Weekly Devotional from Family Programs Chaplain

By His Grace”, a devotional from Chaplain Kevin Williams, Family Programs Office; FT. Dix, NJ
April 29, 2005

Background Passage: Matthew 19:13-15

Focus Passage: Matthew 19:14

Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”

To most of us, our children are of great value. We want the best for our children to the extent there is not anything we will not do for their welfare. For example, when we anticipate moving our household, what is one of the top considerations (other than the mortgage payment)? If we have pre-school age children, our focus is locating and securing adequate child-care. Who will watch the children? Will they care for our children as we would? If we have school-age children, it is the state of the school system. We investigate the district’s state ranking, its faculty, and its curriculum. How many students go on to college from this system? Will my child succeed here?

Once we have achieved comfort with this issue, what do we do next? We look into activities that will develop their potential. Whether the activity is musical, athletic, or artistic, we shape our lives in order for our children to reap the benefit. I am sure we all have stories of our calendars having more child-related activities than adult-related activities. We do not need to mention the miles we put on our vehicles shuttling across creation from one activity to the next. In the final analysis (beyond the exhaustion), we do these things because we love our children.

Even if we give our children all of the best things, nothing can replace what they get from us as their parents. We need to be the best we can be. They need us to be a ready resource of unconditional love and direction. We need to be in a position to speak into their lives the words that can keep them on the right path and out of harm’s way. When they see us, our children need to know they have a shoulder to cry on and arms that will embrace/shelter them from some of the storms of life.

This means we have a responsibility to take the time to at least be aware of our issues as adults. As I heard someone say, “You will never fix what you will not face.” There are many avenues to help all of us work out our issues (we all have at least one issue). My hope is we are seeking an avenue to address and resolve our issues. For those of us whose spouse has returned or will be returning from a deployment, the Family Programs Office has an avenue for you. One of the ways we can work on our relationships is through a Marriage Enrichment Retreat. We conducted our first retreat last weekend. The surveys say the couples had a good time. No one had to stand up in front of the group and share anything about their marriage. Through the Prevention and Relationship Enhancement Program (PREP), the information presented is intended to empower couples to face issues and work together constructively to bring resolution. We spoke, we laughed, and we shared. Above all, we walked away better prepared to take our marriages to the next level. If our children can see us function in a healthy manner, one weekend out of our life could impact generations yet unseen.

If your soldier is not returning until 2006, do not worry. More events are coming in 2006. You and your soldier will be able to participate. Attached is the information you need to join us in 2005. Take a weekend (it is free!). Make an investment in your marriage and your family. See you there.

My email is Kevin.williams@nj.ngb.army.mil. My office is 609-562-0636. My cell phone number 609-847-1477. May our Lord and Savior bless you to know His presence today and everyday.

Thank You Party in Trenton

To all, this is a final request for any families interested in attending a “Thank You” party being put together for deployed Guard families by:

May 15th, 12:30 – 5:00 pm in the church hall.

Sacred Heart Church
Confirmation Class
Broad Street
Trenton, NJ

They are planning on food, games and entertainment for the kids.

I have had a poor response back, and I would ask again, to ensure all have had the opportunity to reply.
I need a final attempt to getting the word out and final count not later than this Friday morning. This is another community effort to show their appreciation for what our families have endured and what our soldiers endure. Thank you for all that you do.

Freedom stands because Heroes serve.

Jane E. Hackbarth
MSG, USA Retired
Lawrenceville Family Assistance Center
"Where Families Come First"
609-671-6681
Toll Free: 866-834-2631
FAX: 609-671-6682

Free Stuff for Troops

Websites for you or to pass on to all you know in the military....FYI
Free Stuff for Troops
http://www.operationhomelink.org/ - Free computers for spouses or parents of deployed soldier in ranks E1 - E5. http://www.prweb.com/releases/2004/2/prweb106818.htm - free mail/gifts sent to children of deployed soldiers. https://www.operationuplink.org/ - Free phonecards. http://anysoldier.com/ForSoldiersOnly.cfm - To sign up for sponsoring soldier care packages for theater. http://www.appreciateourtroops.org/forourtroops.shtml - To have commander sign up for mugs for unit troops. http://www.operationshoebox.com/ - free shoebox care package. http://www.treatthetroops.org/ - free cookies. http://bluestarmoms.org/airfare.html - lowest airfare available. http://bluestarmoms.org/care.html - free care packages. http://66.241.249.83/ - free air conditioners/heaters. http://www.heromiles.org/ - free air travel for Emergency Leave, and for the family members of injured soldiers to travel to Medical facility.
http://www.bluestarmothers.org/airlinespecials.php - Airline discounts for R & R. http://www.booksforsoldiers.com/forum/index.php - free books, DVD's, CD's. http://prayercentral.net/engage/militaryprayer/daily.php - daily prayer and scriptures. http://www.militarymoms.net/sot.html - free care packages (your family member signs up to have sent to you). http://operationmilitarypride.org/smsignup.html - free care packages. http://www.soldiersangels.org/heroes/submit_a_soldier.php - get adopted to receive stuff. https://www.treatsfortroops.com/registration/index.php - free gifts and care packages. http://www.emilitary.org/forums/index.php?s=c200230df4b511793b37d9fa7072b056&showtopic=354&pid=664&st=0&#entry664 - free bible, Christian video, and book for spouse/family members of deployed troop.
http://www.defenselink.mil/news/Nov2004/n11232004_2004112312.html - free shipping/packing materials for shipping to troops.

National Guard Child Care Assessment

Good Morning Everyone,

I hope everyone is okay and doing well. Yes, I’m still here and working; no baby yet. I am writing to inform you of a website/survey that I have received from NGB on Child Care Assessment which is being conducted across the country. Please pass this on to your families with children immediately (under 15) whether or not they are deployed. Former guard service members can also take the survey. Below is a news release from last week. I hope this is not too much trouble.

Thank you very much,
Have a good day,

This is the website:
http://www.AdvancedSurvey.com/default.asp?SurveyID=21294

National Guard Child Care Assessment by the National Guard Child and Youth Program

Child Care: A fifteen minute difference.

