Quality of Life

Quality of Life programs aboard NAS Whidbey Island are commonly cited as the Navy's best as evident of the Commander in Chief Installation Excellence Award for 2011. This was the third consecutive year the base took top air station honors, due in large part to the support provided to its servicemembers, families and community.

Each individual aboard the air station has an opportunity to voice their comments, concerns and kudos regarding services during a monthly Quality of Life Council. The council's membership includes senior Sailors from each command, who serve as representatives to their unit's needs, service providers and a guest speaker that provides additional education to the council.

Quality of Life services offered here are Fleet and Family Readiness covering Admiral Nimitz Galley; Child and Youth Programs; Family Housing; Fleet and Family Support Center; Morale, Welfare & Recreation; Navy Gateway Inns & Suites; and Unaccompanied Housing.

Other services listed here round out NAS Whidbey Island's full complement of lifestyle services.

Admiral Nimitz Hall
(360) 257-2711/2714
Accredited as a 5-Star dining facility, Admiral Nimitz Hall has maintained a long-standing reputation as one of the Navy's finest messes. In 2010, Admiral Nimitz Hall was selected as the runner-up in the CONUS Ashore category for the Edward F. Ney Memorial Award for Outstanding Food Service Operation. Meeting the nutritional needs of 1,200 military and authorized personnel on a daily basis, customers are able to enjoy a choice of entrees, a full-service Speed Line, Specialty Bar, an expansive Salad Bar and Chuck Wagon service on the flight line. The daily menu recording is available at (360) 257-CHOW, or view the entire menu at http://www.navylifepnw.com.

Auto Hobby Shop
(360) 257-2295
Overhaul on your own time! The Auto Hobby Shop offers most equipment needed to maintain and repair your vehicle. Services offered include lifts, stalls, tool issue, parts delivery, welding equipment, paint booths, computer diagnostics, instructional booklets and more.

Bakerview Restaurant/Chiefs' Club
(360) 257-6587/2505
Bakerview Restaurant, the restaurant at the Chief Petty Officers' Club, has a longstanding tradition of delicious food at a reasonable price. Bakerview welcomes all military personnel and guests to dine. It features an exhibition kitchen, where you can relax at the dining bar and watch chefs cook up your meal.

Welcome to the finest Chiefs' Club in the Fleet. The club has over 900 active duty and retired members spanning all generations from the World War II era to present day. The Chiefs' Club is reserved to members and their guests (including E-7 to E-9 on temporary additional duty for up to 30 days).

Base Chapel
(360) 257-2414
The NAS Whidbey Island Religious Ministries Department (RMD) provides worship and ministry for all faith groups. Protestant and Roman Catholic programs are held weekly at the Chapel, with a Jewish service held monthly. Information on Muslim, Buddhist, Latter-day Saints and other worship opportunities in the area is also available at the Chaplain's Office.

Chaplains provide pastoral care and counseling for Active Duty, Reserve military personnel, Retirees and their family members. You may schedule appointments by calling or visiting the Chaplain's Office. Walk-in appointments are also available.

The Chapel/RMD Office hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Staff is also available on site during worship services and Chapel events.

After normal working hours and on weekends and holidays, you may reach the Duty Chaplain through the NAS Whidbey Island Quarterdeck at (360) 257-2631.

Roman Catholic
• Sunday Morning Mass, 9:15 a.m.
• Tuesday Weekday Mass, 11:45 a.m.
• Confessions: Scheduled with the Priest
• Religious Education Classes:
CCD (During school year only)
Sunday: High School, 10:30 a.m. to noon
Monday: K-8th grade, 6:15 to 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday RCIA (Adult), 6 to 8 p.m.

Protestant
• Sunday Open Christian Worship, 11 a.m.
• Sunday Children's Church, 11 a.m.
• Sunday Fellowship Hour, Noon
• First Sunday of each month:
Potluck Supper, Noon
• 2nd and 4th Fridays "Just Up The Street," 7 to 10 p.m.

Jewish
• Shabbat Service: 3rd Thursday, 6:30 p.m.
• Special Holiday/High Holy Day Celebrations throughout the year
• Weekly Bible Studies (Call office for current schedule) for men, women, mixed, teens, etc. on timely topics of interest.

"Just-Up-The-Street (JUTS)" is a unique program for Sailors and Marines. JUTS is held every Friday night at Barracks 12 in the common area from 7 to 10 p.m. It begins with games, followed by a free meal, music and a brief, but lively, discussion of current issues of interest to those who attend.

Building Healthy Marriages is held at the Chapel every two months. Based on the popular PREP program, this free two-day seminar is for couples who are engaged or married who wish to make a good relationship better, or perhaps needs a tune-up. This skills-based communication clinic is also a requirement for those wishing to get married in the Chapel, regardless of faith group.

Other special events include the annual Harvest Festival around Halloween, the Chapel Easter Egg Hunt, Concerts on the Lawn and seasonal events at Easter and Christmas.

