Family Matters February 2011 by NCNG Family Programs

Summer Opportunities for Military Kids

Family Matters February 2011 Volume 3, Issue 2

Retreat in 2011 with Strong Bonds NC Military Veteran Partnership

Military Marriages A Team Approach FEBRUARY 2011

FAMILY MATTERS

Family Matters

Dear Servicemembers, Military Families and Friends,

February 2011 Diane Coffill State Family Program Director diane.coffill2@us.army.mil (919) 664-6324 SFC Ramona Scott Family Program NCOIC ramona.scott1@us.army.mil (919) 664-6000 ext. 7005 SFC Calvin Buchan Family Program Assistant calvin.buchan@us.army.mil (919) 664-6124 Vacant Budget Analysis (919) 664-7583 SGT Daniel Holland Family Program Assistant/ Warehouse dan.holland@us.army.mil (919) 664-6124 PFC Carrie Stevens Family Program Assistant carolyn.stevens1@us.army.mil (919) 664-6000 ext. 6876 Lana Greer State FAC Coordinator lana.m.greer@us.army.mil (828) 271-5029 Kathleen Flaherty Airman & Family Readiness Program Mgr. kathleen.flaherty.ctr@ncchar.ang.af.mil

(704) 398-4949

Can you believe that it’s February 2011 already? At Family Programs, we’ve jumped right back into the swing of things. Our staff has been busy supporting various events, such as the Yellow Ribbon events in January for about four different events. It’s amazing to see how much the Yellow Ribbon program has grown here in our State, and how it continues to help support military members and their Families. In January, we were happy that a group of cub scouts were able to meet the 105th EN BN … the unit the cub scouts “adopted” during the 105th’s deployment. So, Yellow Ribbon events not only bring together Soldiers and Families but also members of the community. Check out the upcoming Yellow Ribbon events for programs that may be going on for your unit. In all of the celebrations going on in February, Valentine’s Day surely makes us think about relationships. We’ve reprinted an article, originally published in Military Money about military marriages. While this article was written in 2006, we find that the tips that are offered are relevant today and for years to come. With that in mind, take advantage of the upcoming Marriage Enrichment Retreats and Family Retreats; we also would love for interested single Soldiers to join us for their very own retreat. Inside this month’s issue, you’ll learn about our new program, NC Military Veteran Partnership, where we’re working to strengthen relationships in our communities, to further support Military Families. There’s also an upcoming FRG Volunteer Workshop where we’ll bring appointed FRGs leaders together to learn about new and existing programs, networking, and more. On another note, it’s also a great time for parents to start thinking about summer camps … so, we’ve included a few leads, along with several scholarship opportunities. As always, check us out on Facebook and join us on Twitter. We also encourage you to frequently visit our public website at

PHOTO FAVORITE:

www.nc.ngb.army.mil for updates and information on what’s happenings with

SGT SNOWMAN

the North Carolina National Guard. We hope that you and your Family are truly enjoying 2011. If you’ve made any New Year Resolutions, we hope it’s going well for you; and, if not, remember it’s just

Pamela Hughes State FRG Advisor pamela.hughes5@us.army.mil (919) 693-5016 ext. 11

the 2nd month of the new year, so you still

Alice Dean State Youth Coordinator alice.dean@us.army.mil (919) 664-7616

great ideas, interesting articles and informa-

North Carolina National Guard Family Programs State Office 4105 Reedy Creek Road Raleigh, NC 27607-6410 (919) 664-6053 www.nc.ngb.army.mil/Family/ index.php

have time to make good on your resolutions. Remember, you can visit Military OneSource at www.militaryonesource.com for lots of tion.

Sincerely, Diane Coffill State Family Program Director

Created by Christa McLaughlin, Army National Guard 1053rd Transportation in SC; Submitted by: Doretha McLaughlin, Charlotte FAC Specialist FEBRUARY 2011

FAMILY MATTERS

Yellow Ribbon Program | Deployment Cycle Support

Yellow Ribbon YELLOW RIBBON TEAM 800-621-4136 EXT. 46054

A-Co 30th STB CO B 3-20 SFG 105th EN BN A-Co 30th STB 1-131 AVN BN HHC 105th MP BN &

February 25-26, 2011 March 11-12, 2011 March 18-20, 2011 March 18-20, 2011 March 25-26, 2011 April 15-16, 2011

Greensboro Raleigh Greensboro Greensboro Greensboro Asheville

30 Day Pre-Demobilization 60 PDHRA 60 PDHRA Pre-Deployment 30 Day

163 RD ASMC HHC 105th MP BN &

May 20-22, 2011

Greensboro

60 PDHRA

163 RD ASMC

*Upcoming Event information subject to change.

