February 22, 2010
Hello ISFAC Members,
Military families bear the brunt of the wars' burdens on the homefront. When parents deploy, their children soldier on without them. But they're rarely recognized for their service and sacrifice. That's why Operation Homefront created the Military Child Award -- to recognize and reward military children who set a positive example for the rest of us. The winner receives $5,000 and is flown to Washington, D.C. for a special ceremony in his or her honor. Nominations open until midnight on February 25, 2010. - www.operationhomefront.net
Per Marilyn Rohrer- Attached are frequently asked questions regarding the phase-out of Social Security Numbers on Retired and Dependent ID cards. Per Question 5, you can renew your ID card when it expires. For retirees, this will be when they turn 60 and are eligible for retired pay and TRICARE, and then again at 65, when they become eligible for TRICARE for Life. More info can be found at www.dmdc.osd.mil/smartcard
Globally recognized, reputable miljournalist and prior special forces soldier Michael Yon recently reported on the events that lead up to the death of Sgt Adam Ray in Charlie Company from the 4th Battalion 23rd Infantry of the 5/2 Stryker Brigade Combat Team from Fort Lewis, WA. Ray's family recently moved to North Dakota, where they are in a Moorhead ministry. Please read the story here- www.michaelyon-online.com/adam-ray.htm. I have been blessed to work on a daily basis with Michael Yon. Soldiers' Angels supports his mission while he seeks to tell the stories of our heroes that the media no longer covers. Sign up to receive his Dispatches at www.MichaelYon-online.com or fan him www.Facebook.com/MichaelYonFanPage. There is rarely a day that goes by without a great story coming from him. You all have more than likely seen his work, as he has Time Magazine photo of the year for 2006 with the photo of Farah and Major Mark Bieger (now LTC) (www.michaelyon-online.com/little-girl.htm).
1LT Vestal of the MAFB says, "We're working hard to lower suicide idealizations (people thinking or attempting suicide) and DUIs. The winter weather and high ops tempo are factors that can contribute to stressors on persons. The men and women of Minot Air Force Base will come together and remain good Wingmen for each other.
I encourage every member of ISFAC to become more engaged in sharing events and activities. Please send me (shellemichaels@msn.com) your copy and paste ready ONLY (see event listing for format) information by Friday of each week and I will send this out over the course of the weekend.
Have a safe week—stay warm!
Shelle Michaels, Soldiers' Angels
EVENTS/MEETINGS:
Monday, February 22, 2010 – ANXIETY- Join facilitator Renae Broden
At Lewis & Clark Elementary in Grand Forks (1100 13th Ave. S.) In the library from 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. Family Counselor Renae Broden will provide strategies for parents and caregivers to help children work through anxious moments or situations. She will demonstrate calming exercises for children, teach parents to help children identify things that may be troubling them, and share how to help children deal with new situations, bedtime fears, and other common anxiety-causing situations. This will be an interactive presentation, and audience members will be able to ask questions. TO REGISTER call (701) 787-4216 or email: pic@gfschools.org
Tuesday, February 23, 2010: Grieving Series: "What to Do About the Empty Chair?" Mary Ekstrom from Hanson-Runsvold funeral home will speak from her own experience of the death of her husband and how she dealt with this often lonely experience. 12:15-1pm Free lunch. HeartSprings is located out of Messiah Lutheran Church, 2010 N Elm St, Fgo.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010: "Writing for Expression" Jamie Parsley will facilitate playing with words to help in expressing your thoughts and feelings. 9:45-10:45am or 10:45-11:45am. HeartSprings is located out of Messiah Lutheran Church, 2010 N Elm St. Fgo. Look at our website at www.heartspringscenter.com.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010: Worship and Healing Service Led by Jamie Parsley this is a simple workship service using singing, short message, reading from scripture, Holy Communion, and prayers for healing. Christian service. All are welcome! 6:30-7:30pm Free-will offering. Located out of Messiah Lutheran Church, 2010 N Elm St., Fgo.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010- Bismarck/Mandan Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Task Force. The Military Affairs Task Force was recruited to increase awareness and support of the role of the Guard, Reserve and active-duty military in the community. Meets at the Chamber at noon. Katie Moore – (701) 223-5660 or katiem@bismarckmandan.com
Thursday, February 25, 2010- the GFAFB Winter Bash is open to all family members. For more information contact Linda DePaolo at (701) 747-6483.
Friday, February 26, 2010- 6:00 - 10:00 Minot, Sleep Inn, 2400 10th St SW RSVP by Feb 19. The FAC and the Yellow Ribbon Team invite your family to join us for a fun filled evening! Bring the kids, learn something new and enjoy good company, free food, door prizes and a night out of the house! Supper and childcare will all be provided free of charge. ITOs are also available for those families more than 50 miles from one of the events. To RSVP Toll Free 1-800-242-4940 / Suzanne 701-412-8735 / Kristina 701-219-4579
Saturday, February 27, 2010- The International Military Ball is at the Holiday Inn Riverside in Minot. Our Canadian friends and American counterparts will join together in this annual event--the premier formal occasion for the city. The last day to RSVP for the $50 ticket (each person) is Monday, Feb 22. Contact the Minot Chamber of Commerce at 701-852-6000 for more information.
