ACS Newsletter September 2012

1. Family September 2012
Times
Hispanic Heritage Month
http://hispanicheritagemonth.gov/about/
http://racerelations.about.com/od/diversitymatters/a/Celebrating-Hispanic-Heritage
Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage
Month from September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the
histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens
whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean September 15 - October 15 2012
and Central and South America.
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month
The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week
under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by
Latino community, and music venues host concerts with Latino
President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period
performers. In addition, cuisine, crafts and other goods with
starting on September 15 and ending on October 15. It was
Latin American origins are displayed during festivals that
enacted into law on August 17, 1988.
coincide with Hispanic Heritage Month. The cultural observance
also marks a good time to partner with groups that serve the
The day of September 15 is significant because it is the
Latino community by volunteering or fundraising for them.
anniversary of independence for Latin American countries
Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and
Tracking Hispanic Progress Latinos have made enormous
Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their
progress since 1968, when the federal government first
independence days on September 16 and September 18,
recognized Hispanic Heritage Week and Latinos joined blacks,
respectively.
Asians and other groups in the fight for civil rights. With a
population of 50.5 million, Latinos now constitute the largest
Who Does Hispanic Heritage Month Honor? Hispanic
minority group in the U.S., giving them political leverage and
Heritage Month recognizes the achievements, customs and
influence in a number of other areas. Despite these gains, the
legacies of U.S. citizens with roots in Latin America,
Latino community still seeks to make economic and educational
South/North America. The people in these regions fall into
advances. Just 14 percent of Hispanics age 25 and up were
different racial categories, partake in different traditions,
college graduates in 2010. Also, the U.S. economic recession
practice different religions and even speak different
has hit Latinos particularly hard. A study by the Pew Research
languages—Spanish, English, Catalan, Nahuatl and more.
Center found that Latinos lost more wealth during the economic
Given what a diverse group of people Hispanic Heritage
downturn than any other group, with the median wealth of
Month honors, it’s important not to generalize about them.
Hispanic households falling by 66 percent from 2005 to 2009.
Furthermore, as of August 2011, Latinos had the second highest
Hispanic Heritage Month Events Hispanic Heritage Month
unemployment rate of all major U.S. ethnic groups at 11
celebrations run the gamut. Museums exhibit the work of
percent.
Hispanic artists. Community groups screen films about the
The good news for Latinos is that they’re making gains in the
In This Issue business world and at the ballot booth. Fifty percent of Hispanics
Director’s Corner………………..…………………..2 voted in the 2008 presidential election, up from 47 percent in
Newcomers’.....………………..….....................…....2 2004. The U.S. Census Bureau also reports that the number of
ACS Directory..….……………...……......................2 Hispanic-owned businesses rose by 43.7 percent from 2002 to
AFAP/AFTB/MRT.…......…..………..…………......3 2007. Hispanic-owned businesses are especially leaving a mark
FAP-Substance Impact………...……........................4 in wholesale trade, construction and retail trade, with nearly 51
FRP-Car Buying Tips………….................................5
percent of Hispanic-owned business yielding profits in these
EFMP/SOS/MFLC………..........................................6
ERP-Career Expo…………………............................7
fields.
Relo/Mob/Dep….………….......................................8
Back to School Safety……………….....................…9 Given that the Census Bureau predicts Hispanics to make up 30
Conflict Resolution……………………...................10 percent of the U.S. population by 2050, there’s little doubt that
Calendar..…………….……………………….........11 Latinos will make strides that leave a permanent imprint on U.S.
culture and society.