April 20, 2005 - Fifteen minutes. What difference does fifteen minutes make? Fifteen minutes can be the difference between keeping a high paying job and qualifying for food stamps for some families of National Guard service members who have been through deployments.

"If only the day care could have opened fifteen minutes earlier, I would not have been consistently late to work after dropping off my infant," remarked a woman who was dealing with one of the unavoidable challenges of today's Guard families.

"I cannot fit in an eight hour day at work between my commute and the day care center’s hours," said another spouse whose deployed husband used to see their three children off to day care and school in the morning. Finding affordable, quality day care that works for the family during deployment, weekend drills, and annual training has been a frustration and a stumbling block for many Guard families.

The availability of solutions can impact the family long after the service member has returned—especially when it comes to sacrificing a primary or secondary income to meet the needs of their children.

Is there help out there? Yes! The National Guard Child and Youth Program Regional Coordinators are working to help National Guard families meet their child care needs during deployments and other Guard situations.

Just let us know what YOUR needs are. Whether you have been directly impacted by deployment and childcare issues, or if you anticipate these needs in the future, we need to hear from you. Please participate in the National Guard Child and Youth Program Child Care Assessment at:

http://www.AdvancedSurvey.com/default.asp?SurveyID=21294


It takes just fifteen minutes—fifteen minutes that can make a difference.

For more information, contact NGChildANDYouthProgram@mpscrc.com

Respondents can request results of the assessment by supplying their email or postal address in Question 17. Final results of the survey will be posted on www.GuardFamily.org, and with other online and news media this summer. Results will also be distributed to the State Family Programs, Youth Coordinators and Family Assistance Centers across the county.


Amanda Balas
New Jersey Youth/Teen Coordinator
3650 Saylors Pond Road
Fort Dix, NJ 08640
Work: 609-562-0742
Fax: 609-562-0552
Toll Free: 1-888-859-0352

Support Our Troops Flea Market

FLEA MARKET

"Spring Cleaning Time"

Sign a Card to send to the troops overseas!

Saturday, May 14th

(Rain Date, May 15th)

Cherry Hill Armory

Grove Street & Park Avenue

Cherry Hill, NJ

8:00am-4:00pm

Sponsored By: Alpha Company 250th Family Readiness Group

Spaces Available: $15.00 50/50 Tickets

Good Food

Lots of good stuff!!

Call: Terri 609-314-0251 or

Debby 856-986-0460

Please come out and support our soldiers and their families.

All proceeds from the day's events go to the Alpha Company 250th FRG.

Rolling Thunder Vigil for Fallen Soldiers from New Jersey

Rolling Thunder will be hosting a Candlight Vigil for the 41 soldiers who have died in Operation Iraq Freedom from the state of New Jersey. The event will be Saturday---April 30th from 7-9 pm at Miller Air Park in Berkley Township off of Rt 530. They would like as many people as possible to attend, anything you can do to be there would be wonderful. If you need more info please call 609-971-3544 and someone from Rolling Thunder will answer any questions you have.

First Annual Sergeant Nutter Benefit Run May 14th

To all:

On behalf of OC Robinson of OCS Class 48, OCS Class 48, and many other personnel, I present the following announcement:

The first annual Sergeant Nutter Benefit Run in memory of SGT Sam Nutter (28 Jan 1966-2 Jan 2005) will be held May 14, 2005. He was a member of the New Jersey Army National Guard and served in the U.S. Navy from 1989-1997. His selfless service was a great credit to the community and to the military. He is survived by his wife Michelle Mallozzi-Nutter and 3 daughters Summer Ann, Samantha, and Sarah. He will be deeply missed by all of us.

This year’s proceeds will go to the SGT Sam Nutter’s Children Fund benefiting his three children. All ages are welcome and 45 prizes will be presented to winners in various categories. The event is our way of saluting a fallen comrade and to show our support to his family in these hard times. Please help support the family of a soldier that helped protect us all. Thank you for your support.

Date: 14 May 2005
Place: Sea Girt, NJ (National Guard Base)
Time: Sign-In 7:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Race Starts: 10:00 a.m.
Cost: $15.00 (Postmarked by April 29, 2005)
$20.00 (day of the event)

Call 1-877-213-0505 to sign-up or get details.

You can also visit our website at www.nutterrun.org

FOR DONATIONS:
Make checks payable and mail to: SGT Sam Nutter’s Children Fund
Attention: Anthony Salvani
#121, 4057 Hwy 9
Howell, NJ 07731

You can visit our website at www.nutterrun.org

Entry forms:
\\ngnj-34256-nas\public\nutter run\forms_5K sponsor form.doc
\\ngnj-34256-nas\public\nutter run\forms_5kentryform 2.doc

Please reply to Janeann.Robinson@nj.ngb.army.mil or OC Salvani for enquiries relating to this event. Thank you.

Tricare Reserve Select

ALCON,

This is critical to pass through your leadership. TRS (Tricare Reserve Select) is an option for your soldier to buy into that were activated in support of a Contingency Operation since Sep 11, 2001.

Please ensure leadership distributes this information to ALL soldiers involved and/or interested in applying. In addition, attached is the
DD Form 2895/Service Agreement the soldiers are required to fill out. FYI, they must keep a copy for their records. It is a two part form, the back consisting of instructions on how to fill it out. To enter into this Service Agreement, the soldiers must do it through the Guard-Reserve portal at the following address: https://www.dmdc.osd.mil/Guard-ReservePortal.

Coverage starting dates vary, and is explained in more detail below. Primarily, soldiers who leave Active Duty on or after 27 Apr 05 are eligible for coverage to continue the FIRST DAY AFTER their Transitional Assistance (TAMP) coverage ends.

Once the soldier purchases the benefit (TRS), they will receive a letter from TRICARE to welcome them in the program. In addition, they will also receive wallet cards with important information regarding contact numbers, etc.

As this office receives periodically updates on this program, you will all be informed in a timely manner.

Have a great day!

