an appointment for an referral is not booked within 20 days of the referral being activated our automated reminder system will contact you to schedule your appointment. We were unaware of the system calling patients on the weekend with no way to leave a message or speak to a live person. We appreciate you bring this to our attention and apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused. We are working to promptly change the system configurations to ensure patients are instructed to leave a message for our referral management staff to return their call during normal duty hours. Again, we thank you for sharing your concerns and helping us improve this process.
 Q:  I was wondering where I would go to see if there’s a way to add channels to the dorm cable that plays NHL games. I see every sport available to watch but hockey. I know it would be a morale booster to airmen in the dorms stationed in one of top states with the highest hockey fans. Thank you for your time.

A:  5 CES currently pays for the dorm cable TV. The current cost is about $9,300 a year. NHL sets the prices and passes it onto MidCo. NHL considers the dorm a mulit-family dwelling similar to an apartment building. Under that type construct the cost to do the NHL Center package is $150 per resident not per box cost, which is astronomical. They would have us estimate the number of people in each dorm for billing. Still holding for final price on the upgrade to preferred cable.

Another data point relevant to this discussion. Up to this fiscal year, the dorm cable bill was paid from the Dorm PEC (28553F). On the FY19 Execution Plan, AFIMSC moved cable expenses to the Facility Operations PEC (27479F). Unfortunately, this PEC is a big concern for us this fiscal year. AFIMSC only allocated 42% of our requested dollar amount for priority 1 requirements (i.e Fire Dept equipment, snow removal requirements, etc.). So while the cable wouldn't be a huge increase, it should be considered against some very important already underfunded requirements.

 Q:  With red roads and delayed reporting, does this encompass TAPS as well for delayed reporting?

A:  Information regarding delayed reporting for those scheduled to attend the TAP class this week was posted on the Minot AFB Airman & Family Readiness Center Facebook Page at approximately 0630 on 28 Jan 19, to wit: "For those of you in TAP this week it will start at 1000 today due to the delay." 

Efforts will be made in the future to better publicize delays for FSS classes/event, but as a general rule, FSS activities will follow base delayed reporting as most of our activities are classified as Category 4.  Additionally, we are working to integrate our many Facebook pages and have them be linked to our main 5th Force Support Squadron page. 

 Q:  Out of curiosity, what has been going on with the burning smell all across the base this past week?  I’ve heard multiple people speak about how nauseating it’s been.
A:  Thanks for your inquiry. 5 CES conducted a controlled burn last Friday of wood, branches, and other vegetation collected throughout the year. While the fire is out, you’re likely smelling the remnants of that fire still smoldering this week.
 Q:  Does Lil Riders playland genuinely get cleaned during its “closed” hour? There is so much dust and grime underneath things, my kids love it there but I’m extremely uncomfortable with the lack of cleanliness. I can’t imagine with an hour a day, that lifting up some mats and vacuuming would be impossible.
A:  MSG/CC Response: Thank you for bringing this to our attention. I conducted a no-notice inspection of the Little Riders play area. I found the condition of the facility and the cleanliness completely unacceptable. I immediately walked the facility with Chief Sipos, the Force Support Squadron and Civil Engineering Squadron commanders and their superintendents. The Civil engineering Squadron is moving out immediately on completing the safety repairs that are required. The Force Support Squadron is completely revamping how and when they clean the play area. We are looking at long term solutions to ensure the area does not degrade again. The Force Support Squadron will provide me a list of courses of action to make an immediate deep clean and a maintenance plan thereafter. The Mission Support Group cares deeply about our families and take very serious any concerns which impact a healthy, safe and secure environment for our Airmen, their families and our community. Again, Thank you for bringing this to our attention.  - Col Goodman and Chief Sipos
 Q:  I just got married a few months ago and I am trying to set up dental and medical appointments for my wife. I am not sure how this process works. Is she allowed to use off base medical centers? How does Tricare work for her? Where can I make sure she is added to my Tricare? Any help is appreciated.

A:  The affected member has been contacted directly.  Since marriage is a "Qualifying Life Event" (QLE) you have to update DEERs and enroll in TRICARE before medical appointments can be made, and to ensure medical coverage. Once enrolled in TRICARE your coverage will depend on your selected plan.  For the most up to date information go to www.tricare.mil or your Manage Care Support Company for the West Region-Health Net Federal Services (HNFS) at www.tricare-west.com .

Dental coverage for DEP/RETIRE require enrollment and premium payment. To see your options go to www.tricare.mil/CoveredServices/Dental

TRICARE enrollment Minot AFB-After Marriage:

            STEP 1. Enroll your spouse in DEERS.

                        LOCATION: 2nd floor PRIDE Building

                        REQUIRED DOCUMENTION:

                                    A. Marriage license

                                    B .photo copy of spouse's photo ID

                                    C. spouse's full social security number

            STEP 2. Enroll in TRICARE by calling Health Net Federal Service at 844-866-WEST.

            STEP 3. If enrolled at the 5th Medical Group and needing immediate assistance come to the "Referral Management Center" on the 1st floor of the 5th Medical Group.

5th Medical Group Scheduling

Appointment line 701-723-5633 or online at www.tricareonline.com

 Q:  I have recently separated from the military and have requested my authorization number for my TSP (thrift savings plan) and i have not received it, it has been several months since i have requested it and now that i no longer have access to my pay I was wondering where my authorization number was sent to and how i could get it. if you do not know, could you please point me in the right direction and get me in touch with someone that can help me. thank you very much.
A:  We are sorry you are having difficulty. We have sent a separate message to personally assist this member. For anyone with questions regarding their TSP account information, they can call Customer Service at 1-877-968-3778 and speak with a representative regarding account access. If you do not have your account number, you can stay on the line and a customer service representative will verify your identity to get you access to your account. Additionally, individuals can visit www.tsp.gov; at the top of the main page there is a “contact TSP” option. When you select that, there are several other options for how to contact TSP for assistance.
 Q:  We have received several inquiries regarding Commissary "to Go" option during the winter months.
A:  Thank you for your interest in DeCA's CLICK2GO online ordering/curbside pick-up program.  We are currently in the process of upgrading our Agency's business and sales systems that will provide up to date technological capabilities that will assist with expanding to new locations in an efficient and cost effective manner. Upon completion of system upgrades, DeCA officials are expected to announce a timeline for expanding CLICK2GO, however specifics on the new locations have not yet been determined.
 Q:  Hello, I recently just had a last name change and was told that it would be in the system that Monday. It’s been a week an a half and my last name is still my previous one. Who/where do I go to get it situated. It’s preventing me from scheduling any appts I need.
A:  FSS Response: We are sorry you are having difficulty. Each case is unique will be different based on several factors. We would like to determine the root cause in this specific case and have sent a separate message to obtain more information from the member. The DEERS updates are worked by contractor, which requires 90% of actions to be complete within 3 duty days. Unfortunately, this may be one of the 10% with extenuating circumstance. We will work to resolve the situation directly with the member. Thank you and have a great AF day!
 Q: Good Morning ! I am considering the purchase of a surplus viehicle from your facility. One of your f350 aircraft taxis to be precise. Do you salt, specifically brine, your runways with Magnesium Salts ? I am inquiring as there are no under carrige photos available for these assets. Thank You for your time, and Thank You for all that you do !
A: The installation uses E36 (liquid potassium acetate) on the airfield. Since the vehicle has already been submitted to DLA's Sales Contractor, we unfortunately don't have possession or control of it to take any photos.
 Q: When I went through the main gate this morning 10 jan19 at 745 like I do everyday, I asked the gate gaurd why is there only one person checking IDs and only one lane open? He said they do not have enough people to run both sides and there has to be another person watching the flow of traffic coming in and pointed at the gentleman next to him. My question is why is this a continued issue when all gates are open, and the personnel who run/work the gates know there is havy traffic everyday between the hours of 630-830? Why isn't there personnel out there? This base is full of personnel that are qualified to do this, is there not? How is there not enough personnel to work the gates? Please explain? Maybe you need to move some personnel around to different shifts to cover said havy traffic? Just a thought. On top if having to wait inline for over 20 minutes to get to work etc, this is also a safety issue. Why is this still a continuing problem? 

A:  Security Forces is facilitating morning traffic by adding additional personnel to the gate Monday thru Friday at 0645. Based on traffic pattern studies at the gate, we have determined this to be the appropriate time to increase personnel. Security Forces adjusts lane usage through-out the day based on buildup of traffic, however, occasionally an incident occurs that pulls patrols and personnel from the gate. Immediately after we reach resolution of the incident the personnel and patrols are returned to the gate to facilitate vehicle entry. Security Forces posts a minimum of 2 personnel at each gate with specific duties. The entry controller is the member that you interact with on a daily basis. This individual checks IDs and visually inspects the vehicle and the occupants. The overwatch is the member that is typically seen inside the gate shack, rarely exiting the facility. This individual is responsible for the safety of the entry controller and for activating the Active Vehicle Barrier (AVB) in the event of a gate runner. Thanks.


 Q: I would like to know if we are able to sell military clothing that has been donated to our Thrift Store. We had a couple of fatigue pants hanging and a gentleman came in and stated that we were no allowed to sell these items. We would like clarification and insure that we are following policies. I thank you for your time and look forward to your response.
A: JA response - There is currently no prohibition on military personnel and former military personnel donating military uniforms to thrift shops for resale.  We recommend name tags and insignia be removed from the uniforms.  International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) Part 121 prohibits the selling overseas or offering for shipment to overseas addresses, current military issue uniforms. This restriction applies to all persons and entities in possession of such uniforms.
 Q:  Does the BX have an expectant mom parking spot like other facilities on base such as the commissary and clinic?! There is a spot up front, but it is not labeled! Just curious, and if not we should get one!!
A:  Thanks for bringing this to our attention. Expectant mother parking spots are authorized for "facilities with frequent civilian and dependent customers." As you've noted, we do have designated parking at the commissary, fitness center, clinic, etc. We'll take a look at the BX parking lot and make sure we have spots there as well. Any sign additions will likely take place in the spring once we're through the snow removal/ground freezing period.
 Q:  Would it be possible to open the second lane at the main gate before the traffic backs up down 83? This happens around 0545. All it would take to ease the morning flow would be to open the second lane 15 minutes earlier, at 0530. It would help prevent the backup until the South gate opens. The gate guards having to use clip boards to verify IDs compounds the problem. With winter here and icy conditions on 83, having the main gate ready for that flow of traffic at that time would certainly make things safer.
A:  Security Forces is facilitating morning traffic by adding additional personnel to the gate Monday thru Friday at 0645.  Based on traffic pattern studies at the gate, we have determined this to be the appropriate time to increase personnel.  Security Forces adjusts lane usage through-out the day based on buildup of traffic, however, occasionally an incident occurs that pulls patrols and personnel from the gate.  Immediately after we reach resolution of the incident the personnel and patrols are returned to the gate to facilitate vehicle entry.
 Q:  Regarding JDC brunch with santa:  Ok not trying to be picky....but how is it brunch if it doesn't start till 12?  And are you aware that most working parents children attend the CDC (5 and under, who are prime targets for a santa visit) have a dedicated scheduled and enforced nap time between 12-2:30?  You seem to be missing the target audience by making brunch at 12:00, and I definitely am not putting up with a cranky 3 year old at a late afternoon brunch
A: 5 FSS response - Generally brunch falls between the hours of 10 am and 2 pm, so the event does fall within the appropriate timeline.  FSS does strive to make every effort to meet our customer needs, but we understand that we cannot always accommodate every situation.  Our target audience includes families and any Team Minot member who would like to share in the holiday cheer!
 Q: Good morning, I have a question. I'm having a tractor trailer deliver my car to base Friday and the driver wants to know where to drop it off. Is the visitor center big enough or is there another spot? Thank you!
A:  The best spot would be the golf course parking lot or the DUI lot adjacent to the golf course.
 Q: Does the bx have an expectant mom parking spot like other facilities on base such as the commissary and clinic?! There is a spot up front, but it is not labeled! Just curious, and if not we should get one!!

A: Thanks for bringing this to our attention. Expectant mother parking spots are authorized for "facilities with frequent civilian and dependent customers." As you've noted, we do have designated parking at the commissary, fitness center, clinic, etc. We'll take a look at the BX parking lot and make sure we have spots there as well. Any sign additions will likely take place in the spring once we're through the snow removal/ground freezing period.


 Q:  I have an investigation whereby a female alleges that her ex has wore his U.S. Marines Military dress uniform and that his uniform designations do not match his years of service in the U.S. Marines. I was wondering if I can get some assistance to determine the merit of her allegation.  She provided a photo of them from 4 years ago. Any assistance would be appreciated.
A:  We have forwarded your concern and contact information to the U.S. Marine Corps. The U.S. Air Force is unable to definitively address your specific concern regarding this matter. 
 Q:  I separated from Minot in May 2017 and i cant find any copies of my DD 214.  Is there anyway i can get the electronic form sent to me or a paper copy mailed to me?
A:  Thank you for your inquiry.  The member who requested assistance has been contacted and given copies of their DD214.  Anyone trying to obtain copies of their DD214, prior to separation/retirement it is important to have a personal email listed in MyPers & vMPF and on your DD214 worksheet, so updates can be provided to you when your DD214 is completed.  After your date of separation has passed, you can log onto the eBenefits account created during the TAP class and access your DD214.  Separated service members can also call the Total Force Service Center (1-800-525-0102) for assistance in getting their email address updated in MyPers and acquiring their DD214.
 Q:  Hello, I am looking to find contact information in order to send in a verification of employment request. I know we have been helped by people before but we unfortunately no longer have their contact information. Please email or call with the information.

