Remember                                          In Memory of Bill Wolf  and all of our fallen brothers.....       

Chapter Board Meeting:  1st Tuesday, 7:00 PM
Chapter Membership Meeting: Tuesday,  7:00 PM - CA Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Alliance- at the Roseville Veterans Memorial Hall
                                                                            ***AWARD WINNING NEWSLETTER***

CAPITOL CITY
VETERAN

Newsletter for Sacramento Valley's Chapter 500 of the Vietnam Veterans of America, Inc.

"We remember!"  FEBRUARY, 2009 "Be Proud"

               
    PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

Dear Fellow Members:
     While the first two months of this year have been pretty quiet in regard to chapter activities, it won't be that way for long.  We have our upcoming meeting to inform Veterans who own their own businesses where they can get help, as well as those who are thinking of starting their own businesses.  Upcoming in March, will be the St. Patrick's Day Parade.  The Irish in me is really looking forward to that.  We'll have quite the entry, with our Marine Cadets and the "Never Forget Our Fallen" hummer joining with our own members and vehicles.  Then on March 28 we will join Vietnam Veterans around the country with our own "Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day".  We'll lay a wreath at the Memorial at Noon and then gather at the Bunker for food and friendship.
    Also wanted to mention that the Marine Cadets were honored to have BG Emory Hagan III attend our Drill Day to officially pin chevrons on our newest corporal, Sophia Navarette.  It was an exciting day for all of our Cadets.  Hope to see you all soon.
                   Your President, Karen Winnett

                                        WE CAN HELP
     Occasionally we receive calls, e-mails or other contacts from those who want to help specific Veterans.  For instance we received a donation earmarked specially for  homeless Veterans.  We inquired about specific needs and were told that blankets were needed.  The chapter then bought 22 blankets and delivered them to a contact Veteran we know at Volunteers of America where they will be stored and given to Veterans in need of the blankets. 
     Recently, we received an e-mail from a group that wants to donate some money to one of our members that is in particular need, whether they are disabled, or having financial problems due to the current economic crisis,  etc.  So, if you know of anyone in particular, or if you are in need yourself,  please call or e-mail the office with that information.  The information received will be kept strictly confidential.    

 

        CURRENT NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
GENERAL MEETING
TUESDAY, February 17, 2009
TIME: 7:00PM AT THE ROSEVILLE HALL
Guest Speaker will be:

Gary Herbold, 1st Vice President
Rich Dryden, Executive Director
CENTRAL VALLEY DISABLED VETERANS BUSINESS ENTERPRISE ALLIANCE

     The Central Valley DVBE Network provides FREE counseling, advocacy and support to disabled veteran business owners throughout Northern California.  The network's mission is to create business opportunities with government agencies, private companies and other Alliance members, linking members with appropriate and timely information, collaborating to solve problems and to provide ongoing educational opportunities.  Veterans with a 10% or more service connected disability are eligible to be considered a DVBE. 
     If you have your own business or are thinking about starting one, come a learn about the advantages and how the DVBE Alliance can help you.  Friends and the public are invited to attend and learn how to take advantage and benefit from having your business certified as a DVBE. 

                            TIME FOR NOMINATIONS
February is the month when nominations are accepted for the upcoming chapter elections in April.  Officers to be elected are President, V. President, Secretary and Treasurer, 3 Board Members, State Delegate and Alternate, AVVA Representative, and the Nominating Committee.  Call in or e-mail your nominations.  The nominee must agree to accept the nomination.  You may also nominate yourself.  All nominations will be announced in March and the election is in April, with the newly elected taking over in May.

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THE CAPITOL VETERAN........FEBRUARY, 2009.......Page 2

VETERAN BENEFITS

COMPENSATED WORK THERAPY PAYMENTS ARE NOT TAXABLE. - REFUNDS MAY BE IN ORDER

     This ruling by the US Tax Court, and agreed upon by the IRS took place in 2007.  But refunds could be due if disabled Veterans paid taxes on the payments from 2004 on.  Here is the IRS statement on the issue.  If you believe you qualify for refunds seek the help of a tax advisor to amend your returns.
     "Washington - Payments under the VA Compensated Work Therapy program are no longer taxable and disabled veterans who paid tax on these benefits in the past can now claim refunds the IRS said today (2007).
     Recipients of CWT payments will no longer receive a Form 1099 from the VA.  Disabled veterans who paid tax on these benefits in tax years 2004,05, 06 can claim a refund by filing an amended return using IRS Form 1040X.  According to the VA, more than 19,000 veterans received CWT in 2007.
     The IRS agreed with a U.S. Tax Court decision issued earlier this year, which held that CWT payments are tax-free veterans' benefits.  In so doing, the agency reversed a 1965 ruling which held that these payments were taxable and required the VA to issue 1099 forms to payment recipients.
     According to the VA, the CWT program provides assistance to veterans unable to work and support themselves.  Under the program, the VA contracts with private industry and the public sector for work by veterans, who learn new job skills, re-learn successful work habits and regain a sense of self-esteem and self-worth."

