RockVets Newsletter -- August 2026

Schools to End Poverty (STEP) Vietnam 2026 Trip
Beckerle Productions

Joe Beckerle, fellow 2026 STEP traveler produced this 3 minute video on their trip to Vietnam. This has been a 21 year journey. Education is the key to moving forward and our work shows it. Thank you to everyone who believes in us.

Please take a look at this short video about a recent humanitarian journey we took to to Vietnam with a group called Schools to End Poverty (STEP). STEP was started 20 years ago by two Vietnam veterans with the mission to end the cycle of poverty in that country through education. Two true American heroes!

Howard Goldin and Eddie Frank - both Vietnam Veterans and past presidents of Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter #333 in Rockland County, New York.
Video link:
https://www.facebook.com/reel/974426555426406

Thursday, August 6th, 2026: Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter #333 monthly meeting will be on Thursday, August 6th, 2026. The VVA Board of Directors meets at 6:30 p.m. and the Membership meeting starts at 7:30 p.m. The Chapter welcomes current, former and prospective VVA members to attend. The meetings are held at the Kearsing-Edwards American Legion Post #1600, 20 Station Road, Pomona, New York 10970. See below for further information and Zoom link to meeting. Check-out the Chapter's new website: http://vva333.org

Friday, August 7th, 2026: August Game Day Social and Luncheon

Please join us for our Veterans Game Day Social Luncheon on Friday, August 7th, at the auditorium located at 31 Zukor Road, New City, NY 10956. All Veterans and their spouses, caregivers, surviving spouses, and Gold Star families are welcome to join us to play BINGO, win prizes, socialize, and have fun! The Rockland County Joseph P. Dwyer Vet to Vet Peer Support Program is providing this event free of charge. Plenty of parking is available, and the auditorium is very large with ample room for attendees to spread out.

Please note: Doors open at 10:40 and we will not sign in guests before this time. Upon arrival, please head to the sign-in table to check in and receive a lunch ticket. BINGO will start at 11:00 sharp, and RSVP to Nick or Elise is required for the lunch headcount.
Nick Ambrogio, Veteran Program Support Specialist
Joseph P. Dwyer Vet to Vet Peer Support Program, Rockland County, New York
Cell: (845) 879-2408

Wednesday, August 12th, 2026: 17th Annual Schools to End Poverty (S.T.E.P.) BBQ
The S.T.E.P BBQ will be held on Wednesday, August 12th, 2026 from 4:00 - 7:30 p.m. at American Legion Post 1600, 20 Station Road in Pomona, New York 10970. Please RSVP by August 5th, 2026....call 845-352-6797 or email Howard Goldin at Goldingoose1@gmail.com. Visit their website at http://www.schoolstoendpoverty.org. Their address is S.T.E.P. Post Office Box 953, Tillman, New York 10982. S.T.E.P. is an all-volunteer nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. 100% of all donations go to the children.

Tuesday, September 1st, 2026: Registration Deadline for Entrepreneurship
A 16-week, 3-credit Intro to Entrepreneurship course at Dominican University of New York, beginning September 2, 2026 on Wednesdays 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
See further information below.

Thursday, September 3rd, 2026: Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter #333 monthly meeting will be on Thursday, September 3rd, 2026. The VVA Board of Directors meets at 6:30 p.m. and the Membership meeting starts at 7:30 p.m. The Chapter welcomes current, former and prospective VVA members to attend. The meetings are held at the Kearsing-Edwards American Legion Post #1600, 20 Station Road, Pomona, New York 10970. See below for further information and Zoom link to meeting. Check-out the Chapter's new website: http://vva333.org

Saturday, September 12th, 2026: 25th Commemoration of 9/11 at 10:00 am (local time)
REGISTER HERE:
https://www.carrytheload.org/patriot-day/
Find your cemetery here:
https://www.cem.va.gov/volunteer/National-Day-of-Service.asp
NCA in partnership with Carry The Load and Just Serve is organizing the National Day of Service to commemorate the 25th anniversary of 9/11 on Saturday, Sept. 12 at 10:00 am (local time). The event includes a brief ceremony and instructions to volunteers on headstone cleaning and beautification. This is a great service opportunity for employee engagement, youth groups, and individuals. Participants are encouraged to post on a Veteran's memorial page at VA's Veterans Legacy Memorial.
Forty-seven 9/11 victims are buried in VA national cemeteries and more than 16,000 Veterans from the Global War on Terror.