Military Family Life consultants MFLCs are available free of charge if you’d like to talk with someone. Sometimes, it’s the little things that can turn into big things … or, the elephant in the room that no one wants to talk about (and isn’t going away). Maybe an impartial perspective can help. Call today to see how we can help. John Alleman: Adult & Family Specialist/919-745-9635 Betty Steelman: Child & Family Specialist/919-665-9178

Frequently Used Numbers DEERS: 800-538-9552 Emergency Operations Center: 919-664-6531 Employment Readiness: 828-274-8571 Integrated Behavioral Healthy System: 800-621-4136 x. 1 Legal Assistance: 919-334-9957; 704-788-4553 Military OneSource: 800-342-9647 Personal Financial Counselor: David Porter, 704-280-9555 Tricare: 877-874-2273 FEBRUARY 2011

FAMILY MATTERS

Community Cares | North Carolina Military Veteran Partnership

PARTNERSHIP N A R E T E V Y R A A MILIT NORTH CAROLIN

The North Carolina Military Veteran Partnership is a voluntary Military/community cooperative partnership organized to allow service providers to engage in multiservice networking to help connect Servicemembers and Families to local Military and/or community resources. What are the Goals of NCMVP? The primary goal of NCMVP is to strengthen Family assistance delivery systems especially in the event of mobilization, deployment, or natural disaster. NCMVP accomplishes this by leveraging the resources of all committee members. NCMVP encourages and provides ongoing training on a variety of topics, such as new Family Initiatives, Family Advocacy and Critical Incident Stress.

How is NCMVP Structured? NCMVP is a committee with shared leadership organized by regional areas. NCMVP meets on a bi-monthly basis and often rotate meeting locations.

Who belongs to NCMVP? NCMVP is comprised of community partners, educational partners, medical providers, and business leaders from:  Military– All services, National Guard and Reserve Components  Government– City, State and Regional Agencies  Child, Youth, and School Services– Schools and recreation  Veteran Service Organizations  Other Community Agencies specific to your region; Red Cross, Salvation Army, Faith Communities, United Way

Why Should I Get Involved?      

The NCMVP is an asset where you will receive up-to-date information Ability to network with key Family service providers and agencies Establish important contacts which will expand your service delivery well beyond the installation, armory, or reserve center Create a network of experts who share knowledge and experiences in solving everyday challenges Servicemembers and Families encounter Share training and professional development opportunities Reduce duplication of efforts– work smarter not harder

How Can I Get Involved? Participation is open to individuals who assist Servicemembers and Families. NCMVP’s will function at a regional level. Call your local Family Assistance Center to learn more about upcoming meetings.

February Festivities; there’s lots to celebrate in February. If you’re looking for other celebrations and special occasions, visit www.brownielocks.com. Black History Month: February 2011 Groundhog’s Day: February 2; Valentine’s Day: February 14 President’s Day: February 21 FEBRUARY 2011

FAMILY MATTERS

Military Marriage:

A Team Approach to Military Life By Julia Pfaff

I felt sadness but little surprise when I read the reports about the military's increased divorce rates during 2004. Military Family life always has weathered its unique challenges, and it's no different for today's Families. Yet despite the hardships, many military marriages are strong. I am blessed to know several military couples who have stayed happily together through World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. Society and circumstances change, of course, but I am encouraged and inspired each time I see these couples. What makes a successful military marriage? Believe me, I'm no marriage counselor, but I have observed several common traits among military couples who enjoy successful marriages: An understanding that marriage and military life are voluntary choices. Couples who keep this fact in mind are better able to ward off feelings of resentment that occur when they feel they lack control of their circumstances. A team approach to military life. These couples embrace the military as their lifestyle, not just the job of the Servicemember. As a result, it is understood that success in military Family life requires active engagement by both partners. Mutual respect which recognizes and honors the sacrifices of each partner. Successful couples fully appreciate and respect each other. They recognize that the "jobs" of the military member and the military spouse are difficult and challenging. The sacrifice of one partner is no less important than the sacrifice of the other. Each spouse is committed to the success of the other. Frequent, honest communication. This is the foundation of all successful marriages, of course. While frequent and open communication is difficult in the current deployment situation, technological advances have made it easier. An important part of successful communication is to understand the other person and attempt to convey thoughts and feelings in a way the other partner will understand and appreciate.

A realistic perspective of military life. The successful couple sees their military journey as one chapter in their life together. Sometimes it may seem hard to believe, but most couples even for those who make a career of the military - will spend more of their married years out of the service than in it. All lifestyles encompass certain benefits and challenges; accepting both the positive and negative aspects of military life helps maintain a realistic perspective and avoids unrealistic expectations. A desire to be prepared for both military life and married life. Many successful couples took marriage preparation seriously from the beginning and continue to take advantage of marriage retreats and military Family programs such Army Family Team Building. Couples are better able to face and overcome challenges together when they can understand and anticipate them.

