The Power of Half its Sunday collections to a local charity. Baumberger remarked: "What will we learn by practicing the power of half? What will this program teach our children and youth? I cannot wait to find out." Melinda Gates, wife of Microsoft founder Bill Gates, said she was inspired by the Salwens' philanthropic efforts. On December 9, 2010, Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg (Facebook's CEO), and investor Warren Buffett signed a promise they called the "Gates-Buffet Giving Pledge", in which they promised to donate to charity at least half of their wealth. After launching the Giving Pledge, the Gates invited the Salwens to Seattle
USS Thomas S. Gates apprehended Jose Miguel Battle, Jr. the suspected leader of The Corporation, an organized crime outfit. "Thomas S. Gates" also provided an escort for the aircraft carrier through the Strait of Magellan. Due to poor weather in the Pacific, "Thomas S. Gates" exited the strait via the Smyth Channel and conducted a 36-hour transit through restricted maneuvering waters. "Thomas S. Gates" was the first "Ticonderoga"-class cruiser to make that transit. The cruiser returned to home port on 2 August 2004. Due to Hurricane Katrina, her last deployment was cut short. The crew was given leave to take care of their families