Catering
Chiefs' Club
(360) 257-2891

Officers' Club
(360) 257-2521

NAS Whidbey Island offers complete catering for any occasion at a variety of facilities on base property. Quality catering is available at affordable prices and menus can be customized to suit any event. Specialties include retirements, changes of command, holiday parties, weddings, birthdays and more.

Child Development Centers (CDC)
(360) 257-3302
NAS Whidbey Island offers center-based care for children 6 weeks to 5 years of age in two Child Development Centers.

The 30,000 square foot Regatta Child Development Center opened in December 2011 and features 17 classrooms, an indoor activity room, four playgrounds, a full kitchen and a laundry room. The center has the capacity to provide care for 218 children, tripling the air station's capabilities for center-based care.

The Clover Child Development Center, located just two blocks away from the Regatta Center, was completed in January 1984 and has the capacity to house 115 children. Its features include eight classrooms, four playgrounds, a full kitchen and a laundry room.

Both centers have full-time developmental programs, providing the best possible care in a safe and healthy environment. Developmental activities for each age group are offered to promote physical coordination, social interaction, emotional growth and creative expression. Concept building and learning readiness are enhanced in a fun and stimulating atmosphere. Activities include music and movement, exercise, outdoor play, small muscle coordination, supervised play in the learning center, story time and creative art.

Special enrichment activities and programs such as field trips, parent/child classes and holiday celebrations are scheduled as appropriate. Breakfast, lunch and afternoon snacks are served daily as required by the USDA Food Program.

Care at the Child Development Centers is primarily geared toward those needing full-time childcare. Hourly care is available on a daily basis, during regular hours and may be reserved up to 30 days in advance. Whether using the centers full time, or on an hourly basis, registration is required. Parents may register their child at either center or at the Child Development Homes administration office at the Nor'Wester. Hours of operation for both centers are Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., excluding all federal holidays.

Child Development Homes
(360) 257-6861
Home-based providers offer ages 6 weeks to 12 years the same level of high quality care found in the Child Development Center, but are able to offer more flexibility in services. Many providers offer full-time, part-time, hourly care, extended hours, evening and weekend childcare. Parents may register their child or apply to become a provider at Building 13 of the Seaplane Base.

To register, call (360) 257-6861 or visit their offices at the Nor'Wester: 3675 W. Lexington, Building 2556.

Convergence Zone
(360) 257-2432/2702
Convergence Zone is truly a place where a range of interests, an array of people and a variety of entertainment come together! It is an excellent venue for birthday parties, command functions, playgroup meetings and more.

Convergence Zone features 12 lanes of bowling, an indoor playground, toddler play area, two indoor batting cages, billiards, air hockey, foosball, ping pong, shuffleboard, online computers, Wii, X-Box 360's, wi-fi, copy/print/fax services and reservations and check-in for Cliffside, Rocky Point and Costen-Turner Parks. The below-listed programs and services are also located inside the Convergence Zone:

Back Alley Bar
(360) 257-4847
This laid-back lounge inside the Convergence Zone features a jukebox, pool tables, a dance floor and other entertainment. It's available to all hands and open seven days a week.

Kegler's
(360) 257-1567
Kegler's is a casual eatery most popular for its pizza, subs, burgers, grinders and Philly cheese-steak sandwiches. Kegler's offers delivery to Ault Field and Whidbey Apartments with a minimum order.

Crescent Harbor Adventures
(360) 257-4842
The Pacific Northwest is one of the most outdoor-oriented duty stations in the country! An experienced staff can assist customers in selecting the right gear for outdoor activities, whether it is a rental or special order. Rentals include motorized and human-powered boats, fishing and crabbing equipment, camping gear, snowshoes and mountaineering rentals. Programs include white-water rafting, kayaking trips and lessons, backpacking, hiking, mountaineering, snowshoeing and more. Moorage for your vessel is on a space-available basis.

Defense Commissary Agency (DECA)
(360) 257-3318/3319
The NAS Whidbey Island Commissary completed an addition and renovation in April 2004 at a cost of approximately $9.5 million. The total store and receiving area increased from 39,408 sq. ft. to 67,612 sq. ft.

In September 2007, the Commissary upgraded to a new IBM front end checkout system, providing updated electronic check processing along with four Self Checkout Stations along with 12 registers.

Located opposite the Navy Exchange, the Commissary has a newly expanded fresh produce, meat, deli/bakery, sushi bar, rotisserie chicken, freshly made sandwiches along with a new enhanced fresh seafood section. The store added the Wellness Center, Wall of Value which includes Club Packs, Storewide Organics and Diet Section. DeCA's most important goal is to preserve and enhance this valuable benefit by providing outstanding customer service and providing quality products at the lowest cost possible. Visit http://www.commissaries.com.

