welcoming in 2011c what’sthe newsletter of the new england chapter paralyzed veterans ofjanuary...
TRANSCRIPT
InsideWhat’s
Dec. RaffleWinners
2
GovernmentRelations Report
4
Service OfficersReport
5
Sports & Recreation
6
New England VA News
8
Job Opening9
VA News12
Phot
o: H
arle
y Fr
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The NewsleTTer of The New eNglaNd ChapTer paralyzed VeTeraNs of ameriCaJanuary 2011 Vol. LXI, #1
a member ChapTer of The paralyzed VeTeraNs of ameriCa – CharTered by The CoNgress of The uNiTed sTaTes
CORD WORDCORD WORD
On December 15th, NEPVA Officers, Board of Directors and staff gathered to celebrate the holidays. Shown front (left to right): Charles Schena, Walter Farrington, Debra Freed, Neal Williams, Wayne Ross, Peter Moore, Jim Wallack, John Brako and Brad Carlson; rear (left to right): PVA NSO II John Stansbury, Maureen (Moe) Morrison, Jeri Farinella, PVA Senior Benefits Advocate Joe Badzmierowski, PVA Service Office Secretary Ann Marie Wallace, Dustin Soroka, Kathy Carlson, and Judy Goldstein (absent from photo: NEPVA President Craig Cascella).
Welcoming in 2011
Chapter President Craig Cascella has
been way-laid by illness and was
not able to submit an article for the
January newsletter. We hope 2011 will prove to
be healthier for everyone.
The NEPVA Chapter has one of the best records
of working with National Service Offices at
Togus and Boston. It also has the reputation
of working with VISN 1’s SCI Chief Dr. Sunil
Sabharwal and his staff. A recent PVA site visit
was/is proof that issues regarding the health and
wellbeing of SCI/D veterans and veterans in
general are taken seriously and complaints are
addressed in a timely manner. Another group
that must be mentioned are NEPVA’s Board of
Directors, staff, and volunteers. Without their
time and dedication, NEPVA would not be able
to maintain its numerous programs and services
that support our members throughout New
England.
A small way to say thank you was by treating
the NEPVA BOD, staff, PVA service office
employees, and volunteers to an outstanding
Christmas dinner celebration on December
15th (see photo). Additional Christmas parties
sponsored by NEPVA were held at the SCI
Unit A-2, West Roxbury VAMC on December
14th, and Building 8 Brockton VAMC on
December 16th. Our thanks go out to all of
the VA staff and volunteers who purchased and
served the refreshments. Additional NEPVA
funded Christmas parties were also held for
SCI/D patients at Northampton, MA VAMC,
West Haven, CT VAMC and Manchester, NH
VAMC. continued on page 12
Cord Word January 2011
www.nepva.org
PARALYZED VETERANS of AMERICA
NEW ENGLAND CHAPTERNEPVA ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE
1600 PROVIDENCE HIGHWAY-SUITE 143WALPOLE, MA 02081
TEL: (508) 660-1181, 1-(800) 660-1181FAX: (508) 668-9412; e-mail: [email protected]
web: www.nepva.orgOffice Hours: Monday-Friday 9:00am-4:30pm
NEPVA OFFICERSPresident, Craig CascellaVice President, Debra FreedSecretary, Debra FreedTreasurer, Charles SchenaNational Director, Craig Cascella
EXECUTIVE BOARD John BrakoBrad CarlsonWalter FarringtonPeter Moore Wayne RossDustin SorokaJim WallackNeal Williams
NATIONAL SERVICE OFFICEPARALYZED VETERANS OF AMERICA
BOSTON VA REGIONAL OFFICEJ.F.K. FEDERAL BUILDING - Room - 1575 C
BOSTON, MA 02203TEL: (617) 303-1395 & 1-800-795-3607
Fax: (617) 723-7467
Sr. Benefits Advocate, Joseph E. BadzmierowskiSenior Secretary, Ann Marie Wallace
Cord Word is published twelve times a year by the New England Chapter Paralyzed Veterans of America, 1600 Providence Hwy., Suite 143, Walpole, MA 02081 in the interest of Chapter members. Membership in NEPVA entitles you to a free subscription to Cord Word. Articles published in Cord Word do not necessarily reflect the views of the Paralyzed Veterans of America, New England Chapter. NEPVA neither endorses nor guarantees any of the products or services advertised herein. Postmaster: send changes of address to NEPVA, 1600 Providence Hwy., Suite 143, Walpole, MA 02081
Monthly meetings are held every first Wednesday of the month at the NEPVA office in Walpole, Ma. The executive board meets at 10:30 a.m. Followed by the regular membership meeting at 1:00 p.m.