September 22nd, 2026: First training session for Suffern Free Library Program --
FREE GLASSES FOR VISUALLY IMPAIRED VETERANS
Suffern Library is proud to support our veterans. Eligible U.S. Military Veterans can receive free Meta AI glasses. Quantities are limited. Learn how AI glasses can help with accessibility, reading and staying connected with loved ones. Glasses will be distributed at the four training sessions. Register online. Sept. 22 at 4:30pm; Sept. 30 at 1:30pm; Oct. 27 at 4pm; Oct. 28 at 11am.
See further details below. The Suffern Free Library has partnered with Senator Bill Weber to offer this to veterans. For further information, contact Darlene Alessi, Director
Suffern Free Library

210 Lafayette Avenue, Suffern, New York 10901.
Phone 845-357-1237 x11 and 845-357-3156 Fax
Registration through Suffern Free Library's Website: https://suffernfreelibrary.libcal.com/event/17235770

Wednesday, September 23rd, 2026: Senator Bill Weber Annual Senior Fair
Wednesday, September 23 -- 10:00am - 2:00pm -- Rockland Community College
Eugene Levy Fieldhouse at 145 College Rd., Suffern, NY 10901
Senator Bill Weber - 38th District - DISTRICT OFFICE
163 Airport Executive Park Nanuet, NY 10954 Phone: (845) 623-3627

Monday, September 28th, 2026: Rockland County Gold Star Family Recognition Ceremony will be held on Monday, September 28th, 2026 at 11:30 a.m. at the Kearsing Edwards American Legion Post 1600, 20 Station Road, Pomona, New York 10970. All are invited.

It is an honor to invite you to the upcoming Gold Star Family Recognition Ceremony. This event is dedicated to honoring the enduring strength, sacrifice, and legacy of those that paid the ultimate sacrifice and the families that live with the pain of their loss every day. We hope that you will join us as we come together to pay tribute and remember. If you have any questions, contact Susan Branam, Director, Veterans Service Agency at (845) 638-5244.

Saturday, October 3rd, 2026: American Legion Auxiliary Oktoberfest Murder Mystery Dinner Fundraiser. Join us on Saturday, October 3rd, 2026 to support a great cause! All funds raised will directly support the American Legion Auxiliary. The event will start at 5:00 PM with hors d'oeuvres, followed by a 6:00 PM buffet dinner, and the show will kick off at 7:00 PM. The address is 29 Walnut Street, New Windsor, NY and tickets can be bought daily at their bar between 1:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Tickets are $60 per person in advance and $70 at the door. For questions, please contact Christine LaBate at 845-500-8825.

Monday, November 2nd, 2026: Registration is open for the 5th Annual Commander's Cup Golf Outing at Blue Hill Golf Course. You can register online or send in the registration form with a check. (RAIN DATE: NOVEMBER 5TH, 2026)
9:00 a.m. Shotgun Start/Best Ball
Check-In at 7:00 a.m. and Continental Breakfast
BLUE HILL GOLF COURSE - Veterans Preferred • $25 per Veteran. • $175 per Civilian
INCLUDES:
18 Holes of Golf & Cart, Lunch, Raffles, 50/50, Longest Drive, Closest to the Pin, Team Prize & Hole in One (Mercedes-Benz of Nanuet.)
REGISTRATION CLOSES, SEND CHECKS NO LATER THAN SEPTEMBER 1ST, 2026 TO:
VFW Post 9215 • 250 Birchwood Ave • Upper Nyack, NY 10960 OR REGISTER & PAY ONLINE @ http://WWW.VFWPOST9215.ORG

For further Information about the golf outing, please contact Al Acunto via email at: cw4aja@aol.com
https://vfwpost9215.org/5th-annual-veterans-golf-outing-commanders-cup/

Clarkstown Central School District
A Legacy of Excellence

Clarkstown North and South High Schools
Hall of Heroes
Allumni Veterans Registry

Hall of Heroes
July 2, 2026
Over the years, countless alumni from both Clarkstown North and Clarkstown South High Schools have taken these values into the wider world by choosing to serve our nation in the United States Armed Forces. To recognize their extraordinary courage and sacrifice, I am incredibly proud to announce the creation of the Clarkstown Hall of Heroes.

This initiative will establish permanent, prominent displays in the main corridors of both North and South High Schools. The Hall of Heroes will serve as a daily reminder to our current students, staff, and visitors of the bravery and selflessness of the hometown heroes who once walked our halls.

We Need Your Help to Build the Hall at CHSN & CHSS

To make this vision a reality, we are relying on our community to help us identify and honor our alumni veterans. If you are an alumnus who served, or if you would like to nominate a family member, friend, or loved one who attended our schools and served, we invite you to submit their information to our official registry.

Please complete the online submission form here: CCSD Hall of Heroes Form
When filling out the form, please be prepared to provide:

The honoree’s name and high school attended (North or South).
Their year of graduation.
Details of their military service (Branch, Years of Service, Highest Rank Achieved).
A high-resolution photograph (military uniform preferred).

