Garrison celebrates America with families

Free skating and crafts equaled family fun at the U.S. Army Garrison Kaiserslautern’s Celebrate America event July 3 at the Skate Express on Vogelweh.

***image1***This event was a part of Family Fun Nights held by the garrison’s Army Community Services every month.

“It gives families an opportunity to let their hair down and enjoy being a family,” said Selinda Torbert, the garrison’s outreach coordinator, who plans all of the Family Fun Nights. “It’s a chance to bring their children and have some fun.”

Close to 60 parents and children attended the three-hour event. Several of the garrison’s Better Opportunities for Servicemembers were also there to help with crafts and with skating. Spec. Gregg Sharkey, from the garrison’s Military Personnel Detachment, and Sid Kuhn, from Headquarters, U.S. Air Forces in Europe, were constantly on the rink showing children, ages 3 and up, basic and advance skating moves.

“It’s been ages since I’ve skated, but this is so much fun,” said Mr. Kuhn, when he was finally allowed to take a break.

 This was the first Family Fun Night for Tech. Sgt. Rachel Robinson, from American Forces Network Kaiserslautern, and her two sons – Derek, 9, and 8-month-old Desmond.

“It was more than I thought it would be,” said Sergeant Robinson, whose husband, Tech. Sgt. Damon Robinson is currently deployed. “There were so many activities and people, and tons of stuff to do. It was great.”

***image2***Sergeant Robinson said she didn’t realize that there were so many services and programs available to her and her family through ACS.

“That’s why we have these events to let family and servicemembers know all the programs and services we have for them in the KMC,” said Ms. Torbert, explaining why there is always an information booth at these events.

Crafts at the event included finger-painting, drawing, coloring and making macaroni jewelry. Six-year-old Jordan Green spent half the night making patriotic paintings using cutout stars. “Yes,” was his answer when asked if he was having a good time.

The next Family Fun Night will be a “Back to School Blast” 5 to 7 p.m. Aug. 16 at the Kid’s Zone on Pulaski Barracks.

For more information about the garrison’s Family Fun Nights, call Ms. Torbert at 489-7521.