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July 2011—Volume 3, Issue 7
FAMILY MATTERS
BACK TO SCHOOL BRIGADE It’s that time of year again, and Family Programs staff have teamed up with Operation Homefront to lend a hand to Military Families. Getting children ready to go back to school can be a costly venture. Operation Homefront’s Back to School Brigade arms our Military Children with some supplies that help prepare them for school. AUG. 5, 3PM-6PM Location: Charlotte National Guard Armory, 4240 West BLVD. For questions, contact Charlotte FAC, Keneitha Delaney, at 704-344-2352 ext. 14547. AUG. 6, 1PM-4PM Location: Asheville National Guard Armory, 100 Minuteman Drive. There will be games, face painting and more. The event is for the first 100 children that are registered. For questions, contact Asheville FAC, Debra Collington, at 828-274-8571. AUG. 13, 10AM-2PM Location: Kannapolis Military Family Resource Center, 6001 Gateway Center Drive, Suite 109, Kannapolis. Refreshments are provided by the American Red Cross. For questions, contact Kannapolis FAC, Lynn White, at 704-788-4554. The event In Charlotte and Kannapolis is for the first 50 children that are registered. Parent(s) must: ~ Be rank E-1 to E-6, accompany their child(ren) to the event w/a military ID card. ~ Register online prior to the event at www.ohfnc.org. Registration starts July 1, 2011.
“Give the Gift of Life” American Red Cross Blood Drive Saturday, July 9 2 PM. – 6 PM.
Lenoir National Guard Armory 1535 Beecher Anderson Drive
Direct Questions to Lenoir Family Assistance Center Specialist, Frances Johnson, (828)757-4365 Ext. 4 line 1.
CAMP RONALD MCDONALD AUG. 7-12, 2011 Announcing a FREE Military Youth with Special Needs Camp … Camp Ronald McDonald at Eagle Lake, Northern California is hosting a camp August 7-12, 2011 for ages 8-18. Also being offered is up to $600.00 for transportation cost. The original dates have passed, but application has been extended to July 1, 2011. For More Information go to www.ca4h.org/Programs/MilitaryPartnership/ Camp_Ronald_McDonald_at_Eagle_Lake/. JULY 2011
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Family Matters July 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. 47005 SFC Calvin Buchan Family Program Assistant calvin.buchan@us.army.mil (919) 664-6000 Ext. 46124
Director’s Column | Summer Fun
Hello, July is the perfect time to celebrate friends and family by spending quality time doing fun and exciting things. Take some time off for relaxation. It is importance to make that time for not only your family and friends but, also for yourself! This month, we’ve packed our newsletter with 4th of July events happening across the State. We couldn’t include all of our cities; but, you may find it exciting to see how the places we’ve listed are celebrating. So, Happy Birthday, America! With that said, I’d also like to say how very proud we all are of our Servicemembers and their Families. Many of you have experienced multiple deployments and other frequent absences that have impacted your Family and daily life. “Thank you for all you do” is something you may hear pretty often. I’d like to say, this month, “thank you for keeping our Country safe, free and protected.”
SPC Carrie Stevens Family Program Assistant carolyn.stevens1@us.army.mil (919) 664-6000 ext. 46876
This month, we’d also like to remind you of summer safety. Please be careful in the heat, while in the water, and, most especially, while handling fireworks. Each of you are very important to us and together we make one strong Guard team.
Lana Greer State FAC Coordinator lana.m.greer@us.army.mil (828) 271-5029
I’d also like to mention that we want to make sure our kids go back to school in August just as strong academically (and even better) than when they got out in June. There’s tutor.com which offers free tutoring and more on a multitude of subjects. The internet is also filled with tons of free programs and activities. Keep your eyes out here and on Facebook for our annual Back to School events across the State. At these events, your kids can get geared up for school with a range of school supplies and more.
Kathleen Flaherty Airman & Family Readiness Program Mgr. kathleen.flaherty.ctr@ncchar.ang.af.mil
(704) 398-4949 Pamela Hughes State FRG Advisor pamela.hughes5@us.army.mil
(919) 693-5016 ext. 11 Alice Dean State Youth Coordinator alice.dean@us.army.mil (919) 664-6000 ext. 16289 North Carolina National Guard Family Programs State Office 4105 Reedy Creek Road Raleigh, NC 27607-6410 (919) 664-6053 www.nc.ngb.army.mil
If you need us for anything, you can find all of our numbers here. We’ll do what we can to help or point you in the right direction. Just give us a call or send us an email. We wish you, your family, friends, and loved ones a wonderful and safe July. Have lots of fun and enjoy life. Sincerely, Diane Coffill, State Family Program Director
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. E-Versions 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, or services, or the use of any trade, firm, or corporation name does not constitute endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by NCNG Family Programs.