(Continued on next page)

FEBRUARY 2011

FAMILY MATTERS

“Laughing Your Way to a Better Marriage” Strong Bonds—Marriage Retreat RESERVE YOUR SPACES NOW

Learn how laughter can lead to a happier marriage and better communication Feb. 11-13: Sheraton Imperial, RTP March 25-27: Atlantic Beach April 29-May 1: Mountains July 8-10: Beach July 29-31: Beach August 12-14: Raleigh August 26-28: Mountains

Registration Forms can be found at www.nc.ngb.army.mil/index.php/fp/strong-bonds/marriage-enrichment. Contact PFC Stevens at (800) 621-4136 ext. 46876 or carolyn.stevens1@us.army.mil for questions. (continued from previous page) A network of friends that serve as a support group. This

includes joint friends and individual friends, but all help provide support for the couple, particularly during periods of deployment. Your network also can help keep you accountable in your marriage and prevent you from doing something that violates your partner's trust.

What You & Your Spouse Should Know About the Marriage Retreats

A deep trust in each other. This trust is nurtured both

when the couple is together and when it is apart. Successful marriages don't just happen - they require constant commitment. Military marriages include difficult challenges and unusual pressures, but happiness and fulfillment certainly are possible. The evidence is all around you. # # #

Reprinted courtesy of Military Money. Military Money.com is the leading personal finance resource for active duty military, their families, and veterans. From the GI Bill to VA loans, frequent moves, and deployments, America's service members deserve timely financial information with their needs in mind. Serve. Save. Be InCharge.

Strong Bonds programs are offered by Army Chaplains with the full support of your Commanding Officer. You’ll gain practical, useful information based on world-class curriculum developed from years of research. In small groups, you’ll participate in activities that renew bonds with your peers. And, as a couple, you’ll practice communication and relationship building skills, as well as share intimate moments. Register at www.nc.ngb.army.mil/index.php/fp/strong-bonds FEBRUARY 2011

FAMILY MATTERS

Family Readiness Groups | Upcoming Events, News Pamela Hughes FRG Advisor 105 West Spring Street Oxford, NC Email: pamela.hughes5@us.army.mil Office: (919) 693-5016 ext. 11 Cell: (919) 485-9563

FAMILY READINESS GROUPS

Family Readiness Support Assistants Charlotte: Nikkie Newsome nikkie.newsome@us.army.mil (704) 359-5707 Clinton: Sarah Strickland sarah.r.strickland@us.army.mil (910) 299-5466 Goldsboro: Greg Smith gregory.paul.smith@us.army.mil (919) 739-5319 Jacksonville: Judy Richardson judy.r.richardson@us.army.mil (910) 347-4352/line 11 Morrisville: Jim Roberson james.roberson@us.army.mil (919) 664-7655 Oxford: Norman Dean norman.dean@us.army.mil (919) 693-3651 x. 27

Free Concert

February 13, 2011, at the Progress Energy Center for the Performing Arts in Raleigh, N.C. at 1 p.m. Admission to the concert by Little Anthony and the Imperials is complimentary. The event is to honor Veterans for the freedoms we enjoy each day. Tickets are available at the Voluntary Services office at the Durham VAMC or by calling (919)416-8042. There is currently a two ticket limit per person. FEBRUARY 2011

FAMILY MATTERS

Volunteer Spotlight ...

Volunteer Spotlight| Sonja Blalock

CO D, 1/252 Combined Arms Battalion, FRG Coordinator Mrs. Sonja Blalock’s commitment to the Soldiers and Families is reflected by over 20 years of service as a volunteer leader, which included two previous deployments of the unit to combat theaters. In addition to her unit support role she served for a period as a battalion FRG Coordinator for the Families of over 700 Soldiers. While assisting other Families, Mrs. Blalock also had to personally endure the stresses of deployments while her son participated in three combat tours. Her steadfast commitment to our military Families has been an immeasurable benefit for hundreds of Soldiers, wives, children, and parents for many years. She has added stability where there was little; knowledge when it was difficult to find; and compassion when it was most needed.

Sonja Blalock, Co. D, 1/252 CAB, FRG Coordinator, has given over 20 years of volunteer service. NCNG Family Programs Online Events Calendar Stay Connected!

