NJ Department of Military and Veterans Affairs
DMAVA Highlights » 9 November 2007

Volume 6, Number 45


Contacting us is easy!

Public Affairs Office

Phone: (609) 530-7088
Fax: (609) 530-6963



Veterans' Organizations Contact Information

State Veterans Service Council
Mr. Richard Clark
RJClark21@msn.com

NJ Advisory Committee for Women Veterans
Mrs. Anna Hoffman
hoffmanannem@aol.com

BG Willam C. Doyle Cemetery Advisory Council
Mr. William Rakestraw
warjrnj@msn.com



Veterans Hotlines

Benefits & Entitlements
1-888-8NJ-VETS
(1-888-865-8387)

Mental Health
1-866-VETS-NJ4U
(1-866-838-7654)



DMAVA Highlights Archive

DMAVA Highlights Archive Page



NJ World War II Memorial

For information or to make a donation, call 609-530-7049

WWII Memorial on the web



New Jersey Freedom Loans

What is a Freedom Loan?
* Up to $10,000
* Annual APR 6%
* Term: 5 years (no pre-payment penalty)
* Unsecured Loan (no collateral required)

Who is eligible to apply?
NJ residents who are:
* Members of the National Guard or Reserve
* Mobilized for one year or longer to fight in the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) - excluding routine training.

Or

* Served 90 or more consecutive days in the GWOT on federal or state active duty (excluding routing training) and have received orders extending cumulative active duty a year or longer.

How do I apply?
* Contact participating banks. Call or visit your local branch office to obtain an application.
* Guardmembers, Reservists, or family members with Power of Attorney must submit copies of current mobilization orders with the bank's Freedom Loan application.

Current participants:
Commerce Bank
1-888-751-9000

Credit Union of NJ
609-538-4061, ext. 401

First Morris Bank & Trust
1-888-530-2265

Manasquan Savings Bank
732-223-4450

North Jersey Federal Credit Union
1-888-78NJFCU

Peapack-Gladstone Bank (908)
719-BANK

Pennsville National Bank
856-678-6006

PNC
1-866-PNC-4USA

Sovereign Bank
1-877-391-6365

Sun National Bank
1-800-691-7701


Quote for the Week

Necessity never made a good bargain.

- Benjamin Franklin

Man is what he believes.

- Anton Pavlovich Chekhov

He who reflects too much will accomplish little

- Johann Christoph Friedrich von Schiller

A wise man knows everything; a shrewd one, everybody.

- Anonymous


Download PDF Version of this week's highlights

News For Your Views

History of Nov. 11; Armistice Day to Veterans Day

From the desk of Col. Alan Bunting, Special Assistant to the TAG

World War I - known at the time as "The Great War" - officially ended when the Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919, in the Palace of Versailles outside the town of Versailles , France. However, fighting ceased seven months earlier when an armistice, or temporary cessation of hostilities, between the Allied nations and Germany went into effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. For that reason, November 11, 1918, is generally regarded as the end of "the war to end all wars."

In November 1919, President Wilson proclaimed November 11 as the first commemoration of Armistice Day with the following words: "To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country's service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations."

The original concept for the celebration was for a day observed with parades and public meetings and a brief suspension of business beginning at 11 a.m.

President Eisenhower signing HR7786, changing Armistice Day to Veterans Day, an act which made the 11th of November in each year a legal holiday - - a day to be dedicated to the cause of world peace and to be thereafter celebrated and known as "Armistice Day." Armistice Day was primarily a day set aside to honor veterans of World War I, but in 1954, after World War II had required the greatest mobilization of soldiers, sailors, Marines and airmen in the Nation's history; after American forces had fought aggression in Korea, the 83rd Congress, at the urging of the veterans service organizations, amended the Act of 1938 by striking out the word "Armistice" and inserting in its place the word "Veterans." With the approval of this legislation (Public Law 380) on June 1, 1954, November 11th became a day to honor American veterans of all wars.