A:   Thank you for contacting us. Employee verification can be obtained through our Minot Employment Office Customer Service line at (701) 723-2799. 

 Q:  My son is a new Airman at Minot. My question is whether there is on-base public transit shuttles or bus for individuals that don't have a personal vehicle. Thank you.

A:  Unfortunately, due our regulations, we do not offer on-base public shuttles or buses.  There is a "taxi" service available only for duty location to mandatory appointments.  The phone number for that is 732-3121.  Per AFI 24-301, DoDM 4500.36 and AFMAN 24-306, there is not domicile-to-duty transportation authorized.

DoDM 4500.36

Para 2a(1) Transport of individuals in DoD Non-Tactical Vehicles (NTVs) from their domicile to place of employment or home-to-work, commonly known in DoD as "Domicile to Duty" (DTD), is not transportation for official purposes except as specifically provided under subsections 31 USC 1344 (a)(2) and (b) of Reference (z). Unless DTD approval is granted, U.S Government NTVs will not be parked or garaged at a domicile for other than official business.

31 USC 1344 states the usage of vehicles for the home to work transportation is limited to a few "officer", that being for example the President and Vice President, The chief Justice and the Supreme Court and so forth.

AFI24-301

Para 1.2.1. Passenger Movement: The use of bus, shuttle services, on-demand taxi, and similar support provide the capability to transport personnel between offices, work centers, on or between installations, and other official destinations.

3.14 

3.14.3. Government Motor Vehicles (GMVs), to include emergency response vehicles, will not be parked at any location so as to facilitate partial domicile-to-duty transportation.

AFMAN 24-306. PAR 2.1.5 GMVs will not be authorized for transporting DoD or other personnel over all or any part of the route between their domiciles and places of employment except as authorized in AFI 24-301.

DEFINITION:

Domicile to Duty—Transport of individuals in GMVs from their domicile to place of employment or home-to-work is not transportation for official purposes except as specifically identified or approved in accordance with DoDM 4500.36.

 Q: To whom it my concern, I am a concern Dad and have a question. My daughter is station at Minot AFB, and she is living on base in housing. When I visit my daughter which is living in base housing and it is wonderful. I do have a question, for the Housing , for a single officer that chooses to live on or in base housing receiving BAH without dependent rate, why does that officer must paid family rate BAH out of her pocket? Is this the standard policy. Would this be something that can be look into and where can I get a copy of this policy. I do understand the benefit of living on base, due to it very convenient for work and not paying for utilities out of pocket but I am concern. When she was in Hawaii, it was not the same. I understand it was Hawaii. Just a concern Dad and wondering why?
A:  Thanks for contacting us with this question. As an unaccompanied active-duty resident living in base housing, your daughter is being charged the "BAH with dependent" rate correctly, in accordance with the Minot AFB Housing Lease Agreement (attached). Our military family housing is privatized and all rent payments go back into the "project" which pays for the initial investment in the housing as well as maintenance, repair and operations over a 50 year period. Regardless of how many individuals occupy a given house, it's important we charge the same rate BAH to ensure income stability and predictability for the housing project. It's actually the only way we're able to even allow unaccompanied Airmen to live in base housing, since it's normally reserved for Airmen with dependents."  
 Q:  Good morning!  Im not sure if I reached the right spot but I have a friend who is not currently stationed in Minot and i was looking to come for a visit but I was doing some research, and a few years ago i had a criminal charge against me I believed was dropped after rectifying the situation. a non drug offense. I was wondering how I go about seeing if that would be an issue for me coming to base for a visit and how I find that out. Thank you so much and please get back to me when you can!
A:  You must have a sponsor to visit the installation.  If your charges were in fact dropped, you would be allowed access, pending a current check which would be conducted as is done for all visitors prior to entry.   If your criminal check comes back stating otherwise, depending on what the charge was, base access could potentially be denied.  
 Q:  Good afternoon, What time does the base gate close for big large delivery trucks? 
A:  Commercial large delivery vehicles are restricted to using the South Gate which is operational Monday through Friday 6 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. on normal duty days.  The South Gate is closed to all traffic on Weekends, Holidays, Down Days, etc.
 Q:  My husband and I have been caught in a situation regarding a substantial fee of an estimate of $7,000 to pay housing for moving out. Our lease has ended and they are charging us substantial amounts of money that should not apply to us. My husband has given our estimate to his first shirt and he has given it to 5 BW/CC. We have been put on a list of many others who are having the same issue. I would like to know what will happen in the situation in regards to what we will have to pay and if we should consider getting legal involved.

A:  The first contact should be the CE housing office, 723-4656, 6436, or 6440.  They can review the charges and compare to the contract to see if BBC is overreaching.

Another other option is for the member to obtain legal assistance with our local JA, 723-3026.  They usually provide this service and can advise tenants on how to file suit for small claims breach of contract. 

 Q:  I have been having recurring issues with the suite in front of mine. For several weeks in a row now, the residents have been playing very loud music every Friday and Saturday night between the hours of 2200-0200.  I have spoken to the residents several times and have kindly asked them to turn it down a little. The result has been them keeping it low for about 10 minutes only to turn it back up again after. I have also witnessed other residents walking up to tell them the same thing.  I just wanted to ask where or which channel one can go to get the issue settled. I would really just like some restful weekend nights please. Thank you very much for your time. Have a great weekend.
A:  This issue has been resolved. This incident happened many times over the course of a month and appreciate you contacting us to support resolution. The Acting First Sergeant has personally talked to all of the Airman and confirmed that the loud dorm residents have taken steps to be quieter.
 Q:  As a mother of an airman based in a warmer area, I have selected Minot for your colder temperatures.  With the holiday just around the corner, will you be having a party for the families on base?  I sew reversible fleece blankets and would be interested in donating them as prizes or as a raffle.  The blankets vary slightly in size ~4'x 5' and have a batting inside for warmth. I have over a dozen blankets and sell them at craft shows in Iowa.  The prints are:  pink ribbon, camouflage, mossy oak, Iowa State University, Iowa Hawkeye, American Eagle, and a Wolf.  Would this be of interest to you? Thank you for your service.
A:  Ma’am, your kindness is heartwarming and we thank you for thinking of our Airmen.  Your generosity is much appreciated.  We have a process for receiving gifts for our Airmen.  We will be sending you an Offer of Gift form to complete and return. Once the form is processed we will contact you.
 Q: I know there is always an issue getting lifeguards for the base pools but for the indoor pool schedule is there any plans to change/adjust the schedule to have after work lap swim times like last year and previous years.  Last year there was at least after work swimming at 1600-1900.  Thanks.

A:  FSS is actively working on recruitment efforts to hire lifeguards, but as noted manpower is the driving force in our ability to open the indoor pool for longer hours.  We are planning on conducting a lifeguard certification course on 1 - 2 December.  The cost for the course is just $30 and we want to certify as many individuals as possible so that we can hire them and extend our hours.  If anyone is interested in working as a lifeguard, even part time, please contact Outdoor Recreation for more details at 701-723-3648.

Thank you and have a great AF day!

 Q:  Good Morning, My name is K. R. and I am contacting you regarding back pay that is due to my husband from when we were first married.  We currently get the pay increase; but, this was for the 2 to 3 months from April 28, 2018 forward.
A:  We are in receipt of your inquiry.  After a financial review, it was found that Financial Operations received notification of the change in marital/dependent status on 2 Jul 2018 and appropriately processed the transaction on the same day.  Nondisclosure rules prohibit the release of additional/specific information about any of our service members. 
 Q:  Ask Team Minot received pictures with concerns in Dorm 210.
A:  Thanks for bringing this to our attention. CE has placed a strong emphasis on dorm maintenance in the last month, returning close to 30 dorm rooms to service. They have replaced most of the ceiling tiles in question and will replace any remaining tiles within the next two weeks. A new light fixture is also on order and will be installed as soon as it comes in. Please feel free to identify any additional issues to our ADL team.
 Q:  I am an AF veteran and own the farm that touches MAFB on the north side of the base 1 mile west of highway 83 on 198th Ave NW.  I am one of two families that live on the two-mile section of 198th Ave NW between Highway 83 and the North Gate. I am writing to express my concerns over the amount of traffic that is on this road every day, both commercial (to and from MAFB) and from military or civilian employees.

A:  Thank you for bringing this concern to our attention.  We share your concern for roadway safety and minimizing disruption to residents.  We verified that the area in question is a public road.  Minot AFB is prohibited from expending funds or using personnel and equipment to improve or maintain public roads.  In the past we tried to use the DAR program (funds designated to maintain certain roadways) to assist the Township with this issue.  DAR funds are also restricted for use on the road in question.

Use of public roads present a complicated issue for the USAF. Command does not control the freedom of travel over these surfaces.  We can message the workforce and encourage alternate routes but cannot enforce using certain public roads over others.  Also, base affiliated traffic is not the only traffic using these surfaces.  To help minimize traffic from Minot AFB employees, our Safety Office will post a safety risk management notification and our Commander will send out a base-wide communication to encourage base personnel to avoid use of 198th Avenue NW. 

In addition to the safety message to our employees, there are county and municipal actions that could improve the situation.  The Township could request Ward County assistance in managing traffic flow, analyze long-term improvement options, and identify other possible mitigation efforts."

 Q.  "Are there ever going to be cleaner eating choices (besides Subway and DFAC)?"

A.   AAFES Response:  All of the Exchange's restaurants offer better-for-you menu choices to support our Warfighters' readiness and resiliency. Exchange shoppers can also enjoy $2 off entrée salads at participating Exchange restaurants every Wednesday.  To help diners make the right choices for their meal plan, the Exchange lists calories on menu boards at Burger King, Charley's Philly Steaks and Subway locations.  The Minot Exchange offers a wide variety of healthy food options and does not anticipate a change to its lineup in the near future.

FSS Response:  FSS has options available throughout our food establishments.  The Jimmy Doolittle Center, as part of their daily lunch buffet, has a salad bar and on Tuesday's and Thursday's we have a ramen bar where patrons can build their own ramen, chosing from a wide variety of fresh vegetables.  At Bowling, you can check out our Kids Live Well healthy menu, along with healthy items you can substitute on the regular menu.  At Rockers our patrons can choose several healthy options which includes 4 salads, 2 wraps, 4 burgers and sandwiches, as well as fresh fruit.  We also invite you to check out all the new options at the Dakota Inn Dining Facility where coming soon we will have a new smoothie machine!

As always we welcome your comments and concerns.

 Q:  Good evening,  Is there a way the FSS could bring BINGO back to the JDC, especially for something to do on base during the winter?  Thanks for your time!

A:  Thank you for bringing this up!  We have already begun planning to revitalize our Bingo Program.  FSS has a lot of great events in the works for the upcoming winter months with Bingo being one of many.  Visit us at our website, https://5thforcesupport.com or “Like” us on FaceBook, https://www.facebook.com/5thforcesupport, to keep up with all that FSS has to offer Team Minot!  We hope to see you at our next event.  Thank you and have a great AF day!

 Q:  Would it be possible to get a 5th WG and 5th LRS squadron patch?  I retired from the LRS back in 2009 and  I am in the process of putting to gather a motorcycle vest displaying all the bases and units that I was assigned too. And I was hoping that you may be able provide me with one of each.  Thanks in advance.  
A:  Thank you for your service.  We have contacted the appropriate organizations to fulfill your request.  They will be in contact with you soon.
 

Q: "Typically, it is unwise to do any major structural winter road maintenance in the cold...Without special engineering permission, most states prohibit paving in conditions below 45-50°F...Never install asphalt or concrete on a frozen subbase; this will only ensure additional work for you when the conditions improve and you have to redo the job." - Powerblanket  I was referring to the fact the gate will be closed for 6 more weeks for contractor convenience while the rest of the populous is put in danger daily. Something definitely needs to be done to help us out in the mornings.

A:  Bomber Boulevard is a high use street where there is never a good time to do construction.  Not only is it a primary artery for traffic on Minot Air Force Base but it is also integral for access to the WSA and airfield. 

This may look like an easy project but that is not the case.  This is a $5M, 5-phase project that must meet stringent criteria to serve our missions.  The award of the contract and performance of the work is governed by the Federal Acquisition Regulations and established specifications/drawings including those of the ND Department of Transportation which allow for paving when temperatures are 40 degrees and rising.

The South Gate is required to close for 3 of the 5 phases on the Bomber Blvd project. With one complete, the contractor has moved onto another phase requiring gate closure. Yes, this keeps the South Gate closed for the duration of the phase. However, it will decrease the amount of time the South Gate will be closed in the spring.

The contractor experienced a few delays in the first phase of construction due to site conditions that were not exposed until they removed the old asphalt.  Those issues have been resolved and they are meticulously working to complete the current phase before the winter shutdown. The South Gate will be open for the winter, whether or not the phase is completed.