2. Director’s Corner
I would like to take this opportunity, to thank everyone for your dedication, and participation in this
year’s Run for the Fallen. It was a great success, and it could not have happen without your support and
efforts.
Fall season is upon us and ACS has a few events lined up for the month of September. On the 5th we are hosting a
Career Expo, held at the Sports &Fitness Center, 1000-1400, on the 15th we have scheduled, Apple Picking and
Hayride for our Waiting Families and the 27th is our Monthly Newcomers’ Orientation 0830-1200.
Army Community Service’s continual goal to provide excellent customer service to all our Service members
and their families. If you have any questions or concerns, my door is always open for you. We look forward
to meeting you.
Happy Labor Day and have a beautiful autumn season,
Carmen E. Borrero, ACS Director
ACS Programs & Staff
ACS Director Family Advocacy/EFMP
Carmen Borrero Vincent DiMaira
718-630-4457 718-630-4460
Army Emergency Relief Financial Readiness
718-630-4754 718-630-4754
Army Family Front Desk/Information
Team Building
John Mapes
& Referral
Magda Lawrence
New to Ft. Hamilton?
718-630-4498 718-630-4754
Attend Our Newcomer’s Orientation!
Army Family Action Plan Lending Closet
John Mapes
718-630-4498
Madeline Pastorella
718-630-4754 September 27, 2012
Army Volunteer Corps
Joseph Gamez
Relocation Readiness
Madeline Pastorella
8:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.
718-630-4756 718-630-4462
Deployment Readiness Sexual Assault &
ACS Conference Room
Madeline Pastorella
718-630-4462
Victim Advocacy
Vincent DiMaira
Bldg. 137-C Poly Place, 1st Floor
718-630-4460
Employment Readiness Followed by a complimentary lunch
Joseph Gamez Survivor Outreach at the Fort Hamilton Community Club!
718-630-4756 Services
718-630-4754
Please Call to reserve your seat
(718) 630-4754

3. Army Family Action Plan
AFAP…Voice of the Community!
•Do you have a great idea?
•Do you see something that needs to be changed?
•Then here's your chance!
The Army Family Action Plan (AFAP) solicits input from Soldiers
and Families. This process allows Soldiers and Families to express
their feelings in regards to Military life and how they are affected.
AFAP seeks to find solutions and when appropriate, forwards issues
up the chain of command.
If you have an idea which you believe would be beneficial
please contact the AFAP Program Manager at 718-630-4498
or by email john.e.mapes2.civ@mail.mil
Master Resiliency Training (MRT) Army Family Team Building
Learn, Grow, Lead
The AFTB mission is to educate and
Join us as we continue the MRT series empower members of the military
community to develop skills and
of training. It’s not too late to join our
behaviors that strengthens self-reliance,
classes. Open to all Military, Family
promote retention and enhance readiness.
Members and DoD Civilians.
AFTB strives to provide pro-active,
Army Community Service Center forward thinking support for today's
137 C Poly Place, 1st Floor families and ensure the strength
of tomorrow's Army.
Call 718 630-4498 or e-mail
john.e.mapes2.civ@mail.mil
For more information
for more information.
please call 718-630-4498

4. The impact of adult
substance abuse on children
Article from http://www.treatmentsolutions.com/effects-of-substance-abuse-
on-children-in-the-family/
Drug and alcohol abuse is a large problem for adults in
irrational and unable to provide the care that a child
our world today. But it is probably an even bigger
needs. Families that suffer with substance abuse are
problem for the children of today who are being raised
more at risk for domestic violence, mental illness,
by alcoholics or drug users. These children have to
divorce, and sexual and physical abuse than other
endure a family life that is often unpredictable and
families. These issues are very detrimental and can lead
chaotic, which can lead to many problems later in life.
to children with depression, anxiety, and suicidal
To think that these children have their whole future
thoughts. Children in these situations may be withdrawn
ahead of them should cause much concern about how
and have trouble bonding with others. Often they feel
they are being raised today.
that the problems of the family are their fault or that it is
their job to conceal the problem, and this can lead to low
Family Life
self esteem, lack of desire to perform well in school, or
Many parents that abuse drugs or alcohol will treat their
fear of failure. It would be difficult for these children to
families differently on different days, depending on their
make friends because of the fear that someone in the
level of sobriety at the time. Often the mood swings and
outside world will find out about their secret, or will
changes in parenting that these parents exhibit will
witness the chaos firsthand.
confuse the child or make them insecure. Inconsistent
care by a parent can lead to a child that either has to
A vicious cycle
grow up quickly and assume adult responsibilities, or
If a child is living with an alcoholic or drug user, the
one that rebels and gives up trying to do well in school
child is likely to develop a warped sense of normal
or life. Children in these homes need to constantly be
when it comes to using these substances. They may
prepared for a parent that is high or drunk, one that is
know that their parent drinks too much, or does drugs,
but over time, the child may not know what other
FAMILY ADVOCACY families are like, or how many drinks a regular person is
PROGRAM (FAP)
expected to have in a day. Children of alcoholics are 4
times more likely to become alcoholics themselves,
which leads these families into a cycle that is hard to
break. Fathers drink to deal with stress in their life, and
FAP is dedicated when their children get older, they have learned that the
to Spousal & Child way to handle stress is to drink.
Abuse Prevention, Dealing with the issue
Education, The good news is that children of alcoholics and drug
Prompt Reporting, abusers often develop an inner strength that helps them
Investigation, & get through the tough times at home. With much love
and encouragement from a sober parent, another
Intervention relative, or even a social worker or teacher, these
children can go on to live happy, successful lives. And
To access the Family of course, the best scenario is if the addict in the family
Advocacy Program, please receives treatment and overcomes the problem, and then
contact Vincent DiMaira at the child can continue their life and work on a brighter
718-630-4460
future.