Veterans Day continues to be observed on November 11, regardless of what day of the week on which it falls. The restoration of the observance of Veterans Day to November 11 not only preserves the historical significance of the date, but helps focus attention on the important purpose of Veterans Day: A celebration to honor America's veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.

108th ARW hosting high school students

On the Nov. 15 the 108th Air Refueling Wing will be hosting students from Willingboro High School for a base tour.  The students will be tour a variety of offices and squadrons at the wing and walk through a KC-135E static display. 

DMAVA annual coat drive, Nov. 1-23

From the desk of Paul Serdiuk, DMAVA HRD

The annual New Jersey State Employees Coat Drive started on Nov. 1 and will run through Nov. 23.

Maj. Gen. Glenn K. Rieth is asking for your support of this worthwhile effort in helping those in need before the cold weather sets in. This year DMAVA has been approved to donate all the coats that we collect either to the Veteran's Homes, Veteran's Haven or to a local charity organization.

Coats must be clean and in serviceable condition. Coats for men, women and children will be accepted. The drop-off point for DMAVA Central is located in the front foyer of the building.

Additional information can be obtained from DMAVA's Coat Drive Coordinator, Paul Serdiuk at 609-530-6878.

Thank you for your support in helping other New Jerseyans who are less fortunate.

DMAVA Holiday party slated for Dec. 14

From the desk of Darlene Laarz, Holiday Committee

The DMAVA/JFHQRS Holiday Party will be held this year on Dec. 14.  The mandatory Town Hall will be at 11:30 a.m., with the holiday party immediately following.  The cost of the event will be $10, which will include a raffle ticket for a big flat screen TV and a meal from Amici Milano's.  Keep the date open so we can celebrate the holiday together! 

American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month

From the desk of Dorinda Sapp, Affirmative Action Officer

With the theme, Celebrating our Strengths, we acknowledge the various Tribal cultures and the rich heritage, art, history, and traditions of the American Indian and Alaska Native People.  This year is particularly exciting with the opening of the National Museum of the American Indian.  The opening of the museum offers an opportunity for the public to learn more about the cultures and traditions of the Native Americans from North, Central, and South America.   

What began at the turn of the century as an effort to gain a day of recognition for the significant contributions the first Americans made to the establishment and growth of the United States has resulted in the month of November being designated for that purpose.

In continuing to celebrate major accomplishments and contributions to military service during American Indian & Alaska Native Heritage Month, this week we are recognizing Medal of Honor Recipients.

The Medal of Honor is the highest award given to military heroes for their actions that have helped form our nation's rich history.  They are honored for their acts of heroism, for their "individual gallantry at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty."

The Medal of Honor is symbolic of the heroic acts that it is awarded for.  Elements of the design represent victory, strength, wisdom and valor.  Throughout history, American Indian and Alaska Native-American service members have distinguished themselves with their gallant actions during wartime. 

World War I

Jack C. Montgomery:  1st Lt., U.S. Army, 45th Infantry Division. 

v    Place: Near, Padiglione, Italy, Feb. 22, 1944

v    Citation:  For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at risk of life above and beyond the call of duty.

Ernest E. Evans:  Commander, U.S. Navy.

v    Place:  Battle off Samar, Oct. 25, 1944. 

v    Citation:  For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as commanding officer of the USS Johnston in action against major units of the enemy Japanese fleet.

Van T. Barfoot:  2nd Lt., U.S. Army, 157th Infantry, 45th Infantry Division.

v    Place:  Near Carano, Italy, May 23, 1944.

v    Citation:  For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the cal of duty.

Korean War

Charles George:  Pfc., U.S. Army, Company C, 179th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division

v    Place:  Near Songnae-dong, Korea, Nov. 30, 1952

v    Citation:  For conspicuous gallantry and outstanding courage above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy.

Raymond Harvey:  Capt., U.S. Army, Company C, 17th Infantry Regiment.

v    Place:  Vicinity of Taemi-Fong, Korea, 9March 1951

v    Citation:  For conspicuous gallantry and outstanding courage above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy.

Mitchell Red Cloud, Jr.:  Cpl., U.S. Army, Company E, 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division

v    Place:  Near Chonghyon, Korea, 5 November 1950.

v    Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy.

