quote:

Originally posted by RONCO:

quote:

Well, 1 year from now,2011, the VA budget will be funded at 125 Billion, Bushs last VA budget was 82 Billion, that seems to me to be quite an increase, Bush wanted vets to pay a 250 dollar co pay as well, and he even wanted an increase in the co pay for meds, which went over like a lead balloon with this congress, the funding increase from this administration cant be overlooked because the numbers dont lie.....
http://www4.va.gov/budget/products.asp

YOU ARE PEGGING MY BULLSCHITT METER

AS DAVE REQUESTED...TAKE IT SOME WHERE ELSE

Explain where anything I said was bullchit, it's in the budget.....

First notice I was trying to be understanding. This is my second notice read and heed!

This is a news topic (VA News and associated items of interest) and hopefully stays that way. I do not want us to get off topic and turn this into a debate forum.

It will not be a debate forum.

From today's Navy Times

Ships can return to Pearl Harbor

Staff report
Posted : Sunday Feb 28, 2010 8:29:17 EST

Commander, Navy Region Hawaii and Naval Surface Group Middle Pacific sent orders late Saturday for ships sent from Pearl Harbor after a tsunami warning to return to their homeport.

The destroyers Chafee, Chung Hoon and O’Kane, the frigate Crommelin, the oiler Yukon and a SEAL support vessel were sortied from Pearl Harbor, the Navy said. Officials were concerned about damage to the ships and piers in the event a large-scale tsunami, triggered by Saturday’s 8.8-magnitude earthquake in Chile, hit the islands.

Smaller-than-expected waves hit Hawaii, and the Navy said no injuries or damage was reported to its facilities there.

In addition:

• Access will be restored to previously evacuated areas.

• The Ford Island bridge has reopened.

• The Fleet and Family Support Center has stood down its family assistance center.

• Pacific Missile Range Facility, Kauai, is returning to normal operations.

sorry, dave, i thought what i posted from what i read about the va compensating veterans for gulf war syndrom and treating all veterans better in the future by the va and government was va news and items of interest.

quote:

Originally posted by big_red_1:
sorry, dave, i thought what i posted from what i read about the va compensating veterans for gulf war syndrom and treating all veterans better in the future by the va and government was va news and items of interest.

It is. Feel free to post news. This topic is ours, not mine.

It is not for debate, as stated previous. Not a debate forum it is only information. When you have a news release, please post it. If the issue is a good debatable topic, click on this link: http://forums.military.com/eve.../frm/f/8280047191001 and start a new topic. We will debate it!

This happens every few months, we are

dave, this is the VA news item which i posted my comment on and now i understand that this thread is for posting the actual VA news item and not my comments of the va news.

VA to reconsider benefits for ill Gulf War vets
Buzz up!214 votes Send
Email IM .Share
Facebook Twitter Delicious Digg Fark Newsvine Reddit StumbleUpon Technorati Yahoo! Bookmarks .Print .. AP – Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric Shinseki, testifies on Capitol Hill in Washington, Friday, Feb. 26, 2010, … .By KIMBERLY HEFLING, Associated Press Writer Kimberly Hefling, Associated Press Writer – Fri Feb 26, 12:41 pm ET

WASHINGTON – The Veterans Affairs Department says it will look again at the rejected claims of veterans who say their Gulf War service caused a mysterious illness, the first step toward potentially compensating them nearly two decades after the war ended.

VA Secretary Eric Shinseki said the decision is part of a "fresh, bold look" his department is taking to help veterans who have what's commonly called "Gulf War illness" and have long felt the government did little to help them. The VA says it also plans to improve training for medical staff who work with Gulf War vets, to make sure they do not simply tell vets that their symptoms are imaginary — as has happened to many over the years.

"I'm hoping they'll be enthused by the fact that this ... challenges all the assumptions that have been there for 20 years," Shinseki told The Associated Press in an interview.

The changes reflect a significant shift in how the VA may ultimately care for some 700,000 veterans who served in the Gulf War. They also could improve the way the department handles war-related illnesses suffered by future veterans, because Shinseki said he wants standards put in place that don't leave veterans waiting decades for answers to what ails them.

The decision comes four months after Shinseki opened the door for about 200,000 Vietnam veterans to receive service-related compensation for three illnesses stemming from exposure to the Agent Orange herbicide.

About 175,000 to 210,000 Gulf War veterans have come down with a pattern of symptoms ranging from mild to severe that include rashes, headaches, memory problems, joint and muscle pain, sleep issues and gastrointestinal problems, according to a 2008 congressionally mandated committee that based the estimate on earlier studies.

But what exactly caused the symptoms has long been unanswered. Independent scientists have pointed to pesticide and pyridostigmine bromide pills, given to protect troops from nerve agents, as probable culprits. The 2008 report noted that since 1994, $340 million has been spent on government research into the illness, but little has focused on treatments.

Steve Robertson, legislative director of the American Legion and a Gulf War veteran who has struggled with his own health issues such as joint problems and chronic fatigue, said Friday the decision is welcome news.

"I can assure that there are Gulf War veterans who have been fighting this issue since 1991-92," Robertson said. "The ones I've talked to are very, very upset that they've had to fight this battle."

James Bunker, president of the nonprofit National Gulf War Resource Center, also praised the decision but said he hopes the claims processors will be better trained so they don't reject the same claims again, turning the process into "something that had lifted the hopes of many veterans just to let them down again."

Last week, Shinseki and Sen. Jay Rockefeller, D-W.Va., a member of the Senate Veterans' Affairs committee, met privately in Charleston, W.Va., with several Gulf War veterans. In an interview after the meeting, Rockefeller told the AP that Shinseki's background as a former Army chief of staff made the changes possible. He said either the military has been reluctant over the years to release paperwork related to the war or kept poor records about exposures in the war zone, which made it harder for the veterans to prove they needed help.

"The paperwork isn't very accurate, but the pain is very real," Rockefeller said.

Shinseki has publicly wondered why there are still so many unanswered questions about Gulf War illness, as stricken veterans' conditions have only worsened with age.

Last fall, he appointed a task force led by his chief of staff, John Gingrich, a retired Army colonel who commanded a field artillery battalion in the 1991 war, to review benefits and care for Gulf War veterans. The changes stem from the task force's work.

Gingrich said he feels a personal stake because some of his own men who were healthy during the war are dealing with these health problems. Gingrich said the VA isn't giving a new benefit to Gulf War veterans, just making sure the claims they submitted were done correctly.

A law enacted in 1994 allows the VA to pay compensation to Gulf War veterans with certain chronic disabilities from illnesses the VA could not diagnosis. More than 3,400 Gulf War have qualified for benefits under this category, according to the VA.

The VA doesn't have an estimate of the number of veterans who may be affected, but it could be in the thousands.

Of those who deployed in the Gulf War, 300,000 submitted claims, according to the VA. About 14 percent were rejected, while the rest received compensation for at least one condition.

___

On the Net:

Veterans Administration: http://www.va.gov

WASHINGTON (Feb. 25, 2010) - The federal departments of Veterans Affairs, Labor and Defense unveiled today an improved Web site for wounded warriors.

"VA is committed to tapping into the full powers of the Internet to provide accurate, timely, easy to find and easy to understand information that improves the lives of Veterans, service members, their families and all who care for them," said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki.

The National Resource Directory is a comprehensive, free, online tool for wounded, ill and injured service members, Veterans and their families. Visitors to the site can find an extensive range of information about Veterans' benefits, including disability and pension benefits, VA health care and educational opportunities. The site also provides information for those who care for Veterans, such as access to emotional, financial and community assistance.

The Web site has been enhanced to provide a single point of access to a wealth of information from more than 10,000 sites by federal, state and local governments and organizations offering services for wounded warriors.

"This online directory is an invaluable resource for those involved in helping service members and Veterans," Shinseki said. "Reliable information about government and private-sector programs can be a priceless tool."

A recent addition to the Web site is a specialized section where users can find help for homeless Veterans. These resources will help end Veteran homelessness over the next five years.

The new design will help visitors find needed resources easily. Other enhancements include a fast, accurate search engine; a "bookmark and share" capability that allows users to share valuable resources on Facebook, Twitter and other social media sites; and a news feature with updates on relevant information and events. Resources are added daily.

Visit the site at www.nationalresourcedirectory.gov.

VA Announces $41 Million in Construction Contracts for San Antonio State-of-Art "Polytrauma Center" Funded

WASHINGTON (Feb. 26, 2010) - The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced the award of two contracts totaling $41.5 million to create a "polytrauma center" that cares for the most severely injured Veterans and to improve the existing wards at the Audie L. Murphy VA Medical Center.

"A top priority for VA is providing greater access to VA's health care system and higher quality of care for the nation's Veterans," Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki said. "America's Veterans have earned the very best that this nation as to offer."

One contract announced by Secretary Shinseki provides $37.2 million to Robins and Morton of Birmingham, Ala. The contract calls for construction of a three-story, 84,000-square foot "polytrauma center."
It would include physical medicine, rehabilitation services, prosthetics service and research.

"Polytrauma" refers to health care for Veterans who have more than one severe, life-threatening medical problem. Many of VA's polytrauma patients are recent combat Veterans injured by roadside bombs and other explosives in Iraq and Afghanistan.

A second contract, valued at $4.3 million, went to Strategic Perspectives Development of San Antonio. It provides for upgrades and expansion to ward 4-A, including electrical work, utilities, fire alarm and fire protection systems, telephone and data systems, and asbestos abatement.

Last year, VA spent more than $7.8 billion in Texas on behalf of the state's 1.7 million Veterans. VA operates 11 major medical centers in the state, more than 40 outpatient clinics, 14 Vet Centers and six national cemeteries.