She formed a viable and productive group of volunteers from a very diverse collection of individuals and organizations to support our Soldiers and Families. Mrs. Blalock was personally responsible for gaining support from several churches, civic clubs, businesses, and key leaders in the community. These individuals and organizations provided resources and financial support for “care packages” for Soldiers, Christmas gifts for children, school supplies for Iraqi children, and appreciation dinners and events. She personally coordinated financial assistance and counseling for spouses and children, assisted several Families with the military medical system, and coordinated attendance at summer camps for many children. She was of immense assistance in providing official, confirmed information to the Families in order to lessen the impact of unverified rumors. Thank You Mrs. Sonja Blalock.

Www.jointservicessupport.org Yoga For Warriors, Raleigh, NC Yoga Warrior teachers Sona Desai and Michelle Waltz have teamed up once again with Wellness for Warriors (W4W) to offer a FREE 7-week series of Yoga Warrior classes to be held at the Raleigh Red Cross on Tuesday each month starting in March 1. For more information about W4W events and resources go to: www.meetup.com/Wellness-for-Warriors-Triangle or www.semperfidelishealthandwellness.org.

FEBRUARY 2011

FAMILY MATTERS

Meet the FAC | Kinston Unit Family Contact Center

Gabrielle O’Flanagan FAC Specialist gabrielle.h.oflanagan@us.army.mil (252) 526-2711 Hello to all! My name is Gabrielle O’Flanagan. I am the new FAC Specialist at the Kinston Armory. I am very excited to be working with Family Programs! I was born in White Plains, New York and moved to Danbury, CT shortly after. I bounced around from public elementary school to homeschooling to Catholic school until 6 th grade. That was when my mother decided she couldn’t handle another Connecticut winter and we moved to Greensboro, NC. After graduating high school I knew I was not ready for college. So I headed out to the Pacific Northwest to participate in an Americorps program called Earthcorps. I spent the next 10 months working in and around beautiful Seattle. We dug ditches, built an amphibian pond, cleaned up an old toxic waste area, and constructed a pedestrian bridge in a local park. The most rewarding part of this experience was going back to the amphibian pond six months later and seeing that frogs had come back. It was great to see our hard, dirty work really paying off and making this park a better place. Putting off college to go to Earthcorps was the best decision for me but I knew once it was over it was time to hit the books again. I came back to NC to go to UNC Wilmington and graduated with a BS in Communication Studies in 2008. I studied photography and event planning among other subjects. I am really hoping to put these skills to use to help the Family Programs work at its best. These days I am enjoying living with my parents in New Bern and taking advantage of our 27’ Compact Sailboat! Being out on the water is so peaceful, I cannot wait for spring to get back out there. Whenever I get a chance, I also travel to Greensboro to spend time with my Goddaughter Emma. She has been a very special part of my life for the last 10 years. It has been amazing to watch her grow into such a beautiful young lady. As you can tell I have no military experience. It was a meant to be moment when the contracting company found my resume on Monster. There is a lot to learn but I am eager and ready! I have conquered some scary things in my life from jumping out of a plane at 14,000 feet (twice!) or riding 175 mph in a race car. Family Programs is my new, big challenge and I am looking forward to making a difference in some way. I am excited to help those who give so much for the freedoms so many enjoy every day. So Soldiers, thank you for what you do, and to the Families thank you, thank you, thank you. You all deserve so much more credit than you get!

Single Soldier Retreats “How Not to Date a Jerk or Jerkette” April 29-May 1, 2011: Myrtle Beach August 26-28, 2011: Raleigh Gather your single NCNG battle buddies for one of our upcoming Single Soldier Retreats.

Visit www.nc.ngb.army.mil/index.php/fp/singles for more information. FEBRUARY 2011

FAMILY MATTERS

Alice Dean State Child & Youth Coordinator (800) 621-4136 ext. 47616 (919) 664-7616 alice.dean@us.army.mil

Bridgette Carroll, KOG Coordinator

(800) 621-4136 ext. 8820 line 21 bridgette.carroll@us.army.mil

Kristi Wagner, Youth Coordinator (800) 621-4136 ext. 8820 line 23 kristi.wagner@us.army.mil

2011 Scholarships for Military Children Dependent, unmarried children of activeduty service members, reservists, guardsmen, retirees, or survivors of service members who died on active duty or while receiving military retired pay, may apply for a scholarship. Applicants must be younger than 21, or 23 if enrolled as a full-time student at a college or university. An applicant must be planning to attend, or already be attending, an accredited college or university, full-time in the fall of 2011 or be enrolled in a program of studies designed to transfer directly into a four-year program. Applicants must also submit an essay on the topic provided; and, applications must be turned in to a commissary by Feb. 22, 2011. At least one scholarship will be awarded at every commissary with qualified applicants. Scholarship awards will be based on funds available, but the scholarship program anticipates awards of at least $1,500. If there are no eligible applicants from a particular commissary, the funds designated for that commissary will be awarded as an additional Scholarship applications are available in commissaries worldwide and online at www.militaryscholar.org.