PROGRAM DIRECTORSDevelopment Director, Craig CascellaMembership Officer, Craig CascellaMS Liaison, John BrakoCommunity Outreach, Mike GuilbaultNEPVA Peer Mentor Rep., Mike GuilbaultScholarship Chairman, Craig CascellaSports Director, Brad CarlsonAssistant Sports Director, Mike GuilbaultBass Trail Liaison, Jim WallackWeb Master, Thomas DoddWomen Veterans’ Liaison, Debra FreedVolunteer Chairman, Judy Goldstein
Hospital Liaisons Brockton, MA VAMC, Craig CascellaWest Roxbury, MA VAMC, Craig CascellaNorthampton, MA VAMC, Tim KellyProvidence, RI VAMC, Craig CascellaManchester, NH VAMC, Walter Farrington West Haven, CT VAMC, Richard FranoWhite River Jct, VT VAMC, Al FentonTogus, ME VAMC, Neal Williams
STAFFCord Word Editor, Judy GoldsteinGovernment Relations Director, Debra FreedAdministrative Assistant, Judy GoldsteinBookkeeper, Jeri FarinellaCord Word Design, Harley Freedman
2
PVA NATIONAL SERVICE OFFICETOGUS, VARO, 1 VA CENTER
BLDG 248, ROOM 112AUGUSTA, ME 04330
Serving maine, new HampSHire and vermont
TEL:(207) 621-7394, FAX: (207) 621-4829TOLL FREE: 866-795-1911
National Service Officer II, John StansburySecretary, Wendy Glidden
DECEMBERRafflE WInnERs
$1000William Townsend
Naples, FL
$ 600Larry Frey
Norwood, MA
$ 300Michele Delle Fave
Warwick RI
$ 100Edward D. Slattery
Port Orange, FL
$ 100Roger BergeronFairhaven, MA
$ 100Rodney Wright
Westminster, CO
$ 50Hubbard SmithAmherst, MA
$ 50Ken StidsenSterling, MA
$ 50Thomas M. Sullivan
Rangeley, ME
$ 50Lois D. Collette
Gardner, MA
Cord Word
www.nepva.org
January 2011
3continued on page 10
By Debra A. Freed
Before I move forward please allow
me to welcome everyone into 2011.
I do sincerely hope that your holidays
were bright and festive. I would also
like to comment that the NEPVA
President was ill during the last half
of December. It was expected that he
would make a full recovery and he will
again put pen to paper and update you
all in the February issue.
Many people knew that I was taking
a European vacation. What they may
not have known is how. It was called
Christmas Markets along the Rhine.
The Rhine River flows from the Swiss
Alps to the Netherlands, and is one of
the longest and most important rivers
in Europe, about 1,232 km (766 mi),
with an average discharge of more than
2,000 m/s (71,000 cu ft/s).
As an incomplete paraplegic I get
around using assistive devices, a cane,
crutches or a wheelchair. How much
walking and/or how many stairs can be
accomplished in a day are based on how
much I have annoyed my arachnoiditis.
So, yes, I have to pick and choose how
to get from point A to point B with the
least amount of pain and discomfort
and still enjoy the activity at hand.
We could go online and check out
the ship. The River Rhapsody has five
decks. Almost all decks were accessible
through stairs or an elevator. However,
the elevator did not go up to the Sun
Deck. To my great surprise, the ship
did indeed have a chair lift on the port
(left side facing the bow or front) of the
ship to take people up and down if they
wanted to spend time on the Sun deck.
I knew well in advance this trip would
not be nearly as accessible as it might
be if it were in the U.S. I was willing to
take that chance. Areas that may have
been considered non-accessible were
very minor. Getting on and off the ship
for the day’s excursion into a port town
may not be easy for a true wheelchair
user, but it could have been done. The
crew, the program directors, and other
guests were always willing to lend a
hand if necessary.
There are stairs leading to all of the
decks so during the emergency drill
training, I was required to do the stairs.
The hallways of the ship were wide
enough for two people to walk side by
side comfortably. The housekeeping
staff recognized that their carts would
inhibit wheelchair access if parked in a
place where the
hall narrowed a
little. They were
quite gracious
in remembering
to put the carts
in an area of the
hall area that
afforded as much room as possible for
anyone.
The public areas, the lounge, reception,
and the dining hall were all accessible.
The dining hall has two levels. There
was enough seating on the top level of
the dining room to permit a wheelchair
user to share meals with others. Again,
the wait staff was wonderful, as were
the guests.
