June 2012 Family Matters

Family Matters June 2012—Volume 4, Issue 6

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Engaging Teens and Technology Camp Swannanoa, North Carolina

Park Passes Employment Assistance and more!

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Volume 4, Issue 6

FAMILY MATTERS JUNE 2012

Contents 4 5 7 9 10 11 13 14 15 16 17 18 19

Director’s Column Getaways Air Guard Teen: A Delegate for NCNG Teen Retreat Family Fun SRP/Yellow Ribbon Nothin’ Sweeter than Carolinas Take 5: Heat Injuries It’s All about the Dollar Bills Unemployed Veterans Assistance Kids on Guard Volunteer Spotlight Ready Set; Prepare

Want to be on the cover of the next Family Matters? Send a photo with a short description (who, doing what, when, where) and who took the photo to ncngFamilyprograms@gmail.com

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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 SGT Tammy Fowler Family Programs Assistant tammy.l.fowler@us.army.mil (919) 664-6000 Ext 46876 Wendi Bell FAC Administrative Assistant wendi.bell@us.army.mil (919) 664-6078 Lana Greer State FAC Coordinator lana.m.greer@us.army.mil (828) 652-4595 Ext. 2 Terry Henderson Airman & Family Readiness Program Mgr. terry.henderson@ang.af.mil (704) 398-4949 Alice Dean Lead Child & Youth Coordinator alice.dean@us.army.mil (919) 520-9548 Angelena Dockery Marketing & Communications Manager sallie.a.dockery@us.army.mil (919) 485-9570 Kathryn Jarvis Marketing & Communications Manager Kathryn.jarvis@us.army.mil (919) 485-9571 Judy Richardson Senior FRSA judy.richardson@us.army.mil (910) 347-4352 Ext. 5 NC National Guard Family Programs State Office 1636 Gold Star Drive Raleigh, NC 27607-6410 (919) 664-6053 www.nc.ngb.army.mil

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DIRECTOR’S COLUMN || Summer Kickoff

For most of our Families, it’s the end of the school year. It’s time for summer fun, family vacations and a little rest and relaxation.

We hope that you and your Family will use this Summer to spend quality time together, enjoying what North Carolina and the National Guard Family Programs has to offer our Military Families.

From the mountains to beaches, we have staff that has something to offer everyone. Whether it is information, services or benefits we point in the right direction for your particular needs.

Our state is unique because of our communities, Servicemembers and our Outstanding Families who make North Carolina National Guard Family Programs not just another program but a community. Military Families create a place of support, strength, courage, understanding and success wherever they are located. We’ve added in this month’s edition some events that are going on across the our great State.

But our borders are not limited to just North Carolina, throughout the Nation communities are rising up to the challenge of making a difference to Military Families. Every bit of support and action accounts for a stronger, better Military Family.

Most have heard the saying; “Two heads are better than one.” We challenge you to Join Forces with our Family Programs staff whether it is through our Military Veterans Partnership Program, Kids on Guard, Yellow Ribbon, Teen Council, or Family Readiness Groups.

We look forward to seeing you this Summer!

Sincerely, Diane Coffill, State Family Program Director diane.coffill2@us.army.mil

In the United States Flag Day is celebrated on June 14. It commemorates the adoption of the flag of the United States, which happened that day by resolution of the Second Continental Congress in 1777.[1] The United States Army also celebrates the Army Birthday on this date; Congress adopted "the American continental army" after reaching a consensus position in the Committee of the Whole on June 14, 1775.

[2][3]

In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation that officially established June 14 as Flag Day; in August 1949, National Flag Day was established by an Act of Congress.

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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June 8-10, 2012—Asheville, NC July 27-29, 2012—Charleston, SC

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Getaways F o r Se r v i c e m e m b e r s a n d F a m i l i e s Operation Purple® Healing Adventures is a family camp experience for active duty or medically retired service members who were wounded or experienced emotional trauma or illness related to their service in Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) or Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF). Members of the National Guard and Reserve may be in either activated or drilling status, provided their injury was sustained while on active duty status. Food, lodging, and activities are all provided to families at no cost. Families are responsible for their own transportation to and from the camp location. Upon request, limited financial assistance for family travel may be made available on a case-by-case basis.

In 2012, the National Military Family Association is partnering with the USO to offer three Operation Purple Healing Adventures. Each family camp will be held at selected regional locations that provide activities in an outdoor setting designed to celebrate rediscovering family fun and togetherness after an injury. The program will include both family-focused activities and the opportunity for parents to relax and enjoy quiet time while their children participate in exciting outdoor exploration supervised by camp counselors.

