In This Issue
KCCC Open House
Children's Art Contest
CF Appreciation
Message from the Ombudsman
Recently Arrived in BC?
Deployment Tip
Employment Tip
Coming in May
Children's Services
Youth Services
Wellness Wednesdays
Prevention, Support & Intervention
Deployment Services
Employment & Education
Youth Only - Intro to Weight/Cardio Fitness Facilities
 

Open House - French Immersion Early Learning Programs 

French Immersion staff will be available on Wednesday, April 18 from 4:30 pm - 6:00 pm for parents interested in getting information about the French Immersion Preschool or the full day Early Learning Program.

 

For more information, contact Kinnikinnik Child Care Centre at 250-339-8032.

Children's Art Contest - Phase 2 

 
The contest is now open to all Canadian youth up to the age of 18 years old.

Fay Maddison, author, artist and military spouse has written the first early reader in a series of three, called "Twiglet's First Birthday".

All Canadian youth are invited to sumbit their art work. Selected art works will be reproduced and published in 1 or more of the 3 books.

For more information visit NCR's MFRC website or Natasha's Wood Foundation website.
 
Sharpen your pencils
and be creative!

CF Appreciation

 

Become a member of the CF Appreciation Program and obtain discounts on a wide range of goods, services offered locally, nationally and internationally.

 

Join the program today to receive your membership card!

 

Reconnaissance FC

 

Devenez membre du programme de Reconnaissance FC pour obtenir des rabais sur une vaste gamme de produits et services offerts par des entreprises locales, nationales et internationnalles.

 

Joignez le programme maintenant pour obtenir votre carte de membre!

From the Ombudsman Office - Liz Hoffmann Commendation for Complaint Resolution

 

The Liz Hoffman Memorial Commendation for Complaint Resolution serves to recognize Canadian Forces members, civilian employees and family members who go the extra mile and exceed expectations in helping their colleagues resolve a difficult problem or in bringing about positive and lasting change to the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Forces.

 

Anyone in the Defence community can submit a nomination directly to the Ombudsman Office. All that is required is a letter or e-mail explaining how an individual has gone above and beyond the call of duty to bring positive change.

 

Nomination period closes on Thursday, May 31

Additional information can be found on the Ombudsman website

Recently Arrived in BC?

 

If you are enrolled in the Public Service Health Care Plan for drug and medical benefits, you will need to register your family in the BC Fair PharmaCare Plan in order for SUNLIFE to properly complete your future claims.

To register phone: 1-800-663-7100.

For more information, visit the Ministry of Health's Website.

 

Récemment arrivé en C.-B.?

 

Il est nécessaire que vous et votre famille vous inscriviez au programme "BC Fair PharmaCare" de manière à ce que SUNLIFE soit en mesure de traiter vos réclamations futures. 

Pour vous inscrire, composez le 1-800-663-7100

Pour plus d'information, visitez le site web du ministère de la Santé.


 

Deployment Tip

 

Have the Difficult Conversations 

Many families know little about their member's work life and career goals. Obtaining the qualifications needed for promotion often means extended separations due to the requirement to complete specific courses or to gain deployment-related experience. The military lifestyle, for a loved one unprepared for the sacrifices they may have to make, can come as a shock. Spouses who openly discuss the member's military goals will have their best chance at keeping the relationship strong in the face of multiple absences and postings.

 

 

 

Employment Tip

 

When Change Shakes your Employment Foundation

Whether you're facing a posting or not, changes happen in the employment sector that can shake your foundation. It is advisable to construct a career plan that is mindful of the potential for business or occupational restructuring and transformations in the labour force. The new job market in our unsettled economy calls for viewing a career not as a lifetime commitment to one employer, but as selling services and skills to a series of employers who need contracts completed. Come see an employment counsellor at the Comox MFRC and update your career plan for the future.

Coming in May

 

Parenting & Children

  • Child Care Provider Info Session
  • A Morning Together - Mother's Day Craft

Deployment Services

  • PSSST - Personal Safety Solo Spouse Training 

Employment

  • Excel Level 2 

Francophone

  • Franco Femmes

Prevention, Support & Intervention

  • Yak & Gobble for Women

Quality of Life & Wellness Wednesday

  • Glitter Card Making
  • Spa Get-A-Way
  • BBQ: From Rubs to Sauces
  • Java Talk

 And much more!!



