RockVets Newsletter - February 2022

Jerry Donnellan with his grand-niece Anna Donnellan
Each year, schools from around the nation create Valentines for Veterans in February. I'm sure this year will be no different but we have a special Valentine being sent this month for one very special veteran.

In honor of Jerry, his grand-niece Anna designed a great-looking tattoo for herself which is on her right ankle. It depicts a heart for love, and the number 22, for the 22 veterans who commit suicide each day. Under the image is the date:
March 23, 2018 -- which is the day we lost Jerry .

Here is what Anna had to say as to why she was inspired to do this:

“My uncle Jerry has been such a great man to look up to in my life. I recently applied to college and wrote my college essay about how he is my role model in life. He has inspired me to help the community around me and volunteer to help those in need. I decided to get a tattoo in honor of Jerry and so that I could always have a part of him with me.”

Anna said if any of you tattoo aficionados want to use her design, she is fine with that. I had a hard time getting my ears pierced when I was in my 30s so I will not be getting a tattoo!!! But it is a great design with such heart-felt meaning.

Anna will be heading off to college in the Fall....we wish her much success in her new adventure!

There are three different property tax exemptions available to veterans who have served in the U. S. Armed Forces, including veterans who have served in the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard.

Obtaining a veterans exemption is not automatic – If you're an eligible veteran, you must submit the initial exemption application form to your Town assessor. The deadline in most communities is March 1st. Please confirm the date with your Town assessor.

For further information: https://www.tax.ny.gov/pit/property/exemption/vetexempt.htm

You must attach to your application either:
Proof that you were discharged or released from service under honorable conditions (usually Form DD-214; see the complete listing of Acceptable military records for veterans property tax exemptions) or

A letter you received from the New York State Division of Veterans' Services (DVS) stating that you now meet the character of discharge criteria for all of the benefits and services listed in the Restoration of Honor Act.

You must also provide proof of the times and places served in active duty, if not already included on the documentation described above.

See Publication 1093, Veterans Exemption Questions & Answers – Partial Exemption from Property Taxes in New York State for more information.

Whichever exemption you choose, it will apply only to county, city, town, and village taxes; it does not apply to special district taxes. School districts also have the option to offer the alternative veterans and cold war veterans exemption.

You can only receive one of the three exemptions listed below.

Alternative veterans exemption
Available only on residential property of a veteran who has served during a designated time of war, or who has received an expeditionary medal.
Currently available in over 95 percent of the county, city, town, and village taxing jurisdictions across the state. The remainder of these jurisdictions may choose to offer this exemption in the future. School districts also have the option to offer this exemption.

Check with your Town assessor or clerk to see whether the alternative veterans exemption is offered. Authorized by Real Property Tax Law, section 458-a.

File a Claim for Military Exposure
If you have an illness or condition related to in-service exposure, you may be eligible for disability compensation.

VA is now processing service-connected disability claims for six new presumptive conditions related to exposure to hazardous materials and encourages Veterans who were previously denied, to file a claim once again. If the VA is encouraging you to do so, you might want to follow up on it! They very often automatically deny claims submitted so try again.

View this YouTube link for further information:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fhCi8QKb_EU

or visit the VA website here:
https://www.va.gov/health-care/health-needs-conditions/chemical-hazardous-materials-exposure/

HISTORY OF FOUR CHAPLAINS DAY

The Four Chaplains on board the ship were Reverend George L. Fox of the Methodist faith, Jewish Rabbi Alexander D. Goode, Father John P. Washington of the Catholic faith, and Reverend Clark V. Poling from the Dutch Reformed Church. Many witnesses remember their courage, support, and prayers for the many distressed people onboard. They offered their life jackets to four people in need and as a consequence had to remain on the sinking ship, comforted only by the thought of their actions and the fact that they were going to meet their Maker soon.

