Ffsc Aug 09 Newsletter

AUGUST 2009

New Orleans

The FFSC Focus No one money personality is better than another. In fact different types can complement each other and create SPEAKING OF MONEY—how to spend it, balance in a union—if the partners are whether to save it, what to do with it in able to communicate with each other about money-related issues. Three general, can lead to very difficult simple tips for communicating about conversations in many relationships. money with spouses or partners are: Often the difficulties have little to do with dollar signs and more to do with 1. Plan a time, place, and topic so that the fact that the people talking have everyone is prepared to focus on very different ideas about money and solutions. (This Saturday morning, financial matters. One person may have the money personality of a “Free Spirit” let’s put together a basic budget for but be married to a “Targeted Goals” the Fall expenses.) personality. A person who identifies 2. Agree to listen to one another and with money as “Security” may realize commit to working toward solutions they are partnered with someone who is rather than placing blame or listing a “Spontaneous” spender. old grievances.

You learned your Love Language; but do you know your Money Personality?

$ $peaking of Money… $ a Strengthening Relationships class Friday, August 21, 2009 NSA Chapel of Care $ $ 1745-2000

What makes your partner tick moneywise? Even long-term couples can benefit from more in-depth discussions about their financial beliefs. Whether it is to buy a home, save for college or retirement, or pay down debt, learning about each other’s money personality can ease the stress of joint financial decision-making and help you put together a solid financial plan.

“Speaking of Money…” is this month’s Strengthening Relationships Series class, sponsored by the FFSC and NSA Chaplain’s office, scheduled for Friday 21 August 2009, at the NSA Chapel of Care from 1745-2000. We’ll explore common money personalities and how to communicate effectively to develop 3. Communicate and agree on how mutual financial goals. Singles are also extra money earned will be allocated. invited! Call us at 678-7569/2647 to (I know you want a motorcycle, but register. Or, if you prefer a one-on-one I also want more savings security. consultation, our Financial Specialists Let’s put half in a motorcycle fund and Counselors will be happy to meet and half in savings for emergencies.) with you.

The Fleet & Family Support Center The Fleet & Family Support Center Naval Support Activity Naval Air Station JRB Building 732 Building 370 (504) 678-2647 (504) 678-7569 TOLL FREE: 1-888-304-1939

CHILDPROOF YOUR HOME FOR YOUR BABY FOR YOUR PEACE OF MIND SAFETY FIRST! We’ve all heard the admonition time and again. But safety consciousness is especially important for parents of newborns through toddlers because babies and small children are so vulnerable. They depend on you not just for sustenance and nuturing, but also for protection. The first years of a child’s life are when parents must be the most vigilant. If you have a baby in the home or one on the way, you know how important it is to make your home safe. While childproofing your home 100% can seem impossible, even the smallest prevention measures go a long way.

TIPS FOR MAKING YOUR HOME CHILD-SAFE: ∗ Install latches to the insides of drawers and cabinets

whenever possible. Use knob latches on doors with knobs.

got questions?

∗ Install locking latches on all appliances that open and

close. ∗ Be aware of the types of plants you keep and make sure

Who do I call to find out where my furniture is? How do I get in touch with the “Relief Society”? Where can I find someone to talk to about money problems?

they are labeled. Do not use rocks or marbles in potting materials or as a ground cover for plants. Keep all poisonous plants well out of reach, preferably outside the home completely.

With so many services available to military members and their families, people often need help finding the best resources for their needs. The FFSC has Information & Referral assistance to help you find out what services are offered and how to access those services.

∗ Put all vases and other dangerous decorations out of the

reach of children. It may be tempting to leave some items out in order to teach your child about off-limits objects, but it’s safer (and less frustrating) in the long run to just remove them.

Calling us with your questions can save you both time and frustration. The “Question & Answer” experts at the FFSC can answer your question immediately, do research for you, or connect you with the most appropriate resource.

∗ Install safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs. ∗ Install smoke detectors on every floor of your home and

outside every bedroom door. Remember, infants and toddlers are especially susceptible to the dangers of fire and smoke They are generally unable to escape a fire on their own and are often elevated in cribs closer to the level of smoke.

We provide information on: Emergency services Child care Schools and educational services Temporary and permanent housing Health and medical services And much, much more!

If you’d like more information—about childproofing your home, as well as information about WIC, Budgeting for Baby, Immunization, and much, much more, in a fun setting, come to the FFSC New Parent Support Program BABY SHOWER EXPO.

Please call the FFSC at 678-2647 or 678-7569 with your questions.

The BABY SHOWER EXPO is for Moms and Dads of infants up to six months and for Moms- and Dads-To-Be whose babies are due within the next three months. Representatives from several health and education agencies will be on hand to share information about topics important to parents. Join us for this fun-filled and information-rich event at the NSA Chapel of Care on August 28, 2009 at 0900–1400.