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Set Your Sights on HAPPY Make the most of the summer months by seeking help for what may be bothering you or impacting your quality of life. North Carolina National Guard Behavioral Health Program This free service is a 24/7 helpline created for Soldiers and their Families to provide advice and referrals, if necessary. We're in this together and we're here to help. Don't let life's silent-killers rob your of the quality of life you and your Family deserve.
1-800-621-4136 ext. 1 Because What You Feel Matters. Because Your Concerns Count.
Military Family Life Consultants You don’t have to stand alone. We are here with you.
MilitaryOneSource.com Contact a Consultant 1.800.342.9647 Face-to-Face Counseling Telephone Consultation Online Consultation Email a Consultant Financial Consultation
JOBS WANTED. JOBS NEEDED. TAKE YOUR JOB SEARCH TO THE NEXT LEVEL WITH THE NC EMPLOYMENT READINESS PROGRAM
John Alleman Adult & Family Specialist (919) 745-9635
LEARN MORE BY CONTACTING: DAVID PONDER
Betty Steelman Child & Family Specialist (919) 665-9178
Asheville, NC 28803 Office: (828) 274-8571 Cell: (919) 485-9567
Asheville MFRC 7 Yorkshire St. Suite C
E-mail: david.ponder@us.army.mil
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Family Readiness Groups | Upcoming Training
Join Us ‌ 2011 National Volunteer Workshop July 24-29, 2011 Louisville, Kentucky NCNG Family Programs volunteers are invited to join us at the 2011 National Volunteer Workshop & Youth Symposium happening July 24—29, 2011, in Louisville, Kentucky. This FREE week-long trip will allow you to network with other volunteers from across the country, learn about new and existing programs and resources, and more. Spaces are limited. Act Fast. To take advantage of this opportunity contact: Pamela Hughes, State Family Readiness Advisor (800) 621-4136 ext. 8820 pamela.hughes5@us.army.mil
Yellow Ribbon
YELLOW RIBBON TEAM 800-621-4136 EXT. 46054
UNIT
DATE
LOCATION
TYPE
1452 TC CO
July 22-23
Greensboro
Pre-Deployment
883rd EN CO 881 EN CO
Aug. 12-13
TBD
Pre-Deployment
FREQUENTLY USED NUMBERS DEERS: 800-538-9552 Emergency Operations Center: 919-664-6531 Employment Readiness: 828-274-8571 Integrated Behavioral Health System: 800-621-4136 x.1 Legal Assistance: 919-334-9957 Military OneSource: 800-342-9647 Personal Financial Counselor: David Porter/704-280-9555 TriCare: 877-874-2273
Pamela Hughes FRG Advisor 105 West Spring Street Oxford, NC pamela.hughes5@us.army.mil Office: (919) 693-5016 ext. 11 Cell: (919) 485-9563
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 (919) 739-5319
gregory.paul.smith@us.army.mil
Jacksonville: Judy Richardson judy.r.richardson@us.army.mil (910) 347-4352/line 15 Morrisville: Jim Roberson james.roberson@us.army.mil (919) 804-5300 ext. 16313 Oxford: Norman Dean norman.dean@us.army.mil (919) 693-3651 x. 27
Keep Kids Busy in the Summer! Find Activities and More at MilitaryOnesource.Com
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Child & Youth Program | Cooling Off This Summer
NCNG Teen Camp July 17-22, 2011 Betsy Jeff Penn 4-H Educational Center 804 Cedar Lane, Reidsville, NC 27320
The NCNG Teen Camp is a FREE week-long camp that provides young adults, ages 14-18, the opportunity to participate in really neat programs, activities and allows them to make lifelong friends—who share their experiences as military teens. Teens will experience participate in canoeing, archery and other fun, challenging things.
BUILD LIFELONG FRIENDSHIPS ENJOY COOL ACTIVITIES LEARN SOMETHING NEW
Child & Youth Program Staff Alice Dean State Child & Youth Coordinator (800) 621-4136 ext. 16289 (919) 664-6000 ext. 16289 alice.dean@us.army.mil Bridgette Carroll KOG Coordinator (919) 693-3651 ext. 21 bridgette.carroll@us.army.mil Kristi Wagner Youth Coordinator (919) 693-3651 ext. 23 kristi.wagner@us.army.mil
This year’s camp is supported by the Project Y.E.S. (Youth Extension Service) Program, where college interns will focus on making teens both responsible and successful. Space is limited to 50 teens and some transportation will be available from the Eastern & Western part of the state. For more information or to reserve a space, Please call or email Alice Dean, State Child & Youth Coordinator, at 800621-4136 ext. 16289 or alice.dean@us.army.mil.