Deployment Parking
(360) 257-2420
For deploying commands, the long-term parking lot adjacent to the Gym and Fitness Center is ideal for vehicle storage and available to both Unaccompanied Housing residents and those ending rental leases in the community. Fenced-in areas provide improved security; arrange for a free reservation at the Gym and Fitness Center. A valid driver's license, proof of insurance and an up-to-date base decal is required for storage.

Fleet and Family Support Center
(360) 257-NAVY (6289)
http://www.navylifepnw.com/site/325/FFSP.aspx
http://www.nffsp.org
http://www.militaryonesource.com
The Fleet and Family Support Center is located at the Nor'Wester (Building 2556). Core programs are offered in three major areas: Deployment/Readiness, Career Support/Retention and Crisis Response.

Deployment/Readiness
(360) 257-NAVY (6289)
Deployment/Readiness programs include the Command Representative program that provides outreach and liaison to ashore and afloat commands through an individualized command delivery service.

Deployment Support programs include training and education programs to address deployment related issues during all phases of deployment. Programs are designed for service members as well as family members. Additionally, return and reunion teams are deployed to returning commands and de-mobilized units to help facilitate an easier transition.

Information and Referral services provide accurate resources and information on military and community agencies, schools, social services, childcare, housing and medical services.

The Exceptional Family Member (EFM) Program Liaison provides one-on-one consultation, information and referral, workshops and seminars in support of the EFM Program.

The Fleet and Family Support Center provides logistical and administrative support to the Ombudsman Program. Standardized training is coordinated and offered to commands on a regular basis. Consultation is provided to commands on the effective use and recognition of ombudsmen, as well as to the ombudsmen to assist them in their duties.

Personal and family Life Skills Education is available to address parenting, communication and relationships, stress management and suicide prevention.

The New Parent Support Program offers a home visitation program to provide support and education to new and expectant parents.

Career Support/Retention
(866) 854-0638 (regional class registration
and appointment phone number)
http://www.militaryhomefront.dod.mil
Career Support/Retention programs are designed to assist service members and their families with mobility and career issues associated with the military lifestyle.

The Relocation Assistance Program (RAP) provides relocation information for both outbound and inbound personnel. Materials, classes and individual assistance are available upon request to assist commands and individuals with relocation concerns. Military HomeFront is a web-based information service that provides updated, current information on military installations worldwide. Topics link to resources on schools, medical services, maps, housing, temporary lodging, cost of living and community activities. Loaner kits and futons are available for check-out to assist with temporary lodging needs until household goods arrive. Sponsor training is available to commands upon request.

The Transition Assistance Program (TAP) provides transitioning personnel and family members with information and resources for career planning, financial management, employment assistance and referrals for the social and emotional issues connected with transition. Regularly scheduled skill building classes and workshops include TAP seminars for retiring and separating personnel as well as Washington State Employment, Federal Resume Writing and CONSEP seminars for both first term and mid career personnel. Commands may request additional topics for General Military Training. Spouses are also encouraged to attend. Additional employment resources and classes are available through the local Work Source office.

The Personal Financial Management (PFM) Program promotes economic stability through financial education classes and individual consultation. Topics include Home Buying, Car Buying, Investment Strategies, Debt Management, Thrift Savings Program, Identity Theft and Payday Lending. PFM instructors are also responsible for training Command Financial Specialists (CFS), both initially and in-depth with advanced workshops throughout their duty as CFS's.

The Family Employment Readiness Program addresses job search challenges with local job listings, workshops and individual consultations to assist military family members in maintaining a career of their own. Additional employment resources and classes are available through the local Work Source office.

Crisis Response
(866) 854-0638
Crisis Response programs address contingency planning for large-scale disaster/threatcon response, crisis intervention and clinical counseling. Clinical Counseling offers individual, couples or family counseling on a personal and confidential basis. Classes are also provided on topics such as anger/stress management, communication and parenting.

The Family Advocacy Program partners with commands to prevent child and spousal abuse. It promotes effective intervention and encourages healthy family education programs. Services include prevention education, crisis intervention, case management, treatment and counseling.

The Domestic Abuse Victim Advocate (DAVA) provides confidential services to victims in areas of legal and medical advocacy, crisis intervention, support and safety planning, and information and referrals.

The Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) Program is a comprehensive service that supports victims through medical, investigative and legal systems. SAPR advocates are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to provide confidential information, options and support.

Gallery Golf Course
(360) 257-2178
Gallery is a beautifully maintained 18-hole golf course. Open year-round, its services include lessons, tournaments, a driving range, pro shop, resale, special orders and equipment rentals. Tee time reservations are available every day. Gallery is open to the public.

Duffer's Deli
(360) 257-5050
Duffer's is located at Gallery Golf Course. Offering sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, beverages and a breathtaking view, it's a great way to wrap up a day of golf. Duffer's is open during the peak golf season.