VA Expands Evaluation of Technology Projects Management and Accountability System Found Effective

WASHINGTON (Feb. 23, 2010) - The Department of Veterans Affairs today announced that all information technology (IT) projects at the Department will now be managed under its program management and accountability system (PMAS).

"We will end projects that don't work, streamline those that do, and focus on the responsibility we have for achieving maximum value for our Veterans," said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki.

First announced by Secretary Shinseki in June 2009, the system requires IT projects to deliver new functionality within six months and keeps projects tied to established milestones. VA is using PMAS and other rigorous management techniques to reform its IT management practices and provide better value, efficiency, and effectiveness for taxpayers'
dollars.

VA announced the temporary halt of 45 of its most problematic computer projects last summer so they could be fixed. During the next six months, VA restarted 32 of these projects, stopped 12, and continued the review of one. These actions resulted in cost avoidance of $54 million for VA during fiscal year 2010.

"While we have stopped the 12 projects, the real saving is in the increased probability of success for the projects we changed and restarted," said Roger W. Baker, VA's Assistant Secretary for Information and Technology. "Holding each project accountable for regularly delivering value is key to getting the most out of our IT budget. While much work remains to be done, PMAS has shown what can be achieved by forcing measured demonstrations of performance."

PMAS, in conjunction with the analytical tools available through the IT Dashboard, will ensure early identification and correction of problematic IT projects. The Internet-based IT Dashboard <http://www.usaspending.gov/> , launched in June 2009, is a one-stop clearinghouse of information, allowing the American people to track federal information technology initiatives and hold the government accountable for progress and results.

"Better accountability and focus on results lead to better services for our Veterans and better value for the American taxpayer," said Federal Chief Information Officer Vivek Kundra. "Investing in what works is about continuing projects that are effective and making tough choices when projects, however well intentioned, are broken and failing. We owe it to the American people to make sure their dollars are being spent wisely."

VA Begins Nationwide GI Bill Advertising Campaign to Reach Student Veterans and Schools Ads to Be Placed in College Newspapers, Radio Stations, Campus Venues and On-Line Sites to Ensure Student Veterans and Servicemembers Receive Their Education Benefits

WASHINGTON (Feb. 23, 2010) - The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) today announced a two-month, nationwide advertising campaign to assist student Veterans and servicemembers applying for the Post-9/11 GI Bill.


"VA, student Veterans and our schools have made significant progress in implementing the GI Bill this spring, but we still have more to do,"
said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. "We won't rest until all student Veterans have received the education benefit they earned in defense of our Nation."

Since inception of this historic new program, VA has issued nearly $1.9 billion in Post-9/11 GI Bill benefit payments and opened the door to higher education to 209,490 people.

As of Feb. 12, VA has received spring semester Post-9/11 GI Bill enrollments from approximately 180,000 student Veterans and already paid nearly 90 percent of students. All Post-9/11 GI Bill participants whose spring enrollments were received by Jan. 18 have been paid.

The GI Bill Advertising campaign includes half-page ads in top college publications, online and social media, print, radio, and outdoor advertising such as posters and flyers. Public service announcements are being delivered to approximately 150 college radio stations and 750 local stations in areas where there is a high density of students, as well as military installations.

Student Veterans on college campuses will also see a variety of posters in registrars' offices, dormitories, cafeterias, student union buildings and other high traffic areas.

"This comprehensive, nationwide advertising campaign will help us reach those student Veterans, servicemembers and educational administrators who need help in understanding the GI Bill and their role in the benefits process," said Keith Wilson, director of VA's educational service.

Social media and online advertising will be extensively used to reach the younger generation of student Veterans. VA will place banner ads on social media sites such as Facebook, Google, MySpace, Yahoo, and other outlets.

Text messaging ads will also link student Veterans to VA. By texting "GIBILL," Veterans will receive the basic message: "You Served. Get Benefits." Veterans will then be directed to follow three steps:
"Review your benefit options online. Submit your application. And check with your school certifying official to confirm that your VA enrollment certification has been sent to VA."

VA also developed a hip pocket guide and checklist with helpful tips to assist Veterans and servicemembers in the application process.

The Post-9/11 GI Bill, passed by Congress last year, is the most extensive educational assistance program authorized since the original GI Bill was signed into law in 1944.

Information about the Post-9/11 GI Bill, as well as VA's other educational benefit programs, is available at VA's Web site, www.gibill.va.gov <http://www.gibill.va.gov/> , or by calling
1-888-GIBILL-1 (or 1-888-442-4551).

quote:

Originally posted by DaveBarker:
First notice I was trying to be understanding. This is my second notice read and heed!

This is a news topic (VA News and associated items of interest) and hopefully stays that way. I do not want us to get off topic and turn this into a debate forum.

It will not be a debate forum.

I guess not one read this post by Dave Barker.

Attention friends please read the following carefully.

This topic is not for debate, as stated twice previously. It is not a debate forum it is only information. When you have a news release, please post it. If the issue is a good debatable topic, click on this link: http://forums.military.com/eve.../frm/f/8280047191001 and start a new topic. We will debate it!

Just do not debate issues here.

Click on this link start a new topic and we will debate it.
http://forums.military.com/eve.../frm/f/8280047191001

RAO Bulletin page 1

MEDICARE REIMBURSEMENT RATES 2010 UPDATE 04: The Senate adjourned for the weekend on 26 FEB without clearing legislation to extend a range of federal programs set to expire 28 FEB. Thus, Congress failed to pass legislation by the mandated 28 FEB cut-off date to prevent a 21% decrease in Medicare physician reimbursement rates. It is anticipated that with implementation of the payment cuts there will be a drastic reduction in the number of physicians willing to treat Medicare and Tricare patients. Earlier, this month Congress passed a law allowing a 5 year fix without complying with the PAYGO rules. But they have not passed the bill itself. This bill was clearly intended to allow them to work on this and several other matters. However, it is not clear what will happen now. That bill would stop the scheduled 21% Medicare payment cut for doctors until 31 MAR. In the interim an extender bill H.R.4691 containing short extensions through 5 APR of federal laws that are to expire at the end of the FEB including health insurance subsidies for the jobless, COBRA for the unemployed, the Medicare Doc Fix, highway construction, the federal flood insurance program, and the compulsory copyright license used by satellite TV providers. On 25 FEB the bill passed the House by voice vote and they sent it on to the Senate. And there it stopped.

Senator Jim Bunning (R-KY) stayed late into the night refusing to allow the vote. He is insisting that the bill contain provisions that would pay for the extensions with economic stimulus funds (P.L.111-5). The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates that H.R.4691 would increase the federal deficit by $10.3 billion from fiscal 2010-2020. The bulk of the cost ($6.9 billion) coming from the unemployment provisions. At this time there is no payment provided for the bill’s provisions. With Bunning refusing to back down, Democrats likely will need to use the cloture process to overcome his objections. Completing those procedural steps would likely push final action on the measure into next week. Majority leader Harry Reid (D-NV) said he would continue his attempts to work out an agreement with Bunning to advance the “extenders” bill. On 26 FEB, Majority Whip Richard J. Durbin (D-IL) once again appealed to Bunning, asking for consent to clear the bill. But, as he did repeatedly Thursday until almost midnight, Bunning held firm and rejected the proposal. “If we can’t find $10 billion somewhere for a bill that everybody in this body supports, we will never pay for anything. So I continue my objection,” Bunning said.

Bunning, who is retiring from the Senate when his term ends this year, insisted that the bill contain provisions that would pay for the extensions with economic stimulus funds. Reid had agreed to a vote on Bunning’s amendment, but Bunning did not expect his colleagues to adopt it. Durbin ripped Bunning for using the bill as a forum to debate the national debt and defended treating the cost of the measure as emergency spending. “The simple fact of the matter is that this is an emergency situation and should be treated as such,” Durbin said. This is a huge concern for all TRICARE beneficiaries. Especially TRICARE for Life (TFL) beneficiaries since Medicare is their first payer. Additionally, since TRICARE payment rates are based on Medicare rates this would affect all other TRICARE beneficiaries who receive any care outside of the MTFs. Without a permanent fix to the Medicare payment problem TRICARE beneficiaries will face real problems to finding new doctors. [Source: TREA Washington Update & GQ Politics news 26 Feb 2010 ++]

===============================

MILITARY DISCOUNTS UPDATE 01: Lowe's Companies, Inc. recently announced that it is expanding its support of the military by offering a 10% discount 24/7 to all military personnel who are active, reserve, retired or disabled veterans and their family members, with a valid, government-issued military ID card. All other military veterans (non-disabled) will receive the 10% discount only on Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Veterans Day weekends. The discount is available on in-stock and Special Order purchases up to $5,000. Excluded from the discount are sales via Lowes.com, previous sales, and purchases of services or gift cards. In addition, Lowe's has also extended benefits for its employees serving in the military and offers employment opportunities to military personnel after their military service has ended. Currently, more than 12,000 Lowe's employees are military veterans or reservists. [Source: EANGUS Minuteman 26 Feb 2010 ++]

===============================

DBIDS: Retirees, survivors and their family members have begun registering their identification cards at Air Force installations worldwide as the service implements a new base-entry system that uses scanning devices to manage access. The Defense Biometric Identification System, or DBIDS, is already operational at some bases overseas and in the continental United States. Open registrations for DBIDS are under way at installations gearing up for this Air Force-wide initiative. Particular dates, times and locations vary by base so people should stay tuned to local media outlets, or contact their local Retiree Activities Office, for specific details. Actual registration takes only a few minutes, according to Air Force Security Forces officials. DBIDS uses automated processes to ensure only those with authorized access are allowed to enter the installation. Other benefits include giving guards visual and audible crosschecks to verify identities of those requesting access.