Respectfully,
SFC Grey

Vet Center Ice Breaker for Women

The Trenton Vet Center and Burlington County Veterans Service Office will sponsor a:

* Women Massage Therapy Icebreaker* April 22, 2005* 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm* Burlington County Human Services Building* 795 Woodlane Road, Westhampton, NJ
The massage therapy icebreaker is free and refreshments will be served.
Additional agencies will be on hand to provide information on women specific services.
A flyer advertising this event will be forward to everyone no later than Monday, April 18, 2005.
Thanks for your support to our women veterans and spouses.
Trenton Vet Center.

Free Summer Activities for Kids at the Woodbury FAC

Kids Summer Programs at the Woodbury Family Assistance Center

The Woodbury FAC will be offering a summer program of fun and sun at the Woodbury FAC again this summer. Get out of the house and come join us each morning from 9:30 to 12:30 at the center for reading, games, craft and friendship. The programs will be geared to early and elementary age children but all are welcome to attend. Lunch will not be provided but you are welcome to bring a bag lunch and stay at the center into the afternoon. This year, we are trying to plan some field trips, so if you have any ideas of places you would like to visit with your children, please let me know. This is still in the planning stages so please send your comments and ideas as soon as possible. We have requested that each FRG under the Woodbury FAC provide a $100.00 donation to cover the cost of supplies for the duration of the program. Registration will be required. The program is tentatively scheduled to begin June 20th and will run through the end of August. Keep your eyes open for more information, registration and volunteer opportunities.

Please Note: This is NOT child care and parents or guardians will be required to stay with their children during the program.

Mealey's Furniture Looking for Nominations for Free Furniture

Mealey's Furniture & Mattress extends a heartfelt Thank You to every man and woman who has served in our military. To honor them, help us select a Serviceperson in need to receive a FREE HOUSEFUL OF FURNITURE from Mealey's.

Do you know someone who is or has served Active Duty in the US Military and is now in need? Mealey's would like to thank them for their service by giving them three complete rooms of furniture.

Fill out a form at any of their three stores, or online at www.mealeysfurniture.com with their name, contact information and circumstances. Mealey's will review all nominations and will make a selection on June 30th.

Fundraiser Cancelled

Please note: Due to schedule conflicts among participating members, the fundraiser planned for Saturday, April 23, 2005 at the Woodbury FAC is cancelld until further notice. Once we can reschedule, I will pass along the information to those who wish to participate.

Tax Information for Members of the U.S. Armed Services

Tax Information for Members of the U.S. Armed Forces

The tax laws provide some special benefits for active members of the U.S. Armed Forces, including those serving in combat zones.
For federal tax purposes, the U.S. Armed Forces includes officers and enlisted personnel in all regular and reserve units controlled by the Secretaries of Defense, the Army, Navy and Air Force. The Coast Guard is also included, but not the U.S. Merchant Marine or the American Red Cross. However, these and other support personnel may qualify for certain tax deadline extensions because of their service in a combat zone.
Questions & Answers on Combat Zone Tax Provisions — Military Pay Exclusions, Deadline Extensions and Miscellaneous Provisions for Qualifying Taxpayers; Employers.
A Combat Zone E-mail Address for members of the Armed Forces or their families worldwide to alert the IRS that they are serving in a combat zone.
Publication 3, Armed Forces' Tax Guide, addresses a wide range of issues that may affect members of the military:
Online — browse the publication to find specific information;
Portable Document Format (PDF) — download a copy to read later or print select pages;
Hardcopy — order a paper copy by calling 1-800-829-3676.
Other Items:
Military Family Tax Relief Act of 2003 — Tax breaks related to military service, including two provisions that may require amended returns
IR-2003-132 — IRS Helps Military Personnel Get New Law's Tax Breaks
Tax Tip 2004-40 — New Tax Breaks for Military Personnel and Their Families
Tax Tip 2004-39 — Reservists, New Enlistees May Get Deferral for Back Taxes.
IR-2003-63 — New Tax Scam Targets Families of Armed Forces Members
Notice 2003-21 — Tax Relief for Those Involved in Operation Iraqi Freedom.
IR-2003-43 — Tax Assistance for Military Families; IRS.gov Page for Armed Forces
Fact Sheet 2003-11 — Information for Taxpayers Serving in the Armed Forces
News Release IR-2002-18 — Tax Relief for Troops in the Afghanistan Combat Zone.
Notice 2002-17 — Tax Relief for Those Involved in Operation Enduring Freedom.