Child & Youth Program | Camps and More

Child & Youth Program Showcase your Picasso Military Kids Visual Arts Contest NC OMK is excited to announce the 4th Annual NC Operation: Military Kids Visual Arts Contest. The contest is open to all North Carolina youth. Age categories are 5-8, 9-10, 11-12, 13-15, and 16-19. Designed to introduce youth to the Visual Arts as a part of the 4-H Expressive Arts Curriculum, youth will utilize their skills and their artistry to capture their views of America and patriotism. This year's themes are: Images of America ~ - All American Kids Flags, Freedom and Families ~ Honoring Those Who Serve Contest rules and guidelines are attached and can be found at www.nc4h.org/ military/index/html or http://www.operationmilitarykids.org/public/ statePOCHome.aspx?state=North%20Carolina Eligibility of Photos: All photographs must have been taken by youth between the dates of May 1, 2010 and the time of entry. Photos may be submitted only one time and in only one division and class to the North Carolina Operation: Military Kids photography contest. Eligibility of Artwork: All artwork must have been created by youth between the dates of May 1, 2010 and the time of entry. Artwork may be submitted only one time and in only one division and class to the North Carolina Operation: Military Kids Visual Arts contest. Entry Deadline: ENTRIES must arrive in the North Carolina 4-H Youth Development Office, postmarked no later than Friday, April 29, 2011.

Plan A Family Getaway NCNG Family retreats Plan a trip to the beach on June 24-26, 2011, or visit North Carolinaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beautiful mountains August 12-14, 2011. Raising a Military Family not only has its challenges; it can also be a lot of fun. Join us for one of our upcoming Family Retreats for activities and seminars specifically designed for the military Family. For registration forms, visit www.nc.ngb.army.mil/index.php/fp/singles. FEBRUARY 2011

FAMILY MATTERS

Child & Youth Program | Upcoming Camps, Scholarships and

Opportunities 2011 Air Force Reserve/Air National Guard Summer Teen Leadership Retreat Air Force Reserve & Air National Guard dependent teens ages 14-18 can apply February 1 for the 2011 Summer Teen Leadership Retreats. Teens go to a five day camp focused on fostering leadership skills and self confidence, developing an awareness of programs and services available to AF dependents, and building an appreciation of and sense of belonging to the Air Force community. More information can be found at www.georgia4h.org/ AFRANGTeenSummit/.

2011 Shelton Leadership Challenge Institutes Apply today. Space is limited for the 2011 Shelton Leadership Challenge Institutes happening next summer. This is a fabulous opportunity for our youth. The Shelton Challenge is a six day residential experience to help students expand their knowledge and skills of what it takes to be a leader. The cost to attend the weeklong program is $575. A limited number of scholarships are available. Families that have a Servicemember deployment could use the Our Military Kids Grants for this camp. www.ncsu.edu/ extension/sheltonleadership/ leadership-programs/challenge.php

Scholarship for Military Daughters For the third year in a row, The Julie Foudy Leadership Foundation will continue to honor and support Families who are serving our country by offering full scholarships to military daughters interested in attending the Julie Foudy Sports Leadership Academy. Applications for 2011 will be available the first week of January at the Foundationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website, www.foudyleadershipfoundation.org

NASA Space Camp is a six-day program that shows young men and women firsthand what it takes to be an astronaut. Activities include simulated Space Shuttle missions, training simulators, rocket building and launches, scientific experiments, and lectures of the past, present, and future of space exploration. This full scholarship camp offered in Huntsville, Alabama. Space Camp Application deadline is March 10 each year (when March 10 is on a weekend, the deadline is the following Monday after March 10). To apply go to the NCNG Child and Youth Academic need webpage at www.nc.ngb.army.mil/index.php/fp/youth-programs-2/academicneeds. For more detailed information about the Space Camp, visit their web site at www.spacecamp.com.

FEBRUARY 2011

FAMILY MATTERS

Child & Youth Program| Summer Camps

National Military Family Association’s Operation

Purple

camps offer a free week of summer fun for military kids with parents who have been, are currently, or will be deployed. These free weeklong camps are provided through the generous support of the Sierra Club and the Sierra Club Foundation. The goal of the Operation Purple camp program is to give military children tools to help deal with the stresses that result from a parent’s deployment, through a memorable camp experience in a “purple” environment. Operation Purple camps are open to military children of all ranks and Services: active and reserve components—and give priority to children whose parents are currently within a 15 month deployment “window” (specific dates announced each year). At Operation Purple camps military children experience an exciting week of outdoor fun and adventure. Operation Purple camps are held at host camp locations throughout the United States and U.S. Territories. Host camps are chosen annually and locations often change from year to year. We are currently preparing for the 2011 Operation Purple camp season! Please check back this February to see which camps will be hosting Operation Purple this summer season. Sign up for eNotices about future Operation Purple camp opportunities at www.militarygamily.org.