Kids on Guard In Charlotte this July Operation Kids on Guard invites Military Children ages 5 and up for a free one-day adventure. July 30th at the Charlotte Armory, 4240 West BLVD, Kids will team up to master the game Minefield, test their aim with the new mobile archery program, explore the world of bionics and electricity and much, much more. Register at the North Carolina National Guard website at www.nc.ngb.army.mil, Child and Youth Programs or contact Bridgette Carroll at 919-693-3651 ext. 21, Bridgette.carroll@us.army.mil or Alice Dean, State Child & Youth Coordinator, at 800-621-4136 ext. 16289 or alice.dean@us.army.mil.
Coming in August! Register now for KOG Overnight Weekend Camp August 12-14: Stem, Camp Butner Training Facility, 539 Roberts Chapel Rd., Stem NC 27581 JULY 2011
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Events | Upcoming Events
Single Soldier Retreat “How Not to Date a Jerk or Jerkette”
STRONG BONDS Marriage Enrichment Retreat “Laughing Your Way to a Better Marriage” July 8-10: Myrtle Beach, SC July 29-31: Myrtle Beach, SC August 26-28: Asheville, NC Learn how laughter can lead to a happier marriage and better communication.
August 26-28 Myrtle Beach, SC www.nc.ngb.army.mil/index.php/fp/singles
JOB FAIRS
Registration Forms are available at www.nc.ngb.army.mil/index.php/fp/strongbonds/marriage-enrichment. Contact PFC Stevens at (800) 621-4136 ext. 46876 or carolyn.stevens1@us.army.mil for questions. Share your Marriage Enrichment Retreat experiences with us on Facebook. Find us at “North Carolina National Guard Family Programs.”
NCNG FAMILY RETREAT Extraordinary Fun for Extraordinary Families
Friday, Aug. 19: MCAS New River, NC Thursday, Oct. 27: Ft. Bragg, NC Learn more about other job fairs across the country at civilianjobs.com. Dates and locations are subject to change. Contact Vicki Washington Senior Events Coordinator (678) 819-4147 vwashington@civilianjobs.com
August 26-28, 2011 Gatlinburg, TN www.nc.ngb.army.mil/ index.php/fp/strong-bonds/ family-retreat JULY 2011
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Events | July 2011 ABERDEEN Annual Aberdeen July 4th Celebration, July 4 The Town of Aberdeen’s 46th Annual July 4th Celebration will offer entertainment and activities for people of all ages. Activities and games will start around 5:30pm with live music by The Entertainers beginning at 6pm. Fireworks will start at 9:15pm. Admission is free to the park. Children can purchase a wrist band for $3.00, which will allow them to participate in games and a variety of activities, win prizes, and have their face painted. Festivities include games, prizes, food, live music and fireworks. Aberdeen Lake Park. Contact: 910-944-PARK. ANGIER 4th of July Ringing of the Bells Celebration, July 2, 11am The Ringing of the Bells Celebration will begin at 11am with a short program and entertainment. The bells will be rung at Noon. Everyone will have an opportunity to ring the bells. Guests are invited to tour the Coats Country Museum, as well as the Coats House. Location: Coats Estate, 3317 Old Fairground Rd. Contact: Alice Honeycutt 919-894-4443. APEX Olde Fashioned 4th of July Celebration, July 4, 9am-1pm Carnival games, cakewalk, inflatables rides, clowns, jugglers and karakoe. Uncle Sam’s Parade of Wheels startsa at NOON ending with the Apex Fire Department Splash Down!Decorate your non motorized bike, wagon or scooter and show up at 11:30am at the Corner of Chatham and Salem St. across from Apex Baptist Church. You must wear a bicycle helmet during the parade, if riding a bike. Location: Historic Downtown Apex. For more information contact 919-249-1120. ASHEVILLE Downtown Asheville 4th of July Celebration, July 4 The City of Asheville invites you to Pack Square Park for the 4th of July Celebration. An event for the whole family, the festivities start at 4pm and close with fireworks at 9:30pm. The day will feature live music from some of Asheville’s hottest bands, along with a wide range of family activities, and a variety of food from area vendors. Visit www.romanticasheville.com/fourth.htm for more events near the Asheville Area. ARCHDALE Creekside Park 4th of July Celebration, July 4 The City of Archdale will celebrate the July 4th holiday in fine style this year. As has been seen in the past, Creekside Park comes alive with festivities, food and music. Entertainment this year will be provided by ―The Part Time Party Time Band‖. We will again have amusement rides and games. Fireworks will be bigger and better than ever! Get more details at www.archdalenc.gov. ATLANTIC BEACH Atlantic Beach 4th of July Celebration, July 4, 7pm-11pm Head out to ―The Circle‖ in Atlantic Beach, featuring a band and fireworks at 9pm. Call 252-726-2121 for more information.