STIMULUS PAYMENTS

     According to the IRS - the Stimulus Payments you may have received last year are not taxable.  There may also be some credits you would be eligible for if you did not receive the payment or your situation has changed.  Best to ask your tax advisor about these just in case you may be eligible.

INDEPENDENT LIVING PROGRAM

     Are service-related disabilities preventing you from working or being able to live independently and participate in family and community life?  If so, you need to check out the VA Vocational Rehabilitation Program.  Even if you ultimately may not be able to go back to work, independent living can possibly be achieved.  When a Voc Rehab Counselor determines that employment goals are not currently feasible, an evaluation of the veteran's independent living needs will be conducted.  The Counselor and the veteran will work together to identify the veteran's needs.  An individualized Independent Living Program will be written providing the services necessary to meet the veteran's specific needs. Services provided may include the following:   Continued in the next column.....         

  

MORE BENEFIT INFORMATION

►Assistive Technology
►Specialized medical, health, and/or rehabilitation services
►Services to address any personal and/or family adjustment issues
►Independent living skills training
►Connection with community-based support services 
         If you think you may qualify for any of these services contact the Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors located at 10365 Old Placerville Rd. - 916-364-6500. 

YOUR VA MEDICAL RECORDS  

     Just visiting the doctor can create stress and at the end of the visit, have you really understood what you have been told.  So it wouldn't hurt to get a copy of the medical record.  The copies also serve a back-up for claim purposes, or if you have concerns or questions regarding your treatment.  You can ask for copies at the hospital itself or sign up at "My HealtheVet" online system www.myhealth.va.gov. and request copies of your records.  Glitches have been known to happen in the medical system.  While the VA and any other medical system has an obligation to proper treatment and diagnosis, patients need to take a proactive stance in analyzing their treatment and care also.  
     The "MyHealtheVet" site has lots of other information helpful information designed to keep you healthy.  There is also a medical library where you can look up those terms used in your medical records, prescription refills can be arranged, access to your physicians, important contacts, and much more. Take the virtual tour and see if this site can be a benefit for you by helping to manage your health issues.

BAD NEWS FOR THE BLUE WATER NAVY

     On January 21, 2009 the Supreme Court refused to hear the appeal of Haas vs. Peake.  this action makes final a Court of Appeals decision which held that VA could deny service connection for herbicide related presumptive disabilities for certain veterans who received the Vietnam Service Medal but who did not actually set foot in Vietnam,  Those most affected by this ruling are veterans who served in Thailand and on board ships off the coast of Vietnam (blue water navy).  On January 22, 2009 VA issued instructions in their Memorandum NO. 01-09-03 allowing the resumption of processing of those cases stayed while the Haas case worked its way through the judicial system.
     Chapter note:  This should not affect the claims of those claims where the veteran had actually set foot in Vietnam who were assigned periodic missions that took place in Vietnam, as well as other service connected disabilities for chemicals used specifically on ships.  It is shameful that the Court has made this decision to not hear evidence on how these veterans were or were not affected by Agent Orange to help settle their claims.

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THE CAPITOL VETERAN...........FEBRUARY, 2009.........Page 3

 

 

 

PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS


"A Continuing Tradition"

   Rebecca Lee                  916-501-8788
  Call Rebecca for the Special Discounts available for Veterans
Many East Lawn locations in the Sacramento area
Pre-Arrangement Plans are also available.

43rd & Folsom Blvd., P.O. Box 19334, Sacramento, CA 95819
East Lawn Insurance Services, Inc. License #0747585
www.eastlawn.com


 272 Mandalay Ct.                      smith8834@sbcglobal.net
Roseville, CA 95747   916-543-3390

        HELP YOUR BUSINESS AND SUPPORT THE VVA
     Advertise in the Capitol Veteran.  Reasonable Rates!!!
One issue, business card size is $5.00.  Get one month free by advertising for 6 months at $25.00.  Call the office for more information or submit your copy with a check to VVA by mail.