Saturday, February 27, 2010 - Minot's premiere social event, the 22nd Annual International Military Ball with social beginning at 6 p.m. at the Minot Holiday Inn. The formal event will include a gourmet meal. Participants will enjoy an elegant evening of dancing, and dignitaries from both the United States and Canada will attend. Please reply by Feb. 24, 2010. For more information, please call 852-6000 or email chamber@minotchamber.org.
Sunday, February 28, 2010 - North Dakota National Guard Huff Hills Family Skiing Day Please join the NDNG Youth Program Office at Huff Hills on Sunday, February 28, 2010 from 9:30 am until 5:00 pm. If you are interested in attending, please RSVP to the Military Service Center at 701-333-4800 by February 19, 2010 at 4pm.
Monday, March 1- Valley City - High Liner Activity Center- 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.- 460 Center Ave. NE Officials will hold town hall meetings to help citizens learn more about the 2010 flood outlook, flood insurance, and flood preparation. The meetings are open to the public and will provide citizens the opportunity to hear presentations about what they can be doing now to prepare for potential flooding and to ask questions about flood insurance and preparedness.These town hall meetings are part of a series of outreach and education efforts the North Dakota Department of emergency Services and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are conducting to help residents prepare for potential spring flooding in 2010.
Tuesday, March 2- Devils Lake- City Hall, Commissioners Room- 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.- 423 6th St. NE Officials will hold town hall meetings to help citizens learn more about the 2010 flood outlook, flood insurance, and flood preparation. The meetings are open to the public and will provide citizens the opportunity to hear presentations about what they can be doing now to prepare for potential flooding and to ask questions about flood insurance and preparedness.These town hall meetings are part of a series of outreach and education efforts the North Dakota Department of emergency Services and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are conducting to help residents prepare for potential spring flooding in 2010.
Tuesday, March 2- Cavalier- Law Enforcement Center- 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.- Building 7 - Emergency Operations Center - 308 Court House Drive NE Officials will hold town hall meetings to help citizens learn more about the 2010 flood outlook, flood insurance, and flood preparation. The meetings are open to the public and will provide citizens the opportunity to hear presentations about what they can be doing now to prepare for potential flooding and to ask questions about flood insurance and preparedness.These town hall meetings are part of a series of outreach and education efforts the North Dakota Department of emergency Services and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are conducting to help residents prepare for potential spring flooding in 2010.
Tuesday, March 2: Qi~ssage (combination massage and qigong) Learn these techniques to stimulate health and healing. 6:30-7:30pm. $20/person or $30/couple. Call Jan to register by Monday, March 1. 701-261-3142. HeartSprings is located out of Messiah Lutheran Church, 2010 N Elm St., Fgo.
Tuesday, March 2: Take Time for Tea with Jane. 9:45-11:45 Speak with Jane about any nutritional concerns you may have. Free-will offering.
Wednesday, March 3- Minot - City Administration Building - 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.- Room 201- 420 3rd Ave. NE Officials will hold town hall meetings to help citizens learn more about the 2010 flood outlook, flood insurance, and flood preparation. The meetings are open to the public and will provide citizens the opportunity to hear presentations about what they can be doing now to prepare for potential flooding and to ask questions about flood insurance and preparedness.These town hall meetings are part of a series of outreach and education efforts the North Dakota Department of emergency Services and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are conducting to help residents prepare for potential spring flooding in 2010.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010: Grand Forks ESGR meets at noon. Point of contact is: Jim Martini - jmartini@thevillagefamily.org.
Saturday, March 6, 2010: HeartSprings will be holding a camp for children kindergarten through 5th grade who live with Asperger's. Both morning and afternoon sessions involve four professionals in occupational, music, and equestrian therapies and drama coaching. This half-day camp is at "Riding on Angel's Wings" in Felton, MN. We are limited to the first 16 youth per session and must have a minimum of 13 youth per session. Cost is $57 per child. Registration deadline is Feb 26. Call Jan at Heart Springs for more information -701.261.3142 or go to our website at www.heartspringscenter.com and click on life transitions and special needs children
Monday/Tuesday, March 8-9: Walk the Labyrinth Monday 12-5pm and Tuesday 8-6pm. Free HeartSprings is located out of Messiah Lutheran Church, 2010 N Elm St., Fgo.
Tuesday, March 9: Drumming from 9:45-10:45am and Learning how to play Native American flute 10:45-11:45am. Free-will offering. HeartSprings is located out of Messiah Lutheran Church, 2010 N Elm St., Fgo.
Tuesday, March 9: Contemplative Service 5:15-6pm. Free-will offering. HeartSprings is located out of Messiah Lutheran Church, 2010 N Elm St., Fgo.
Thursday, March 11: Laugh the Night Away (laughter yoga and improv). 6:30-8pm. $10 Call Jan to register by Wednesday, March 10. 701-261-3142. HeartSprings is located out of Messiah Lutheran Church, 2010 N Elm St., Fgo.
Thursday, March 11, 2010.Grand Forks/East Grand Forks Chamber Military Affairs Committee- Grand Forks Chamber 8 am. Jerry Youngberg- Jerry@JerryYoungberg.com or info@gochamber.org.
Thursday, March 11, 2010- Grand Forks Area Veterans Network meets at the Italian Moon from Noon to 1:00 pm. Contact Heidi.Sanger@VA.gov for more information.
States: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.Overseas: Guam, Germany. Information about the camp program and eligibility is available online at www.militaryfamily.org.