In addition, Healing Adventures will include structured activities developed by the FOCUS Program (Families Overcoming Under Stress™). These activities highlight areas of strength and resilience in the family and promote family growth. Families are supported in working together to enhance their relationships through communication activities aimed at building connections and family closeness.

The following camps are accepting applications: NatureBridge in Olympic National Park, Port Angeles, WA - Sept 28 - Oct 1 YMCA Camp H.R. Erdman Waialua, HI – November 2-5 Joe C. Davis Outdoor Center Antioch, TN – December 7-10 For more information or to register, go online to www.militaryfamily.org/our-programs/operation-purple/wounded-warriorsfamilies/

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NORTH CAROLINA AIR GUARD TEEN AMONG TOP YOUTH

Second from the left, Maleek Harms, North Carolina Air National Guard Teen, stands with Military Teens and Dr. Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden, Educator and Blue Star Mom (middle). Only a handful of Military Teens were selected by National Guard Bureau as delegates during this year’s National 4-H Conference in Washington, DC. Delegates for State and National events are required to be active in their state’s Youth Program and/or community, be at least 14 years old and have a passing GPA.

North Carolina National Guard Military Teen, Maleek Harms, has been active with our Youth Program for more than a year. Last year Maleek was one of two teens selected to be North Carolina’s Youth delegate at the 2011 National Guard Youth Symposium. When he wasn’t busy representing our State, he was leading North Carolina National Guard Military Teens during our 2011 Teen Camp. His exemplary work ethic, involvement in the Youth Program and drive won the attention of National Guard Bureau Family Programs staff and a spot during the National 4-H Conference this past March in Washington, DC. He has continued to go above and beyond for our Military Teens. The Following highlight beginning on page nine is Maleek’s experience during his last adventure to DC. Thank you Maleek for all you do!

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Adventure

NCNG Teens

It’s More than Just and Experience

By Maleek Harms I will never forget the experiences that I had when I went to the 2012 4-H conference in Washington D.C. I flew by myself from Charlotte straight into D.C., was met by group leaders, was transported to the 4H site and checked into my room.

After I checked into my room and I met my roommates. They were all a great bunch of guys and I knew immediately it was going to be a great experience. We started the conference with an “ice breaker” or social activity that allowed us to meet and mingle with the other conference members. We learned that during the next two days we were going to primarily brainstorm about how to incorporate our topics that we were given into a presentation, which we were to present to our government officials. My group was selected to present to the United States Department of Agriculture on Wednesday! I felt both excited and nervous but we had two days and a great team so I had confidence that we would leave a great impression!

end product, how to actually present the information from the power point, and much more. I thought that this was really great because they taught me a lot of useful information that I can take back and use in my school work, volunteer work, and college courses. In one ice breaker workshop we would have a piece of paper taped to our backs and we had to meet 10 other people that we did not know. After talking to the person for about a minute or so we would then have to write our first impression of them. I thought that this was a really interesting ice breaker and I will definitely use this in my school club along with other really great ice breakers.

“...I Knew immediately it was

going to be a great experience.”

As a part of the process of preparing for the presentation we participated in several different workshops and more icebreakers. Some of them included how to make a power point presentation, how organization affects the flow of your work and

We all were really nervous when it came time to present to the USDA because for many of us, this was the first time we have ever had to give a presentation.

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Not to mention that it was a presentation in front of government officials! Never-the-less, our presentation went very smooth and there were no mistakes. I thought that it was awesome that the USDA officials actually took the time to listen to our presentation and hear what young teens had to say about healthy diets. They were really impressed with our presentation and ideas about how to improve healthy eating and lifestyles in our society , especially when it comes to young people.

(Continued from page 8)

The most memorable day I had at the conference was my day in downtown Washington D.C. On this day we visited a lot of the memorials, which were absolutely amazing! However the thing I liked the most was the tour of the Pentagon. We actually had the opportunity to see the different rooms in the Pentagon as well as the site where the plane crashed on 9/11 and the beautiful memorial that was constructed there.

I also thought that the Pentagon was fascinating because while you are inside taking the tour you feel like you taking a mini history lesson. However, this history lesson is unlike any other. This history lesson doesn’t compare to sitting in a classroom! It’s like history come to life! They had practically every part of American history in there from the Civil war to the present, and everything in between. I really felt privileged and honored to have the chance to have visited this amazing place. Being able to see the sites in Washington D.C., meet government officials, and tour the Pentagon has motivated me in ways I can’t describe. I truly feel that I can achieve anything and I am really excited about my future. I gained knowledge about healthy eating and living and learned how to facilitate a group meeting, as well as presenting information in a well organized manner. I will never forget this amazing experience and hope other military teens take advantage of this great opportunity!