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THE CAPITOL VETERAN CALENDAR................FEBRUARY, 2009........Page 4

SUN

MON

TUES

WED

THURS

FRI

SAT
15 16
President's Day

Marine Corps League Meeting-Folsom		 17
VVA500 General Meeting		 18 19 20 21
Marine Cadet Training Day
22
Washington's Birthday
Operation Junction City Began-1967		 23
Post-Tet Offensive Began - 1969
Desert Storm Ground War Began 1991		 24
Mardi Gras		 25
Ash Wednesday		 26 27 28
"The Road to Unafraid" - See Page 6
 
NOMINATIONS ACCEPTED THIS MONTH FOR VVA500 OFFICERS, BOARD MEMBERS, STATE DELEGATE, AND AVVA REP.   MARK YOUR CALENDARS!
ST. PATRICK'S DAY PARADE?- MARCH 17
WELCOME HOME VIETNAM VETERANS DAY CELEBRATED-MARCH 28
 

MARCH, 2009

SUN

MON

TUES

WED

THURS

FRI

SAT
1 2
Raid on Vietnam Began - 1965		 3
VVA Board Meeting		 4
Operation Utah Began - 1966		 5 6
World Day of Prayer		 7
Marine Cadet Training Day
8
Daylight Savings Time Begins		 9 10 11
Operation Resolve to Win Began 1968		 12 13 14
15
VA Cabinet Position Established 1989 American Legion Established 1919		 16 17
NO GENERAL MEETING
ST. PATRICK'S DAY PARADE 		18
Operation Breakfast Began 1969		 19
Operation Iraqi Freedom - 2003		 20
First Day of Spring		 21
Marine Cadet Training Day
22
Tuskegee Airman Activated - 1941		 23 24 25 26 27 28
"Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day"
29 30 31        

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THE CAPITOL VETERAN................FEBRUARY, 2009........Page 5

UPDATE ON SGT. SAM FROM HIS DAD ERIC

  Sam is Sleepy_1_19_2009Erin reports that Sam is so fun lately.  His clever and often unexpected sense of humor shines through and it it just delightful.  (the) Monday afternoon when I was there, Erin was still wearing a surgical mask around Sam so their contact wouldn't result in catching Erin's cold.  Erin was just heading to the restroom, but Sam wanted a parting kiss.  Erin feels bad that all she could do was kiss his hand; so I asked if I could kiss him instead; and he looked at me rather funny.  He held up his thumb and index finger close together to signal "just a little one"...Ha!  Sam has always had a dry sense of humor with the ability to say something so funny; and deliver it with barely a smile or change in expression.  It doesn't seem that foreign to me now to hear or see Sam do something hilarious and not even crack a smile.  One evening as Erin was preparing to leave for the evening, she asked Sam if there was anything she could do for him before she left...He said to her, "Why don't you sleep right here?" motioning to the side of his bed...Erin said it tore at her heart...On Saturday, when I arrived, Sam was sleepy and subdued, but at total peace.  He was comfortable and had no aches or pains; and just rested there with his eyes closed.  He managed a wave hello when I got there, but quickly went back o a much deserved and needed nap.  (See the picture). 

FOR NEW READERS - WHY SGT. SAM?

     For those of you new to the newsletter, Sgt. Sam, USMC upon serving his 2nd tour in Iraq was severely wounded in July of 2007, and not expected to live.  Julie Neria from Bugles Across America who has performed taps for the chapter at many events throughout the years, most recently at our "Reading of the Names" in May of this year is Sam's mother-in-law.  Sam's wife Erin, is Julie's daughter.  We keep track of Sgt. Sam's progress so all are made aware of the struggle our wounded and their families must endure while recovering and making their way back to a normal life as possible depending upon their injuries.  You can view the history of Sam's struggle by going to Julie's husband, Tony's blog at:  www.tneria01.wordpress.com.  You can send your wishes to Sam and his family from there.