Sign up for TRICARE

From the desk of retired Command Sgt. Maj. Mike Hughes, Family Assistance Specialist

This is just a reminder that all ARNG Reserve Soldiers that have not been called up for deployment are eligible for the new Enhanced TRICARE Reserve Select program. Current members now have until Dec. 31, 2007, to update their enrollment forms to ensure coverage does not drop.  New members can enroll anytime throughout the year. For more information, please contact any of the following: Sgt. 1st Class Josephine Grey at 609-562-0865, Christine Cox 609-562-0876, Spc. Rivera 609-562-0846 or Spc. Rodriguez 609-562-0880.

New recycling rules for Lawrenceville, West Trenton

From the desk of Joseph K. Dunleavy, Environmental Specialist

The state has hired a new contractor to implement the Governors Executive Order pertaining to recycling at all State owned and operated facilities. This guidance is targeted for the workforce within the DMAVA Lawrenceville complex and West Trenton NJARNG locations only. The contractor and the Treasury Department have provided new collection containers for recyclable items.  These containers are to be placed on the loading dock prior to the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month so that the collection truck can pick them up. Please inform all personnel of the requirements. 

All aluminum & steel cans, plastic and glass bottles (coded 1 & 2) need to be placed in the "Decorative Containers" or the blue containers with round openings, in the Headquarters Building for disposal.  Please no caps or lids!  These items will be collected on Fridays at the loading dock. 

The new company will be conducting participatory audits and notify the Governors Office of participation rates.  Encourage everyone in your office to recycle office paper, white paper, colored paper, Post It T notes, newspaper, magazines, envelopes, folders, junk mail, and paper wrappers.

 

Heat sources Safety

From the desk of Sgt. Maj. Nick Kampf, Safety and Occupational Health, NJARNG

Each year fire claims the lives of 4,000 Americans, injures tens of thousands, and causes billions of dollars worth of damage.  People living in rural areas are more than twice as likely to die in a fire as those living in mid-sized cities or suburban areas. The misuse of wood stoves, portable space heaters and kerosene heaters is especially common in rural areas.

The United State Fire Administration (USFA) believes rural fire problems can be reduced by teaching people to recognize the hazards. The following precautionary steps can greatly reduce an individual's chances of becoming a fire casualty.

Wood stoves

Wood stoves cause more than 9,000 residential fires every year. Carefully follow the manufacturer's installation and maintenance instructions. Look for solid construction, such as plate steel or cast iron metal. Check for cracks and inspect legs, hinges and door seals for smooth joints and seams. Use only seasoned wood for fuel, not green wood, artificial logs or trash. Inspect and clean your pipes and chimneys annually and check monthly for damage or obstructions. Be sure to keep combustible object at least three feet away from your wood stove.

Electric space heaters

Buy only heaters with the Underwriter's Laboratory (UL) safety listing. Check to make sure it has a thermostat control mechanism and will switch off automatically if the heater falls over. Heaters are not dryers or tables; don't dry clothes or store objects on top of your heater. Space heaters need space; keep combustibles at least three feet away from each heater. Always unplug your electric space heater when it is not in use.

Kerosene heaters

Buy only UL-approved heaters and check with your local fire department on the legality of kerosene heaters in your community. Never fill your heater with gasoline or camp stove fuel; both flare up easily.  Only use crystal clear K-1 kerosene. Never overfill any portable heater. Use the kerosene heater in a well-ventilated room.

Fireplaces

Fireplaces regularly build up creosote in their chimneys. They need to be cleaned out frequently and chimneys should be inspected for obstructions and cracks to prevent deadly chimney and roof fires. Check to make sure the damper is open before starting any fire. Never burn trash, paper or green wood in your fireplace. These materials cause heavy creosote buildup and are difficult to control. Use a screen heavy enough to stop rolling logs and big enough to cover the entire opening of the fireplace to catch flying sparks. Don't wear loose-fitting clothes near any open flame. Make sure the fire is completely out before leaving the house or going to bed. Store cooled ashes in a tightly sealed metal container outside the home.