Guards scanning ID cards will see a red or green display at the bottom of their scanner screens. A red display will say “stop” and indicate why base entry is not authorized, giving up to 26 different messages. Besides showing if access is authorized or denied, the scanner allows a gate guard to see a detailed view that provides more information about the card holder. The photo of the card holder will be the image taken when the card was registered in the system. Although the actual scanning of the cards by guards only takes a few seconds, there may be some delays at gates as everyone gets used to the process. Retirees, survivors and their family members should stay tuned to local information outlets for details on the registration process taking place at their nearest Air Force installation. [Source: Afterburner Robert Goetz article Feb 2010 ++]

===============================

RETIREE JOINT BASING IMPACT: Although the signs at some gates are changing, joint basing has had very little impact on services and support for retirees. In fact, things should only get better. Efficiencies and effectiveness are the driving forces behind joint basing. By pulling together the best of what each service has to offer, the best practices are being gleaned to become a joint base’s standard. This means the best possible service to customers. Unlike normal Base Realignment and Closure actions, joint basing closes no installations meaning retirees living nearby will still have access to the same support they are used to receiving. Joint basing is being done in two phases. Phase 1 bases have already stood up and are fully operational. These joint bases include: McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, Myer-Henderson Hall, Andrews-Naval Air Facility Washington, Little Creek-Fort Story, and Joint Region Marianas, which includes Andersen Air Force Base). Phase 2 bases will be transitioning people, real property and services to the joint base command over the next eight months. They should be fully operational by 1 OCT. The joint bases in Phase 2 include: Lewis-McChord, Anacostia-Bolling, Elmendorf-Richardson, Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Charleston, Langley-Eustis, and San Antonio involving Randolph, Lackland and Fort Sam Houston.

The Air Force is involved in 10 joint-base actions, and is actually the “lead service” for six of them. For example, in San Antonio the Air Force is responsible for all of the support associated with the combined installations -- even the Army civilian employees at Fort Sam Houston will become Air Force civilian employees. One area that is impacting retirees is base decals for vehicles. Although a majority of Air Force bases stopped requiring and issuing decals years ago, other services still require them for access to their respective installations. Air Force retirees must comply with the entry requirements of each particular installation so they may need to get a visitor’s pass if the Air Force is not the lead service at a joint base. For example, at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling where the Navy is the lead service, people must have vehicle access decals beginning Oct. 1. Drivers who frequent such installations may want to consider registering their vehicle at that installation, if they are allowed to do so. [Source: Afterburner article Feb 2010 ++]

===============================

ID CARD NUMBERS UPDATE 04: Phase Two of the process to remove printed Social Security numbers from retiree identification cards set to begin early this year has been delayed until further notice. When a new plan is made available to the Services, information will be advertised through Air Force retiree news outlets and other public affairs media. There are more than 1,500 ID card centers worldwide. To find the nearest center, refer to the RAPIDS site locator at www.dmdc.osd.mil/rsl/owa/home . Officials urge cardholders to call first to ensure duty hours and determine what documents are required. People must present two forms of identification and one must be an unexpired federal- or state-issued photo ID. [Source: Afterburner article Feb 2010 ++]

===============================

PDMRA COMPENSATION PROGRAM: National Guard soldiers from every state and territory and the District of Columbia are among those eligible for additional money from the Post Deployment Mobilization Respite Absence (PDMRA) compensation program, the National Guard Bureau has determined. The states and territories now are identifying their soldiers who are entitled to extra cash for serving long deployments overseas, according to information from the bureau. "The Army National Guard is providing the states with individual soldier information, such as names, ranks and days earned, and asking that the states validate their soldiers' eligibility for (PDMRA) compensation," said Lt. Col. Robert Ditchey, a bureau spokesman. Guard soldiers who mobilized between Jan. 19, 2007, and Aug. 18, 2007, and served longer than one year may be eligible to receive the PDMRA compensation. Payments are expected to go out starting in March and be completed in October. About 6,800 soldiers may be affected. Numbers range from single digits in some states to hundreds in others. Soldiers who have left the service honorably or retired are included under this authority. The Minnesota National Guard has created a PDMRA Web page www.MinnesotaNationalGuard.org .and assembled a team to certify the list of Minnesota soldiers who may be eligible for the payments. The state's 34th Infantry Division served for 16 months in Iraq.. [Source: NGAUS eNotes 26 Feb 2010 ++]

===============================

VET JOBS UPDATE 14: The nation’s largest organization of combat veterans is demanding changes in the $15 billion jobs bill that passed the Senate on 24 FEB because veterans were left out of a package of tax credits and highway projects aimed at increasing employment. “Despite having more than 1.1 million unemployed veterans, the 60-page package failed to mention ‘veteran’ or ‘veterans’ even once,” said Justin Brown, a legislative associate with the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Brown was referring to HR 2847, the Hiring Incentive to Restore Employment Act, or HIRE Act, that passed the Senate by a 70-28 vote and is pending before the House. Speaking before the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee’s economic opportunity panel, which is considering legislation that would expand vocational training for veterans, Brown said the VFW “finds it unconscionable that American’s veterans, who have left their families, risked their lives and limbs and left civilian career pursuits behind to answer the nation’s call, do not have the attention of Congress for this important matter.” The unemployment rate for Iraq and Afghanistan combat veterans is almost 15.8%, higher than the average 10.6% overall unemployment rate, as well as the 11.8*rate for foreign-born U.S. citizens — a sore point among veterans groups such as the VFW.

There are things Congress could do as part of the jobs bill, Brown said. For example, an existing tax credit for employers is worth $2,400 for hiring a veteran and $4,800 for hiring a disabled veteran. That credit could be doubled and expanded to include more veterans, Brown said. The tax credit now applies only to veterans unemployed for four weeks or longer who were separated from the military after 25 FEB 08. At a minimum, eligibility should be extended to anyone separated from the military since 11 SEP 01, Brown said, and the number of weeks spent unemployed should not be considered. Brown also suggested an overhaul of the veterans rehabilitation and employment program to widen eligibility and to make it more accommodating by providing things such as child care services for veterans who are receiving training. Expanding grants and loans to veterans who own a small business or want to start one also could be included in the bill, he said. There is an opportunity to make changes in the HIRE Act when the House takes up the measure, but House passage is not a sure thing. There are objections to many of the provisions, such as which states would get the job-creating highway projects and proposed payroll tax relief for businesses that hire new workers over the next 10 years. House leaders hope for a quick agreement on a compromise, with a vote on the bill coming as early as next week — which might not be enough time for consideration of veterans-specific provisions.

Brown’s comments came during a hearing to consider a variety of changes in veterans programs, including several aimed at expanding veterans education benefits. One includes a grant program in which an employer could receive up to $20,000 to offset the salary of a veteran in an apprenticeship program that would lead to a job in an energy-related field. The chief sponsor of that bill, Rep. Harry Teague (D-NM) said he was trying to find a way to get veterans well-paying and lasting jobs in fields such as construction of energy-efficient buildings, renewable electric power, bio-fuels, oil and gas production and nuclear power. The concept has bipartisan support. Rep. John Boozman of Arkansas, the subcommittee’s top Republican, said he wanted to work with Teague to provide grants to employers. “Let’s put veterans to work,” Boozman said. [Source: NavyTimes Rick Maze article 25 Feb 2010 ++]

===============================

VET JOBS UPDATE 15: The House just passed an amendment introduced to H.R.2701 by Rep. Tim Walz (D-MN-01) to ensure that veterans, who are experts in keeping our country safe, are treated fairly in the security clearance process. "When determining if a veteran is granted a security clearance, I want to make sure the intelligence community makes those decisions based not only on suitability but also on the unique experiences these heroes had as a result of their service." Mr. Walz's amendment requires the intelligence community to train their security clearance adjudicators on all combat injuries, including PTSD, affecting combat veterans. H.R.2701, the Intelligence Authorization Act, supports our intelligence officers by improving oversight of covert actions, directing essential funding for efforts abroad, and boosting foreign language capabilities to ensure that officers have the critical tools they need to carry out operations around the world. [Source: EANGUS Minuteman 26 Feb 2010 ++]

===============================

FORECLOSURE UPDATE 04: Surviving spouses of service members killed in Iraq or Afghanistan would be guaranteed one year of protection against the foreclosure or forced sale of their homes under legislation introduced Tuesday by Rep. Frank Kratovil Jr., D-Md. Kratovil’s bill, H.R.4664, was referred to the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, which oversees the legal and financial protections provided by the Servicemembers’ Civil Relief Act. The committee is working on a package of changes to that law that could be passed later this year. In 2008, as foreclosures in the U.S. were on the rise, Congress included in a broader economic recovery bill a new protection for mobilized National Guard and reserve members that prohibited foreclosure for up to nine months after their release from active duty. That provision, set to expire at the end of 2010, was approved as part of a compromise. Banks and lending institutions had expressed concern to lawmakers about Guard or reserve members being given a way to potentially use military duties to avoid financial responsibilities. Separate legislation pending in the House would extend the foreclosure moratorium for another five years. Kratovil’s bill, the Mortgage Foreclosure Moratorium for Surviving Spouses Act of 2010, would extend the same foreclosure protection to surviving spouses of service members killed in Iraq or Afghanistan. The moratorium would remain in place for one year following the death, and would apply only to deaths directly related to service in Operations Iraqi Freedom or Enduring Freedom. In a statement, Kratovil’s staff said the legislation is one of several ideas that came from recent meetings he had with veterans. [Source: AirForceTimes Rick Maze article 25 Feb 2010 ++]

===============================

GULF WAR SYNDROME UPDATE 11: The Veterans Affairs Department says it will take a second look at the disability claims of what could be thousands of Gulf War veterans suffering from illnesses they blame on their war service, the first step toward potentially compensating them nearly two decades after the war ended. VA Secretary Eric Shinseki said the decision is part of a "fresh, bold look" his department is taking to help veterans who have what's commonly called "Gulf War illness" and have long felt the government did little to help them. The VA says it also plans to improve training for medical staff who work with Gulf War vets, to make sure they do not simply tell vets that their symptoms are imaginary — as has happened to many over the years. "I'm hoping they'll be enthused by the fact that this ... challenges all the assumptions that have been there for 20 years," Shinseki told The Associated Press in an interview.