In recognition of their valor and guided by non-discrimination against anyone based on their religion, the Four Chaplains Memorial Foundation was set up as a way of promoting interfaith unity and a spirit of service among individuals. The U.S. government awarded them the Purple Heart and Distinguished Service Cross medals in 1944. They were also nominated for the highest military honor, the Medal of Honor, but because they had not engaged in active combat with the enemy, they did not qualify for it. Congress, therefore, created a ‘Special Medal for Heroism’ as an honorable substitute.

Since the bombing took place on February 3, 1943, many military organizations and clubs across the country observe Four Chaplains Day, and in 1998, a senate resolution was passed to recognize the 55th anniversary of the incident making Four Chaplains Day official.

This year, at the monthly VVA Chapter #333 meeting on February 3rd, the veterans held a remembrance and moment of silence to honor the Four Chaplains.

Some upcoming events for February and March 2022

Saturday, February 5th, 2022: People and Pet Food Drive -- from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the John M. Perry American Legion Post 1044 (691 Rt. 340, Sparkill New York)

Please Come Drop Off the Following Donation Items:
For People - unopened, non-perishable food - to be given to the People to People Food Pantry in Nanuet, New York. Any unopened, non-perishable food and non-alcoholic beverages would be welcome. Please ensure the food is not past the expiration date.

For Pets - non-perishable pet food and supplies - to be given to the Hi-Tor Animal Care Center in Pomona, New York. Non-perishable pet food, treats, toys, leashes, collars, beds, old blankets & towels, cleaning supplies,

Please reach out to Dave Mart, Past Post Commander of the John M. Perry Post, if you have any questions. Dave's cell phone number is 845-709-1631; email davidmart2017@gmail.com.

Thursday, February 10th - 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM Zoom Meeting
Vibrant Emotional Health, formerly the Mental Health Association of New York City (MHA-NYC), Presents -- Aging Veterans: The Impact of Covid & Access to Essential Resources

If you serve aging, chronically ill or homebound veterans, you know the pandemic has wreaked havoc on their lives. They lack the facility to use technology and as a result are cutoff from information about essential human services. Many are living with fears of Eviction, Loss of income, Health issues; and Concerns related to long-term care and estate planning.

Join us on Zoom Thursday, February 10th from 9:00 to 10:30am and learn how you can connect your veterans to essential benefits, legal services and access to in-home health and mental health care. Additionally, hear about benefits that are designed to support their loved ones who are providing the care and support that enable veteran to age in place.

You Must Be Registered to Attend. Your Zoom Confirmation and Link will be sent to you once you register below. Advance Registration Is Required to Join.
Register Here: https://vibrant.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZApde-hpjktHtFYmvgyn3wsqCASxgxgOTHS
Veterans Mental Health Coalition of NYC
https://www.vibrant.org/what-we-do/advocacy-policy-education/the-veterans-mental-health-coalition/

Wednesday, February 16, 2022 11:00 a.m. Buffalo Soldiers Award Ceremony
The Rockland County Buffalo Soldiers Award Ceremony is scheduled for February 16, 2022 (Wednesday) 11:00 a.m. at Rockland Community College Ellipse Center 145 College Road, Suffern, New York. Masks are required if planning to attend in person. The ceremony will also be recorded. Join us in honoring: Eugene Fields, Nathaniel Harvey, Jr., Walter Khan and Dr. Abigaile Taylor. For further information contact the Rockland County Veterans Service Agency (VSA) at 845-638-5244.

March 1st through March 11th, 2022:
Vietnam Memories Program: Members of Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter #333 will be at Suffern High School from March 1st to March 11th, 2022 to present the Vietnam Memories Program. On March 1st, there will be an assembly from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. The remaining school days between March 3rd and March 11th, will be classes in the library. All presenters will be required to have been fully vaccinated and wear a mask. The program will be presented at Felix Festa Middle School in April - Details on that will come at another time. For further information, contact Howard Goldin via email: goldingoose@verizon.net.