Though we have every confidence in the abilities of 5 CES this project exceeds their in-house capabilities.  They have a limited work force and lack the equipment to support a project of this magnitude.  They are constantly tasked with smaller jobs such as airfield pavement repairs, MDG parking lot, MPA shoulder repair, closure of Shawnee, mowing in restricted areas, etc.

 

 

Q:  I usually try to ignore the excessive drama on the MAFB families facebook group, but I read a particularly concerning thread of posts that I felt should really be shared with leadership. Teenagers on base or causing a lot of damage, and apparently now are shooting BB guns at pets. While this in itself is very upsetting (is there anything we can do in base housing to help? Street cameras? more patrols?) what was MORE upsetting was the adult's reactions to this behavior. I've attached screenshots of the entire conversation, including all comments, to avoid taking anything out of context. Adults are threatening to take action into their own hands and shoot kids with BB guns themselves, and "freeze the BB's" to make it hurt more, and "make sure these kids won't be making it home." This is absolutely out of hand.

A:  The School Liaison Officer has notified the Superintendent’s office to pass on to the School Resource Officers for both awareness and to inform Ward County Sherriff’s office with any information obtained about these activities.

Security Forces ensures public safety is always its number one priority.  Law Enforcement patrols dedicate the majority of their time in housing conducting presence patrols, walkthroughs and engaging in community policing programs.  Safety of the residence of Minot AFB can only be guaranteed when the residents assist us in these matters by identifying suspicious activities and notifying the Law Enforcement Desk immediately (701-723-3096) when others are not abiding by the installation rules and regulations. 

Discharging a firearm within the housing areas is illegal.  Those that violate this law fall subject to ND Sentry Code 62.1-02-06 (Civilian and Dependent) or Article 134 of the UCMJ (Active Duty).  Additionally, attempting to harm or abuse a public animal is also illegal.  Those that are found in violation of these laws are subject to ND Sentry Code 36-21.2 (Civilian and Dependent) or Article 134 of the UCMJ (Active Duty). 

All members of team Minot are subject to these rules and regulations and those found in violation will be prosecuted to the full extent allowable by the USAF and/or the Ward County Sheriff’s office.     
 Q:  My airman is not getting the proper treatment for his condition it is not only detrimental to his mental state but it is taking a horrible physical toll he is not eating or hydrating and what he does he he usually throws up for fear of contamination. His issue is Contamination OCD which he never had until Minot because of the asbestos dust and the eorionite mineral from that area. His whole family is very concerned about his well being and the non serious nature of what is not being done
A:  The 891st Missile Security Forces Squadron Command team is heavily engaged with the Medical Group (to include Task Force True North services using Medical Group facilities) to ensure care for all Airmen within their care.  Flight leadership is working to minimize exposure to potential contaminates that are concerning.
 Q:  I’m hoping for a family-friendly parking solution at the med group. I understand that there is limited parking at the med group, so there are smaller parking spaces to accommodate more vehicles. These smaller spaces make it nearly impossible to get car seats in and out of the car. I drove around for 10 minutes, and this was the biggest spot available. I had to back my van out of the space, impeding traffic, in order to get my daughter’s infant seat in and out of the car. Is it possible to create some larger spaces and designate them as family parking spaces? I wouldn’t care if they’re in the very back of the parking lot, as long as there’s enough space to park and safely get my children in and out of the car. Thank you so much!
A:  Thanks for bringing this concern to our attention. 5 CES is currently evaluating our 2019 pavement striping plans. If funding is available, CE will work with 5 MDG to evaluate the possibility of adding larger parking spaces without reducing required parking capacity.
 Q:  Received complaints from concerned airmen.   An airmen doesn't want to tell anyone he is being hazed in his shop because he's very embarrassed by the activities. One of the staffs called him while he was on his lunch break back in the dorm and asked if he was in his dorm and he said no, but he misunderstood what was said. And when the staff asked him again, he said yes. The staff told him to come back to work immediately. He singled him out of the group of airman multiple times and had him stare at a blank TV screen for 4 HOURS while another staff babysat him. And when his friends walked past and asked what he was doing, the staff told them "He's in time out." These are not staff sgts. These are Senior Amn with an extra stripe. Staffs should NOT abuse their power like these staffs did and will not stop emailing until something is done about it.  

A:  Air Force policy is that Airmen do not tolerate bullying, hazing, harassment, or any instance where an Airman inflicts any form of physical or psychological abuse that degrades, insults, dehumanizes, or injures another Airman.  It is the obligation of each Airman in the chain of command to prevent such conduct.  DoDI  1020.03, AFI 1-1, and UMCJ Article 93 provisions are applicable.)

5 AMXS recently addressed hazing and sexual at a recent CC call.  5 AMXS/CC, laid out the Air Force policy to the squadron in regards to these issues.  Another CC call has been scheduled for 30 Nov 18.  The AMXS/CC will brief AMXS discipline results which will include sexual harassment punishment that ended the careers of 3 Airmen (2 TSgts and SrA) and the outcome of a court martial that started Monday, 22 Oct 18.  The CC and AMU Leadership will continue to convey that hazing or sexual assault will not be tolerated nor will reprisal.  Airmen are encouraged everyday (during roll call) to report these things to their supervisor or 1st shirt when they experience, see or hear anything.

In regards to the this specific situation, without giving too much detail as to not identify the Airman or the one that came forward, we have spoken with all of our SNCOs and addressed hazing with the shop supervisors.  We are working diligently to build a culture where Airmen will trust their leadership enough to come forward.  
 Q:  Sew Unique will no longer be accepting anymore business due to Pat “The Sewing Lady” passing away unexpectedly.  Anyone that has recently brought in any work for her or anyone that has items to pickup may still come during the week between the hours of Noon to 5PM  to get them.  Pat was very proud to be of service to our military in this small way. You may call 701-838-8386 with any questions.
A:  Request for support to get the word out went to Chiefs and First Sergeants groups.
 Q:  We received a voice message from a lander owner in Berthold ND regarding a road through her property that the Air Force uses consistently also.  She's asking that the AF help her pay for the dust control that she pays for on that road since the AF uses it daily driving past her house.  
A:  Per a legal review what we can influence and control is planning and workforce messaging, not limiting travel or improving surfaces of public roads.  Public roads present a complicated issue for the USAF since base affiliated traffic is not the only traffic using these surfaces. Therefore we cannot control the freedom of travel over these surfaces.  We will message the workforce and encourage alternate routes but cannot enforce using certain public roads over others.  
 Q.  "With everything going in lately with accidents and in light of losing an airmen this last weekend due to speeding I wanted to bring this to attention. I slowed down at Ruthville today to 55, only to be passed by a GOV driven by two pilots, I could see their speed on the camera still at 68.  It’s frustrating enough to be passed by people in uniform, but to be driving a gov just makes that much worse!! And also are personnel not required to wear helmets while not on base????"
A.  Minot AFB has worked hard to reduce the speed limits in the Ruthville area near Hwy 83 and we appreciate your shared concern for our Airmen.  We have bought this issue to the attention of our Safety Manager for review.  Thank you for providing information regarding the apparent speeding and lack of safety observance by our Airmen.  We were able to identify the vehicle with the two pilots and confirmed they were performers in the Northern Neighbors Airshow that week and have responded accordingly.  Motorcycle safety continues to be an Air Force focus area.  In accordance with Air Force Instruction 91-207, the U.S. Air Force Traffic Safety Program, all Airmen must attend a motorcycle safety course and wear the required personal protective equipment.  This same Instruction requires those who use Government Vehicles ensure the operation of these vehicles, both on and off AF installations, complies with applicable traffic laws and codes.
 Q:  When is the other gate supposed to open back up?  

A:  Construction is scheduled to be completed and the Gate will reopen 12 Nov 2018.
 Q:  Is this friday a down day for the 5th MSG?
A:  Own It Day is a day off for active duty members and civilians who want to be off can take liberal leave with the permission of their supervisors.
 Q:  I would like to voice a complaint to the commander’s action line. I live near the CDC annex. It’s near the corner of Chevy Chase and Summit. The dumpster trash truck comes between 03:30 and about 04:30 on weekday mornings. It’s incredibly loud and wakes us all up. I’m exhausted.  I know that maybe the housing noise rules don’t apply because it’s technically not housing but it’s 30 feet from the back of housing. Is there any way they can wait until 06:00 like the normal trash pickup?

A:  Thank you for the feedback and apologize for the inconvenience.  This issue has been brought to our attention and we are working with the contractor to quickly resolve.  Current contract language specifies normal hours of operation for conducting service as 0700-1600 hours Monday through Friday.   
 Q:  I wonder if I could get some contact information to who I need to talk to about some neighbors renting the house next to us.  We know there are at least 3 Airmen living there.  The Non-Emergent Law Enforcement number, called today to see if they could help, but was no help at all.  We KNOW that if their 1st Sgt (or whoever they report to) found out the trouble they are causing in our neighborhood they would be in big trouble.  They have been warned twice that their music and general noise is out of hand.  Several neighbors have mentioned the noise and the parking/traffic is horrendous at times. If you are curious, type in the address 1220 17th Ave SW Minot ND and you will see pictures of "The Brick Lounge"...yes they named it and advertise it!  I just need who to contact about this.  My only other option is the Minot PD. Thank you!

A:  First Sergeants Council quickly responded and resolved.  The location on google is shown as "Closed" as they could not remove the establishment but all members have been identified and counselled on their behavior.
 Q:  I am writing you in a sleep deprived state. For the last 2 mornings and many many many mornings before this week, we are scared awake by garbage trucks at the JDC and the CDC. On Thursday mornings, many times, the garbage trucks are sitting in front of our house at 430 with engines running waiting to do garbage pick up. I don't know about you, but I am unable to focus and accomplish my work goals for the day on little sleep for consecutive days in a row. Seeing that this is a global strike base, readiness is being undermined by garbage trucks. The mission is way too important to have airmen walking around half asleep, and let's be honest, you don't want grumpy spouses either. I believe quiet hours are until 6 am. I don't think it's unreasonable to ask this of the garbage company. Thank you for listening to an exhausted spouse! Blessings for all you do!

A:  Thank you for the feedback and apologize for the inconvenience.  This issue has been brought to our attention and we are working with the contractor to quickly resolve.  Current contract language specifies normal hours of operation for conducting service as 0700-1600 hours Monday through Friday.   
 Q:  I am hoping you can help me. We have some invoices that are not getting paid and we are not sure how to get ahold of someone to speak with about them. They have been uploaded to your portal but nothing has been paid. Can you provide us with some help in getting these paid. 

A:  The inquiry for the past due invoices is a contract for the 91 MW for the OSS Entry Control System annual preventive maintenance inspections.  Ms. Heald, 91 MW Resource Advisor is working to get the invoices corrected and resubmitted.   One of the invoices has been approved and is working on the second one. If you need any further information please let us know, however I believe the issue is resolved. Thank you.
 Q:  Can we get an increase in SF manning at the open gates. Prior to these last few weeks it seemed like there were 6 airmen taking IDs. Lately, there have been 2 taking IDs and 4 other directing drivers which 1 or the 2 lanes to drive through...

A:  The number one mission of security forces is to protect and defend our assets and the installation. That mission requires vigilance and intensity 24/7-365 to ensure protection and guarantee security. The Magic City gate has force protection elements in place to allow Security Forces to defend the installation.  Many of those force protection elements purposely funnel and slow traffic as well as provide standoff distance for greater reaction time to threats.  The delay at the Magic City gate is not being caused by security forces manpower but rather by the sheer volume of traffic processing through the gate.  While we have two lanes of traffic entering the installation, immediately following the guard posts all traffic must merge into a single lane to proceed through the additional force protection measures (i.e. serpentine) and across the entry denial barrier.  Additionally, Missile Avenue is also a single lane road and can only support a certain volume of traffic.  Increasing security force personnel at the gates cannot effect the traffic merge into a single lane following the guard posts.  However, when security forces are not covering additional security operations you may see increased personnel at the gates during peak traffic hours to aide in traffic flow.  Ongoing construction projects coupled with the Air Force “Defend The Base” posture at all Entry Control Points, results in slower traffic.  We ask the Team Minot community for patience and support to facilitate those tasked with defending the base.  
 Q:  I am increasingly frustrated by the trash pick and the lack of consideration of our current contractor. I live on Summit and am going on 3 consecutive work days where the trucks rumble in between 3:30 to 4:30 in the morning to pick up trash at the CDC, JDC and lodging. The noise is horrendous, can be heard for a great distance (neighbors 3 street over also complain of the noise), and usually lasts 15 to 20 min. I feel for those who live even closer to the JDC as they probably get it the worst. Did our contracting people not ensure that the rest of our Airman is protected? Or Is the contractor violating their agreement? We need to ensure that ALL pickup is done after 6AM away from ALL lodging and housing.

A:  Thank you for the feedback and apologize for the inconvenience.  This issue has been brought to our attention and we are working with the contractor to quickly resolve.  The contractor will adjust pick up timing to not disturb housing populace during early morning hours.