Operation Purple Camp Camp Bob, Hendersonville, NC Camp Dates: Sunday, July 08, 2012 - Friday, July 13, 2012 Ages: 7-17 years old Camp Bob is an outreach program of Kanuga Conferences, a 1,400-acre camp and conference center affiliated with the Episcopal Church and open to all. Campers will stay in cabins with solar thermal hot water systems and enjoy traditional camp activities including hiking, swimming, rock climbing, canoeing, archery and arts and crafts. Camp Bob has hosted Operation Purple camps since 2008.

Register today for 2012 Operation Purple Camp at www.militaryfamily.org/our-programs/operation-purple/

NCNG Teen Retreat

Where Military Teens make it happen Coming this Summer Check NCNG Family Programs Facebook for our upcoming Teen Retreat

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS: ACROSS THE STATE

family fun

Summertime is meant for fun. North Carolina is buzzing with plenty to do this summer. Enjoy your Family & Have Some Fun.

Family Retreats

6.1.12 Movies in the Park North Mecklenburg Park, Huntersville, NC Park opens at 6 pm; Movie starts around 9 pm Cost: Free; 704.766.2220. www.moviesintheparkhuntersville.com 6.1.12—6.3.12 Sesame Street Live PNC Arena, Raleigh, NC Cost: $12-$50 www.thepncarena.com/events/detail/sesamestreet-live-2012 6.1.12—6.3.12 Music/Storytelling Festival Ocracoke, NC—School Road This free festival features musicians, storytellers, artisans, and the culture of Ocracoke Island and Eastern Carolina. 252.928.3411 6.2.12 Abundant Life Spring Family Fun Fest 1518 Gum Branch Road, Jacksonville, NC Join us from 11am to 8pm for Karaoke, Dunking Booth, Fun, Games, Crafts, Food, Pony Rides and More! 910.320.6710 6.14.12 Juneteenth Unity Service Jacksonville, North Carolina - 100 Recreation Lane To be held at 7:00pm the Unity in the Community Service will feature great preaching, singing, and fellowshipping! 910.545.9488 6.14.12 Old Mill Spring Craft Festival 3082 U.S. 441, Whittier, North Carolina Southeast Native American Artists & Appalachian Crafters gather to demonstrate and sell hand crafted works. Free Admission. 828.497.6536

June 22-24, 2012—Myrtle Beach, SC August 10-12, 2012—Mountains 6.16.12 Juneteenth Festival 100 Recreation Lane, Jacksonville, NC Featuring Live Entertainment, Food, Vendors, Face Painting, Clowns, and much more! 910.545.9488 6.16.12 NC Juneteenth Celebration CCB Plaza - Corcoran St., Durham, NC Multi-cultural celebration with entertainment, food, vendors, exhibitors, kids zone, health fair, car/bike show. 866.630.3796 6.20-21.12 Under the Oaks Arts Festival 1100 Club Road, Currituck Heritage Park, Corolla, NC - 11th annual Outdoor art show with over 100 quality artists. Variety of media showcasing artist's own work. 252.453.9040 6.23.12 Charlotte Bayou Festival 300 Hawthorne Lane, Charlotte, NC Food, drinks, games, arts and crafts, kids zone and eating competitions. 704.224.3270 JUNE 2012

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Anheuser-Busch proudly salutes the men and women of our Armed Forces and their Families. Throughout 2012, members of the military and as many as three direct dependents may enter SeaWorld, Busch Gardens or Sesame Place parks with a single-day complimentary admission.

Please visit www.herosalute.com for details.

Upcoming SRPs June 1 112th Finance, JFHQ Raleigh

Step Up For Soldiers Seventh Annual Children's Fishing Tournament

June 2-5 HHB 1/113th & 30th HBCT Fayetteville Armory, 449 E. Mountain Drive June 12 382nd PAD Location: TBA June 15-17 2/130 AV Fayetteville Armory, 449 E. Mountain Drive June 28 1131/1132 EN WD Location: TBA Yellow Ribbon 30/60 HHD 130th FIN BN

Step Up For Soldiers will hold it’s seventh annual children’s fishing tournament on June 9, 2012 at the Kure Beach fishing pier in Kure Beach, North Carolina. The tournament will begin at 7:00 and run until Noon. As in past years everything is free. Fishing equipment, bait, breakfast, lunch, snacks, prizes and gifts are all provided by Step Up and their sponsors.

There will be music, VIP’s, military display’s, clowns and many more treats as well. This tournament is open to children of active duty, reserves, and veterans of all five branches of the military.

To register go to Registration. You can also contact Jim Verdon, event coordinator, at 570971-0553. This event is always a great time for children and parents alike so get registered and come out to catch some fish.

June 15, 2012 8 a.m.—4 p.m.