                                MEMBER MISCELLANEOUS
►►►Joe Cavanagh passed along this link.  There is a wealth of information re:  Vietnam Veteran issues, history, etc. Check it out.  http://www-static.cc.gatech.edu/fac/Thomas.Pilsch/Vietnam.html
►►►Tina Haas is throwing out all of her L'Oreal, and other products under the L'Oreal brand an is urging a boycott of L'Oreal products.  It seems that while Tina was in Portugal she found that our old friend Hanoi Jane Fonda is appearing in commercials there promoting L'Oreal products.
►►►Known for tracking them down and gathering his Wolfhounds across the United States and also for being a "really good guy",  "Easy" Smith is now the President of the 27th Inf. Reg. Historical  Society.  Congratulations Easy!!                              

 

AFTER ACTION REPORT

1/17 - Members Harper, Guimbellot, Mason and E.D. McNeill joined the family and many friends at VFW Post #85 for the Memorial Service for AMVETS Service Officer Bob Smith.
1/20 - VVA500 held their regular General Meeting.  Dan Sebby, Director and Curator of the CA Military Museum gave a presentation re:  the many functions and services provided by the museum.
1/22 - Board Member Harper and E.D. McNeill attended the training for the upcoming Sacramento County Homeless Count.  AVVA member Nitsche also attended the training on a different date.
1/24-25 - Vice-President McNeill, Treasurer Quint attended the quarterly CA State Council Meeting in Fresno.
1/27 - Board Member Harper, AVVA member Nitsche and E.D. McNeill participated in the Sacramento County Homeless Count.
1/31 - As members of the 20th Anniversary Planning Committee, VP McNeill, Harper, Kauffman, Puntillo attended the After-Action Meeting for the 20th Anniversary event.
2/3 - VVA500 held their regular Board Meeting
2/12 - E.D. McNeill attended a Conference Call Meeting for VSO's at the VBA office in Sacramento.

                                 NEW MEMBER BONUS
    As of January all new members will receive a Memorial Anniversary Hat and a VVA pin.  For existing members who bring in a new member, they will receive a pin of their choice.
     Some of the benefits of membership are our monthly newsletters which contain up to date information on benefits and Veteran issues, general meetings that have speakers of interest and benefit to the Veteran community, several events each year where Veterans can meet and communicate with each other, speaks for Veterans on state and local Veteran issues, alerts Veterans to other organizations' events and services,  a quarterly state publication, and the National VVA publication.  The VVA National organization speaks before Congress on a regular basis for Veterans in Washington D.C. before the Congress.
     VVA is a non-profit organization, therefore membership dues are tax deductible.  Dues are $20. per year, $50. for three years and life memberships are determined by age.  Services provided far outweigh the minimal amount of membership dues.  
     Veterans who call the office for direction to resources and services receive a free VVA500 newsletter for several months.  Letters will be going out soon to those to invite them to join VVA500. If anyone needs membership applications, you can call  or e-mail the office or download applications off the website.  Contact information and website address is on the back page of the newsletter.

                                           SICK CALL
►►►Joe Feirl had some minor surgery completed, but has to have knee surgery whenever VA can schedule it.
►►►Andy Anderson, B.T.'s Radio Man recently had surgery on his shoulder, painful, but improving.
      SEND GOOD THOUGHTS TO ALL WHO ARE AILING!

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THE CAPITAL VETERAN..........FEBRUARY,  2009........Page 6

REMEMBERING GEORGE BOUCHARD
May 30, 1949 - January 28, 2009

     One of the saddest things we had to report last month and now in the newsletter is the sudden passing away of one of our most loved members, George Bouchard.
      While George suffered from MS for many years, he did very well except for a few memory lapses that we all enjoyed.  George would always say, "I might have told you this already, but".........and he would continue on with his story that we had probably heard many times before.  George did remember his time in Vietnam well.  He enlisted into the Army in August, 1971.  He spent his time on base, at Phuoc Vinh maintaining helicopters.  George often said, that was one of the best times of his life.  He enjoyed his time there.  Picture is of George with his Mama San in Vietnam.
      Another best thing in George's life was marrying his wife Judy. whom he loved with all of his heart.  There were a couple of things that George never forgot; when the Get-A-Way was coming up and that Judy's birthday was just before it.  He also enjoyed coming to the State Fair each year and spending the day with all of the members that came throughout the day and evening to visit and help man the VVA500 booth. 
     But the Get-A-Way was his major event of the year.  George brought the snacks each year. So Judy would pack up the snacks and George and he was ready for a weekend with his brothers and sisters at the campfire. By the time the Christmas party came along each year, he was already thinking about the next year's  Get-A-Way coming up in October.
     Judy also faithfully brought him to the monthly meetings and the Christmas parties, even though they had moved to Live Oak.  But she knew he enjoyed being with his Vietnam brothers and sisters.  So, we thank Judy for letting him be with us as long as he could.  We will miss him and there will be a big empty spot in all of our hearts at meetings, the fair and the Get-A-Way.
     The chapter is arranging for a brick to be placed in his honor at the Veterans Memorial Plaza, at Mather Hospital.