Tuesday, March 16: Playing with Art 9:45-11:45 (two sessions) Free-will offering. HeartSprings is located out of Messiah Lutheran Church, 2010 N Elm St., Fgo.
Tuesday, March 16: Caregiving Series: Laughter Can Be the Best Medicine. Come and experience the benefits of laughter yoga and the joy it can bring to caregiving. 12:15-1pm. $5 lunch optional. HeartSprings is located out of Messiah Lutheran Church, 2010 N Elm St., Fgo.
Tuesday, March 17, 2010. The Grand Forks Air Force Base Officer's Spouses club meets the third Tuesday of the month for general membership meetings. The GFAFB OSC also has several special interest clubs such as the Book Club and Bunco group. These smaller subgroups of our main membership on various dates and each year the groups change based on the interests of our membership. For more information on how you can get involved contact Jamie Linck president@gfosc.com
Wednesday, March 17, 2010- The GFAFB Enlisted Spouse Club holds social meetings on the third Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the Community Activity Center. http://www.gfesc.com/ or contact Angela Kinneberg angela.kinneberg@hotmail.com
Thursday, March 18: Restorative Yoga 6:30-7:45pm. $10 Call Jan by 5pm Tuesday, March 16th to register for class 701-261-3142. HeartSprings is located out of Messiah Lutheran Church, 2010 N Elm St., Fgo.
Friday March, 19, 2010- Sunday, March 21, 2010 - Adjutant General's Symposium for the Military Family (symposium committee head is Ginny Bachman). Radisson Hotel in Bismarck.
There will be a keynote speaker and breakouts throughout the day covering different topics. You will be in the company of other volunteers that are going through what you are, or have in the past. Wendy Day has been a speaker, trainer and teacher for over 15-years. She has been the featured speaker at Support the Troops events, 9/11 remembrances, and other community rallies. She has been featured in numerous local television, radio and print media interviews. She currently serves as a Trustee on the Board for Howell Public Schools. She has presented at both the Michigan and National conferences for the National Guard Family Program. During her time as the Family Readiness Group President, she helped families through the death of a soldier and through several injuries within the Unit, including her own husband.
A block of rooms at the Radisson has been set aside until February 26th. Call the Radisson Hotel (701) -255-6000 (State Family Workshop) to reserve your room. Day care is available FREE for the Friday night social as well as the hours during the workshop. Lunch will be provided on Saturday. Conference registration fee is $25.00. Contact Justin at &701) 333-4804 for details.
Tuesday, March 23: Writing for Expression 9:45-11:45 (two sessions). Playing with words to
express YOUR thoughts and feeling in a non-threatening environment. Free-will offering. HeartSprings is located out of Messiah Lutheran Church, 2010 N Elm St., Fgo.
Tuesday, March 23: Worship and Healing Service. Ecumenical Christian service. 6:30-7:30pm. Free-will offering. HeartSprings is located out of Messiah Lutheran Church, 2010 N Elm St., Fgo.
Tuesday, March 23: Grieving Series: Taking Care of My Finances. I've never had to do that! Presented by Susan Johnson-Drenth, elder law attorney from Vogel law firm. She will speak about what you need to think about for the future of your finances. 12:15-1pm. Free lunch. HeartSprings is located out of Messiah Lutheran Church, 2010 N Elm St., Fgo.
Wednesday, March 30, 2010- Bismarck/Mandan Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Task Force. The Military Affairs Task Force was recruited to increase awareness and support of the role of the Guard, Reserve and active-duty military in the community. Meets at the Chamber at noon. Katie Moore – (701) 223-5660 or katiem@bismarckmandan.com
April – Month of the Military Child.
Thursday, April 1, 2010- Sgt Cody Mormann will receive the Purple Heart commendation at Ft. Carson, CO.
Thursday, April 8, 2010.Grand Forks/East Grand Forks Chamber Military Affairs Committee- Grand Forks Chamber 8 am. Jerry Youngberg- Jerry@JerryYoungberg.com or info@gochamber.org.
Thursday, April 8, 2010- Grand Forks Area Veterans Network meets at the Italian Moon from Noon to 1:00 pm. Contact Heidi.Sanger@VA.gov for more information.
Sunday, April 11: Menopause Retreat: The Great Awakening A psycho/spiritual approach to menopause. 1-5pm $20. Call Jan to register by Friday, April 9th at # 701-261-3142. HeartSprings is located out of Messiah Lutheran Church, 2010 N Elm St., Fgo.
April 13-15, 2010- 2010 Dakota Conference on Rural and Public Health - Grand Forks- Health Care in Transition: Creative Strategies - For more information, contact: Kylie Nissen at 701.777.5380 or Email: knissen@medicine.nodak.edu The conference includes preconference workshops, keynote speakers, a variety of breakout sessions, poster presentations, evening workshops, and the annual awards banquet. Go to http://ruralhealth.und.edu/dakotaconference/ for a complete schedule and additional information
Thursday, April 22, 2010 Month of the Military Child proclamation will be read at the State Capitol at 0900. Details coming- ShelleMichaels@msn.com
Thursday, April 22, 2010 - Operation Military Child Theme- Month of the Military Child will be the focus of the meeting next schedule for April 22 in Bismarck. The Haugland room at the ND State Capitol has been reserved. Theresia Hersch, Tonya Sigl and Shelle Michaels will plan for the meeting. ShelleMichaels@msn.com or Tonya.Sigl@us.army.mil
Wednesday, April 28, 2010- Bismarck/Mandan Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Task Force. The Military Affairs Task Force was recruited to increase awareness and support of the role of the Guard, Reserve and active-duty military in the community. Meets at the Chamber at noon. Katie Moore – (701) 223-5660 or katiem@bismarckmandan.com
May- Military Appreciation Month
Thursday, May 13, 2010.Grand Forks/East Grand Forks Chamber Military Affairs Committee- Grand Forks Chamber 8 am. Jerry Youngberg- Jerry@JerryYoungberg.com or info@gochamber.org.
