Family Matters November 2013 by NCNG Family Programs

Family Matters

NCNG Family Programs, Volume 5, Issue 11

Look Inside:

Dozens of Employment Opportunities this November

Know how the North Carolina National Guard Employment & Education Center Helps You Prepare

Teen Scene Teen Council Meetings Open Houses And More...

Veteranâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Discounts, Deals and Freebies

Military Family Appreciation Month Print your very own Custom North Carolina National Guard Military Family Appreciation Bookmark

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FAMILY MATTERS

NCNG Family Programs FAMILY MATTERS NOVEMBER 2013 Diane Coffill State Family Program Director diane.l.coffill.civ@mail.mil (919) 664-6324 MSG Ramona Scott Family Programs Specialist ramona.k.scott.mil@mail.mil (919) 664-6000 Ext. 47005 SGT Tammy Fowler Family Programs Assistant tammy.l.fowler.mil@mail.mil (919) 664-6000 Ext 46876 Lana Greer State FAC Coordinator lana.m.greer.ctr@mail.mil (800) 621-4136 Ext. 11667 Terry Henderson Airman & Family Readiness Program Mgr. terry.henderson@ang.af.mil (704) 398-4949 Alice Dean Lead Child & Youth Coordinator alice.c.dean.ctr@mail.mil (800)621-4136 Ext 12183 Angelena Dockery Marketing & Communications Manager sallie.a.dockery.ctr@mail.mil (919) 485-9570 Kathryn Jarvis Marketing & Communications Manager kathryn.a.jarvis.ctr@mail.mil (919) 485-9571 Judy Richardson Senior FRSA judith.r.richardson.ctr@mail.mil (800) 621-4136 Ext. 11346

Inside this issue: Thank you to all our Military Families. In honor of our Military Families we share a custom Military Family Bookmark you may print and cutout. We hope that this simple gesture will serve as a reminder as to how much we appreciate you always; for your endurance, strength and unconditional support.

Yes , No Liver! NCNG Family Programs shares an authentic narrative regarding energy and nutrition.

Military Family Appreciation Month Custom Bookmark Help adorn a special tree dedicated to Military Families with your handmade ornament

Military Teen Council Meetings and Invitations Military Teens can be a part of the driving force in our youth programs by sharing unique insight and talents for the betterment of our communities across the state.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Helping a Friend in an Unhealthy Relationshipâ&#x20AC;? Military One Source provides an article specific to teens about how they can navigate through friendships that need support. The Affordable Healthcare Act and the VA

NCNG Education and Employment Center Raleigh, NC

Unemployed and under-employed North Carolina Army and Air Guard Service members and their dependents now have direct support in the employment process. This month, we are showcasing part two of our six-part series of Fundraising. Part 2: FRGs with a checking account must have a Standard Operating Procedure, (SOP) per Army Regulation 608-1 Appendix J, paragraph 7c.

About Family Matters Family Matters was created to provide Servicemembers and Families the most up-to-date information and services available. If you would like to contribute to future issues, or if you have suggestions and comments, please contact the NCNG Family Programs Marketing and Communications Department personnel, Angelena Dockery or Kathryn Jarvis, at ncngfamilyprograms@gmail.com. EVersions of Family Matters can be downloaded at the NCNG Family Programs webpage at www.nc.ngb.army.mil. References in this newsletter to any specific commercial products, processes, services, or the use of any trade, firm, or corporation name does not constitute endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by NCNG Family Programs. Visual images are via bing.com and other free, online graphics.

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Director’s Column Hello All, As you probably noticed, we had to cancel some of our “usual” events due to the Government Shutdown, but we’re still here and ready to tackle November and the upcoming Holidays. So, it’s November and we have many things to celebrate this month. First, November is Military Family Appreciation Month. If you asked people for the definition of “Family” you would probably hear words like: spouse, mom, dad, children, sister, brother, grandma, grandpa, girlfriend, boyfriend, etc., but you might also hear: friends, neighbors, or even, co-workers (who are like Family), Battle Buddies, etc. Over the years of working in Family Programs, we’ve all learned that “Family” can be defined in many different ways, and this month WE, and YOU, need to say “Thank You” to your “Family” (no matter who or how many) that really is. So, from me and all in Family Programs, I want to THANK ALL of our National Guard Families for supporting, not ONLY your Service Members, children, and other Family members, but for supporting the Nation. I also want to THANK all of you for allowing us to be part of your lives, whether it’s been through talking with you on the phone, meeting you in person, talking with you at events, supporting your children, etc. ... without YOU, there would be no us. To me, Military Family Appreciation Month is the perfect companion to Thanksgiving, also in November. The typical definition of “Thanksgiving” is “the expression of gratitude”. And, of course we always think of Thanksgiving being the beginning of the Holiday season. While gathering together is wonderful, it can also be stressful, exciting, tiring and joyful. So, as you’re preparing for those great Family dinners, wracking your brain about what to fix, and the stress begins to build, remember that we have resources that can help. Every day we meet more local businesses and organizations who want to make a difference in your lives. So, please remember your regional Family Assistance Center is still there to assist you. For many of you, they are still making monthly calls to see “how things are going.” Take advantage of those calls and let us know how we can assist you. You’ll see in the issue that we’re expanding our search for Teens who want to be involved with making lives better, including their own. By being part of one (1) of our Teens Councils, they not only gain leadership skills, make friends, but are provided with the opportunity to help shape the future of how we can assist, and communicate with our youth, in addition to having some fun. Please look for the information on the Teen Council Open Houses. BTW: it also provides Teens with the opportunity to “give back” and do some valuable community service (which always looks good on College applications)!

