BRAGGing ACS

Awarded January-March 2008

Installation of
Excellence

January-March
We have Military Saves Week
Calendar of Events coming up February 25 - March
Dear Fort Bragg Community,
2, 2008. Military Saves is a
2007 AFAP Happy New Year 2008! It has
community-based program which
Conference encourages Soldiers and Family
kicked off with a bang for ACS. We
members to pay down debt, build
are excited to start a new year with
emergency savings and save for the
many new faces and activities for
Military Saves future, one step at a time. We will
you to enjoy.
offer throughout the week special
Cross Creek Mall classes at various locations; with
Hopefully you’ve had the chance
many local financial institutions on
Grand Opening to stop by our new satellite office
hand to offer advice. Please check
at the Cross Creek Mall. We are
our website for current information
located near the JCPenney and
Airborne Attic Lens Crafter entrance. This new
on topics and locations.
receives computers ACS office is equipped to provide
One last thing, be sure to visit the
from Boy Scouts information and referral for ACS
new location of the Soldier Family
programs and trainings. At the
Assistance Center (SFAC). We
desk you may sign up for classes,
recently moved it to the 5th floor of
get a map of the installation, or
2007 Family of the the Soldier Support Center. Come
pick-up some educational resource
by and check it out!
Year materials on deployment, reunion,
and children. Stop by 7 days a
Sincerely,
week Mon-Fri 10 am-8 pm, Sat 10
NY Firefighters visit am-5:30 pm, and Sun 12-5:30pm.
the Warrior Transition Barbara Trower-Simpkins
The office is closed for lunch daily
Battalion from 2:30-3:30 pm. Our staff can
ACS Chief
also be reached via telephone (910)
487-3265. Now ACS is available
while you are shopping to provide
“Real life solutions for successful
Army living!”

Army Community Service

Soldier Support Center,
Normandy Drive
Fort Bragg, NC 28310
DSN 236-8683/8682
 New ACS office at Cross Creek Mall
off of Fort Bragg,” “Helping Soldiers and Family
Fort Bragg’s said Lindsay members is what ACS does,” said
Army Koppinger of Koppinger. “With the Cross Creek
Community the Deployment Mall kiosk we have taken it one
Service has Readiness step further and gone to the Family
always gone Program.” “Many members instead of them coming to
above and Families are aware us.”
beyond to assist of ACS but do
our Soldiers and not have time to For more information, visit the ACS
Family members. go to the Soldier information kiosk or call 487-3265.
Their most Support Center for
recent feat was the opening of their information.”
satellite office at the Cross Creek
Mall in Fayetteville on Oct. 16. ACS is an important part of the
Army’s program to assist Soldiers
The kiosk, located in the JCPenney and their Families in meeting
wing across from LensCrafters, offers specific needs. They offer a wide
information and referrals to military variety of programs tailored to
Families and Soldiers seven days a assist Army Families living on
week. Hours of operation are 10 a.m. and off post. Programs include
to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 Financial Readiness, Deployment
a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Saturday and 12 and Mobilization, Information and
p.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Sunday. Referral, New Parent Support, Family
Advocacy, Army Emergency Relief
“We feel that being at the mall we can and much more.
reach the military Families that live

Family of the Year

The 2007 Fort Bragg Family of the
Year ceremony was held Thursday, Chaplain (CPT) SFC Brandon Roller
December 6, at the Main Post Christopher Floro & Family
Chapel. The award was presented by & Family
Brigadier General Arthur M. Bartell
Deputy Commanding General XVIII
Airborne Corps. SFC Scott McLeod SFC James Santos &
The nominated Families were: & Family Family

Mrs. Wesley Baugess

& Family
SFC Christian MAJ Son Vo &
Overend & Family Family
MAJ Mile Burns &
Family
*The 2007
Family of the
SFC Michael Evans Year*
& Family SFC Matthew Orr CPT Jeremy
& Family Click & Family
 Maryland Boy Scout Donates 22 computers to the Airborne Attic
Three Boy Scouts and their leader
visited Ft. Bragg on Saturday,
December 1st to deliver reconfigured
computers to Army Community
Service’s Airborne Attic.
In order to become an Eagle Scout,
Boy Scouts must plan, execute and
complete a complex project that
benefits a charity or the community.
Life Scout Doug Zellers collected
50 computers from corporations
in his local area. He and his fellow
scouts cleaned and refurbished the
computers; including restoring the
software to like-new condition and
installing software. They then worked
with Army Community Service at
Ft. Bragg and Ft. Meade, as well as
the Maryland National Guard Family
Advocacy Program to deliver the
systems.
Zellers partnered with Kids in Touch,
a non-profit organization which
provides FREE computers to children
of deployed military parents. Zellers
and members of his troop delivered
22 computers to the Fort Bragg
Army Community Service’s Airborne
Attic after delivering 7 to the 818th
Maintenance Company at Ft. Meade
Maryland, and 7 to the Ft. Meade
USO with 1 for use in the USO
Military Saves: Be Debt-Free; Build Wealth
The Department of Defense has
officially designated Feb 24 - March
2, 2008 as “Military Saves” Week.
Military Saves is a community-based
program which encourages Soldiers
and Family Members to pay down
debt, build emergency savings and
save for the future one step at a time.
Emphasis is placed on providing
resources, classes, and tools to enable
individuals to start down the path of
Family center with the remainder
of the 50 computers going to the
Maryland National Guard Family
Advocacy Program.
Zellers gives much of the credit
for his successful project to others.
He stated, “Without the wonderful
supportive leadership from Kids in
Touch and Boy Scouts of America
Troop 945, especially scouts Colin
Miller, Chris Pederson and my dad
Assistant Scoutmaster Toby Zellers,
we wouldn’t have been able to make
these holiday wishes come true
for children of military Families
deployed overseas.”