The only true obstacle I found could
possibly be the bathroom. There are
no accessible rooms on the River
Rhapsody. The bathroom was the
same for everyone. The bathroom door
opened to reveal a two-inch lip into the
bathroom. Then to access the shower,
there was another 1-inch lip. On many
ships and boats one will find where
sections are divided by these raised
areas. It would have been very difficult
to access the bathroom area unless one
was quite adept at “jumping curbs.”
Now the towns and cities we visited
were many. We chose to relax on
the day we stopped in Heidelberg,
not because it wasn’t accessible but
because by then it had pretty much
been non-stop since arriving in Basel,
Switzerland. Most of the towns and
cities had some form of brick or
cobblestone driveways or walkways.
Some of these actually make Boston
look tame. It was bumpy to say the least
and small front casters did not fare well
in such conditions.
Unplugged: Accessible Travel outside the U.S.
Cord Word January 2011
www.nepva.org4
by Debra Freed
Government Relations DirectorGovernment Relations
NEPVA Vice President Debra Freed (right) poses with Brigadier General Wilma Vaught, who was the keynote speaker at the Making Connections: Supporting Women who have Served in the Military luncheon, held at the Tip O’Neill Federal Building on November 17th. General Vaught is the first woman to make the rank of General, and she is currently the President of the Board of Directors of the Women In Military Service For America Memorial Foundation, Inc.
Well, the holidays have
rolled past and a new year
has rolled in. Along with
the New Year comes a new Congress.
What will that mean for our members,
veterans, and the disabled community?
The weekend of December 10th – 12th
was a training/working weekend for
PVA Chapter Presidents and Executive
Directors in Dallas, TX. Chapters were
permitted to send two people to the
PVA seminar even if the chapter does
not have an executive director. The
training is turning out to be invaluable.
Friday evening opened with a small
welcome reception. Training sessions
would begin Saturday morning and end
Sunday later afternoon around 5pm.
There were four break-out sessions each
day. All attendees would be presented
each of the sessions on a rotating basis.
Sessions ranged from the dreaded IRS
990 to internet advertising.
One session dealt with non-profits
and Congressional oversight. Non-
profits fall under the purview of the
State Attorney General and Secretary
of State. Three
states have very
strict requirements
concerning non-
profits: California,
Iowa, and
Massachusetts. The
Internal Revenue
Service (IRS) has
also increased its oversight. One way is
through a company’s 990. The 990 is
a business’s 1040. There are variations
to a 990. It depends on the level of
the non-profit. There are 501(c)(3)s,
501(c)(4)s, 501(c)14s, 501(c)(19), etc.
So, it remains extremely important to
file the correct 990 and the schedules
that go with it. Congress along with the
IRS and State Attorney Generals will
not accept the notion that one didn’t
know!
Another session provided attendees with
an updated version of the Governance
Series, a set of six small handbooks
ranging from Ten Basic Responsibilities
of Nonprofit Boards to Mission,
Planning, and Evaluation. These were
presented to the NEPVA Board and
each member requested a copy. This
proves the NEPVA Board takes their
responsibilities
seriously. As
stated above, they
understand there is
no such thing as “I
didn’t know!”
The last session was an open session
concerning fundraising and why PVA
requires prior notification of chapter
fundraising
projects. In part,
it is because
PVA/NEPVA
are considered
public charities.
Transparency
is key when
competing with
thousands of other nonprofits for the
same dollar.
As a member chapter of PVA, PVA
is entitled to know anything and
everything. Although PVA does not
receive any funds from any Chapter
fundraising, it remains important to
be as transparent as possible. PVA does
not intend to steal away any fundraising
idea, but does have final say on whether
a fundraising opportunity is permitted
under PVA’s guidelines. On the other
hand, because of this requirement,
chapters learn what other chapters are
doing, what works, and what does not.
For instance, NEPVA was able to get
on the vehicle donation program and
earned over $32,000 in 2010. Also, it
helps to share ideas and opportunities
that may not be unique to any one
chapter.
PVA Chapter President’s & Executive Director’s Seminar
NEPVA was able to get
on the vehicle donation
program and earned over
$32,000 in 2010.