Finally, having a working smoke alarm dramatically increases your chances of surviving a fire. And remember to practice a home escape plan frequently with your family.

Veterans Day Activities

Cruise special offered to military, families for Veterans Day

From the desk of retired Command Sgt. Maj. Mike Hughes, Family Assistance Specialist

To honor those who serve us in the military and their families, Carnival Cruise Lines is offering a Veteran's Day promotion throughout the month of November. Active and retired military personnel are able to book up to three "Fun Ship" staterooms for themselves and their friends and family members at special discounted rates. Reservations must be made between Nov. 1 and Nov. 30, 2007, to qualify for this promotion, which is available in conjunction with a wide range of three to 12-day departures through Dec 31, 2008. The promotion is valid for individual bookings only, is capacity controlled, and not applicable with any other discount offer. Fare code CPM1 must be requested during the reservations process and military personnel must provide proof of service. Certain other restrictions apply. For additional information and reservations, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL or visit http://www.carnival.com/.

Park Service, BLM waive fees for veterans, Nov. 11

The National Park Service, the U.S. Forest service and the Bureau of Land Management will waive recreation-related fees for veterans and military personnel, along with their families, on Veterans Day, Sunday, Nov. 11.

The waiver of entrance and/or standard amenity fees on Veterans Day applies annually, starting last year, to all agencies of the departments of Interior and Agriculture. Those include public recreation lands under the management of the BLM, National Park Service, Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Reclamation and the U.S. Forest Service.

The Veterans Day fee waiver takes place on Nov. 11, even if the federal observance of the holiday occurs on a different day. This year, the federal observance of Veterans Day falls on Monday, Nov. 12.

Lowe's offering discount to military, veterans

Lowe's will offer all active, reserve and retired military personnel and their immediate family members a 10 percent discount on in-store purchases made during Veteran's Day weekend, Nov. 8 through Nov. 12, 2007.

The discount is available on in-stock purchases up to $5,000.  To qualify, individuals must present a valid military ID or other proof of service such as a VA card, VFW card, veteran's ID or discharge papers.

This offer applies to all Lowe's stores.

The discount is 10 percent off stock merchandise and special-order merchandise.

Not valid with any other discounts. (Not valid on Maytag Neptune laundry products, Maytag Ice2O refrigerators, Fisher & Paykel appliances, Dyson vacuums, John Deere products or Krups small appliances).

Paper Mill Playhouse offering tickets to veterans

On Nov. 11, at 7:30 p.m., the Paper Mill Playhouse is offering complimentary tickets (on a first come, first served basis) for all Veterans for the performance of "Meet Me in St. Louis."  For this special event, contact Denise Biel, Box Office Manager, at (973) 379-3636, Ext. 2243 for ticket availability.

The Paper Mill Playhouse has announced a Veterans Discount.  Any member of the Armed Forces, present or past, can receive a 20 percent discount on tickets to their Main Stage Productions.  Just show your military or veterans ID card when purchasing or picking up tickets at the Box Office.

Military Appreciation Monday

For the past 6 years, Golden Corral has been honoring the U. S. military with a free "thank you" dinner and beverage at any Golden Corral restaurant on Military Appreciation Monday (first Monday after Veteran's Day). This year, Golden Corral has designated Monday, Nov. 12, from 5 to 9 p.m., to honor any person who has ever served in the United States military.

From the first Military Appreciation Monday in 2001 to the present, Golden Corral has donated 1.5 million free "thank you" meals and $1.9 million dollars to the Disabled American Veterans.

The Disabled American Veterans Organization will accept contributions on Nov. 1-12 to be used in the local and state DAV chapters.

Ceremony at Doyle cemetery, Nov. 11

In concert with the Veterans' Cemetery Advisory Council, the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs will host a Veteran's Day Ceremony beginning at 11 a.m., Nov. 11, at the Brig. Gen. William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 35 Provinceline Road, Wrightstown. The public is invited to attend.