Free Summer Camp for Kids of Deployed Servicemembers

KIDS OF DEPLOYED SERVICEMEMBERS ELIGIBLE FOR A FREE SUMMER CAMP EXPERIENCE
Nationwide Registration for Operation Purple Summer Camps Begins April 15
ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 7 - The National Military Family Association (NMFA) and Sears, Roebuck and Co. today announced the sites for the 2005 Operation Purple Summer Camps. The camps provide unique experiences to more than 2,000 children whose parents are deployed with the U.S. Armed Forces. The 22 Operation Purple Camps provide children from U.S. military families with fun and memorable opportunities to learn new skills for coping with deployment-related stress. The camps are funded through the Sears American Dream Campaign, a $100 million commitment to strengthen families, homes and communities.
Operation Purple is the only summer camp program that focuses on helping kids deal with deployment-related issues and is open to children of personnel from all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces ("purple" is a military term representing inclusion of all branches). Applications for the camps will be available April 15 through May 15 on the NMFA web site at http://www.nmfa.org/. Sears, Roebuck's funding enables children to attend the camps at no charge.
NMFA developed Operation Purple camps last year in response to the need for increased support services benefiting children of men and women serving in the Armed Forces, especially those whose parents are or will be deployed. With funding from Sears, Roebuck in 2004, NMFA conducted 12 camps reaching nearly 1,000 young people. This year, the program has expanded to host more than 2,000 kids. NMFA estimates that more than 135,000 children are experiencing the absence of a parent due to a deployment to Iraq or Afghanistan. This statistic does not include children who have parents deployed elsewhere around the world.
"Operation Purple Summer Camps fulfill a critical need in the military community," says Candace Wheeler, Chief Executive Officer of NMFA. "We have been overwhelmed by the messages of support and gratitude we've received from children, parents, the Department of Defense, the National Guard Bureau and Members of Congress. We are thrilled to be able to expand the program this year."
"Sears prides itself on serving the needs of homes and families, and our affiliation with the NMFA provides advocacy programs for the families of men and women actively serving in our armed forces," said Alan J. Lacy, vice chairman and CEO of Sears Holdings Corporation. "Our support of the summer camps enables a fabulous developmental experience for thousands of children and enriches the lives of their families."
One in four American children will grow up to serve in the military or marry a servicemember, according to the Defense Manpower Data Center, making an investment in today's military kids important for positively affecting tomorrow's military community.
Operation Purple Camp DetailsThe camps, which last from five to seven days, give kids ages eight to 18 an exciting and memorable camp experience, providing tools to help them deal with the stress resulting from a parent's deployment. Each camp is joint and "purple" -encompassing all service branches, including the National Guard and Reserve -and offered free of charge to all participants.
Interested children from military families are encouraged to apply for the camp located nearest their home. More than 30 weeks of Operation Purple camps are offered in 18 states (Alaska, California, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Louisiana, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Texas and Utah), three international locations (Germany, Italy and Japan) and one unincorporated U.S. territory (Guam). A list of camp dates, sites and other information is now available on NMFA's web site. Applications will be available on April 15.
About NMFAThe National Military Family Association, a nonprofit organization, is the only national organization whose sole focus is the military family and whose goal is to influence the development and implementation of policies that will improve the lives of those family members. The association's mission is to serve the families of the seven uniformed services through education, information and advocacy. For more than 35 years its staff and volunteers, comprised mostly of military family members, have built a reputation for being the leading experts on military family issues.
About Sears, Roebuck and Co.Sears, Roebuck has a long tradition of support for the men and women of the armed forces and their families dating back to 1916. Today, for qualified Sears, Roebuck employees activated for duty through the National Guard or Reserves, the company pays the difference between the soldiers' Sears, Roebuck salary and military pay and offers extended employment benefits for up to 60 months. Since 2003, Sears, Roebuck has provided NMFA with more than $2 million to address the unique challenges faced by military families.
Sears, Roebuck and Co., a wholly owned subsidiary of Sears Holdings Corporation (NASDAQ: SHLD), is a leading broadline retailer providing merchandise and related services. Sears, Roebuck offers its wide range of home merchandise, apparel and automotive products and services through more than 2,400 Sears-branded and affiliated stores in the United States and Canada, which includes approximately 870 full-line and 1,100 specialty stores in the U.S. Sears, Roebuck also offers a variety of merchandise and services through sears.com, landsend.com, and specialty catalogs. Sears, Roebuck offers consumers leading proprietary brands including Kenmore, Craftsman, DieHard and Lands' End -among the most trusted and preferred brands in the U.S. The company is the nation's largest provider of home services, with more than 14 million service calls made annually. For more information, visit the Sears, Roebuck website at http://www.sears.com/ or the Sears Holdings Corporation website at http://www.searsholdings.com/.

FYI please read the following information. Please NOTE there is not a CAMP here in New Jersey but there are in PA and In New York that are available NMFA offers a $100.00 travel expense to families that have to travel to another state to take and pick up their child. Please read all the information below and also visit the NMFA website for a listing of Camp States and information regarding the camp and dates.

By His Grace Devotional

By His Grace”, a devotional from Chaplain Kevin Williams, Family Programs Office; FT. Dix, NJ
April 15, 2005

Background Passage: I Corinthians 13

Focus Passage: I Corinthians 13:4-7 (NIV)
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”

Marriage is peculiar institution. At the outset, hopes and expectations are sky-high. For many, the “honeymoon phase” continues for some time after returning from the honeymoon. The couple is still giving the effort to cater to each other. We get up to make breakfast, leave notes, buy roses for no reason, open doors, and call throughout the day just to say “I love you.” (Does it sound vaguely familiar?) As life would have it, challenges arise. They have a tendency to bring stress that tests the fabric of the relationship. Some couples rally against the adversity. Others draw lines in the sand and prepare for war. After enough battles, the hope they once had begins to fade. Unfortunately, the day comes when we look at our spouse and begin to wonder, “Who are you and how in the world did I get here?”

For all of us who have ever been married, we have used the word “love”. For all of us, there is probably a different meaning. Since we are human and have limited capacities, our “love” has its limits. This is seen in the fact that we start-off saying “I love you.” However, a few challenges, battles, and misunderstandings down the road, the meaningful exchange of these words becomes rare. This is also seen by the climbing rate of divorce (55-60%) which escalates with second and third marriages. Nevertheless, God, who is limitless, gives us the ultimate model for love. The Scripture above is the foundation of all relationships, especially marriage. Imagine where our marriages could be if we did not keep a running list of everything our spouses ever did to us that we thought was wrong. Where would our marriages be if we sought God’s Truth about our marital circumstances and sought to forgive each other (letting our spouses of the hook)? If nothing else, we could experience a refreshing hope that could keep our marital love alive and our family’s whole.

The New Jersey Army National Guard Family Programs Office has provided an opportunity for deployed soldiers and their spouses to reconnect. There are 7 Marriage Enrichment Retreats scheduled between April and September 2005. These events are designed to enrich all marriages. If you have a strong marriage, the material we will share will only help to make your marriage stronger. These events are at no cost to the soldier and their spouse. Come and have a great weekend. Slots are still available for the April 22-24 weekend. Attached is all the information you need to join us. Take a weekend and invest in your marriage. See you there.

During this Pentecost season, worship at your church with a mind to continue your journey with God. Know that His motive towards us is pure and His love is real. He gave His all with us in mind. My email is Kevin.williams@nj.ngb.army.mil. My office is 609-562-0636. My cell phone number 609-847-1477. May our Lord and Savior bless you to know His presence today and everyday.

Journalist Looking for Non Traditional Deployment Stories

The Woodbury FAC has been contacted by a journalist from the Courier Post who is interested in doing a series of articles on our recent deployments. She is looking for non-traditional human interest stories and is hoping to find interested families who would like to do a series of articles over the course of the deployment. She is specifically interested in women who have deployed and left their families behind or grandparents who are taking care of a deployed soldier's children. Please contact me if you are interested in speaking with her for an article.