4th of July BELHAVEN, NC Belhaven's 4th of July Parade, July 4, 11am - Midnight A street dance, parade and pageants are topped off with fireworks on the water. Don’t miss a festive Fourth in Belhaven, one of the oldest 4th of July celebrations in the state. Call 252-943-3770 for information. BURLINGTON Independence Day Celebration, July 2, 6pm-10pm In The Park - Burlington City Park; Games: 6pm – 8pm, free on Field #1 & at Thataways Youth Center, Fireworks: 9:30pm. For All Ages. Burlington will have the original Independence Day Celebration at the Burlington City Park as they did many years ago. Remember the sack races, the water balloon toss, and watermelon eating contests? It’s all back by popular demand. The Attractions Band will perform at 6pm and The Company Shops Concert Band will take the stage at 9:15pm and perform during the launching of the aerial fireworks display. This event is for the young and the young at heart, so make plans now for an evening of fun, music, and fireworks. Food and drink concessions will also be available throughout the park. For more information, please call 336-222-5030 or 336-513-5469. CAMP LEJEUNE MARINE BASE July 4th Celebration, July 4, 5pm The celebration begins at 5pm and is open to the public. It will be held at WPT Hill Field. Pets and alcohol are prohibited. Concert starring Lee Ann Womack and featuring Jace Everett and Karg Bros. Fireworks following concert. CAROLINA BEACH Pleasure Island Independence Day Fireworks Extravaganza, July 3, 9pm Come down to the beach strand directly in front of the Boardwalk in Carolina Beach and enjoy the best fireworks display this Island has to offer. Be sure to bring your blanket, beach chairs and food and prepare yourself for a show like none other. Fireworks begin at 9pm and are free and open to the public. Call 910-458-8434 for more information. Locatin: On the beach end of Cape Fear Blvd. Contact www.pleasureislandnc.org. CARTHAGE Carthage July 4th Parade, July 4, 11am Join us for a traditional parade with floats, cars, color guard, music, and food. Monroe Street, Downtown Carthage. Free. Contact: 910-947-2331. (continued on next page)
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Events | July 2011
Independence Day CLAYTON Clayton’s July 4th Celebration, July 4, 4pm-9:15pm There will be rides, food, games and fun ending with a live performance and the largest fireworks display in the area. Location: Clayton Municipal Park. Contact: Susan Jenkins 919-553-1555.
CARY Cary Town Band Concert: Summerfest 4th of July, July 4, 5:45pm The Cary Town Band, the North Carolina Symphony, and fireworks - what could make the 4th of July more perfect? Come join Summerfest 2011 for the annual 4th of July Celebration. At 5:45 PM the Cary Town Band brings you an old fashion play-in-the-park concert like your great grandparents enjoyed a hundred years ago when they celebrated the 4th of July. Patriotic music, circus music, and more, while stretched out on a blanket on the grass. Location: Koka Booth Amphitheatre, Cary. Admission: free. CHARLOTTE Coca Cola 4th of July Festival, July 2 – July 4, 4pm, 6pm, & 8pm The USNWC Coca Cola 4th of July event is a three-day music festival to celebrate the fourth. Admission is free, but there is a standard $5 parking fee. If you haven't checked out the Whitewater Center, it's an excellent venue for a concert or just to relax by the waterside. More information can be found online at usnwc.org. Location: 5000 Whitewater Center Parkway, Charlotte. Presbyterian Hospital July 4th Spectacular, July 4, 6pm – 10pm Head down to Memorial Stadium on July 4th for Red, White & Boom! There will be plenty of family-friendly activities for all to enjoy including watermelon eating contests, sack races, tug of war and more. There's also live music and plenty to do for adults Activities start at 4pm and last until 9pm … when the real attraction takes over. At 9:30pm, one of the area's biggest and longest fireworks displays begins. Location: 310 N. Kings Drive, Charlotte.