Blue Star markers set for re-dedication Nov. 11 and 12

The Blue Star Memorial Highway program began in New Jersey on Route 22 (then Route 29) in 1944 to honor the servicemen and women who had served in the military during World War II.  This program started with the planting of 8,000 dogwood trees by the New Jersey Council of Garden Clubs. The program has since grown to highways and byways across the United States and to honor "all who have served, are serving or will serve in the nation's armed forces."

Individual garden clubs throughout the nation coordinate with their state's Department of Transportation on the projects.  Signs with the Blue Star and landscaping surrounding it mark thousands of miles of highway in the continental U.S.

Nov. 11, 2 p.m. - the marker in Bay Head, on Lake Ave (take Bridge Ave. west from Route 35); ceremony sponsored by the Seaweeders Garden Club.

Two New Jersey clubs are having re-dedication ceremonies of their sites during the Veterans Day weekend.

Nov. 12, 11 a.m. - the marker on Route 22, west bound side near the Cushetunk rest area and the Ryland Inn; ceremony sponsored by the Huntingdon Garden Club.

Run supports fallen Soldier's memorial

The 2nd Annual Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial 3.5 mile run and two mile walk will be held on Nov. 11 - rain or shine - at PNC Bank Arts Center, located at exit 116 on the Garden State Parkway. The run/walk begins at 10 a.m.

Lt. Zilinski grew up in Middletown, N.J. and graduated from Christian Brothers Academy, Lincroft.  He graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point and in 2004.  He completed Airborne School while a student at West Point. He completed Ranger School and was then assigned to the 1/187th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault).  He deployed with the 101st Airborne Division on Sept. 17, 2005.  Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II died in Iraq on Nov. 19, 2005 as a result of a roadside bombing.

The LT Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund was created in his honor. The Fund has supported programs such as Underwater Warriors Foundation, Inc; Operation Support Our Troops - Wheels for Warriors; Fisher House and Warrior and Family Support Center.

Same day registration begins at 7:45 a.m.  There will be a ceremony and tribute to Lt. Zilinski from 8:50-9:30 a.m. and late registration after the ceremony until 9:45 a.m.  A post-run reception will be hosted by Carabba's of Middletown.  Award will be given to the top three male and female finishers.

Runners can register early through the web site at http://www.runwithdennis.org/ index.html. Cost is $25 for adults who register before Oct. 31 and $15 for runners age 18 and under.  T-shirts are only guaranteed to those who register before Oct. 31.  For those who register after Oct. 31, the cost is $35 for adults and $20 for those 18 and younger.

Vehicle access into PNC Bank Arts Center will be closed starting at 9:45am for the duration of the Race. This is a scenic course with challenging hills going through the complex and ending at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.  There will be no strollers or bicycles allowed on the 3.5 Mile Run course.

Free entrée for veterans at McCormick and Schmick

From the desk of retired Chief Master Sgt. Paul Gunning, Wing Family Program coordinator

McCormick & Schmick's to honor veterans with free entree a part of its ninth annual Military Veterans Appreciation Event http://www.roa.org/site/ R?i=d9OCwxPsQ7V5y0Ccu4TpCQ. McCormick & Schmick's seafood restaurant will offer all retired U.S. military veterans a free entrée on Nov. 11, in appreciation for their service to our country. The offer extends to all who are defined as a veteran by the Veterans Administration, Title 38 US Code 101, which is a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service, and who was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable. All veterans must show proper identification. Traditionally, the McCormick & Schmick's Veterans Appreciation event is held on the Sunday prior to the formal Veterans Day holiday. Since Veterans Day falls on a Sunday this year, the McCormick & Schmick's Appreciation event will take place this year on the formal holiday itself.

School will hold veterans program, Dec. 12

On Dec. 12, 2007, for the third year, the Midtown Community Elementary School (formerly Ridge Ave) will host a veterans program to Honor those who Served our Country.

We will invite the veterans from around our area and our family members. First there will be a small breakfast with the veterans. The high school ROTC will present the color guard and the high school band will play taps.