Cord Word
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January 2011
5
service Officer’s Report By Michael Kruse, Senior NSO, Buffalo, NY
continued on page 10
Vehicle Adaptations
Driving an automobile can be a complex
undertaking for most people. Consequently,
people with disabilities find this process even more
complex and challenging. Mastering the tasks involved in
driving may be quite difficult, in as such that the vehicle may
require adaptive equipment to meet the needs of a disabled
driver. Fortunately the Department of Veterans Affairs
Automobile Adaptive Equipment program enables eligible
veterans to safely enter, exit, and/or
operate a motor vehicle. The VA can
provide the necessary equipment
such as platform wheelchair lifts,
Under Vehicle Lifts (ULV), power
door openers, lowered floors/raised
roofs, raised doors, hand controls,
left foot gas pedals, reduced effort
and zero effort steering and braking,
air conditioning and digital driving systems when suitable.
The VA’s program also provides reimbursements for standard
equipment including, but not limited to, power steering,
power brakes, power windows, power seats and other special
equipment necessary for the safe operation of an approved
vehicle. CB radios and/or car phones will normally be
provided to veterans who have a loss or loss of use of either
both lower or both upper extremities, or a loss or loss of use
of one upper and one lower extremity. CB radios and/or car
phones may also be considered for veterans who have a loss or
loss of use of one lower extremity if the prescribing physician
believes that abandoning the vehicle would be impossible,
especially during adverse weather conditions. Other medical
conditions that should be considered as possibly creating a
special need associated with safe vehicular operation would
include, but not be limited to, cardiovascular, neurological or
pulmonary diseases.
The primary concern is for the safety of the veteran
and other people on our nation’s highways. To do this it
requires the cooperation of physicians, driver rehabilitation
specialists, and your local VA prosthetic representatives.
Qualified veterans are then trained through the VA’s Driver’s
Rehabilitation Program on how to safely operate their vehicle
on our nation’s highways.
What about repairs?
Routine service to normal wear items is not considered
a repair, such as brake shoes, drums & pads or other
adjustments (only the power booster).
Power Steering and Automatic
Transmission service or fluid refills are
not authorized (only the transmission
itself, or the power steering components).
The maximum reimbursement is for the
total amount of the certified invoice.
Repair costs for parts and labor are listed
in the current Mitchell Mechanical Parts
and Labor Estimating Guide for Domestic Cars. Towing is
not normally an authorized repair.
Authorization for, or reimbursement of, repairs is limited
to the vehicle(s) of record, and includes only those basic
components authorized as adaptive equipment. For example,
when power brakes are authorized, only repairs to the power
boost option may be approved. All repairs to conventional
components of the brake system, e.g., brake shoes or
pads, turning of brake drums, etc., are the responsibility
of the veteran. The same principle applies to automatic
transmissions, and power steering. Routine service such as
brake linings, front-end alignment, lubrication, etc., will not
be considered as repairs to adaptive equipment.
Who is eligible?
In order to be eligible for the Automobile Adaptive
Equipment program veterans must be either service
connected for the loss, or loss of use of one or both feet or
hands; or service connected alkalosis of one or both knees
or hips; or service connected for permanent impairment of
vision of both eyes that have a central acuity of 20/200.
Can the Department of Veterans Affairs help me to adapt my automobile?
In order to apply, the
VA policy requires that
automobile adaptive
equipment be issued by
a physician’s prescription.
Cord Word January 2011
www.nepva.org6
sports & Recreation by Brad Carlson Sports Director
Northeast Passage with members of the US National Sled Hockey Team in partnership with VA Boston Healthcare System are pleased to announce sled hockey clinics.
A seated version of hockey open to anyone having difficulty with stand up skating
Dates & Times: 9:30 am-12 pm(There are no fees for these clinics)January 16th & 30thFebruary 13th
Where: Nobles School Rink 10 Campus Drive Dedham, MA 02026
To sign up, please contact:
Thomas Carr, CTRS/LNortheast [email protected]
Kelly Cossaboom, CTRSVA Boston Healthcare [email protected]
2010-2011 SLED HOCKEY CLINICS
The Holidays are finally over and it is time for us to
kick it up a notch, there is a lot going on so please
enjoy some, if not all of these events.
NEPVA has been selected to host three U.S. National
events, which is very exciting, however a lot of work for
everyone involved and volunteers are needed for all events!!!
Our first event will be held in Nashua, NH at the Boston
Billiard Club, which will be our 2nd PVA National Billiard
Tournament. The dates of this event are April 15 thru 17th.
Players are desperately needed and everyone is invited to
this exciting event.
Our next event is The American Wheelchair Bowling
Association National Championships, to be held at
Westgate Lanes in Brockton, MA. The dates of this event
are June 20 thru 25th. This is the 50th AWBA National
Bowling Championship and it promises to be the premier
event of the year.