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Service Members, Families Get Free Pass to National Parks Service members and their families will be able to enter all of America’s national parks free of charge for a year. The America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreation Lands Annual Pass, which normally costs $80, became available to service members and their dependents on Armed Forces Day, May 19.

Military personnel can get the passes at any national park or wildlife refuge that charges an entrance fee by showing their military ID. Family members also will be able to obtain their own pass, even if the service member is deployed or if they are traveling separately.

The pass allows the holder and passengers in a single private vehicle access to some 2,000 sites that charge per vehicle. At sites where entrance fees are charged per person, it covers the pass owner and three adults age 16 and older.

Military personnel can get the passes at any national park or wildlife refuge that charges an entrance fee by showing their military ID. Family members also will be able to obtain their own pass, even if the service member is deployed or if they are traveling separately.

The pass will be accepted at National Park Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Reclamation, Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest Service, and U.S. Army Corps sites that charge entrance or standard amenity fees.

The free pass will be made available for activated members of the National Guard and Reserves. It is not available for military veterans or retirees, who have other opportunities for free or reduced admission, such as the National Park Service’s “Access Pass” or a seniors pass for those 62 and older.

The free pass initiative is part of the “Joining Forces” campaign. "Our nation owes a debt of gratitude to our servicemen and women who make great sacrifices to protect our country and preserve our freedom," Dr. Biden said in a White House statement. "In recognition of their service, we are so pleased to be putting out a welcome mat for our military families at America's most beautiful and storied sites."

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Nothin’ Sweeter than the Carolinas For more NC Festivals, visit http://www.ncfestivals.com/events/ 27th Annual Carolina Beach Music Festival Starts: 6/2/2012 Ends: 6/2/2012 City: Carolina Beach, NC Produced by: Pleasure Island Seafood Blues & Jazz Festival Phone: 910-458-8434 Email: greg@pleasureislandnc.org Website: http://www.pleasureislandnc.org/carolina-beach-musicfestival/ For one of the longest running beach music festivals in the United States, you'll want to attend the historic 27th Annual Carolina Beach Music Festival held on the first Saturday in June each year in Carolina Beach. Enjoy a full day of live entertainment with the hottest beach music bands in the South.

BB&T Beach Music In the Park Starts: 6/7/2012 Ends: 6/7/2012 City: Greensboro, NC Produced by: Children's Home Society of NC Phone: 336-369-3819 Email: cdavis@chsnc.org Website: http://www.chsnc.org/beach-music.html Thursday Evenings, 5:30 - 8:30 PM Kathleen Price Bryan Park (Festival Park) Located on Davie Street between the YWCA and the Cultural Arts Center Performing: June 7 - The Craig Woolard Band Washington Summer Festival Starts: 6/8/2012 Ends: 6/9/2012 City: Washington, NC Produced by: Washington Summer Festival Phone: 252-946-9168 Email: rmckeithan@wbcchamber.com Website: http://www.wbcchamber.com/eventswashingtonsummerfestival.htm Annual summer festival on the beautiful Pamlico River in Downtown Washington features music, arts & crafts, children's entertainment, food and amusement rides! Enjoy a fun weekend with your family!

North Carolina Blueberry Festival Starts: 6/16/2012 Ends: 6/16/2012 City: Burgaw, NC Produced by: N.C. Blueberry Festival Phone: 910-259-9817 Email: beachouse@hughes.net Website: http://www.ncblueberryfestival.com/ The Blueberry Festival celebrates the historical, economic, and cultural significance of blueberries in the southeastern region of our state.

Here it is a special June holiday for all you sweet tea drinkers from the south.

The 10th is national ice tea day which started on a hot summer day at the 1904 St Louis world fair when tea plantation owner Richard Blechynden poured his hot tea samples over ice creating an immediate hit.

Smooth Sweet Tea Recipe Yield 2 quarts

Ingredients  1 pinch baking soda (removes any bitterness in tea)

  

2 cups boiling water 6 tea bags 3/4 cup white sugar (adjust to

taste)

6 cups cool water Directions Sprinkle a pinch of baking soda into a 64ounce, heat-proof, glass pitcher. Pour in boiling water, and add tea bags.

Cover, and allow steeping for 15 minutes.

Remove tea bags, and discard; stir in sugar until dissolved. Pour in cool water, then refrigerate until cold.

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TAKE 5 SUMMER SAFETY CHECKLIST Avoid distracted driving  

To save your behind, watch what’s ahead.

Alcohol and driving don’t mix, they are the recipe for a deadly cocktail

It’s Getting Hot!!!

Heat Injury Signs and Treatments

Home is where safety starts  

Keep a fire extinguisher in key locations Keep emergency numbers and contacts readily available for yourself and latchkey kids.