March 10, 11, 12 (Thurs. 1pm-6pm, Fri. 1pm-6pm, Sat. 10am-3pm)
Military Behavioral Health Training (MBHT) for Peer Mentors – 15 Hour Virtual Course

Veterans will learn about behavioral and physical health issues associated with military service, how to use military experiences to be a peer mentor, develop a mentor relationship and deal with issues that may arise within the mentoring relationship

Topics addressed:
Military Culture
War on Psyche
Reintegration Challenges
Physical and Mental Health Issues
Veterans in Legal System
Military ERAs
PFC Joseph P. Dwyer
Suicide Prevention
Peer to Peer Model
Roles and Responsibilities
Self-Care
Resources
If interested in attending or for further questions, contact Sharon Bailey, Veteran Outreach Administrator at email sbailey@vettovetrc.org.

March 20, 2022: St. Patrick's Day Parade in Pearl River, New York
Vietnam Veterans, Chapter #333 will be marching in the St. Patrick's Day Parade in Pearl River on March 20th, 2022. Ray Furlong, V.P. VVA 333, would like as many members as possible to participate so please mark your calendars!

Stay safe from COVID-19 by switching to a telehealth visit
News Sections: Coronavirus, Health, Top Stories
Published On: February 2nd, 2022
Treva Lutes is director of the Office of Connected Care Communications

Concerned about the Omicron COVID-19 variant? You can reduce your risk of getting sick by switching your appointment to a video telehealth visit.

With the VA Video Connect app, you can meet with your VA care team over a secure video connection. There is no need to drive to a VA medical center or clinic.

Along with saving you travel time, video visits help you avoid exposure to COVID-19 at in-person appointments. Plus, VA telehealth visits are free.

“Veterans can choose a VA Video Connect visit if they prefer staying home because of the Omicron variant, or for any reason. It can be simply because they prefer the convenience of meeting with their VA care team from home,” said Dr. Leonie Heyworth, clinical deputy director, VA Office of Connected Care.

Not all appointments can be conducted over video, but VA telehealth visits are a good option for many primary care and mental health appointments.

First time? We’ll walk you through it.
You can use VA Video Connect on any smartphone, tablet or computer with a reliable internet connection. Your VA care team will send you a link to access your video visits through an email or text message.

If it’s your first time trying a video visit, you can have a VA staff member walk you through the steps of using VA Video Connect and joining the video visit. The Office of Connected Care Help Desk is available to assist with VA Video Connect 24/7 at 866-651-3180.

The steps are also available through the VA Video Connect page on the VA App Store.
https://mobile.va.gov/app/va-video-connect

In 2021, more than two million Veterans used video visits to connect with their VA care teams. You can avoid exposure to COVID-19 for yourself and your loved ones by switching to a VA Video Connect appointment.

To learn more about switching to a VA Video Connect visit, talk with your VA care team.
https://blogs.va.gov/VAntage/99636/stay-safe-from-covid-19-by-switching-to-a-telehealth-visit/

Free resources help Veterans and military spouses
find jobs
News Sections: #VetResources, Guest Posts
Published On: January 31st, 2022

Free resources from AARP’s new job center help Veterans and military spouses find jobs.

For many of the 8.3 million military Veterans in the civilian workforce, transitioning into a career can be a difficult process. Even after securing a civilian job, Veterans and their spouses often find themselves in roles that leave them underemployed, meaning their skills are not fully utilized, making it difficult to make ends meet.

“When you’re a Veteran or military spouse, it can be challenging to know where to start your job search and how to get employers to understand how your job skills, experience and character transfer to a new position,” said Troy Broussard, senior adviser to AARP’s Veterans and Military Families Initiative.

Despite the drop in Veteran unemployment to 3.2 percent in December 2021, two-thirds of all Veteran and active-duty spouses employed in the civilian sector say they are underemployed in some way, according to data from the Blue Star Families’ annual Military Lifestyle Survey.

To help alleviate unemployment and underemployment in the Veteran community, AARP created the Veteran and Military Spouses Job Center.

“This free, one-stop resource will help Veterans and military spouses learn how to effectively leverage their military skills and experience to give them an edge in today’s competitive job market and avoid underemployment,” said Broussard.