Submissions are open to all branches of the military and can be made by the service members themselves, by family members on behalf of living veterans, or in memorial of those who have passed.

We look forward to unveiling the first phase of these memorials later this school year. Thank you for your continued partnership and for helping us give our alumni veterans the profound respect and recognition they have so earned.

Sincerely,

Marc P. Baiocco, Ed.D.Superintendent of Schools

On behalf of the Clarkstown Central School District, I’m pleased to share information regarding a meaningful new initiative: the Hall of Heroes. This project has been created to honor Clarkstown Schools alumni who have served our country with dedication and distinction.

Please find the attached materials, including project details and the nomination form. We encourage you to review and share this information within your networks.
This is an incredible effort that truly celebrates the service and sacrifice of our community’s veterans, and your support in helping spread the word is greatly appreciated.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out.

Nomination Form:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdnnI6SI3DhFfM9GgwTuxbm09syYxuMnblzLBaOKPgWogksjA/viewform

District Announcement:
https://www.ccsd.edu/announce/district-announcements/~board/district-announcements/post/hometown-heroes

The Department of Veterans Affairs can now cover up to 10 months of rent, pay utility bills, buy groceries and arrange transportation for eligible homeless veterans under a new policy that took effect July 29.

The authority allows VA medical centers to purchase goods or pay service providers when staff determines the help is necessary to keep a veteran safe, prevent the loss of housing or connect the veteran with care, employment and permanent housing.

Assistance can include restaurant meals, groceries, hotel stays, moving expenses, clothing, tents, ride-share trips and smartphones with service plans. The policy remains in effect through Sept. 30, 2027.

Veterans will not receive unrestricted cash payments. VA will generally pay landlords, utility companies, stores, transportation providers or other vendors directly, and each request will be reviewed by VA staff.

What the VA Can Pay For

The implementation plan carries out Section 403 of the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act, which became law in January 2025.

For food, the VA may buy prepared meals from restaurants or caterers, provide groceries through food pantries, issue grocery vouchers or pay for commercial meal delivery. Medical centers may set limits on eligible grocery purchases and reasonable delivery tips.

Shelter assistance can cover hotel or motel stays, rent, utility bills, security deposits, application fees and moving costs. The VA may also pay for short-term storage, basic furniture, bedding, cookware, small kitchen appliances and household cleaning supplies.

Transportation may include public-transit vouchers or ride-share trips for medical appointments, housing or job searches, court dates, legal services and trips to obtain food or supplies.

The VA may also provide tablets, smartphones, disposable phones and service plans when a veteran needs the technology to contact clinicians, prospective landlords, family members and other providers.

Who Qualifies for the Assistance

Eligibility includes veterans who meet the federal definition of homelessness and participants in the joint Housing and Urban Development-VA Supportive Housing program, known as HUD-VASH.

The definition can include people living in shelters or places not meant for habitation, along with some veterans who are about to lose their housing and lack another adequate place to stay. It may also cover people fleeing domestic violence or similar threats.

VA clinical staff, primarily social workers, will assess each veteran’s housing status, health, finances, employment, legal concerns and basic needs. Assistance must address a specific problem, such as preventing eviction, reducing hunger, helping a veteran reach an appointment or restoring contact with a landlord.

The notice allows clinicians to make exceptions to some limits when those restrictions would prevent a veteran from receiving assistance considered necessary.

Rent and Utility Help Has Limits

The plan generally allows the VA to cover rent for a maximum of 10 months within a two-year period. Utility assistance carries the same limit. Clinicians may approve additional months when necessary, including when extra rent would allow a veteran to remain housed or higher heating costs threaten housing stability.

To read article: https://www.military.com/new-va-policy-can-pay-up-to-10-months-of-rent-for-homeless-veterans

Vet-to-Vet: Special Events
THE ROCKLAND COUNTY JOSEPH P. DWYER
VETERAN PEER SUPPORT PROGRAM
WEEKLY WELLNESS AND OTHER ACTIVITIES FOR VETS

Friday, August 7th, 2026: Veteran's Game Day Social Luncheon from 11:00am to 2:00pm at the Community Center Town of Clarkstown - Auditorium located at 31 Zukor Road, New City, New York 10956. All Veterans and their spouses, Caregivers and Gold Star families are welcome to join us to play games including BINGO and TRIVIA for prizes. It’s time to come out, get together, socialize, eat lunch and have fun! This event is provided free of charge by Vet to Vet. There is plenty of parking available and the auditorium is very large with plenty of room for folks to spread out. Doors open at 10:40 am. RSVP: Required for Lunch! Contact us and reserve your seat early as we need a proper head count to order the catered meal.