The Airborne Attic will make the
22 computers available to junior
enlisted Soldiers and their Families
with plans to have them distributed
before Christmas. They also provide
support for Soldiers and Family
members E-4 and below at Fort Bragg
with furniture, household goods and
baby items/clothing free of charge.
financial success and to
“Build Wealth Not Debt.”
Membership is free and open to
everyone – service and Family
members, retirees, veterans,
civil servants, contractors, NAF
employees, and friends. Any
American who gets out of debt and
saves money supports the cause of
helping our troops build wealth, not
debt.
Soldiers E-5 and above are allowed
use in emergency situations with
prior approval from the Relocation
Readiness Manager.
The Airborne Attic operates
completely from donations. Clean,
in good usable condition items are
generously donated to the Attic
from our Soldiers, Family members,
businesses, organizations and the
local community. These items
are inventoried and organized for
distribution directly to Soldiers
& Family members in need of
assistance.
The Airborne Attic schedules pick-
ups of large item donations the first
Thursday of every month, both on
and off post. You can call to schedule
your large item donation pick-ups at
907-ATIC (2842). The Airborne Attic
is located at Bldg 7006-A, corner of
Letterman/Ord, open Monday-Friday
8am-4:30pm, and is closed on all
Federal holidays.
For more information, contact Army
Community Service, Financial
Readiness Program at 396-8682.
 ACS offers NEW Community Readiness Fairs
Are you preparing for a deployment?
Maybe you just returned? Army
Community Service (ACS),
Deployment Readiness Program
has started offering FREE monthly
Community Readiness Fairs to
serve both deploying and returning
Soldiers and their Families beginning
Wednesday, December 12th.
Community Fairs are held the
second Wednesday of every month
from 3 p.m. – 7 p.m. at the Town
Hall Building (corner of Knox
and Randolph Streets). Units are
Delegates Tackle Issues During Army Family Action Plan Conference
The 2007 Fort Bragg Installation
Army Family Action Plan (AFAP)
took place from October 29th through
the 31st at the Soldier Support
Center. For three days, delegates
representing the voices of the Fort
Bragg community, met and discussed
75 issues. With the help of trained
facilitators, recorders, transcribers,
issue support persons, and subject
matter experts, delegates prioritized
issues and briefed the top 14 to the
leaders of Fort Bragg on the final day
of the conference.
encouraged to pick a fair and attend
together with their Family Readiness
Group (FRG). FRGs may sign up for
a booth at least 2 weeks in advance.
The fair is a one-stop-shop for
deployment and reunion information.  fixed format. Some of the agencies
Over 20 different programs are
available to provide resources and
answer specific questions about
deployment and reunion related
issues.  It is an informal atmosphere
allowing Soldiers and their Families
the opportunity to discuss specific
needs or concerns with subject matter
experts. Families can take their time
walking through the stations; learn
more about each program and the
services offered before, during, and
after a deployment. Plus, they can
connect with the FRG (if present)
and ensure contact information is
accurate.
Started in 1984 by a group of Army
spouses, AFAP is a grassroots
process that allows Soldiers - active
and reserve component, single and
married - civilians, Family members,
retirees, and youth to raise issues
that affect their well-being. In the
history of AFAP, 101 changes have
been made to legislation, as well as
145 policies and regulations have
been revised. Installation AFAP
conferences are held annually.
All issues submitted to the AFAP
program are discussed. Prioritized
issues that cannot be solved at the
local level are submitted to the mid-
level AFAP program and sometimes
sent on to the Department of Army
AFAP conference.
The 14 issues prioritized during this
year’s conference have now entered
This new initiative replaces the
individual unit fairs by offering a
fair that is open to everyone. Units
no longer have to find a location for
their fair and more agencies will be
represented with this new monthly
represented include Financial
Readiness/AER, Deployment
Readiness, Child and Youth Services,
Picerne Military Housing, Military
Police, Red Cross, Fayetteville
Veteran’s Center, and the Relocation
Readiness Program.
For more information, please contact
Cynthia Thomas at 907-3707 or
LaKetia Jones at 907-3683. Check
out the other great classes and events
ACS has to offer by visiting: http://
www.fortbraggmwr.com/cal.php.
the AFAP process and will be worked
by members of the Installation
Steering Committee. Updates on the
progress of all issues will be posted
on the AFAP web site (http://www.
bragg.army.mil/mwr/COMMUNITY/
VS/AFAP/afap.htm).
Issues may be submitted throughout
the year via the web site or AFAP
office. Issues submitted now will be
worked now and discussed during
the 2008 Installation Conference.
Questions may be directed to the
program manager, Kari Gonzalez.
She can be reached by phone at 396-
4447/8160.
Prioritized issues from this year’s
conference are as follows: (Please
note that issues are in no particular
order and the issue number does not
indicate a level of priority).

Conference Issue: 07-01 TITLE:
Fort Bragg Central Information Portal
Conference Issue: 07-02 TITLE:
Fort Bragg Family One Stop
Conference Issue: 07-03 TITLE:
Processing of Survivor Benefit Plan
(SBP)
Conference Issue: 07-04 TITLE:
Memorial to Honor Fort Bragg
Soldiers Killed in Action
NY Firefighters visit Warrior Transition Battalion
New York Firefighters from 7
different fire stations, including
Floral Park, Garden City, Garden
City Park, Stewart Manor, New
Hyde Park, Franklin Square
Munson and Bellerose Terrace Fire
Departments, visited the Warrior
Transition Battalion (WTB) Soldiers
on December 6-7th, to deliver some
holiday cheer. They arrived in a
U-Haul van overflowing with gifts
donated from various Families and
organizations in the New York area.
Gifts included DVD’s, televisions,
laptop computers, an entertainment
center, boxes of children’s toys, books
and clothing items.