Oh, the answers to the above questions are: ∗ Call Personal Property at 678-9820; ∗ The Marine-Navy Corps Relief Society is at 678-3210; ∗ The FFSC has Financial Specialists to assist you. 2

They Depend On You Too

W

will help you document ownership and allow others to help you find your pet. Include detailed information about species, breed, age, sex, color and distinguishing characteristics. If the pet is male, note whether or not he is neutered.

hether they normally run, trot, hop, paddle, slither, swim, or fly, if they’re your pets, they depend on you to get them out of harm’s way in the event of a crisis. Always include your pets in your emergency plan. Here are some tips for being prepared to protect your scaly, furry, and feathered friends.

Accommodations: Secure appropriate lodging in advance depending on the number and type of animals in your care. Public emergency shelters may not allow animals. Call or check the website of the Louisiana SPCA (www.la-spca.org) or the LA Department of Agriculture & Forestry (www.ldaf.state.la.us) to locate pet-friendly shelters. You will be required to care for your pet, which means that just dropping them off will not be an option. More and more hotels now accept pets for a fee, especially during emergency situations. Look on www.petsallowed-hotels.com or www.petswelcome.com

Basic Supply Kit: Of course you know to have plenty of food and fresh water, a bowl, a leash, medications, and a blanket packed and ready to go. Crates or Pet Carriers: Be forewarned—pet carriers typically sell out very quickly when evacuation orders are called. The carrier should be large enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down in it. Label it with your pet’s name and your name, address, and phone number, including contact information that will allow you to be reached outside the disaster zone.

Vacation Reminder: Before going on vacation during the hurricane season, make an emergency plan with your pet’s caretaker. If you leave Little Fido or Cute Kitty at a kennel, check to make sure they have a firm evacuation plan in case you are unable to come home to retrieve your pet.

Identification and Control: Take not just one but two collar and leash sets— with tags that include identification and emergency information, as above. Your pet should wear one set at all times— and make sure the collars fit properly. Better yet, consider getting permanent identification such as micro-chipping and including your pet in a reliable recovery database. Just remember to keep your contact information up to date.

One last evacuation task: If you have a sticker on the door or window of your house to notify first responders that pets are inside, be sure to take it off or write “Pets Evacuated” on it so that no one breaks your door down trying to rescue pets that aren’t in danger.

Health and Important Records: Place copies of your pet’s adoption papers, registration information, medical records, and vaccination documents in a waterproof baggie. You will definitely need them–especially the immunization records—if you have to board your pets in a shelter or at a vet’s office.

Please prepare and protect your family and your pets this hurricane season—and every season of the year. If you’d like more information on planning for your pet, please call or visit the FFSC or the LA SPCA. There’s also lots of great information on the LA SPCA website and at

Extra Precaution: Take a picture of you and your pet together. If you become separated from your pet, the photo

www.ready.gov.

NOT EXACTLY CUDDLY, OR ROADSIDE ATTRACTION: It can jump 3-4 feet straight in the air when sufficiently frightened; it was named the state small mammal of Texas in 1995; it can delay birth for up to two years after fertilization; and when it does give birth always delivers four identical young–the only mammal known to do so. WHAT IS IT? (Answer on page 4) 3

We’re here for you!

August 2009 SUN

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The Louisiana official state dog is the glassyeyed Catahoula Leopard Dog, the only breed of dog native to the state. The hound sports a spotted or mottled coat and is a diligent hunter and loyal family companion.

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4 Jam Session

1130-1230 NAS

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Stress Management 0900-1100 NAS Employment Workshop 0830-1230 NAS NOSC Rm 209

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Sponsor Training 1000-1100 NAS

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arch Job Se sion s e Jam S 230 1 0 113 2 ldg 73 NSA B

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Deployment & IA Discussion Group 1000 NAS

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Active Parenting of Teens (1st of 3 Sessions) 1000–1300 NSA

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Deployment & IA Discussion Group 1000 NAS

Anger Management 0900-1100 NAS

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Smooth Move 1000-1100 NAS

Effects of Divorce on Children 0900-1100 NAS

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$peaking of Money. . . 1745-2000 NSA Chapel

TAP Pre-Retirement Workshop 17-21 Aug @ NAS

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Deployment Workshop 25-27 Aug 1100-1300 NAS NEWCOMER’S ORIENTATION 25 & 26 Aug 0800-1600 NAS

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Effects of Domestic Violence on Children 0900-1100 NAS

28 Baby Shower Expo 0900-1400 NSA

29 Info Fair 1000-1400 NAS

WHAT IS IT? (from page 3) the nine-banded armadillo, whose name in Spanish means, “little armored one.”

For more information about these classes or anything found in this newsletter, please call 678-2647 or 7569. 4