Mother's Day Brunch Hosted by Local Politicians

Come help us support our troops………..
The Paul Allen Memorial
“Hugs for Heroes”
Mother’s Day Brunch

Hosted by

4th District Legislators
Senator Fred Madden
Assemblyman Robert Smith
Assemblyman David Mayer

Saturday April 30th
11am to 1pm
at the
Camden County College Blackwood Campus
In the Gabriel E. Danch C.I.M. Center

Bring your loved one’s email address and make a video email to send while they are deployed.

We look forward to seeing of you!
Please call (856) 232-6700 or 227-5900
For directions and to RSVP

On a personal note, a large number of people have worked very hard on putting this event together. We are trying to reach family members of ALL service branches, active duty, guard and reserves. Please pass this information to anyone you feel would be interested in attending. I am looking forward to seeing everyone at this event and would appreciate your support by attending.

Reminder and Meeting Agenda

The quarterly meeting of the Woodbury FAC will be held at 7PM Thursday, April 14, 2005 inside the FAC at the Woodbury Armory. Please bring you ideas and a snack to share with the members if possible. We will be making plans for our fundraiser on the 23rd of this month as well as Armed Forces Day in May. I will also be discussing implememting a summer programs for guard children and restarting the Deployed Soldier and Spouse Support Groups. I look forward to seeing everyone and ALL members are welcome to attend.

American Legion to Recognize Army Reserve Soldiers on Armed Forces Day

AMERICAN LEGION TO RECOGNIZE ARMY RESERVE SOLDIERS ON ARMED FORCES DAY (MAY 21)
The American Legion, an organization that has long recognized the vital role of the Army Reserve, is sponsoring a program called "Blue Star Salute" on Armed Forces Day (Saturday, May 21, 2005) in communities across the nation. The program recognizes the sacrifices and achievements of all military members who serve the nation in the Global War on Terror. Each Army Reserve Soldier in your command is eligible to receive a Blue Star Salute certificate of achievement at a public event in your community. These events are called Blue Star Salutes after the banner of the same name hung in front windows of homes across the country during previous wars to indicate a loved ones service in the armed forces. In addition to military members, many American Legion posts will also be recognizing the contributions of family members and outstanding businesses toward our national defense.
These events are open to all in the community; many will include military and civilian exhibits, booths, games, music, food and a variety of other activities. As a community event, units may participate in an official role if it is deemed appropriate by the unit commander. Examples of participation may include parades, equipment exhibits, color guard or musical support, or other activities approved by the Joint Ethics Regulation (JER) (DoD 5500.7-R)
In order to participate, you must contact your local American Legion before May 1. In some cases, Army Reserve units may have already been contacted by their local American Legion. For times and locations of your community's Blue Star Salute on May 21, contact the American Legion post nearest to you. For more information about the Blue Star Salute program or the American Legion, contact Joe March at (317) 630-1253 or jmarch@legion.org.

Welcome Home Benefit to Honor Children of Fallen Soldiers of Bravo Battery 3RD Battalion 112TH Field Artillery

WELCOME HOME
BRAVO BATTERY
3RD BATTALION
112TH FIELD ARTILLERY

WE WILL NOT FORGET OUR
FALLEN COMRADES
YOU AND A GUEST(S) ARE INVITED TO AN EVENING OF DINNER AND DANCING
HOSTED BY 1LT AND MRS. DONALD A. KENNEDY, JR.

TO WELCOME HOME
BRAVO BATTERY 3RD BATTALION 112TH FIELD ARTILLERY
DEPLOYED TO BAGHDAD, IRAQ IN SUPPORT OF OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM II
21 FEBRUARY 2004 – 2 FEBRUARY 2005
&
HONOR OUR FALLEN COMRADES
SSG CARVILL AND SPC DUFFY - KIA 04 JUNE 2004
SSG TIMOTEO AND SGT DOLTZ - KIA 05 JUNE 2004

ON FRIDAY, APRIL 29, 2005 FROM 6PM-10PM
WEST POINT OFFICERS CLUB
UNITED STATES MILITARY ACADEMY
BUILDING 603 CULLUM ROAD
WEST POINT, NEW YORK

THE DONATION WILL BE $75.00 PER PLATE AND ALL PROCEEDS ABOVE THE COST WILL BE GIVEN TO THE SCHOLARSHIP FUNDS OF THE CHILDREN OF BRAVO BATTERY’S
FALLEN SOLDIERS: GIOVANNIE TIMOTEO (AGE 3) & RYAN DUFFY (AGE 1)

THE EVENING INCLUDES OPEN BAR, HORS D’OEUVRES, CHOICE OF PRIME RIB OR PASTA ENTRÉE, DESSERT AND COFFEE OR TEA

PLEASE RSVP VIA EMAIL TO DONALD.KENNEDYJR@US.ARMY.MIL BY APRIL 10, 2005 WITH CHOICE OF ENTRÉE AND NUMBER ATTENDING

TO RESERVE YOUR SEATS PLEASE MAKE YOUR DONATION NO LATER THAN APRIL 15TH PAYABLE TO:
NATIONAL GUARD STATE FAMILY READINESS COUNCIL
C/O 1LT DONALD KENNEDY
33 CAMBRA ROAD
WALDWICK, NJ 07463