5. Car Buying Tips
Article from http://www.cars.com/go/advice/shopping/quickStart.jsp
Financial Readiness Program
offering a significantly lower amount than what
you expect to pay.
Prior to buying a new car, check your credit report Go to dealerships to price the vehicle you want -
first. Go to one of the credit report agencies on never look at it and buy it the same day! This will
line www.experian.com, www.equifax.com, or allow you to see what other dealers have to offer.
www. transunion.com. If there are any
discrepancies on your report, ensure you get them Negotiating the Interest Rate. Don’t be afraid to
corrected prior to obtaining financing for your jump back in your chair when you’re shown the
new vehicle. interest rate on your loan offer, even if you feel
comfortable with it. Act like you’ve just seen a
Be sure you have a realistic budget that includes snake. Tell them that the interest rate is much
the ―new‖ car payment and insurance rates. It’s a higher than you would ever want to pay and if you
good idea to know in advance that you can afford want to go the extra mile, tell them that you almost
the monthly payments. feel insulted with a rate ―offer‖ that high
Calculate the amount of loan you can obtain (i.e. If the vehicle checks out, set up a buying
www.bankrate.com) as this will help you obtain a appointment with a time limit for the sale. If they
―low monthly payment‖. can’t sell you the car in 30 minutes to an hour,
consider walking off the lot!
Research vehicles that are in your price range and
become a ―subject matter expert‖ on that
particular vehicle.
Financial Readiness
Program
Get pre-approved financing at a credit union or
bank. By arranging your financing approval first,
you will have a significant advantage when
shopping for a car. The down payment amount,
monthly payments and interest rates won’t be an
unknown. You’ll know exactly how much car you
can afford, what your monthly payment limit is
based on your income, as well as have a good idea
of what model year and price range to be looking
for.
Important tip to remember. The first offer is
ALWAYS much higher than what the dealership
will take. They’re just trying to raise your
expectations of what you’ll have to pay. They For more information
want you to negotiate down to retail price, so their
first offer is usually above retail price. You can Please call 718-630-4754
over come this by lowering their expectations by

6. Prevention
Sexual assault is a crime. Sexual assault is defined as
intentional sexual contact, characterized by use of force, Losing a loved one is one of the most difficult
physical threat or abuse of authority or when the victim
things anyone can go through. In its
does not or cannot consent. Sexual assault includes:
commitment to the Families of the Fallen, the
Rape - Sexual intercourse by force and without consent. United States Army has developed a
comprehensive Survivor Outreach Services
Nonconsensual Sodomy - Oral or anal sex by force and (SOS) Program.
without consent.
The mission of the Survivor Outreach Services
Indecent Assault - Unwanted, inappropriate sexual (SOS) is to provide long-term support to
contact or fondling. Families of our Fallen Soldiers by offering
assistance with any concerns or issues,
Carnal Knowledge - Sexual intercourse with a child providing information on services and
under age 16.
programs, and connecting Families to outreach
organizations both inside and outside the
Attempts to commit these acts.
Department of Defense.
If you are a victim of a sexual assault, please contact the
ACS Assault Response Coordinator at 718-630-4460 or If you would like more information, please call
347-452-4302 24/7. 718-630-4754
NEED TO TALK? Exceptional Family
Military & Family Life Consultants Member
Help with the Stress of Military Life Program (EFMP)
EFMP is a mandatory enrollment program
that works with other military and civilian
agencies to provide comprehensive and
coordinated medical, educational, housing,
community support, and personnel services to
Families with special needs.
For any questions concerning the Exceptional
Family Member Program, please contact
Vincent DiMaira, Family Advocacy Program
Military Family Life Counselors (MFLCs) Manager at 718-630-4460
are mental health specialist who
provide confidential, short-term, non- To enroll your Family Member in EFMP,
medical counseling to Military families. contact Nola Francois at Keller Army
Community Hospital at West Point.
To access MFLC services please call: Phone: 845-938-6881
(718) 757-9408