 
TOPHappening this month 

Spring Break Camps at KCCC, NEW Homework Club (11-18 yrs), NEW Teen Résumé Workshop (13-18 yrs), Youth Community Day (13-18 yrs), Yak & Gobble for Women, Excel Level 1 & 2, NEW Introduction to Feng Shui and more!


Easter Closure

Comox MFRC offices will be closed on Friday, April 6 and Monday, April 9 for Easter. We reopen on Tuesday, April 10 at 8:00 am. In case of emergency, including child care needs, please contact Wing Operations at 250-339-8231 and ask to speak with the duty chaplain.

 

Congé de Pâques 

Le CRFM de Comox sera fermé le vendredi 6 avril et le lundi 9 avril pour le congé de Pâques. Nous ré-ouvrons le mardi 10 avril à 8:00 am. En cas d'urgence incluant un besoin en service de garde, veuillez communiquer avec les Opérations de la Base au 250-339-8231, et demandez à parler à l'aumônier de garde.


Children's Services

 

Kinnikinnik Spring Break Camps

Monday - Friday

7:00 am - 5:30 pm / $27 daily per child

  Closed on Friday, April 6 and Monday, April 9  

Kinnikinnik Child Care Centre is offering special activities for school-age children while the SD#71 elementary schools are closed for Spring Break. To register, contact KCCC at 250-339-8032.

 

Parents N' Tots (5 Yrs & under)

Mondays & Fridays / 9:00 am - 11:30 am 

FREE - GRATUIT
Closed on Friday, April 6 and on Monday, April 9
Drop in and enjoy a morning full of activities, including crafts, circle time and gross motor play.

 

Creative Kids Casual Child Care 

Spring Break Schedule

Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays

9:00 am - 12:00 pm 

Regular Schedule resumes on Tuesday, April 17

 

$4 per hour or TAB

A casual child care option for children from infancy to
5 years. Notes: A minimum booking of 1 hour is required. Payment required at time of registration.

  

Saturday Play (0-12 yrs)
$15 per session or 4 TAB hours
To register phone 250-339-8032 

Closed on Saturday, April 7 

Use this block of 4 hours to get tasks done or just relax while your children are cared for in a fun and safe environment. Notes: Priority registration to deployment families until Wednesday each week. Every Wednesday, any unreserved spaces are made available for other military families to book on a first come first served basis.

Youth Services

 

Kids Club (6 - 8 Yrs) 

Mondays / 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Youth Centre

FREE - Members / $2 - Non-Members

  No Kids' Club Drop-in on April 2 & 9
Children participate in organized activities such as games, music, crafts and other fun activities in a safe environment that encourages socializing with peers. New this year: Birthday month cupcakes! We'll celebrate everyone who has a birthday in that month with cupcakes! Notes: The Healthy Choices canteen is available. Max purchase allowance of $1 per night per child for one light snack and a juice.

 

PreTeen Drop-in Nights (9 - 12 Yrs) 

Wednesdays / 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Youth Centre
FREE - Members / $2 - Non-Members
  No PreTeen Drop-in Night on April 4 & 11
Kids interact through various activities, indoor & outdoor games, and social events. The program helps preteens transition into the teen program by providing them with opportunities to independently organize some of their own activities for the evening. Notes: The Healthy Choices canteen is available. Maximum purchase allowance of $2 per night.

 

Teen Drop-in Nights (13 - 18 Yrs)
Fridays / 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Youth Centre
FREE - Members / $2 - Non-Members
  No Teen Drop-in Night on April 6 & 13
Come hang out at the 19 Wing Youth Centre, also known as "The Mox" and enjoy our big screen TV, XBOX 360, PS2, computers, ping pong/pool table, air hockey & foosball. We also have a fully stocked art room for those who wish to express their many artistic talents.

** NEW ** Homework Club (11 - 18 Yrs)
Every Tuesday starting April 17
3:30 pm - 4:30 pm
FREE
Need a little help with your homework or just a quiet place to study away from home? Drop into The MOX on Tuesdays with all your stuff and the Youth Services staff will help you with your assignments. Note: The MOX is open for youth seeking help with homework only, NOT drop-ins

 

Community Day (13 - 18 Yrs)
Friday, April 27 / 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm
FREE / GRATUIT

Give your time and get to know some interesting people as we volunteer at the seniors' center and enjoy a meal out afterwards at a locally owned restaurant. Registration required.