I want to wish all of you a HAPPY THANKSGIVING and I look forward to seeing you in the near future.

Diane Coffill State Family Program Director

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FAMILY MATTERS

Yes, No Liver! By Kathryn Jarvis, NCNG Family Programs

In recent months, many friends and some co-workers have often started or ended a conversation with, I am so busy and tired, I have no energy or a statement relative to the two. So, like any other curious, over-thinker I ventured to find some common factors among them, which didn’t take long. The common factor was me. I was also tired, worn out or “energy deficient”, and this common factor between us all was easy to talk about and bound to be brought up.

So what makes us so tired…so energy deficient? Surely if researchers have studied the flow of ketchup there has to be reports on why someone might be tired? And there was tons of research. But most often appearing were tests linking energy levels to diet and exercise; including, what I currently deem, “blasphemous” studies about my beloved “side-kick,” coffee. Never the less, I did find many supplements and foods which can to help turn around that sluggish feeling and have longer lasting results than a cup-of-Joe. While not explicitly endangering my kamikaze for energy deficiency, certain foods like legumes (most often known as beans, but is also a fruit/seed from a pod like peas), fish, whole grains, beef and liver can assist in boosting energy. The Department of Uniform and Emergency Medicine, Uniform Services University of Health Sciences report, “Peak Performance Through Nutrition and Exercise” includes a comprehensive table outlining what vitamin helps with what function. In the table, the one most repetitive food relative to upping energy is liver. (Note: in the table Organ Meats is also listed; guess what, Liver is an organ meat.) Liver contains more than 10 vitamins and 7 minerals, providing the most of vitamins A, B-12 and of the mineral Iron, which are correlated with supporting energy. This bit of information further supports the benefits of liver.

Now for me, I can do many different foods. I even tried Alligator once, but liver, no-way and I am sure I am not the only one. For those who are fans, carry-on, go for it; Live-r on! As for the rest of us non-liver eaters, don’t throw in the towel just yet. There are alternative foods as well as supplements that can accommodate the needs for vitamins and minerals. So, there is hope and a bit of ammo to justify the disenchantment for liver. All-in-all, liver sounds great, if you can eat it. But there is a downside to liver. It contains the most of Vitamin A, which can also be very deadly in high doses. Several articles, reports and international governments have warned people about the effects of having too much of Vitamin A and caution pregnant women to be aware of vitamin A overload and the effects during pregnancy. So all you non-liver eaters, there is your ammo, as well as the top three things that liver provides. So instead of having to take a bite out of organ meat or some other delectable you don’t like, maybe nutritional supplements might be the way to get what you need for that boost of energy and yes, even the freedom to say no to liver. Kathryn Jarvis is neither a nutritionist nor a medical professional. Readers are to consult a medical professional. Information was compiled from The Department of Uniform and Emergency Medicine, Uniform Services University of Health Sciences and the US Department of Agriculture are not intended to be used for the medical care or treatment of any one person or disease.

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HELP US ADORN THE GOVERNORâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MILITARY TREE! ALL

SERVICE BRANCES WELCOME TO PARTICIPATE!

Military children are invited to make holiday ornaments to decorate a Military Tree featured at North Carolina's Executive Mansion this 2013 holiday season. The theme this year is patriotism. Please include child's first name, age, city and branch of

service affiliation. If this information can't be written on the ornament a small gift tag may be attached to the ornament. Ornaments are due by Friday, November 25. Mail to: North Carolina National Guard, Attn: Family Programs 1636 Gold Star Drive

Raleigh, NC 27607 or drop them off at a NC National Guard Family Assistance Center in your area. For questions, contact: Alice Dean NCNG Lead Child & Youth Coordinator alice.c.dean.ctr@mail.mil 800-621-4136 Ext. 12183 NOVEMBER 2013

FAMILY MATTERS

CHILD & YOUTH

RAISE YOUR HANDS IF YOU’RE SURE

NEW LOCATIONS

North Carolina National Guard teens are invited to be apart of our NCNG Teen Council. We have one going strong in the Triangle area and, we’re looking to expand across the State.