The contract states that collection times shall be made between the hours of 0700 to 1600 on Monday through Friday, but also gives latitude to deviate from the normal base hours of operation, to include working on weekends, in order to ensure timely completion of work under the terms and conditions of the contract.  Prior coordination with the contracting officer or contracting officer representative is required for collection outside these hours.

 Q:  When is the South Gate access going to be open again?  Will the traffic surge ever be adjusted or staged access?  It is very unsafe traveling on US Highway 83N heading to work.

A:  Construction scheduled to be completed and Gate will reopen 12 Nov 2018

Ask Team Minot

Thank you for voicing your questions and concerns to "Ask Team Minot." We value your submissions and are committed to researching every submission and publishing the answers on this page. Every submission is taken seriously, and we are constantly looking to improve our processes at Team Minot. The safety and well-being of everyone at Team Minot is our top priotity. Submissions can be made here


Are questions to the “Ask Team Minot” line anonymous? 
   

Thank you for your question. You can submit questions via our website, app (iTunes or Google Play) or Hotline and the questions can remain 100% anonymous. For instance, on the website, we simply require an email address and name which can be first name with no last name, etc. Our plan is to publish all questions and answers on our website and Facebook.


Has there been any follow-up regarding the 5th Medical Group Appointment Line? The hotline provides an appointment time, but when the individual arrives at the clinic they are told they can’t be seen, for various administrative reasons. 
   

Thank you for bringing this to our attention. The Military Treatment Facility discovered an education and training shortfall with the contract employees working the appointment line. Since the discovery, training and retraining has occurred. The MTF has been actively managing and tracking mismatches between the scheduled appointment time and when patients are showing up for their appointment. As a result of the training, the MTF has seen a significant decline in these errors. However, because of the high turnover in our contract staff, we encourage patients to confirm their appointment time through TRICARE Online. In order to continuously improve our processes, we are actively pursuing a modernized appointment phone line system and other appointment line improvements that will help enhance the customer's experience when calling.


 

Why does it appear our services folks don’t work the same hours as the rest of the Airmen on base?

 
Without specifics, we can’t provide a specific answer. Generally, our Airmen do work the same hours (and often times several more) than other Airmen on base. However, our customer service hours are often shortened due to mandatory training requirements, inventory, maintenance, “back shop” time for Airmen to process the actions they received from their customers throughout open customer service hours, and many other reasons. Many “Services” activities have to operate as businesses and need to have sufficient income to offset expenses.  Most activities set their operating hours strategically to optimize revenue while minimizing labor costs.  While we would like to provide round-the-clock service, unfortunately as a business, it is not financially feasible. Many of our sections are able to make appointments on a case-by-case basis when a specific time will not work for a specific instance. In these cases, please contact the activity leadership if unable to solve at the lowest level or submit an ICE comment with contact information for flight and unit leadership to engage.


 Can you provide an update regarding the lost/stolen mail issue?
 


In October 2017 the MSG leadership, Air Force Office of Special Investigations and the Staff Judge Advocate met with the U.S. Postal Service officials to discuss the reports of tampered and missing mail on Minot AFB. While their review is in progress, we are requested to minimize dialog in open forums or media.  

The Postal Service previously discussed with Balfour Beatty the installation of large parcel lockers throughout the community to reduce the number of packages left at the front door of a residence. Due to the winter season, the Postal Service had to wait until the spring before installation could begin. The lockers have arrived and are stored on base awaiting installation by the USPS. 


Why is the commissary closed on Mondays?  
 
The hours of operation are set by DeCA HQ and is dependent upon the size of the store. Based on our size and location, Minot AFB’s hours are comparable to other commissaries throughout the Air Force.


The commissary seems to have issues with maintaining proper inventory and handling special ordering. Can something be done to address the items they carry, the stocking and the special ordering process?
   

The items that are not in stock are checked on a daily basis and are on order but we have no control over what our distributors do or do not send us. If something is out of stock, a customer can speak to a commissary employee or manager to see if it came on that day's truck but not yet stocked, which is often the case. When HQ deletes an item out of the system we cannot order it anymore since it is not in the system to order. We regularly check for expired items but we are not perfect, if a customer finds an expired item we will immediately pull it and can look to see if we have new, replacement products. Though we are extremely under staffed, customers are always able to ask employees or managers for assistance to find products.   


Why does it take so long for military spouses to get signed up for the priority preference program and actually obtain a job? 
   

From Oct. 1, 2017 through May 15, 2018, Minot CPO registered 22 military spouses, of those, 17 were offered and accepted positions ranging from GS-4 through GS-11.  

The law gives spouses 1 chance to be a Priority Hire (PPP) using military spouse preference. The applicant decides what grade(s) and which job(s) to apply for.  Most spouses apply for multiple positions varying in grades and duties. Applicants are counseled when they register for PPP of the pros/cons of applying/accepting a valid job offer. As a rule, we recommend the applicant accepts the first firm job offer he/she receives as there are no guarantees for another position. Local CPO recommends and registers applicants for positions or grades based on the resume contents IAW OPM Qualification Standards and what positions are currently vacant at Minot AFB. However, AFPC verifies the PPP registrations and OPM Qualification Standards prior to referring candidates for vacancies. Then, hiring officials review and select the best qualified candidates for their positions. 


Success and quickness of obtaining employment depends on multiple factors such as strength of resume, timing, and availability of desired vacant positions. The Air Force's typical hiring timeline is approximately 120+ days from vacancy to fill for most administrative positions. Specialized positions may take 6-12 months. 


Why are we not able to bring food and drinks into the the Lil' Riders area? Also, is anything being done to mitigate safety concerns of the smaller room to the side of the play area at Lil'Riders?
   

AFI 34-272, paragraph 3.13.7. states, “Do not allow people to bring in or serve food and beverage products in club facilities not produced, obtained by, or contracted for by the club.”  JDC, Rockers, B50 Brew, Rough Rider Pizza and Lil Riders are all part of the co-located club system on Minot AFB. This policy is established by AF to ensure food safety standards are met, maintain business income levels and are in line with business standards across the Air Force and the industry, i.e., McDonalds, Chucky Cheese etc. We have no objections if parents want to bring in water or snacks for children or get cups of water and use our soda machine water dispenser.

We are determining the funding, cleaning, maintenance and manpower support requirements to change the classification of Lil’ Riders from a non-appropriated fund supported facility to an appropriated fund supported facility. We will submit courses of action to leadership when completed.

The safety of children is a top concern for us. The 5th BW Ground Safety office has determined the room is not a safety concern.  We are closing the area off because it is a non-functional part of the playground that is going to be repurposed to a storage room.


Preschool is needed on base for kids that don't qualify for head start. Is this something you can look into?
 


Early Childhood Education (Pre-K) programs are not required by state law in North Dakota (NDCC 15.1-37-01).  Minot Public School District operates all school buildings and programs with the district to include Minot AFB schools. Minot Public School District only has a needs based program within the district that is funded by state and federal funds. There are inherent problems with establishing Pre-K within the district that includes operating costs and building space.  On base space is not an issue, but it is in many of the other schools. All schools are treated the same academically within the district so there would have to be a plan for every elementary school to have Pre-K. That would be cost prohibitive for the district. The school would not receive state aid payments for any student enrolled in Pre-K, per state law, which means that the costs associated with Pre-K would be taken out of the budget.  Current year the district is in a deficit of $3.3 Million and forecast a $2.5 Million deficit next year.

There are other preschools available in town and now there is preschool at Glenburn Public School. 


What is your plan to improve the AFI-driven operation of the parental advisory board? 
 
As a Private Organization, the Parent Advisory Board is responsible to improve its own program by following the guidelines described in AFI 34-223, Private Organizations Program. Also, AFI 34-144 Chapter 17.3.3. states the PAB “Meet with CYP Program Managers and the Flight Chief quarterly to discuss program services”. According to the meeting minutes, CYP Managers and the Flight Chief are currently exceeding the standard by attending monthly meetings with the PAB. Additionally, in recent weeks there has been numerous correspondence from members of CYP and FSS leadership with the PAB President, so communication has actually been increased between organizations rather than cut off.  CYP continues to stand ready to work with the PAB to meet the needs of the base.  


Are there any plans to fix the mulch issue at the parks on base?  
 
Last fall, in an effort to improve the playgrounds in our community, we replaced old mulch with recycled mulch material. After its installation we quickly realized the improvement was not an improvement. We removed all of the mulch material at our Roughrider Park and replaced all of it with sand. The other parks that received recycled mulch were tilled and hand raked to remove any stick material that was present. Our plan is to replace two parks a year with sand to eventually replace all of the parks that were supplemented with recycled mulch, four parks in total, if funding permits. We have inspected each park and have removed any dangerous material and will continue to till and rake parks if material is discovered or brought to our attention by our residents. 


What is your plan to handle complaints and to improve family services on base? 
 
Continued and constant communication, dialogue and feedback are key. To accomplish this goal, we have established multiple avenues that allow feedback. We will continue to use this mechanism for the primary means to address concerns and provide follow up responses to Team Minot. Some improvements are quick/easy and we have moved out to address those, such as a means to provide feedback to commanders outside of ICE, cleanliness of Lil Riders, open play for tots, programs for under 5 year olds. We realize there are other much-needed improvements, such as additional CDC slots, that will come with time once we have approved-funding for the design, followed by funding for the actual project. 


Col. Robertson has failed the families by brushing off the concern and only taking into consideration what her staff tells her. Will anyone look into the way the PAB members are being treated? The PAB members are the voice of the families. 
 


"I have a heart for all Airmen and their families and is concerned about the trust, professionalism, and respect for human dignity for and by all. Since the PAB is a private organization, external to MSG management and oversight, the MSG has a role limited by AFI 34-144 and AFI 34-223 however, I have directed that MSG members provide support to the Parent Advisory Board when legally possible. Additionally, to ensure all customers are treated the same, MSG staff has been reminded to maintain professional, courteous respect to all members of the community, and will be provided with additional, customer service training in June and July."


- Col. Angenene Robertson, 5th Mission Support Group commander 


When we first arrived at Minot AFB, 6 years ago, my grandchildren were too young to participate in any programs at the Youth Center. We became members anyway, because it allowed us access to the gym and equipment 3 mornings a week. The parents cleaned up after themselves, there were no employees except to sign us in and no additional charges. Why can't this be implemented again? I attended the Open Gym on Fridays and it was a joke. We had to constantly ask for more equipment for the children to play with and to begin with we were charged a fee.

 

We are in the planning phases of increasing the Open Gym program from just Fridays to Monday, Wednesday and Friday on days when youth center fee paying patrons are not present.  We anticipate implementation at the start of the new school year.

In addition, the 5th Mission Support Group team recently created a monthly calendar of events for families with children five and under that included different daily activities from numerous base agencies to include Child and Youth Programs, the Base Library, Arts and Crafts Center, Fitness Center, Indoor/Outdoor Pool, Base Chapels, and some others. Families are encouraged to support these wonderful facilities and activities. 


Is there any way Lil’ Riders can be opened earlier? With the harsh weather, it would be nice for parents to have a place to take their children earlier than 9:30am.
 
Lil’ Riders hours of operation are established to coincide with the hours of Rough Rider Pizza management and staff. Their oversight is needed to ensure the safety and security of all Lil’ Riders patrons.  
 


Since the Open Gym at the Youth Center was funded by Col Brooks, why were families charged and when will the families be reimbursed for this fee? 
 

Though Col. Brooks approved funding to offset the cost for open gym, funding was not forwarded to the YC to support this initiative as we were able to work with the Air Force Services Agency to eliminate any incurred costs.

Per the 5th Comptroller Squadron commander, appropriated funds are not authorized to pay for non-appropriated fund parent fees.  Required supervision of children and the resulting non-appropriated fund labor costs was the reason there was a charge initially.  However, in an effort to assist this program, the Child and Youth Program Flight Chief consulted with the Air Force Services Activity for a supervision waiver and they approved it, thus enabling the Youth Center to allow the free use of their facility for this program/group starting on 9 Feb 2018.  Though NAF labor expenses were incurred prior to this waiver approval, we have initiated refund notifications to all Open Gym participants. 


Is there a way to re-train all employees, in support positions, what customer service means? Can leadership remind their employees what SUPPORT means? The MSG's mission is to support Airmen and Families.

 

The Mission Support Group provides base support and services.  The Air Force has an essential national defense mission; and all members and employees of the Air Force, have responsibilities for carrying out that mission.  We are responsible for following orders, performing specific daily tasks related to our duties, and living up to the high standards of the Air Force. Maintaining good order and discipline is paramount for mission accomplishment. Our core values demand that we treat others with genuine dignity, fairness, and respect at all times. We believe everyone is entitled to fair and unbiased treatment, and we take seriously our obligation to care for, teach, respect and lead others. We must also maintain loyalty to the Air Force’s core values and standards and maintain professionalism and respect for others regardless of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, or sexual orientation. This respect for others not only involves personal interaction but also extends to communications and interactions in social media and cyberspace. 