Cont’d
Conference Issue: 07-05 TITLE:
Privatized Housing Security
Conference Issue: 07-06 TITLE:
Pedestrian Safety at Intersections
Conference Issue: 07-07 TITLE:
Staffing at Access Control Points
Conference Issue: 07-08 TITLE:
Fort Bragg Traffic Flow
Conference Issue: 07-09 TITLE:
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
(PTSD) Care
Conference Issue: 07-10 TITLE:
Loss of Medical Benefits for
Surviving Family Members
Their visit began with a trip to
Womack Army Hospital, to meet with
wounded Soldiers. Many heart felt
stories were exchanged, along with
many thanks from the Firefighters.
Christmas cards signed by school
children of New York were also
delivered to the wounded Soldiers.
The NY Firefighters were then
greeted at the Watters Center where
over two hundred WTB Soldiers,
spouses and children were waiting to
greet them and applaud their arrival.
A special dinner followed with
Karaoke and drawings for an electric
guitar, coffee mugs, and a variety of
other door prizes. The night continued
with a trip to the Tree Lighting
Ceremony and more Karaoke at the
Iron Mike Brew Pub.
Friday morning came early with a
breakfast together at the Iron Mike
Dining Facility, followed by a few
awards from the WTB to the NY
Conference Issue: 07-11 TITLE:
Medical Care Transportation
Conference Issue: 07-12 TITLE:
Youth Clothing Choices
Conference Issue: 07-13 TITLE:
Teen Club
Conference Issue: 07-14 TITLE:
Teen Opportunities
Firefighters. “I’ve done a lot of
crazy things in my life, but I would
never want to do what you guys do,”
said Battalion Commander Lt. Col.
Thornton of the Firefighters. Many
thanks and hugs were exchanged,
with promises to return next year.
Chief William Grogan of the Stewart
Manor Fire Department said, “All
of us were so impressed by the
magnitude of the sacrifices being
made by so few Americans for so
many. It is the highlight of my life
to have had the opportunity to meet
so many distinguished American
Warriors who were willing to respond
to those who attacked the USA on 09-
11.”
 January 2008 Calendar of Events
January 8
Co-Parenting Children of Divorce
9 a.m.-12 p.m., ACS. This course is designed to
help divorcing couples work more cooperatively and
effectively with each other while focusing on what is in
the best interest of their children. Participants must pick
up a booklet and complete assignment prior to attending
the class. To register, call 396-5521.
January 8
Stress Management
1 p.m.-3 p.m., ACS.  This class covers stress symptom
identification, stressor identification, stress management
skills selection and stress management implementation.
Learn how to take control of yourself by learning to
control your stress instead of allowing it to control you.
To register, call 396-5521.
January 8
Employment Orientation
9 a.m.-12 p.m., ACS. Class allows applicants seeking
employment to meet with employers on and off the
installation. Employment information, resources,
volunteer and educational opportunities. To register, call
396-2390.
January 8, 22
Personal Financial Management Training Class
8 a.m. - 5 p.m., ACS. Learn about principles of personal
finances, planning and budgeting, banking and checking
accounts, using credit wisely, insurance, saving and
investing, making large purchases, consumer scams and
getting help. To register, call 396-2507.
January 8
FRG Intermediate
9 a.m. – 12 p.m., FRG Center. Key Caller Training
– learn how to communicate with Families. Treasurer
Training – FRG funds and fundraising guidelines. To
register, call Cheryl Blankenship 396-1499, email cheryl.
blankenship1@us.army.mil.
January 9
Newcomer’s Orientation
8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., FRG Center. Information
available on schools, housing, employment, medical
care and recreation. The briefing will include a welcome
packet with various military and local community
services. Bus tour of Fort Bragg will highlight key points
and benefits. Free. To register or for more information,
contact Nicole Martuszewski at 910-907-1875, email
nicole.martuszewski@us.army.mil.
January 9
82nd Spouse Orientation
9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m., Gavin Hall. The briefing will
provide valuable information regarding schools, ID,
DEERS, legal services, Robinson Clinic, finance and
Army Community Service. Event is open to newcomers
to Fort Bragg. To register,call Ellen Bowman 432-4676,
email ellen.bowman@us.army.mil.
January 9
Community Readiness Fair
3 p.m. – 7 p.m., Town Hall Building (corner of Knox and
Randolph Streets). FREE Readiness Fair that is open to
the Fort Bragg Community! Over 20 different programs
will be available with deployment and reunion resources
for Soldiers and Family members. For more information
contact: LaKetia Jones 907-3683, email laketia.jones@
us.army.mil or Cynthia Thomas 907-3707, email cynthia.
thomas10@us.army.mil.
January 9, 16, 23
Parenting 5-12 Year Olds
9 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., ACS. This three-day class provides
the tools to build a strong parent-child relationship and
enhance your parenting skills in the areas of discipline,
communication, encouragement, Family enrichment and
problem solving. To register, call 396-5521.
January 9
Dads 101
2:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., ACS. The goal of this class is to
provide new dads with important skills they need to pitch
in and be the best, most effective dads they can be. To
register, call 396-5521.
January 9
Anger Management
1 p.m. - 3 p.m., ACS.  This class will provide you with
skills to help you evaluate, understand and control your
anger. To register, call 396-5521.
January 10
PCS Pre-Move Briefing (OCONUS)
9 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., ACS. The PCS pre-move briefing
provides pre-departure information for individuals
relocating. Topics covered include transportation,
housing, finance, legal issues, exceptional Family
members, budget planning, employment and
sponsorship. To register, call 396-8683.
January 10, 17, 24
Parenting 1-4 Year Olds
9 a.m. - 11 a.m., ACS. This three-day class provides
the tools to build a strong parent-child relationship and
enhance your parenting skills in the areas of discipline,
how to prevent problems such as tantrums and more. To
register, call 396-5521.
January 10
Rear “D” Dads
6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., ACS. Dads helping Dads. Come
teach what you have learned, get advice from other Dads.
To register, call 396-8683.
January 12
8 Habits of a Successful Marriage
9 a.m. - 4 p.m., ACS. Start the New Year right! Re-
commit yourself to a happier, healthier relationship.
Learn key principles to building a stronger, more loving
relationship. You will learn principles of building trust,
resolving conflict, increased companionship, controlling
your emotions and much more. To register, call 396-
5521.