Our last PVA National event for 2011 is the PVA Bass Trail
tournament on Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire.
The dates of this PVA Tournament are September 16-18,
one week after the NEPVA Bass Tournament also on Lake
Winnipesaukee in Moultonborough, NH.
Finally, the 2011 National Veterans
Wheelchair Games will be held in
Pittsburgh on August 1-6. For those
who wish to be on the NEPVA team,
and receive partial funding, the
deadline for your registration packet
to be returned to the NEPVA office
is March 17th (no exceptions will
be made). Others not on the NEPVA team can send their
registration directly to PVA National by April 15th.
Please read upcoming Cord Word issues for more info on
each event. I am also working on several other projects that
include -- our first Trap Shoot Team, Horseback Riding, and
more Hand Cycle Clinics.
Starting in June, there will be weekly Adaptive Golf Clinics
throughout Massachusetts, along with monthly competitions.
All of our members are invited to attend. Anyone interested
should contact the NEPVA office. Get out there and support
your Chapter.
DCR Massachusetts Winter Sports–Universal Access Program
Adaptive SkatingFitzpatrick Skating Rink in HolyokeSaturdays-12:00pm-2:00pm- January 22, February 12, March 12, April 9
Buffone Skating Rink in WorcesterThursdays-various timesJanuary 20, February 17, March 17, April 14
Cronin Skating Rink in RevereTuesdays 11:30am-1:30pm- January 11, February 8, March 8, April 5
Outdoor skating at the Kelly Rink, Jamaica PlainTuesday, February 15 -11:00am-2:00pm
Call 413-577-3840 for info and to sign up.
Winter Festival at Dunn State ParkSaturday, February 5, 11:00am-3:00pm For details, and to register call 617-626-1294
For additional winter activities, visit: http://www.mass.gov/dcr/universal_access/docs/newsletter.pdf
Cord Word
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January 2011
7
PITTSBURGH 2011WHERE HEROES BECOME LEGENDS
National Host Sponsors
Presented by For More Information and Registration Materials Contact:Paralyzed Veterans of AmericaSports and Recreation Program(800) 424-8200, ext. 752 or 657,(800) 795-4327 (tty)
orVA Pittsburgh Healthcare SystemWilliam Leuthold(412) [email protected]
or visitwww.pva.org/nvwgwww.wheelchairgames.va.gov
Medal EventsAir GunsArcheryBasketballBowlingField EventsHandcyclingMotor RallyNine BallPower Soccer
Quad RugbySlalomSoftballSwimmingTable TennisTrackTrapshootingWeightlifting
Hosted by VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System and the Keystone Chapter Paralyzed Veterans of AmericaAUGUST 1–6, 2011
THE 31ST NATIONAL VETERANSWHEELCHAIR GAMES
THE 31ST NATIONAL VETERANSWHEELCHAIR GAMES
31st Games full-page ad_Layout 1 11/16/10 2:36 PM Page 1
Cord Word January 2011
www.nepva.org8
new England VaMC news
Flu Vaccine: Myths and Facts!
“People can die from the flu.” TRUEInfluenza is a serious respiratory disease that can lead to pneumonia. Each
year about 114,000 people in the U.S. are hospitalized with the flu and
approximately 36,000 people die because of the flu.
“The flu is just like a bad cold.” FALSEFlu is far more dangerous than just a bad cold. It is a serious respiratory
disease that can lead to pneumonia. People with SCI, at any age, have more
hospitalizations and death from flu related lung problems.
“The flu shot can give me the flu.” FALSEToday flu vaccines are made from killed influenza viruses. These cannot give
you the flu. Some people get a little soreness at the site of the shot which
goes away in a day or two.
“The vaccine isn’t 100% effective, so I’m better off getting the flu.” FALSENo vaccine is 100% effective. The vaccine protects most people from the flu.
If you get the flu vaccine and still get the flu, you are likely to be far less sick
than you would have been without the vaccine. This vaccine will not protect
you from other illnesses that feel like the flu.
“The side effects of the vaccine are worse than the flu.” FALSEThe most common side effect from the flu vaccine is a sore arm. The risk of
developing complications from the flu is far greater than a rare allergic reac-
tion from the flu vaccine.
“Only older or sick people need the flu vaccine.” FALSEThe VA recommends that every veteran with a Spinal Cord Injury, regardless
of age, get a flu vaccine each year. Both adults and children who are in good
health need the flu vaccine every year to remain healthy.