Please contact Elise O'keefe-Edson at EOkeefeEdson@VetToVetRC.org or call 845-903-2332 to reserve a seat or if you have further questions or contact

Nick Ambrogio, Veteran Program Support Specialist
Joseph P. Dwyer Vet to Vet Peer Support Program, Rockland County, New York
Cell: (845) 879-2408

USA 250 Challenge Drive Collection: At the Veterans' Game Day Social, we will also collect donations to support American Legion Post 1044's care package drive for local veterans, active-duty military, and their families! If you plan on coming to the Social, please bring non-perishable pantry items, personal care supplies (razors, sunscreen, socks), kids' activity kits/coloring books, or grocery/restaurant gift cards to drop off.

Fall 2026 Entrepreneurship Incubator Program at Dominican University NY

BRIDGES, in cooperation with Dominican University in New York, is offering a 16-week, 3-credit Introduction to Entrepreneurship course. The program begins on September 2nd, 2026, with courses taking place Wednesday nights from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM. The registration deadline is September 1st, 2026.

Participants will present a Capstone Rocket Pitch on December 16th to a panel of industry professionals. Up to five participants will be awarded up to $3,000 dollars each to support their new ventures. A limited number of scholarships are available to veterans, individuals with disabilities, and formerly justice-involved individuals.

For questions or to register, please contact Vicki Caramante at 845-624-1366 x112, email vcaramante@bridgesrc.org, or visit bridgesrc.org.

Entrepreneurship
A 16-week, 3-credit Intro to Entrepreneurship course at Dominican University of NY beginning September 2, 2026 on Wednesdays 6:00-8:30 PM.
Deadline to sign up for the course is September 1st, 2026.

Course Highlights
Comprehensive Curriculum: Explore key entrepreneurial concepts, from ideation to
execution.

Capstone Rocket Pitch: During the final class on December 16, students will present their business ideas to a jury of industry professionals and compete for start-up funds.

Start-Up Funding: Up to five participants will be awarded up to $3,000 each to
support their ventures.

Registration Deadline:
September 1st, 2026

Questions? Visit bridgesrc.org; call BRIDGES’ Chief Program Officer Vicki Caramante at 845-624-1366 x112; or email vcaramante@bridgesrc.org.

Unlock your entrepreneurial potential. Be empowered to thrive in today’s competitive business landscape. A limited number of scholarships are available to people with disabilities, Veterans, and formerly justice-involved individuals.

Continued support for participants:

regular check-ins;
additional learning opportunities with business leaders;
and sharing resource information.

Earn a chance to enroll in Dominican University's prestigious AACSB accredited Master of Business Administration (MBA) or M.S. in

Organizational Leadership
Communication (MSOLC) program

The Mission of BRIDGES is to provide ADVOCACY and LEADERSHIP towards an accessible and integrated community, promoting health and autonomy for people with disabilities.
In cooperation with Dominican University, Rockland County, New York.

Veterans Accessible Transportation
BRIDGES offers free door-to-door service to and from VA facilities in Montrose and Castle Point. A two week notice for scheduling or cancellations is required. Donations are welcomed. To schedule or learn more, call 845-624-1366 Ext. 139.

Dwyer Vet-to-Vet Wellness Activities
THE ROCKLAND COUNTY JOSEPH P. DWYER
VETERAN PEER SUPPORT PROGRAM
WEEKLY WELLNESS ACTIVITIES

VETERANS WALKING CLUB - Weekly - (Wednesdays) 9:30 am at PALISADES CENTER. Meet in front of BRIDGES, 2nd Floor, next door to Autobahn Indoor Speedway. We will walk between 45 minutes to an hour. Join a fast pace group, slow pace group or walk at your own pace for however long you want. The mall offers us a comfortable indoor venue regardless of the weather outdoors where we can gather together in camaraderie and get some fitness and exercise while we are walking.

Semper Fi,

"Li"

Elise O'Keefe-Edson, Veteran Outreach Coordinator

Joseph P. Dwyer Vet to Vet Peer Support Program, Rockland County, New York
Cell: (845) 903-2332
or
Nick Ambrogio, Veteran Program Support Specialist
Joseph P. Dwyer Vet to Vet Peer Support Program, Rockland County, New York
Cell: (845) 879-2408

VVA #333 Monthly Meetings
Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter #333 -- monthly meeting is usually held on the first Thursday of each month, at Kearsing-Edwards American Legion Post #1600, 20 Station Road, Pomona, New York 10970.

The next meeting will be held on Thursday, August 6th, 2026
The VVA Board meets at 6:30 p.m. and the Membership meeting starts at 7:30 p.m.
The Chapter welcomes current, former and prospective VVA members to attend. The meetings are held at the Kearsing-Edwards American Legion Post #1600, 20 Station Road, Pomona, New York 10970.