Barbeques, Picnics and Trips    



Never leave a hot grill unattended.

Keep ready-to-eat-foods away from raw foods Use Sunscreen and stay hydrated.

Don’t not drive while tired– 20% of all traffic fatalities are caused by drowsy drivers.

Make sure you get a good nights rest before long trips and stop every 100 miles 2 hours for a break.

Be aware of the risks for posting on social network sites your vacation plans.

Water Fun  





Read and Obey all rules and posted signs Be aware of the dangerous “too”-too tired, too cold, too far from safety, too much sun, too much strenuous activity.

Never dive into lakes or rivers– hidden dangers may lurk underneath the surface Alcohol and water do not mix

Heat cramps. Symptoms: spasms in the arms, legs or stomach.

Treatment: sip water, massage cramping areas and replace lost salt through food. Never take salt tablets unless directed by a physician.

Heat exhaustion. Symptoms: headaches, paleness, clammy skin, excessive sweating, difficulty breathing, loss of appetite, nausea and exhaustion. Treatment: sip water, lie in a shaded area and rest, and loosen or remove clothing.

Heat stroke. Symptoms: headache, dizziness, delirium, nausea, vomiting and body temperature of 106 F or higher. Treatment: Heat stroke is a medical emergency and can be fatal. Immediately call 911 and follow the dispatcher’s instructions for treatment you can perform before help arrives. Reducing body temperature is paramount in rescue efforts, and the most effective cooling strategy entails removing the victim’s clothing and immersing him or her in cool or iced water while massaging the skin (ice sheets or ice packs are acceptable if immersion isn’t possible). Anyone suspected to be suffering from heat stroke should be transported to a hospital immediately, preferably by trained medical professionals such as paramedics.

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It’s All About the Dollar Bills Money Management in 2012 Years ago there was a comedy skit where someone left a dollar at home while out of town and when they returned there were more dollars. As delusional as this may seem, this is the basic theory of what should happen with your investments, retirement accounts or other means used for “making your money work for you”.

Just as investment pioneers before the financial crisis, people applied basic money management. They saved, lived within their means, paid down high interest loans and learned the game of compound interest. So let’s start with saving and go straight to compound interest.

You can save as much or as little. The amount varies for what is best for you. But where you save it or how you save it makes a big difference. Years ago one way of saving might have been better than what is the best method to use today, as your personal situations change, so do situations in the economy. The important thing is to review your financial plan on a regular basis , whether it be just you or with our Military Family Financial Consultant.

The ever popular question is would you like to have one million dollars or a penny which doubles everyday after receipt for 30 days. If you choose one million dollars you would be missing out on $4,368,709.12. That is the power of compound interest. So let’s look at $1,000 at 15% APR, compounded monthly for one year. You would have to pay $95 a month to pay the credit card off in one year and you end up paying $79 for borrowing that $1,000. But what if you borrowed $1,000 at 15% APR, compounded monthly and it takes you three years to pay it off at a monthly payment of $35. You would end up paying $245 in addition to the $1,000 you borrowed three years ago. Now if you jut made the minimum payment of $22.50, it would take you almost 9 years to payoff your credit card with an additional cost of $730. The least amount you pay the more you give to your credit card company.

So how can you stop giving your money away? Our Military Family Financial Consultant can give you a few tricks to help you keep more of your money and beat compound interest, like paying more than just the minimum payment on high interest loans. This is just one common financial advise. Money management is a dynamic solution for various situations.

Not all answers will be the same, but the desired end result is. To leave your money see more when you “visit” it in the future. Contact David Porter, AFC at

(704) 280-9555/ncngpfc@gmail.com to renew or start your money management plan today.

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Program Offers Paid Training for Unemployed Veterans

By Karen Parrish American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, May 15, 2012 - Unemployed veterans ages 35 to 60 can apply for up to 12 months of paid training through a new program sponsored by the Departments of Labor and Veterans Affairs.

VA officials said the population the Veterans Retraining Assistance Program will serve is particularly in need. Of about 900,000 U.S. veterans who are unemployed, nearly two-thirds are between 35 and 60, according to the Labor Department.

The program, which began today, provides 12 months of training assistance equal to the monthly full-time payment rate under the Montgomery GI Bill-Active Duty program, which currently pays $1,473 per month.

such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill or Montgomery GI Bill; -- Not receive VA compensation for being unemployable; -- Not be enrolled in a federal or state job training program; and -- Pursue a program that leads to employment in one of 210 occupations the Labor Department designates as high-demand.

The list of occupations, available on the VA website, includes jobs in construction, machine operation, transportation, preschool education, health care and many other fields.

The program will fund up to 45,000 participants between July 1 and Sept. 30, and an additional 54,000 participants from Oct. 1, 2012 through March 31, 2014. Labor officials said the department will offer employment assistance to every veteran who completes the program.