“If I haven’t gotten the vaccine and I haven’t gotten the flu by December, I don’t need to get the vaccine.” FALSEThe flu vaccine can be given before or during the flu season. The best time
to get vaccinated is in October or November, but you can get vaccinated
later and still avoid contracting the flu. The SCI clinic offers the flu vaccine
now through March.
Please remember to get your Flu vaccine today!The West Roxbury VA SCI Clinic offers flu vaccines Monday through
Friday, 8a-4p. If you live a great distance from the clinic, please con-
tact your local VA or check your local paper for flu shots available in
your community.
Please let us know if you have received the vaccine in the community so that
we can update your medical record.
VA Boston Healthcare System, SCI Service, 857-203-6455
NEPVA Vice President Debra Freed (left) poses with VA volunteer Lee Cianca at the NEPVA sponsored Christmas party at West Roxbury VAMC on December 14.
Cord Word
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January 2011
9
Job Summary:The Military and Veterans Caseworker
assists the Veterans liaison with
constituent casework and outreach.
This includes, but is not limited to,
helping constituents, veterans, former
military, and their families navigate
and access the benefits and services
offered by the Veterans Administration
and the Federal Government. The
position involves constituent casework,
participation in community projects
and events, working with veterans’
agents throughout the district, and
assisting in the implementation of the
office outreach plan to military and
veteran communities. The Military
and Veterans Caseworker may
communicate with service members,
veterans, and agency and military
liaisons to help constituents navigate
the federal government for assistance.
The caseworker may attend briefings,
constituent meetings, and events
throughout the Congressional District
when appropriate.
Job Duties and Responsibilities:Under the Direction of the District
Director, District Manager, and
Veterans Liaison, the Military and
Veterans Caseworker assists in
representing and communicating
the needs of constituents with
government agencies as necessary and
as a representative of Congresswoman
Tsongas with Military and Veteran
groups. Duties and Responsibilities
include:
• Acts as a representative for the
Congresswoman to veterans’ com-
munities including assisting with
casework, meeting with constituents,
and serving as a liaison to these com-
munities; communicates needs and
goals of these communities to staff.
• Communicates with federal agencies
on behalf of constituents.
• Identifies casework of significant
public interest and assesses casework
for issues that require legislative
action and makes recommendations
to the District Veterans Liaison,
Constituent Services Director, Dis-
trict Manager and Chief of Staff.
• Recommends District outreach
resulting from The Congresswoman’s
legislative agenda and priorities.
• Other duties as assigned by the Con-
gresswoman, Chief of Staff, District
Director and other staff members.
US House of RepresentativesWounded Warrior Fellowship Program – Vacancy AnnouncementJob Title: Military and Veterans Caseworker
Member: Congresswoman Niki Tsongas
Office Location: Lowell, MA, Date Needed: Immediately
Nature of Work:Primarily indoors, seated, with some
travel when appropriate. Performs
general office duties, including faxing,
copying, scanning, placing and
receiving phone calls. Familiarity with
Microsoft Windows and Outlook are a
plus.
Requirements: This program is limited to veterans
who have served on active duty since
September 11, 2001, with less than 20
years of service. High school degree
required, some college courses preferred
but not required. Professional education
through the U.S. military is highly
encouraged. Excellent communication
and organizational skills. Recent
experience with and understanding of
the U.S. Military and Department of
Veterans’ Affairs structure, procedures,
and policies. Service-oriented, positive
attitude, and team player.
Salary: Commensurate with experience.
Contact: Interested veterans may go to www.
cao.house.gov to learn more about
the program and may submit their
resumes, a DD214 and a letter
from the VA indicating that they
have a 30% or greater rating to
gov. Please do not send resumes directly
to the office of Congressman Tsongas.
In REMEMBRanCE
We deeply regret the passing of our Chapter Members:
and extend our heartfelt sympathyto family and friends.
Richard A. Baker Guy D. Conefrey George P. Silva
Cord Word January 2011
www.nepva.org10
Washington Update Produced by PVAGovernment Relations Department
See www.nepva.org for more
Non-service connected veterans are eligible for equipment/
modifications that will allow ingress and egress from a
vehicle only. Note that eligible service connected veterans
who are non-drivers are not eligible for reimbursement for
operational equipment.
How do I apply?
In order to apply, the VA policy requires that automobile
adaptive equipment be issued by a physician’s prescription.