January 12
FRG Essentials
8 a.m. – 2 p.m., FRG Center. This class will serve as an
introduction into the Family Readiness Group. Students
will enhance their working knowledge as they review the
FRG mission and determine how leaders can enhance
mission readiness. To register, call Lindsey Jones 432-
3742, email lindsey.jones4@
us.army.mil.
Registration is required for all classes
January 12
FRG Intermediate unless otherwise stated. Childcare is
2 p.m. – 5 p.m., FRG
Center. Key Caller
available for most classes. Please register at
Training – learn how
to communicate with
least 2 weeks in advance.
Families. Treasurer
Training – FRG funds
and fundraising guidelines. To register, call Cheryl
Blankenship 396-1499, email cheryl.blankenship1@
us.army.mil.
January 12
High School Financial Planning Class
1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m., ACS. The National Endowment
for Financial Education (NEFE) High School Financial
planning classes are an up to date version of what high
school students need to know for a successful financial
start. To register, call 396-2507.
January 14-18
Employment Tools Workshop
9 a.m.- 1 p.m., Fayetteville Technical Community
College, Spring Lake. This five day series will assist you
with evaluating your abilities, knowledge and skills by
exploring different career fields. To register, call 396-
2390.
January 14
Professional Development
9 a.m. – 12 p.m., ACS. This program will cover
communication skills, resume tips, dressing for success,
networking and more. To register, call 396-2390.
January 15
12 Things to Know in the First 20 Weeks
9 a.m. - 11 a.m., ACS. Understanding the normal
changes in your body and the development of your
baby will assist you through the first months of your
pregnancy. You will learn about maintaining a healthy
lifestyle including exercise, proper nutrition, rest and
things to avoid. To register, call 396-5521.
January 15
Budget and Debt Management Class
1:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.; ACS. Provides tips on getting
out of debt and staying out, developing individual and
Family budget analysis and developing a spending plan.
Tips on savings and investing too. To register, call 396-
8683.
January 15
Total Self Defense Part 1
6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., ACS. Receive special training on
how to identify dangers and increase your ability to keep
you and your home safe. To register, call 396-5521.
January 15
Active Parenting for Stepfamilies
6 p.m. – 8:30 p.m., ACS. This class provides the skills
you need to build a successful stepfamily. To register,
call 396-5521.
January 15
FRG In-Processing
9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m., FRG Center. Per Appendix J, AR
608-1, all FRG key leaders must in process with ACS.
Templates for mandatory documents will be provided.
To register, call Ellen Bowman 432-4676, email ellen.
bowman@us.army.mil.
 January & February 2008 Calendar of Events
January 15
FRG Essentials: Refresher Course
10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., FRG Center. Refresher course
with updated information on FRGs for those who have
taken FRG Essentials in 2006 or earlier. To register, call
Ellen Bowman 432-4676, email ellen.bowman@us.army.
mil.
January 15
Commander’s FRG Training
1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m., ACS. Training for Commanders,
based on the requirements of AR 608-1, Appendix J,
to create an FRG in compliance with Army standards.
Provides information on establishing informal funds
procedures, use of funds, fund-raising, SOP’s for
newsletters, requirements for volunteers, budgets, and in-
formal funds. To register, call Ellen Bowman 432-4676,
email ellen.bowman@us.army.mil.
January 16
Newcomer’s Orientation
8:30 a.m. – 11 a.m., FRG Center. Information available
on schools, housing, employment, medical care and
recreation. The briefing will include a welcome packet
with various military and local community services. Bus
tour of Fort Bragg will highlight key points and benefits.
Free. To register, or for more information, contact
Nicole Martuszewski at 910-907-1875, email nicole.
martuszewski@us.army.mil.
January 16
Thrift Savings Plan Class (Federal)
1:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m., ACS. Thrift Savings Plan for the
Uniformed Services and for Federal Employees offers
important information on how to save and invest for your
future. To register, call 396-2507.
January 16
Educational and Employment Resources
9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m., ACS. Educational counselors
will be available to assist you with information,
assessments, testing and resources to meet your
educational needs and employment future. Limited child
care available, to register call 396-2390.
January 17
First Term PCS “Money and Moving” Class
1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m., ACS. This class is a must for all
those first term Soldiers who have never PCS’d before.
Learn about the benefits authorized and how to have a
successful move. To register, call 396-2507.
January 17
Savings and Investment Class
9 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., ACS. Learn how to easily save your
money and make smart investments. To register, call
396-2507.
January 17
PCS Pre-Move Briefing (CONUS)
9 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., ACS. The PCS pre-move briefing
provides pre-departure information for individuals
relocating. Topics covered include transportation,
housing, finance, legal issues, exceptional Family
members, budget planning, employment and
sponsorship. To register, call 396-8683.
January 17
FRG Advanced
9 a.m. – 12 p.m., FRG Center. Compassion Fatigue
– Compassion fatigue is becoming mentally, physically,
and spiritually exhausted, being overwhelmed by the
needs and concerns of others. In this class, we will cover
the sign, symptoms, and resources available. To register,
call Morgan Whisenant 907-3704, email morgan.
k.whisenant@us.army.mil.
January 19
Life Choices for Teens
9 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., ACS. A class for teens 13-18 years
old that gives them the skills needed to make better
choices, feel better about themselves, and learn how to
avoid peer pressure. The class is interactive with group
and individual activities being the focus. To register, call
396-5521.
January 22, 24, 29, 31
Infant Care and Parenting
2:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., ACS. These four classes provide
parents with an understanding of labor and delivery, post
partum care, bathing, dressing, infant crying, safety and
feeding your baby. To register, call 396-5521.
January 23
Stress Management
1 p.m. - 3 p.m., ACS.  This class covers stress symptom
identification, stressor identification, stress management
skills selection and stress management implementation.
Learn how to take control of yourself by learning to
control your stress instead of allowing it to control you.