The changes reflect a significant shift in how the VA may ultimately care for some 700,000 veterans who served in the Gulf War. They also could improve the way the department handles war-related illnesses suffered by future veterans, because Shinseki said he wants standards put in place that don't leave veterans waiting decades for answers to what ails them. Steve Robertson, legislative director of the American Legion and a Gulf War veteran who has struggled with his own health issues such as joint problems and chronic fatigue, said the decision is welcome news. "I can assure that there are Gulf War veterans who have been fighting this issue since 1991-92," Robertson said. "The ones I've talked to are very, very upset that they've had to fight this battle." Robertson said many veterans couldn't work because of health problems, but couldn't get medical help from the government because they couldn't prove their illnesses stemmed from their war service. "If you had an invisible wound it was kind of like come back when you have hard evidence that you got it in the theater of operation," Robertson said.

The decision comes four months after Shinseki opened the door for as many as 200,000 Vietnam veterans to receive service-related compensation for three illnesses stemming from exposure to the Agent Orange herbicide. About 175,000 to 210,000 Gulf War veterans have come down with a pattern of symptoms that include rashes, joint and muscle pain, sleep issues and gastrointestinal problems, according to a 2008 congressionally mandated committee that based the estimate on earlier studies. But what exactly caused the symptoms has long been unanswered. Independent scientists have pointed to pesticide and pyridostigmine bromide pills, given to protect troops from nerve agents, as probable culprits. The 2008 report noted that since 1994, $340 million has been spent on government research into the illness, but little has focused on treatments. Last week, Shinseki and Sen. Jay Rockefeller (D-WV)., a member of the Senate Veterans' Affairs committee, met privately in Charleston WV with several Gulf War veterans. In an interview after the meeting, Rockefeller told the AP that Shinseki's background as a former Army chief of staff made the changes possible. He said either the military has been reluctant over the years to release paperwork related to the war or kept poor records about exposures in the war zone, which made it harder for the veterans to prove they needed help. "The paperwork isn't very accurate, but the pain is very real," Rockefeller said.

Shinseki has publicly wondered why today there are still so many unanswered questions about Gulf War illness, as stricken veterans' conditions have only worsened with age. Last fall, he appointed a task force led by his chief of staff, John Gingrich, a retired Army colonel who commanded a field artillery battalion in the 1991 war, to review benefits and care for Gulf War veterans. The changes stem from the task force's work. Gingrich said he feels a personal stake because some of his own men who were healthy during the war are dealing with these health problems. Gingrich said the VA isn't giving a new benefit to Gulf War veterans, just making sure the claims they submitted were done correctly. "We're talking about a culture change, that we don't have a single clinician or benefits person saying 'you really don't have Gulf War illness, this is only imaginary' or 'you're really not sick,'" Gingrich said. A law enacted in 1994 allows the VA to pay compensation to Gulf War veterans with certain chronic disabilities from illnesses the VA could not diagnosis. More than 3,400 Gulf War have qualified for benefits under this category, according to the VA. The VA says it plans to review how regulations were written to ensure the veterans received the compensation they were entitled to under the law. The VA would then give veterans the opportunity to have a rejected claim reconsidered. The VA doesn't have an estimate of the number of veterans who may be affected, but it could be in the thousands. Of those who deployed in the Gulf War, 300,000 submitted claims, according to the VA. About 14% were rejected, while the rest received compensation for at least one condition. [Source: AP Kimberly Hefling article 26 Feb 2010 ++]

===============================

RAO page 2

GI BILL UPDATE 72: Student Veterans of America is recommending that people who must give back their $3,000 GI Bill advances quickly assess their finances to determine the best way to repay the money. The Veterans Affairs Department has announced it will start reducing living stipends, beginning 1 APR, by $750 per month to recoup the fall advance payments. Brian Hawthorne, legislative director for the student group, said people who cannot afford to have that much reduced from their monthly checks need to make other arrangements. “We are advising our members to look at their personal finances and ensure that they can afford that amount,” Hawthorne said. “We are suggesting that if this amount will negatively impact their bottom line or their family situation, they should call right away. “It has been made very clear to us by VA that if it is too aggressive, they are willing to work with the student veterans that need to adjust the pace,” Hawthorne said.

His comments come as Rep. Glenn Nye (D-VA), a member of the House armed services and veterans’ affairs committees, is pressing VA to revise its recoupment plans. Nye says he worries that $750 per month could prove too much for some veterans. Hawthorne said he doesn’t want veterans to be alarmed. “It is important for vets to realize that this is not a one-size-fits-all plan, and that they are in control of it, if they choose to be by calling VA debt management.” The automatic repayment applies only to those who received the $3,000 advance payments last fall and are receiving spring payments under the Post-9/11 GI Bill. Anyone who received the pay advances who is not now drawing a monthly living stipend must make separate arrangements with VA to pay back the money. Flexible repayment terms have been promised by VA officials as long as the $3,000 is recouped within 12 months. VA officials said the more than 122,000 people who received the $3,000 advance payments have received at least one notice about repayment, and they are about to receive a second that will include details on how to contact VA to arrange a payment schedule. [Source: MarineCorpsTimes Rick Maze article 24 Feb 2010 ++]

===============================

U.S. WAR DOGS MONUMENT: A new war memorial will pay tribute to dogs that have served with U.S. military units in wars. The Pentagon’s approval of the location and design capped years of work by a Vietnam veteran John Burnam who worked with a war dog. A Vietnam War dog handler and president of the, met with military officials15 JAN to finalize a design for the nation's first national war dog monument at Fort Belvoir, Va. Burnam said, "This monument represents all wars, all services and all dog handlers of all wars. It represents a piece of the military that hasn't really been memorialized." He started pushing for the monument in 2001 and has traveled the country to rally support for the project. The military has used dogs since World War II as scouts, trackers and guards. Dobermans landed with U.S. forces at Iwo Jima, while German shepherds helped liberate Sicily. During the Korean War, dogs served as sentries. Several thousand dogs served in Vietnam as trackers and scouts. Dogs have played an integral part in the War on Terror. In Iraq and Afghanistan, U.S. forces use dogs to detect roadside bombs or hidden weapon caches, often saving the lives of U.S. and NATO troops. Ron Aiello, Vietnam dog handler and president of the United States War Dog Association, said war dogs have saved thousands of lives while sometimes giving their own.

As a military monument, the project required approval from the departments of Interior and Defense and numerous congressional subcommittees. It also needed a congressional sponsor, which Burnam found in Rep. Walter Jones (R-NC). Jones introduced a bill calling for a national war dog monument in 2006. It was approved in 2008 as a part of the DOD budget. Jones said the monument has wide, bipartisan support in Congress. The memorial will be about 100 square feet. At its center will stand a bronze statue of a dog handler surrounded by statues of the four most common war dog breeds: Doberman pinscher, German shepherd, Labrador retriever and Belgian malinois. A granite wall etched with war dog images and history will be placed behind the statues. The monument foundation, a non-profit, will pay for the $850,000 monument using donations. Burham said he hopes to break ground by Veterans' Day 2011, but donations for the monument have slowed because of the poor economy. For more information on the foundation and the monument refer to www.jbmf.us . [Source: Kansas city InfoZine Erich Hiner article 24 Feb 2010 ++]

===============================

HONOR FLIGHT NETWORK UPDATE 01: Myrtle Beach organizer Bert Cassels announced 25 FEB that a flight to the National WWII Memorial in Washington D.C. has been scheduled for 10 NOV. Columbia-based Honor Flight South Carolina is working with Cassels to fly WWII veterans for a no charge day-trip to Washington, D.C. Cassels said, "This is a way to honor local veterans. A lot have not been to Washington, D.C., or seen the memorial they fought for or built." The Honor Flight Grand Strand/Myrtle Beach is the fourth region in South Carolina to be added to the national program. Flights have left from Columbia, Charleston and Kershaw, officials said. Cassels, who will be a guardian on the Columbia flight in April, said some of the vets may be in wheelchairs or disabled and need help traveling. To help with Myrtle Beach's fundraising efforts, Honor Flight South Carolina has split a $10,000 donation from Verizon Wireless with the Grand Strand/Myrtle Beach chapter.

Fund raising efforts began in December for Honor Flight Southwest Minnesota. The first flight to Washington DC will be in the Spring of this year. It is anticipated that 110 to 120 WWII veterans and 50-60 guardians will fly on a chartered 737 for the two-day trip. Throughout the four most southwestern counties of Minnesota, fund raisers are being conducted in an attempt to raise $136,000 to help provide a two-day trip at no charge to the vets for World War II Veterans who might wish to make a trip to Washington, D.C. to visit the World War II Memorial and the Korean War Memorial. The contingent would also attend ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery.

Honor Flight works on trips for World War II veterans who want to visit their national memorial in Washington, D.C., but don't have the means to get there. Each trip costs about $60,000, which covers the chartered flight, meals and a tour bus for veterans. About 100 people go on each flight. The trips are funded through donations and guardians, who pay $500 to go and assist vets on the trips. For more information about the Myrtle Beach Honor Flight, contact Bert Cassels at (843) 957-8212. For more information or to participate in Honor Flight Southwest Minnesota, call (507) 220-0848. For further information on the Honor Flight Network program, call (937) 521-2400 or go to www.honorflight.org. [Source: SunNews.com Janelle Frost article 24 Feb 2010 ++]

===============================

VA PRIVATE INSURANCE BILLING: A House subcommittee was warned 23 FEB that more aggressive billing of private insurers for health care received at veterans hospitals and clinics may be a way to cut costs — but it’s also fraught with errors. Blake Ortner, a legislative aide with Paralyzed Veterans of America, said if Congress and the Obama administration “are going to continue to rely on massive collections estimates and dollars actually collected to support the VA health care budget, then serious examination of how VA is achieving these numbers is necessary.” According to 2011 budget documents, the Veterans Affairs Department collected $2.7 billion from private insurers or veterans in 2009 and expects to collect $3.3 billion in 2011 and $3.6 billion in 2012. Ortner said PVA, an organization that focuses on service members with spinal cord injuries, “continues to be seriously concerned about reports of VA’s continued inappropriate billing of ... veterans for service-connected injuries as well as nonservice-connected veterans being billed multiple times for the same treatment.”