Outstanding customer support is the priority in MSG.  It is imperative our Airmen and Families know we care.  We desire customer retention, rely on customer feedback to help determine sustainable solutions, and ensure our actions reflect positively on the U.S. Air Force. We strive to maintain the highest levels of customer support despite being resource challenged in funding, manpower, etc.   We strive to maintain the standards and when we find areas of opportunity to improve our programs, support, customer service, etc. we ensure training is made available.  In addition to the annual training requirements levied by the USAF for all of its members and employees, we request resources for additional or specialized training where needed.  There are several upcoming training opportunities to assist MSG personnel in customer service and keep our attitudes fresh in this arena.

 

The Youth Center Facebook page is still being run by a personal account. Months ago, we requested it be run by an admin so that people can see everything posted, even if they are personally blocked by employees. When will this get fixed? 
 


Minot AFB Youth Programs is working with 5 BW/PA to create an open, Air Force-authorized Facebook page.  Once authorized, the page will be moderated by Youth Center staff.  Additionally, regarding the Youth Programs Facebook page, we are working with Public Affairs to activate the page and up-channel to Air Force for approval this week.  We hope to be fully approved and running by the end of next week.

Until approved and available, parents are encouraged to contact the Youth Center directly with any questions at 723-2838, email the staff at 5svs.youth@us.af.mil, or visit the Youth Programs webpage at https://5thforcesupport.com/activities/youthcenter/.


What has been done to rectify the Youth Center employees "Friday tradition" of drinking at lunch and then returning to the Youth Center to work?  
 


We are unaware of a “Friday tradition” of drinking at lunch.  Recently, we received information of an incident where employees consumed an alcoholic beverage while at lunch and off duty, which raised questions from staffers of whether this was acceptable behavior.  AFI 134-144, 6.12.2 states, "No one who is under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs will attend, supervise or participate in any CYP whether located in CYP facilities, FCC homes or any other locations used for CYP activities."  Though “under the influence” can be interpreted differently by many, we used this incident as an opportunity to provide clear squadron policy and educate our staff  that any alcohol consumed constitutes “under the influence” and is not permitted. 


We were told last night that the fee for sports at the Youth Center goes towards paying for the staff. The coaches are volunteers and the Youth Center employees are working normal Youth Center hours, so where does the $40/player actually go?

 


Per the Child and Youth Programs NAF budget, the $40 sports fee breakdown is as follows:

10% Staffing (Clerical and Supervisory)
15% Supplies (i.e. paint for fields, dirt, floor tape, etc.)
45% Uniforms·        
15% Coaches Uniforms
15% Depreciation Tax

AFI 34-144
8.7. YP Fees. Fees may not be set higher than necessary to generate sufficient income to pay the NAF expenses associated with the activity.
8.7.1. Registration fees may be charged in YP. Installations may require those who have not paid the annual registration fee to pay higher fees for individual activities.
8.7.2. Team sports or league sports must be self-sustaining.


The Youth Center now has sponsors for the Youth sports, so why hasn't the cost been lowered for the families? Isn't that the point of having sponsors? 
 
The intent of the commercial sponsorship program is to provide opportunities for local businesses and organizations to enhance programs while offering awareness of a company’s product or service within the Minot AFB community. The Youth Center utilizes sponsors to enhance existing programming events and offset some of program costs, such as the Youth Sports Program. The Youth Center utilizes sponsors to enhance existing programming events and only offsets approximately $10-15 per child based on current participation and associated costs. While the sponsors contribute funds to partially support CYP, they fall far short of funding the entire program.
 


Why are Studio 47 dance parents asked to pay cash and not given receipts? How do we know the money is actually going towards the dance students and not in someone's pocket? 
 


Youth Program parents are encouraged to speak to the clerks, coordinators, or director regarding fees/charges for any program offered at the Youth Center. Parents can use cash or check to pay for Studio 47, and hand receipts are available to everyone who asks.  CYP also adheres to strict cash control procedures to ensure all money is handled appropriately. 

On 30 May 2018 North Star Community Credit Union conducted an audit of Studio 47 to ensure all payments were being processed legally and ethically, and “The audit found no discrepancies. Checks are accepted, documented, and kept on file. All expense receipts are reviewed and kept on file.  There is a spreadsheet accounting for all fees, including cash payments, which is updated each time money is processed. Families are offered the option to receive a receipt at any time. All previously issued receipts are kept on file.”


It was mentioned at the Town Hall last night that all questions will be answered within 7 days. Who will be held accountable for that? We've been asking questions for months that have still not been answered. 
 


This Commander’s Action Line system is monitored by 5 BW/PA, who filters the questions to the respective commanders/leaders under whose units the questions fall.  Group and squadron commanders enforce the 7 duty-day time line.

All FSS-related questions that have been asked through ICE comments since February have been reviewed and answered, whenever contact information was provided.  The automated ICE system provides the most efficient way to contact decision makers in each respective category, but leadership can only fully answer these concerns when contact information is left.  However, ALL comments are read and evaluated at the unit level, regardless of whether anyone leaves contact information.

 

I was glad to hear about the revitalizing of the Parent Advisory Board, but I have concerns about recent advertising being distributed by the PAB. I feel a responsibility to ensure the board is following pertinent AFIs. Per AFI 34-144-17.3.4 the PAB is established as a Private Org if it generates funding. The PAB generates funds and therefore should be a PO. I do not know if the organization is currently an official PO. Per AFI 34-223 10.1 POs may not use the seals, logos, or insignia of the DoD or any DoD Component, DoD organizational unit...on correspondence, titles, or in association with organization programs, locations, or activities. POs must prominently display the following disclaimer on all print and electronic media mentioning the PO’s name confirming that the PO is not part of the DoD: THIS IS A PRIVATE ORGANIZATION. IT IS NOT A PART OF THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE OR ANY OF ITS COMPONENTS AND IT HAS NO GOVERNMENTAL STATUS. The distributed advertising violates this criteria. 
 
The 5 FSS Marketing Office was unaware the Parent Advisory Board was in the process of becoming a private Organization and provided the marketing material and electronic media access with the FSS logos. Marketing has removed the logos.  
 


We live on the corner of Waverly Way where the road curves and there is a giant field and a pathway" to Rocket Rd.  Cars have been using this "pathway" as a through street to the middle school on Rocket.  This is a concern because lots of kids use this short cut to WALK to and from the school. Not only that, but during spring when the ground is thawing and is saturated, teens have used the area to go "mudding."  We have also seen cars using it at 10 o'clock at night as a short cut.

My husband and I have raised the issue with housing multiple times.  We've called the LE desk multiple times.  Both have said that yes, cars should not be driving down through there, however, nothing has been done.  I stopped one gentleman and told him that it wasn't a through street and his reply was "well, there isn't a sign saying I can't drive down through there." Please advise as to whether or not cars are permitted to drive through this area and if not, what is going to be done to stop it. 

 

Security Forces has verified the area in question is in fact not a road and is considered grass field.  The only authorized vehicles that may be in the area are Government owned vehicles for official purposes (i.e. utility vehicles, security patrols, etc).  Security Forces patrols will be increasing their patrols in the area and citing any vehicle found off-roading or transiting the area.  Additionally, Security Forces is working with Balfour Beatty and CE to emplace signs and barriers to identify the area as a “No POV” area.  Finally, MAFBI 31-116,  Minot AFB Motor Vehicle Traffic Supervision, identifies the limitations of personnel operating vehicles in this type of area and if personnel are observed in violation of this instruction, notify the Law Enforcement Desk immediately.

2.27.1. Vehicles will not be driven or parked on any grass or seeded area.

4.8.9.4. Operating an off-road vehicle on school grounds and within the housing area is prohibited. 

4.8.10. There are no authorized operating areas on Minot AFB.


Why does the youth center staff close on down days, when in their contract parents have to pay for their services? Why must children go to FCC providers (whom they do not know) so that youth center personnel can take off in down days?  
 
The Youth Center does not close on down days.  They also don’t use FCC providers. They do ask parents to tell them their child care needs for down days in order to “right size” their caregiver staff.  This allows some Youth Center staff the opportunity to take a well-deserved day off.
 


I think the 15 mph speed limits in base housing are ridiculously low.  Can we go to 20 mph across the board?  My car doesn't even idle at 15 mph. 
 
The speed limits on-base are directed by AFI and recommendation of the Traffic Safety Board.  Our Airmen and families are our primary concern when considering changes.  We’ll ensure your recommendation of a speed limit change in housing is addressed at the next Traffic Safety Board.
 


It has been brought to my attention that many in housing are carelessly driving. School is out and the children are out riding bikes, walking, playing and crossing streets. We need more SF patrolling the areas and enforcing speed limits in housing. This morning in front of my own house my son had to rush out the street as he was crossing to avoid being hit buy a speeding vehicle on Delta. Please do something before it’s too late. Thank you in advance. 
 
Thank you for bringing this to our attention.  Since the release of school, Security Force has directed patrols to conduct deliberate enforcement in high traffic areas of base housing.  If you witness any unsafe event, we encourage you to immediately contact the Law Enforcement Desk at 723-3097
 



I had the privilege of spending the past week at Minot AFB as a contractor this week and I'd like to share a story about one of your airmen.

I dropped by the commissary food court for lunch and was walking toward a line. An airman, obviously joining someone in line ahead of me, inadvertently stepped in front of me. Realizing his error, he apologized, stepped out of line and waved me forward. I told him "no worries" as I had a full hour set aside for lunch and insisted he go ahead of me.

I placed my order but when I went to pay, there was a bit of a problem - no charge for lunch. The airman had paid for my lunch. I tracked him down, wanting to repay him, but he refused.

Although this was the action of a single individual, it truly reflects the assistance and support I received at MAFB this week. I look forward to my return to your base.

Apparently it is true ... the best go north. 

  Thank you for recognizing our awesome airmen.  Our airmen work really hard in supporting America’s number one defense mission and it is much appreciated when we have opportunities to know they carry these principles with integrity and honor.  We share your pride in our airmen who remain proud, confident and professional.  


Is the PAB a private organization or not?  They have been raising funds.  Is this legal? 
 


Thank you for allowing us an opportunity to address your concerns.  Currently the PAB is not a private organization, however they were informed that if they generated funds they would be required to become a private organization (PO). The approval package has been sent to the PAB President and the PO manager is awaiting a response.  Once the PAB receives approval from the 5 BW/CC, they may proceed with any fundraisers that are submitted to the Private Org manager and approved by the 5 FSS/CC per AFI 34-223 10.9.1.

POs are not Federal entities and are not to be treated as such.  Accordingly, they are not NAF instrumentalities (NAFIs) as defined in AFI 34-201, Use of Nonappropriated Funds, nor are they entitled to the sovereign immunities and privileges given to NAFIs or the Air Force. 

POs must furnish their own equipment, supplies, and other materials. Newly elected PO officers must consult FSS/FSR for guidance and training on local installation requirements and procedures because POs generally do not get either APF or NAF support except where specifically identified in AFI 34-223.  POs may be provided places to conduct meetings of reasonable duration and frequency. 

Personal and professional participation in POs is governed by DoD 5500.7-R, Joint Ethics Regulation.  

 


I recently put in a work order to take care of a Dak Rat problem in my backyard.  When I phoned maintenance to check on my work order, I was told BBC does not take care of the Dak Rat problem in yards any longer.  I was informed they no longer offer this service but the woman than I spoke with was “not at liberty to say why” I explained that not only are they a nuisance, but they make my back yard dangerous for my children due to the holes. Not to mention that they carry diseases and defecate all over the backyard. I would like a resolution to this pest issue. 
 


From Balfour Beatty - Our pest control vendor ECOLABS was contacted by the State Environmental Protection Agency regarding their usage of pesticides to control Richardson Ground Squirrels (DakRats).  The EPA has notified ECOLABS to temporarily refrain from the use of pesticides in our housing community until they can review what is being used and if they have been following the prescribed practices for their usage.   As of May 30, 2018 ECOLABS received an e-mail from the EPA saying they are still working on the review and should be done soon and have an answer for both ECOLABS and Balfour Beatty.

Until we receive the guidance from the state our vendor is not able to actively control the Dakrat population.  When we get guidance from the state we will either continue with the use of pesticides to control or we will formulate a new plan with our vendor that will use some other strategy


The most recent monthly meeting the PAB was blackballed and told they were no longer allowed to ask policy questions, that they had to be directed to the FSS Deputy Commander (which goes against the AFI reason for PAB "to discuss program satisfaction and to provide any recommendations for improvement").  The numerous correspondence you're referencing are with one parent, newly elected PAB president, but unfortunately all of the remainder of the PAB members have been cut off from communication.  Questions related solely to business are being ignored.  Customer service is garbage within the CYP.  So, I ask again, what is your plan to improve the AFI-driven operation of the parental advisory board? 
 
In accordance with our standard procedures for interacting with Private Organizations, CYP Leaders and other members of leadership will continue to interface and work with the PAB President to address any questions or concerns related to program satisfaction and will continue to consider any and all recommendations that are made for program improvement.  PAB members should coordinate their questions through their Private Organization president or utilize ICE or the Commander's Access Line for specific concerns.
 