To register, call 396-5521.
January 23
Newcomer’s Orientation
8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., FRG Center. Information
available on schools, housing, employment, medical
care and recreation. The briefing will include a welcome
packet with various military and local community
services. Bus tour of Fort Bragg will highlight key points
and benefits. Free. To register, or for more information,
contact Nicole Martuszewski at 910-907-1875, email
nicole.martuszewski@us.army.mil.
January 23
Family Reunion Training
9 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., FRG Center. To provide Families
with an understanding of the reunion process, transition
in roles and relationships, and the importance of
communication. Training also covers Post Traumatic
Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Mild Traumatic Brain
Injury (mTBI) to heighten the Families’ awareness. A
life consultant will be present to answer any questions/
concerns. To register, call LaKetia Jones 907-3683,
email laketia.jones@us.army.mil.
January 24
Darkness to Light: Child Sexual Assault Prevention
6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., ACS. Shift responsibility for child
sexual abuse prevention from children to adults. Reduce
child sexual abuse through adult-based education and
awareness. Provide adults with information to prevent,
recognize and react responsibly. To register, call 396-
5521.
January 24
Thrift Savings Plan Class (Uniform)
1:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m., ACS. Thrift Savings Plan for the
Uniformed Services and for Federal Employees offers
important information on how to save and invest for your
future. To register, call 396-2507.
January 26
Take Time Out Monthly Social
9 a.m. – 12 p.m., FRG Center. Social activity for Family
members with a deployed Soldier. To register, call
Michelle Dowdy 396-8682, email michelle.dowdy1@
us.army.mil.
January 28 –February 7
Command Financial Non-Commissioned Officer Class
9 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., ACS. Provides Commanders a
program through which education, training, counseling
and referral procedures can be established in their units.
Designed to promote, enhance and maintain Soldier
personal financial readiness. To register, call 396-2507.
January 30
Relationship Communication & Connection
9 a.m.- 4 p.m., ACS. This one-day workshop is for
you if you want romance and passion in your marriage,
you want to quit playing ‘tug of war’ and want to learn
effective problem solving; you are determined to knock
down those walls that build with time and stress, or you
would like to be able to talk together as friends. To
register, call 396-5521.
January 31
PCS Pre-Move Briefing (KOREA)
2 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., ACS. The PCS pre-move briefing
provides pre-departure information for individuals
relocating. Topics covered include transportation,
housing, finance, legal issues, exceptional Family
members, budget planning, employment and
sponsorship. To register, call 396-8683.
February 4, 11
Parenting Teenagers
9:30 a.m. - 12 p.m., ACS.  This two-session class
provides concrete steps for effectively handling Family
problems through clear, honest communication and
respectful discipline. To register, call 396-5521.
February 5
Co-Parenting Children of Divorce and Custody
9 a.m. - 12 p.m., ACS. This course is designed to
help divorcing couples work more cooperatively and
effectively with each other while focusing on what is in
the best interest of their children. Participants must pick
up a booklet and complete assignment prior to attending
the class. To register, call 396-5521.
February 5
Stress Management
1 p.m. - 3 p.m., ACS.  This class covers stress symptom
identification, stressor identification, stress management
skills selection and stress management implementation.
Learn how to take control of yourself by learning to
control your stress instead of allowing it to control you.
To register, call 396-5521.
February 5
Employment Orientation
9 a.m. - 12 p.m., ACS. Class allows applicants seeking
employment to meet with employers on and off the
installation. Employment information, resources,
volunteer and educational opportunities are available. To
register, call 396-2390.
 February 2008 Calendar of Events
February 6
Newcomer’s Orientation
8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., FRG Center. Information
available on schools, housing, employment, medical
care and recreation. The briefing will include a welcome
packet with various military and local community
services. Bus tour of Fort Bragg will highlight key points
and benefits. Free. For more information and to register,
contact Nicole Martuszewski at 907-1875 or email
nicole.martuszewski@us.army.mil.
February 6
82nd Spouse Orientation
9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m., Gavin Hall. The briefing will
provide information regarding schools, ID’s, DEERS,
legal services, Robinson Clinic, finance and Army
Community Service. Event is open to newcomers to
Fort Bragg. To register, call Ellen Bowman 432-4676 or
email ellen.bowman@us.army.mil.
February 6, 13, 20
Parenting 5-12 Year Olds
9 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., ACS. This three-day class provides
the tools to build a strong parent-child relationship and
enhance your parenting skills in the areas of discipline,
communication, encouragement, Family enrichment and
problem solving. To register, call 396-5521.
February 7
FRG Essentials
6 p.m. – 9 p.m., FRG Center. This class will serve as an
introduction into the Family Readiness Group. Students
will enhance their working knowledge as they review the
FRG mission and determine how leaders can enhance
mission readiness. To register, call Lindsey Jones 432-
3742 or email lindsey.jones4@us.army.mil.
February 8, 15, 22
Parenting 1-4 Year Olds
9 a.m. - 11 a.m., ACS. This three-day class provides
the tools to build a strong parent-child relationship and
enhance your parenting skills in the areas of discipline,
how to prevent problems such as tantrums and more. To
register, call 396-5521.
February 9
De-Stress with ACS
9 a.m. – 12 p.m., FRG Center. Fun and relaxing
activities! For more information and to register, call
Michelle Dowdy 396-8682 or email michelle.dowdy1@
us.army.mil.
February 11-15
Employment Tools Workshop
9 a.m. - 1 p.m., Fayetteville Technical Community
College, Spring Lake. This five day series will assist you
with evaluating your abilities, knowledge and skills by
exploring different career fields. To register, call 396-
2390.
February 12, 26
Personal Financial Management Training Class
8 a.m. - 5 p.m., ACS. Learn about principles of personal
finances, planning and budgeting, banking and checking
accounts, using credit wisely, insurance, saving and
investing, making large purchases, consumer scams and
getting help. To register, call 396-2507.