The problem, he said, is that many veterans pay the charges. The association “believes that many veterans are not aware of these mistakes and simply submit full payment to VA when a billing statement arrives at their home,” he said. “Inappropriate charges for VA medical services place unnecessary financial stress on individual veterans and their families,” he said in testimony before the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee’s health panel. “These inaccurate charges are not easily remedied, and their occurrence places the burden for correction directly on the veteran, their families or caregivers.” The national commander of Veterans of Foreign Wars raised similar concerns in early February when the Obama administration released its 2011 budget plan. Glen Gardner Jr., a Vietnam veteran, said he worries that increased collections from veterans’ private health insurance will result in higher premiums and fees for veterans if insurance companies try to pass along the costs — which means veterans would end up subsidizing their own injuries. Gardner also said veterans might have problems getting private insurance for themselves and their families, and employers might be reluctant to hire veterans if companies fear that they may end up paying higher insurance costs. [Source: MilitaryCorpsTimes Rick Maze 24 Feb 2010 ++]

===============================

MOBILIZED RESERVE 23 FEB 2010: The Department of Defense announced the current number of reservists on active duty as of 23 FEB 2010. The net collective result is 1186 fewer reservists mobilized than last reported in the 15 JAN 09 Bulletin. At any given time, services may activate some units and individuals while deactivating others, making it possible for these figures to either increase or decrease. The total number currently on active duty from the Army National Guard and Army Reserve is 110,806; Navy Reserve, 6,574; Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve, 16,790; Marine Corps Reserve, 6,399; and the Coast Guard Reserve, 762. This brings the total National Guard and Reserve personnel who have been activated to 141,331, including both units and individual augmentees. A cumulative roster of all National Guard and Reserve personnel who are currently activated may be found at http://www.defense.gov/news/d20100223ngr1.pdf . [Source: DoD News Release No.147-10 dtd 24 Feb 2010 ++]

===============================

VA CLAIMS BACKLOG UPDATE 35: Veterans groups are launching a coordinated attack on Capitol Hill, joining forces to get benefits flowing more quickly to soldiers injured in Iraq and Afghanistan. The lobbying offensive comes as a new generation of the military begins heavily using veterans benefits — and right before Congress begins to set budget levels for fiscal 2011 for the Department of Veterans Affairs. “We’re coordinating fires,” said Paul Rieckhoff, president of the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, whose members were on the Hill last week. Representatives of Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States and the Disabled American Veterans will be coming to Washington in the weeks ahead, and they’re all pushing the same message: The Department of Veterans Affairs disability claims processing system is outmoded and ill-equipped to handle the next
generation of America’s vets, including the 35,000 troops who have been wounded in the wars so far.
Veterans groups say tedious forms and a backlog of nearly 1 million claims mean that disabled veterans can be left waiting for months to find out about their disability compensation. “These folks are fighting overseas, and then they have to come home and fight red tape. It shouldn’t be that hard,” Rieckhoff said. “The average disability claim takes over 150 days. If you appeal, the average is two years. So you have disabled combat vets who are waiting two years for determination.” By the VA’s own admission, the problem is about to get worse. In 2011, Secretary Eric Shinseki estimates, there will be a 30 percent increase over the number of claims received last year — in part because of the department’s expansion of benefits for Agent Orange-related complications. The VA’s deputy press secretary, Drew Brookie, says the department is aware the system needs an overhaul. “There is a family member, husband, wife, son and daughter behind every veteran that uses VA benefits,” he said. “VA does not take that responsibility lightly.”

Brookie points to a number of initiatives launched by the VA — from increased hiring and training to pilot programs meant to streamline and speed the VA’s decision making — as evidence that the department is committed to making improvements. The Obama administration has asked for an additional $460 million in its fiscal 2011 budget proposal to address the claims backlog. The money would allow the VA to hire more than 4,000 new claims processors. Veterans groups want to be sure members of Congress hear the message. “Everybody wants to be on the side of veterans, but they need help,” Rieckhoff said. “We’re here to help them understand it’s not just about numbers; it’s about people.” “We believe the president has committed to reducing backlog and so has Secretary Shinseki, but again we’re not sure we’re on the same page yet, even with the VA,” said Joseph Violante, national legislative director of the DAV. “We want to make sure that through our efforts, members of Congress are educated.” [Source: POLITICO Marin Cogan article 23 Feb 2010 ++]

===============================

VA HOMELESS VETS UPDATE 13: Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric Shinseki on 19 FEB promised a "full court press" to alleviate homelessness and other critical issues facing the 23.4 million veterans in the U.S. Shinseki emphasized that he and the Obama administration are committed to addressing programs of greatest concern to veterans: reducing the growing backlog of claims, improving health care facilities, creating more access to health care in rural areas, and helping more veterans, especially those who are homeless, get jobs and educational opportunities. "Ending homelessness among veterans involves a host of other things," he said. "It is about jobs. It is about education." Shinseki, a retired U.S. Army general who spent time at Fort Bliss during his military career, met in private with veteran leaders and U.S. Rep. Silvestre Reyes (D-El Paso), U.S. Rep. Ciro Rodriguez (D-San Antonio), and U.S. Rep. Harry Teague (D-NM). "The veterans came away satisfied that we have a partner," Teague said. "He openly addressed the hurdles that we face in the VA. He's not trying to sweep them under the carpet." [Source: El Paso Times article 20 Feb 2010 ++]

===============================

BURN PIT TOXIC EMISSIONS UPDATE 11: As Veterans Affairs Department officials laid out a plan for the Institute of Medicine to look for links between certain symptoms and burn-pit exposure, they also quizzed Defense Department scientists about what they’ve already done in that regard. “We have a particular need to solve this as best as we can,” said Victoria Cassano, acting director of VA’s Environmental Agents Service. “You tell us what the science is. You tell us what the evidence is. Do we have enough to [move] forward with a presumption or not?” At the first meeting of the IOM’s Committee on the Long-Term Health Consequences of Exposure to Burn Pits in Iraq and Afghanistan, Cassano asked the panel to help VA determine if the symptoms of several sick service members could be linked to exposure to smoke from open-air burn pits in the war zones. If so, Congress could create a law saying veterans potentially connected could automatically receive a “presumption of service connection” for those ailments, similar to a law that assumes service connection for Vietnam Veterans whose diseases could have come from exposure to the defoliant Agent Orange in Vietnam.

After Military Times first began writing about the 24-acre burn pit at Joint Base Balad, Iraq, in late 2008, more than 500 people came forward to say they believe they had been sickened by the burn pits. Their issues range from respiratory — including more than 50 cases of bronchiolitis documented by a doctor at Vanderbilt University, as well as several cases of chronic bronchitis, asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder — to neurological conditions to cancer. R. Craig Postlewaite, the Pentagon’s acting director for force health protection and readiness, quickly went over a series of studies conducted by the Defense Department that found that air samples taken at Balad should cause no long-term health effects. But he acknowledged that respiratory issues had gone up in service members who had deployed — although not specifically chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or asthma. He also said a study of 25 serum samples showed no elevated levels of dioxin from service members at Balad. Postlewaite said that in the past, the onus has been on veterans to prove exposure for disability benefits purposes. “We’re trying to move beyond that,” he said, adding that the Defense Department is trying to be more open and transparent. Postlewaite did not discuss the research done at Vanderbilt University.

One of the scientists in charge of the air sampling at Balad several years ago, retired Air Force Lt. Col. Darrin Curtis, told Military Times the data from that sampling was “worthless” because the data-gathering equipment depended on weather patterns and power supplies that could not always be predicted or controlled. Postlewaite acknowledged some limitations on the data that is in hand. “We can’t assume everyone was exposed to the same concentrations,” he said. “We do acknowledge there are shorter-term effects, and that service members have reported long-term effects, as well. It is plausible that a smaller number of service members may be affected by longer-term health effects.” Commanders in Iraq and Afghanistan have said they will replace burn pits with incinerators wherever feasible, but some say it will not be possible, Postlewaite said. But as he and other Defense Department officials spoke, the questions began. Scientists worried that many of the military studies had not been peer-reviewed, that some had not been published, that a “study” of 25 serum samples shouldn’t be called a “study,” that the military had not conducted air-dispersion models to see where the smoke from the Balad burn pit might travel, and that even a couple of years’ worth of air sampling data would not qualify as enough to make any conclusions had the information been gathered in the U.S.

Coleen Baird, program manager for the Army’s Environmental Medicine Program, explained that the serum study was really just a pilot program to see if a broader study was warranted, and she agreed that she does not yet have enough data — which she has been saying all along, even as she has worked to gather more. She said military researchers still need to determine whether gathering air samples is even worthwhile, or if they should look in another direction. “We did it to see what we would find,” she said of the air sampling. Baird also said she believed the respiratory study Postlewaite mentioned used “very combined rates” that didn’t show a true picture of what was happening to troops in Iraq and Afghanistan.
• First, “deployed” meant anywhere without a permanent medical facility — so it could include places beyond Iraq and Afghanistan;
• Second, when she visited Iraq in the fall, medical providers told her that if troops believe their watery eyes or runny nose are caused by something — sand, wind or burn pit — they generally won’t go see a doctor. So most people who had ailments they now believe are connected to burn-pit exposure would not have been reported in databases for the study; and
• Third, she said, officials did, in fact, find a measurable increase in the rate of post-deployment chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder — from about 20 per 1,000 people-years to 30 per 1,000 people-years.