 

** NEW ** Résumé Workshop (13 - 18 Yrs)
Friday April 27 & May 4
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Youth Centre

FREE / GRATUIT
Get a jump start on your job seeking skills and résumé to get a great summer job! We will be offering two, free, 1-hour job workshops during our teen drop in night. Registration required.

QoLQuality of Life & Wellness Wednesdays  

 

Java Talk Connections 

Wednesday, April 18 / 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Youth Centre / FREE - GRATUIT 

Please join us for a social / craft get-together. Come meet new or old friends and, if the mood strikes you, bring along a project that never seems to get completed! A great opportunity to network or just relax and have fun. There's a different theme/topic each session.
 
** NEW ** Introduction to Feng Shui
Tuesday, April 24 / 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Conference Room
$15 Military / $20 Non-Military
We will explore the 6000 year old practice of Feng Shui, what it means, how it works, and how you can use it to benefit your family. Bring the birthdates of each member of your family. Facilitator: Selley Wright.

PSIPrevention, Support & Intervention

 

Yak and Gobble for Women!
Wednesday, April 25 & May 23
9:30 am - 11:30 am
Conference Room / Multipurpose Room
FREE

This is a great opportunity for women to come together to discuss current issues and topics while enjoying a nutritious breakfast. Come listen to guest speakers and receive great information! Limited child care available

 

Sessions Topic:

April 25 - "Honouring the Authentic Self"

May 23 - Self-Care Day! 

 

Yak & Gobble pour femme
Mercredis 25 avril & 23 mai

9:30 am - 11:30 am
Salle de conférence / Salle polyvalente
GRATUIT

Voici une superbe opportunité pour femmes seulement de discuter de problématiques et de sujets actuels tout en partageant un délicieux déjeuner. Venez écouter nos présentateurs invités et repartez pleine de ressources et d'information. Places limitées en service de garde disponibles.


Sujets des sessions:

25 avril - Honorer sa personne
23 mai - Journée de bien-être

DeploymentFamily Separation & Reunion 

 

Deployment Writing Circle
Ongoing - please call for details
Deployment Centre
FREE - GRATUIT
Our writing circle is an ongoing group that welcomes new participants anytime! No experience is necessary - just a desire to write, explore the deployment experience, and enjoy the company and experiences of others who know what you're going through. Together we'll explore ways you can share your work (if you want to) by reading aloud, publishing for family, or submitting to publish in a book, magazine or online. Limited child care subsidy available.
 
Take-A-Break Child Care for Deployment Families
Families whose CF member is absent for 30 days or more may be eligible for up to 8 hours of free child care each month. Contact the Deployment Support Team at 250-339-8211, local 8310 or 6694 to apply.

Prenez-une-pause pour familles déployées
Si votre conjoint(e) est déployé(e) pour une période de plus de 30 jours, vous êtes en droit d'utiliser ce service qui vous donne 8 heures de garde gratuites par mois. Pour vous inscrire, communiquez avec l'équipe du Soutien au déploiement au 250-339-8211, poste 6694.
EmploymentEmployment & Education 

 

Teen Summer Employment Workshop
Wednesday, April 11 / 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Conference Room
FREE Military / $15 Non-Military
What's the trick to getting summer work? Get started early! Don't wait until the last minute to prepare for a job hunt. This one-day interactive workshop will help you prepare for that "perfect job". You will create a resume, learn how to network, and practice interview skills; all in preparation for our empolyer panel. You must be 15+ years old. Bring your own lunch. Facilitator: May Reimer CCDP, Employment & Education Services

Atelier de recherche d'emploi d'été pour ados
Mercredi 11 avril / 9:00 am à 4:00 pm
Salle de conférence
Gratuit militaire / 15$ non militaire
Quel est le truc pour trouver un emploi d'été? Commencer tôt ses recherches! N'attendez pas à la dernière minute. Cet atelier d'un jour vous aidera à vous préparer pour votre emploi de rêve. Venez préparer votre CV, apprendre comment chercher un emploi et surtout comment se préparer aux entrevues. Tout ça pour vous préparer pour une journée d'entrevue avec de potentiels employeurs! Offert aux jeunes de 15 ans et plus. N'oubliez pas d'apporter un lunch. Animatrice : May Reimer, CCDP, Service d'emploi et d'éducation. Note : Atelier offert en anglais seulement.
 
