11th FSC COMMUNICATOR

October 2013

FROM THE FAMILY READINESS GROUP LEADER

Many of our SMs (service members) are affected by the government shutdown that started on the 1st. There is a lot of uncertainty, and as the hours pass we wait for news of a green light for federal employees to resume business. I understand the frustration, as my husbands work hours have been a causality of government crossfire. I would lie if I stated in this newsletter that I am not feeling overwhelmed or disappointed at the progress going on with our Congress, or with the undervalue placed on the American people and our presence being taken for granted. One thing in our control is our attitude and character, even toward this unfortunate series of events. Family readiness in any situation is vital, and we encourage all SMs and families to let resilience prevail even in this time of uncertainty. Though there are not as many resources available at the moment, doesnt mean there are none available. There are still people trying to help our troops who have our fellow man in mind. American author and philosopher, Maya Angelou, stated it best; You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated. Please remember that your difficulties do not define you. They simply strengthen your ability to overcome. On a less somber note, fall is in the air with Halloween dcor beginning to enhance houses in our neighborhoods. Oktoberfest and the Autumn Solstice festivities are approaching, which I hope may bring distraction and amusement to you all. May your month end in joy and candy Alex Alvarez

FRG MEETINGS 2013 OCTOBER: -Canceled NOVEMBER: -PLACE: Camp Roberts -TIME & DATE: TBA DECEMBER: Unit Christmas Event

11th FSC FRG MISSION STATEMENT: Promoting readiness, knowledge, unity, and support for families in our unit during peacetime and wartime and ensuring communication between the command, service members, and their families.

WE CARE MEETINGS WE CARE meetings are monthly meetings that discuss different topics relevant to our families and community, and strides to provide unity amongst families. Meetings vary on location and time, as our unit families are spread throughout California. To utilize this beneficial resource, please visit the California National Guards website at www.calguard.ca.gov/readyfa milies for further information for your local WE CARE.

THIS MONTH WE CELEBRATE

FOOD PANTRY We are collecting any nonperishable goods for the unit food pantry. If you would like to donate, or if you are in need of these items, please email aide0321@gmail.com. All requests are on a confidential basis.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month Bullying Prevention Month Caffeine Addiction Recovery Month German-American Heritage Month Global ADHD Awareness Month Italian-American Heritage Month National Chili Month National Down Syndrome Month National Seafood Month National Sudden Infant Death Syndrome Awareness Month Pizza Month Polish-American Heritage Month National Taco Day- 4th World Day of Bullying Prevention/Blue Shirt Day- 7th General Pulaski Memorial Day- 11th Columbus Day- 14th Indigenous Peoples Day- 14th National Grouch Day- 15th Bosss Day-16th Mammography Day-18th Sweetest Day- 19th National Chocolates Day- 28th St. Judes Day- 28th National Candy Corn Day- 30st Halloween- 31st National Caramel Apple Day- 31st Samhain- 31st

YOUR OPINION MATTERS!!! If there are any specific topics or information that you would like to see on future FRG newsletters, feel free to let us know! Please email aide0321@gmail.com with your suggestions.

11th FSC CONTACTS TO HAVE

Captain (CPT) Eckman- Unit Commander christopher.eckman@us.army.mil Alex Alvarez- Family Readiness Group Leader aide0321@gmail.com Cherie White- Battalion Family Readiness Group Leader cherie-white@sbcglobal.net

PATRIOTS AND PAWS FRG WEBSITE! If you havent done so already, make sure to check out the FRG website for further resources and information for Service Members (SMs) and family members. http://11thfscfrg.weebly.com Patriots and Paws is a non-profit organization that assists veterans with acquiring free donated home furnishings. They also provide Vets the opportunity to acquire a rescued companion animal that is current with shots, along with three months worth of food for their companion. For more information, you can visit them on Facebook or on their website, www.patriotsandpaws.org.