7. We want YOU – our Transitioning U.S. Military
Service Members, Veterans & Military Spouses to
JOIN US
Wednesday
September 05, 2012
10:00am – 2:00pm
Sports &Fitness Center
402 McArthur Road
Brooklyn, NY 11252
Free to Job Seekers  Meet with top companies to discuss career opportunities  Learn
how to advance your career by meeting with top colleges and universities
To Register and obtain a list of companies exhibiting at this Career Expo Visit:
http://www.military.com/career-expo/2012-ft-hamilton-career-fair-2/
the largest online veteran job board and military community.
For questions or concerns call Army Community Service at 718-630-4754

8. Waiting Families Relocation Program
Hearts Apart Support Group eSponsorship Application & Training
3rd Saturday, Monthly
Training Sponsors to Assist Relocating
Service Members & Their Families
Sponsorship Training Available
on the following date:
September 17, 2012
Apple Picking & Hay Ride 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
September 15, 2012 ACS, Conference Room
10:00am to 4:00 pm Building 137C, 1st Floor
Meet at ACS, Bldg. 137C, 1st Floor
Please call to reserve your seat!! For more information contact
Phone: 718-630-4462 Madeline Pastorella 718-630-4754/4462
Loan Closet Relocation Readiness Program
Need to borrow something?
Immigration & Naturalization
Visit Our Lending Closet
Dishes, pots, pans, & baby strollers,
Assistance:
sleeping mats, & more!
Provided to Active Duty,
Retirees, Service members on
Title 10 Orders & Dependants
This service offers information on
Immigration and Naturalization
policies, procedures and forms.
Fort Hamilton
Army Community Service Due to the high demand of this
Relocation Readiness Program service, appointments are preferred.
Bldg. 137C Poly Place, 1st Floor To schedule an appointment call
718-630-4462 (718) 630-4462

9. Back to School
Safety tips for motorists
Article form www.nsc.org/safety
Information & Referral
Sharing the road safely with school buses: School buses
are one of the safest forms of transportation on the road
today. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration, riding a bus to school is 13 times
Generally, pedestrians have the right-of-way at all
safer than riding in a passenger vehicle and 10 times safer
intersections; however, regardless of the rules of the road or
than walking to school. The reality of school bus safety is
right-of-way, you as a driver are obligated to exercise great
that more children are hurt outside the bus than inside as
care and extreme caution to avoid striking pedestrians.
passengers. Most of the children who lose their lives in bus-
related crashes are pedestrians, four to seven years old, who
 Drivers should not block the crosswalk when stopped at a
are hit by the bus or by motorists illegally passing a stopped
red light or waiting to make a turn. Do not stop with a portion
school bus. For this reason, it is necessary to know the
of your vehicle over the crosswalk. Blocking the crosswalk
proper laws and procedures for sharing the road safely with
forces pedestrians to go around your vehicle and puts them in a
school buses:
dangerous situation.
 All 50 states have a law making it illegal to pass a school
 In a school zone when a warning flasher or flashers are
bus that is stopped to load or unload children.
blinking, you must stop to yield the right-of-way to a
pedestrian crossing the roadway within a marked crosswalk or
 School buses use yellow flashing lights to alert motorists
at an intersection with no marked crosswalk.
that they are preparing to stop to load or unload children.
Red flashing lights and an extended stop sign arm signals to
 Always stop when directed to do so by a school patrol sign,
motorists that the bus is stopped and children are getting on
school patrol officer or designated crossing guard.
or off the bus.
 Children are the least predictable pedestrians and the most
 All 50 states require that traffic in both directions stop
difficult to see. Take extra care to look out for children not
on undivided roadways when students are entering or
only in school zones, but also in residential areas, playgrounds
exiting a school bus.
and parks.
 While state laws vary on what is required on a divided
 Don’t honk your horn, rev your engine or do anything to
roadway, in all cases, traffic behind the school bus
rush or scare a pedestrian in front of your car, even if you have
(traveling in the same direction) must stop.
the legal right-of-way.
 The area 10 feet around a school bus is where children
are in the most danger of being hit. Stop your car far enough
from the bus to allow children the necessary space to safely
enter and exit the bus.
Army Volunteer Corps
 Be alert. Children are unpredictable. Children walking to
Lend a hand….make a difference
or from their bus are usually very comfortable with their Meet New People
surroundings. This makes them more likely to take risks, Become Active in Your Community
ignore hazards or fail to look both ways when crossing the Gain New Job Skills
street. Feel Good About Yourself
Enhance Job Opportunities
 Never pass a school bus on the right. It is illegal and Gain Experience
could have tragic consequences. Network
Sharing the road safely with child pedestrians: All
drivers need to recognize the special safety needs of
pedestrians, especially those that are children. Young, TO REGISTER please call
elderly, disabled and intoxicated pedestrians are the most (718) 630-4756
frequent victims in auto-pedestrian collisions.