Thank you for your response to why obtaining government employment takes so long.  However, the question stated was: The CPO Office frequently hinders the applications of military spouses, through errors on coding them into the Priority Preference Program, to making their non-governmental work experience worthless when applying for jobs.  Please look into how long it takes a PPP applicant to get signed up for the program and actually obtain a job, it's close to 10 months.  Please look at the types of jobs spouses often get (never above a GS-09, and even then GS-09 is for the ones with 15 years valid work experience outside the government that goes uncounted and masters level education).  One spouse, just recently, took 10 months, with a bachelor's degree, and only qualified for a GS-05.  She was turned down multiple times for GS-06 and GS-07 for coding errors on her Priority placement package.  I too had similar issues.  The CPO office works harder for local people than they do for the air force families stationed here.  This is clear discrimination against spouses.  What is your plan to look into and handle spouse discrimination and application mishandling on the part of CPO?  We are afraid to make complaints to EO because then we will never get through CPO to obtain employment. 
 


Thank you for the opportunity to clarify some points to your concerns.  The following responses address the two main concerns:

Regarding rating qualifications/education degrees/and outside of government services experiences:  Applications are rated according to the general standard set by OPM.  For most general admin/management occupational series, a 4-year bachelor's degree qualifies for a GS-5, additional 1-2 years of graduate work minimally qualifies an applicant for a GS-7. Additionally, the applicant must also have 1 year of specialized (direct) experience to the appropriate level.  Many positions also have added desired experience requirements which are listed on the positions descriptions advertised on USAJOBS.GOV.  As you can see, CPO must rate the positions within the parameter set by OPM. 

Regarding "coding errors":  A recent incident that we are aware of is that AFPC updated some of the codes without notifying the field offices.  Once AFPC notified us, we notified and updated the registration within 24 hours.   We aim to provide the best chances for Spouse registrants to match against our vacancies.  Applicants must be among the best qualified candidates eligible for referral. "Best" qualified means that the spouse's qualifications are equal to or higher than the lowest ranked candidate eligible for referral.  In several instances, local CPO may determine that an applicant's experience may qualify for certain "codes"; however, after review, AFPC determined that the applicant is not "best qualified" with the specialized experienced needed and rejects the codes submitted by local CPO.  Therefore, CPO must have the applicant amend the registrations.  Unfortunately, these rejections cost additional process time to the already lengthy hiring process. 

For specific case review, please contact the Civilian Personnel Officer at (701) 723-1997.  


There is a “dark spot” in the crosswalk next to North Plains. 
 
On 29 March 5 CES asked Verendrye Electric Coop (VEC) to investigate the brightness as a result of the Traffic Safety Board (TSB) discussion.  On 2 April VEC replied indicating that there was reduced illumination in both lights and they have now been repaired.
 


Request to add a stop sign at Huey & Roaming. 
 
The TSB approved the request.  5 CES will submit a request to Balfour Beatty Communities (BBBC) requesting to add additional stop signs at the intersection of Huey and Roaming (create 4-way stop sign intersection -- currently only 2 in place).
 


Will the outdoor track at the gym get covered with a dome or something? 
 


The current outdoor track cannot be covered due to engineering and site requirements and proximity to Tanker Trail to the North and the LRS Vehicle Maintenance Facility to the South.

We are working a design for a new, standardized track with a bubble-style cover.  The current concept will include a new rubberized track, artificial turf field, air supported fabric shelter, HVAC, and potential for additional supporting facilities (such as parking, and restrooms).  The CE squadron has submitted a Request For Funding to higher headquarters for a Concept Design.  Initial construction cost estimates indicate that the project will likely compete for Congressional-level funding such as MILCON or Unspecified Minor MILCON.  Therefore, the timeline for completion will be heavily dependent on Congressional funding, and leadership priority. 


This section is in regards to multiple inquiries concerning Air Force policy and guidance.
 


Thank you for sharing your concerns and apologize for your experience.  Minot AFB is a memorable assignment and pray that any communications or experiences do not cloud the high quality standards we strive to maintain and want to help assist in understanding Air Force policy and standards.  It is our prayer that your concerns have been misunderstood as the following are how the Air Force envisions the role and value of our members and families and expectation of our adherence to laws, policies, etc.  We are exemplify being good Wingmen when we remind and support one another in meeting these standards and expectations. 

Spouse organizations- Spouse unit/family programs are designed to enhance readiness and establish a sense of Air Force community. These programs are been standardized across the Air Force to address the needs of all military families with special emphasis on support to families across the deployment cycle.  Air Force Global Strike commander provides a continuous, straight forward message on how “morale and readiness impacts our lethality” and how we take care of families is tied to this.  This is a critical role and responsibility we all share in maintaining morale and this nation’s nuclear deterrence effectiveness.  Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David L. Goldfein and his wife, Mrs. Dawn Goldfein have written that spouse programs are “A vital resource available to command teams to support Air Force families is the Key Spouse Program. This program represents a powerful network of interconnected, educated, service-minded volunteers standing ready to assist with everything from morale and welfare celebrations to crisis management….It is at the squadron level where we succeed or fail as an Air Force,” said Gen. Goldfein about Revitalizing squadrons….This is where Airmen and families thrive. It’s where training and education occurs.”  As leaders, which includes everyone, regardless of rank, is our primary responsibility to facilitate an environment where we can be successful as a community and strong as a nation.

 

Destruction of government property: Based on the jurisdiction of the installation, an act, of deemed criminal and committed by a civilian, would be referred to the Ward County Sherriff’s Office for action. If this is witnessed, please contact the authorities immediately.

Promises of Civilian Promotion: 5 USC 2302 contains prohibited personnel practices of hiring employees within the Federal Government, which includes, but is not limited to, discrimination, nepotism, giving unauthorized preference or advantage, influence, deceive or willfully obstruct candidates for employment, etc.

It is inappropriate to give the perception that hiring is based upon “who you know” and can be accomplished without following the Federal Government’s strict rules and procedures.  This perception leads to inaccurate information, grievances, and potentially missed employment opportunities.

For information on the federal hiring process, please contact the Civilian Personnel Office for assistance.

Promises of Military Promotion:  Both enlisted and officer promotions are managed through boards or panels where multiple board members contribute to a member’s promotion selection according to strict procedures.  The Enlisted promotion process is described in AFI 36-2406, specifically paras 4.19.13-4.19.15, and the Officer promotion process is described in AFI 36-2406 para 8.1.4.1.1.  No spouse can influence a member’s promotion, and for any spouse to claim otherwise would call into question individual integrity and that of their military spouse. 


Last year (2017), my son was at the Annex and they went on two to three field trips a week. This summer (2018), the June schedule shows only two field trips for the whole month. I am curious on why that is. The price did not change but it seems the services have.

 

In 2017, SAC planned 8 field trips and 4 guest speakers for the 12 weeks of summer. The trips included the base bowling alley, pool, fire department, Margie's Art & Glass and a farm visit among others. The guest visitors included Project Yes, Honor Guard, and others.

In 2018, SAC has 7 field trips planned and 6 guest speakers for the 12 weeks of summer. The trips include the base bowling alley, pool, Huey Tour, Air Traffic Control Tower Tour, Scandinavian Heritage park and others. There are two trips planned for June, four trips planned for July, and one trip planned for August. Guest speakers include the fire department, Minot police, vet clinic, SERE, CE, STEM demo, and others.

Field trip calendars are released monthly to parents. The field trip schedule is based upon availability of time/space of the visiting locations, required staff to child ratios, and weather. SAC coordinators chose to hold a majority of field trips in July 2018 as during this month we have the highest count for daily attendance (i.e. more youth get to attend). Additionally, by July youth have had time to acclimate to the program allowing for calmer and more enjoyable field trip experience for the youth as they are typically comfortable with summer camp teachers and knowledgeable of summer camp expectations. 


Why isn't there a family changing room at the gym? My son is too old to go into the ladies locker room with me which is understandable however, I don't feel comfortable with him going into the men's locker room by himself. Is there anything we can do to have a family changing room in the gym?
 
 

There is a family changing room in the fitness center. Room 404 is located in the back of the facility near the indoor pool and has a sign stating it is the family changing room.  The fitness center also has a sign in the front lobby identifying all areas, to include the family changing room.  If needed, please don't hesitate to ask an Airman at the front desk for directions. 


A spouse mentioned to me that she was unable to get her military ID expiration date renewed on time because the base policy is that the AD member has to accompany her, but because her husband goes out to the missile field, he wasn’t around. Then when he had time to go over the system was down. So they were told to call the next day to see if the system was up before they came over….so they did and the system was up, but she was told that the office was closed. It was only 3 o’clock in the afternoon. So the concern is that services isn’t providing hours of operation that are convenient for the AD member and/or spouse especially if the spouse works. The other concern was that the AD member had to be present because base policy, but a marriage license and a current valid ID should have been enough. The spouse had not encountered such resistance to helping the spouse at other bases as she did here at Minot. The spouse does not care to give her name or specifics such as time date etc. because she fears retribution on her husband. 

 

The spouse is only required to produce an 1172-2 signed by the sponsoring military member and two forms of ID in order to renew her ID card.  We are in the process of standing up a new Online ID Card renewal system that will slash time required to be in the MPS, but we are still working out bugs.  When fully operational, members can follow the instructions at the bottom of the response below to digitally sign the DD Form 1172-2 online. Below are the steps for any sponsor to digitally sign the DD Form 1172-2 with the link, providing they have the correct Java software installed on their computer.  We expect to begin publicizing this option in June. 

Sponsor can certify the DD Form 1172 on line:
The sponsor (CAC holder or Retirees can create a DS log-on) can access the DMDC website here:  https://www.dmdc.osd.mil/self_service/rapids/unauthenticated?execution=e1s1.  Click “Replace ID" next to dependent name, certify the DD Form 1172 for the dependent who is renewing his/her ID card. 


Is it a conflict of interest for Youth Center employees to be paid by Studio 47 at the same time? What if they are working on Studio 47 issues during their duty days at the Youth Center? Is this even legal? 

  We have received multiple inquiries via the access line and other avenues regarding Studio 47. We take each inquiry/allegation seriously and want to avoid any perceptions of impropriety or conflict of interest to ensure all CYS programs are operating above board and in good standing. We engaged with JA for a comprehensive legal review and determined that the Studio 47 Competition Dance Team was mischaracterized and not operating according to Air Force instruction. Though CYS staff are permitted to volunteer as teachers and coaches, mirroring the sports program, they cannot be paid as both contractors and employees. 

To ensure compliance and to avoid any perception of a conflict of interest, we immediately (effective 30 April) terminated all contracts and prohibited CYS employees from receiving pay as a Studio 47 contractor. This in no way has or will diminish the level of service or quality programs provided to our loyal customers. 

Going forward, our CYS staff has a better understanding of the guidance and we'll ensure the program operates as other youth program traveling teams.  5 FSS leadership will enforce compliance by prohibiting contracts between the Youth Center and CYS employees who are already earning compensation as regular employees.  Additionally, the YP/Sports Directors will ensure the program follows all regulations/AFI 34-144, including memberships, ensuring monthly participation fees are paid, ensuring parents/instructors follow all code of ethics/policies, and programmatic requirements are maintained while head coaches/instructors handle all fees/payments in regards to uniforms, travel fees, competition fees and anything outside the scope of YP programing.
 


Are there plans for improvements to the half sidewalk next to North Plains?  Children have to walk through the grass or on the street during winter months. 

  The property in question belongs to the Minot School District and is not managed by BBC nor the base. The school district has no plans to put a sidewalk in that location. There is access to Roaming Road through the sidewalk that runs south of the school.  


What is the policy on use government computers, equipment, etc. especially in relation to using government equipment to communicate via email, FB, Twitter, etc.?
   
  Per AFI 35-107, Public Web and Social Communication, Airmen are allowed to use social media for self-expression and repost publicly released information; however, guidance states that Airmen must not post any defamatory, libelous, vulgar, obscene, abusive, profane, threatening, hateful, racially, ethnically, or otherwise offensive or illegal information or material.  Airmen (military and civilian) have limitations associated with freedom of speech; as such, DoD members are required to abide by certain restrictions associated with military/civil service and thereby maintain good order and discipline.  Failure to comply with these directives is punishable under the Uniform Code of Military Justice or civilian equivalent judicial processing. 


Why is BBC able to act with deceptive and illegal practices completely unchecked? I have heard from several families that they are charged for replacing damaged items such as carpet, medicine cabinets, sod etc. at move out and then these items are not being replaced before the new resident moves in. Also, they are not consistently replacing carpet that has pet stains/damage due to “not meeting life expectancy” or replacing severely worn carpet that is “after life expectancy” because they claim it is in “good condition.” It is unfair to the families being charged for damages not being fixed/replaced as well it is not fair to the families moving into a home and paying all of their BAH when there are notable damages, disgusting carpet, or damaged lawns etc. We deserve better! 

 

Thank you for an opportunity to address these concerns.  These types of broad vague statements/complaints are very hard to address without details.  We truly believe that statement that we do not fix repairs that are paid for is false.  We are closely monitored by the Air Force Housing office and they conduct Quality Control (QC) for the majority of our move-in ready homes.  The QC office are specifically looking for paid damages and repairs that are not completed, and they seldom find any.  Yes we’re sure it does happen from time to time; but when it is brought to our attention by our Air Force partners or a new resident moving in, we promptly take care of it.