Rep. Tim Bishop, R-N.Y., also briefed the IOM committee about what Congress has done over the past year to try to ban the burn pits, create a registry of possibly exposed service members, and educate VA doctors about the potential exposures and symptoms. He read off a list of service members Military Times documented who lived in Balad’s H6 housing area — one mile from the base’s 10-acre burn pit, which was closed last October — who are now sick. “Our country’s difficult experience with Agent Orange and the Gulf War have taught us we have to be vigilant,” he said. “This study by the National Academies is an important step forward. My colleagues and I in Congress will continue to monitor this situation very closely.” [Source: MarineCorpsTimes Kelly Kennedy article 24 Feb 2010 ++]

===============================

TAPS: It's a song burned into the American consciousness, a tune that wafts over both sleep and death. And it's a piece that some believe hasn't been given the recognition it deserves. What has come to be known as 'Taps' --- 24 notes that floated from a Civil War encampment at nightfall to become the tune that sends to their final rests fallen troops, policemen and firefighters, departed veterans and even presidents of the United States --- may soon be given a more official place in the roster of national melodies. "My idea is to have [Taps] recognized as our National Song of Remembrance," said Jari Villanueva, a retired trumpet and bugle player for the U.S. Air Force Band who may very well be the country's leading authority on Taps. A veteran of more than 5,000 ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery, Villanueva was an adviser on bugle calls for the movie 'Gods and Generals.' He has researched Taps, written about it, debunked myths about it (it was not found by a Union officer on the body of his son, a Confederate soldier) and offers what is probably the best history yet of the tune on a West Point Web site.

Now, along with fellow bugler Les Hampton, a Navy vet, Villanueva is working with a New York lawmaker to get Congress to officially recognize "Taps" as a song of remembrance. They hope to have this done in time for the 150th anniversary of "Taps" in 2012. As far as who would be officially eligible to have Taps played at their funeral if it does become the National Song of Remembrance, Villanueva takes a broad view. Besides troops and veterans, he said, police officers, firefighters, first responders, public health service workers --- even the Boy Scouts. "My feeling is if you rate a flag on your coffin you rate Taps." According to Villanueva, the music of Taps had its origins in "Extinguish Lights," an end-of-day bugle call adapted from a French tune. But in 1862, while encamped at Harrison's Landing, Va., Union Army Gen. Daniel Butterfield revised the tune - holding certain notes longer, etc. Taps was quickly picked up by other buglers in other units, and after the Civil War and became an official Army bugle call. Villanueva and Hampton met several years ago through playing memorial services and began thinking of ways to bring attention to the need for Taps players. The rising numbers of World War II and Korea vets passing away, as well as troop losses in Iraq and Afghanistan, has resulted in greater demand for buglers.

Several years ago the military began making a bugle insert that played Taps available to veterans groups. The discrete device plays the notes while the "bugler" --- standing away from the grave site --- holds the instrument to his lips and pretends to play."It's something that's used a lot now. It is disappointing, but sometimes no one bothers to look for a live bugler. It's a matter of convenience." Villanueva said. While brainstorming the fake bugler problem they hit on the idea of elevating Taps to an official national song. Hampton said Rep. John Hall (D-NY), has been working with them to frame legislation. According to Villanueva, the earliest official reference to Taps for a military funeral is found in Army regulations from 1891. But he says it was doubtlessly used unofficially long before then, though still called 'Extinguish Lights'. Later still officials from other countries came up with their own versions of Taps, some sounding very much like the Army's. A French general wrote 'Aux Morts' ('To the Dead') --- after hearing Taps, Villanueva said; it sounds much like Taps and has the same number of notes. The Germans came up with a solo trumpet call later, as did the Italians. The British wrote and adopted "The Last Post" ; after "Taps" became known, and that song is now played by all Commonwealth countries for its fallen troops and veterans, Villanueva said. As part of their efforts to raise awareness of "Taps," the two have set up an online petition and hope to get as many names in support as possible. They're also producing a CD that will include 'Extinguish Lights,' Taps, and other tunes that were inspired by Taps. [Source: Military.com article 23 Feb 2010 ++]

===============================

RAO page 3

KOREAN WAR VETS: The Friends of American Veterans of Korean War (FAVKW) are extending an invitation to their annual 'Appreciation Dinner, Ceremony, Concert and Dancing, Symposium and Prayer' in honor of American Veterans of Korean War. More than 800 veterans and their spouse attended the 2009 Appreciation Event held in Las Vegas. This year’s event will be held 13-14 JUN 2010 at The Orleans Hotel, 4500 W. Tropicana Ave., Las Vegas (1-800-675-3267, www.orleasnscasino.com). Attendees do not have to be a member of the KWVA. All vets who served in Korea from 1945 to present are eligible to participate. FAVKW will be inviting as many 1000-1200 American Korean War veterans from across the USA. They plan to provide a full accommodation for one night and two days (June 13: lunch, dinner and room/ June 14: breakfast and lunch) to veterans and their spouses if they come to the venue by their own expense for transportation. If you are interested in attending you should directly inform FAVKW by 31 MAR 2010 via one of the below means. In early MAY they plan to send the formal invitation to all of those who informed their participation. To read the letter announcing this event and a complete a complete itinerary of events refer to the FAVKW Invitation Letter attached to this Bulletin:
• Mail to: FAVKW, 9636 Garden Grove Blvd. Suite 17, Garden Grove, CA 92844
• Phone Call to: Mrs. Sunny Lee (1-562-922-3656) or Mr. Do-young Kim (1-714-452-3006)
• E-mail to: gasiri0112@yahoo.com
[Source: KWVA Secretary Frank E. Coheel letter dtd 15 Jan 2010 ++]

===============================

JOHN D. BOWER VETERANS SCHOLARSHIP: A 1975 graduate of Lynchburg College has given $250,000 to his alma mater to create a scholarship fund for veterans. Dr. John D. Bower is encouraging others to follow his lead, promising another $250,000 if donors can match that amount. If that challenge is met, Lynchburg College said it will create a veterans center on campus. Bower is a retired medical doctor who served four years in the Navy before attending Lynchburg College. The Veterans Scholarship Fund will provide annual scholarships to eligible veteran students with a 3.0 grade point average or higher. [Source: NavyTimes AP article 19 Feb 2010 ++]

===============================

MILITARY STOLEN VALOR UPDATE 15: Michael P. McManus, a 44-year-old former Army private first class who served from 1984 to 1987 was arrested 5 FEB for stolen valor. His fraud was revealed when Mary Schantag learned of McManus when a friend’s brother sent her photos he took of McManus at the 12 DEC inauguration for Houston Mayor Annise Parker. The goateed man was decked out in a formal Army uniform with a dozen medals pinned to his jacket and a Commander of the British Empire medallion hanging around his neck. Schantag posted photos of the man to the P.O.W. Network site and sent them to This Ain’t Hell, where the photo was posted at the center of a mock “wanted” poster. To blogger Mark Seavey, the “general” was an obvious fraud. Seavey’s fellow bloggers at the conservative “This Ain’t Hell” posted a photo of the alleged faker online, dead set on smoking him out. “Wearing two Distinguished Service Crosses and a Combat Infantry Badge with two stars, is analogous to saying someone is a pitcher for the Red Sox and a quarterback for the Patriots,” said Seavey. “If that person existed, you would know about them.” The blog post led to tips, angry comments, media attention and ultimately the McManus arrest. It’s not a first for Seavey and the blog’s volunteer staff. Seavey said they have exposed about a dozen others who have claimed unearned medals or insignia, and publicized other cases. Seavey and his fellow bloggers are among a cadre of self-appointed stolen-valor police.

One of these is Mary Schantag, co-founder of the P.O.W. Network. Schantag and her husband, disabled Vietnam veteran Charles Schantag, founded the P.O.W. Network 20 years ago to record the biographies of prisoners of war online. The work’s flip side became weeding out and exposing people who have lied about their military service. The Web site, www.pownetwork.org , maintained from their Missouri home, includes a “phonies index” of more than 3,000 alleged cases of stolen valor. The couple collects information and attempts to verify it through official channels and volunteer researchers. When they suspect fraud, they send the information to the FBI and post it online. “We get 10 or 15 of these in a row sometimes,” she said. “[McManus] is not unusual, not in claiming the rank. We have dozens we have turned over to the FBI and we’re still waiting,” said Schantag. Fakers typically make complex or impossible claims and like to pose as elite troops, Schantag said. “We see Marine-recon-sniper-Navy-SEALs. Now, come on,” she said. “There are 300 reported fake SEALs for every real SEAL who has ever graduated [Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL] training. It crosses every boundary, every rank, every race, every job. We get preachers turned in, we get active-duty military turned in.”

Mark Seavey’s day job is news media manager for the American Legion, but he blogs about stolen-valor cases and other military topics in his spare time for This Ain’t Hell. For Seavey, whose blog dubbed McManus “Gen. Ballduster McSoulpatch,” the first big break was an anonymous tip saying the man’s name is Michael P. McManus. From there, readers pointed Seavey toward references to McManus across the Internet. These included several online profiles of McManus, which contained conflicting information about his rank, separation date and record. “He claimed to do every job in the military that I could find, and the time frames sometimes covered each other up,” said Seavey. “He retired at least twice at two different levels, according to his story. At one point he was out in 2004, and another he retired in February 2008.” Among the information online, McManus claimed that he was on Gen. Colin Powell’s personal security detail, that he came out to Powell as a homosexual and that Powell retained him anyway. Separately, in the context of his opposition to “don’t ask, don’t tell,” he claimed to have been discharged for being gay.