If you would like to attend via Zoom, here is that information
NOTE: ZOOM IS AVAILABLE FOR THIS MEETING. SEE THE LINK INFO BELOW.
Topic: JOHN MASTANDREA's Zoom Meeting
Time: Aug 6, 2026 18:15 Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/6305675618?pwd=UVUzSXR0V2JkelJSeUtHZ3R3N2p0dz09&omn=81659786485

Meeting chat link
https://us02web.zoom.us/launch/jc/81659786485

Meeting ID: 630 567 5618
Passcode: 980722

One tap mobile
+16465588656,,6305675618#,,,,*980722# US (New York)
+16469313860,,6305675618#,,,,*980722# US

Join by SIP
• 6305675618@zoomcrc.com

Join instructions
https://us02web.zoom.us/meetings/81659786485/invitations?signature=arYILlmcIMO52M_ltMgVyT0Zjr_h9a-Ei1bJTW5ANIg

Visit Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter #333 website: http://vva333.org

Free access to Veterans First by Sofia Health, a premium live wellness program created to make it easier to care for your health and well-being.

Please see attached and share this with your veterans.

Susan Branam -- Director, Veterans Service Agency
(845) 638-5244

Forwarded from:

Angel Duncan, LCSW -- Health Systems Specialist

Veteran Experience Officer

VA Hudson Valley Health Care System

We’re excited to share that VA Hudson Valley Veterans now have free access to Veterans First by Sofia Health, a premium live wellness program created to make it easier to care for your health and well-being.

Sofia Health offers live, expert-led wellness classes that are typically part of a paid wellness program — but as a VA Hudson Valley Veteran, you can now access this program at no cost.

This benefit is designed to be simple, flexible, and easy to use. Whether you have 10 minutes between meetings, want to reset after a long shift, need help managing stress, or want to build more movement into your week, Veterans First gives you live and on demand support you can access from anywhere.

What You Get with Veterans First

With your free account, you’ll have access to:

✔️ Live virtual wellness classes led by certified instructors
✔️ Yoga, tai chi, qigong, meditation, sound baths, Pilates, health coaching, and more
✔️ On-demand wellness videos you can use anytime
✔️ Classes that support stress relief, movement, flexibility, mindfulness, sleep, and recovery
✔️ Easy options for personal wellness breaks, team mindfulness moments, or mid-day movement

Your work supports others every day. This benefit is here to support you.

You can join a class whenever it fits into your schedule. No commute. No complicated setup. Just simple access to high-quality wellness support.

How Classes Work

After you sign up for a class, you’ll receive a Zoom link by email one hour before class starts.

You do not need to download any apps. Zoom can open right in any internet browser, so you can join from a computer, tablet, or phone with internet access.

Use the Program in the Way That Works for You

This program is meant to support you, not add another obligation to your day. You are welcome to sign up for classes that interest you, try different class types, and attend whenever it works for your schedule.

There is no penalty if you miss a class, cancel late, or cannot attend after signing up. The program and classes are there for you to use however they are helpful — whether that is a five-minute reset, a full class, or an on-demand video when your day allows.

Your individual participation is private. Sofia Health provides monthly participation reports to help VA Hudson Valley understand overall program usage, but this information is de-identified. Names are not included, and reports do not show who attended or missed a class. The program is here for you to use at your own pace and in the way that feels most helpful.

How to Get Started

Visit: https://veteransfirst.sofiahealth.com/
Click Register to create your free account.
Once verified, select Classes from the top menu.
Choose a date and click Sign Up for any session that interests you.

We encourage you to explore the schedule, try a class, and use this benefit as a practical way to support your own well-being.

Top Questions

Q: Is this really free for employees?
A: Yes. VA Hudson Valley employees receive free access to Veterans First by Sofia Health.

Q: Why is it called Veterans First if employees can use it too?

A: Veterans First by Sofia Health reflects the mission behind the program. Sofia Health founder Riley Rees is a 21-year Air Force veteran, and the program was created to support the broader VA community — veterans, caregivers, and the employees who serve them every day.

Q: Can I use this during the workday?
A: You can use the program whenever it works for your schedule. Many classes and on-demand videos are a good fit for short wellness breaks, mindfulness moments, or movement resets. Some classes are as short as 5 minutes, making it easy to fit wellness into a busy day.

Q: Do I need to download Zoom?

A: No. After you sign up for a class, you’ll receive a Zoom link by email and/or text one hour before class starts. Zoom can open directly in any internet browser with internet access.

Q: What happens if I sign up and can’t attend?

A: Nothing! There is no penalty for missing a class, canceling late, or changing your mind. The classes are there for you to use whenever they are helpful.