10. Conflict Resolution Skills
Building the Skills That Can Turn Conflicts
into Opportunities
http://www.helpguide.org/mental/eq8_conflict_resolution.htm
Employment Readiness Program
Conflict is a normal part of healthy relationships. After
all, two people can’t be expected to agree on everything
at all times. Learning how to deal with conflict – rather
than avoiding it – is crucial. When conflict is
mismanaged, it harms the relationship, but when
handled in a respectful, positive way, conflict provides
an opportunity for growth, ultimately strengthening the conflicting need for safety and continuity to explore and
bond between two people. By learning these skills for take risks. You frequently see this conflict between
conflict resolution, you can keep your personal and toddlers and their parents. The child’s need is to explore, so
professional relationships strong and growing. the street or the cliff meets a need. But the parents’ need is
to protect the child’s safety, so limiting exploration
Understanding conflict in relationships becomes a bone of contention between them.
Conflict arises from differences. It occurs whenever
people disagree over their values, motivations, It is important to acknowledge that both parties’ needs play
perceptions, ideas, or desires. Sometimes these important roles in the long-term success of most
differences look trivial, but when a conflict triggers relationships, and each deserves respect and consideration.
strong feelings, a deep personal need is at the core of the In personal relationships, a lack of understanding about
problem, such as a need to feel safe and secure, a need differing needs can result in distance, arguments, and
to feel respected and valued, or a need for greater break-ups. In workplace conflicts, differing needs are often
closeness and intimacy. at the heart of bitter disputes.
Conflicts arise from differing needs When you can recognize the legitimacy of conflicting
Everyone needs to feel understood, nurtured, and needs and become willing to examine them in an
supported, but the ways in which these needs are met environment of compassionate understanding, it opens
vary widely. Differing needs for feeling comfortable and pathways to creative problem solving, team building, and
safe create some of the most severe challenges in our improved relationships. For entire article visit:
personal and professional relationships. Think about the www.helpguide.org/mental/eq8_conflict_resolution.htm
Healthy and unhealthy ways of managing and resolving conflict
Unhealthy responses to conflict: Healthy responses to conflict:
An inability to recognize and respond to the things The capacity to recognize and respond to the
that matter to the other person things that matter to the other person
Explosive, angry, hurtful, and resentful reactions Calm, non-defensive, and respectful reactions
The withdrawal of love, resulting in rejection, A readiness to forgive and forget, and to move past
isolation, shaming, and fear of abandonment the conflict without holding resentments or anger
An inability to compromise or see the other person’s The ability to seek compromise and avoid
side punishing
The fear and avoidance of conflict; the expectation of A belief that facing conflict head is the best thing
bad outcomes for both sides

11. Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1
2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Labor Day ACS HOURS Career Expo ACS HOURS ACS HOURS
ACS Closed 0800-1630 1000-1400 0800-1630 0800-1630
Computer Lab Sports & Fitness Computer Lab Computer Lab
0800-1600 Center Bldg. 402 0800-1600 0800-1600
9 10 11 12 13 14 15
ACS HOURS ACS HOURS ACS HOURS ACS HOURS ACS HOURS Waiting Families
0800-1630 0800-1630 0800-1630 0800-1630 0800-1630 Apple Picking
Computer Lab Computer Lab Computer Lab Computer Lab Computer Lab 1000-1600 Meet
0800-1600 0800-1600 0800-1600 0800-1600 0800-1600 @ ACS Conf. Rm.
16 17 18 19 20 21 22
ACS HOURS ACS HOURS ACS HOURS ACS HOURS ACS HOURS
0800-1630 0800-1630 0800-1630 0800-1630 0800-1630
Computer Lab Computer Lab Computer Lab Computer Lab Computer Lab
0800-1600 0800-1600 0800-1600 0800-1600 0800-1600
23 24 25 26 27 28 29
ACS HOURS ACS HOURS ACS HOURS Newcomer’s ACS HOURS
0800-1630 0800-1630 0800-1630 0830-1130 0800-1630
Computer Lab Computer Lab Computer Lab ACS Conf Rm. Computer Lab
0800-1600 0800-1600 0800-1600 0800-1600
30