CONCORD God Bless America, July 3, 10:30am Honoring all branches of Armed and Civil Services with a Special Recognition of the 10th Anniversary of 9/11. We will also have displays and military memorabilia from Civil War to Present-Day available for viewing in the Family Ministry Center July 3rd after the service (until 6pm) and July 4th-6th from 10am-6pm. All those currently or previously serving in the military or civil services, and all family members are welcome. Location: 1069 Central Drive. Contact: 704-782-0565 or visit www.parkwoodbaptist.com. CORNELIUS Cornelius 4th of July Celebration, July 4, 6:30pm The Town of Cornelius will also be celebrating on July 4th in a ―laid back‖ family-friendly way. Starting at 6:30pm, families can play games, dance and picnic at this casual patriotic presentation. At 6:30pm:, Acoustic Soulution, kids can ride the trackless train,concessions, Coca-Cola activities including touchscreen Coke games, WII games, free product samplings and more! At 8:30pm, the movie The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader will be shown on the blimp screen. Located at the Cornelius Town Hall, 21445 Catawba Ave. 704892-6031 ext 160. DAVIDSON Davidson 4th of July Celebration, July 3, 5:15pm-8pm The Town of Davidson will hold their annual Fourth of July Celebration. Festivities include their annual small-town parade. All are invited to ―patriotically dress their bicycles, wagons, pets and strollers‖ and participate by meeting at Davidson Town Hall and lining up by 5:15pm. Da Throwback Band will perform at The Concert on the Green beginning at 6pm. Music and games for all ages will be set up on the Village Green and a children amusement area will be available for a $5 admission. There will be no fireworks this year. More information: 704.892.7591. (continued on next page)
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Recap | Independence Day
WHEN IN THE COURSE OF HUMAN EVENTS... "Taxation without representation!" That was the battle cry of the 13 colonies in America that were forced to pay taxes to England's King George III with no representation in Parliament. As dissatisfaction grew, British troops were sent in to quell any signs of rebellion, and repeated attempts by the colonists to resolve the crisis without war proved fruitless. On June 11, 1776, the colonies' Second Continental Congress meeting in Philadelphia formed a committee with the express purpose of drafting a document that would formally sever their ties with Great Britain. The committee included Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, Roger Sherman and Robert R. Livingston. The document was crafted by Jefferson, who was considered the strongest and most eloquent writer. ( Nevertheless, a total of 86 changes were made to his draft. ) The final version was officially adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4. The following day, copies of the Declaration of Independence were distributed and, on July 6, The Pennsylvania Evening Post became the first newspaper to print the extraordinary document. The Declaration of Independence has since become our nation's most cherished symbol of liberty.
Bonfires and Illuminations On July 8, 1776, the first public readings of the Declaration were held in Philadelphia's Independence Square to the ringing of bells and band music. One year later, on July 4, 1777, Philadelphia marked Independence Day by adjourning Congress and celebrating with bonfires, bells and fireworks. The custom eventually spread to other towns, both large and small, where the day was marked with processions, oratory, picnics, contests, games, military displays and fireworks. Observations throughout the nation became even more common at the end of the War of 1812 with Great Britain.
On June 24, 1826, Thomas Jefferson sent a letter to Roger C. Weightman, declining an invitation to come to Washington, D.C., to help celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. It was the last letter that Jefferson, who was gravely ill, ever wrote. In it, Jefferson says of the document:
"May it be to the world, what I believe it will be ... the signal of arousing men to burst the chains ... and to assume the blessings and security of selfgovernment. That form, which we have substituted, restores the free right to the unbounded exercise of reason and freedom of opinion. All eyes are opened, or opening, to the rights of man. ... For ourselves, let the annual return of this day forever refresh our recollections of these rights, and an undiminished devotion to them."
Congress established Independence Day as a holiday in 1870, and in 1938 Congress reaffirmed it as a holiday, but with full pay for federal employees. Today, communities across the nation mark this major midsummer holiday with parades, fireworks, picnics and the playing of the "Star Spangled Banner" and marches by John Philip Sousa *This article was obtained by PBS.ORG at www.pbs.org/capitolfourth/history.html*
North Carolina’s annual free fishing day always falls on July 4th. Residents and nonresidents may fish without a license in all public waters, including coastal waters, from 12:01 a.m. until 11:59 p.m. All other fishing regulations, such as length and daily limits, as well as bait and tackle restrictions, apply. A list of all Public Fishing Access areas, Community Fishing Program sites and Tackle Loaner Program sites can be found on the Wildlife Commission’s Web site . For more information on fishing in North Carolina’s public, inland waters, contact the Division of Inland Fisheries, 919733-3633.