Q: Do I need experience with yoga, meditation, or fitness classes?
A: No! Many classes are beginner-friendly, and you can choose the class type and level that feels right for you.

Q: How do I find the video library?
A: Click the Video Library button in the footer of the website to access on-demand classes.

Q: How do I filter classes to find what I want?
A: On the class schedule, click the filter icon to sort by class time, type, instructor, or level.

Q: How do I see which classes I’ve taken?
A: On the class schedule, log in and select History to view your previously attended classes.

Q: Where can I get help if I need support?
A: Click the Support link in the footer of the website. You can also select Contact Us or use the chat button in the bottom-right corner of the site.

Q: Why am I seeing a payment page if my account is free?
A: It may take up to 24 hours to process your registration. If you try to sign up before your account is fully enrolled, you may see a payment page. Please wait for the email confirming your enrollment before signing up for class.

Angel Duncan, LCSW -- Health Systems Specialist

Veteran Experience Officer

VA Hudson Valley Health Care System

Attention all Desert Shield and Desert Storm Veterans!

We are looking to identify veterans in our Rockland County community who served during Operation Desert Shield or Operation Desert Storm.

Assemblyman Brian Maher and partner organizers are preparing a special Trip of Honor to Washington, DC from October 23rd to October 24th for the unveiling of the National Desert Storm/Desert Shield War Memorial. The trip includes transportation from the Hudson Valley, a one night hotel stay, meals, a visit to Arlington National Cemetery, and attendance at the official memorial unveiling ceremony. If we identify enough veterans from Rockland County, we might arrange a bus departing directly from our area.

If you are a Desert Storm or Desert Shield veteran, please fill out the Veteran Application directly: https://forms.gle/zUkuxRYtNJNM4ykD7

If you have a guest attending, please also have them complete the Guest Application: https://forms.gle/agXJ5CShFgYyRo4q6

If you have any questions about the trip or the application please reach out to Meghan Hurlburt: meghan.fescoe@gmail.com or call 845-391-5001.

Semper Fi,
Nick Ambrogio
Veteran Program Support Specialist
Joseph P. Dwyer Vet to Vet Peer Support Program
Rockland County, New York
Cell: (845) 879-2408

Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses for Visually Impaired Veterans

Suffern Free Library has announced a new partnership with TechSoup to distribute Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses to local honorably discharged and active-duty veterans living with significant visual impairments. Funded through a nationwide donation from Meta, this initiative pairs cutting-edge wearable technology with hands-on library training to boost independence for low-vision service members.

The Ray-Ban Meta glasses integrate cameras, microphones, speakers, and Meta AI voice controls directly into classic frames. Designed to act as an intuitive assistant, the technology helps blind and low-vision users accomplish everyday tasks—such as reading text aloud, identifying objects in their surroundings, and navigating public spaces—hands-free.

Training and Distribution Schedule
To help recipients maximize the benefits of the technology, veterans will receive their glasses during a required hands-on training session hosted at the library. Sessions are scheduled for:

Tuesday, Sept. 22 at 4:30 PM
Wednesday, Sept. 30 at 1:30 PM
Tuesday, Oct. 27 at 4:00 PM
Wednesday, Oct. 28 at 11:00 AM

Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for a free pair of Ray-Ban Meta glasses, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be an honorably discharged veteran or active-duty U.S. service member. Bring your military ID card or VIC.
Experience significant visual impairment that interferes with daily living.
Own a compatible smartphone (required for setup and app integration).

Registration Information
Eligible veterans must register in advance for one of the above listed four training dates via the Suffern Free Library events calendar at www.suffernfreelibrary.org. Glasses will be distributed directly to participants upon completion of the training.

The Suffern Free Library is located at 210 Lafayette Avenue, Suffern, NY 10901
Phone: (845) 357-1237Fax: (845) 357-3156.
For further information, contact Darlene Alessi, Director

Hours of Operation: Mon – Thu: 9:30am – 8:00pm
Fri: 9:30am – 5:00pm
Sat: 9:30am – 5:00pm
Sun: 12:00pm – 5:00pm
Closed on Sundays from June 22 to August 31.

VETERANS SERVICE AGENCY
20 Squadron Boulevard, Suite 101
New City, New York 10956-5258
Phone: (845) 638-5244 Fax: (845) 638-5730
Email: BranamS@co.rockland.ny.us
Susan Branam, Director

Our office has a Food Pantry for veterans and surviving spouses. We will gladly accept donations. Items can be dropped off during business hours, Monday - Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Our current wish list:

Protein Drinks
Sports Drinks
Peanut butter
Canned chili Jelly
Hot cocoa packets
Laundry detergent
Kitchen bags
Mayonnaise
Pretzels
Cookies/Crackers
Sponges
Dish soap
Cans of coffee
Canned fruit
Canned salmon
Canned Tuna and Spam
Pudding cups (non-refrigerated)
Rice
Pasta sauce
Aluminum Foil
Ziploc bags
Popcorn
Parmesan cheese
Cooking oil (not large)
Body wash
Socks (new)

Thank you!
*We cannot accept clothing at this time.