The center includes a suite of free resources to help find jobs, explore new career fields, get advice, take a job training course and more. Among the resources offered are:

AARP Job Board: Veterans can search for employers who value military experience and how it applies to their industry. Use the “Veterans Wanted” filter to search for employers who are actively seeking applicants with a military background.

AARP Resume Advisor: Get a free expert review of how well your résumé communicates your skills, and obtain personalized recommendations on how to make your résumé stand out. Discounted writing packages are also available to rewrite your résumé, cover letter or LinkedIn profile.

Be Your Own Boss: Many Veterans have gone on to become successful entrepreneurs in civilian life. For those interested in starting a business or a side gig, AARP has compiled resources to help aspiring entrepreneurs take that step.

Veteran Career Advantage Course: This free online class offered through MindEdge Learning includes short videos of Veterans sharing their firsthand experiences on topics such as résumés, networking, personal branding and the common challenges Veterans face.

Veterans and Military Spouses Job Search Toolkit: Learn how to translate military service, skills and experience to the civilian workforce and jump-start a new career path.

Bookmark the Veterans, Military and Their Families page on AARP.org: Stay up to date with the latest news and information impacting older Veterans at aarp.org/Veterans. AARP resources for Veterans are free and available to nonmembers.We're publishing this information again this month by request.

For further information, view this link:
https://blogs.va.gov/VAntage/99605/free-resources-veterans-jobs/

Retroactive Benefit for VA Service-Connected Compensation

Does VA’s Retroactive Benefit, commonly referred to as Back Pay, cover you from the time you incurred an injury or illness in the military? What if a Veteran was denied a previous claim and laws change like they did with Agent Orange exposure? Will VA compensate you for all that time? Watch and find out!

In this episode of theSITREP, we discuss Back Pay or Retroactive Benefits for VA Disability or VA Service-Connected Compensation. This episode is part of a weekly video series that answers questions about VA Service-Connected Compensation.

View link here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g_fHkJlCv90

THE ROCKLAND COUNTY PFC JOSEPH P. DWYER
VETERAN PEER SUPPORT PROGRAM
Weekly ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS

For further information, contact Ismael (Izzy) Quintana
Veteran Outreach Coordinator, PFC Joseph P. Dwyer |Veteran Peer Support Program
Rockland County (Vet to Vet) | Cell: (845) 587-6497

MEDITATION - Weekly - (M, W & F) - 9-9:30 am. Class elicits deep relaxation and helps reduce stress and anxiety with experienced Instructor Brett Cotter (Stress is Gone Founder and Author). Online virtual event you can experience via Zoom. Click here for link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/98384040455?pwd=djE3VGhUTDJzRU1HMEJ6bnJxa3E2QT09

VETERANS WALKING CLUB - Weekly - (Wednesdays) - 9:30 am at PALISADES CENTER. Meet in front of BRIDGES, 2nd Floor, next door to Autobahn Indoor Speedway. Masks required while in the mall if not vaccinated. We will walk between 45 minutes to an hour. Join fast pace group, slow pace group or walk at your own pace for however long you want. It’s starting to get cold outside and the mall offers us a nice warm indoor venue where we can gather and get some fitness and exercise while we get walking !

GENTLE YOGA - Weekly - (Wednesdays) - 7-8 pm & again on (Sundays) 10-11:15 am. Virtual session via Zoom. Yoga is extremely beneficial for your physical and mental health. Instructor Mira Stangl is a 500 hour Yoga-Alliance Certified Teacher With Extensive Training in PTSD and Restorative Yoga. If interested in attending email iquintana@vettovetrc.org.\

QIGONG - Weekly - (Thursdays) from 9-10 am. (Ancient Chinese Exercise). Gentle meditative exercises based on the cultivation and refinement of Universal Life Energy known as Qi. Practicing this exercise reduces pain, stress and anxiety, improves physical fitness and improves immune function and vitality. Instructor Norman Galinsky, MFA has over 36 years experience in the art. If interested in attending or have questions, contact Izzy Quintana at email iquintana@vettovetrc.org

Please check out Vietnam veteran Roy Tschudy's book, "Endless." Roy is the current 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. His first book also had great reviews.
"Up Close and Personal" is available through Amazon as well.