February 12
FRG Intermediate
6 p.m. – 9 p.m., FRG Center. Key Caller Training
– learn how to communicate with Families. Treasurer
Training – FRG funds and fundraising guidelines. To
register, call Cheryl Blankenship 396-1499 or email
cheryl.blankenship1@us.army.mil. communication skills, resume tips, dressing for success,
networking and more. To register call 396-2390.
February 12
Active Parenting for Stepfamilies February 19, 21, 26, 28
6 p.m. – 8:30 p.m., ACS. This class provides the skills Infant Care and Parenting
you need to build a successful stepfamily. To register, 2:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., ACS. These four classes provide
call 396-5521. parents with an understanding of labor and delivery, post
partum care, bathing, dressing, infant crying, safety and
February 13
Newcomer’s
Orientation
Registration is required for all classes
8:30 a.m. – 12:00 unless otherwise stated. Childcare is
p.m., FRG Center.
Information available available for most classes. Please register at
on schools, housing,
employment, medical least 2 weeks in advance.
care and recreation.
The briefing will
include a welcome packet
with various military and local community services. Bus feeding your baby. To register, call 396-5521.
tour of Fort Bragg will highlight key points and benefits.
Free. For more information and to register, contact February 19
Nicole Martuszewski at 907-1875 or email nicole. Refresher Checkbook Class
martuszewski@us.army.mil. 1:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m., ACS. Assists Soldiers with
keeping good records, managing their checkbook and
February 13 debit card transactions. To register, call 396-2507.
Anger Management
1 p.m. - 3 p.m., ACS.  This class will provide you with February 19
skills to help you evaluate, understand and control your FRG In-Processing
anger. To register, call 396-5521. 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m., FRG Center. Per Appendix J, AR
608-1, all FRG key leaders must in process with ACS.
February 13 Templates for mandatory documents will be provided.
Community Readiness Fair To register, call Ellen Bowman 432-4676 or email ellen.
3 p.m. – 7 p.m., Town Hall Building (corner of Knox and bowman@us.army.mil.
Randolph Streets). FREE Readiness Fair that is open to
the Fort Bragg Community! Over 20 different programs February 19
will be available with deployment and reunion resources FRG Essentials: Refresher
for Soldiers and Family members. For more information 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., FRG Center. Refresher course
contact: LaKetia Jones 907-3683, email laketia.jones@ with updated information on FRGs for those who have
us.army.mil or Cynthia Thomas 907-3707, email cynthia. taken FRG Essentials in 2006 or earlier. To register,
thomas10@us.army.mil. call Ellen Bowman 432-4676 or email ellen.bowman@
us.army.mil.
February 13
Educational and Employment Resources February 19
9 a.m. – 11a.m., ACS. Educational counselors will be Commander’s FRG Training
available to assist you with information, assessments, 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m., ACS Classroom. Training for
testing and resources to meet your educational needs and Commanders, based on the requirements of AR 608-1,
employment future. To register call 396-2390. Appendix J, to create an FRG in compliance with Army
standards. Provides information on establishing informal
February 14 funds procedures, use of funds, fund-raising, SOP’s for
PCS Pre-Move Briefing (OCONUS) newsletters, requirements for volunteers, budgets, and in-
9 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., ACS. The PCS pre-move briefing formal funds. To register, call Ellen Bowman 432-4676
provides pre-departure or email ellen.bowman@us.army.mil.
information for
individuals relocating. February 20
Topics covered include Newcomer’s Orientation
transportation, housing, 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., FRG Center. Information
finance, legal issues, available on schools, housing, employment, medical
exceptional Family care and recreation. The briefing will include a welcome
members, budget packet with various military and local community
planning, employment and services. Bus tour of Fort Bragg will highlight key points
sponsorship. To register, and benefits. Free. For more information and to register,
call 396-8683. contact Nicole Martuszewski at 907-1875 or email
nicole.martuszewski@us.army.mil.
February 14 February 20
Rear “D” Dads Stress Management
6:30 p.m. - 8 p.m., ACS. Dads helping Dads. Come 1 p.m. - 3 p.m., ACS.  This class covers stress symptom
teach what you have learned, get advice from other Dads. identification, stressor identification, stress management
To register, call 396-8683. skills selection and stress management implementation.
Learn how to take control of yourself by learning to
February 17 control your stress instead of allowing it to control you.
Professional Development To register, call 396-5521.
9 a.m. – 12 p.m., ACS. This program will cover
 February & March 2008 Calendar of Events
February 21
Total Self Defense I
9 a.m. - 11:30 a.m., ACS. Receive special training on
how to identify dangers and increase your ability to keep
you and your home safe. To register, call 396-5521.
February 21
First Term PCS “Money and Moving” Class
1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m., ACS. This class is a must for all
those first term Soldiers who have never PCS’d before.
Learn about the benefits authorized and how to have a
successful move. To register, call 396-2507.
February 21
PCS Pre-Move Briefing (CONUS)
9 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., ACS. The PCS pre-move briefing
provides pre-departure information for individuals
relocating. Topics covered include transportation,
housing, finance, legal issues, exceptional Family
members, budget planning, employment and
sponsorship. To register, call 396-8683.
February 21
FRG Advanced
6 p.m. – 9 p.m., FRG Center. Advanced session topics
change due to community needs. For more information
and to register, call Morgan Whisenant 907-3704 or
email morgan.k.whisenant@us.army.mil.
February 22
Take Time Out Monthly Social
6 p.m. – 9 p.m., FRG Center. Social activity for Family
members with a deployed Soldier. To register, call
Michelle Dowdy 396-8682 or email michelle.dowdy1@
us.army.mil.
February 23
Life Choices for Teens
9 a.m. - 12 p.m., ACS. A class for teens 13-18 years old
that gives them the skills needed to make better choices,
feel better about themselves, and learn how to avoid
peer pressure. The class is interactive with group and
individual activities being the focus. To register, call
396-5521.