Thursday, May 13, 2010- Grand Forks Area Veterans Network meets at the Italian Moon from Noon to 1:00 pm. Contact Heidi.Sanger@VA.gov for more information.
Saturday, May 22, 2010- Grand Forks Air Force Base Air Show- Special presentation by the Thunderbirds. Details coming soon.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010- Bismarck/Mandan Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Task Force. The Military Affairs Task Force was recruited to increase awareness and support of the role of the Guard, Reserve and active-duty military in the community. Meets at the Chamber at noon. Katie Moore – (701) 223-5660 or katiem@bismarckmandan.com
Monday, May 31, 2010 Memorial Day
Thursday, June 10, 2010.Grand Forks/East Grand Forks Chamber Military Affairs Committee- Grand Forks Chamber 8 am. Jerry Youngberg- Jerry@JerryYoungberg.com or info@gochamber.org.
Thursday, June 10, 2010- Grand Forks Area Veterans Network meets at the Italian Moon from Noon to 1:00 pm. Contact Heidi.Sanger@VA.gov for more information.
Monday, June 14, 2010- Army Birthday
June 22, 2010- Grand Forks Military Affair Golf Tournament- GFAFB. Details coming soon.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010- Bismarck/Mandan Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Task Force. The Military Affairs Task Force was recruited to increase awareness and support of the role of the Guard, Reserve and active-duty military in the community. Meets at the Chamber at noon. Katie Moore – (701) 223-5660 or katiem@bismarckmandan.com
Sunday, July 4, 2010 – Independence Day
Thursday, July 8, 2010.Grand Forks/East Grand Forks Chamber Military Affairs Committee- Grand Forks Chamber 8 am. Jerry Youngberg- Jerry@JerryYoungberg.com or info@gochamber.org.
Thursday, July 8, 2010- Grand Forks Area Veterans Network meets at the Italian Moon from Noon to 1:00 pm. Contact Heidi.Sanger@VA.gov for more information.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010- Bismarck/Mandan Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Task Force. The Military Affairs Task Force was recruited to increase awareness and support of the role of the Guard, Reserve and active-duty military in the community. Meets at the Chamber at noon. Katie Moore – (701) 223-5660 or katiem@bismarckmandan.com
August: Cpl Nathan Goodiron is on the Lost Heroes Art Quilt http://www.ledger-enquirer.com/news/story/1020739.html . This quilt will be on display in August in New Town. More details soon.
Wednesday, August 4. 2010. Coast Guard Birthday
Thursday, August 12, 2010.Grand Forks/East Grand Forks Chamber Military Affairs Committee- Grand Forks Chamber 8 am. Jerry Youngberg- Jerry@JerryYoungberg.com or info@gochamber.org.
Thursday, August 12, 2010- Grand Forks Area Veterans Network meets at the Italian Moon from Noon to 1:00 pm. Contact Heidi.Sanger@VA.gov for more information.
August 23, 2010- Grand Forks Military Affair Golf Tournament- Grand Forks Golf Course. Details coming soon.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010- Bismarck/Mandan Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Task Force. The Military Affairs Task Force was recruited to increase awareness and support of the role of the Guard, Reserve and active-duty military in the community. Meets at the Chamber at noon. Katie Moore – (701) 223-5660 or katiem@bismarckmandan.com
Thursday, September 9, 2010.Grand Forks/East Grand Forks Chamber Military Affairs Committee- Grand Forks Chamber 8 am. Jerry Youngberg- Jerry@JerryYoungberg.com or info@gochamber.org.
Thursday, September 9, 2010- Grand Forks Area Veterans Network meets at the Italian Moon from Noon to 1:00 pm. Contact Heidi.Sanger@VA.gov for more information.
Saturday, September 25, 2010. UND/Grand Forks Chamber Military Appreciation Day. Alerus Center. Meal and Football game. Details coming soon.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010- Bismarck/Mandan Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Task Force. The Military Affairs Task Force was recruited to increase awareness and support of the role of the Guard, Reserve and active-duty military in the community. Meets at the Chamber at noon. Katie Moore – (701) 223-5660 or katiem@bismarckmandan.com
October 1-3, 2010 National Soldiers' Angels SaleAbration- Rummage sales across the nation. Contact ShelleMichaels@soldiersangels.org for details.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010- Navy Birthday
Thursday, October 14, 2010.Grand Forks/East Grand Forks Chamber Military Affairs Committee- Grand Forks Chamber 8 am. Jerry Youngberg- Jerry@JerryYoungberg.com or info@gochamber.org.
Thursday, October 14, 2010- Grand Forks Area Veterans Network meets at the Italian Moon from Noon to 1:00 pm. Contact Heidi.Sanger@VA.gov for more information.