George, his brother-in-law and Judy at the 2008 Christmas Party.  Thanks to Grace  Calles for the picture.  Services are being arranged.
 

"THE ROAD TO UNAFRAID"

     The Law Enforcement Chaplaincy Sacramento will be hosting a breakfast with Captain Jeff Struecker on Saturday, February 28.
     A decorated member of the U.S. Army's most elite fighting corps, Army Rangers, Jeff Struecker was prominently featured in the national best-seller "Black Hawk Down" which was later made into a major motion picture.  He was forced to rely on his skills and his "bullet-proof faith" to bring him through some of the most intense combat the U.S. Military has seen since the Vietnam War.
     Captain Struecker's combat experience includes participation in operations in Panama, Kuwait, Mogadishu, Somalia, multiple tours in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and Operation Iraqi Freedom as well as others.  He has received numerous medals and awards for his service in the United States Army and in 1996 the team of Jeff Struecker and Issac Gmazel were named the "Best Ranger."
     In 2000 Jeff Struecker was commissioned as a Chaplain.  A man of courage and conviction, Jeff Struecker uses his personal story of survival on the battlefield to teach others how they, too, can be prepared for any circumstances life has to offer.  His book, "The Road to Unafraid," tells how the Army's top Ranger faced fear and found courage through Black Hawk Down and beyond.
     You can register to attend through the
Law Enforcement Chaplaincy Sacramento
10388 Rockingham Drive - Sacramento, CA 95827
916-857-1801 - Fax 916-857-1805 or e-mail at:
admin@sacchaplains.com - Price:  $25. in advance
$30. at the door.
Chap. Note - The chaplains at the Law Enforcement Chaplaincy have assisted VVA500 many times throughout the years by blessing our many events and truly serve our community during times of crisis.  Please try to attend and support a Chaplaincy event as well as being able to meet one of our military heroes.

OPERATION RECOGNITION

     Qualifying Veterans and Seniors may receive belated high school diplomas.  The Sacramento County Office of Education wants to honor the many contributions of local Veterans.  Those Veterans who left high school to serve in the U.S. military during WWII, Korean War, Vietnam War, were honorably discharged, and those Japanese American citizens who were forced to leave high school due to WWII internment are eligible if they would have graduated from a Sac County High School.  Individuals or families of those deceased may apply.  Application deadline is May 8, 2009.  The ceremony awarding the diplomas will take place May 26.  VVA500 has applications or call 916-228-2416 or visit the website:  www.wcoe.net/or.

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THE CAPITOL VETERAN................FEBRUARY, 2009........Page 7

VA HOME LOAN RELIEF

     Veterans having trouble making their mortgage problems may benefit from enhanced VA Mortgage Options signed into law in October, 2008.  From the VA website, here are the details:
     "Veterans with conventional home loans now have new options for refinancing to a Department of Veterans Affairs guaranteed home loan.  These new options are available as a result of the Veterans' Benefits Improvement Act of 2008, which the President (Bush) signed into law on October 10, 2008.
     "These changes will allow VA to assist a substantial number of veterans with subprime mortgages refinance into a safer, more affordable, VA guaranteed loan," said (then) Secretary of Veterans Affairs Dr. James B. Peake.  "Veterans in financial distress due to high rate subprime mortgages are potentially the greatest beneficiaries."
     VA has never guaranteed subprime loans.  However, as a result of the new law VA can now help many more veterans who currently have subprime loans.
     The new law makes changes to VA's home loan refinancing program.  Veterans who wish to refinance their subprime of conventional mortgage may now do so for up to 100 percent of the value of the property.  These types of loans were previously limited to 90 percent of the value.
     Additionally, Congress raised VA's maximum loan amount for these types of refinancing loans.  Previously, these refinancing loans were capped at $144,-00.  With the new legislation, such loans may  be made up to $729,750.  depending on where the property is located.
     Increasing the loan-to-value ratio and raising the maximum loan amount will allow more qualified veterans to refinance through VA, allowing for savings on interest costs or even potentially avoiding foreclosure.
     Originally set to expire at the end of this month, VA's authority to guaranty Adjustable Rate Mortgages (ARMS) and Hybrid ARMs was also extended under this new law through September 30, 2012.  Unlike conventional ARMs and hybrid ARMs, VA limits interest rate increases on these loans from year to year, as well as over the life of the loans.  Since 1944, when home loan guaranties were offered with the original GI Bill, VA has guaranteed more than 18 million home loans worth over $911 billion.  This year, (2008) about 180,000 veterans, active duty servicemembers, and survivors received loans valued at about $36 billion. 
     For more information, or to obtain help from a VA Loan Specialist, veterans may call VA at 1-877-827-3702 or visit www.homeloans.va.gov.
     Chapter note:  If you do have internet access, the VA Home Loan website has a wealth of information regarding eligibility, the criteria for obtaining a loan, appraisal information, etc.  The site also has a link to refer you to Ginnie Mae where there is a calculator to estimate what home you can afford.  Of course, VA will also guarantee the purchase of a new home along with the above refinancing.  If you have not been able to afford a home, this may be the time to buy as unfortunately for others, many bargains are now on the market.