NEW! NCNG Teen Council Open House—Various Areas Dec. 3, 5:30 p.m.—8 p.m.:

Calvary West Camp, 155 Commerce Drive, Advance, NC 27006

Dec. 5, 5:30 p.m.—8 p.m.:

Charlotte NG Armory, 4240 West Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28208

Dec. 10, 5:30 p.m.—8 p.m.: Wilmington Armory, 2412 Infantry Road, Wilmington, NC 28405

Upcoming NCNG Teen Council Dates—Triangle Area Nov. 12, 5:30 p.m.—8 p.m.: Wake County Cooperative Extension Office, 4001 Carya Drive, Raleigh, NC 27610 Dec. 17, 5:30 p.m.—8 p.m.: Wake County Cooperative Extension Office, 4001 Carya Drive, Raleigh, NC 27610

For additional information and to RSVP, please call or email Alice Dean 800-621-4136 ext. 12183/alice.c.dean.ctr@mail.mil NOVEMBER 2013

FAMILY MATTERS

HELPING A FRIEND / CHILD & YOUTH

HELPING A FRIEND IN AN UNHEALTHY RELATIONSHIP Teenage dating can be like a roller-coast ride – up one minute and down the next. And, without a lot of experience, you may not know what’s healthy – and what’s not – in a relationship. If you’re worried about a friend who is in a relationship that doesn’t seem quite right, it can be hard to sit on the sidelines and watch. So how do you know when a friend is in trouble? There are ways to tell if the relationship is going in the wrong direction. If the boyfriend or girlfriend is extremely possessive or jealous, sends frequent texts to check up on your friend, tells your friend what to do or what to wear, or posts insulting or threatening things about your friend online, your friend may need help. You might also have reason to be worried if your friend has unexplained bruises or marks. If you think a friend’s relationship might not be healthy, there may be things you can do to help. It may be that your friend believes these things are a normal part of the relationship. Sometimes people believe that the abuse is their fault and that they somehow deserve it. Don’t be afraid to reach out to a friend who you think may be in trouble. First, let your friend know that no one deserves to be mistreated. Even if they aren’t being physically abused, insults and threats – emotional abuse – can still leave scars. And, many times, that emotional abuse can lead to physical violence and real trouble for your friend.

It probably won’t help to confront the abuser or post negative things about them online. If anything, it may make the situation worse for your friend. If your friend has decided to break up, you can be there for support. Remember, breaking up can be difficult. Couples sometimes break up and get back together several times before calling it quits for good. Let your friend know that it may be safer to break up by text or by phone. It may seem harsh, but your friend’s safety should come first. Encourage your friend to stick with the plan and not be drawn into a long argument. In the end, your friend will appreciate your help and support through this difficult time. And that’s what it is all about…being there for our friends when they need us most. For more information, visit Military OneSource at http://www.militaryonesource.mil, an official Department of Defense website.

You can encourage your friend to seek help from a trusted adult – maybe a parent or a teacher. Your friend can also call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-7997233. What your friend may need most is for you to be supportive and listen patiently. Trying to pressure your friend to end the relationship could backfire and you might end up pushing your friend away. Even though his or her boyfriend or girlfriend is abusive, your friend may still have strong feelings for that person. If you are afraid your friend might be in danger, you can help make a safety plan. That may include finding a way to make sure your friend is not alone with the abuser and has a way home from a party or other place where the abuser might be. You may also want to help your friend come up with a code word to use to ask friends or family for help without alerting the abuser.

Military OneSource offers a wide range of articles on a variety of subjects. Free counseling is also available to fit your needs, whether via phone or face-toface with a professional in your local area. Try it out!