Students grades three through five have a writing contest to see who will read their writing to the veterans during the program.  The students will sing a variety of patriotic songs.

Veterans will receive tokens of the student's appreciation.

Following the program, the veterans will have a chance to speak to the entire school population. Then the vets will be placed in smaller groups with our students to share special thoughts with them.

If you wish to participate, call Brenda Cook Johnson, Educational Media Specialist/ Librarian, 732-776-2200 extension 3401.

Military Training, Schools, Opportunities

254th offers Combat Lifesaver course

From the 254th Regiment

The Combat Lifesaver Course (CLS) is a 40 hour course taught over three days by the 254th Regiment at Sea Girt.

It is intensive and instructs non-medical soldiers in the latest techniques of self aid and buddy aid. The course is centered on reducing the number of combat deaths due to the three top causes: bleeding from an extremity, tension pneumothorax (lung collapse) and traumatic brain injury.

The instruction and hands-on training includes Tactical Combat Casualty Care, Medevac procedures, improvised litters, and numerous other subjects.

Point of contact for this training at the Regiment is Sgt. 1st Class Stephen Cosmanic at 732 974-4878 or STEPHEN.R.COSMANIC@NJ.NGB.ARMY.MIL.

For questions about this or any other course also contact Master Sgt. Gary Davidson at 732 974-5912 or Gary.m.davidson@us.army.mil. Or see your Unit Readiness NCO.

More information can be found at AKO in the medical knowledge network in med training: HTTP://WWW.CS.AMEDD.ARMY.MIL/CLSP/.

Speaking, recognition opportunities for diverse Soldiers

Operation Tribute to Freedom is seeking OIF/OEF Soldiers who trace their roots to Spain, Mexico or the Spanish-speaking nations of Central America, South America and the Caribbean, and Soldiers of Middle Eastern descent to share their story at events. If you are interested in participating in this program, send an e-mail to PAO@njdmava.state.nj.us. Responses should include the Soldier's name, contact information, bio with brief deployment history, awards and PAO contact information. Include "Diverse Soldier" in the subject line.

TDY available if necessary, but local/hometown Soldiers are preferred. Responses will be taken on an ongoing basis.

254th Regiment holding training courses

The 254th Regiment (CA) will be holding training courses in the upcoming months at the National Guard Regional Training Institute, Sea Girt.

Inactive Duty Training -

Small Group Instructor Training Course, (SGITC) Jan. 5-6, Feb. 2-3, March 1, 2008. You can learn about personality types and the human thought process, how to control the sharp shooter in class, and how to present the best class possible. Few seats remain, sign up now.

Basic NCO Course,(BNCOC) next course starts in April 2008 .

Military Police (31B10 MOS-T) Phase I, Nov. 3, 2007, June 7-8, 2008; 5 seats available. Class starts in 3 weeks, get your soldiers registered today.

PRE WARRIOR Leadership Course, three weekends: Jan. 5-6, Feb. 2-3 and March 1-2, 2008; seats available. Tune up those map reading skills, pass Warrior Leadership Course.

Officer Candidate School Class 52 (OCS)- Project officers interviewing candidates at this time.

Active Duty Training -

Combat Medic Training Course (68W Sustainment), Dec. 3-12, 2007, 20 seats will be available. Look for course in ATRRS on Oct. 22.

Combat Lifesaver (CLS), 1st class will be held Oct. 29-31, 2nd class will be held Nov. 1 -3, 2007. 3rd class will be held Nov. 13-15, 2007; 30 seats have been filled for each class. Thank you for a great job!

For more information, contact Master Sgt. G. Davidson, 254th Regiment operations sergeant, 732-974-5912, Gary.Davidson@us.army.mil or your unit Readiness NCO.  You can also visit our school information on ATRSS at https://www.atrrs.army.mil/atrrscc/, school code is 1004.

 

Retirement Dinners

 

Farewell to Brig. Gen. Harvey

Come and say goodbye and relive the good old days at the retirement dinner for Brig. Gen. Charles Harvey on Dec. 15 at the Lawrenceville Army.  The dinner will be held on the drill floor, 6-11 p.m.  Cost is $35 per person and the dress is business casual.

