RI Veterans: Did you know? 18 June 21 – John A. Cianci

RI Veterans: Did You Know?

by John A Cianci, Department Veterans Service Officer,

                             Italian American War Veterans (ITAM)

Free America the Beautiful Passes to National Parks for Veterans and Gold Star Families

Did you know the National Park Service since Veterans Day 2020, Gold Star Families and US military veterans are eligible to receive free access to more than 2,000 federal recreation areas, including national parks, wildlife refuges, and forests. The free access program is a way to thank America’s veterans and Gold Star Families for their support of our country and to encourage them to explore recreational opportunities on their public lands and waters. If you were to purchase this annual pass, it would cost you $80.

Did you know you can obtain the pass in person at federal recreation sites that charge entrance or standard amenity fees, which includes one in Rhode Island, Roger William National Memorial, Providence, RI, (401) 521-7266, or online https://store.usgs.gov/pass.

Nature is a powerful force in healing. The free pass covers entrance to National Park Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service sites that charge entrance fees, and covers standard amenity fees at Forest Service, Bureau of Reclamation Sites, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers sites. The pass admits the pass owners and any accompanying passengers in a private non-commercial vehicle at per vehicle fee areas, or the pass owner and up to 3 adults( 16 years and older) and no entry fee charged for children 15 and under. The entrance fee waiver does not cover expanded amenity or user fees for activities such as camping, transportation, special recreation permits, reservation fees or special tours.

The America the Beautiful – The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass Series includes different options of interagency passes that provide access to more than 2,000 federal recreation areas across the United States. Participating agencies include the National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, US Forest Service, and US Army Corps of Engineers. Most interagency passes are available through the USGS Online Store. Use the search list below for options to purchase or pick up passes at participating agencies’ sites across the country.

VETTIP Ensure to have photo identification with you as the owner of the pass, you will be asked when using the pass.  

With the free pass, you can access over 400 National parks across America, to include 13 located in Rhode Island and Massachusetts (see below for complete listing). These national parks have direct connections to the American military, including frontier forts, battlefields, national cemeteries, and memorials.

Locally, the pass can be obtained and used Roger William National Park, Providence, RI or obtained online https://store.usgs.gov.

Many of the National parks are historical sites provide veterans and current military members and their families with opportunities for relaxation, recreation, and camaraderie in the great outdoors. Many parks are popular destinations for active adventures like hiking, climbing, cycling, swimming, and scuba diving, while others are known for more tranquil activities such as camping, fishing, wildlife watching, and observing the night sky. NPS.gov provides a map that highlights national parks near Veterans Administration facilities across the country and provides detailed information about each park.

One of my favorites, Cape Cod’s National Seashore, Wellfleet MA. The national seashore includes forty miles of sandy beaches, salt marshes, ponds, and uplands. It also preserves historic buildings and landscapes. In addition to its habitats that provide for species diversity, and its cultural sites which interpret the story of human use, the national seashore provides for many recreational activities that beckon visitors: bicycling, wildlife viewing, swimming, hiking, canoeing, and kayaking. Exhibits, ranger-guided programs, films, and science and history presentations interpret the many facets of the national seashore. More information on Cape Cod’s National Seashore National park, visit their Facebook page or go to http://www.nps gov/caco.

Another hidden America Treasure is Buffumville Lake, Charlton MA, a U.S Army Corps of Engineers recreation site. Buffumville Park is open daily from mid-May through mid-September. The park is a day use fee area containing picnic sites with tables and grills. The Corps maintains a swimming area with a 300 foot long beach. This areas includes two picnic shelters that may be reserved for a nominal fee (www.recreation.gov), a life jacket loaner station, horseshoe pit, volleyball court and a handicap accessible comfort station. This park has a disc golf course at the Buffumville Dam site has 18 professional holes and 12 amateur holes for golfers of all ages. The 7.2 mile Lake Shore Trail starts in the park and extends around the shoreline of the lake. The trail is marked with blue blazes. Park rangers provide special interpretive programs on topics to include natural resources, water safety, and Dam tours.