Catch a Summer Adventure ... Six North Carolina camps open to everyone, 4-H member or not A rich camping tradition, dating from 1927 Programs tailored for both boys and girls, ages 5-17 Scenic locations, all an excellent value Unique programs and facilities at each camp include: 

Counselor and Leader in Training Programs • Traditional Camp Activities • Swimming • Team Building 

Campfire programs • Nature Study/Hikes • Arts & Crafts • Outdoor Living skills • Archery • Field Sports Camps for Military Kids: NC Operation Military Kids Heroes Camp, Camp Kid Courage for Military Youth Eastern 4-HCenter’s Operation: 4-Heroes

FEBRUARY 2011

FAMILY MATTERS

FREE $500 grants for military kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; activities

Our Military Kids (www.ourmilitarykids.org) wants to help your Family through this deployment. If you have a child ages 3 to 18 whose parent is currently deployed overseas with the National Guard or Reserves, your child is eligible for a grant. The grants, which can be up to $500, will pay for up to six months of an extracurricular activity of your choice. The process is simple. Visit our website and select the appropriate one-page application: www.ourmilitarykids.org/how-to-apply/apply-now.php. Once you download and complete the application, send it to us along with copies of three supporting documents: 1) A copy of the Title 10 deployment orders; 2) A form of ID for your child that proves dependency to the service member - we accept a Military ID, birth certificate, or 1172 DEERS form; 3) Contact and fee information for the activity of your choice - a flyer, brochure, etc. Once we receive your application and documents, a check is sent within ten days directly to the service provider of the activity. If you have any questions, please visit our FAQ page (www.ourmilitarykids.org/how-to-apply/faqs.php). If you don't see an answer to your question, call our office at (703) 734-6654. Keep in mind - we can only provide grants to children with a parent who is currently deployed - if your service member has yet to deploy, or has already returned home, the child is not eligible. If you have applied for a grant and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been six months, you can reapply for a 2nd grant if your Servicemember still has 30 days left on his/her orders. Our Military Kids looks forward to recognizing our littlest warriors for their service to our country!

Veterans Stand Down Community Fair February 1, 2011 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. American Legion Post 265 140 Broadhurst Road Jacksonville, NC The Onslow County Job Link Veterans Unit is hosting a Veterans Stand down. What is a Stand down? It is a local event held for homeless, indigent veterans and other qualified clients. The event includes a variety of free services such as health screenings, clothing, support services, employment opportunities, food, and more. FEBRUARY 2011

FAMILY MATTERS

College Bound Many of you are already in the ”hectic process” of planning for college next year and are finding the cost has increased like everything else. There are many resources available to aid in your search for financial aid. One of those resources is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) www.fafsa.ed.gov. It shows the different kinds of scholarships, federal and state grants, campus-based aid, and low-interest student loans that are available and the criteria for applying for them. If you have used this website in the past and found it difficult to use, this year the website has been completely redesigned and simplified—starting on the FAFSA home page. “FREE FAFSA HELP” every Tuesday night in February, college financial aid experts will be available to answer specific FAFSA questions at 866-866-2362 from 5 to 9pm. On Saturday, February 19th, 9am to noon, college financial aid experts will be available at more than 100 locations across North Carolina to help students and parents complete their FAFSA forms. The free assistance – open to any high school senior – will be at various colleges and credit unions. A list of all locations and registration information is available at CFNC.org/FAFSA or by calling 866-866-2362. Registration is encouraged. Another great resource is The College Foundation of North Carolina website, www.cfnc.org. It also has free resources including college cost estimators, listing of scholarship, grant and loan opportunities and information about North Carolina’s 529 college savings plan, career information, and online college admission and financial aid applications. Also the Department of Defense Education Activity, www.dodea.edu, has many more financial aid opportunities. Don’t forget our own North Carolina National Guard Association offers college scholarship. Check out www.ncnga.org.