RSVP by Dec. 7 to Marie Durling, 609-562-0739.  Send your check, made payable to DMAVD Employee Activity Fund, to: Joint Force Headquarters, ATTN: Marie Durling, 3650 Saylors Pond Road, Fort Dix NJ 08640.

For Your Calendar   

Middle School invites military, veterans to "South Pacific"

From the desk of Ronald Slate, Supervisor of Visual, Performing and Practical Arts, Springfield Public Schools

Springfield, NJ - Florence M. Gaudineer Middle School would like to extend an invitation to all of our service men and women to our performance of Rogers and Hammerstein's South Pacific on Dec. 7 at 7 p.m. The performance will take place at Jonathan Dayton High School's Halsey Hall Auditorium, 139 Mountain Avenue, Springfield, NJ 07081.

The school plans to honor our local service organizations such as the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Jewish War Veterans, and the Vietnam Veterans Association along with active members of our armed forces at this performance and would like to have you join this celebration.

The school has been working on character education and our students have been researching our service people and the sacrifices they have endured to ensure our nation's freedoms.  The students are also working with Operation Shoebox, an organization that takes supplies, items and letters from home and delivers them to our troops overseas.

Students and faculty are sure this will be a special evening for our students, veterans and community.

Honorable Mention

Doyle Cemetery Council selling grave blankets

The Veterans Cemetery Advisory Council of the Brig. Gen. William C. Doyle Veterans Cemetery is offering the sale of Grave Blankets for placement on grave sites in the Doyle Cemetery for the 2007 holiday season.

The blankets are 2 feet by 3 feet and cost $30.  They must be ordered by Nov. 30. Profits from the sale of the grave blankets will benefit the beautification of the cemetery.

Call 609-758-7250 or visit www.state.nj.us/military/cemetery for more information.

Don't talk or text while driving in N.J.

On Nov. 2, Governor Jon S. Corzine signed a bill making it a primary offense for motorists to talk on or text message with hand-held wireless telephones or electronic communication devices while driving. Motorists may use a wireless telephone or electronic communication device if it is hands-free.

The fine for this offense is $100 and no motor vehicle points or insurance eligibility points will be assessed for this offense.

Federal benefits open season coming soon

The Federal Benefits Open Season for 2008 is almost here!  Don't miss out on this opportunity.  Federal employees can enroll or make changes to their enrollment in Federal Employees Health Benefit and in one of the seven dental plans, three vision plans and set up flexible spending accounts for health care and dependent care. 

Flexible spending accounts are easy.  You pay for a wide range of common, out-of-pocket dependent and health care expenses and then receive reimbursement from your dependent and/or health care flexible spending account(s).  By setting aside pre-tax dollars, you reduce your taxable income, thereby paying less in taxes and saving money. 

Eligible non-medical expenses for the dependent care account include child care and adult daycare.  Eligible expenses for the health care account include co-payments, co-insurance, deductibles, over-the-counter medicines like cold remedies, prescription drugs, vision and dental expenses, and much more.

Current 2007 Participants:  you MUST re-enroll to participate in 2008.  Enrollments do NOT carry forward year-to-year.

Visit www.FSAFEDS.com to learn more about the FSAFEDS Program.

To find out more about the other available programs, visit http://opm.gov/insure/. Or call Sgt. Jacquelyn Bertrand at 609-562-0866.

Guard, Reserve members, families encouraged to nominate employers

The Department of Defense will open the nomination season for the 2008 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award on Nov. 1, 2007.  National Guard and Reserve members and their families are eligible and encouraged to nominate employers who have gone above and beyond in their support of military employees.  Nominations will be accepted at www.esgr.mil from Nov. 1, 2007 to Jan. 21, 2008.  The Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award is the U.S. government's highest recognition given to outstanding employers.

For questions regarding the nomination process, please contact New Jersey ESGR at 609-562-0156.

CFC kicks off start to 2007 campaign

The New Jersey National Guard Combined Federal Campaign (CFC)