Pandemic claustrophobic veterans, get your FREE America The Beautiful pass and plan some America the Beautiful road trips visits to  National Parks and Federal Recreational located in RI and MA.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1 Who is eligible to gain free entrance as a Veteran?

For purposes of this program, a veteran is identified as an individual who has served in the US Armed Forces, including the National Guard and Reserves, and is able to present one of the following forms of identification or the Interagency Military Pass when entering a national park: 

• Department of Defense Identification Card (CAC Card) 
• Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC) 
• Veteran ID Card 
• Veterans designation on a state-issued U.S. driver’s license or identification card
• Dependents of deployed military members with DoD Form 1173 may obtain a pass

VETTIP The actual IDs listed above must be presented. Photocopies or digital images are not accepted. Form DD-214 is not accepted. 

Q2 Are passes available for disabled veterans or other people with disabilities? 

Yes. The Interagency Access Pass is a lifetime pass that is free for any US citizen or permanent resident, including a veteran or Gold Star Family member, who has a permanent disability. An Access Pass may also provide discounts for expanded amenities like camping, guided tours etc. For more information visit USGS Store – Access Pass.

Q3 Who is eligible to gain free access as a member of a Gold Star Family? 

Gold Star Families are next of kin of a member of the US Armed Forces who lost his or her life in a “qualifying situation,” such as a war, an international terrorist attack, or a military operation outside of the United States while serving with the US Armed Forces. Eligibility requirements are in section 3.2 of Department of Defense Instruction 1348.36. 

How does a Gold Star Family gain free access to a national park? 

Before visiting a national park site, Gold Star Family members must download and print a voucher to present to park staff, exchange for an annual Interagency Military Pass, or place on the vehicle dashboard at unstaffed sites (representations of the voucher are prohibited; the physical voucher or pass must be present.  


By downloading and signing the voucher, Gold Star Family members are self-certifying that they meet the required criteria as identified in sections 3.2 and 3.3 of Department of Defense Instruction 1348.36.

Following is the self-certification language on the voucher: 

“I hereby affirm that I am an eligible next of kin (NOK) of a member of the United States Armed Forces who lost his or her life in a qualifying situation, such as war, an international terrorist attack or a military operation outside of the United States while serving in the United States Armed Forces, as identified in sections 3.2 (Qualifying Situation) and 3.3 (Eligible NOK) of Department of Defense Instruction 1348.36”

Q3 Does the waiver include others traveling with the veteran or Gold Star Family member? 

Free access is for the veteran or the holder of the Gold Star Family voucher as well as travelling companions who are occupants of a single, private non-commercial vehicle OR the veteran or voucher-holder and three persons (16 and older) where per person fees are charged. The voucher is non-transferrable and void if altered.

Q4 What are the locations in RI, MA, and CT the pass can be used at?

 

Rhode Island

NATIONAL PARK SERVICE Roger Williams National Memorial PROVIDENCE,RI
Phone: (401) 521-7266. Roger Williams National Memorial was established by Congress in 1965 to commemorate Williams’s “outstanding contributions to the development of the principles of freedom in this country.” The memorial, a 4.5 acre urban greenspace located at the foot of College Hill in downtown Providence, includes a freshwater spring which was the center of the settlement of Providence Plantations founded by Williams in 1636. It is on this site that Williams, through word and action, fought for the ideal that religion must not be subject to regulation by the state but, instead, that it should be a matter of individual conscience. It was a remarkable journey that brought Williams to what is now the capital of Rhode Island and to where he put his beliefs into practice, giving “shelter for persons distressed of conscience.”

Massachusetts

NATIONAL PARK SERVICE Adams National Historical Park QUINCY,MA
Phone: (617) 770-1175. From the sweet little farm at the foot of Penn’s Hill to the gentleman’s country estate at Peace field, Adams National Historical Park is the story of “heroes, statesman, philosophers … and learned women” whose ideas and actions helped to transform thirteen disparate colonies into one united nation.

FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge SUDBURY,MA
Phone: (978) 562-3527. Most refuge lands and outdoor spaces have remained open for the public to enjoy, we ask that you Recreate Responsibly.

NATIONAL PARK SERVICE Boston National Historical Park BOSTON,MA
Phone: (617) 242-5642. Outdoor spaces, including the Freedom Trail®, are open to visitors.

US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS, Buffumville Lake, CHARLTON,MA
Phone: (508) 248-5697. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers welcomes you to Buffumville Lake for year-round recreation. Park rangers are available to assist you during your visit. The disc golf course at the Buffumville Dam site has 18 professional holes and 12 amateur holes for golfers of all ages. The 7.2 mile Lake Shore Trail starts in the park and extends around the shoreline of the lake. The trail is marked with blue blazes. Park rangers provide special interpretive programs on topics to include natural resources, water safety, and Dam tours.Buffumville Park is open daily from mid-May through mid-September. The park is a day use fee area containing picnic sites with tables and grills. The Corps maintains a swimming area with a 300 foot long beach. This areas includes two picnic shelters that may be reserved for a nominal fee (www.recreation.gov), a life jacket loaner station, horseshoe pit, volleyball court and a handicap accessible comfort station. See below for pricing details.The outdoor sports enthusiast can hunt, fish and boat at Buffumville Lake. Hunting is not permitted in developed areas of the park and dam site.A concrete boat launch and culvert underneath Oxford Rd. permits boating on both sides of the lake. The launching land and courtesy dock provide easy access to the lake. Two barrier free fishing platforms are available within the boat launching area. The use of watercraft including motorboats, canoes, kayaks, and other vessels is permitted.
 

The three-acre island on the south end of Buffumville Lake is available to rent (primitive camping) for up to one week. The island is extremely primitive with four tent sites, a fire ring, wood shed, picnic tables, and an outhouse. Permit holders must have a boat to reach the island.  Reservations for the island start on January 1 of each year, beginning at one minute after midnight. Email us or leave a detailed phone message and you will be registered according to the time your message comes in

NATIONAL PARK SERVICE Cape Cod National Seashore – Seasonally
Phone: (508) 255-3421. The national seashore includes forty miles of sandy beaches, salt marshes, ponds, and uplands. It also preserves historic buildings and landscapes. In addition to its habitats that provide for species diversity, and its cultural sites which interpret the story of human use, the national seashore provides for many recreational activities that beckon visitors: bicycling, wildlife viewing, swimming, hiking, canoeing, and kayaking. Exhibits, ranger-guided programs, films, and science and history presentations interpret the many facets of the national seashore. More information on Cape Cod’s National Seashore National park, visit their facebook page or go to http://www.nps gov/caco.

FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge SUDBURY,MA. Phone: (978) 443-4661.  Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge is managed as part of the Eastern Massachusetts National Wildlife Refuge Complex.

Situated along the Atlantic Flyway in Massachusetts, the Eastern Massachusetts National Wildlife Refuge Complex is comprised of eight ecologically diverse refuges. The eight individual refuges include inland and coastal wetlands, forests, grasslands, and barrier beaches that provide important habitat for migratory birds, mammals, plants, reptiles and amphibians.

• Assabet River NWR in Sudbury, Stow, Maynard and Hudson
• Great Meadows NWR in Sudbury, Wayland, Lincoln, Concord, Carlisle, Bedford and Billerica
• Mashpee NWR in Mashpee and Falmouth
• Massasoit NWR in Plymouth
• Monomoy NWR in Chatham
• Nantucket NWR in Nantucket
• Nomans Land Island NWR off Martha’s Vineyard in Chilmark
• Oxbow NWR in Harvard, Ayer and Shirley

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service manages these areas to maintain a vital and diverse environment for the areas inhabitants. Refuges are managed to conserve and protect a diversity of native wildlife habitats and species. The refuge complex encompasses several threatened and endangered species, the only federally designated Wilderness Area in southern New England, one structure on the National Register of Historic Places and a National Wild and Scenic River.