NC FREE FISHING DAY
ALL NC PUBLIC WATERS
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Events | July 2011 FAYETTEVILLE/FORT BRAGG Annual Fourth of July Celebration - Fort Bragg, North Carolina, July 4, 3pm-10pm The annual July 4th Celebration is held at the Main Post Parade Field. Activities include two of today's hottest musical acts; parachute freefall demonstrations; our popular flag ceremony; fireworks; and food and beverages. Pets, glass bottles, and BBQ grills are not allowed. All tents and shelters must be erected in the designated area, space is limited. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early due to heavy traffic flow. The event is free and open to the public. For information call (910) 396-9126. Be sure to visit Ft Bragg's display of entries for the Army Arts & Crafts competition and cast your vote for the People's Choice Award! The July 4th Celebration was voted one of the top 20 events in the southeast by the Southeast Tourism Society!
Become a Fan Search North Carolina National Guard Family Programs
GREENSBORO (continued) Pops Concert & Fireworks, July 4, 7:30pm-10pm Thrill to the display of elaborate specialty shells along with Sousa Marches. Seating is available for 7,600 inside the Amphitheatre. Best view of the Piedmont's largest fireworks display. Food and beverage vendors will be adjacent to the Amphitheatre (no outside food and beverage inside the Amphitheatre). Blankets and cushions will be allowed in the Amphitheatre (no chairs, please). Tailgating will be allowed in the Coliseum Complex parking lots. Parking and Admission is free. Rain Date: July 5th. Location: White Oak Amphitheatre at Greensboro Coliseum Complex. GREENVILLE 4th of July Celebration, July 4, 5pm Bring the entire family to Greenville's 4th of July Celebration in the Town Common. We will celebrate the 4th with carnival rides, arts and crafts, music, vendors, food, and a fantastic display of fireworks.
GREENSBORO Kickoff Block Party, July 2, 7pm-11pm Embrace the heat, dream you're at the beach and shag the night away to your favorite musical hits. Admission is $10; proceeds benefit the Fun Fourth Festival Special Exhibits. Corner of Summit, Lindsay and Church Streets. Parade & Street Festival, July 4, 9:30am The Fun Fourth Parade is in downtown Greensboro The Parade route begins at Greene and Lindsay, proceeds south on Greene, east on Market, north on Church, ending at the Greensboro Children's Museum.
HIGH POINT Uncle Sam Jam, July 4, 4:30pm Meet us at High Point’s Parks and Recreation for the annual Uncle Sam Jam at Oak Hollow Festival Park. Gates open at 4:30pm with fireworks at 9:45pm. Entertainment for the whole family! $10 per car load. HUNTERSVILLE Huntersville 9th Annual 4th of July Celebration, July 4, 10am-1pm The Town of Huntersville will be hosting their 9th Annual Fourth of July at Birkdale Village…a family-friendly celebration. Activities include a parade, a bike decorating contest, a water fight between the fire stations, childrens’ arts and crafts, face painting, a clown bounce, music, food and ―A whole lot of fun!!!‖ Contact: 704-895-8744. (continued on page 13)
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Events | July 2011 KURE BEACH Free Summer Concert, July 8, 6:30pm Summertime at the beach is all about sun, sand, waves, seafood and MUSIC! So we're bringing you our FREE Summer Concert Series. Bring blankets and chairs for the whole family and prepare to boogie the night away. Please do not bring pets or beverages. Beverages for sale. Call 910-458-8434. Fort Fisher Military Recreation Area, 118 Riverfront Road, Kure Beach. Visit www.pleasureislandnc.org. LENOIR 4th of July Celebration, July 4, 4:30pm-10pm Lenoir’s 4th of July Celebration will be held at the Mulberry Recreation Center. Games, Prizes and waterslides will be at the park for a day of family fun. Fireworks will start at 9:30 p.m. LINCOLNTON Lincolnton 4th of July Parade, July 4, 8pm-9pm Begins at 402 East Main St. and ends At Lincolnton High School, Lincolnton, NC 28092.Contact: Donna Flowers. Business: 704-736-8980. LUMBERTON Family Fourth Fireworks Celebration, July 2, 7pm Join us at Lumberton Senior High School. Fireworks start at 9 pm, the band ―Goldrush‖ will perform. Contact: 910-671 -3869 for more information. NEW BERN, NC July 4th Activities & Fireworks, July 4, 11am New Bern Parks & Recreation invites you to Union Point Park for an afternoon packed with fun and excitement. There will be bounce houses, a giant slide, an obstacle course, and misting tents. At 6pm, members from the Carolinian Shakespeare Festival will treat the crowd to a reading of the Declaration of Independence, followed by our National Anthem, and guest speakers. Then, the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing Band from Cherry Point providing musical entertainment. The excitement continues with a patriotic fireworks show. The aerial display features meteors, crackling comets, stars, butterflies, peonies, and lots of sparkle to light up the sky. Pack a picnic and plan to spend this great American holiday in historic New Bern. We welcome coolers and service animals, but prohibit alcohol, glass containers, fireworks, and all other pets. Contact: 252-639-2902. PINE LEVEL Pine Level 4th of July Celebration, July 4, 8:30am-9pm Amusements, kickball/softball tournaments, live entertainment, and fire truck rides throughout the day. Location: Sam Godwin Park. Contact: 919-965-2284. PINEHURST 4th of July Celebration with Fireworks, July 4, 5pm Join the festivities...fun and games for all ages, including pony rides, Sparky and friends and more to delight the young and old. The Vision Band performs at 6pm. Food and beverages available by local caterers, or bring your own picnic. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets. The fireworks will begin at 9:15pm at the 1 Mile Track. The Fair Barn, Pinehurst Harness Track, Route 5, Pinehurst. Contact: 910-295-2817.