Carpet is a major factor in a community this large.  Our operational documents with the Air Force set a 5-year life span on carpet.  After the 5-year period residents are not held responsible for normal wear and tear or minor pet damage associated with their carpets.  Residents are not required to have their carpets professional cleaned at move out if they have pets and the carpet is older than the 5 year life span.  Occupants are held responsible for gross negligence or willful neglect damage to their carpets regardless of the age.  Even though our operating documents spell out a 5-year life span it is not economically feasible to replace all carpet in our 1,606 homes every 5 years.  If a carpet is in good condition, does not have topical stains, pet damage or odors we may not replace carpeting as long as it is still serviceable and presents a good appearance.  This is done on a case-by-case basis and the decision to keep a carpet older than 5 years is a concessions of opinions from leasing staff members, maintenance managers and black light/UV results.  If a carpet is determined to be serviceable, when a new resident moves in they are informed of the age of the carpeting in the home.  This is not a foolproof process though and we may still end up replacing carpeting in homes after new residents move in if the carpeting is creating problems for the new family.  There have been instances where we have charged residents for carpet replacement but it was determined during the maintenance process that the carpeting could be repaired or cleaned.  Each time we have refunded the difference in the costs to repair/clean verses the replacement cost we charged that outgoing resident.

The other broad complaint mentioned was yard work.  North Dakota has a unique and often times diminished growing season.  We very rarely charge residents for pet damaged yards, we have done it, but very few times.  Depending on how long the time between residents and how many years of pet damage to a yard, there often is not enough time for a yard to take root and grow.  We inform residents of the condition of their yard at move in as well as discuss it directly with them when they are doing their walk through introduction to the home.  If a yard is bare we ask them to keep an eye on the yard and if it is not "growing" we will return to the yard to re-seed or fertilize as needed.    I would suspect the biggest complaint we get regarding yards and paid damages are referring to winter and pet debris removal fees.  When a resident moves out in the winter and they have dogs, unless their yard is free of snow and we can visually see that there is no pet debris in the yard we charge each resident a minimal "winter pet debris" removal fee of $55.00.  We keep track of each address and in the spring when the snow has melted we have our vendor go down the list of addresses and clear the yard of debris and repair damage that was under the snow.  Yards do get missed when residents are dishonest about their pet ownership.  We allow new residents that move in during the winter to call us in the spring (in a reasonable amount of time) and our vendor or our employees will do the yard clean up.  This is one of the most difficult areas to monitor when you are managing a pet friendly community with 1600+ homes and you are dealing with old debris, new debris, snow accumulation, etc.

We meet with first sergeants regularly, attending first sergeant breakfasts, first sergeant off-site training, etc.  When occupants have issues with damage charges, carpet costs or the condition of their home when they move in we work with them directly or through the first sergeants.

Often times visiting the homes as a team so everyone can see what we are basing charges on or if new home conditions require attention.

BBC stands ready to give tours to concerned Commanders through our homes to help everyone get a better understanding of our Community and the homes our service members are renting.


I went to visit my son at Minot Air Force North Dakota building and I see the condition in which all of these Airmen are living. It’s really disappointing because when I’m walking I see trash outside and I see it’s there for a long time.  I start walking inside and it smells terrible. I see holes in the walls, missing doors, and bugs in the light fixtures.  This building needs to be evacuated and remodeled because it’s really disgusting living in this place.  Airmen deserve living in better conditions - not in an old building that smells badly and with missing, broken items.   It’s not safe for this Airmen living in this condition.  I’m going to post everywhere Facebook, Instagram and more so the community can see what condition our Airmen are living in.   Really disappointed to see my son and the rest of Airmen living in these conditions.   Please we need to remove and put them in a nice clean and safe building.  It’s not right what you guys are doing with these Airmen. 

  We appreciate the notification on this matter and have taken immediate actions to address the cleanliness at this particular dorm.  We visited all of the dorms and were please to find that not all were in this condition.   We have initiated a review of incomplete repair requests for all dormitories on Minot AFB.   Those work requests will be prioritized for completion.  We are also starting a campaign to educate and remind Airmen living in the dorms as well as leadership that everyone has a responsibility to help maintain our Airmen's living quarters.   We encourage all residents to report concerns to the Airmen Dorm Leaders at 723-7284 for immediate action.  Airmen living in unaccompanied housing are a priority to the leadership on Minot AFB.  We focus efforts to ensure all Airmen have a safe, secure, and quality environment they can be proud of.  Again, we thank you for the notification, and the opportunity to improve housing for our Airmen. 


The lack of changing tables in the movie theater on base is absolutely sad. Children’s movies are played there and with the recent remodel they clearly failed to budget for something that is a heck of a lot more sanitary then placing your child on a disgusting unsanitary bathroom floor. I would hope that a changing table would be included and installed in not only the women’s restroom but the men’s room as well since men need to change diapers as well!

  Thank you for bringing this to our attention.  FSS has submitted a CE work order to determine safe placement of the changing tables.  They are purchasing them for both the women’s and men’s bathrooms. 


What is the next step to special order an item if HQ deletes an item from inventory?  There has to be a way to go higher.  We are so remote, and the products offered are so limited.  This is a poor quality of life issue. 

  If the item was deleted from the store only (not an item that was completely removed) it can be reinstated for 30 days to allow a customer to purchase a case. If the item has been deleted by the manufacture or the distributor, then it would no longer be available. 


The child to teacher ratio in preschool/toddlers is bad, 12:1 and 7:1.  It’s too many children, always hectic, not a conducive environment for learning. 

 

Thank you for the opportunity to address your concern.  The Air Force clearly defines the child to staff ratios in AFI 34-144, Chapter 12.  Per this Child and Youth Programs instruction, the following staff requirements must be met at all times:

For infants 6 weeks to 11 months of age, there must be no more than 4 infants per staff member at any time and no more than 8 infants per group.

For pre-toddlers 12 months to 23 months of age, there must be no more than 5 children per staff member at any time with no more than 10 children per group.

For toddlers, 24 to 35 months of age, there must be no more than 7 children per staff member at any time (except at rest time)* and no more than 14 per group.

For preschoolers, 3 to 5 years of age there must be no more than 12 children per staff member at any time (except at rest time)* and no more than 24 per group.

*During rest time, the staff/child ratio for children over 24 months of age may double if the majority of children in the room are asleep.

Maintaining the ratios above are a must do for us and in many cases we have extra staff in the classrooms helping out.  Taking care of this number of children is definitely not for the untrained.  Our staff members progress from entry level to positions of greater responsibility through in-depth training, education, experience and competency tests. We pride ourselves on ensuring the right number of qualified and trained staff are available to provide a safe environment and developmental programs for children in our care.  

  Since the hours of operation for the Commissary is set by DECA HQ, is there a way to request them to be more competitive in their hours of availability as stores in town (which is 15 miles away) since we are so remote? They are allowed to charge prices comparable to in town prices, but aren't providing the same service as in town grocers by being closed on days other than major holidays.  Recommendation for improvement: Be competitive with in town stores, and improve service to the base populous as the ONLY grocery store within 15 miles by opening similar dates and hours to in town grocers.  Your initial response stated that they were comparable to other commissaries, but they should be comparable to the grocers in the area, not other air force bases. 
 

 

Per the Defense Commissary Agency (HQ DeCA), upon demonstrating a need, an installation commander would have to put in a request to HQ DeCA to be open on Mondays.  After submitting the request, HQ DeCA would check sales and staffing at Minot AFB to see if it would be possible and cost efficient.  Once data is available that supports the aforementioned sales and staffing criteria, a request to open on Mondays could be submitted.  At this time the data will not support the request.

The commissaries are not allowed to change prices to compete with any other stores. They sometimes order high-demand items in large quantities from a vendor, who in turn “may” mark it down to a lower price.  As a matter of DeCA policy, all commissary prices are set at 1% above the distributor cost except for meat and produce, as they are allowed to mark these items up a little higher to cover for spoilage.  Local operations and prices are not a factor for DecA policy.

 

I travel north and pass by the base every morning around 7:15 for work... as of late there has been an increased amount of vehicles traveling north and stopping abruptly and making u-turns by turning into 184th ave all the while many cars are turning onto the frontage road (which is also becoming an issue) to avoid the line in the north bound lane. Is there any way we can fix this? One of these days it will result in an accident. My family farms and ranches just east of the base and travels 184th ave turning onto 83 every morning/day. I cringe at the thought of my sister in law traveling with my nephews, my mom, my dad or brother getting into an accident because of these travelers making a hasty decision to make a turn to get through the gate faster than everyone else. I appreciate all you do and hope we can make some changes to create a safer travel environment for everyone. 

  The 5th Security Forces Squadron understands military and local concerns in regards to the traffic issues recently imposed on Hwy 83.  Currently the base has a large road construction project underway that has caused us to have most of our base traffic enter the Main Gate.  Our partners at the North Dakota Highway Patrol provide regular patrols on Hwy 83, specifically in that area that you highlighted in your concern, when they are available.   We have re-engaged with them on this issue.  Our relationship with our community partners is phenomenal and they continue to do an amazing job on assisting us when they are able.  The road construction on base that caused us to shift our main base entrance is estimated to end by the middle of August, which will allow us to re-open South Gate to alleviate Hwy 83 traffic.  

 

Can we get parking lines painted again before winter rolls in? Mainly at the places that they are non-existent right now      

-gym

-BX

-shoppette

-commissary

-mdg

-bfifty brew

 
 

Keeping parking lots and streets striped in northern tier climates is a challenge.  Snow and ice cover the striping in the winter months making it difficult to see.  And, our snow removal efforts tend to scrape it off.  Having said that, we do not stripe streets and parking lots every year and none is scheduled for this fiscal year.  We will take this requirement, identify additional areas for striping, and develop a work order to get it accomplished by contract in FY19.  

 
  Hello, I hope this message finds you well.  I'd like to send my friend a care package, but I want it to be a surprise.  Questions: Am I allowed to send a care package? If yes, can I simply address it to the base with his name or are there special directions?   Please help!  Thank you so much. I look forward to hearing from you! 

  All personal mail can be sent directly to our Airmen and the sender would need to have authorized information to do so.  If the address is unknown, due to privacy considerations, we are unable to provide those details.  There are a few options if there is certainty that the Airman is stationed at Minot AFB.  The package with the Airman’s name can be sent to our local Postal Service Center (PSC).  The address is 1000 PSC Box, Minot AFB, ND 58705-5361.  The package will be forwarded to the Airman IAW postal rules.  If the Airman is deployed, the package will remain at the PSC facility until their return.  For long-term deployments, and/or instructions left by the member, the PSC may contact the unit First Sergeant to have the package forwarded to the deployed location.   

  I was weedeating my backyard and noticed the lawn company had skipped the outside of my fence. I called the BBC Management office and was told that I was responsible for the outside of the fence. I told the rep that I’ve lived here for four years and have never cut anything outside the fenced area. I called Maintenance, verified that I am not responsible for outside the fence, and was told they would contact the lawn company. A representative for the lawn company came out and, while talking to him about the overgrown shrubs all over the area, (some cover the air conditioning units and others are as high as the roofs) he told me that per their contact they only have to trim shrubs once a year. He followed up with the comment “bad for them, but great for me”. My question is why are residents expected to keep the shrubs in their yards trimmed, yet BBC doesn’t hold their contractors to the same standard for the base? 
 


BBC Response:  Per our Resident Guide:

Yard Maintenance

The Community Management Office will provide complete yard service for all unfenced yard areas, including the unfenced front and sides of the Home, provided that Resident has removed any personal items that would prevent mowing. Residents are responsible for yard maintenance within the fenced area of their backyards. Shrubs in the fenced area must be trimmed to the proper height of 3 feet so as not to block windows for safety reasons and be neat in appearance. Residents are required to repair any damage to lawns caused by swings, pools, furniture, decorations, pets, etc. Should Residents fail to make repairs by the time indicated on a yard discrepancy notice or prior to final move-out inspection, the lawn will be repaired by the Community Management Office and the actual cost of repairs will be billed to the Resident.

Traditionally our Landscaping Vendor has trimmed trees and shrubs in the fall when the lawn mowing requirements slow down.  When the grass stops growing they transition to a bi-weekly mowing schedule.  The off week that they do not mow they transition to focus on trimming and pruning of trees and bushes.  We started the bi-weekly mowing schedule effective 23 July. 

  Are there any updates to the gate access for the base? The current wait times varies significantly from day to day, ranging from 20 mins to 35 mins; which has a major impact on planning appointments.
 
  Traffic patterns will return to normal after the construction project is completed on Bomber Blvd.  At which time, the south gate will be open to privately owned vehicles, which will alleviate current traffic challenges. 

  Do you guys participate in adopt a soldier for the holidays or anything like that? 

 

It's always been in our culture to extend invitations out to Airmen to give them a place to eat and feel like they are part of a family.  This has been effective as long as there are leaders willing to open up their homes and we rarely hear of an Airman spending the holidays alone (unless it's their choice).

There are some sanctioned Adopt-an-Airman programs.  There are also several informal programs in which our Squadrons support our airmen; i.e. host holiday feasts to ensure members receive a traditional holiday meal during certain holidays.  Some of our Honorary Commanders host airmen at their homes during the holidays and other special occasions.