Attire: Dress Blue uniform preferred
Or Class “A” uniform

Operation Purple Summer Camp

ServiceWASHINGTON, April 7, 2005 -
Registration for "Operation Purple" summer camps for children of deployed servicemembers begins April 15 on the National Military Family Association's Web site, program officials announced today.The 22 Operation Purple camps provide summer camp experiences for more than 2,000 children whose parents are deployed in the U.S. armed forces. The camps are funded through the Sears American Dream Campaign, a $100 million commitment to strengthen families, homes and communities, officials said. The funding by Sears, Roebuck and Co. allows children to attend the camps free of charge.NMFA officials said Operation Purple is the only summer camp program that focuses on helping children deal with deployment-related issues, and is open to children of personnel from all branches of the U.S. armed forces.Applications will be available April 15 through May 15 on the NMFA Web site.NMFA developed Operation Purple camps last year in response to the need for increased support services benefiting children of men and women serving in the armed forces, especially those whose parents are or will be deployed, officials said.With funding from Sears, Roebuck in 2004, NMFA conducted 12 camps, reaching nearly 1,000 young people. This year, the program has expanded to host more than 2,000 children. NMFA officials estimate that more than 135,000 children areexperiencing the absence of a parent due to a deployment to Iraq or Afghanistan, and still others have a parent deployed elsewhere."Operation Purple Summer Camps fulfill a critical need in the military community," said Candace Wheeler, NMFA's chief executive officer. "We have been overwhelmed by the messages of support and gratitude we've received fromchildren, parents, the Department of Defense, the National Guard Bureau and members of Congress. We are thrilled to be able to expand the program this year."A senior Sears official explained why the company is involved. "Sears prides itself on serving the needs of homes and families, and our affiliation with the NMFA provides advocacy programs for the families of men and women actively serving in our armed forces," said Alan J. Lacy, vice chairman and chief executive officer of Sears Holdings Corp. "Our support of the summer camps enables a fabulous developmental experience for thousands of childrenand enriches the lives of their families."The camps, which last from five to seven days, give children ages 8 to 18 an exciting and memorable camp experience, providing tools to help them deal with the stress resulting from a parent's deployment, NMFA officials said.Program officials said interested children from military families are encouraged to apply for the camp located nearest their home. More than 30 weeks of Operation Purple camps are offered in 18 states (Alaska, California, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Louisiana, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, NorthCarolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Texas and Utah), three international locations (Germany, Italy and Japan) and in Guam. A list of camp dates, sites and other information is available on NMFA's Web site.The National Military Family Association, a nonprofit organization, focuses solely on the military family, and its stated goal is to influence the development and implementation of policies that will improve the lives of those family members. The association's mission is to serve the families of the seven uniformed services through education, information and advocacy. For more than 35 years its staff and volunteers, made up mostly of military family members, have built a reputation for being the leading experts on military family issues, NFMA officials said.Sears, Roebuck has a long tradition of support for the men and women of the armed forces and their families dating back to 1916. Today, for qualified Sears, Roebuck employees activated for duty through the National Guard orReserve, the company pays the difference between the soldiers' Sears, Roebuck salary and military pay and offers extended employment benefits for up to 60 months. Since 2003, Sears, Roebuck has provided NMFA with more than$2 million to address the unique challenges faced by military families.

Jersey Shore Invitational Support the Troops Night

Support the Troops Night
April 28th
7:00 pm

(All members of the Military receive free admission by presenting their Military ID)


The Jersey Shore Invitational Tournament (JSIT) is America’s only NCAA Regional All-Star Tournament and it will bring the Country’s top graduating senior basketball players to the Ritacco Center April 27th – 30th.

Come see Ricky Shields (Rutgers University), Josh Pace (Syracuse University) and the rest of the Northeast All-Stars take on Steve Moore (Arizona State University) and West Regional All-Star Team 7:00 pm Thursday night, April 28th. You can also see the East vs. the Mountain West at 9:00 pm.

The Colors ceremony will begin at 6:40 pm and all members of the Military receive free admission by presenting their Military ID.

The tournament will comprise of seven regional all-star teams (East, Northeast, South, Midwest, Great Plains, Mountain West, West) and an International all-star team, which will consist of international student athletes that have played in the NCAA. The JSIT will be featured on NBA TV and will conclude on April 30th with the tournament’s championship game being broadcasted on Comcast Cable (Ocean and Monmouth Counties). For more information, please visit our website, www.jsitournament.com.


The Jersey Shore Invitational Tournament
April 27-30, 2005
www.jsitournament.com

National Guard Offers Marriage Enrichment Retreat to Deployed Soldiers Returning Home

PREVENTION AND RELATIONSHIP ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM (PREP) Marriage Enrichment Workshop


The New Jersey National Guard Family Programs staff and your Chaplains have teamed up to offer you a truly out-standing program known as “PREP”. This program has proven so effective in recent years that it has been featured on 20/20, 48 Hours, Oprah, and in many articles of the printed media.

PREP offers a fresh approach. It is basic and straightforward. The workshop and the materials teach couples the skills they need to nurture a lasting love. Couples spend most of their time in special discussions or practicing skills. Key topics include expectations, commitment, fun, forgiveness, friendship, feeling understood, and sensuality.

PREP is NOT therapy, and is unlike anything to which you have been exposed. No encounter group or sharing of personal concerns, no dry psychobabble…simply thrilling insights into a more loving, growth filled relationship! PREP begins with teaching effective communication skills, and then addresses problem resolution strategies that work, how to discover the hidden issues in every relationship, and then move into forgiveness, fun, friendship and sensuality.

Our first Enrichment Workshop will be held at the Hyatt in Princeton, New Jersey. Check in at the hotel will be Friday night April 22 between 7:00 and 9:00 PM. The workshop will be held on Saturday 23 April and conclude at Noon on Sunday 24 April. Please see attached sheet for the listing of other Marriage Enrichment Workshops scheduled with the dates and locations you may choose from.

All spouses will be on ITO’s (Invitational Travel Orders) and soldiers attending will be in SUTA status for the weekend. Dress for the weekend is business casual for soldier and spouse. This weekend will be at virtually no cost to you since your hotel room and meals have been contracted at the hotel. At the conclusion of the weekend, you will complete your Travel Voucher for your reimbursement for mileage.

Attached you will find a registration form, information sheet, and workshop dates & locations. If you have any questions or need any further information please call the Family Program Office at 609-562-0668 or 609-562-0739.