If your doctor agrees that automobile adaptive equipment
is medically necessary, he/she will write a prescription and
forward it to the prosthetics department. There the Major
Medical and Specialist Equipment Committee (MMSEC)
will review it to determine if the prescription is supported by
the medical findings and if the requested items are necessary
for treatment or rehabilitation. If you have any questions,
please contact your local Paralyzed Veterans of America
National Service Officer.
continued from page 5
Service Officers Report
The other issue was internet and cell phone availability. For
many we consider these items as necessary as packing socks
and a toothbrush. However, when traveling out of the U.S.
it is vital to learn well in advance what is available, how it
is available, and especially the expense of that availability.
The last time cell or internet service was so random or so
expensive was a trip to Thailand in 2003. Back then, cell and
internet were not considered necessities.
What does this article teach us? It requires each and every
person who uses any type of mobility device to learn as
much as possible and as soon as possible about being able
to get around. The program Overseas Adventure Tours
and its counterpart Grand Circle tend to discourage people
with disabilities. Because these two groups down-played
accessibility people in similar situations may not ever think
to take a trip of this type or plan on not participating as
often as they might have liked. To me, that would mean
why bother spending that kind of money for something you
can’t do or see. I remain ever so grateful that this trip was as
accessible as it was.
continued from page 3
Accessible Travel
Cord Word
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January 2011
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With dozens of fabulous high-quality brands, Frank Webb’s Bath Centers are the showrooms
of the F.W. Webb Company, the largest plumbing supplier in the Northeast. This means more products,
expertise and value in bath and kitchen plumbing fi xtures and lighting.
Home to dozens of quality brands including...
Accessible living & style are not mutually exclusive. A bathroom must be accessible, secure and supportive in order for us or our loved
ones to live comfortably. Our new Methuen showroom includes 2,000 square feet of accessible living and aging-in-place bath design ideas, proving that accessibility doesn’t mean giving up style! Roll-in showers, walk-in tubs, comfort-height toilets, hand-held showers, grab bars and more. Our array of products and expertise create
a bath that supports privacy, comfort and dignity – all without sacrifi cing style.
Stop by today and declare your independence.
Visit our Accessible Living Idea Center in Methuen!
It’sabout
Methuen, MA 98 Lindbergh Avenue 781-325-7140Exit 47 off Route 93, right onto Mystic Street.
Visit frankwebb.com for all locations & directions.
Frank Webb’s Bath CentersPageStop 4 “Freedom”Showroom: Methuen ShowroomPublication: Paralyzed Veterans of America NewsletterSize: Half Page Horiz (7.5” x 4.125”)Created: 11/7/08 Jim McCoy | 508-478-5322 | [email protected]
freedom.freedom.
Washington Update Produced by PVAGovernment Relations Department
See www.nepva.org for more
WHEELCHAIR RAMPSFor wheelchairs, scooters, power chairs,
or anyone who has trouble climbing stairs.
Low Cost• Rent or Buy• FREE Evaluation• Installed in Days•
888-715-7599www.amramp.com
Proudly serving America’s veterans.VA Contract #V797P-3115M
Disabled Volunteers WantedMyomo® (www.myomo.com) is a new generation medical device
company that has combined innovative robotics technology devel-
oped at MIT with leading rehabilitation expertise to help restore
independence for people suffering from debilitating muscle weak-
ness. Myomo’s
initial product for
the arm is FDA
cleared and has
been available
to rehabilitation
facilities since
2008 and
home use as of
2010. Currently,
Myomo is looking for volunteers to help with new product develop-
ment related activity. People interested in trying the product at our
Kendall Square offices and receiving a free session of therapy using it
are invited to contact us at 617.861.4191 or email [email protected]
and reference Product Trial.
Cord Word January 2011
www.nepva.org12
Va news
FREE TO MEMBER
Rascal ScooterNeeds a battery; 3 yrs oldPick up in Winchester, MA
Call 781-729-0395
Do you have a Saratoga ergome-
ter table collecting dust or being
used as a clothes hanger?
I need one.
Contact me, Christine Griffin
Wanted – Saratoga ergometer
Alliant Heating & Cooling of Salisbury, MAis offering to donate its services
to NEPVA Life Members in the
Merrimack Valley, Southern New
Hampshire, and Northeastern MA/
Shore areas. Donated services include
tune-ups and minor repairs to heating
and air conditioning systems. Alliant
Heating & Cooling is fully licensed
and insured. For further information,
contact Tom Veilleux at 978-465-
5292. Also visit their website at: www.
AlliantHeat.com.
VA Launching New Personalized Veterans Health Benefits Handbook
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is piloting new, personalized
Veterans Health Benefits Handbooks. The handbooks are tailored
to provide enrolled Veterans with the most relevant health benefits
information based on their own specific eligibility. In essence, each handbook will
be written for the individual Veteran.