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FAMILY MATTERS

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November is Child Safety and Protection Month! Learning to foresee accidents is the best way to prevent them. Child-proofing your home can reduce the risk of injury to children. TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE 1. True or false: Safety caps on drug containers are childproof. 2. Which of these foods are often responsible for childhood choking? (a) hot dogs, (b) hard candies, (c) grapes, (d) nuts. 3. In recent years, the use of car safety seats for children has (a) dropped slightly, (b) stayed the same, (c) increased slightly, (d) risen dramatically. 4. True or false: An infant car seat should be used in the front seat so you can keep an eye on the child. 5. True or false: If your car does not have shoulder straps in the rear seat, or if the shoulder strap crosses over the neck or face of your four-year old, it is better to let him ride with no seat belt. 6. What type of home exercise equipment injures the most children? (a) rowing machines, (b) weights, (c) stationary bicycles, (d) cross-country ski machines. 7. True or false: Touching a hot stove is the leading cause of childhood burns. 8. Why are five-gallon plastic buckets, which originally contained paint, food, or other supplies, a danger to infants? (a) infants can be strangled by the handles, (b) they can eat the toxic materials in them, (c) they can drown in them.

ANSWERS 1. (false) Safety caps are merely child-resistant, not childproof - a toddler can often open a safety cap within 10 minutes - the cap is just a delaying tactic. Tips: It's vital to keep drugs, even those with safety caps, out of the reach of children. Better yet, keep drugs out of sight and/or locked up. 2. (all - hot dogs, hard candies, grapes, nuts) These four foods cause more than 40% of all childhood choking deaths. Until toddlers have all their teeth and are able to chew their food well, they are inclined to swallow such foods whole. That can block a child's narrow airway and cause choking, a particular problem because of a child's underdeveloped ability to cough up obstructing foods. Tips: Don't give young children small foods like grapes or nuts. Cut up solid foods in small pieces, and serve them in small quantities. Encourage children under five to chew vigorously; monitor their eating sessions. Don't let them eat while talking, running, or lying down. Don't let children toss or pour food into their mouths. 3. (d - risen dramatically) But car crashes remain the leading cause of death for kids under age five. Eighty-four percent of one- to four-year-olds and 83% of infants used safety seats in 1990. Use of child safety seats reduces the likelihood of fatal injury in a crash by 69% for infants and by 47% for children aged one to four, according to federal estimates. All 50 states have enacted child safety seat laws. Tip: Don't think that it's ever safe to hold an infant when riding in a car - in a collision, the child is likely to fly out of your arms or be crushed against the dashboard. 4. (false) It is much safer to buckle an infant car seat into the rear seat. Over all, do not use the infant seat in the front seat of a new car equipped with a passenger-side air bag since the deployed bag can seriously injure the infant by striking the back of the safety seat (which is designed to face the rear), according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 5. (false) Any belt is better than no belt - for a child as well as an adult. Tip: Use a booster seat for a child age four to eight and weighing 40 to 65 pounds who has outgrown his infant safety seat. If your rear seat has shoulder straps, you can buy the kind of booster seat that raises your child so that the shoulder strap crosses his chest, not neck. If the rear seat has only lap belts, choose a booster seat that has a harness or shield, which will act as a torso restrainer. 6. (c - stationary bicycles) As more and more people buy exercise equipment, doctors are seeing a dramatic rise in the number of related injuries to young children. Stationary bikes injure thousands of kids each year, with more than a third of them suffering hand or finger injuries. Tip: Don't let young children use or play with exercise equipment without supervision. 7. (false) Hot liquids are the leading cause of nonfatal burns. Kids have thinner skin and thus are severely scalded at lower temperatures than adults. Water at 140 degrees F. will cause a serious burn in three seconds; even at 130 degrees F. it can produce a burn in 30 seconds. Tip: Set the thermostat on your water heater at 120-125 degrees F. 8. (c - they can drown in them) Each year about 50 infants drown in American homes after falling head-first into these large buckets (often kept for household use) while the bucket is filled with water or other liquids and left unattended. Tip: If you have young children, do not leave these buckets around the house - and never leave even a small amount of liquid in them. Reprinted with permission from the National Network for Child Care - NNCC. (1994). Only you can prevent childhood accidents! In M. Lopes (Ed.) Caregiver News (November, p.4). Amherst, MA: University of Massachusetts Cooperative Extension.

NOVEMBER 2013

FAMILY MATTERS

V E T E R A N S A D M I N I S T R AT I O N

The Affordable Care Act, also known as the health care law, was created to expand access to coverage, control health care costs and improve health care quality and care coordination. The health care law does not change VA health benefits or Veterans’ out-of-pocket costs.

Three Things You Should Know: 1. VA wants all Veterans to receive health care that improves their health and well-being. 2 If you are enrolled in VA health care, you don’t need to take additional steps to meet the health care law coverage standards. The health care law does not change VA health benefits or Veterans’ out-of-pocket costs. 3. If you are not enrolled in VA health care, you can apply at any time.

Veterans Enrolled in VA Health Care The good news is that Veterans enrolled in VA health care programs have health coverage that meets the new health care law’s standard. You do not have to take any additional steps to have health coverage.