Sincerely
Ralph W. Cwieka
CW4, NJARNG
Family Program Director

Dates for Marriage Enrichment Retreats

Prevention and Relationships Enhancement Program
(PREP) The Marriage Enrichment Workshop

Workshop Dates and Locations

Hyatt Regency Princeton 22-24 April 2005
102 Carnegie Center
Princeton, New Jersey 08540

Radisson Hotel 3-5 June 2005
915 Route 73
Mt Laruel, New Jersey 08054

Sheraton Edison Hotel 24-26 June 2005
Raritan Center Parkway
Edison, New Jersey 08837


Sheraton Edison Hotel 5-7 August 2005
Raritan Center Parkway
Edison, New Jersey 08837


Sheraton Edison Hotel 12-14 August 2005
Raritan Center Parkway
Edison, New Jersey 08837


Sheraton Edison Hotel 9-11 September 2005
Raritan Center Parkway
Edison, New Jersey 08837


Sheraton Edison Hotel 23-25 September 2005
Raritan Center Parkway
Edison, New Jersey 08837


Check-in for each conference will be on a Friday evening from 7-9 PM at the hotels.
Workshops will begin on the Saturday morning at 8:30AM and conclude at approximately 4:30 PM. Workshops on Sunday will begin at 8:30 AM and conclude at approximately 12 noon. The last hour at the workshop will be devoted to completion of spouses Travel Vouchers for mileage reimbursement. All meals have been contracted with the hotel at no cost to the attendees. Dinner Friday evening will be on your own.

How to Register for Marriage Enrichment Retreat

INSTRUCTIONS FOR MAKING YOUR MARRIAGE ENRICHMENT WORKSHOP
ARRANGEMENTS


PICK YOUR LOCATION AND DATES

CALL THE FAMILY PROGRAMS OFFICE MONDAY THRU FRIDAY BETWEEN THE HOURS OF 8:00AM TO 5:00 PM, TO REGISTER YOUR LOCATION AND DATE. SPACE IS LIMITED AT EACH LOCATION AND DATE. LOCATION AND DATE WILL BE ON A FIRST CALL AND REGISTER BASIS. FAMILY PROGRAM PHONE NUMBERS
609-562-0668, 609-562-0739 609-562-0742


COMPLETE THE ENCLOSED REGISTRATION FORM AND MAIL
YOU’RE FORM TO THE FAMILY PROGRAMS OFFICE. ADDRESS IS ON THE FORM.


ONCE WE RECEIVE YOUR REGISTRATION FORM WE WILL MAIL
YOUR INVITATIONAL TRAVEL ORDERS TO YOU ALONG WITH ANY OTHER INFORMATION.

6. DRESS FOR THIS WEEKEND WILL BE CASUAL BUSINESS ATTIRE.



Thank you for following the above instructions this will make the process for registration run smoothly. Looking forward to seeing you at this weekend retreat. If you have any questions at all please call me at 609-562-0668


Sincerely

Ralph W. Cwieka
CW4, NJARNG
Family Program Director

Registration Form for Marriage Enrichment Retreat

REGISTRATION FORM
New Jersey National Guard
Marriage Enrichment Retreat


SOLDIER’S NAME:______________________________________

SOLDIER’S SSN: _________-_________-___________

SPOUSE’S NAME:_______________________________________

SPOUSE’S SSN: ______-________-_________ (for ITO orders)


(Street Address)

______________________ _________ _____________
(City) (State) (Zip Code)

TELEPHONE NUMBER Daytime: ( ) _____-__________
Evening: ( ) _____-__________

Hotel Location and Date Attending: ______________________________

Email Address: ____________________________________________

Miles from Home of Record to Hotel: _____________

UNIT OF ASSIGNMENT: _______________________________________

Please return to:
NEW JERSEY ARMY NATIONAL GUARD
HEADQUARTERS STATE AREA COMMAND
ATTN: CW4 RALPH W. CWIEKA
3650 Saylors Pond Road
Fort Dix, New Jersey 08640-7600

Army Raises Enlistment Age for Guard and Reservists to 39

Army raises enlistment age for reservists to 39WASHINGTON (Reuters) -- The U.S. Army, stung by recruiting shortfalls caused by the Iraq war, has raised the maximum age for new recruits for the part-time Army Reserve and National Guard by five years to 39, officials said Monday.
The Army said the move, a three-year experiment, will add about 22 million people to the pool of those eligible to serve, from about 60 million now. Physical standards will not be relaxed for older recruits, who the Army said were valued for their maturity and patriotism.
The Pentagon has relied heavily on part-time Army Reserve and Army National Guard soldiers summoned from civilian life to maintain troop levels in Iraq and Afghanistan. Roughly 45 percent of U.S. troops currently deployed for those wars are reservists.
At home, the all-volunteer Army has labored to coax potential recruits to volunteer for the Guard and Reserve as well as for active-duty, and to persuade current soldiers to re-enlist when their volunteer commitment ends.
Maj. Elizabeth Robbins, an Army spokeswoman, said the maximum enlistment age for the regular Army will remain 34. While congressional action was not needed to raise the age for the Guard and Reserve, Robbins said, Congress must approve any change for the active-duty force.
"Raising the maximum age for non-prior service enlistment expands the recruiting pool, provides motivated individuals an opportunity to serve, and strengthens the readiness of Reserve units," the Army said in a statement.
Air Force Lt. Col. Ellen Krenke, a Pentagon spokeswoman, said it was possible after the three-year test ends in September 2008 that the Pentagon may consider an enlistment age for Army reservists even older than 39.
Recruiting goals
Recruiters say the Iraq war is making military service a harder sell, and the Army has added recruiters and financial incentives for enlistment.
The Army National Guard missed its recruiting goal for the 2004 fiscal year and trails its year-to-date 2005 targets. The Army Reserve missed January and February goals and is lagging its target for 2005. The regular Army missed its target for February and trails its annual goal.
"Obviously, this decision is being made partly in response to the personnel shortfalls caused by the war in Iraq," said defense analyst Loren Thompson of the Lexington Institute.
But he said U.S. life expectancy increased by 40 percent in the 20th century, adding, "The pressure of wartime has pushed the Army to make a change that may have been overdue anyway."
"Anecdotally, our recruiters have been telling us for years that we've had people who are otherwise qualified but over the age limit who have attempted to enlist," Robbins said. "There are physically fit, health-conscious individuals who can make a positive contribution to our national defense."

Woodbury FAC Quarterly Meeting

The quarterly meeting for the FRG's under the Woodbury FAC will be held on Thursday, April 14, 2005 at 7:00PM. Meetings are held in the FAC inside the Woodbury Armory at 658 North Evergreen Avenue in Woodbury, New Jersey. Please be sure to send a representative from your group or FRG to get all the latest information and updates. Some of the items on this meetings agends are awards, deployment information, Chinese Auction, spaghetti dinner for fall and training for the crisis team. Please contact me if you need directions or further information.