General Quarters Paintball
(360) 257-2432/2702
Adrenaline, strategy, skill and speed combine in exhilarating thrills on two separate fields. On the speedball field, enjoy high-energy action, ducking behind a series of inflatable bunkers on a 190 by 115-foot field. The ever-evolving woodsball field encourages scenario play with its own unique set of natural foxholes, hideaways and fortresses. The field is open to those 18 and up with a signed hold-harmless agreement and ages 10-17 when a parent signs a hold-harmless agreement and accompanies the player on site. Service members E-3 and below receive a waived field fee and reduced prices on starter play packages.

Gym & Fitness Center
(360) 257-2420
This 55,000 square foot facility provides complete athletic and fitness services. Extensive cardio and strength apparatus comprise the facility's equipment. The Fitness Center and its surrounding area also feature a steam room, sauna, racquetball courts, basketball court, volleyball court, tennis courts, batting cage, the Fit Dome, baseball fields, football fields, family fitness room and the Seaview Trail, a scenic 3.3-mile marked jogging trail. Programs include intramural sports, group fitness classes and run/walk events. Intramural sports form at various times of the year and include softball, golf, soccer, basketball and football.

The Family Fitness Room is a family-friendly zone for parents to work out while watching their children. A parent or legal guardian must remain in the Family Fitness Room with direct line-of-sight supervision with their children.

Although NAS Whidbey Island does not have a recreational swimming facility, MWR has partnerships with local pools: Anacortes's Fidalgo Pool, where active duty may swim free of charge; http://www.fidalgopool.com, (360) 293-0673; and Oak Harbor's Vanderzicht Pool, where active duty swim free of charge and, family members and retirees swim at a reduced rate; http://www.oakharborpool.com, (360) 675-7665.

Information, Tickets & Tours (ITT)
(360) 257-2432/2702
ITT is the place to purchase discount tickets for Northwest sporting events, cinemas, theater performances, special events and local attractions. Discounts are also available for California and Florida attractions. By working closely with the venues and promoters, MWR reserves seats months in advance which qualifies the military customers for special group rates and great seats. And, by avoiding the major ticket outlets, ITT customers save on taxes and fees. Sponsored by ITT, Military Merits is Navy Region Northwest's one-stop online shop for military community discounts on entertainment, recreation, lodging, services and more. Visit http://www.militarymerits.com for information on discounts and how to obtain them.

ITT also coordinates regular trips and tours throughout the region. The Northwest offers a short drive to the ocean, lakes, mountains, rainforest, farmland, wine country and several major cities. ITT offers several trips each month, as well as the "Design a Trip" option, in which customers can plan an outing with their group, where they want to go, on their own time.

Jim Creek Wilderness
Recreation Area
(425) 304-5315
Located in the foothills of the North Cascade Mountains, Jim Creek serves as a Naval Radio Station and a regional outdoor recreation area for active duty personnel, reservists, retired military, DoD civilians and sponsored guests. It is just outside of Arlington, Wash., about one and a half hours southeast of Oak Harbor. With over 5,000 acres, mostly wilderness, Jim Creek offers a wide variety of recreation opportunities. Twin Lakes are famous for great fishing, boating and wildlife viewing. Jim Creek abounds with fish, wildlife and northwest flora. You'll find a group lodge that is perfect for retreats and seminars. Guest quarters, group camps, picnic pavilions, cabins, RV sites, campsites, a playground, two furnished suites, showers, boat rentals, hiking and biking trails, breathtaking scenic viewpoints, a 50-foot Alpine climbing tower and seasonal programs round out the highlights of this unique recreational area.

Liberty Northwest
(360) 257-3309
Liberty Northwest is primarily for young, enlisted service members, however all unaccompanied personnel assigned to U.S. Navy installations are eligible to participate. The Liberty Northwest Center, located inside Admiral Nimitz Hall, boasts a movie room, complete with a 62-inch television, 12 oversized Lazyboy® recliners and surround sound, X-Box 360's, a Nintendo Wii, online computers, Wi-Fi, a sound proof music booth with instruments, billiards, foosball, a ping pong table and more. Activities include instructional classes, concerts, outdoor excursions, volunteer opportunities, overnight trips and holiday events. Children under 18 are not permitted on Liberty trips and tours or inside Liberty centers.

Naval Hospital Oak Harbor
(360) 257-9500
The 12-bed hospital is located on NAS Whidbey Island. It is one of three rural community hospitals within a 40-mile radius. The hospital is a TRICARE Prime facility that serves active duty, their family members, eligible retired military personnel and their families. Normal hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Ambulatory services include Dental Clinic, Urgent Care Services, Family Medicine, General Surgery, Internal Medicine, Labor and Delivery, Laboratory, Pharmacy, Radiology, Mental Health, OB/GYN, Occupational Health, Operational/Flight Medicine, Deployment Health Center, Optometry Clinic, Orthopedic Clinic, Pediatrics, Same-Day Surgery, Physical Therapy, Preventive Medicine, and a Substance Abuse and Rehabilitation Program.

