SCHINNEN, Netherlands - Once again, the Department of Defense has recognized November as National Military Family Month to salute the contributions of military family members. To celebrate, military installations worldwide host events and activities coinciding with the observance. Both the Geilenkirchen Airman & Family Readiness Center and USAG Schinnen's Army Community Services plan events throughout the month to celebrate.
"Military families often make many sacrifices as they support our men and women in uniform-sacrifices that are worthy of recognition. That's the whole purpose behind National Military Family Month," explained Carla Diamond, Chief of GK's Airman & Family Readiness Center.
Ann Cooper, USAG Schinnen's acting director of Army Community Services, agrees and cites a number of family-oriented programs that support families throughout the year in addition to this one month of special recognition.
"There's a renewed focus on strengthening the family to bring them into the big picture and help them build resilience as we recognize and honor the sacrifices they're making on a daily basis," Cooper said.
GK and Schinnen's National Military Family Month activities are designed to promote and foster resiliency, community spirit, and support to U.S. personnel and families assigned in the Tri-Border area. Events listed below are open to all military families in the Tri-Border, regardless of service branch or rank.
* National Military Family Month Art Contest - All school age children may submit an art project in any form. Participants should submit their artwork to the GK A&FRC by Nov 8. Judging takes place Nov.12, and the community can stop by to see the art. Prizes awarded to best entries. For details, contact the GK A&FRC, 0049-02451-63-3791.
* It's a Family Affair! - Create family t-shirts at the GK A&FRC throughout November or as long as supplies last. Families can bring in a photo and have it printed onto free t-shirts or bring your own shirt. To participate, schedule an appointment anytime from noon to 4 p.m., Nov. 3, 10, 17, or 24 (phone: 0049-02451-63-3791).
* Parenting with Love and Logic - Schinnen's Family Advocacy Program offers an approach to parenting that combines loving support with the expectation of respect and responsibility. This class meets Thursday evenings 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Schinnen throughout Nov. Registration required, so please call 0031-46-443-7367.
* Schinnen Chili Challenge, Nov. 3 - It's back! For the third consecutive year, Schinnen's Family Advocacy is again challenging you to enter your best chili in the annual tasting competition. The fun starts at noon, Nov. 3 in the Schinnen Activity Center. To enter, call 0031-46-443-7367.
* Moving Past Praise: Support Children with Encouragement, Nov. 8 - Is empowerment the key to your child's self-worth and self-esteem' Parents can learn new skills to encourage and move past praise. Learn three easy strategies to build stronger relationships with your child. Class runs 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Call GK Airman & Family Readiness Center, 0049-2451-633791 to reserve your spot!
* 3rd Annual Geilenkirchen Chili Cook-off, Nov. 11 - Sign-up by Nov. 8 at the GK A&FRC or call 0049-02451-633791. Come de-throne our current champion of two years and claim "bragging rights" for the year! Cast your vote for best chili from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Winners announced at 1:15 p.m.
* 7 Habits for Effective Military Families, Nov. 15 - As a parent, are you finding it hard to manage your time' Would you like to obtain skills and information on how to prioritize your schedule to include more family events' This seminar focuses on Habit 3: Put First Things First. Seminar runs 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at GK A&FRC. Call 0049-2451-63-3791 to sign up.
* Family Bake Day, Nov. 18 - GK School Age Program participants will bake their favorite pies with family and friends. The community is invited to sample the pies the following day.
* Potluck Play Morning Breakfast, Nov. 18 - Join us for an interactive and educational playgroup where parents and their children socialize. Group meets 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. in the Schinnen Community Activity Center. More info: 0031-46-443-7335.
* Rock Band Challenge, Nov. 19 - Students can enter the Tri-Border's first-ever Play Station 3 Rock Band Challenge, from 1 to 4 p.m. at Schinnen's ACS. Call 0031-46-443-7500 for details.
* Family Harvest Festival Luncheon, Nov. 23 - Schinnen's Child Development Center, located on JFC Brunssum, hosts a luncheon for parents to dine with their children. Students at SAS and YS will have special event after school that day.
* Anger Management Class, Nov. 30 - Discuss the causes of anger and how it affects your health, relationships and well being. The focus is on helping people express anger in a controlled and appropriate way. Class is 1 to 3 p.m. at Schinnen's ACS. Call 0031-46-443-7453 for info.
* Movie Night, Nov. 30 - Schinnen's EFMP Support Group sponsors special viewing of "How Difficult Can This Be'" Call 0031-46-443-7371 for more details.
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