“These handbooks will give Veterans everything they need to know and leave out
everything that doesn’t apply to them,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric
K. Shinseki. “Our Veterans will now have a comprehensive, easy to understand
roadmap to the medical benefits they earned with their service.”
In addition to highlighting each Veteran’s specific health benefits, the handbook
also provides contact information for the Veteran’s preferred local facility, ways to
schedule personal appointments, guidelines for communicating treatment needs
and an explanation of the Veteran’s responsibilities, such as copayments when
applicable.
“Enhancing access isn’t just about expanding the kinds of services VA provides. It
also includes making sure we do everything we can to ensure Veterans have a clear
understanding of the benefits available to them so they can make full use of the
services they have earned,” Shinseki said.
The new handbooks will initially be available only to certain Veterans in
Cleveland and Washington, D.C., areas. Following the pilot phase, full
implementation is scheduled to begin in the fall of 2011 for across the county.
For additional information, go to www.va.gov/healtheligibility or call VA’s toll-free
number at 1-877-222-VETS (8387).
There remains hope that one day we
will no longer be needed because cures
will be readily available for spinal cord
injuries or diseases. But until that day
arrives, NEPVA will continue to work
at the local, state, and federal level to
bring the best healthcare and services to
our members, veterans, and the disabled
community.
continued from page 1
Welcoming 2011
NEPVA Now Accepts Vehicle Donations
Please Donate that Auto, Boat, or RV that’s No
Longer Needed to New England PVA. NEPVA is
currently accepting vehicle donations from Mas-
sachusetts, Connecticut, and New Hampshire. For further
information, call Toll Free: (866) 2-GIVING or (866) 244-
8464, or visit the NEPVA website: www.nepva.org
Cord Word
www.nepva.org
January 2011
13
National Veterans Golden Age Games Set for Hawaii
More than 700 “golden age” Veterans from the
East Coast to the West and from the Pacific
islands will travel to Hawaii to participate in the
nation’s largest sporting event for senior military Veterans.
The 25th National Veterans Golden
Age Games, a national sports and
recreational competition sponsored
by the Department of Veterans
Affairs (VA), Veterans Canteen
Service and Help Hospitalized
Veterans, will take place May 26-31,
2011, in Honolulu.
“VA is pleased to present the Golden Age Games for
another year,” said VA Assistant Secretary for Public and
Intergovernmental Affairs Tammy Duckworth. “The games
showcase our senior Veterans’ spirit of competition and
commitment to healthy activities.”
Events at the games are open to all U.S. military Veterans
age 55 or older, who are currently receiving care at a
VA medical facility. Hosted by the VA Pacific Islands
Healthcare System, the games will have 14 competitive
events, including swimming, cycling, horseshoes, bowling,
croquet and air rifles.
The games have grown from 115
participants its first year to more
than 700 in 2010. It is the only
national multi-event sports and
recreational seniors’ competition
program designed to improve
the quality of life for all older
Veterans, including those with
a wide range of abilities and disabilities. It is one of the
most progressive and adaptive rehabilitative senior sports
programs in the world.
For more information about the National Veterans Golden
Age Games and other VA national rehabilitation programs,
visit VA’s web site at www.veteransgoldenagegames.va.gov.
The games showcase our
senior Veterans’ spirit of
competition and commitment
to healthy activities. ”
“
Cord Word January 2011
www.nepva.org14
Cord Word
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January 2011
15
Non-Profit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Leominster, MA
Permit No. 17
New England PVA1600 Providence Highway, Suite 143Walpole, MA 02081
tel: 508 660-1181 800 660-1181fax: 508 668-9412
Email: [email protected]
Office Hours: Monday-Friday 9:00am-4:30pm
2011 new England PVa Bass Trail Dates
April 23 Congamond Lake, Southwick, Ma.
May 21 Point Sebago Resort, Sebago Lake, Maine
June 11 Charles River Boston, MA.
July 23 Slatersville Res @ the Island Club, Smithfield, RI.
Sept. 10 & 11 Lake Winnipesaukee, Camp Robindel Moultonborough, NH & TOC Sept. 16–18 National PVA Bass Tournament Lake Winnipesaukee, Camp Robindel Moultonborough, NH
Any questions may be directed to:
Tiny LaFontaine(H) 781-935-2480 (C) 978-479-8147
Jim Marino (H) 978-365-3112 (C) 508-523-5668
Call Jim for Reservations if staying @ Point Sebago Resort…
Bob Soupy Campbell (H) 781-935-2266
See www.nepva.org for other bass trail info or to sign up.