February 27
Newcomer’s Orientation
8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., FRG Center. Information available
on schools, housing, employment, medical care and
recreation. The briefing will include a welcome packet
with various military and local community services. Bus
tour of Fort Bragg will highlight key points and benefits.
Free. For more information and to register, contact
Nicole Martuszewski at 907-1875 or email nicole.
martuszewski@us.army.mil.
February 27
Family Reunion Training
9 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., FRG Center. To provide Families
with an understanding of the reunion process, transition
in roles and relationships, and the importance of
communication. Training also covers Post Traumatic
Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Mild Traumatic Brain
Injury (mTBI) to heighten the Families’ awareness. A
life consultant will be present to answer any questions/
concerns. To register, call LaKetia Jones 907-3683 or
email laketia.jones@us.army.mil.
February 27
Relationship Communication & Connection
9 a.m. - 4 p.m., ACS. This one-day workshop is for
you if you want romance and passion in your marriage,
you want to quit playing ‘tug of war’ and want to learn
effective problem solving; you are determined to knock
down those walls that build with time and stress, or you
would like to be able to talk together as friends. To
register, call 396-5521.
February 28
Darkness to Light: Child Sexual Assault Prevention
6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., ACS. Shift responsibility for child
sexual abuse prevention from children to adults. Reduce
child sexual abuse through adult-based education and
awareness. Provide adults with information to prevent,
recognize and react responsibly. To register, call 396-
5521.
March 4
Employment Orientation
9 a.m.-12 p.m., ACS. Class allows those seeking
employment to meet with employers on and off the
installation. Employment information, resources,
volunteer and educational opportunities. To register, call
396-2390.
March 4
Stress Management
1 p.m. - 3 p.m., ACS.  This class covers stress symptom
identification, stressor identification, stress management
skills selection and stress management implementation.
Learn how to take control of yourself by learning to
control your stress instead of allowing it to control you.
To register, call 396-5521.
March 4
Co-Parenting Children of Divorce and Custody
9 a.m.-12 p.m., ACS. This course is designed to
help divorcing couples work more cooperatively and
effectively with each other while focusing on what is in
the best interest of their children. Participants must pick
up a booklet and complete assignment prior to attending
the class. To register, call 396-5521.
March 5, 12, 19
Parenting 5-12 Year Olds
9 a.m. - 11:30 a.m., ACS. This three-day class provides
the tools to build a strong parent-child relationship and
enhance your parenting skills in the areas of discipline,
communication, encouragement, Family enrichment and
problem solving. To register, call 396-5521.
March 5
Newcomer’s Orientation
8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., FRG Center. Information
available on schools, housing, employment, medical
care and recreation. The briefing will include a welcome
packet with various military and local community
services. Bus tour of Fort Bragg will highlight key points
and benefits. Free. For more information and to register,
contact Nicole Martuszewski at 907-1875 or email
nicole.martuszewski@us.army.mil.
March 5
82nd Spouse Orientation
9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m., Gavin Hall. The briefing will
provide information regarding schools, ID’s, DEERS,
legal services, Robinson Clinic, finance and Army
Community Service. Event is open to newcomers to Fort
Bragg. Registration is required. To register, call Ellen
Bowman 432-4676 or email ellen.bowman@us.army.mil.
March 6, 13, 20
Parenting 1-4 Year Olds
9 a.m. - 11 a.m., ACS. This three-day class provides
the tools to build a strong parent-child relationship and
enhance your parenting skills in the areas of discipline,
how to prevent problems such as tantrums and more. To
register, call 396-5521.
March 6
FRG Essentials
9 a.m. – 3 p.m.., FRG Center. This class will serve as an
introduction into the Family Readiness Group. Students
will enhance their working knowledge as they review the
FRG mission and determine how leaders can enhance
mission readiness. To register, call Lindsey Jones 432-
3742 or email lindsey.jones4@us.army.mil.
March 8
SGT I. Mike’s Puppet Show
Time TBD, Location TBD. SGT I. Mike’s puppet show
was created as a tool for service members and their
children to communicate about deployment issues.
Through the use of puppets Army Community Service
puppeteers discuss real problems and solutions with
age appropriate scripts. Such issues discussed are extra
chores, the fear of their parent getting sick or injured,
or the fear of their parent not remembering them.
The facilitator and puppets work through these issues
by using a light hearted approach and involving the
children in the script. Parents must accompany children.
Registration preferred. For show time, location, and to
register, call Stacey Delgado at 907-3703 or email stacey.
r.delgado@us.army.mil.
March 10
Professional Development
9 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., ACS. This program will cover
communication skills, resume tips, dressing for success,
networking and more. To register call 396-2390.
March 10-14
Employment Tools Workshop
9 a.m.-1 p.m., Fayetteville Technical Community
College, Spring Lake. This five day series will assist you
with evaluating your abilities, knowledge and skills by
exploring different career fields. To register, call 396-
2390.
March 11
Total Self Defense I
6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., ACS. Receive special training on
how to identify dangers and increase your ability to keep
you and your home safe. To register, call 396-5521.
March 11
FRG Intermediate
9 a.m. – 12 p.m., FRG Center. Key Caller Training
– learn how to communicate with Families. Treasurer
Training – FRG funds and fundraising guidelines. To
register, call Cheryl Blankenship 396-1499 or email
cheryl.blankenship1@us.army.mil.
 March 2008 Calendar of Events
March 12
Anger Management
1 p.m. - 3 p.m., ACS.  This class will provide you with
skills to help you evaluate, understand and control your
anger. To register, call 396-5521.
March 12
Educational & Employment Resources
9 a.m. - 11 a.m., ACS. Educational counselors will be
available to assist you with information, assessments,
testing and resources to meet your educational needs and
employment future. To register, call 396-2390.
March 12
Newcomer’s Orientation
8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., FRG Center. Information available
on schools, housing, employment, medical care and
recreation. The briefing will include a welcome packet
with various military and local community services.
Bus tour of Fort Bragg will
highlight key points and
benefits. Free. For more
information and to register,
contact Nicole Martuszewski
at 907-1875 or email nicole.
martuszewski@us.army.mil.