US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS Knightville Dam, HUNTINGTON,MA
Phone: (413) 667-3430.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers welcomes you to Knightville Dam. The dam and reservoir area are located in the scenic Berkshire foothills along the East Branch of the Westfield River. Most of the 2,430 acres of the Knightville Dam area is undeveloped. You may enjoy hiking, mountain biking or horseback riding along several miles of trails and old country roads. Cross-country skiing and snowmobiling (limited to the west side of the river) are popular winter activities.The area just below the dam has picnic tables, fireplaces universally accessible public restrooms, drinking water and a picnic shelter. Groups may reserve the shelter in advance for a modest fee.The rivers and streams at Knightville offer excellent trout fishing. The river is stocked with trout in the spring. The surrounding hills provide prime upland game habitat, and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts stocks pheasants in the fall. Hunting and fishing are permitted in accordance with posted restrictions and Massachusetts laws.Each spring, water releases from Knightville Dam are coordinated with those from nearby Littleville Lake to provide challenging flows for the annual Westfield River Wildwater Canoe Races.Located at the northern end of the reservoir, the Indian Hollow Group Campground is available by reservation to community groups such as churches, schools, scouts and clubs. For more information on reservations contact the project office or call toll free at 1-877-444-6777. For more information on hunting or fishing, you can contact the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries & Wildlife.

NATIONAL PARK SERVICE Lowell National Historical Park LOWELL,MA
Phone: (978) 970-5000. Discover the Continuing Revolution. Lowell’s water-powered textile mills catapulted the nation – including immigrant families and early female factory workers – into an uncertain new industrial era. Nearly 200 years later, the changes that began here still reverberate in our shifting global economy. Explore Lowell, a living monument to the dynamic human story of the Industrial Revolution. The National Park runs various programs seasonally. Visitors are recommended to make reservations for all tours in advance as they can fill up quickly. To make a reservation, please call (978) 970-5000. Please check the tours section for more information.

NATIONAL PARK SERVICE Minute Man National Historical Park CONCORD,MA
Phone: (978) 369-6993. At Minute Man National Historical Park the opening battle of the Revolution is brought to life as visitors explore the battlefields and structures associated with April 19, 1775, and witness the American revolutionary spirit through the writings of the Concord authors. Every Spring, Summer and Fall Minute Man offers a variety of ranger programs to the visiting public. Due to the Covid 19 public health crisis the schedule for the 2021 season is yet to be determined. 

NATIONAL PARK SERVICE New Bedford Whaling National Historical ParkNEW BEDFORD,MA Phone: (508) 996-4095. Celebrating the 25th Anniversary, the 25th anniversary of New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park celebrates a quarter century of interpretation, preservation, and partnerships that makes it one of the gems of the National Park System. Visitors to the park and the City of New Bedford are encouraged to explore the cultural resources, historic neighborhoods, and working waterfront managed and maintained by our partners and who embody Strength through Community. This year-long celebration pays tribute to the unique partnership of municipal, institutional, and individuals who advocated for the transformation of downtown New Bedford’s local historic district into a national park. The anniversary honors the relationships that have grown between the park, its partners, and the greater New Bedford communities who attract a wide and diverse audience to the City that Lit the World. 

FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE Parker River National Wildlife Refuge NEWBURYPORT,MA .Phone: (978) 465-5753.Located along the northeast coast of Massachusetts, Parker River National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1941 to provide feeding, resting, and nesting habitat for migratory birds. Most commonly associated with Plum Island – a barrier beach island – the refuge is comprised of more than 4700 acres of diverse habitats including sandy beach and dune, cranberry bog, maritime forest and shrub land, and freshwater marsh. The most abundant habitat on the refuge is its 3,000+ acres of salt marsh, one of the most productive ecosystems in nature. Parker River provides pristine coastal habitat for over 300 species of resident and migratory birds, as well as a large variety of mammals, insects, fish, reptiles and amphibians. The refuge also provides critical habitat for the federally threatened piping plover.In addition to its mission of wildlife conservation, the refuge provides a variety of excellent wildlife-dependent recreational activities, including surf fishing, wildlife observation and photography, a variety of interpretive programs, and seasonal waterfowl and deer hunting opportunities. A large visitor center – complete with a classroom and auditorium – supports many of these public uses.Explore the refuge by kayak: Parker River NWR includes more than 3000 acres of salt marsh. Explore the salt marsh in your kayak by paddling along our water trail. You can download the water trail map and guide by clicking the link below.