RALEIGH Raleigh Fireworks at the NC Fairgrounds, July 4, 2:30pm This free event includes an entire afternoon of prefireworks entertainment including live music, games and inflatable rides. The Main Stage will be located in the new midway area - best access from Gate 9. Special musical performance by bluegrass band Sweet Potato Pie and the Midway Main Stage will feature country music singer Holland Marie, performing at 7:30 pm. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets for main stage concert. No coolers or pets allowed. Gates open at 2:30pm Activities begin at 3pm. Fireworks are at 9:15 p.m. In the event of inclement weather, all indoor activities will remain as scheduled and all outdoor activities will be cancelled. The fireworks display will be rescheduled for Saturday, July 5 at 9:00 p.m. Celebrate July 4th at State Capitol with Free Activities, July 4, 11am-3pm Enjoy Independence Day at the State Capitol's annual celebration Monday, July 4. For the second year, a naturalization ceremony for some 30 new citizens will take place on the Capitol steps at noon. From 11 a.m.-3 p.m. visitors can enjoy free musical performances, historical and military displays, carriage rides, kids' activities and a reading of ―The Declaration of Independence.‖ The Raleigh Concert Band and instrumentalists Gail Leonard and Chris Anderson will perform patriotic tunes. Location: NC State Capitol, Raleigh. ROCKINGHAM East Coast Biker “Rally at the Rock,” July 1-4 You'll see fireworks happening on the track as motorcycles and muscle cars square off at the first annual East Coast Biker Rally. But the action won't be limited to just the track, The East Coast Biker Rally will be a jam-packed extended holiday weekend, with on-going entertainment under the Big Top. Locatin: Rockingham Dragway, 2153 US Hwy 1 North, Rockingham. For more information visit www.eastcoastbikerrally.com. ROCKY MOUNT 40th Independence Day Celebration, July 3 The City of Rocky Mount celebrates Independence Day every year on the 3rd of July. It takes place at the Rocky Mount Municipal Stadium. The night features live bands, entertainment, food and lots of community spirit. The festivities culminate in a spectacular fireworks show. Contact: 252-972-1159. SELMA 4th of July Celebration, July 4, 5pm-10pm Come celebrate our nation's birthday in Uptown Selma. There will be live entertainment, craft and food vendors, a children's area, and a fireworks presentation at 9:15pm. Location: 100 N. Raiford St. Contact: Joe Carter at 919975-1411. Admission: free. (continued on next page)
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Events | July 2011 SMITHFIELD Benson's 4th of July, July 4, 3pm-9:30pm Enjoy a Fourth of July Celebration with food, games, entertainment, and live music, raffle, and fireworks. Location: Singing Grove, 1204 N. Johnson St., Benson, NC 27504. Admission: free. Smithfield's Friends of the 4th, July 2, 5pm-10pm This afternoon and evening festival will be filled with games and musical entertainment for the entire family. The independence celebration will conclude with a traditional fireworks display at 9:30pm. Location: Downtown Smithfield, 200 South Front St. Info: www.downtownsmithfield.com or 919-934-0887. Admission: free. SOUTHERN PINES/SURROUNDING AREA Carthage July 4th Parade, July 3, 11am Join this free, traditional parade with floats, cars, color guard, music and food. Location: Monroe Street, Downtown Carthage. Contact: 910-947-2331. SOUTHPORT 4th of July Festival, July 4 For over 200 years the City of Southport has celebrated our nation’s independence. This year will be no exception. Over 50,000 people attend the festival each year. Festival events include: naturalization ceremony, over 100 arts & craft booths, food vendors cooking everything from shrimp burgers to bar-b-que, 5K Freedom Run/Walk, parade televised live on WECT TV-6, Sea Notes Choral Concert, live stage entertainment, fireworks, Franklin Square Art Gallery’s National Art Show, children’s entertainment & games, the opening of the Old Jail, pancake breakfast, Beach Day events such as sandcastle building, surf, horseshoe, volleyball and Shag contests. The official dates of the festival are July 2-4 but some years the organizers include July 1st, & 5th. For more information contact: Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce, 4841 Long Beach Road, SE, Southport, NC 28461. Phone 800-457-6964 or e-mail us at events@southportoakisland.com. SURF CITY Children’s Fishing Competition and Celebration, July 2 Check out the July 2nd Children’s Fishing Competition and Celebration, geared towards children up to age 16. Pre-registration required. Check www.surfcityoceanpier.com.