Tuesday, October 26, 2010- Day of the Deployed
Wednesday, October 27, 2010- Bismarck/Mandan Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Task Force. The Military Affairs Task Force was recruited to increase awareness and support of the role of the Guard, Reserve and active-duty military in the community. Meets at the Chamber at noon. Katie Moore – (701) 223-5660 or katiem@bismarckmandan.com
November- Month of the Military Family
Wednesday, November 10, 2010- Marine Corps Birthday
Thursday, November 11, 2010 – Veterans Day
Thursday, November XX, 2010.Grand Forks/East Grand Forks Chamber Military Affairs Committee- Grand Forks Chamber 8 am. Jerry Youngberg- Jerry@JerryYoungberg.com or info@gochamber.org.
Thursday, November XX, 2010- Grand Forks Area Veterans Network meets at the Italian Moon from Noon to 1:00 pm. Contact Heidi.Sanger@VA.gov for more information.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010- Bismarck/Mandan Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Task Force. The Military Affairs Task Force was recruited to increase awareness and support of the role of the Guard, Reserve and active-duty military in the community. Meets at the Chamber at noon. Katie Moore – (701) 223-5660 or katiem@bismarckmandan.com
December 2010- Last Tanker will depart Grand Forks Air Force Base.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010. Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day
Thursday, December 9, 2010.Grand Forks/East Grand Forks Chamber Military Affairs Committee- Grand Forks Chamber 8 am. Jerry Youngberg- Jerry@JerryYoungberg.com or info@gochamber.org.
Thursday, December 9, 2010- Grand Forks Area Veterans Network meets at the Italian Moon from Noon to 1:00 pm. Contact Heidi.Sanger@VA.gov for more information.
Monday, December 13, 2010. National Guard Birthday
IN THE NEWS/NOTES:
The State of North Dakota and FEMA Encourage Flood Preparedness Public Meetings Scheduled for 5 N.D. Communities
DENVER - Officials will hold town hall meetings in five North Dakota communities February 20 - March 3 to help citizens learn more about the 2010 flood outlook, flood insurance, and flood preparation. The meetings are open to the public and will provide citizens the opportunity to hear presentations about what they can be doing now to prepare for potential flooding and to ask questions about flood insurance and preparedness. The town hall schedule is as follows:
Saturday, February 20 Fargo- Complete.
Monday, March 1- Valley City - High Liner Activity Center- 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.- 460 Center Ave. NE Officials will hold town hall meetings to help citizens learn more about the 2010 flood outlook, flood insurance, and flood preparation. The meetings are open to the public and will provide citizens the opportunity to hear presentations about what they can be doing now to prepare for potential flooding and to ask questions about flood insurance and preparedness.These town hall meetings are part of a series of outreach and education efforts the North Dakota Department of emergency Services and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are conducting to help residents prepare for potential spring flooding in 2010.
Tuesday, March 2- Devils Lake- City Hall, Commissioners Room- 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.- 423 6th St. NE Officials will hold town hall meetings to help citizens learn more about the 2010 flood outlook, flood insurance, and flood preparation. The meetings are open to the public and will provide citizens the opportunity to hear presentations about what they can be doing now to prepare for potential flooding and to ask questions about flood insurance and preparedness.These town hall meetings are part of a series of outreach and education efforts the North Dakota Department of emergency Services and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are conducting to help residents prepare for potential spring flooding in 2010.
Tuesday, March 2- Cavalier- Law Enforcement Center- 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.- Building 7 - Emergency Operations Center - 308 Court House Drive NE Officials will hold town hall meetings to help citizens learn more about the 2010 flood outlook, flood insurance, and flood preparation. The meetings are open to the public and will provide citizens the opportunity to hear presentations about what they can be doing now to prepare for potential flooding and to ask questions about flood insurance and preparedness.These town hall meetings are part of a series of outreach and education efforts the North Dakota Department of emergency Services and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are conducting to help residents prepare for potential spring flooding in 2010.
Wednesday, March 3- Minot - City Administration Building - 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.- Room 201- 420 3rd Ave. NE Officials will hold town hall meetings to help citizens learn more about the 2010 flood outlook, flood insurance, and flood preparation. The meetings are open to the public and will provide citizens the opportunity to hear presentations about what they can be doing now to prepare for potential flooding and to ask questions about flood insurance and preparedness.These town hall meetings are part of a series of outreach and education efforts the North Dakota Department of emergency Services and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are conducting to help residents prepare for potential spring flooding in 2010.
Legion asks for a "few moments" of time from fellow Americans this month to help wounded warriors
INDIANAPOLIS (Feb. 18, 2010) – The nation's largest veterans organization is calling on fellow Americans to spend a few moments every day between now and February 28 to help our wounded service men and women.
The American Legion's Operation Comfort Warriors is competing for a $250,000 grant to be awarded by Pepsi Cola, Inc, as part of its Refresh Everything project. 729 charities are competing for grants, which are determined by the number of votes received at Pepsi's Refresh Everything Web site. Operation Comfort Warriors is currently in second place. The top two vote getters will receive quarter-million dollar grants.
Visitors can cast their votes every day between now and Feb. 28 by visiting www.legion.org and clicking on the Pepsi Refresh icon on the right side of the page or by visiting http://www.refresheverything.com/operationcomfortwarriors.
Since December 2008, the American Legion family has raised funds for Operation Comfort Warriors, a program dedicated to meeting the needs of wounded military personnel, providing them with comfort items not usually supplied by the government. OCW ensures that patients at U.S. military hospitals and warrior transition units are given items like sweat suits, DVDs, puzzles, electronic devices, books, calling cards and more.