The retraining program is funded under the VOW to Hire Heroes Act of 2011. The law expanded education and training for veterans, strengthened the Transition Assistance Program for service members returning to civilian life, and provides tax credits for employers who hire unemployed or disabled veterans.

Participants must be enrolled in a community college or techEligible veterans may call 800-827-1000 to learn more about nical school program approved for VA benefits. The program the program, or visit the websites listed below. must lead to an associate degree, non-college degree or certificate.

Related Sites: Veterans Retraining Assistance Program To qualify, a veteran also must: http://gibill.va.gov/benefits/other_programs/vrap.html -- Be unemployed on the day of application; -- Have a discharge that is not dishonorable; -- Not be eligible for any other VA education benefit program,

Veterans On-Line Application https://www.ebenefits.va.gov/ebenefits-portal/ ebenefits.portal

EMPLOYMENT ASSISTANCE David Ponder, Employment Specialist (919) 485-9567 david.ponder@us.army.mil Charlotte Career Fair Monday, June 4, 2012 / 11 a.m.—2 –p.m.

Renaissance Charlotte Suites Hotel 2800 Coliseum Centre Drive Charlotte, NC 28217 Raleigh Career Fair Monday, June 4, 2012 / 11 a.m.– 2p.m.

Radisson Hotel Research Triangle Park 150 Park Drive Research Triangle Park, NC 27709 Get a list of companies before the career fairs.

REGISTER AT MILITARY.NATIONALCAREERFAIRS.COM

Single Soldier Retreats Avoid Dating A “Jerk or Jerkette”

Learn how to find the right mate for you.

July 20-22: Myrtle Beach, SC August 17-19: Beach Registration Forms online at www.nc.ngb.army.mil/SS/FP/Pages/ SB.aspx . For questions or concerns, please contact Ms. Wendi Bell at (800) 621-4136 ext. 46078 at or wendi.bell@us.army.mil.

Dates and Locations are Subject to Change.

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1452nd Transportation Company Pre-Demobilization (Reunion/ Homecoming) is Highly Recommended for Family Members 15-16 June 2012

Pre-Demobilization Event 15-16 June 2012

LOCATION: Koury Convention Center 3121 High Point Road Greensboro, NC 27407 REPORT TIME: Friday, 15 June A room will be provided on Friday night; Briefings Begin at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday (Child care provided) Pre-Demobilization Brief (Reunion /Homecoming) Time to get together as a Family Unit to support and discuss the challenges and stressors associated with deployment. As we gather in a casual atmosphere to celebrate the milestone in the deployment cycle, representatives will supply information specifically to Spouses, children, Family Members, and /or employers of deployed Service Members. This step is very important to prepare yourself and your Family for your Soldier’s homecoming. Answers to your questions will be addressed. This special Briefing will cover a variety of situations dealing with the return of your loved one.

The Secretary of Defense initiated the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program to provide information, services, referral, and proactive outreach programs to Soldiers of the Army Reserve and their Families through all phases of the deployment cycle.

The goal of the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program is to prepare Soldiers and Families for mobilization, sustain Families during mobilization, and reintegrate Soldiers with their Families, communities, and employers upon redeployment or REFRAD.

Please call or email to reserve your spot today, the deadline is June 8, 2012.

Nancy Davis 828-437-0746 or e-mail: nancy.davis3@us.army.mil; or Lynn White 704-788-4554 or email: Lynn.white2@us.army.mil

Bringing Families closer Near and Far. Join today at www.familiesnearandfar.org JUNE 2012

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FAMILY READINESS GROUPS | Volunteer Spotlight

CALIBER TECHNOLOGIES: BEYOND THE YELLOW RIBBON Jedidiah Taylor and Sissy Lee Jedidiah Taylor, CEO of Caliber Technologies, launched the company’s efforts for Military Families late last year. The team at Caliber Technologies are dedicated to ensure that support to our community reaches military families beyond deployment, but also in programs like Kids on Guard.

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Caliber Technologies, a leader in the imaging supplies industry, has distinguished itself in becoming a notable example of social responsibility. Caliber Technologies regularly partners with non-profit corporations that help support and give aid to our military and their families.

Caliber Technologies operated their first Toys for Troops toy drive in December 2011. The company had collected enough toys to donate to both Ft. Bragg’s military families and for the children in the Kids on Guard program run by the National Guard of NC.

After this first introduction to the Kids on Guard program, Caliber Technologies became involved and has since donated supplies for the Hero backpacks and Photos Courtesy of Caliber Technologies. volunteered personal time like employee, Sissy Lee. Involvement goes beyond donations and the entire staff takes pride in helping the families of our Nation’s Troops.