WINSTON-SALEM July 4th at Old Salem, July 4, 9:30am-5:30pm Visit Old Salem Museums & Gardens to celebrate July 4th as the Moravians did in the 18th century. A special service of the 1783 Psalm of Joy will take place in Home Moravian Church, and is open to the public. In the afternoon a procession around Salem Square will the first July 4th celebration of July 4th, 1783, and visitors will be asked to participate. Throughout the day hands-on activities and demonstrations of 18th and 19th century life will entertain the whole family. Location: Old Salem Museum and Gardens, Winston-Salem. Contact: 336-721-7350. WILMINGTON 4TH of July Riverfront Celebration, July 4, 5pm-9:30pm Join our celebration for lots of festivities and family fun. We’ll be located along Water Street in historic downtown Wilmington with music by Daniel Parish Band. Fireworks at 9:05pm. 15th Annual Battleship Blast, July 4, 9:05pm One of the largest choreographed fireworks displays in the State, the 50th Anniversary celebration will not disappoint as it explodes over the Battleship. View from historic downtown Wilmington. You don't want to miss this year as the fireworks display will take on new forms that have never been seen in Wilmington before!! The Battleship closes at 6pm for fireworks. For more information, contact 910.251.5797. Location: Battleship North Carolina, 1 Battleship Road, Wilmington, or visit www.battleshipnc.com. WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH Sounds of Summer Concert, July 7, 6:30pm Bring a picnic and enjoy a music-filled day in the park. Sponsored by WECT and hosted by Wrightsville Beach Parks & Recreation, tonight's band is The 69 Ramblers. In the event of rain, concerts will be held the following Thursdays. Wrightsville Beach Park, 1 Bob Sawyer Drive, Wrightsville Beach. (END OF EVENT LISTING)
CHECK OUR EVENTS CALENDAR FOR MORE!
SWANSBORO Annual July 4th Celebration, July 4, 6pm-10pm The celebration will be held downtown. The North Tower Band will play from 6-10 PM. A display of fireworks is planned. For more information, call 910 326 7370. WASHINGTON Lee Chevrolet Buick's 4th of July Celebration & the City of Washington's Fireworks, July 4 5pm-9:30pm Enjoy fun-filled activities for the entire family. Spare Change will perform at 6:30pm. Fireworks will cap off the night just after dark. Contact: 252-946-3969.
www.nc.ngb.army.mil/index.php/fp/events
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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
FAMILY ASSISTANCE CENTERS
Charlotte Unit Family Contact Center (UFCC) 4240 West Blvd., 28208 Fax: n/a Keneitha Delaney, FAC Specialist keneitha.delaney@us.army.mil (704) 344-2352 Ext. 14548 Fayetteville Unit Family Contact Center (UFCC) 3555 Owen 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) 691-7766 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 1-800-621-4136 Ext. 11150 Kannapolis Military Family Resource Center (MFRC) 6001 Gateway Center Dr., Suite 109, 28081 Fax: (704) 788-0550 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 Gabrielle H. O’Flanagan, FAC Specialist gabrielle.h.oflanagan.ctr@us.army.mil 252-208-0255 Ext. 15817 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
Raleigh Military Family Resource Center (MFRC) 130 Penmarc Dr. Suite 110, 27603 Fax: (919) 334-9971 Earlene Capps, FAC Specialist earlene.capps@us.army.mil (919) 334-0195 Lisa Faison, FAC Specialist lisa.faison@us.army.mil (919) 334-0196 Mark Woolbright, FAC Network Coordinator mark.woolbright@us.army.mil (919) 334-9966 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-) 251-7100 Ext. 16918 Wilmington Military Family Resource Center (MFRC) 3114 Randall Pkwy., 28403 Fax: (910) 343-6953 Judy Howard, FAC Network Coordinator judy.m.howard@us.army.mil (910) 343-1775 JULY 2011
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