March 12
Community Readiness Fair
3 p.m. – 7 p.m., Town Hall Building (corner of Knox and
Randolph Streets). FREE Readiness Fair that is open to
the Fort Bragg Community! Over 20 different programs
will be available with deployment and reunion resources
for Soldiers and Family members. For more information
contact: LaKetia Jones 907-3683, email laketia.jones@
us.army.mil or Cynthia Thomas 907-3707, email cynthia.
thomas10@us.army.mil.
March 13
Rear “D” Dads
6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m., ACS. Dads helping Dads. Come
teach what you have learned, get advice from other Dads.
To register, call 396-8683.
March 13
Darkness to Light: Child Sexual Assault Prevention
6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., ACS. Shift responsibility for child
sexual abuse prevention from children to adults. Reduce
child sexual abuse through adult-based education and
awareness. Provide adults with information to prevent,
recognize and react responsibly. To register, call 396-
5521.
March 15
Life Choices for Teens
9 a.m.-12 p.m., ACS. A 3 hour class for teens 13-18
years old that gives them the skills needed to make better
choices, feel better about themselves, and learn how to
avoid peer pressure. The class is interactive with group,
and individual activities being the focus. To register, call
396-5521.
March 18
FRG In-Processing
9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m., FRG Center. Per Appendix J, AR
608-1, all FRG key leaders must in process with ACS.
Templates for mandatory documents will be provided.
To register, call Ellen Bowman 432-4676 or email ellen.
bowman@us.army.mil.
March 18, 20, 25, 27
Infant Care and Parenting
2:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., ACS. These four classes provide
parents with an understanding of labor and delivery, post
partum care, bathing, dressing, infant crying, safety and
feeding your baby. To register, call 396-5521.
March 18
FRG Essentials: Refresher
10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., FRG Center. Refresher course
with updated information on FRGs for those who have
taken FRG Essentials in 2006 or earlier. To register,
call Ellen Bowman 432-4676 or email ellen.bowman@
us.army.mil.
March 18
Active Parenting for Stepfamilies
6 p.m. – 8:30 p.m., ACS. This class provides the skills
you need to build a successful stepfamily. To register,
call 396-5521.
March 18
Commander’s FRG Training
1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m., ACS Classroom. Training for
Commanders, based on the requirements of AR 608-1,
Appendix J, to create an FRG in compliance with Army
standards. Provides information on establishing informal
funds procedures, use of funds, fund-raising, SOP’s for
newsletters, requirements for volunteers, budgets, and
in-formal funds. Registration is required. To register,
call Ellen Bowman 432-4676 or email ellen.bowman@
us.army.mil.
March 19
Stress Management
1 p.m. - 3 p.m., ACS.  This class covers stress symptom
identification, stressor identification, stress management
skills selection and stress management implementation.
Learn how to take control of yourself by learning to
control your stress instead of allowing it to control you.
To register, call 396-5521.
March 19
Newcomer’s Orientation
8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., FRG Center. Information
available on schools, housing, employment, medical
care and recreation. The briefing will include a welcome
packet with various military and local community
services. Bus tour of Fort Bragg will highlight key points
and benefits. Free. For more information and to register,
contact Nicole Martuszewski at 907-1875 or email
nicole.martuszewski@us.army.mil.
March 20
FRG Advanced
9 a.m. – 12 p.m., FRG Center. Advanced session
topics change due to community needs. Registration
is required. For more information and to register,
call Morgan Whisenant 907-3704 or email morgan.
k.whisenant@us.army.mil.
March 22
Take Time Out Monthly Social
9 a.m. – 12 p.m., FRG Center. Social Activity for
Family members with a deployed Soldier. Registration
is required. To register, call Michelle Dowdy 396-8682
or email michelle.dowdy1@us.army.mil.
March 25
Personal Financial Management Training Class
8 a.m.-5 p.m., ACS. Learn about principles of personal
finances, planning and budgeting, banking and checking
accounts, using credit wisely, insurance, saving and
investing, making large purchases, consumer scams and
getting help. To register, call 396-2507.
March 26
Newcomer’s Orientation
8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., FRG Center. Information available
on schools, housing, employment, medical care and
recreation. The briefing will include a welcome packet
with various military and local community services. Bus
tour of Fort Bragg will highlight key points and benefits.
Free. For more information and to register, please contact
Nicole Martuszewski at 907-1875 or email nicole.
martuszewski@us.army.mil.
March 26
Family Reunion Training
9 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., FRG Center. To provide Families
with an understanding of the reunion process, transition
in roles and relationships, and the importance of
communication. Training also covers Post Traumatic
Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Mild Traumatic Brain
Injury (mTBI) to heighten the Families’ awareness. A
life consultant will be present to answer any questions/
concerns. Registration is required. To register, call
LaKetia Jones 907-3683 or email laketia.jones@us.army.
mil.
March 26
Relationship Communication & Connection
9 a.m. - 4 p.m., ACS. This one-day workshop is for
you if you want romance and passion in your marriage,
you want to quit playing ‘tug of war’ and want to learn
effective problem solving; you are determined to knock
down those walls that build with time and stress, or you
would like to be able to talk together as friends. To
register, call 396-5521.
March 26
Family Reunion Training
5 p.m. – 7:30 p.m., FRG Center. To provide Families
with an understanding of the reunion process, transition
in roles and relationships, and the importance of
communication. Training also covers Post Traumatic
Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Mild Traumatic Brain
Injury (mTBI) to heighten the Families’ awareness.
Life consultant will be present to answer any questions/
concerns. To register, call LaKetia Jones 907-3683 or
email laketia.jones@us.army.mil.
March 27
FRG Forum and Expo
11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., FRG Center. Do you have questions
about FRG operations? Would you like to know what
new and exciting programs are available for your FRG?
Join us for this exciting event! To register, call Ellen
Bowman 432-4676 or email ellen.bowman@us.army.mil.
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