The Urgent Care Clinic is open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Patients who need treatment or consultation beyond the scope of services provided by this facility are referred to other military hospitals, or civilian facilities. Active Duty Sick Call hours are from Monday through Friday, 7 to 8:30 a.m. and is located in the Flight Medicine Clinic.

Family Medicine is an "open access" clinic which means you should have same day access to your primary care provider. Appointments are available by calling the TRICARE Regional Appointment Center (TRAC) at (800) 404-4506.

TriWest Healthcare Alliance operates a TRICARE Service Center inside the hospital. Beneficiary services representative at the TSC are available Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. to answer questions on eligibility, TRICARE Prime enrollment, claims processing and more. To contact a customer service representative, call TriWest at (888) 874-9378, or visit http://www.triwest.com.

The hospital's pharmacy is located in the hospital. It's open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (civilian prescriptions filled only from 8 a.m. to 5:45 p.m.) and Saturday, Sunday and holidays, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (civilian prescriptions are not filled on weekends and holidays).

The DoD TRICARE Mail Order Pharmacy (TMOP) is available to receive up to a 90-day supply for most medications you take regularly. For more information on TMOP, call (866) 363-8667, or visit their website at http:// www.express-scripts.com/tricare.

Naval Hospital Oak Harbor has three state-of-the-art Labor and Delivery rooms that rival those in major civilian hospitals. Stork parking and Video-teleconferencing for deployable dads are also available for new parents. Health Promotions offer a wide range of classes including Tobacco Cessation, Weight Management, Shipshape, Healthy Heart and Diabetes Self-Management.

Dental provides a full spectrum of care to all military personnel attached to the air station and tenant activities. Clinic hours are Monday through Friday, 7:15 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.

Sick Call hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. and 1 to 2 p.m. Call (360) 257-2301 for routine appointments and information, and (360) 929-2140 for after-hours emergencies.

Since family members are not seen at this facility for dental care, active duty members are strongly encouraged to enroll their family in the TRICARE Family Member Dental Plan (TFMDP) operated by United Concordia. For more information on TFMDP benefits, call (800) 866-8499, or visit their website at http://www.TRICAREdentalprogram.com.

Navy College Program
(360) 257-3027
DSN 820-3027
NCO.WhidbeyIsland@navy.mil
The Navy College Office oversees the entire post secondary education program on board NAS Whidbey Island. They currently have two on-base colleges who provide in-seat as well as on-line courses and degree programs. They are: Brandman University and Columbia College. There are also several other Navy College Distance Learning Partner colleges who visit the base periodically to meet with those interested in their on-line degree opportunities. Pre-college courses, certifications, technical and traditional degrees are available.

The program relocated to the Naval Operational Support Center, on Midway Street, in Building 2739 during June 2011, with the exception of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) which moved not far from the base for greater flexibility and enhanced opportunities. All on-base colleges have full-time staff to assist your educational needs. Individual courses and complete degree programs are available at the Associate, Bachelor and Graduate levels and many are also available completely on-line. To contact any one of the on-base partners, call, e-mail or visit their website.

Brandman University
(Chapman University System)
(360) 257-1277
whidbeyisland@brandman.edu
http://www.brandman.edu/whidbeyisland

Columbia College
(360) 279-9030
ask@ccis.edu
http://www.ccis.edu/nationwide/main.asp?
Whidbey
All colleges on base are open to any adult learner with base access. To be partnered with Navy College, schools are required to maintain membership in the Service-member Opportunity College Navy (SOCNAV) and Service-member Opportunity College Marine Corps (SOCMAR) network for their Associate and Bachelor degree programs. They are Regionally Accredited as recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and also licensed by Washington State.

Degree programs affiliated with SOCNAV/ SOCMAR are typically available throughout the Naval and Marine Corps community worldwide, which affords active duty and their adult family members' maximum flexibility and guaranteed transferability of college credit from one member institution to another. These schools also award credit and advanced standing in their SOCNAV/SOCMAR affiliated degrees for military training and experience as reflected on the member's Sailor-Marine ACE Registry Transcript (SMART) or prior learning experiences. Additionally, they award college credit for courses challenged through examination as offered through the DANTES testing program, managed by the Navy College Office.

A wide variety of exams are available through the DANTES Testing Program such as: interest and aptitude testing; GED for high school completion; CLEP and DSST course challenge exams; ACT and SAT college entrance exams— Excelsior College exams (formerly ACT/PEP)— and Professional Certification and Licensure Exams. Many of these exams are fully-funded for active duty members.

While spouses, retirees and civilians with base access may also take exams through the program, certain exams are restricted to active duty members only. When DANTES permits testing of spouses of active duty, retirees and others, it is at their expense and on a space-available basis.

Need a CLEP test?
Navy College Office is proud of a rather unique partnership with one of the on-base colleges, Columbia College, who agreed to assume the role of offering computer-based testing for 36 CLEP and 33 DSST course challenge exams. Students attending any college may take these exams through Columbia College and have their results transferred back to their school. By taking the CLEP and DSST exams through Columbia College you have the advantage of instantaneous scoring for all but only a couple of exams, such as those who require an essay in addition to the multiple choice part of the exam. To arrange for one of these exams, contact Columbia College at (360) 279-9030 for details.