NATIONAL PARK SERVICE Springfield Armory National Historic Site SPRINGFIELD,MA Phone: (413) 734-8551. The Springfield Armory National Historic Site is located on the campus of Springfield Technical Community College. If using a GPS, do not use the physical address of the museum. Please use the following address:1 Armory St., Springfield, MA. 01105.For nearly two centuries, the US Armed Forces and American industry looked to Springfield Armory for innovative engineering and superior firearms. Springfield Armory National Historic Site commemorates the critical role of the nation’s first armory by preserving and interpreting the world’s largest historic US military small arms collection, along with historic archives, buildings, and landscapes.

US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS West Hill Dam UXBRIDGE,MA
Phone: (508) 278-2511. West Hill Dam and Park remain open year round. Outside posted hours of operation, please feel free to park at the gates and walk in to enjoy your park. West Hill Park where the West River widens to form a large, natural swimming hole, known locally as Harrington Pool. Tables and grills are available for picnicking in two areas of the park, one near a beach and one under a grove of pines. The park also offers two sandy beaches, a change house and modern rest rooms. Two picnic shelters on a wooded knoll, with electric are available to groups for a small fee. A sand volleyball court, horseshoe pits and accessible playground are nearby. From the parking lot, a 1/2 mile, self-guided nature trail runs down along the river and loop back through the woods.About two miles of hiking trails meander through the woodlands and provide secluded views of the river. Anglers will find trout in he main river channel and bass, pickerel and horned pout in the pools. Hunting for deer, small game and upland birds is permitted in accordance with state laws. Trout and pheasant are stocked by the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife. West Hill Park offers two shelters, one with ten tables that will accommodate a group up to about 100 people, while the other has 4 tables and hosts about 30 people comfortably. No fees.  Shelter reservations will be taken in person only at the project office on a first come, first serve basis.

 EVENTS/MEETINGS

FREE GOLF every Wednesday, Buttonhole, Providence RI, 12:00-3:00pm Veterans, Active Military, and National Guard, can use the range or play 9 holes of golf at no charge. Simply sign-in at the Pro-Shop on Wednesday from noon to 3:00PM.

For more information, contact Don Wright, 401-421-1664 email dwright@burttonhole.org.

FREE Thursday Golf Clinics, Buttonhole, Providence RI , for all Veterans and immediate family. June thru October from 5:00-7:00pm f.The golf clinics are opened to all levels of experiences. Equipment use is free. One ParaMobile golf cart is available. For more information, contact Don Wright, 401-421-1664 email dwright@burttonhole.org.

REUNIONS

Friday, August 6th, 11AM, “Rhode Island National Guard Summer Reunion”, Quonset Officers’ Club, 200 Lieutenant James Brown Road, North Kingstown.  Point of contact is Bob Antonelli at 401.996.3764, or via email at bob02909@cox.net.  Cut-off date is Tuesday, August 3rd.  

September 15-20, 2021, USMC Tankers Association Facility: Crown Plaza Providence-Warwick, 801 Greenwich Ave., Warwick RI 02886. Point of Contact Name: John Wear. Point of Contact Telephone: 719-495-5998. Point of Contact Email: johnwear2@verizon.net . Comments: The USMC Vietnam Tankers Association will be holding our 12th biennial reunion. Anyone who served with any of the Marine tank battalions or Ontos units in Vietnam . . . in any capacity is welcome!!!    