"The wars in Afghanistan and Iraq continue. Military service will always include inherent dangers from training and other hazardous duties," American Legion National Commander Clarence E. Hill said. "As long as our men and women are in harm's way,
The 2009 edition of the Social Security Annual Statistical Supplement was just released. It contains a wealth of information that might be interesting and useful to you. Available online at: http://www.socialsecurity.gov/policy/docs/statcomps/supplement/2009/index.html
The Supplement provides data on our nation's social insurance and welfare program including beneficiary counts and benefit amounts. Most of the over 250 statistical tables concern programs administered by the Social Security Administration but information is presented on Medicare and Medicaid plus social insurance programs including workers' compensation, unemployment insurance, temporary disability insurance, Black Lung benefits, and veterans' benefits.
Although most of the data is national in scope, individual state information is contained in at least:
1. Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance (Social Security benefits),
Benefits in Current-Payment Status, Geographic Data - Table 5.J
2. Supplemental Security Income (SSI), State Data - Table 7.B
3. Health Care Programs, Medicaid, State Data -Table 8.H
The Doctor Is In: Are You A Wise Health Consumer?
It pays to be wise, especially when it comes to your health and health care. February is Wise Health Consumer Month and a wise health consumer strives to be physically and emotionally healthy.
Wise health means being mindful of choices or decisions related to health. As a member of the military family, you have access to Defense Department-sponsored services and TRICARE programs to help you prevent health problems, reduce your health care costs and improve your quality of life. These programs can help support your healthy lifestyle habits and choices. Weight management, smoking cessation, stress management and alcohol abuse awareness are just some of the resources available to help TRICARE beneficiaries be wise health consumers.
Read more at http://www.tricare.mil/pressroom/doctor_is_in.aspx?fid=91
About TRICARE Management Activity and the Military Health System
TRICARE Management Activity, the Defense Department activity that administers the health care plan for the uniformed services, retirees and their families, serves more than 9.5 million eligible beneficiaries worldwide in the Military Health System (MHS). The mission of the MHS is to enhance Department of Defense and national security by providing health support for the full range of military operations. The MHS provides quality medical care through a network of providers, military treatment facilities, medical clinics and dental clinics worldwide. For more about the MHS go to www.health.mil.
WWII Veteran Received Medals
BISMARCK, N.D. - A North Dakota military veteran received military medals that were earned but not presented for his efforts during WWII. Private 1st Class Aloysius J. Moszer will be presented the awards by Gov. John Hoeven and Maj. Gen. David Sprynczynatyk, North Dakota National Guard adjutant general.
Moszer was a member of the North Dakota Army National Guard's Company A, 164th Infantry Regiment during WWII. They mobilized in February 1941 and the unit served until the end of the war in 1945. The 164th was the first Army unit to offensively engage the enemy in either theater when they reinforced the Marines at Guadalcanal on Oct. 13, 1942.
Sgt Terry Rishling
KFOR 12 News Release 10-048K (2/15/2010)
KFOR Soldiers Pay Tribute to Memory of Fallen Comrade
www.ndguard.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=470
N.D. National Guard News Release 10-028 (2/12/2010)
N.D. Army National Guard Soldier Deployed to Kosovo Dies
www.ndguard.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=468
Kosovo Memorial Service Photos
http://www.flickr.com/photos/kfor/sets/72157623315819461/
States: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
Overseas: Guam, Germany
Information about the camp program and eligibility is available online at www.militaryfamily.org. Specific camp information will be available when registration opens on March 15, 2010. Until then, interested families can sign up to receive email notices and announcements on the website. Camps are free to all participants thanks to support from the Sierra Club and The Sierra Club Foundation.
________________________________________________________________________________
Operation Homefront provides emergency and morale assistance for our troops, the families they leave behind, and for wounded warriors when they return home. A nonprofit 501(c)(3), Operation Homefront leads more than 4,500 volunteers in 30 chapters nationwide and has met more than 105,000 needs of military families. Operation Homefront also hosts the Web community Operation Homefront Online.- www.operationhomefront.net
How We Help
Operation Homefront provides aid to families struggling not only with emergencies, but also with the problems of everyday life. Existing programs include:
• Emergency Aid — Provides food, baby care items, vehicle donation and repair.
• Computer Program — Allows children and spouses to stay in touch with their loved ones.
• Financial Assistance Program — Addresses crises such as illness, homelessness and death.
• Furniture Program — Donates household and baby furniture; working-order appliances.
• Moving — Provides physical labor for families when a service member is deployed.
• Social Outreach — Offers Adopt-a-family opportunities, Thanksgiving/holiday baskets, back-to-school supplies.
• Community — Rebuilds the challenged social network of the military community by bringing it to our online magazine where it is convenient to everyone, no matter the time or location.
Some of our most outstanding accomplishments are:
• We received the prestigious Charity Navigator's 4-Star rating for conscientious stewardship.
• We donated more than $5 million to military families in crisis.
• We provided goods and services valued at more than $6.5 million to assist military families.
• We delivered more than 20,000 care packages to soldiers abroad.
• We delivered more than 2,500 packages to military families at home.
• We helped more than 3,000 families receive vehicle donations or repairs.
• We delivered more than 20,000 backpacks to military children headed back to school.