Periodically other colleges, in addition to those above, are sponsored on board the base through the Navy College Office, in consultation with the Commanding Officer of the installation. These schools offer alternative degree programs in an on-line format and were selected as members of the Navy College Distance Learning Partnership Program. They are also SOCNAV members and hold regional accreditation. To explore degree options with anyone of these schools, you'll need to schedule an appointment with one of their counselors at the Navy College Office, or sign up to speak directly to the school representative by calling (360) 257-3027. For a complete listing of these schools, and other information about their on-line programs, you may visit the "Navy College Distance Learning Partnership" link at http://www.navycollege.navy.mil.

Navy College Office publishes a monthly calendar accessible through the internet and also provided to on-base employees through the base Public Affairs Office via e-mail. If you would like for a monthly calendar to be e-mailed to your home each month, send your home e-mail address to NCO.WhidbeyIsland@navy.mil with the words "Calendar Request" in the subject line.

Financial Assistance
Tuition funding for active duty members is by far the most popular aspect of the many services offered by the Navy College Office. A mandatory orientation class is required before submitting a Tuition Assistance application and annually thereafter, while working on a degree. During orientation, students will learn how to effectively research colleges, learn about the differences in accreditation, and how to choose a quality program of study with a school that meets appropriate accreditation for their needs. In addition, students will learn about other types of financial assistance available. These sessions are currently held twice each week: Tuesday at 11 a.m. and Thursday at 2:30 p.m. While reservations are not required, students need to arrive a few minutes early as late seating is not allowed.

Courses at Sea
For those serving in a Sea Duty type 2 or 4 commands, and Individual Augmentees (IAs), the Navy College Office also provides NCPACE Orientation Services. NCPACE, or Navy College Program Afloat College Education, is a contracted program owned by the Naval Education and Training Command and overseen by the Center for Personal and Professional Development through their Navy College Offices worldwide. This program is uniquely designed to help Sailors who are forward deployed with their educational needs.

The program is coordinated by the participating command who requests NCPACE Orientation Services by calling the primary Navy College Office where they are home-ported. The program is available to ship's company, submariners, squadron personnel deploying to ships, as well as expeditionary squadrons and IA's. The program may be made available to commands on a year-round basis depending upon their deployable status and their desire.

Squadrons interested in taking the NCPACE program on deployment should contact the Navy College Office at the beginning of their work-up cycle to request NCPACE orientation services. This ensures ample time is allowed for logistical concerns. IA's are encouraged to contact Navy College Office as soon as they know of their IA status for guidance.

Navy Exchange
Seaplane Base
Full line Retail Store (360) 257-0600
Electronics (360) 257-0540
Jewelry (360) 257-0541
Barber/Beauty (360) 257-0530
Optical (360) 257-0533
Northwest Shop (360) 257-0538
Human Resources (360) 257-0605

Gas Station/Convenience
Gas, Food and Beverage (360) 257-0537
Furniture and Major Appliances
(360) 257-4663

Ault Field
Ault Field Fleet Store (360) 257-0524
Barber (360) 257-0511
Espresso (360) 257-0512
Uniforms/Tailoring/ Dry Clean/Embroidery (360) 257-0507
Vending (360) 257-0517

Autoport
Gas, auto parts and repairs (360) 257-0628
Enterprise Car Rental (360) 257-5355

Outlying Locations
(Hospital) Snack Bar (360) 257-0623
FRCNW Snack Bar (360) 257-0622
Hangar 6 Snack (360) 257-0625
Hangar 6 Barber (360) 257-0049
(Navy Gateway Inn & Suites)
Barber (360) 257-2475

Reasons to shop at the Navy Exchange
Selection - Navy Exchange Mission: To provide Navy Exchange customers quality goods and services at a savings, and to support quality of life programs. Find what you need at "Your Navy Exchange," electronics, appliances, furniture, apparel, cosmetics; a wide variety for every need at the best value.

Quality of Life - Each time you buy at the Navy Exchange, you add to the quality of Navy life through Navy Exchange profits that support Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) programs.

Guaranteed Satisfaction - Your Navy Exchange will match the price of any identical item sold in any local competitor's store, same brand, size, manufacturer's model number. The exchange "Satisfaction Guaranteed" return policy means they will either issue a refund or make an equitable price adjustment when merchandise doesn't live up to your expectations.

Store Brands - Store brands offer the same quality as national brands with a savings of 20 to 40 percent every day.

Credit - The exclusive Military Star Credit Card has no annual fee, low interest rate and can be used at all military exchanges.