Faces of Freedom -- Oral Histories and Portraits of the Men and Women that Defend Our Country

I never served in the military, and I never had to make the sacrifices US military veterans have made. I decided I wanted to do something to show my gratitude to our veterans and I began my project which I call Faces of Freedom.

The project consists of interviews and photographs. I meet with veterans, record their personal history, and take their photo. I print the photo in black and white, frame it and present it to each veteran at no charge. The interview covers each veteran’s life before, during and after their time in the service. Each veteran has the opportunity to make any changes to their bio before it is finalized. I make no money from this project and the photos are free to each veteran.

Currently these photos and bios appear on my website www.facesoffreedom.us. They also appear on my Facebook page and the photos and stories of the WWII veterans have been sent to the National WWII Museum for their archives. There are currently 80 interviews and photos on the website. I hope to make this into an exhibit for universities, high schools, community centers, libraries, etc. to help increase awareness of the 3% of the population who is doing the heavy lifting so the rest of us can enjoy all that this country has to offer.

Every veteran has a story. Some stories are about combat, some are about funny memories, some stories are sad, and some are about things accomplished after their military service. All are about service to country and making sacrifices.

You have a story and I want to tell it to the rest of the people in the United States. Let’s pick a date and get together to record your history and tell it to our fellow citizens.

Regards,
Walter Schuppe
Avon, CT
Phone: (860) 558-1072
E-mail: walter11_22@yahoo.com

Please check out Vietnam veteran Roy Tschudy's book, "Endless." Roy is a past President of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter #333, and writes about a variety of experiences that our Vietnam vets encountered. As with all good books, be prepared to experience a lot of emotions with this: you will be intrigued, angry, surprised, maybe shed a tear or two, and laugh out loud at some of the shenanigans in this enjoyable tale of fact, fiction and myth. All proceeds of "Endless" go to help veterans. The book is available in paperback or Kindle edition from Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/Endless-Roy-Tschudy/dp/1524668516/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Roy+Tschudy+Endless&qid=1638898608&sr=8-1#customerReviews
"Endless" is the second book authored by Roy Tschudy. His first book also had great reviews.
"Up Close and Personal" is available through Amazon as well.

VA: Hiring Veterans - Manage your career and employment benefits

County of Rockland: Visit our website to learn more about employment in Civil Service and to search for a variety of employment opportunities available to you within Rockland County. https://mycivilservice.rocklandgov. com/exams

Rockland County Department of Personnel has other job opportunities. Check out their website here: https://www.rocklandcountyny.gov/departments/personnel

NYS Department of Civil Service
Looking for a job with great benefits? Join New York State! Public servants for NYS enjoy benefits including:
*Generous PTO
*Health Insurance
*Hybrid Remote Work Options
Browse open positions: https://statejobs.ny.gov
#NYSJobs #NowHiring #WorkLifeBalance

VA Hudson Valley is hiring and enrolling! Our Veterans deserve the best and we need your help to deliver that care for them. Please share with your networks!
Hiring: We currently have 100+ job vacancies posted on our USAJOBS page, available USAJOBS - Search
These include clinical and non-clinical roles at our campuses in Montrose and Castle Point, as well many of our 7 clinics throughout the Hudson Valley. Applicants can review the great VA benefits we offer, to include, compensation, leave flexibilities, student loan forgiveness, health care benefits and retirement benefits.

Some of the jobs we need filled urgently are:

Nurse, including all Specialties – Montrose Campus
Medical Support Assistant - Montrose and Castle Point locations
AC Mechanic – Castle Point Campus

Always accepting applications for Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurse and Certified Nurse Assistant. VA wants to hear from you! If you have questions about any of the above positions, please contact Timothy.McGuigan@va.gov or call 503-307-0193.
For further information, contact Timothy J McGuigan, MS, HR Senior Consultant, VA Hudson Valley HCS -- (503) 307 0193. VISN2HRSBUHudsonValley@va.gov

The Department of Civil Service: The following examination announcements have been updated and added to our public website. When filing your online application, please be advised that technical assistance is available Monday – Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Please be advised that you will need a personal NY.gov ID to apply for Department of Civil Service examinations. If you do not have a personal NY.gov ID, please create an account. Here are some of the employment opportunity examinations coming up -- please view this link for further description of each position:

Continuous Recruitment Examinations
The Department also accepts applications for most continuous recruitment examinations on an ongoing basis, with no application deadline.