• We operate only on 8 percent overhead; 92 cents of every dollar raised directly supports those in need.
History
Just over seven years ago, a small group of passionate and entrepreneurial military family members had an idea and a dream. The idea was to help our troops and the families they were leaving behind as they began deploying from ports and military installations to battlefields thousands of miles away. The dream was to create a sustainable organization that would provide critical services to meet the changed needs and requirements of the military communities they were serving.
Little did they realize that this small regional effort would grow to become one of the largest and most successful charities assisting all branches of the U.S. military community nationwide. Beginning with that initial effort in San Diego, Operation Homefront now operates nationwide with 30 chapters serving 37 states with over 33,000 volunteers and more than 38,000 families served thus far.
North Dakota National Guard Ministering to the military and their families (from the Bismarck Tribune): http://bit.ly/bbYEQk
North Dakota National Guard Find out more about these open positions here at the NDANG Recruiting Facebook page (http://bit.ly/cWX5Ao), or by contacting Master Sgt. Tanya Augdahl at 701-723-32 or Tanya.Augdahl@minot.af.mil.
North Dakota National Guard Fargo city leaders, NDNG plan together for flood fight (story and video from WDAY-TV) An updated flood forecast information briefing for media will take place Friday: http://bit.ly/c6wApg
In September, the North Dakota Women's Network will once again honor a woman in our community who has given generously of her time, talent and energy to ensure a better quality of life for women in North Dakota. The Woman of the Year award is given in acknowledgement of the contribution she has made in her field, and to publicly show our appreciation for her efforts to improve the lives of women from all walks of life.
Do you know such a woman? Nominees should demonstrate leadership or excellence in one or more of the following criteria:
· Political advocacy for women: Serving to inspire women to run for political office and/or break down barriers for so doing. Being a voice in decision making arenas.
· Economic self-sufficiency: Working to advance equal pay for equal work among men and women.
· Women's health and advocacy: Serving as a voice to ensure quality, affordable healthcare for all women and ensuring a woman's right to choose.
· Education: Support of strong educational opportunities for all North Dakota women.
· Reproductive Justice: Working ensure women's reproductive health is comprehensively secure.
· Safety: Providing intervention and prevention of violence against women.
· Equality: Working to eradicate discrimination based on gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation or familial status.
The Woman of the Year and her family will be our guests at our Annual Dinner Meeting in September, where she will be presented with an original work of art to commemorate her accomplishments.
Submit the application to the following address by March 1, 2010. Application is found at www.ndwomen.org.
________________________________________________________________________________
Mike McNamara says he no longer has the time to commit to being a city councilman. The father of four and talk show host also manages a broadcasting operation and coaches high school baseball.
McNamara is the son of former Boston Red Sox manager John McNamara. He served about a year and a half in two tours of duty in Iraq.
Join other women from the Bismarck/Mandan area for a Women's Basics/Impact Self-Defense Class. This is a personal safety/self defense class that is highly specialized and teaches participants to
successfully knock out an assailant of any size.
The course is based on the idea that learning is best accomplished by "doing." A specialized trained male instructor dons state-of-the-art customized padding so that students can practice full-force defensive tactics. Students learn to deliver effective strikes and kicks to vital areas while fighting in scenarios that are as
realistic as possible. — This is a 20 hour course offered over 3 days — April 16-18: Friday starting at 6:00 PM and going until 10:30 PM, Saturday starting at 9:00 AM til 6:30 PM, and Sunday starting at 9:00 AM and going until 5:00 PM. You must be present during the entire course time.
CLASS LOCATION — MedCenter One's Training Facility at 206 1/2 6th Street in Bismarck
SIGN UP TODAY BECAUSE THERE ARE ONLY 15 SLOTS OPEN
COST IS $150
Send check with name, address and email address to
ND Women's Network
c/o IMPACT
418 E Rosser #100
Bismarck, ND 58501
For more information, call Beth Bakke Stenehjem- at 701-471-5004
Study: US Veterans Encountering Barriers As They Seek PTSD Treatment. In a story about research on barriers US veterans encounter when seeking treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), HealthDay (2/16, Dotinga) reported, "Some types of veterans are less likely to receive recommended care: males, veterans who are under the age of 25, those who live in rural areas and those who got their diagnoses at primary-care clinics and needed referrals to mental health programs, according to the report published online Feb. 9 in the Journal of Traumatic Stress." HealthDay, which also noted that between 2002 and 2008, "nearly 50,000 veterans from the Iraq and Afghanistan wars received" PTSD diagnoses, added, "Dr. Karen Seal, the study's head researcher and a practitioner at the San Francisco Veteran Affairs Medical Center, said in a news release that most veterans did attend at least one mental-health appointment. But problems -- including those at the system and personal levels -- led to lack of follow-up."
Women's Work. In the "Home Fires" blog for the New York Times (2/16, 1.09M), Iraq veteran Catherine Ross wrote, "Legislation like the Women Veterans Health Care Improvement Act, which aims to make sure women veterans get the services they need at home, is a step in the right direction, but it only addresses a symptom of the inequality women face in the active" US military. Ross added, "In reality, American women do engage in combat, so it's probably time to make it a written policy. If the policy changes, maybe attitudes will too," and women will not be "seen as less capable and something of a curiosity."