Seavey said that he has started to see a trend in which fraudsters lie about their service records to further their personal or political agendas, either for or against the war, or targeting military policies. After This Ain’t Hell reported on McManus, the Houston press followed suit. That, in turn, prompted the local FBI to investigate and arrest McManus, according to a law enforcement official. It emerged that McManus has been caught before making false claims about himself. In 2002, he faced federal charges for impersonating an air marshal and an Army major while trying to board a flight in New Orleans. McManus faces five new accusations of violating federal law related to wearing the unauthorized military uniform, the military badges and insignia. If convicted, he faces up to three years in federal prison and $120,000 in fines. On 9 FEB, a federal judge set McManus’s bond at $25,000 and set special conditions for his release. McManus must continue “mental health treatment,” submit to a drug screening every 45 days and refrain from the use of credentials and identification documents or wearing of any U.S. or international uniform. [Source: ArmyTimes Joe Gould article 22 Feb 2010 ++]

===============================

AIRLINE BAGGAGE FEES: There's no evidence that airlines will cut baggage fees as their business recovers. Delta on 12 JAN boosted its fees for domestic travel to $23 for the first checked bag and $32 for the second one, up from $15 and $25, respectively. That's if you pay in advance online. At the airport, those fees rise to $25 for the first bag, $35 for the second one. It's not much better at other airlines. US Airways charges the same as Delta for domestic flights at the airport but offers a slightly bigger discount for online payment. American and United charge $20 for the first bag, $30 for the second (although United offers a $5 per bag discount for online payment). Of the major airlines, only Southwest charges no fee for the first or second item of checked luggage. So what can you do to avoid baggage fees? Here are three suggestions:

1.) Pack light so that everything fits in a single carry-on suitcase. There are several good websites, complete with suggested packing lists, that can help whittle down that three-bag trousseau. For a comprehensive, life-changing look at packing try OneBag.com. Also, check out suggestions at http://www.career-intelligence...t/HowToPackLight.asp or www.reidsguides.com/t_pa/t_pa_packing_list.html. True, you may have to seriously adjust your travel lifestyle. But packing light can be excellent practice, since Americans are already having to do more with less in most areas of their economic lives. "I don't think I've ever paid a bag fee," says Doug Dyment, travel speaker and author at OneBag.com, who travels with a single carry-on weighing about 20 pounds. He suggests that people make a permanent packing list for a lifetime of travel. Although the list varies a little from trip to trip depending on the destination's climate, "it's amazing how quickly you can learn to make that list surprising short," he adds.
2.) Ship excess clothes ahead of time. A large priority mail flat-rate package will hold two-thirds of what a carry-on does and only cost $14.50 ($13.95 online) to ship across the country. The post office offers two to three-day delivery to most domestic destinations. It should be noted that the postal service doesn't guarantee priority mail delivery within a specified time.
3.) Fly Southwest (or JetBlue, which doesn't charge for the first checked bag). Of course, that means you won't be able to fly to certain cities like Atlanta, Cincinnati, Honolulu, or Memphis. In cases like Miami and Washington, D.C., the airlines serve airports that aren't too far away from the city limits, although the ground transportation might cost you more than the price of a checked bag.
[Source: Christian Science monitor Laurent Belsie article 12 Jan 2010 ++]

===============================

VET CEMETERY MISSOURI: The Missouri Veterans Commission has created a network of Veterans cemeteries so that every Missouri Veteran will have reasonable access to a Veterans cemetery. Interment services are provided to Veterans, their spouses, and eligible dependent children. There is no charge for any of the services provided. These services include opening and closing of the grave, provision of a concrete grave liner, full military honors for the Veteran, and perpetual care. In order to maintain uniformity, upright granite markers are provided by the cemetery. Those who choose cremation have the choice of in-ground burial or placement within a columbarium niche. Interment services are conducted Monday through Friday on hourly intervals. Scheduling is coordinated by the funeral home and Veterans cemetery. If you have specific questions about scheduling procedures, contact the nearest State Veterans Cemetery. Pre-registration for future planning purposes is available for Veterans and their eligible family members. As well as pre-planning for future burial at each of the veteran cemeteries. This can be done by contacting the state veterans’ cemetery nearest you or by submission of the pre-certification application available for download at www.mvc.dps.mo.gov/Cemeterys/forms/forms.htm . State Veterans cemetery contact information is:
• Bloomfield: 17357 Stars and Stripes Way, Bloomfield MO 63825 Tel: 573-568-3871/3421F Email: Ken.Swearengin@mvc.dps.mo.gov.
• Fort Leonard Wood (Temporary Office): 194 Eastlawn Avenue, Suite A, P.O. Box 960, St. Robert, MO 65584 Tel: 573-336-4291/4403F Email: Leah.Piland@mvc.dps.mo.gov.
• Higginsville: 20109 Business Hwy. 13, Higginsville MO 64037 Tel: 660-584-5252/955F Email: Jess.Rasmussen@mvc.dps.mo.gov.
• Jacksonville: 1479 County Road 1 675, Jacksonville MO 65260 Tel: 660-295-4237/4259F Email: Gerry.Hodge@mvc.dps.mo.gov.
• Springfield: 5201 South Southwood, Springfield MO 65804 Tel: 417-823-3944/0252F Email: Steve.Maples@mvc.dps.mo.gov.

Guidelines for burial in a state veteran’s cemetery are:
• Death occurred while on active duty.
• Veteran must have been discharged under conditions other than dishonorable.
• Vetdrans must have served 24 consecutive months on active duty or the full period for which called to active duty for service after 7 SEP 80 for enlisted and after 16 OCT 81 for officers.
• Reservists or members of the National Guard who are eligible for retired pay as a result of 20 years creditable service are entitled to interment in a Missouri State Veterans Cemetery. Reservists and members of the National Guard who are called to active duty by Presidential Executive Order and who satisfactorily complete the period for which they are called to duty are eligible.
• Citizens who served in the armed forces of a government allied with the United States during wartime may be eligible.
• Any Veteran convicted of a federal or state capital crime is barred from burial in a Missouri State Veterans Cemetery. This prohibition also includes those Veterans who commit capital crimes but avoid conviction due to death or flight.
• Former spouses whose marriage to an eligible Veteran was terminated by divorce are not eligible for burial in a Missouri Veterans cemetery.
• There is no residency requirement for interment in a Missouri Veterans Cemetery.
• If unsure of your eligibility status, contact the nearest cemetery director above.

Missouri has four National cemeteries which are maintained by the Veterans Administration. For information on burial in a National cemetery refer to www.cem.va.gov or call the numbers provided below:
• Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery: 2900 Sheridan Road, St. Louis, MO 63125 Tel: (314) 845-8320/8355F. This cemetery has space available to accommodate casketed and cremated remains.
• Jefferson City National Cemetery,1024 East McCarty Street, Jefferson City, MO 65101 Tel: (314) 845-8320/8355F. This cemetery is closed to new interments.
• Springfield National Cemetery, 1702 East Seminole Street, Springfield, MO 65804 Tel: (417) 881-9499/7862F . This cemetery has space available for cremated remains and may be able to accommodate casketed remains in the same gravesite of previously interred family members.
• Union Confederate Monument Site, Union Cemetery, 227 E. 28th Street Terrace, Kansas City, MO 64108. There are no interments at the monument site
[Source: www.mvc.dps.mo.gov/Cemeterys/Info/info.html Feb 2010 ++]

===============================

AMERICA'S LEAST DEADLY HOSPITALS: When contemplating major surgery, many people go to whatever hospital their family doctor recommends. Others chose a hospital for its star surgeon or because they've seen billboard ads touting its specialties. Either way, it can be a fatal mistake. Every year 100,000 people die in hospitals because of preventable complications or hospital-acquired infections. Many more suffer serious harm as a result of well-intended treatments gone awry. Modern care has become so complex that there are lots of things that can go wrong. Teamwork, checklists and attention to detail are crucial at preventing bad outcomes. Having a skilled cancer surgeon won't help you if you get a nasty post-surgical infection--and the staff at the hospital doesn't catch it in time. HealthGrades, a hospital rating company based in Golden, Colo., has singled out 269 hospitals across the country with unusually low mortality and complication rates for 26 different procedures and diagnoses. These include treatment for heart failure, pneumonia, stroke, as well as hip and knee replacement operations, back surgery and stent procedures. The hospitals represent the top 5% in the country at preventing mortality and complications. The hospitals have a 29% lower mortality rate and 9% lower complication rate compared with all other hospitals. The rankings are based on data from 40 million patients on Medicare who were hospitalized between 2006 and 2008.

HealthGrades estimates that if every hospital performed as well as those in the top 5%, it could potentially save 150,132 lives and prevent 13,104 complications in the Medicare population. “There's huge variation in quality," says Dr. Rick May, vice president of clinical consulting for HealthGrades. "Patients need to be careful about evaluating their health care providers before handing over their lives and health." The most surprising part of the list is how many big-name academic hospitals are not on it. Johns Hopkins Hospital and various hospitals affiliated with the University of Pennsylvania weren't good enough to qualify. Harvard's Massachusetts General Hospital and Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles were on the list last year but didn't make the cut this year. May says that prestigious academic centers tend to build a reputation on cutting-edge research and excelling at the unusual, like solving rare cases and treating exotic diseases. They may not always excel at less glamorous basic procedures and treatments, he argues. Regional hospitals were heavily represented in the study, and many of them were part of a larger chain. These included Methodist Hospital in San Antonio, Texas, Good Samaritan Hospital in Dayton, Ohio, and Christiana Hospital in Newark, Del. One advantage of having sister hospitals, says May, is that they can compare data and strive to emulate each other when the outcomes are good:

• Jan Hess, vice president of St. Luke's Hospital in Chesterfield, Mo., says its work on preventing post-operative infections landed it on HealthGrades' list for the eighth consecutive year. When the hospital realized one patient per month was contracting ventilator-associated pneumonia, it worked on strategies to eliminate the problem. Among other tactics, the hospital staff began elevating beds at least 45 degrees and suctioning patients frequently to avoid fluid build-up. There have been no cases of ventilator pneumonia since November 2006.
• The Reading Hospital and Medical Center in West Reading, Pa., has almost halved the average time that heart attack patients have to wait between when they arrive and when a catheter is inserted to open up a blocked artery. National guidelines recommend a standard of 90 minutes, but at Reading the median time in 2009 was 54 minutes. That efficiency can save heart muscle. "We really don't have any magic solutions," says Debra Levengood, assistant vice president of quality management at Reading. "It's a constant effort." The hospital, which specializes in cardiac and stroke care, has also taken other steps such transmitting electrocardiograms before a patient arrives in the emergency room so that doctors can quickly devise a treatment plan.