Veterans Not Enrolled in VA Health Care Veterans not currently enrolled in VA health care program can apply for enrollment at any time. Read more about enrolling at http://www.va.gov/health/aca/NonEnrolledVeterans.asp

Family Members VA offers health care benefits for certain family members of Veterans through programs such as the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA) and the Spina Bifida program. Read more about VA family programs at http://www.va.gov/health/aca/FamilyMembers.asp

Your family members who are not enrolled in a VA health care program should use the Marketplace to get coverage.

Additional Health Care Law Information We understand you may have questions about the health care law and how it might affect you and your family. We compiled basic information about the health care law to help you make informed decisions about your health care. Let us know if you have questions regarding the health care law and your VA health care at 1-877-222-VETS (8387). After all, ensuring you receive quality health care is not just our obligation, it’s also our privilege.

For More Information, visit www.va.gov.

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FAMILY MATTERS

EMPLOYMENT EVENTS This November there are more than a dozen employment events happening across the State. For more information, visit www.nc.ngb.army.mil/Careers/Pages/ER.aspx

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FAMILY MATTERS

NCNG Education and Employment Center Unemployed and under-employed North Carolina Army and Air Guard Service members and their dependents now have direct support in the employment process. The Education & Employment Center (EEC) opened its doors in June and is already working with over 300 Service men The EEC is centered in Raleigh but supports service members and women in their job search throughout the state.

throughout the state from satellite locations in Asheville and Gastonia. Every region in NC has its own representatives that

The EEC not only works with service members, but generates

generate connections in that area.

long lasting relationships with employers throughout the State. These contacts provide a two-fold resource: when the EEC finds a candidate that matches an employer’s needs, they work to make sure that candidate gets face-to-face with that employer; also the HR Representatives give the EEC invaluable insight into the civilian employment arena. EEC NCOIC Austin Walther shared some insights, “We have found through talking with HR Representatives that employers are often confused and overwhelmed by military jargon in resumes.” EC helps Soldiers with a variety of employment tasks. Every candidate registered with the EEC system gets assigned an individual Employment Specialist that stays in contact for the duration of the hiring process. “Our Employment Specialists are trained to begin with an initial career assessment which helps generate an employment plan.” remarks Army Captain Sara Day, Deputy Director of the Education & Employment Center. “From that point on the Employment Specialist will coach the candidate through resume preparation for specific employment opportunities, military to civilian work translations, mock interviews, use of our nationwide database, hiring events and career fairs, and any other issues they may have.”

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE (DOD) YELLOW RIBBON PROGRAM EVENTS Section 582 of the NDAA established a national combat veteran reintegration program to provide National Guard and Reserve Members and their Families with sufficient information, services, referral, and proactive outreach opportunities throughout the entire deployment cycle. This program is called the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program. UPCOMING DATES Location & Dates are subject to change. 8-9 Nov. 2013/30-Day Event: 5-113th FA & 732nd FSC 16-17 Nov. 2013/30-Day Event: 2-130th AOB 6-8 Dec. 2013/PDHRA Event: 5-113th FA & 732nd FSC 11-12 Jan. 2014/PDHRA Event: 2-130th AOB Questions? Concerns? Call 919.664.6054 NOVEMBER 2013

FAMILY MATTERS

Happy Veteran’s Day NOVEMBER 11, 2013

2013

Freedom is not free But, freebies are here for you this month Military Members and their Families step up to the call of the State, Nation, and Globe, and their lives change. Military Members and their Families are resilient. Who knows better that “freedom is not free?” Here’s some “freebies” from others that know, and applaud your Service. Check out the 2013 Veteran’s Day Free Meals and Discounts (Restaurant chains advise calling ahead to specific locations, because they warn that not all franchises honor the specials offered by their parent organizations.) Also listed on the next page are retail discounts.

Free Food!!! Applebee’s -- All veterans and active-duty military eat free from a limited menu on Veterans Day. Chili's -- Veterans and service members can dine for free from a special six-item menu on Veterans Day. Golden Corral -- Military Appreciation Monday includes a free dinner, Nov. 11, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. for military retirees, veterans, and current service members. Famous Dave's -- Offers for free or discounted meals on Veterans Day vary by location. Hooters -- All veterans and service members get 10 free wings with the purchase of a drink. Krispy Kreme -- A free donut is available for all service members, retirees and veterans. McCormick & Schmick's Seafood Restaurants -- participating McCormick & Schmick's Seafood Restaurants are offering a complimentary entree to vets from a special menu on a space-available basis. Online reservations are highly recommended. Outback Steakhouse -- Outback will offer veterans and military a free Bloomin' Onion and beverage Subway Restaurants -- Free six-inch sub or flatbread available to military vets on Veterans Day. Texas Roadhouse -- Free meals available to veterans from opening until 4 p.m. on Veterans Day. T.G.I. Friday's -- Veterans and service members can buy one meal and get another free. UNO Chicago Grill -- UNO is offering a 19.43 percent discount on food and non-alcoholic beverage beverages to vets and military. The chain explains that 1943 was the year UNO invented the deep dish pizza. Abuelo's Mexican Food -- Offers vary by region. Buca di Beppo Italian Restaurants -- Special offers for vets on Veterans Day.