The Minot First Sergeant Council does two targeted holiday events for Airmen.  They solicit our squadrons for members who may be in need during Thanksgiving.  The First Sergeant Council works through the commissary, Operation Warmheart, and other local agencies to solicit donations to create Thanksgiving “baskets”.  These often include meats of the Airman’s choosing and usually a $25-$50 commissary gift card to help create a nice meal for their family.  Additionally, in December the First sergeant Council runs a program called the “Angel Tree”.  They solicit the squadrons for any families in need, whether it be toys, clothes, etc.  The Council puts up a holiday tree in the Base Exchange foyer with angel ornaments which contain a description of what the family member needs.  People will pick these ornaments, purchase the items requested, and put them in a drop box located in various locations around the base.  The gifts are wrapped and delivered to the families.

We welcome opportunities to support our single airmen and/or families.  Any organization who wishes to support our airmen, on station or deployed, should contact our Public Affairs office. 

  If we live on base, the [Active Duty] Sponsor is deployed & [the civilian spouse] gets stuck in town because of weather (snow/ice/closed [Hwy] 83), what resources are available to help me with my child in school on base. 
 

At the beginning of each school year and when a child is enrolled in a school, the Minot Public School District requires the parent to complete contact information for themselves, as well as, emergency contact information in case the parent(s) cannot be contacted. This information is used for routine contacts and in the case of a child not being picked up from school.  The emergency contact should be a neighbor or friend that can pick up the child if the parent(s) are not available to do so.

In the case of a winter storm or other emergency the school will try to complete contact with the parent to determine the best course of action. If they make contact they will keep the parent informed of the situation and what is being done.  If the parent cannot be contacted then the school tries to contact the emergency person to make arrangements to pick up the child.  If the emergency contact cannot be reached usually the school will contact the School Liaison Officer to contact the member’s squadron leadership to see if there may be someone in the unit that could assist.

We all understand that time is critical in ensuring that the child is picked up and that school staff can be released in a timely manner to get safely home and take care of their own children. The school will maintain contact with the parent (if possible) and continue to monitor the situation with them.  If there has been no contact with the parent or emergency contact and/or the school has been unable to resolve the issue they will have no choice but to contact Ward County Sheriff’s office and child social services to pick up the child.

This final action will be placing several more people in harm’s way during a storm and emergency personnel could be needed for other emergencies.

According to school officials the bottom line is communication. Ensure that the information provided to the schools is current and up to date so they can contact you.  Don’t hesitate to contact them if the need arises. Have an emergency contact for situations that may come up to include weather emergencies. If you find that you are a temporary single parent due to a spouse deployed, talk to someone about what actions may be needed in your spouse’s absence. You can contact your unit’s key spouse or Airman and Family Readiness Center for more information.

The very best option would be to work with the First Sergeants to work on the Family Care Plan idea with all deployers who have families remaining in town.  We could only ask that spouses/families make a plan for this.

The only other contingency we could look into would be an emergency Family Child Care (FCC) arrangement, but that would be breaking a number of CYP rules and would 100% be contingent on our FCC provider’s availability/willingness.  Not all providers will just take someone in (not to mention they could lose their licenses, if something happens). 

To ensure we do not break any rules and ensure safety and security of our children, we ask everyone to strongly adhere to weather warnings.  Since the severity of snow storms vary, Minot AFB and the Minot community provide sufficient warnings and time for travel ahead of all snowstorms. With snow storms in our area being both severe and unpredictable, it is feasible that a parent could be delayed for a day or more; therefore planning is key.  Like the school district, all of the available youth programs are required to designate an emergency contact.  This emergency contact would be responsible for picking up the child and ensuring their safety when the parent(s) are delayed or unable to pick up their child(ren). Unfortunately there are no programs that would retrieve a child and care for them for an indefinite period of time. 

  An employee of the Youth Center has a public FB page and inappropriate content on it. I think parents would be upset, if they were to see this FB page, especially when trusting children with this individual.  Who monitors employees at the Youth Center to make sure quality individuals are watching our children?  I think the fact this employee doesn't care who sees what they post speaks volumes. A meme on this FB page that states "sometimes at work I'm afraid I'm going to yell shut the (****) out loud instead of in my head."  The Youth Center is the only place where this employee works... 
 

Thank you for the opportunity to share the process under which our Child & Youth care providers are screened before beginning employment with our children.  All Child & Youth providers including our Family Child Care providers undergo the following screenings in addition to a traditional interview process:

1) Current installation records check to include the following agencies:

     - Security Forces Management Information System, Family Advocacy, Mental Health, Alcohol 

       & Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment, and Government Family Housing

       NOTE: This check is completed every 5 years of employment in these positions

2) Installations records checks as above for any installations in the previous 2 years

3) Dru Sjodin National Sex Offender Registry National Conduct Search

4) Child National Agency Check with Inquiries

5) State Checks for current state and any states resided in for the previous 5 years

6) Fingerprint Screening through the Electronic Questionnaires for Investigations Processing

7) Proof of Immunization

8) Completed Physical Examination

9) (Youth Center only) Driving records check

While our screening process is very rigorous, we do not typically look at the social media pages of potential employee.  Many of our child & youth providers save been employed in our facilities since prior to the widespread use of social media. 

We have investigated the alleged inappropriate conduct found on this employee's social media account and have counselled them on their personal choices on social media given their public level of employment.  The Air Force has an annual training requirement for all employees on Information Assurance and Cyber Awareness training which includes the use of social media.  Further, FSS will provide remedial social media awareness training for all employees regarding responsible use of social media and appropriate posting.  Additionally, going forward during the squadron orientation, new employees will be trained on their roles as responsible representatives of the FSS, Team Minot and the United States Air Force. 

  Hello, I just had a concern about an individual driving towards base today. I did not get it on video (that would be dangerous to do so). I wasn’t sure how to go about reporting reckless driving. It was a white Kia, ND plates with the word *******. On 83 North coming towards base (in the 55 mph zone), they were weaving in and out of those of us that were going 55; they (I believe it was a lady when I saw her again on base) were going at least 70/75. Very unsafe obviously and not necessary. I’m tired of people thinking they’re above the law. Also another concern is we live on H Street where it’s 15 mph. People are still flying through here at H Street and Shawnee. Our corner is always yelling at folks to slow down. There is only one side posted with the speed limit. I think there needs to be more signage or potentially more SF presence if there is manning to do so. Only for the sake of my children. Thank you for taking time to read my message and hear my concerns.  

  Thanks for your inquiry.  Unfortunately we cannot address speeding off the installation.  Both the ND Highway Patrol and Ward County Sherriff's Office patrol HWY 83 as time permits, as it is their jurisdiction, and they are responsible for speed enforcement off the installation.  The 5th Security Forces Squadron does actively patrol base housing and conduct traffic enforcement.  We will make this area a focus area to deter speeding, and will have our Civil Engineers install more signage as required in order to assist with obeying speed limits.   

  There have been multiple inquiries regarding use of social media.  The following is provided for information purposes. 
 

Social Media is a tool that allows members, home station and down range, to maintain contact with friends and family.  The intent is not to abuse use while working nor as a tool to do harm, bully, or demean any person, coworker, or organization. The importance of upholding professionalism while using social media and maintaining interactions that treat others with dignity, fairness and respect.  The Air Force is built upon the core values of integrity first, service before self, and excellence in all we do. We expect our Airmen to adhere to these core values at all times, to include their behavior on social media.  All Airmen are expected to create and maintain an environment free of discriminatory and inappropriate practices, both on and off duty. This includes conduct on social media websites as well as all forms of electronic communication.

AFI 36-2909, Professional and Unprofessional Relationships, applies to electronic communication and social media interactions by military members, on and off duty. AFI 36-2706, Equal Opportunity Program, Military and Civilian, applies to electronic communication and social media interactions, on and off duty for military members.  Per AFI 35-107, Public Web and Social Communication, Airmen are allowed to use social media for self-expression and repost publicly released information; however, guidance states that Airmen must not post any defamatory, libelous, vulgar, obscene, abusive, profane, threatening, hateful, racially, ethnically, or otherwise offensive or illegal information or material.  Airmen (military and civilian) have limitations associated with freedom of speech; as such, DoD members are required to abide by certain restrictions associated with military/civil service and thereby maintain good order and discipline.  Failure to comply with these directives is punishable under the Uniform Code of Military Justice, Article 92, or civilian equivalent judicial processing.

Guidance memorandum AFGM2017-36-29-01 reemphasizes expectations of military standards as they pertain to social media and electronic communication, while providing additional guidance on non-consensual posting of sexual imagery.  We understand we must continue to reinforce our expectations for professional and appropriate behaviors both in and out of the workplace, on and off-line, as well as remain vigilant for behaviors and materials that hinder a professional working environment or harm fellow Airmen.

Failure to obey the prohibitions listed in the guidance memorandum is a violation of Article 92, UCMJ. While every case must be reviewed based on its specific facts, some applicable Uniform Code of Military Justice provisions regarding disrespectful behavior using social media and electronic communication include:

- Article 88, Contempt towards officials

- Article 89, Disrespect towards a superior commissioned officer

- Article 93, Cruelty and maltreatment of subordinates

- Article 117, Provoking speech or gestures

- Article 120c, Other sexual misconduct

- Article 133, Conduct unbecoming an officer

- Article 134, Behavior bringing discredit on the armed forces or prejudicial to good order and discipline (including communicating a threat and indecent language).

- Adding a disclaimer such as “opinions are my own and not shared by the Air Force” does not mean you can say or share whatever you want. Generally, actions prohibited in person are not otherwise condoned or tolerated through social media or electronic communication.

- Air Force Policy Directive 36-29, Military Standards applies to all military members on active duty in the Air Force, Air Force Reserve, and Air National Guard (in Title 10 status). Air National Guard Airmen not in Title-10 status, are subject to the guidelines in their state’s Uniform Code of Military Justice.

 The expectation is that all personnel treat others with dignity, fairness, and respect at all times.  All existing standards of professionalism and mutual respect apply to social media and electronic communication as well.

 

The MDG at MAFB is the worst I’ve seen. Wait times, standard of care, accessibility and professionalism of Leadership are all lacking. I have heard from dozens of patients that are disappointed with their care. Whether it’s refusal of a proper assessment and labs because “Adults don’t get that;” excess of 2 week wait for extensive burns, shoulder injuries, kidney infections, dizzy spells, blurred vision asthma exacerbations etc. or lack of follow up on calls to mental health services. (Also several week wait) What’s truly appalling is the lack of attention to these matters from leadership. They rather schedule training days, resiliency days, BBQs and gossip then make sure the Amn and families are properly/timely cared for. Their lack of standards and leadership is proven by wait times, standard of care, accessibility of care and to them as leaders, and appearance of people within the Group. Stop shutting down the MDG and focus on pt care. Stop hiding away and ignoring this disaster.

 

The 5th Medical Group strives to provide exceptional mission support by ensuring that our patients are medically ready and also that our medics are ready to respond.  Through a culture of Trusted Care, which consists of Leadership Engagement, Patient Centeredness, Continuous Process Improvement and a Culture of Safety, our staff and partners are always open to feedback that directs us to areas of improvement.  If one of our valued customers does not think they are getting appropriate care or is unhappy with their experience, we want to know about it immediately.  Our executive staff in concert with our Quality and Safety Officer, Ms. Leisa Peterson and Patient Advocate Ms. Jean Cadell, will investigate any and all allegations, and take the necessary actions based on the findings to correct the issue and put measures in place to eliminate the issue for future encounters.

Our team has taken a systematic approach when addressing access to care and we are pleased to report that our beneficiaries’ ability to get an acute appointment in 24-hours went from an average 1.81 days one year ago down to 0.74 days.  Additionally, to schedule a future non-urgent visit, we were able to reduce wait time from 15.68 days down to 5.69 days.  With support from the Air Force Global Strike Surgeon General’s Office, our staffing issues were solved in our Mental Health Clinic.  Because of that effort, active duty Mental Health appointments have been reduced from 11.65 days to 3.77 days. Effective January 2018, Active Duty family members, retirees and retirees’ dependents no longer need a referral to go to an Urgent Care Center for acute care.  If dependents are unable to get an acute appointment when needed, going to the Urgent Care Center is an option available to them.  Your care is our priority and to increase access, the Medical Group is open with appointments, pharmacy and laboratory services on AFGSC family days and all 5th Bomb Wing goal days.

Furthermore, a key of the installations readiness is our ability to provide dedicated training time for our staff.  Currently the Medical Group is closed a half day, the fourth Wednesday of every month, for medical readiness skills training.   Training as a team, across multi-faceted skill sets, allows realistic scenarios which our medics need to support the mission of both the 5th Bomb Wing and the 91st Missile Wing.  The Medical Group Commander, the Executive Staff and our entire team are dedicated to making a difference in our patients’ health.  We welcome any and all feedback and are confident that keeping the lines of communication open will only make Team Minot stronger and a better place to serve.  Please feel free to contact our Patient Advocate, Ms. Jean Cadell at 723-5206 or Quality and Safety Officer, Ms. Leisa Peterson at 723-5109.