If you have an event, meeting, other pertinent veteran information, or email questions or help needed, contact the Italian American War Veteran Service Officer, John A Cianci, itamrirvets@gmail.com

Rhode Island to consolidate COVID-19 testing sites

Governor McKee and RIDOH Announce COVID-19 Test Site Consolidation Plan

Due to a shift in strategy and focus in the State’s COVID-19 response, Governor Dan McKee and the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) are announcing their plan to consolidate State-run COVID-19 test sites. 

As the pandemic evolves, the State’s testing strategy has become more targeted. Rhode Island is focused on bringing COVID-19 testing to the most vulnerable groups of people in the State. Mobile and pop-up testing has been implemented in places where it is needed the most, like schools, communities with low vaccination rates, travel destinations, and in places where outbreaks have occurred. 

By the end of the month, State-run, larger-volume test sites will be consolidated.

The State will maintain 25 fixed test sites throughout Rhode Island to ensure all residents have access to free and convenient COVID-19 testing. Rhode Islanders also have the option to get tested at retail pharmacies and medical offices.

“The Department of Health and all of our local partners made testing a priority early into the pandemic, which made a world of difference,” said Governor Dan McKee. “Please continue to get tested even if you are vaccinated and have symptoms. Testing will continue to be an important way to keep Rhode Islanders safe as more and more Rhode Islanders across age bands get vaccinated and will help RIDOH identify emerging variants in our communities.” 

Throughout the pandemic, the State has led the nation in COVID-19 testing rates per capita and maintained capacity for large-scale asymptomatic testing. As vaccination rates have increased, demand for COVID-19 testing has decreased. At the height of its testing volume in April, the State was testing 125,000 people per week. The State is now testing approximately 50,000 per week. Even with these decreases, the State maintains the ability to ramp up capacity if needed. 

“The COVID-19 positivity rate in Rhode Island has gone down and vaccination rates are among the highest in the nation,” said Director of Health Nicole Alexander-Scott, MD, MPH. “But the pandemic is not over, and Rhode Islanders need to remain vigilant. COVID-19 testing will continue to be a critical tool in identifying disease and preventing outbreaks.” 

Saturday, June 26, will be the last day of testing at the following sites:

• Barrington Shopping Center: 180 County Rd. Barrington, RI 02806
• Dorrance Street: 79 Dorrance St. Providence, RI 02903
• Park Holm Senior Center: 1 Eisenhower St. Newport, RI 02840
• Stop & Shop Newport: 199 JT Connell Hwy Newport, RI 02840
• K12 CCRI- Newport: 1 John H. Chafee Blvd. Newport, RI 02840
• K12 Pastore Campus: 19 Foster Rd. Cranston, RI 02920

Sunday, June 27, will be the last day of testing at the following sites:

• New England Tech-East Greenwich: 1560 Division Rd. East Greenwich, RI 02818
• New England Tech-Warwick: 2480 Post Road Warwick, RI 02886
• North Providence Mineral Spring: 1967 Mineral Spring Ave. North Providence, RI 02904
• Rhode Island Convention Center Parking Garage: 114 West Exchange St. Providence, RI 02903 (walk-up PCR location at the ticket booth on Sabin Street will remain open)
• Smithfield VFW: 47 Farnum Pike Smithfield, RI 02917
• Stop & Shop Cottage Street-Pawtucket: 368 – 398 Cottage St. Pawtucket, RI 02860
• Walnut Hill Plaza: 1500 Diamond Hill Rd. Woonsocket, RI 02895

If you are not fully vaccinated, you should get tested weekly. If you are fully vaccinated, you should get tested if you develop symptoms of COVID-19 or you are returning from out-of-state travel. Vaccinated travelers are still encouraged to get a COVID-19 test between five and 10 days after out-of-state travel. For a full list of COVID-19 test sites, visit covid.ri.gov/testing.

Seniors would benefit in President Biden’s $6 trillion budget

By Herb Weiss, contributing writer

On May 28, with the release of a $6 trillion budget for fiscal year (FY) 2022, President Joe Biden outlined his values and vision as to how he proposes to revive the nation’s sputtering economic engine as it emerges from the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 72-page budget document, “Budget of the United States,” (with more than a 1,400-page appendix) details his spending priorities that begin next Oct. 1. Biden’s generous budget depends on increasing taxes on America’s corporations (from 21 to 28 percent) and high earners, who received significant tax breaks from the President Trump/GOP tax cuts of 2017.