JOINING FORCES NORTH CAROLINA MILITARY VETERAN PARTNERSHIP (NCMVP) NCMVP IS A VOLUNTARY MILITARY/COMMUNITY COOPERATIVE PARTNERSHIP ORGANIZED TO ALLOW SERVICE PROVIDERS TO ENGAGE IN MULTI-SERVICE NETWORKING TO HELP CONNECT SERVICEMEMBERS AND FAMILIES TO LOCAL MILITARY AND/OR COMMUNITY RESOURCES. BE A PART OF THE FORCE, CONTACT A FAC NEAR YOU TO BEGIN THE JOURNEY. JUNE 2012

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FAMILY READINESS GROUPS | Judy Richardson, Senior FRSA 142 Broadhurst Road Jacksonville, NC 28540-3545 judy.r.richardson@us.army.mil (910) 347-4352 Ext. 5 (800) 621-4136 Ext. 11346

FAMILY READINESS SUPPORT ASSISTANTS CHARLOTTE Nikkie Newsome nikkie.newsome@us.army.mil (704) 344-2352 Ext. 14548

CLINTON Sarah Strickland sarah.r.strickland@us.army.mil (910) 592-2100 Ext. 14735

GREENSBORO Gloria Fields gloria.d.fields@us.army.mil (336) 691-7700 Ext. 15620

GOLDSBORO Greg Smith gregory.paul.smith@us.army.mil (919) 731-2021 Ext. 15423

JACKSONVILLE Judy Richardson judy.r.richardson@us.army.mil (910) 347-4352 Ext. 5

MORRISVILLE Pamela Hughes phughes1@nc.rr.com (919) 804-5300 Ext. 16313

OXFORD Norman Dean norman.dean@us.army.mil (919) 693-3651 Ext. 27

BE PREPARED! These two words are the whole premise behind today’s Family Readiness Groups by Building Stronger, Self-Reliant Military Families.

Sir Robert Baden-Powell coined this motto for the Boy Scouts more than 100 years ago, but what did he mean by it? According to Sir Baden- Powell in Scouting for Boys ―you are always in a state of readiness in mind and body...having thought out beforehand any accident or situation that might occur, so that you know the right thing to do at the right moment...Similarly in the first hand-book for Girl Guides, he explains ―...you have to be prepared at any moment to face difficulties...by knowing what to do and how to do it.

The NC National Guard does not send its Service Members into any situation without first training and preparing them to do their duty. But it is not just the Service Member who serves. It is the whole family and we need to train and prepare our families in the same way the NCNG prepares and trains its Service Members. One way this is completed is by the NC National Guard’s Family Readiness Groups through the State Family Program Staff’s training.

Family Readiness Group Leaders and other Key Appointed positions have been Training Up to be prepared to assist their Commanders with Family communications, maintaining FRG Communications with Families in the areas of phone trees, e-mail campaigns, and newsletters; managing FRG activities; and knowing the resources in their areas that can be shared with their Soldiers and Families!

If you are not ready today, you will be even less so tomorrow. –Ovid

Pictured left to right: Norman Dean, FRSA-Troop Command; Alice Dean, State Child & Youth Coordinator; Melissa Howard, Volunteer for 113th SUS BDE; Sandra Tanner, FRG Leader-113th SUS BDE; DeAnna Church, Co-Leader-113th SUS BDE; Darby Sadler, Key Caller-505th ENG BN; Anbre Dalton, Key Caller-505th ENG BN; Nicole Campbell, FRG Leader-CO C, 230th BSB; Julie Peters, Co-Leader-1131st ENG DET & 1132nd ENG DET; Hasting Yates, Co-Leader, DET 2, 882nd ENG CO; Sarah Clark, FRG Leader, DET 2, 882nd ENG CO; Patsy Bowers, FRG Leader, 440th Army Band; Jerry Bowers, MPOC, 440th Army Band; Sandy Lamb, FRG Leader, 1131st ENG DET & 1132nd ENG DET; Judy Richardson, Senior FRSA; Gloria Fields, FRSA-113th SUS BDE and Katy Jones, Family Assistant Center Coordinator

To all of those who attended the recent Regional Volunteer Trainings...Thank you. We appreciate your hard work and dedication to helping your fellow Military Families.

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CHILD & YOUTH PROGRAM | Fun Facts & More NCNG CHILD & YOUTH PROGRAM STAFF Alice Dean Lead Child & Youth Coordinator (919) 520-9548 alice.dean@us.army.mil

Kristi Wagner Youth Coordinator 1-800-621-4136 ext. 8851 kristi.wagner@us.army.mil

Millstone 4-H Camp Camp Dates: July 15 - 20, 2012 July 22 - 27, 2012 July 29 - August 3, 2012 1296 Mallard Drive Ellerbe, NC, 28338-9043 How to apply to Camp Corral Camp Corral is free of cost* to children of wounded or disabled military families ages 8-15.