Update on Soldier in Need From Toms River

Anyone desiring to make a monetary donation to the Toms River soldier, PFC Joshua Greulich and his family who lost everything in a house fire. Please make checks payable to:

The Greulich Family Benefit Fund and mail to the following:
Shore Community Bank
ATTN: “The Greulich Family Benefit Fund”
1012 Hooper Ave
Toms River, NJ 08753

Please remember that we decided to meet at the Woodbury FAC on Saturday, April 23, 2005, in order to do a day long fundraiser for this family. Please contact me if you need additional information or would like to sign up to volunteer.

AT&T Unlimited Country (SM) International Calling Plans

Families with soldiers deployed to Germany and Italy might want to look into this AT&T Calling Plan. There are some restrictions and other fees, however it is worth the time to call the 800 number to look into the plan and see if it fits your needs. The following are the details were pulled off the Internet at www.ATT.com

NEW AT&T Unlimited Country(SM) International Call Plan*
Unlimited international phone calls to the country you call most
24 Hours A Day/7 Days A Week
Just $49.95 a month†
Low per-minute international phone call rates to other countries
Reliability and quality connections from AT&T
CALL US TODAY 1-800-235-0900.

In addition, ask an AT&T representative about their Call Advantage Plan. This is a phone line that runs through your high speed phone modem. In addition to excellent rates in Eurpoe, they have the best rates I have found for Iraq, Afghanistan and Cuba.

Dollar Days Savings Come to Commissaries

By Bonnie Powell Defense Commissary Agency

Dollar Days, a growing trend in retail stores, are coming to commissaries in April. Patrick B. Nixon, chief executive officer and acting director of the Defense Commissary Agency, said commissaries in the United States kick off the new "Dollar Days" sales event during the first two weeks of April with plans for a repeat performance the first two weeks of August. Items throughout the store will feature dollar pricing.
Commissaries in Europe and the Far East also plan to participate in Dollar Days but the time frame may not coincide with stateside stores.
"Customers might see two-for-a-dollar deals, or even unusual deals such as three items for two dollars," said Nixon. "It all depends on the items up for sale naturally, but the key is in offering multiple items for even dollar amounts." Customers should look for "Extra Savings" signs in stores that will show the way to Dollar Days savings throughout their commissary.
If the sales promotion proves popular with customers, Dollar Days could be expanded to several times per year, according to Nixon. Theme sales have proven popular with commissary customers already. Many stores hold dollar sales or sidewalk sales and DeCA currently holds two worldwide case lot sales in May and October.

National Association for Uniformed Services Looking for Bill Support

Here is a link to the National Assn for Uniformed Services. They are trying to gather support to pass Bill HR 887 which would allow immediate family members of military troops engaged in combat, free mailing while that military member is in the combat zone. This privilege would be limited to wives, children, mother, father and siblings. It's easy to make your voice heard -- just put in your zip code and they automatically bring up a letter made out to your local Congressman and email it to them from you. Pretty nifty...http://capwiz.com/naus/issues/alert/?alertid=7207041&type=CO

Frank T. Carvill Scholarship

The annual Frank T. Carvill Scholarship award will provide a child of an Army National Guard soldier who is currently deployed or has been deployed $1500 towards their college tuition. This scholarship fund was started in memory of NJ's own fallen National Guard soldier who dedicated his life towards community service and mentoring others. Deadline for submission of applications is April 30th. Please go to the website www.njfriends.org to request a copy of the application. It will be sent to you within 24 hours of receipt of your request.

National Military Family Association Outstanding Volunteer Award

Nominations Now Being Accepted for Outstanding Volunteer Award
ALEXANDRIA, VA, March 2, 2005 - The National Military Family Association is now accepting applications for the Very Important Patriot (VIP) Award. The program, now in its eleventh year, recognizes exceptional volunteers worldwide whose outstanding service contributes to improving the quality of life in their military and civilian communities.
Due to the challenges of the current pace of military operations, volunteers are playing an increasing role in providing support and stability in their communities. NMFA and the VIP Award sponsors want to recognize those volunteers whose selfless actions have made a lasting impact on their community.
Any active duty, National Guard and Reserve, or retired servicemember of the seven uniformed services, their family members, and survivors are eligible to be nominated. Nominations will only be accepted online at http://www.nmfa.org/vip beginning March 1, 2005 through April 15, 2005. Winners will be notified mid-May.
Each year NMFA presents five Very Important Patriot (VIP) Awards, five Awards of Honor, and five Awards of Merit. Winners receive a cash prize and the five VIP recipients and a companion, are flown to Washington, DC to be honored. In DC they will meet with senior leaders of their individual services, visit with their elected officials on Capitol Hill, and meet representatives from the VIP sponsor companies; The Coca-Cola Company, The Kellogg Company, The Clorox Sales Company, H.J. Heinz Company, and Tyson Foods.
For more information, instructions, and a list of eligible nominating agencies, please visit our website at http://www.nmfa.org/vip.
About NMFAThe National Military Family Association is the only national organization whose sole focus is the military family and whose goal is to influence the development and implementation of policies that will improve the lives of those family members. The Association's mission is to serve the families of the seven uniformed services through education, information and advocacy. For more than 35 years, its staff and volunteers, comprised mostly of military family members, have built a reputation for being the leading experts on military family issues.

Looking for Movie Extras

We are seeking men ages 22-29 years old, in excellent shape, and willing to have their hair buzzed very short to portray police cadets for the new Martin Scorsese film "The Departed", starring Jack Nicholson, Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, and Angelina Jolie. In order to be considered for this part you must either email me a recent picture of yourself including your age, height, weight, and contact information or come by my office on Thursday March 31st or Friday April 1st from 11am-2pm so that we can take a polaroid of you.

Martin Scorsese will be personally selecting everyone so we must have a photo of everyone interested. The film begins shooting at the end of April but as of yet, we do not have specific dates for the scenes that we will need the police cadets.



SPC Sydney Brown
Administrative Support Technician
Joint Force HQ-NJ
Human Resource Office
Fort Dix, NJ 08640
609-562-0851