Thirty-six states had at least one hospital on the HealthGrades list. Dr. Jerod Loeb, executive vice president at the hospital accrediting organization Joint Commission, says that composite rankings like the HealthGrades score should only be used as a starting point. A hospital could be good on average but do a bad job at the particular type of surgery you need. In addition to its composite rankings, HealthGrades offers consumers access to its online database so they can see whether or not a hospital exceeded or beat predicted mortality and complication rates for particular procedures. To identify hospitals in your area go to www.healthgrades.com/find-a-hospital?intcid=WLCM-Hosp and insert your zip code, and then select the treatment you anticipate needing. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services also ranks hospital performance on its Web site Hospital Quality Compare at www.hospitalcompare.hhs.gov/Ho...rch/SearchMethod.asp. Above all, says Loeb, patients should seek information from multiple sources. "It is increasingly clear there is no one single metric that one should use when choosing a health care provider," he says [Source: Forbes.com Rebecca Ruiz article 26 Jan 2010 ++]

===============================

HEALTH CARE AVAILABILITY UPDATE 01: Lack of insurance or timely access to your regular doctor doesn't have to mean going without needed health care. If you're uninsured and seeking stop-gap medical care before you find coverage again, you can triage your way to better health by understanding the trade-offs of several care options, experts say. A retail clinic, urgent-care or community health center may be a suitable fit, depending on the severity of your medical need and your personal preferences. A broad spectrum of care is available, from the limited offerings of a retail clinic to the high-end capacity of an emergency department, said Ateev Mehrotra, a policy analyst at Rand Corp. and a professor at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. They're all places you don't need an appointment, there's open extended hours and they're there to treat people who can't get in to see their regular provider. If you have a regular doctor you'd like to keep seeing but fear you can't pay full price because of lost coverage, give the doctor a chance to work out a charity care arrangement, payment plan or possible treatment changes to lower costs. Most doctors will try to work with patients to assure their continuity of care. Physicians also value that personal relationship that develops. Still, a shortage of primary-care physicians has left many scrambling to keep up with patient demand. The wait time for appointments can be a deal-breaker, forcing patients to look elsewhere for care. Some places to are:

• Retail clinics. Convenience and expense are two reasons uninsured patients who suspect they have a routine, minor ailment such as the flu, strep throat, simple bronchitis or a skin condition should consider visiting a retail clinic, Mehrotra said. Retail clinics also typically offer vaccinations and physicals for school, camp or sports on a walk-in basis, and they're open evenings and weekends. They're located in national chain stores such as Walgreens and CVS/pharmacy as well as hospital systems. They're staffed by nurse practitioners or physician assistants who can diagnose, treat and prescribe medication. Unlike emergency rooms and other health-care settings where there's no way to know how much the final bill will be, retail clinics post their prices on a menu board and often online. Patients "know exactly what they're going to pay. CVS/pharmacy stores, for example, have 500 MinuteClinics in 25 states. They're all open seven days a week and have weekday evening hours, and the average cost of treatment is $62. Retail clinics offer a quality of care equivalent to that of urgent-care centers and private doctor's offices, according to a 2009 study from Rand Corp. Its typical patients are young adults with no regular health-care provider. Limitations are patients looking for a doctor or on-site X-ray or lab facilities won't find them at retail clinics, and many won't treat babies and toddlers younger than 18 months.
• Urgent-care centers. These offer care that's more comprehensive care than at retail clinics but not as complete as in hospital emergency departments. They also don't take appointments but offer doctors and treatment for mid-level problems such as simple fractures, sprains, bruises, burns and cuts requiring stitches. Many also treat asthma and bladder infections. "Our goal is to get people in, treated and out within an hour," said Jim Greenwood, chief executive of Concentra, a Dallas-based health-care and wellness provider that owns and operates more than 300 urgent-care clinics in 40 states. Transparent pricing also has caught on at Concentra, which shows in English and Spanish the cost of three levels of service, which typically range from $95 to $190. Concentra's urgent-care centers are located closer to where people work than where they live, and many have extended hours to accommodate people's work schedules. Back pain is one of the top reasons patients seek care there, and each center is staffed with a doctor and a physical therapist, Greenwood said. "The beauty of our model is the physician and the physical therapists are communicating," he said. "They know if the patient is getting better or not with physical therapy." Limitations are that like retail clinics, urgent-care centers typically don't treat infants. Costs are 30% to 40% higher than at retail clinics, reflecting more staff training and resources, Mehrotra said.
• Community health centers. These are nonprofits that are used to serving uninsured people and those with low incomes. They charge patients on a sliding fee scale according to federal guidelines and based on a person's ability to pay. "It's a good place to come and feel welcome without being embarrassed if you don't have the insurance or you don't have the money," said Lolita Lopez, president of Westside Family Health Care in Wilmington, Del. Many health centers help patients with chronic conditions such as diabetes manage their ailments so they don't end up in costly emergency rooms. Community health centers don't consider themselves one-shot deals. They offer an array of primary and preventive care, sometimes including dental clinics, optometry, pediatric and obstetric/gynecology services under one roof. They often function as a medical home, a place where a patient can come back over time as their medical needs change. "Their focus is on continuity of care while retail clinics, urgent care and ERs are treating one problem and don't necessarily have to see you again," Mehrotra said. Limitations are most community health centers require appointments and documentation of income. Wait times can be long as resources are stretched thin.
• Hospital emergency rooms. Always open and stocked with life-saving equipment and personnel. Doctors say patients with potentially serious symptoms such as a high fever, shortness of breath or chest pain should seek care there without delay. About half of ER patients are admitted to the hospital. Of all the above options, the ER is by far the most expensive place to receive medical care, and patients with less urgent needs can face long waits before being treated.
[Source: MarketWatch Kristen Gerencher article 17 Feb 2010 ++]

===============================

ARIZONA MEMORIAL UPDATE 01: On 19 FEB thousands of visitors poured into the first phase of a new USS Arizona Memorial Visitor Center, designed to replace the old buildings that have sunk nearly three feet into the unsteady ground around Pearl Harbor. The new visitor center offers a new bookstore that's nearly twice the size of the old one, an education and research center, a snack bar, administrative offices, addition of more and larger bathrooms, and a centralized ticketing operation so visitors can more easily attend the other World War II-era attractions around what's commonly referred to as the USS Arizona Memorial: the USS Bowfin Museum, USS Missouri Memorial and Pacific Aviation Museum-Pearl Harbor. By congressional proclamation, the USS Arizona Memorial has been renamed the "World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument." Its land-based visitor center also will get a new name, but for now it's being called the "USS Arizona Memorial Visitor Center replacement and expansion project."

With the opening of the new, unnamed center construction began on the second phase — on the grounds of the old center — for a total cost of $58 million. Phase two is scheduled for completion by 7 DEC, the 69th anniversary of the Japanese attack. The actual memorial that straddles the remains of the USS Arizona was built in 1962. The original visitor center opened in 1980 on 11 acres of soil that had been dredged to expand the Halawa Basin area. When it opened, the center was designed to sink no more than 18 inches into the reclaimed soil, but instead it dropped more than 30 inches, causing water to seep into the basement and erode the concrete structure. It also was designed to accommodate only 2,000 visitors each day — not the 4,500 tourists and residents who actually show up at Hawai'i's No. 1 tourist attraction, which does not charge for admission. The new center was built on top of 180 pilings driven 200 feet into the soil; the pilings are designed to keep the new facility stable, said Tom Fake, regional project director for the National Park Service, which runs the USS Arizona Memorial. When the second phase is finished, the 23,600-square-foot visitor center will be almost twice as large as the old one and will sit on 6 additional acres, for a total area of 17.4 acres. The second phase will include exhibits aimed at looking beyond the Japanese attack, with titles such as "Road to War," "O'ahu 1941," and "Attack and Aftermath." It's intended to open in time for the annual anniversary commemorating the Japanese attack, which has been held at Pearl Harbor's Kilo Pier. This year, the ceremony will return to the visitor center's back lawn, which will be three times larger.

Until the visitor center is complete, tourists will view a 23-minute movie about the Pearl Harbor attack outdoors instead of in the old theater, which will be renovated and upgraded with digital equipment. An undulating roof design that's part of the first phase is intended to improve the air flow outside for visitors, who will look beyond an outdoor exhibit of the Arizona's anchor out toward Pearl Harbor and the Arizona Memorial. "We designed it with comfort in mind for the visitors," Fake said. "We provided lots of shade, lots of seating areas.' U.S. Sen. Daniel K. Inouye (D-HI) was instrumental in securing both federal and private money for the new visitor center. "We've been waiting for this a long time — a building that we hope will never sink," Inouye told The Advertiser after the ceremony. "More importantly, this building will bring all the forces together — not just the Arizona, but the Missouri, the Bowfin, all the heroes. That's the way it should be." [Source: Honolulu Advertiser Dan Nakaso article 19 Feb 2010 ++]