Continuous Recruitment Examinations -

https://www.cs.ny.gov/jobseeker/public/cr.cfm

HELP Program – No Examinations Required
The Hiring for Emergency Limited Placement (HELP) Program temporarily removes the civil service exam requirement for more than 100 direct care, health and human services titles across State agencies for a 12-month period. To be eligible for jobs in the HELP program, candidates must meet the jobs’ minimum qualifications and any other conditions of employment. Candidates should visit the HELP Jobs Portal and use the candidate portal to apply for jobs in the HELP program.
Check out HELP Jobs Portal here: https://www.cs.ny.gov/help/

Veterans Employment and Training Services (VETS) Resources for Veterans

The Veterans' Employment and Training Service (VETS) is committed to helping America's veterans and separating service members by preparing them for meaningful careers, providing employment resources and expertise, and protecting their employment rights.
https://www.benefits.gov/benefit/4624

FedEx Independent Service Provider
FedEx is looking to hire full time and part time drivers to deliver and pickup packages from Blauvelt, NY. Full time schedule is Monday – Friday and part time schedule has weekend positions available. Must be over 21 years old, have a clean drivers license, and be able to pass physical and drug tests. Background checks are also required. Salary for full time starts at $700 per week. Please contact 201-724-7781 to see if you qualify.

Office of Acquisition, Logistics, and Construction of the Veterans Administration:
The link below lists current positions have been announced for the Office of Acquisition, Logistics and Construction (OALC). This is not a complete listing of all Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) vacancies and may not include all positions announced for OALC. You may access VA recruitment information on the VA Jobs site at this link: https://www.va.gov/jobs/
If you wish copies of announcements listed below, please contact the individual identified in the specific announcement. Here is the link to the OALC Job Listings:
https://www.va.gov/oalc/career.asp

Montefiore-Nyack Hospital, Nyack, New York 10960
See link for full listing and information about career opportunities at Nyack Hospital, Nyack, New York. https://montefiorenyackcareers.org

Good Samaritan Hospital, Suffern, New York. Good Samaritan Hospital is affiliated with Westchester Medical Center. See this link for available employment - https://wmchealthjobs.org/search-jobs/

Rockland County Employment Information:
Here is a link to current job openings available in Rockland County
http://rocklandgov.com/departments/personnel/job-opportunities/

Rockland County Veterans' Credits:
http://rocklandgov.com/files/8115/1120/9567/Veterans_Credit_Info.pdf

New York City Civil Service Jobs, Tests, and Results as listed in The Chief:
http://thechiefleader.com/news/civil_service/

MTA Metro-North Railroad has ongoing employment opportunities:
To apply for current jobs with the MTA, please go to the MTA Employment Portal at: http://web.mta.info/mta/employment/

NYC Green Book Online: The Green Book is the official directory of the City of New York. An indispensable reference guide for anyone living or working in New York City. Includes detailed listings of agencies. Website: http://a856-gbol.nyc.gov/GBOLWebsite/

Rockland County Marine Corps League regularly receives donations of handicap assistance equipment for disabled veterans from people who want to help. The donated equipment is available for free to military veterans and their families. The items include the following:

Motorized Wheelchairs
Manual Wheelchairs
Oxygen Generator
Walkers
Bath Chairs
Transfer Benches
Braces
Crutches
Canes

If you have need of any of this equipment, contact John Leighton of the Rockland County Marine Corps League - 845-521-5361 or via email: jhleighton@att.net.

RockVets is an Outreach program of New York Vets, Inc., a 501 (c) 3 not-for-profit organization established in 1992, to advocate for those who have worn the uniform of the U.S. Military, no matter where or when they served.

The volunteers at New York Vets / RockVets publish this monthly e-newsletter. We welcome your thoughts, questions, and feedback. E-mail: NewYorkVets@gmail.com or pat@rockvets.com.

We are not affiliated with any government agency such as the Veterans Administration, Rockland County Government, nor the Veterans Service Agency of Rockland.

Each month, our newsletter reaches more than 1800 local veterans or those who care about veterans' interests. Please use this forum to let veterans know of any information, resources, links or events they might be beneficial to them. Send information to NewYorkVets@gmail.com or send us a note through our website: https://newyorkvets.org. Thank you for passing this newsletter along to other veterans or those who care.

Our Mailing Address
New York Vets, Inc. / RockVets
P.O. Box 387
Tomkins Cove, New York 10986

Pat McGlade
Co-Founder / Director
Website: http://newyorkvets.org
RockVets Newsletters: https://newyorkvets.org/newsletters
Email: NewYorkVets@gmail.com