Connect with the NEX on Facebook® for exclusive offers and special events! Sign up to receive sales information, Go to https://www.mynavyexchange.com

Navy Flying Club
(360) 679-IFLY
Have you always dreamed of being able to fly an airplane? Imagine the joy of soaring on your own above the beauty of the great Northwest. The Whidbey Island Navy Flying Club can make that dream of flight a reality. The club has certified flight instructors who can provide the best training possible, putting students in the cockpit of an airplane efficiently and effectively. Train to earn any of the following certifications: Private Pilot License, Commercial Pilot Rating, Instrument Rating or Certified Flight Instructor. Discovery flights are additionally available to those who would like to see if aviation is meant for them. They include a full flight lesson, pre-flight orientation, operation of the flight controls, airport familiarization and landing, as well as pilot log book with flight entry.

Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society
(360) 257-2728
The Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) is a volunteer-based organization and is located on the Seaplane Base in Building 13. It's a nonprofit charitable organization designed to provide, in partnership with the Navy and Marine Corps, financial, educational and other assistance to members of the Navy and Marine Corps and their eligible family members, as well as retirees and widows when in need.

The office is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Those on emergency leave are seen first priority as walk-ins. For after-hours emergency assistance, call (877) 272-7337. NMCRS offers budget counseling, education loans and grants, and financial assistance in the form of loans and grants to meet emergencies such as funeral expenses, medical and dental bills, emergency transportation, food, rent and utilities, disaster relief assistance and essential car repairs.

The NMCRS Whidbey office also has a Visiting Nurse who is available to make hospital or home visits to eligible clients in the interest of improving their quality of life by promoting understanding of information about the individual's health issues. Visits are frequently made to new mothers and infants, to patients recovering from surgery and to patients with chronic health problems. The Visiting Nurse will see patients of any age.

NMCRS Whidbey Island also has a large Thrift Shop located at the same site. They have a large selection of uniforms and baby clothes. Hours of operation are Tuesday and Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and for military uniform shopping Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Donations are excepted Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

NMCRS has more than 3,000 trained volunteers, both ashore and aboard ships who accomplishes the major portion of the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society's work. There are many different volunteer positions available. If interested in making a difference in a Sailor or Marine's life, call at (360) 257-2728. For more information, visit http://www.nmcrs.org.

Officers' Club
(360) 257-2521
The Officers' Club serves lunch Monday through Friday and features wonderful homemade soup, a healthy salad bar and great daily lunch specials. The club truly caters to its members with many events during the year and happy hour every Friday.

Operation Uplift
(Forward Deployed Support)
(360) 257-9014
The mission of Operation Uplift is to support Sailors and their families during all phases of deployment by providing outstanding programs, customer service and morale to ensure each Sailor and family member has a successful deployment experience. Operation Uplift also supports remote detachment sites with recreational supplies, fitness equipment and holiday decorations. Operation Uplift serves as a resource for official command functions, providing equipment at no charge for homecomings, changes of command and command picnics. Operation Uplift's offices are located in the Admiral Nimitz Hall.

Pacific Beach Resort
& Conference Center
(888) 463-6697
Perched on a bluff overlooking the scenic coast of Washington State, Pacific Beach is the perfect location for combining business with pleasure. Accommodations and amenities include: three and four bedroom cottages, hotel rooms and suites, an RV park, the Windjammer Restaurant and Lounge, a conference center, catering services, a fitness room, sauna, hot tub, bowling alley, volleyball, horseshoes and a complete game room. Pacific Beach is an approximate four-hour drive from NAS Whidbey Island.

Parks, Campgrounds & Memorials
Cliffside RV Park
(360) 257-2702/2432
When Cliffside re-opens from construction in Spring 2012, campers can expect the following services and amenities: full water, electrical and sewer hookups; 60 RV sites; 10 tent-camping sites; six furnished yurts; new restroom and shower facilities; coin-operated laundry services and WiFi access.

Rocky Point Park
(360) 257-2432/2702
Rocky Point Park, adjacent to Gallery Golf Course, has breathtaking views overlooking the Strait of Juan de Fuca, Vancouver Island, the San Juan Islands and the Olympic Peninsula. It is located on a bluff with stairs leading to the beach. Rocky Point Recreation Area can accommodate groups of 25 to 150 for functions by paying a refundable deposit. It is ideal for changes of command, family functions and other special events. Facilities include an indoor sheltered building (Can-Do-Inn), picnic tables, horseshoe pits, a playground, volleyball area and restrooms.

Prowler Memorial Park
This park was dedicated on Aug. 28, 1998 and features blue granite tiles bearing the names of Navy or Marine EA-6B aircrew or maintenance personnel killed in an EA-6B mishap. In addition to remembering those who were lost, it is an inspiration to those in the Prowler community who carry on their legacy.

Costen-Turner Memorial Park
This expanse of land is named for Lt. Tom Costen and Lt. Charlie Turner of VA-155, whose A-6 Intruder was shot down over Iraq on the first night of Desert Storm. The park was dedicated in 1995. Organized groups can reserve the park which features picnic areas, a quarter-mile track, a softball field, children's play area and gazebo. Contact the Convergence Zone for reservations.

