Norfolk Naval Shipyard Civilian Morale, Welfare and Recreation's Four Flags Cafe introduced a familiar brand of coffee to the shipyard through a re-brand opening event, Aug. 22.

Now, employees who need to fuel up on java can purchase Starbucks cold and hot beverages-and according to Cris Sigler, CMWR Director, the best part being the price, she said. "Our prices are competitive and affordable. You can get a venti (large) cup of Starbucks coffee for less than $2," she said.

"We are one of the few installations in the area to offer Starbucks," said Capt. Paul Amodio, NNSY Facility Manager. "Our goal is to make each eating facility a 'brand destination.'"

The new brand will also bring with it a new look to the Four Flags Cafe which includes signage, green shutters and an awning with matching outdoor tables and chairs as well as some curb appeal. "The cafe will really stand out. When you see it there will be no doubt it is a Starbucks," said Sigler.

Although Starbucks has been in the shipyard for approximately two months, it was important CMWR staff were trained and comfortable with serving the coffee before it was fully advertised. Now the staff can proudly wear the title 'barista' and can make any drink available at Starbucks which includes seasonal favorites. Four Flags Cafe will also carry other Starbucks items and treats such as mugs and biscotti.

"I encourage everyone to visit Four Flags, the ladies who work there, Kisha and Amy, know many of their customers by name and what they like to order," said Amodio. "They exemplify the spirit and energyy we want to see throughout our eating facilities."

The changes aren't just about the brand of coffee, said Sigler. They signify a much larger goal-to improve the overall CMWR dining services and introduce greater variety of food and beverages to match shipyard diversity.

"We want to fuel our people with good, quality foods for every meal and I want them to have a place they can consider a sanctuary from all the hard work of the day," said Sigler.

Some of the things that will be implemented are a centralized kitchen where items like salads and bakery are made. This creates consistency throughout the dining facilities to ensure the same quality, amount and ingredients are included in similar items. A centralized kitchen will also allow CMWR to be a better steward of resources, providing savings that can be returned back into the program.

Plans to renovate the Rusty Anchor are also on the horizon with the goal of it being a flagship location. Sigler hopes to get work started the first week of September and open the doors sometime in January.

The project will add new flooring and furniture and a food service area that allows customers to choose what they want. Ambient lighting will be added with fresh paint and an open kitchen, as most of the food service will be done right in front of the customer.

"I plan to also add a coffee and bakery center that includes both quick breakfast and lunch options," said Sigler. "My favorite part is adding a soup and seasonal salad bar which will provide fresh, local veggies and other healthy options."

The current plans include a conference room that will allow offices to have space for working lunches. A large hearth oven will also be added and used for baking things like pizza, homemade macaroni and cheese and casseroles as well as hand carved roast beef and turkey.

Sigler believes improving the CMWR will not only enhance the customer experience but also provide a return that will contribute to her employees training, career enhancement and recognition.

"I show up to work every day striving to make improvements and looking for ways to best support my employees as well as the shipyard employees," said Sigler.

Government workers are typically familiar with acronyms and one dear to Sigler is something she has learned from her own experiences known as "W.I.T.Y" (What's Important to You?).

"That's what I want to do with CMWR," said Sigler. "I want to make what is important to shipyard employees and our Sailors important to us and I want to make sure we take care of 'you.'"
Sigler

She also encourages employees to continue to share their comments and feedback with her through email as she realizes there are often growing pains with changes. She is continuously working towards higher quality, standards and services while offering reasonable and affordable prices.

"I want these improvements to say 'we will always be there for you' because we greet you with a smile, we fill your stomach with good food and we offer something that appeals to every employee and Sailor," said Sigler.

"We want that spirit to be what keeps you coming back for more."



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