Redesign your Budget For College Contact David Porter (704) 280-9555 FEBRUARY 2011

FAMILY MATTERS

Blood Drives

NORTH CAROLINA ARMY NATIONAL GUARD

February 1, 2011 American Legion Post 55 111 Miller St., Winston-Salem

FREE INCOME TAX RETURN PREPARATION PROGRAM

February 2, 2011 10 a.m.—6 p.m. Greensboro Coliseum Event Center February 3, 2011 10 a.m.—6 p.m. National Guard Armory 1935 North Church St., Burlington February 10, 2011 2:30 p.m.—7 p.m. 1535 Beecher Anderson Road, Lenoir

Sponsored by the OFFICE OF THE STAFF JUDGE ADVOCATE Volunteers affiliated with the Office of the Staff Judge Advocate will be preparing federal and state income tax returns free of charge for members of the NC National Guard and their Families during February, March, and April. Services are available in the Raleigh area by appointment only. Interested soldiers and Family members should contact Ms. Reita Smolka by email (tax.program@ng.army.mil) for additional information or to schedule appointments. Please bring the following items with you: Valid military identification for yourself and/or your spouse

“Every Drop Counts”

Social security cards for you, your spouse, and dependents (social security number verification letters issued by the Social Security Administration or military IDs are also valid) Birth dates for you, your spouse, and dependents Current year’s tax package if you received one Wage and earnings statement(s) (i.e. Form W-2, W-2G, 1099-R, etc. from all employers) Interest and dividend statements from banks (i.e. Form 1099-INT or 1099DIV) A copy of last year’s federal and state tax return

Become a Fan

Bank routing numbers and account numbers if you’d like to take advantage of direct deposit Other relevant information about income and expenses (especially if you plan to itemize deductions) such as medical receipts, mortgage interest statements, receipts evidencing property taxes paid, receipts evidencing charitable contributions, etc. Total amount paid for day care and the day care providers’ tax identification number (the individual’s Social Security Number or the business’ Employer Identification Number) Statement of a physician if you are blind and/or permanently and totally disabled

Search North Carolina National Guard Family Programs

Valid power of attorney if you will be signing the income tax returns on behalf of your spouse

FEBRUARY 2011

FAMILY MATTERS

Guarding Families on the Homefront: Family and Medical Leave Act Q. What are the military Family leave provisions of the FMLA? A. On January 28, 2008, President Bush signed into law new FMLA leave entitlements for military Families (“military Family leave provisions”). The National Defense Authorization Act for FY 2008 (“NDAA”), Public Law 110181, amended the FMLA to provide two types of military Family leave for FMLA-eligible employees. The new FMLA regulations include these two types of military Family leave referred to as “qualifying exigency leave” and “military caregiver leave.”

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Q. Are all employers required to provide military Family leave to their employees? A. No. The FMLA applies only to public agencies, including state, local and federal employers, local educational agencies (schools), and private sector employers that employ 50 or more employees. Q. Are all employees of a covered employer entitled to take military Family leave? A. No. To be eligible to take FMLA leave for any qualifying reason, an employee of a covered employer must have worked for the employer for a total of 12 months, have worked at least 1,250 hours over the previous 12 months, and work at a location where at least 50 employees are employed by the employer within 75 miles. See the general FMLA FAQ at www.dol.gov/whd/fmla/ finalrule.htm for additional information regarding employee eligibility. Q. Is military Family leave paid?

NCNG Legal Assistance Team

A. No. The FMLA only requires unpaid leave. However, the law permits an employee to elect, or the employer to require the employee, to use accrued paid leave for some or all of the FMLA leave period. An employee’s ability to elect to use accrued paid leave during a period of FMLA leave is determined by the terms and conditions of the applicable paid leave policy.

thomas.harington@us.army.mil

Qualifying Exigency Leave

919.334.9957

Thomas Harington, paralegal

Q. What is “qualifying exigency leave”? A. “Qualifying exigency leave” is one of the two new military Family leave provisions. It may be taken for any qualifying exigency arising out of the fact that a covered military member is on active duty or called to active duty status. The Department’s new regulations include a broad list of activities that are considered qualifying exigencies and will permit eligible employees who are Family members of a covered military member to take FMLA leave to address the most common issues that arise when a covered military member is deployed, such as attending military-sponsored functions, making appropriate financial and legal arrangements, and arranging for alternative childcare. For a complete list of qualifying exigencies, and details about the Act visit the Department of Labor website at www.dol.gov. Search Military FMLA.