POW-MIA Sentinel Memorial
Feb. 14, 1987 marks the dedication of this memorial, which sits on a landscaped pavilion overlooking the Seaplane Base. The memorial consists of a contemporary acrylic sculpture set in a concrete fountain, flanked by American and POW flags, which are flown perpetually, illuminated at night. It's dedicated to all American servicemen held as prisoners of war, those missing in action and those killed in action.

The Grind Skate Park
NAS Whidbey Island's Skate Park, The Grind, is located at the corner of Intruder and Princeton Streets, across the street from the base chapel. It features a series of challenging obstacles including a half pipe, grind box, pyramid, stairs, street ledge, quarter pipe and kicker ramp. The Grind is available for use every day from dawn to dusk.

Retired Activities Office (RAO)
(360) 257-8054/8055
The Retired Activities Office is located in Building 13 on the Seaplane Base. The all-volunteer staff is dedicated to keeping retirees and their families apprised of their benefits and informed of changes to policies and legislation. The greatest service provided by the RAO is assistance to new widows, including initial death reports and subsequent applications to the Defense Finance Accounting Service. Processing of Veterans' Administration and Social Security applications and benefits is also provided. Assistance is extended to all branches of the military. Volunteers are always sought to help at the RAO.

RV Storage
(360) 257-4842
Between vacations, for a small fee, you can store your RV in one of the two lots on the Seaplane Base and avoid the hassle of storing it in your driveway. The lot can accommodate vehicles up to 40 feet. Reservations and payments can be made at Crescent Harbor Adventures.

School Age Care
(360) 257-0889
School-Age Care Programs (SAC) provides organized and structured recreation and learning activities for school aged youth in kindergarten through fifth grade in Oak Harbor at the Youth Activities Center. Their mission is to empower the youth of today to become the leaders of tomorrow by providing opportunities for positive social growth through enrichment activities in a fun, safe and nurturing environment. SAC offers before and after school care to children attending five elementary schools in Oak Harbor. Affiliated with the Boys & Girls Club of America and 4-H, School Age Care provides weeklong summer specialty camps and special events, for ages 3 - 18, and trips for youth. Day camp programs are offered during school holidays and summertime. Register at the Youth Activities Center, 54 Wake Ave., Building 2874, Oak Harbor. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

School Liaison Officer
(360) 257-6863
The School Liaison Officer is the central point of contact for school-related matters between NAS Whidbey Island commands, military families and local school systems. This office specializes in serving military students and families, and offers a wide spectrum of services, including school transition support (Permanent Change of Station cycle); deployment support; special education system navigation; communication between the command, educator, community and parents; Partnerships In Education, home school support and post-secondary preparation. Offices are at the Nor'Wester, 3675 W. Lexington, in Building 2556.

Skywarrior Theater
24-hour movie info line (360) 257-5537
Have a seat and enjoy the show at the Navy's first digital theater! Skywarrior shows high-quality digital movies every weekend. Programs include two Friday movies, a Saturday matinee and evening double feature, family day on Sundays, 3-D showings and full-length sneak previews. Skywarrior also specializes in birthday parties, command events and private showings.

Special Interest Groups
The Bow and Archery Club is comprised of over 200 members and meets regularly. If you would like to start a group for your hobby, contact the Recreation Director at (360) 257-6427.

Veterinary Treatment Facility
(360) 257-2001
Located in Building 13 of Seaplane Base, the veterinarian provides care for dogs and cats by appointment. Services offered include routine exams, micro-chipping, spaying/neutering, animal health certificates for travel, testing and vaccinations. They also treat minor illnesses and provide grooming products, flea treatments, heartworm preventatives and other items at reasonable prices. Some products require a visit, exam and/or prescription. Veterinary staff also provides complete medical care to military working dogs and works with Military Food Inspectors to provide food safety and quality assurance through the Commissary. They inspect food upon delivery and while in storage, inspect all operational rations and inspect commercial food plants.

Wheels and Deals Lot
(360) 257-4842
If you would like to get high visibility for a vehicle you're selling, the Wheels and Deals Lot on the Seaplane Base is the perfect spot. The location brings plenty of traffic to a vehicle for sale. Reservations and payments can be made at Crescent Harbor Adventures.

Youth & Teen Program
(360) 257-3150
This program, for those in grades 6-12, is housed in the state-of-the-art Youth Activities Center. Completed in 2004, the facility boasts pool tables, air hockey, computers, video games, chess, basketball, foosball, ping pong and a rock climbing wall. Teens and youth can join one of the many clubs, which include community service, art programs, a homework assistance program and more. This program, which is affiliated with the Boys & Girls Club of America and 4-H, also provides weeklong summer specialty camps and special events, for ages 3-18, and trips for kids in middle school and high school. The Youth Activities Center is located at 54 Wake Ave., Building 2874, Oak Harbor. Call for hours of operation, which are typically after-school.