  

    DUCKWORTH TAPPED FOR
VA ASSISTANT SECRETARY

     Washington - President Barack Obama has announced his intent to nominate L. Tammy Duckworth, director of the Illinois department of Veterans Affairs, to be the Assistant Secretary of Public and Intergovernmental Affairs for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
     "Effective communications with Veterans and VA's stakeholders is key to improving our services and ensuring Veterans receive the benefits they deserve," said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki.  "Tammy Duckworth brings significant talent, leadership and personal experience to this important work.".
     As assistant secretary, Duckworth will direct VA's public affairs, internal communications and intergovernmental relations.  She also will oversee programs for homeless veterans, consumer affairs and special rehabilitative events.
     Background:  She is serving as a major in the Illinois National Guard and was previously deployed to Operation Iraqi Freedom where, as a captain, she was assistant operations officer for a 500 soldier aviation task force.  She also served as a logistics officer and company commander.  As a helicopter pilot flying combat missions in 2004, she suffered grave injuries when her helicopter was struck by a rocket-propelled grenade, losing both legs and partial use of one arm.
     Duckworth earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Hawaii and a master's degree from George Washington University in Washington, D.C.  Born in Thailand, she is the daughter of a U.S. Marine who fought in Vietnam.  She is married to Iraq war Veteran and National Guard Officer, Major Bryan Bowlsbey.

GOULD NOMINATED FOR DEPUTY SECRETARY OF VA

     Washington - VA Secretary Eric K. Shinseki praised President Obama's intent to nominate W. Scott Gould as next Deputy Secretary of Veterans Affairs.  Gould is currently vice-president for public sector strategy at IBM Global Business Services and a former intelligence officer in the naval reserve.  He has also  worked CEO for The O'Gara Company and as Chief Operating Officer or Exolve. as well as in the Commerce and Treasury Department and in the White House Chief of Staff office.
     As a naval reservist, Gould served at sea aboard the guided missile destroyer Richard E. Byrd and as assistant professor of naval science at Rochester University.  He was recalled to active duty for both Operation Noble Eagle and Enduring Freedom as a naval intelligence reservist.
     During President Obama's campaign and after his election, Gould was co-chair of the National Veterans Policy Team, Obama for America, and co-chair of the Veterans Agency Review Team for the Presidential Transition Team.
     He holds a bachelor of arts degree from Cornell University and a masters in business administration and a doctorate in education from the University of Rochester.  Gould is married to Michele A. Flournoy, and they have three children.

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THE CAPITOL VETERAN FEBRUARY, 2009........Page 8

  RUMOR CONTROL

Chap. Note - We have received e-mails on this subject, so thought the issue needed clearing up before a lot of people get stressed over something that has no back-up in fact.  Any kind of plan or option addressed in these e-mails would have to go through many channels, legislation, etc. before it ever saw the light of day.  If you keep track of federal legislation presented for veterans, you would be hard pressed to find any that are asking for a reduction in veteran benefits.  