(see next page for more)

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FAMILY MATTERS

More Appreciationâ&#x20AC;Ś VETERANS DAY RETAIL DEALS Amazon.com: A free downloadable MP3 album includes 12 songs performed by Military bands and ensembles from now through Veterans Day.

CHECK OUT SOME OF THE PLACES THAT OFFER DEALS TO VETERANS...

The Dollar General: Veterans, service members and their immediate families can receive a 10-percent discount with a Veterans Day coupon. Home Depot: Offers a 10 percent discount to all veterans on Veterans Day. Home Depot offers a 10 percent discount year-round to active duty military and retirees. Lowe's: All veterans receive the 10 percent discount for purchases of up to $5,000. A 10 percent discount is available year-round to active-duty military and retirees. Sam's Club: Sam's Club will give away collapsible Hugo Canes on Veterans Day to military veterans who need them. Seven-Eleven: On Nov. 11 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., veterans can get a free small Slurpee.

FREE HAIRCUTS

Cabela's Outdoor Store: Employee discounts are being offered to all veterans, active-duty military and reservecomponent troops, along with law-enforcement, fire and emergency-management personnel. Discounts vary from 5 percent to 50 percent, depending on item. Build-a-Bear Workshop: Members of the armed services, including the Coast Guard and ROTC, receive a 20 percent discount on any one transaction at the workshop. Fashion Bug: Offering 20 percent off all plus-size and misses clothing purchases with a copy of military ID or spouse's military ID.

SPORTS CLIP HAIRCUTS: OFFERING FRE HAIRCUTS TO ACTIVE-MILITARY AND VETERANS.

Sports Clips Haircuts: Offering free haircuts to activemilitary and veterans.

NOVEMBER 2013

FAMILY MATTERS

F R G F U N D R A I S I N G PA R T- T W O

As we adjust in creative ways to support our Military Families, it is good to remember the framework of the Army's Family Readiness Group. This month, we are showcasing part two of our six-part series of Fundraising tips and reminders. Part 2: FRGs with a checking account must have a Standard Operating Procedure, (SOP) per Army Regulation 608-1 Appendix J, paragraph 7c. (Note: if you need a sample SOP for your FRG/ Unit…contact your BDE FRSA or SFRSA!) Helps understand account’s purpose and it’s in writing. Also helps the FRG membership to understand what FRG dollars can be used for At a minimum, your SOP must include: 1. FRG Name 2. Description of FRG purpose and function of the fund stating that: expenses will be consistent with its purpose 3. Statement that says account is not a business or for profit. Following statement, “FRG’s informal fund’s purpose and function are to provide support, recognition, education and information to help prepare families for mobilization and their continued participation in the National Guard. • The FRG informal fund is for the benefit of its members only. It is not a business and is not being run to generate profits. • FRG expenditures will be in accordance with the wishes of the majority of FRG members and all fundraisers must have Command approval before proceeding. “The FRG is not an instrumentality of the United States Government.” • The SOP can be included in the FRG Family Readiness Plan (Sanction) OR • The SOP may be completed as a separate document • SOP is signed by treasurer, alternate treasurer, FRG Leader and Commander • SOP is filed in the Unit’s Family Readiness Binder and a copy forwarded to the State Family Program’s Office Use of Funds Expenditures must benefit the entire FRG membership in some way FRG informal funds cannot: • Be used to purchase items or services which may be paid for with appropriated (military) funds • Or for items not related to the FRG such as service member farewell gifts or the unit military ball • Funds cannot be given to a military unit to purchase additional supplies, equipment, or to fund additional training again items which can be purchased with appropriated (military) funds • Augment the “unit fund” • Cannot be deposited or mixed with personal funds

FAMILY READINESS SUPPORT ASSISTANTS (800) 621-4136 Charlotte: Nikkie Newsome genesia.k.newsome.ctr@mail.mil Ext.14548 Clinton: Sarah Strickland sarah.r.strickland.ctr@mail.mil Ext. 14735