Good reading and benefits a good cause.

Company: Johnson Controls

Please find below a series of Web Site addresses concerning job openings from Johnson Controls. Johnson Controls is a large company doing business with the U.S. Government, Military, Industrial, and Commercial companies throughout the U.S.

Please see list of job openings in the New York State area. Johnson Controls would like to hire veterans where possible. If any of your members are interested, I can put the veteran in contact with my friend who can help with applying for the below positions. For further information, contact:
John H.Leighton
Cell phone: 845-521-5361
Email: jhleighton@att.net

Email John Leighton with Name, Town in NY, Email address and phone number.

Here are some available positions:

http://k.rfer.us/JOHNSONCTRLEAhv5Q Fire Suppression Technician

http://k.rfer.us/JOHNSONCTRLYXGv5S Control systems Technician

http://k.rfer.us/JOHNSONCTRLHI7v5T Security Installer

http://k.rfer.us/JOHNSONCTRL4r7v5U HVAC TB Controls Technician

http://k.rfer.us/JOHNSONCTRL0E.v5V Security Installer

http://k.rfer.us/JOHNSONCTRL0JWv5W Customer Operations Associate

http://k.rfer.us/JOHNSONCTRLER8v5X Security Installer

http://k.rfer.us/JOHNSONCTRLKg5v5Y Chiller Apprentice

Note: Each position has its own unique location.

Con Edison Careers:
View this link for available job opportunities: http://careers.coned.com/jobs/search
There are General Utility Worker positions open all across the company. Please check out the link above for updated positions and detailed job descriptions. For further information, contact James E. Christman, MBA, MEM, SHRM-CP |Project Specialist
Veterans and Disabilities Recruiter. | Con Edison | 4 Irving Place, NY, NY 10003
christmanja@coned.com | Office: 212-460-3110

Orange County Job Opportunity
Cathy Parlapiano, Co Owner of Here's Help Staffing/Recruiting in Middletown shared a position they're trying to fill. If anyone is interested they can contact
Cathy Parlapiano at:
Phone: 845-344-3434 | Email: cparlapiano@hereshelp.com

Farm Manager needed full time, live on premises (rent free)
Pet Boarding/Farm near Montgomery, New York (Orange County)
They are equipped to board 80-100 dogs. This person would oversee and be hands on, assist with general maintenance as well as other tasks as needed; Cutting grass, Building fences
Splitting firewood, Feed horses (literally drop hay in the field, nobody touches the horses)
Person needs to be around all the time (Saturdays off). Owner supplies a house suitable for one or a couple and pays utilities as well as a weekly salary of $800. Unfortunately no benefits are offered.

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.
Veterans Employment and Training Service (VETS) Resources and Other Information

Grants and Opportunities VETS provides critical resources, expertise, and training to assist veterans in locating and obtaining meaningful careers.

Grant Opportunities Jobs For Veterans State Grants program provides federal funding to hire dedicated staff and assist employers fill their workforce needs with job-seeking veterans.

VA Employment Resources. VA Employment Resources allows veterans, service members, and their families to research, find, access, and manage their benefits and personal information.

Updates and Reports. Find the latest VETS updates and congressional reports.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs). Find answers to general and federal contractor questions.

Links

Shareables -- Fact Sheets and Guides

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 the folks at the Rockland County Marine Corps League - 845-323-8774 or via e-mail: drobin137@icloud.com.

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.

We are not affiliated with Rockland County Government nor the Veterans Service Agency of Rockland.

Each month, our newsletter reaches more than 1600 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 enjoy. Send information to NewYorkVets@gmail.com and thank you to all of you who pass this newsletter along to other veterans.

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

Pat McGlade
Co-Founder / Director
Email: NewYorkVets@gmail.com