Sarah Boshears, paralegal sarah.boshears.ctr@us.army.mil 919.334.9957

Shane Judd, paralegal shane.judd@us.army.mil 704.788-4553 FEBRUARY 2011

FAMILY MATTERS

Family Assistance Centers Virtual Career Fair for Veterans and Military Spouses March 10, 2011 11 a.m. Register at www.veteranscareerfair.com

Meet with dozens of industry leading employers and government agencies in one day and without the cost or hassle of having to travel. Register today for your chance to win an apple IPad. In Cooperation with:  Department of Labor  VA  MOAA  IAVA  Wounded Warrior Project  Student Veterans of America  Hire Heroes USA  USO  Disable American Veterans

Asheville Military Family Resource Center (MFRC) 7 Yorkshire St. Suite 101, 28803/Fax: (828) 274-8572 Debra Collington, FAC Network Coordinator debra.a.collington.ctr@us.army.mil, (828) 274-8571 Sue Bennett, FAC Specialist, susan.j.bennett.ctr@us.army.mil, (828) 274-8571 Charlotte Unit Family Contact Center (UFCC) 4240 West Blvd., 28208/Fax: (704) 359-5764 Doretha McLaughlin, FAC Specialist, doretha.mclaughlin1@us.army.mil, (704) 344-2352, Ext. 14548 Rachel Talbott, FAC Specialist, rachel.talbott@us.army.mil, (704) 344-2352, Ext. 14547 Fayetteville Unit Family Contact Center (UFCC) 449 East Mountain Dr., 28306/Fax: n/a Amy Wallace, FAC Specialist, amy.wallace3@us.army.mil, (910) 672-5125 Greensboro State Family Assistance Center (SFAC) 110 Franklin Blvd., 27401/Fax: (336) 691-7725 Katy Jones, FAC Network Coordinator, katy.m.jones@us.army.mil, (336) 691-7712 Sandy Harrison, FAC Specialist, sandy.harrison1@us.army.mil, (336) 691-7763 Greenville State Family Assistance Center (SFAC) 1401 N. Memorial Dr., 27834/Fax: (252) 551-6136 Dawn White, FAC Network Coordinator, dawn.white@us.army.mil, (800) 621-4136 Ext. 11150 Kannapolis Military Family Resource Center (MFRC) 6001 Gateway Ctr. Dr., Suite 109, 28081/Fax: (704) 788-0550 Shane Judd, FAC Coordinator/Legal Assistant, shane.judd@us.army.mil, (704) 788-4553 Sierra Johnson, FAC Specialist, sierra.johnson@us.army.mil, (704) 788-4554 Lynn White, FAC Specialist, lynn.white2@us.army.mil, (704) 788-4554 Kinston Unit Family Contact Center (UFCC) 2875 Dobbs Farm Rd., 28504/Fax: (252) 526-2772 Earlene Capps, FAC Specialist, earlene.capps@us.army.mil, (919) 334-9957 Gabrielle H. O’Flanagan, FAC Specialist, gabrielle.h.oflanagan.ctr@us.army.mil, (252) 526-2711 Lenoir State Family Assistance Center (SFAC) 1535 Beecher Anderson Rd., Lenoir, 28645/Fax: (828) 757-4519 Nancy Davis, FAC Network Coordinator, nancy.davis3@us.army.mil, (828) 757-4365 Ext. 4 line 2 Frances Johnson, FAC Specialist, frances.johnson3@us.army.mil, (828)757-4365 Ext. 4 line 1 Raleigh Military Family Resource Center (MFRC) 130 Penmarc Dr. Suite 110, 27603/(919) 334-9966/Fax: (919) 334-9971 Mark Woolbright, FAC Network Coordinator, mark.woolbright@us.army.mil, (919) 334-9966 Earlene Capps, FAC Specialist, earlene.capps@us.army.mil, (919) 334-9957 Lisa Faison, FAC Specialist, lisa.faison@us.army.mil, (919) 334-0196 Elijah Fisher, FAC Specialist, elijah.j.fisher.ctr@us.army.mil, (919) 334-0195 Smithfield Unit Family Contact Center (UFCC) 406 Hospital Rd., 27577/Fax: (919) 934-2901 Abby Millsap, FAC Specialist, abby.e.millsap@us.army.mil, (919)934-2013 Ext.16 Southern Pines Unit Family Contact Center (UFCC) 500 Morganton Rd., PO Box 1317, 28387/Fax: (910) 692-3659 David Butler, FAC Specialist, david.earl.butler@us.army.mil, (910) 692-8747 Wilmington Unit Family Contact Center (UFCC) 2412 Infantry Rd., 28405/Fax: (910) 251-7130 Jim Marley, FAC Specialist james.marley@us.army.mil, (910) 251-7195 Wilmington Military Family Resource Center (MFRC) 3114 Randall Pkwy., 28403/Fax: (910) 343-1776 Judy Howard, FAC Network Coordinator, judy.m.howard@us.army.mil, (910) 343-1775 Julie Rowe, FAC Specialist, julie.b.rowe@us.army.mil, (910) 343-1776

FEBRUARY 2011

FAMILY MATTERS

FEBRUARY 2011

FAMILY MATTERS