Goldsboro: Greg Smith gregory.p.smith14.ctr@mail.mil Ext. 15423 High Point: Gloria Fields gloria.d.fields.ctr@mail.mil Ext.15620 Jacksonville: Judy Richardson judith.r.richardson.ctr@mail.mil Ext. 11346

Morrisville: Darlette McComick darlette.s.mccormick.ctr@mail.mil Ext. 16313 Oxford: Norman Dean norman.g.dean2.ctr@mail.mil Ext. 12182 Raleigh: George Lane george.w.lane2.ctr@mail.mil Ext. 46714 NOVEMBER 2013

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F R G F U N D R A I S I N G PA R T - T W O

( C O N T I N U E D )

FRG informal funds can be used for: • Special life events to foster service member and family cohesion and morale such as: births, birthdays, welcome new members • FRG volunteer training • Meeting refreshments • Deployment and reunion activities • Childcare expenses during FRG events • Postage, newsletter publication, and operating supplies in support of the FRG • And any authorized expense approved in advance and in accordance with the FRG spending plan

Maintenance of the Account • Account balance is limited to $10,000 • The account balance cannot exceed $10,000 at any time • FRG’s annual income is also capped at $10,000 • Annual or Fiscal Year will be the calendar year from Jan 1 –Dec 31 • If the account balance drops below $10,000 (after already reaching $10,000 income for the year), more funds cannot be raised for the remainder of that calendar (fiscal) year • Because once the income exceeds $10,000 for the fiscal year, it can then be considered a Private Organization (like Red Cross, Boy/Girl Scouts) • And could then be subject to IRS regulatory requirements & tax liabilities • Can you carry over income from the previous fiscal year and still raise $10,000 in the new fiscal year? – For example, the FRG has $4000 at the end of the fiscal year. Can you raise $10,000 in the new fiscal year or only $6000? – You can raise $10,000, but the account balance cannot exceed $10,000 at any time and the annual income cannot exceed $10,000 in order to avoid tax liabilities – Good, clear accounting records need to be maintained to reflect and delineate this

Free Stays for Veterans Select B&B's and Inns are offering Active Duty Servicemembers and Veterans a FREE room on Wednesday, November 10 .

A West Virginia innkeeper recruited 400 inns and bed-andbreakfasts across the U.S. and Canada as part of an initiative to offer free rooms to active-duty Servicemembers and veterans on November 10, the night before Veterans Day. Reservations need to be made directly with the participating Inns and B&Bs. For more information, including a listing of participating inns and B&Bs, visit the B&Bs for Vets website at http://www.bnbsforvets.org/.

NOVEMBER 2013

FAMILY MATTERS

NOVEMBER 2013

FAMILY MATTERS

HELP WHEN YOU NEED IT

Military Family Life Counselors ~Provides short-term, situational, problemsolving counseling services to Servicemembers and their Families ~Provides psycho-education to help military Servicemembers and their Families understand the impact of stress, deployments, family reunions following deployments and the stresses of military life ~MFLC services augment existing military support services ~Flexible service delivery (Outreach/ Rotational and On-Demand); Services can be provided on or off military installations ~Services provided to individuals, couples, families, and groups ~Children’s Support Program addresses military impact on children ~MFLCs are mandated reporters of child abuse, domestic abuse and duty-to-warn situations; services are otherwise confidential and private Counselors John Alleman, Adult and Family Specialist (919) 745-9635 Betty Steelman, Youth and Family Specialist (919) 665-9178 MILITARY FAMILY APPRECIATION MONTH This November we recognize Military Families across the state and offer you the NCNG Family Programs bookmark to the right for you to print. Thank you Military Families for all your support and strength.. We invite you to share jokes, stories or ways you navigate through these stressful times. Email ncngfamiyprograms@gmail.com for inclusion in Family Matters or post on our NCNG Family programs Facebook page at www.facebook.com/NCNGFP. We ask that shared content be void of any explicit content or language.

Our Personal Financial Counselor can provide FREE one-on-one financial counseling services to you and your Family. Mr. Chip Jurgensen, CFP, NCJFSAP (919) 334-8313

Stressed out? Try laughing. Laughter triggers the body’s release of endorphins: chemicals in the brain that cause people to feel good. Aside from having positive effects on your mental state, laughter can actually produce positive physical changes in the body. Laughter stimulates circulation and helps to relax muscles, and both of these things can combat some of the physical symptoms of stress. Laughter also causes you to take in more oxygen, which stimulates your heart, lungs, and muscles. Over time, laughter may even help to ward off disease by strengthening the immune system. Humor can also help you create a positive perspective. If you can see the humor in a situation, you’re not only less likely to experience stress, but you’re more likely to be able to cope with difficult situations when they do arise. Sharing laughter is also a great way to connect with other people. In turn, the more healthy personal connections you have, the more able you will be to find support in stressful situations. From the North Central Missouri College