FROM THE www.vawatchdog.org

     There is no "Obama Plan" to cut veterans' benefits.  An e-mail making the rounds in the veterans' community warns of this sinister "plan" to cut benefits, and make vets', retirees and active-duty military pay (or pay more) for their healthcare.  Then, this money that is saved will be used to pay for "other programs".. whatever that means.
     The underlying premise for this nonsense is a recent report by the Congressional Budget Office (CBO).  Their web site is here:  www.cbo.gov/ .  The report, one of a series that are cranked out regularly, is titled Budget Options, Volume 1:  Health Care.  The report is here:  www.cbo.gov/doc.cfm?index=9925.
     The CBO is a non-partisan arm of Congress that is"....charged with reviewing congressional budgets and other legislative initiatives with budgetary implications."  They do not work for the President or any political party.
     Our nonsense e-mail claims the above-mentioned CBO report is an "Obama" report.  Actually, the report was released in December of 2008 and was put together in the last few months of the Bush administration.  Just like it has nothing to do with Obama...it has nothing to do with Bush.
     It is just a report, one o many, that explores budget "options"...that is all.  It is not policy.  It is not a plan.  The report offers "options" such as:  If Congress does this, they can save money.  If Congress does that, they can enhance revenues.  Because this report deals with government healthcare, veterans, retirees and military are included.  And, the report offers "options" that do include, simply put, higher fees and fewer benefits.  But remember.  This is the kind of report that gets a quick glance and ends up on the shelf with "options" disregarded.
     Congress has seen reports like this before and ignored them.  The Obama administration has no intention of cutting veterans' benefits.  (You can view the Administration's agenda for veterans here:  www.whitehouse.gov/agenda/veterans/.  (So, if this e-mail, which is nothing more than a scare tactic, comes your way...just e-mail the sender this.      Larry Scott - VA Watchdog

     The internet and e-mail, it can be a blessing and a bane at the same time, because................

"A RUMOR WITHOUT A LEG TO STAND ON WILL GET AROUND SOME OTHER WAY", John Tudor. 
    

 

HOMELESS UPDATES from E.D. McNeill

     On January 27, Board Member Don Harper, AVVA member Rhona Nitsche and E.D. Mary Lou McNeill participated in the annual Sacramento County Homeless Count.  It was a new experience for all of us.  We attended a training session the week before and fully prepped on how to survey and count individuals for the purposes of getting a correct count and to determine the characteristics of the homeless. The numbers and characteristics are important in order to submit for funding from government sources.  Over 400 volunteers from all walks of life participated in the count.
     We reported for our duties at 8:00PM at the DHA offices.  We were signed in and then assigned to a group with a formerly homeless Veteran lady Rhona and I recognized from Stand Down, now in transitional housing, and a police officer assigned to the group and accompanied us on our homeless finding mission.  An aside note, we said "hello" to CDVA Secretary Tom Johnson who was assisting those signing in.  Then we were on our way.  We were assigned to a Rancho Cordova area and we searched mostly an industrial area for approximately three hours, but found only one very small area that might have been a camp.  Upon returning to the DHA offices, our group was debriefed re:  the evening and the process.  Of course we had mixed emotions, it was good that we didn't find any homeless, but almost seemed like we didn't accomplish anything except some sore feet.  But, we were told that the object is not only to find the homeless, but also to gain knowledge of where they were not found.
    Recently we have been seeing more and more reports on the increase of the Veterans population becoming homeless.  Several reasons can account for this.  Of course, the economy can account for much of the increase.  We also have a number of new Veterans coming home, not finding work, possibly having PTSD or physical problems and ending up on the street.  The same thing is happening to older Veterans.  Taking just Sacramento County as an example here are some facts.  The Homeless Count covers 76 areas of Sacramento County.  It will take about six weeks to organize all of the data acquired.
     The 2007 count yielded 2,452 homeless of which 16% were Veterans.  The 2008 count was 2,678 total of which 19.3% were Veterans.  Now, you can take all of the numbers apart between chronically homeless, new homeless, etc., but the bottom line is homelessness of any sort is increasing for Veterans.  These numbers do not take into account those who were not counted and may be spending a night here and there or on the couches of friends,  those incarcerated, in mental or alcohol/drug treatment facilities.
     Recent 2008 statistics from the CA Department of Veterans Affairs indicate that there are 103,000 Veterans in Sacramento County out of 2,078,000 residing in the state.  So, from these figures could assume the 19.3% of Veterans considered homeless by the count would mean that 19, 879 Veterans in Sacramento County are homeless.  I don't think we can take it that far, but fact is, the homeless Veteran population is growing with no increase of available housing for them.  There is some consideration going on about establishing an official Tent City for the homeless.  It will be interesting to see how serious our government leaders are in solving this growing problem.  