To apply, please visit goldencorral.com/campcorral or call 1-855-605-1267 for more information. *Parents are responsible for cost of transportation to and from camp.

Did You Know…June June is full of may days to celebrate some more well know than others, here are just a few: 6 June 1944 is a day to remember “D Day” as it is commonly referred to now was the largest amphibious assault in history landing 156,000 allied troops 73,000 of them American on the beaches at Normandy.

Tackle the beaches this June and kick off summer during National Fishing Week. Check out these links to find special military fishing days www.militaryappreciationday.org or www.stepupforsoldier.org.

As strong as our military force the flag that represents all they do is honored this June. June 14th is our Nation’s Flag Day. Did you know if you study the flag your called a Vexillologist! As with our military there are customs, courtesies and traditions for the proper handling of our Nation’s flag. You can check with your local VFW, American Legion or Boy Scouts for official flag retirement ceremonies in your area.

Don’t forget to thank your father,; Fathers Day this year is on the 17th . The first one was celebrated in 1910 in Spokane, WA.

Military Teen Adventure Camps 2012-2013 Nearly 1600 military teens (14-18 years old) will have an opportunity to participate (at little to no cost) in adventure camps scheduled through March 2013. These high energy, high adventure, and high experience camps are planned across the United States from Alaska to Maine and from Colorado to Georgia as well as states in between.

Each camp offers a unique outdoor experience that will allow a teen to build leadership, self-confidence, and teamwork skills while participating in activities like backpacking, river rafting, canoeing, wilderness survival, rocketry, rock climbing, GPS use, mountain biking, first aid, winter camping, dog sledding, ropes courses, camp cooking, archery, and other camp activities. Camps for youth with special needs (mental, physical, and emotional) are also planned in California, Ohio, and New Hampshire.

For military youth already in the Pacific Rim, two camp dates are available in Hawaii.

Information may be found at the following URL: https://www.extension.purdue.edu/Adventure_camps/

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FAMILY ASSISTANCE CENTERS 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) 274-7209 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. 14547 Fayetteville Unit Family Contact Center (UFCC) 3555 Owen Drive, 28306 Fax: n/a Amy Wallace, FAC Specialist amy.wallace3@us.army.mil (910) 321-1001 Ext. 14920 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) 691-7700 Ext. 15649 Sandy Harrison, FAC Specialist sandy.harrison1@us.army.mil (336) 691-7700 Ext 15651 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 Center Dr., Suite 109, 28081 Fax: (704) 788-0550 Lynn White, FAC Specialist lynn.white2@us.army.mil (704) 788-4554

Call a Military Family Life Consultant Today John Alleman Adult & Family Specialist (919) 745-9635

Betty Steelman Child & Family Specialist (919) 665-9178

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 Road, 28645 Fax: (828) 757-4519 Frances Johnson, FAC Specialist frances.johnson3@us.army.mil (828) 757-4365 Ext. 4 line 1 Morganton Unit Family Contact Center (UFCC) 411 Kirksey Drive, 28655 Nancy Davis, FAC Network Coordinator Fax: (828) 437-2068 nancy.davis3@us.army.mil (828) 437-0746 Line 2 Raleigh Military Family Resource Center (MFRC) 130 Penmarc Drive 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 Road, 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 Road, PO Box 1317, 28387 Fax: (910) 692-3659 David Butler, FAC Specialist david.earl.butler@us.army.mil (910) 692-8747 Ext. 6 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 JUNE 2012

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s n e e T y r a n I t i l g n i Mi h g g a u Eng Thro e y c i g v o r l e o S n h c Te NC Operation Military Kids (OMK) Program is pleased to announce M.T.E.S.T (Military Teens Engaging in Service through Technology) a Speak Out for Military Kids (SOMK) weekend retreat, June 21-24, 2012 !!!

The weekend will involve photography, writing skills, public speaking skills, low ropes course, teambuilding, camp fires(with S'mores), swimming and much more!

You will meet teens from across North Carolina and will experience a weekend of fun and hands-on activities you can use back home. Participants will explore Swannanoa 4-H Center in Black Mountain, NC as part of their weekend.

M.T.E.S.T is designed for teens ages 13-18.

Registration Forms can be found online, under the announcements s section at : www.nc.ngb.army.mil/SS/FP/Pages/default.aspx If there are any questions, please contact Scott Enroughty, Extension Assistant/Military Program. Office 919 515-8500 or scott_enroughty@ncsu.edu

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