NOVEMBER 2013

FAMILY MATTERS

Family Assistance Centers Asheville Military Family Resource Center 7 Yorkshire St. Suite 101, 28803/Fax: (828) 274-7209 Rebekah Torres, (828) 274-8571 Charlotte Unit Family Contact Center 4240 West Blvd., 28208/(800) 621-4136 Carry Bandy, FAC Specialist, carry.s.bandy.ctr@mail.mil, Ext. 14573 Gabrielle H. O'Flanagan, gabrielle.h.oflanagan.ctr@mail.mil, Ext. 14547 Greenville State Family Assistance Center 1401 N. Memorial Dr., 27834/(800) 621-4136, Ext. 11150 Dawn White, dawn.m.white2.ctr@mail.mil Lenoir State Family Assistance Center 1535 Beecher Anderson Rd., 28645 (800) 621-4136, Ext. 11242 Frances Johnson, frances.r.johnson28.ctr@mail.mil WEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;RE AT NCNGFAMILY

Raleigh Unit Family Contact Center 4105 Reedy Creek Rd., Raleigh, NC, 27607/(800) 621-4136 Lisa Faison, lisa.m.faison.ctr@mail.mil, Ext. 47100 Mark Woolbright, mark.l.woolbright.ctr@mail.mil, Ext. 47102 Bob Bowman, robert.a.bowman1.ctr@mail.mil, Ext. 46979 Raleigh JFHQ Unit Family Contact Center 636 Gold Star Drive, Raleigh, NC, 27607/800-621-4136 Wendi Bell, wendi.h.bell.ctr@mail.mil, Ext. 46078 Smithfield Unit Family Contact Center 406 Hospital Rd., 27577/(800) 621-4136 Abby Millsap, abigail.e.millsap.ctr@mail.mil, Ext.12784 Southern Pines Unit Family Contact Center 510 W. Morganton Rd., PO Box 1317, 28387 (800) 621-4136, Ext. 12863 Earlene Capps, earlene.b.capps.ctr@mail.mil Wilmington Unit Family Contact Center 2412 Infantry Rd., 28405/(800) 621-4136 Jim Marley, james.e.marley.ctr@mail.mil, Ext. 16918

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Winston-Salem Unit Family Contact Center 2000 Silas Creek Pkwy., 27103/(800) 621-4136 Ext. 15651 Sandy Harrison, FAC Specialist, sandra.b.harrison2.ctr@mail.mil

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FAMILY MATTERS

The White House Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release October 31, 2013

Presidential Proclamation -- Military Family Month, 2013 MILITARY FAMILY MONTH, 2013 ------BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION Throughout our Nation's history, an unbroken chain of patriots has strengthened us in times of peace and defended us in times of war. Yet the courageous men and women of the United States military do not serve alone. Standing alongside them are husbands and wives, parents and children, sisters and brothers. During Military Family Month, we celebrate the families who make daily sacrifices to keep our Nation whole, and we remember a most sacred obligation -- to serve them as well as they serve us. Military families exemplify the courage and resolve that define our national character. For their country and their loved ones, they rise to the challenges of multiple deployments and frequent moves -- spouses who care and provide for children in their partners' absence, kids who make new friends and leave known comforts behind. They are the force behind the force, patriots who support their family members in uniform while enriching the communities they call home. While our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen are defending the country they love, their country must provide for the families they love. Through First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden's Joining Forces initiative, my Administration has worked tirelessly to engage American citizens and businesses in this cause. Joining Forces encourages the private sector to hire veterans and military spouses, helps schools become more responsive to military children's needs, and expands access to wellness and education programs for military families. Since the initiative began in 2011, businesses have hired and trained more than 290,000 veterans and military spouses. My Administration is also taking action to improve mental health care and education for veterans, service members, and their families. Last year, I signed an Executive Order directing the Federal Government to increase access to these vital services. And this year, as a result of the Supreme Court decision striking down Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act, the Department of Defense moved swiftly to extend benefits to legally married same-sex couples. Time and again, our service members and their families have sacrificed to protect the promise that defines our Nation -- life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. As we work to repay this enormous debt of gratitude, I encourage every American to do their part. Together, let us support our military children as they learn, grow, and live their dreams. And let us keep our military families strong and secure. NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim November 2013 as Military Family Month. I call on all Americans to honor military families through private actions and public service for the tremendous contributions they make in the support of our service members and our Nation. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first day of October in the year of our Lord two thousand thirteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-eighth. BARACK OBAMA

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FAMILY MATTERS