VA Gulf War Task Force Soon To Release Report. The Charleston (WV) Daily Mail (2/18, Gavin) reports the US VA "is taking an in-depth look at concerns facing veterans of the Gulf War, almost 20 years after the conflict ended. A small group of Gulf War veterans from the Charleston area had a chance Wednesday to sit down" with Sen. Rockefeller and Shinseki in a roundtable discussion on Wednesday. The Daily Mail notes that the US VA "compiled a Gulf War task force in September to study the specific issues facing veterans from that era," and the task force's report "is due out in a couple of weeks." WSAZ-TV Charleston, WV (2/17, 11:41 p.m. ET) aired a similar report.
Veterans Attributing Health Problems To Burn Pits In Iraq, Afghanistan. The Los Angeles Times (2/18, Zucchino, 776K) reports some "returning veterans have reported leukemia, lymphoma, congestive heart problems, neurological conditions, bronchitis, skin rashes and sleep disorders -- all of which they attribute to burn pits on dozens" of US "bases in Afghanistan and Iraq. 'The military needs to step up and address this problem,' said John Wilson of the advocacy group Disabled American Veterans, which maintains a registry of more than 500 veterans with disorders they blame on burn pits." The Times notes that the Pentagon "says the pits do not cause serious long-term health problems," but "some health experts," including Dr. Anthony Szema, chief of the allergy section at the Veterans Affairs hospital in Northport, New York, disagree.
THE NEXT MEETING: Operation Military Child Theme- Month of the Military Child will be the focus of the meeting next schedule for April 22 in Bismarck. The Haugland room at the ND State Capitol has been reserved. Theresia Hersch, Tonya Sigl and Shelle Michaels will plan for the meeting. ShelleMichaels@msn.com.
A block of rooms for the ISFAC members traveling to Bismarck has been locked in at the Comfort Inn, one of the most military friendly hotels in North Dakota. Make your reservation by April 8th for this block. (701) 223-1911. It is listed under the ISFAC.
WHAT IS ISFAC?
The Interservice Family Assistance Committee (ISFAC) is a voluntary military cooperative partnership organized to provide multi-service networking for training and assistance to ensure Total Force Family Readiness.
Our purpose is to provide assistance to families regardless of service component.
The goal of the ISFAC is to strengthen existing family assistance delivery systems in the event of mobilization, deployment, or natural disaster through the interaction of committee members.
Many issues surrounding quality of life and family well-being can only be addressed by states. Across the nation current focuses are being developed in regards to spouse employment, including unemployment compensation for transferring military spouses, in-state tuition allowances, financial readiness, education, and the pressing needs of severely injured service members and their families. Many state leaders share our concern for the welfare of our Active Duty, Guard, and Reserve service members and their families living within their borders, and we look forward to making significant progress in the future.
North Dakota ISFAC is currently focusing on six key topics; family support, educational benefits, license and registration benefits, tax and financial breaks, state employee
benefits and other special protections.
INTERNET AND SOCIAL MEDIA:
Interservice Family Assistance Committee
· ISFAC Blog: www.isfac.blogspot.com
· ISFAC Twitter: www.Twitter.com/ISFAC
· Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ISFAC
North Dakota National Guard Photos, Videos & Other Updates:
· www.119wg.af.ang.mil
· www.youtube.com/ndnationalguard
· www.flickr.com/photos/ndguard
· www.twitter.com/ndnationalguard
· www.twitter.com/NDNGAberle
· www.facebook.com North Dakota National Guard
Soldiers' Angels:
· www.twitter.com/soldiersangels
· www.twitter.com/publicrelations
· www.youtube.com/soldiersangels
· www.facebook.com/SoldiersAngelsOfficial
· www.facebook.com/DayoftheDeployed
· www.twitter.com/honordeployed
· www.facebook.com/soldiersangelsgermany
Local Air Force:
Grand Forks Air Force Base:
· www.twitter.com/GrandForksAFB
Minot Air Force Base:
· www.Facebook.com (Minot AFB Airman and Family Readiness Center)
United States Air Force:
· http://airforcelive.dodlive.mil/
· www.flickr.com/photos/usairforce
United States Army:
· www.flickr.com/photos/soldiersmediacenter
· www.youtube.com/soldiersmediacenter
United States Marine Corp
· www.youtube.com/user/MarineCorpsNews
· www.twitter.com/MarineCorpsNews
· www.twitter.com/USMC
· www.flickr.com/photos/marine_corps/
United States Navy
· www.youtube.com/user/usnavyweb
· www.flickr.com/photos/usnavynvns
United States Coast Guard:
· http://coastguard.dodlive.mil
· www.youtube.com/user/USCGImagery
North Dakota Legion
· www.twitter.com/ndlegion
UND Center for Rural Health
· www.Twitter.com/CRuralHealth
· www.facebook.com/CRuralHealth
Military One Source
· www.twitter.com/Military1Source
North Dakota Patriot Guard
· www.twitter.com/ND_PatriotGuard
Operation Military Kids
· www.twitter.com/OurMilitaryKids
North Dakota Red Cross
North Dakota Counties
· www.twitter.com/NDCounties
North Dakota Emergency Management Systems
· www.twitter.com/NDDES
North Dakota League of Cities
· www.twitter.com/NDLeague
If you are an ISFAC member and would like your Social Media listed here- please contactShelleMichaels@SoldiersAngels.org and send the full listing as above. If you would like assistance setting up social networking for your organization, please feel free to talk to Shelle Michaels.
Posts
0 comments:
Post a Comment