Maineiac Connector

11/03/2025

Soem good reminders from the MEANG Safety Office:
Maineiacs,

As winter driving conditions eventually are upon us, it's crucial to prioritize safety, especially when navigating icy and snowy roads. Our mission depends on us being present and ready, and that starts with arriving safely to work and returning home safely to our families.

The upcoming colder months bring unique challenges that require careful preparation and adjusted driving techniques. Please take a few minutes to review the following tips to help ensure your safety and the safety of those around you:

Before You Drive:

Vehicle Check: Ensure your vehicle is winter-ready.
Tires: Check tire pressure and tread depth. Consider winter tires for optimal traction.
Fluids: Top off windshield wiper fluid (use a winter-specific formula), antifreeze, and oil.
Lights: Verify all lights are working properly (headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals).
Battery: Cold weather can significantly impact battery performance. Consider having your battery tested.
Brakes: Inspect brake pads and rotors. Ensure your brakes are functioning correctly.

Emergency Kit: Keep a well-stocked emergency kit in your vehicle. This should include:
Blanket
Flashlight with extra batteries
First-aid kit
Jumper cables
Cell phone charger
Snacks and water
Ice scraper and snow brush
Sand, salt, or kitty litter(Fresh Step, if you’d like) for traction
Shovel (small, folding shovel)

Plan Your Route: Check the weather forecast and road conditions before you leave. Consider alternative routes if necessary.
Inform Someone: Let someone know your route and estimated time of arrival.

While Driving:

Slow Down: Reduce your speed significantly in icy or snowy conditions. Remember, posted speed limits are for ideal conditions.
Increase Following Distance: Allow for significantly more space between you and the vehicle ahead of you. The recommended following distance in good conditions is 3 seconds; increase that to 8-10 seconds in winter weather.

Avoid Sudden Movements: Accelerate, brake, and steer smoothly and gradually. Abrupt actions can cause you to lose control.

Be Alert: Pay close attention to your surroundings. Be aware of other drivers, pedestrians, and potential hazards.

Black Ice: Be especially cautious on bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas, where black ice is more likely to form.

If You Skid:
Don't Panic: Remain calm.
Steer into the Skid: Gently steer in the direction you want the front of the car to go.
Don't Brake Hard: Avoid slamming on the brakes. Instead, pump the brakes gently if you have a non-ABS system. If you have ABS, apply firm, constant pressure.

Headlights On: Always drive with your headlights on, even during the day, to improve visibility.

Avoid Distractions: PUT AWAY YOUR CELL PHONE and avoid other distractions while driving. Your full attention is required to safely navigate winter conditions.

11/03/2025

Maine's Hire-a-Vet 2025 Campaign
The Maine Department of Labor provides equal opportunity in employment and programs. Auxiliary aids and services are available to people with disabilities upon request. Veterans and eligible spouses are given priority of service for the receipt of employment, training and placement services provided under most Maine Department of Labor-funded programs.
Hiring events open to all job seekers!
• November 13, 2025 University of Maine Farmington 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
For more information and to register:
https://www.myworksourcemaine.gov/events/maines-hire-vet-campaign-2025
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Maine's Hire-A-Vet Campaign 2025

11/03/2025

Boots to Business Reboot Training
Wed., November 5, 2025, 9:30 – 5:00 pm
University of Maine - Maine Business School
Donald P. Corbett Business Building
28 Beddington Rd, Orono, ME 04469-0001
Boots to Business Reboot is a no-cost entrepreneurial training program from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). Designed specifically for Veterans, service members (including National Guard and Reserve), and military spouses, this workshop introduces you to the foundations of successful business ownership.
Gain practical insights and step-by-step guidance on:
• Evaluating your business ideas and opportunities
• Developing a winning business plan
• Accessing SBA programs for funding, contracting, and mentorship
The course is led by SBA subject-matter experts and experienced business advisors who will help you explore whether entrepreneurship is right for you — and how to get started with confidence.
Register: https://sba.my.site.com/s/
Questions? Contact Holly Aker, VBOC New England, [email protected]
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https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=quorum_king-iq&crop=15658.12109843.7567616.8250485&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fsba.my.site.com%2fs%2f&redir_log=069588504176

11/03/2025

10/30/2025

From the Safety Office:
Dear Maineiacs,

Halloween is just around here, and we're excited to celebrate this fun holiday with our children! Be sure to take advantage of “Trunk or Treat” opportunities that can cut a bunch of risk out of walking the roads and neighborhoods. If you must head out and do it the old-fashioned way, please review the following:

Before You Go:

Plan Your Route: Map out a safe and well-lit trick-or-treating route in familiar neighborhoods. Discuss the route with your children and establish a meeting point in case you get separated. Be mindful of longer distances between houses in some rural areas of Maine.
Costume Considerations:
Visibility is Key: Choose bright-colored costumes or add reflective tape to costumes and treat bags. Consider using glow sticks or flashlights for extra visibility, especially as dusk sets in. Remember Maine nights can get dark early.
Comfort and Safety: Make sure costumes fit properly and don't restrict movement, vision, or breathing. Masks can obstruct vision; consider using face paint instead. Avoid long trailing skirts or capes that could cause tripping.
Warm Layers: Maine weather in October can be unpredictable. Dress your children in layers to stay warm throughout the evening. Hats, gloves, and scarves are often necessary.
Adult Supervision: Young children should always be accompanied by a responsible adult. Older children should trick-or-treat in groups and establish a check-in time with you.
Communication: Make sure your children have a fully charged cell phone and know how to call you or emergency services (911) if needed. Ensure they know their full name, address, and phone number.
Practice Road Safety: Remind children to always look both ways before crossing the street, use sidewalks whenever possible, and cross at crosswalks.

During Trick-or-Treating:

Stick to Familiar Neighborhoods: Encourage children to only visit homes with the porch light on and to avoid dark or isolated areas.
Stay on Walkways: Use sidewalks and walkways whenever possible. If there are no sidewalks, walk on the side of the road facing traffic. Be extra cautious in rural areas with limited sidewalks.
No Entering Homes: Remind children to never enter a stranger's home or car.
Respect Property: Be respectful of property and avoid walking through lawns or gardens.
Pet Safety: Be aware of pets, especially dogs, that may be present at homes. Keep a safe distance and avoid startling them.

After Trick-or-Treating:

Inspect the Treats: Before your children eat any candy, carefully inspect all treats for signs of tampering or damage. Discard any unwrapped or suspicious-looking items.
Allergies: If your child has food allergies, read all labels carefully and discard any treats that contain allergens. Consider participating in the Teal Pumpkin Project to support children with allergies.
Moderation: Remind children to enjoy their treats in moderation.

Other Key Reminders:

Watch Out for Wildlife: While uncommon, be aware of the potential for encountering wildlife while walking in the dark.
Rural Road Safety: Be extra cautious on rural roads with limited lighting and higher speed limits. Motorists should be extra vigilant for pedestrians.
Cold Weather Preparedness: As mentioned above, be prepared for cold temperatures and potential for rain or even snow.
Safe Maineiac Program: Adults have fun and celebrate Halloween too. Have a plan to get home safe and sober. 101st ARW Command Post 1-207-404-7788.

Have a Spooktacular and Safe Halloween!

10/29/2025

The Meals 4 MAINEiacs food pantry is open to all members of the Maine National Guard (Army and Air) who are feeling financial strain.

We’ve been extremely fortunate and received significant donations in the past week. Please come down and pick up some food for you and your family. We’ve got:
Canned vegetables
Pasta
Pasta sauce
Canned fruit
Cereal
Canned protein (tuna, chicken, spam, etc.)
Oatmeal
Instant potatoes
Coffee
Stuffing mix
Snack items for kid’s lunch bags
Pancake mix
Syrup
Peanut butter
Jelly
And much more

The pantry is in Bldg. 416, Bangor ANGB at the end of the hallway past the locker rooms.

If you need assistance getting food, please contact:
Mr. Andrew Matlins, M&FRPM, 207-404-7494
Ch. Philip Dow, Office (207) 430-6317 or Cell (207) 409-3230
Your 1st Sgt
Your chief

10/29/2025

During the continued Government Shutdown AFAS stands ready to help:
💰 Prepared to open pay gap assistance if Nov. 1 paychecks are delayed
🍎 Food assistance available for families in need
✅ Still processing applications for all other support programs

To learn more or apply for assistance visit www.afas.org

10/27/2025

• Veterans Crisis Line - 24/7, confidential crisis support for Veterans and their loved ones. Dial 988 then Press 1, chat online, or text 838255

24/7, confidential crisis support for Veterans and their loved ones. Contact the Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988 then Press 1, chat online, or text 838255.