Navy League of the United States, Everett Council
NAVSTA Everett Sailor Wins Wheel Options Promotion
Story Number: NNS071214-03
Release Date: 12/14/2007 8:14:00 AM
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (NAC) Jason Beckjord, Fleet Public Affairs Center, Det. Northwest
EVERETT, Wash. (NNS) -- A Naval Station (NAVSTA) Everett Sailor was announced as one of the winners of the Washington State Ridesharing Organization's Wheel Options Campaign Dec. 11.
Personnel Specialist 1st Class (AW) Frank Myers took part in the program, which is dedicated to encouraging military personnel, civilian employers and employees to support the use of alternative modes of transportation to reduce air pollution, traffic congestion and energy consumption throughout the state.
"I think for the sake of finances, if you are a person who is commuting a long way, finding a more cost-effective way is obviously beneficial," said Myers, who commutes to NAVSTA Everett from Seattle. "Using mass transportation is also very helpful. Buses, ferries and the train system, which eventually will be implemented here, are all great ways to save money."
The Wheel Options Campaigns lasted for a two-week period, during which Sailors and civilian commuters log their modes of transportation to work. If a person uses a carpool, ferry, mass transit or any other means of transportation that does not involve driving alone, twice a week, they are eligible to be entered for a chance to win.
"This year was a success with 20 percent more folks trying different commuting options, which is an increase from last year," said Kemberly Espiet, Navy Facilities Engineering Command Northwest employee transportation coordinator. "Sailors and Department of the Navy civilians also can get help from the Navy, which provides subsidies to employees who commute via vanpool or mass transit. The Navy provides up to $110 per month to help offset the costs associated with vanpool and transit fees."
Myers, with Espiet's help, has been able to carpool with 20 other Sailors who commute from their homes in Seattle. Myers claims the financial benefits along with less stress from driving in rush-hour traffic makes ridesharing a valuable tool.
The prize was a $100 gift card and Myers is now eligible to win the grand prize, which is a $2,000 travel certificate to be used toward airfare, lodging and car rental.
For more news from Naval Station Everett, visit www.navy.mil/local/everett/.
NAVSTA Everett hosts Thanksgiving food basket giveaway
Fleet PACEN NW
Sailors and Navy League of the United States, Everett Council, gathered over 250 Thanksgiving dinner baskets to give to Navy families in need of a holiday meal onboard Naval Station (NAVSTA) Everett, Nov. 20.
“This is our way of saying thank you,” said Kathy Gambill, Navy League of the United States, Everett council president. We enjoy our freedoms, because these young men and women sacrifice and serve their country, and that is huge to us! We want to help the ones who need the most help.”
Each food bag had a large turkey or ham, 10 lbs. of potatoes, 36 dinner rolls, pumpkin pie mix, canned vegetables, gravy, stuffing, and chocolate truffles.
“There’s enough for a big thanksgiving dinner, and probably enough to last them all week,” said Gambill. “Each bag is a thank you. Our focus is on their service and their sacrifice on our behalf.”
Members of the Navy League have been fund-raising for this event all year. They raised more than $7,000 alone for the cost of the hams. The Commissary, Navy Exchange, and Chaplains offices from NAVSTA Everett, as well as all of the ships homeported on NAVSTA Everett contributed to the drive donating money as well as canned foods and turkeys to help their shipmates.
“This is a great example of Navy core values Sailors taking care of Sailors,” said Chief Religious Program Specialist (SW) Ronald Roberts, USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). The Navy League really has to jump through a lot of hoops to do this, this is my third year participating and it’s absolutely miraculous the stuff that she (Gambill) makes happen with the money we can raise.”
Families receiving food bags were very thankful for all that the Navy has provided for them.
“It’s a good thing that they’re doing for us.” said Amber Still, spouse of USS Shoup (DDG 86) Sailor. It really helps the families of those who can’t afford it.”
“I think it’s important, because a lot of these sailors have just come back from workups,” said Postal Clerk Seaman Chames Thomas, NAVSTA Everett. “You know, they might not have time to get everything ready. It makes it easier for the families. I will definitely be involved in this event next year!”