Excel Level 1 (3 classes)
Mon-Wed-Thu, April 16, 18 & 19 
9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Computer Lab
$70 Military - $90 Non-Military
Level 1 will introduce users to Excel 2003.
Topics include: toolbars, cut, copy, paste and paste special, multiple sheets, formatting, simple formulas, printing and options. Please bring a memory stick. Facilitator: Sharon Pickthorne, Certified Computer Facilitator
 
Excel Level 2 (3 classes)
Mon-Wed-Thu, April 30, May 2, & 3
9:15 am - 12:15 pm
Computer Lab
$70 Military / $90 Non-Military
Level 2 expands on basic skills by going more in-depth into Formatting, Charting, Database Functions, Pivot Tables, Filters and formulas such as: "If" "Iserror" and "Vlookup" functions in Excel 2003. Please bring a memory stick. Facilitator: Sharon Pickthorne, Certified Computer Facilitator
Employment19 Wing Fitness, Sport & Recreation

 

Youth Only - Introduction to the Weight/Cardio Fitness Facilities
Friday, April 13 (Pro-D-Day)
1:30 pm - 3:00 pm
$3 Rec Pass Holders / $5 Non-Members

Are you 13 - 16 years old and wanting to work out in our fantastic weight room? Session includes an introduction to the 19 Wing Weight and Cardio Facilities, instruction on safe and effective weight training for youth and some supervised workout time. Registration required. Parental permission required.

For more information, visit: www.cfcommunitygateway.com or phone 250-339-8211, local 7173.

 

Check out the advertisers in our spring In the Air 

 

Ascent Physiotherapy, p 2   -   U Store It, p 2   -   Comox Taxi, p 2   -   Welcome Wagon, p 8
Best Western Plus Hotel & Conference Centre, p 10  -  BMO, Michelle Berard, p 11  -  
Coast Realty Group, Patrick R.Guinan, p 11

ADM Holidays, p 11  -  Invis West Coast Mortgages, Laurie Tinkler & Karen Ewing, p 19  -  Dog Obedience Group, Bill Emery, p 19
North Island College, First Aid Training, p 20   -   Island Gourmet Trails, p 20   -  
Puntledge Park House, Vacation Rental, p 20

Body by Vi, p 20   -   OhSpa, The Old House Village Hotel & Spa, p 21   -   Custom Gourmet, p 23

Registered Massage Therapist, Carolyn Thir, p 23   -   Travelodge, p 39   -   Remax Realty, Brett Cairns, p 39
 

Please say hello to our advertisers when you visit them.

Links in this issue

Child care services:  http://www.familyforce.ca/sites/Comox/EN/Parents%20and%20Caregivers/Pages/EmergencyChildCare.aspx

National Capital Region MFRC: http://www.familyforce.ca/sites/NCR/EN/NewsEvents/Pages/default.aspx

Natasha's Wood Foundation: http://www.natashaswoodfoundation.com/

Children's Art Contest - Press Release: http://www.natashaswoodfoundation.com/pdf/Natashas_Wood_Press_Release_Part2.pdf

CF Appreciation Program En/Fr: http://www.cfappreciation.ca/Pages/default.aspx  

Ombudsman - Eligibility Criteria & Nomination Instructions: http://www.ombudsman.forces.gc.ca/com-mh/commenda-mh-eng.asp

Ombudsman - Online Nomination Form: http://www.ombudsman.forces.gc.ca/com-mh/nf-fn-eng.asp

Ombudsman Website: http://www.ombudsman.forces.gc.ca/

BC Fair PharmaCare Plan: http://www.health.gov.bc.ca/pharmacare/

In the Air: https://www.familyforce.ca/sites/Comox/EN/Documents/In%20the%20Air%20Guides/In_the_Air_Spring2012.pdf

Join our mailing list: http://visitor.r20.constantcontact.com/manage/optin/ea?v=001qpcI2uFx_R7XgOjLYjvhuA%3D%3D

CF Community Gateway:  http://www.cfcommunitygateway.com