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THE CAPITOL VETERAN................FEBRUARY, 2009........Page 9

CA MILITARY MUSEUM DIRECTOR AND CURATOR, MAYOR JOHNSON VETERAN REPRESENTATIVE,  DAN SEBBY SPEAKS AT THE JANUARY MEETING

JOE CAVANAGH RECEIVES AND AWARD FOR SERVING AS VVA500's ROSEVILLE VETERANS MEMORIAL HALL BOARD REPRESENTATIVE

AVVA MEMBERS, GRACE CALLES, FRAN KEHOE, RHONA NITSCHE MAN THE MEMORIAL SALES BOOTH

 

GERARD FIELDS AND ALAN HAYASHI PREPARE TO PRESENT THE BEAUTIFUL WREATH DONATED BY AL SHUSTERMAN OF MT. VERNON AT THE MEMORIAL ANNIVERSARY CEREMONY

CHAPLAIN FRANK RUSSELL FROM THE SAC LAW ENFORCEMENT CHAPLAINCY OPENS ONE DAY OF THE ANNIVERSARY "READING OF THE NAMES"

VP McNEILL PRESENTS "BUNKER" OWNER RON TEXERIA WITH A MEMORIAL COIN AT THE VVA BAR-B-QUE

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THE CAPITOL VETERAN............FEBRUARY, 2009........Page 10

                                    CHAPTER INFORMATION
 OFFICERS:  President:  Karen Anne Winnett
Vice President:  Gregory McNeill
Secretary:  Ted Adams
Treasurer:  Jerry Quint
BOARD MEMBERS:  Hank Davis, Don Harper, Monty Montoya
ADDRESS:  Vietnam Veterans of America, Inc., Chapter 500
                                            P.O. Box 255484
                                           Sacramento, CA 95865
TELEPHONE:                 916-481-6020
E-MAIL:                          vva500@sbcglobal.net
CHAPTER WEBSITE: www.norcaltrav.com/vva500.htm
FOR INFORMATION:  Call or e-mail, Executive Director,
                                           Mary Lou McNeill
NEWSLETTER SUBMISSIONS:  Mail to Chapter address or e-mail information.  Please send pictures in jpeg form.
VVA Chapter 500 is a non-profit organization, #68-0208305, CT#75945, United Way #12583.  All donations to support our projects such as our Scholarship Fund, Helping Hands Fund, Events for Veterans, and Honor Guard will be gratefully appreciated.  You may earmark your donation to the project you wish to support.
 DIRECTIONS  to the Roseville Veterans Memorial Hall.  From I-80.  Take the Douglas West exit.  Go to the third light which is Folsom Rd.  Turn right, go to the second stop sign, which is Sutter, turn left, follow the curve, you will see a sign on the right and left that says "Royer Park", turn left there.  You will immediately see the hall to the right and the parking lot.  That's it.  Meeting room is downstairs.  When you leave, the street is one way, so you will go to the right.  You will come up to Douglas Blvd. again and a left will go back to the freeway and whichever direction you need to go from there.

   

HAPPY BIRTHDAY! 
FEBRUARY  BIRTHDAYS           
     ♫♫♫Walt Williams-AVVA♫♫♫BG Ezell Ware, Jr. - Marines♫♫♫George Vargas, Jr. - Army♫♫♫Robert Condit, Jr. - Navy♫♫♫Dennis Witt - Army♫♫♫Dennis Whitt - Army♫♫♫Gregory McNeill - Marines♫♫♫John Steelman - Air Force♫♫♫James Farmer - Army♫♫♫and Ted Adams - Army who we missed in January.

     If your birthday is this month and not listed, we may not have your DD214 on file, or maybe just inadvertently missed it.  Let us know and we'll check it out.

WELCOME HOME NEW MEMBERS!
Eddie and Deborah Getz, AVVA members,
Michael Simmons, D.C. - Army


 HELP SUPPORT OUR SCHOLARSHIP FUND
CALL TOLL FREE FOR PICK UP OF YOUR USED HOUSEHOLD ITEMS:  1-866-241-8387    



Vietnam Veterans of America, Inc.                                                                                                               
 Sacramento Valley's Chapter 500
 P.O. Box 255484
 Sacramento, CA 95865                    
 916-481-6020 - vva500@sbcglobal.net
                                  
         ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
      

 


 

 

"NEVER AGAIN WILL ONE GENERATION OF VETERANS ABANDON ANOTHER"

 

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