With the FY 2022 Budget pushing federal debt to the highest levels since World War 1I, Republican lawmakers quickly called the proposal “dead on arrival” in Congress.  However, Cecilia Rouse, chair of President Biden’s Council of Economic Advisors says the Biden Administration is willing to live with a budget deficit to invest in the economy now, especially with low interest rates to borrow; deficits can be reduced later. 

President Biden’s new spending under the just released proposed FY 2022 budget, recognizing his Administration’s priorities, reflects the major proposals already outlined under the administration’s $2.3 trillion American Jobs Plan and $1.8 trillion American Families Plan. Provisions in these two proposals would overhaul the nation’s aging infrastructure and invest in education, childcare, paid family and medical leave, fight climate change. 

President Biden’s spending plan also recognizes priorities outlined in the American Rescue Plan passed earlier this year as well as the Administration’s “skinny” discretionary budget request released in April. Most importantly, it reflects a commitment from the president to safeguard Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security.

Loving It or Hating It Depends on Where You Sit

In remarks delivered Thursday in Cleveland, President Biden made the case for his budget request and what he describes as an investment in the country’s future. “Now is the time to build [on] the foundation that we’ve laid to make bold investments in our families and our communities and our nation,” he said. “We know from history that these kinds of investments raise both the floor and the ceiling over the economy for everybody.”

In the FY 2020 Budget proposal’s “Message from the President”, Biden says, “The Budget invests directly in the American People and will strengthen the nation’s economy and improve our long run fiscal health. It reforms our broken tax code to reward work instead of wealth while fully paying for the American Jobs and American Family Plans over a 15- year period. It will help us build a recovery that is broad-based, inclusive, sustained, and strong,”

Of course, response to Biden’s Spending plan depends on which side of the aisle you are sitting.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) released a statement strongly endorsing Biden’s fiscal blueprint. “Congressional Democrats look forward to working with the Biden-Harris Administration to enact this visionary budget, which will pave the path to opportunity and prosperity for our nation. The Biden Budget is a budget for the people,” she said.

On the other hand, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell strongly opposing Biden’s Budget proposal. “Americans are already hurting from far-left economics that ignores reality,” said McConnell, in a statement. “The Administration’s counterproductive ‘COVID relief bill’ has slowed rehiring. Families are facing painful inflation, just as experts warned the Democrats’ plans might cause. And the Administration wants to triple down on the same mistakes?” said the six-term Republican Kentucky Senator.

With the Democrats holding the slim majorities in the House and Senate and controlling the White House, Biden’s FY 2022 Budget proposal will have more weight than if the Republicans were in the majority, says Dan Adcock, Government Relations and Policy Director at the Washington, DC-based National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare (NCPSSM).

According to Adcock, Biden’s funding numbers will change as his FY 2022 budget proposal goes through the appropriation process in the upcoming months. With its release, Congress can now begin negotiating funding levels and spending bills. Competition for a finite amount of funding will ultimately result in funding level ultimately allotted to programs and agencies by each of the 12 appropriations under their jurisdiction. Funding for most programs important to older Americans is under the jurisdiction of the Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services and Education.

“With 10,000 Baby Boomers turning 65 every day – and the number of seniors projected to double by 2050 – it’s clear that President Biden understands the need to safeguard the older Americans he calls ‘pillars of every community – now and into the future.” Says Max Richtman, NCPSSM’s President and CEO.

Slashing Drug Costs to Pay for Expanding Medicare Coverage

Richtman says that Biden’s fiscal blueprint calls on Congress to allow Medicare to negotiate prices for certain high-cost, life-saving drugs that many seniors currently cannot afford and to require manufacturers to pay rebates when drug prices rise faster than inflation. These reforms could yield over half a trillion in federal savings over 10 years, which could help pay for coverage expansions and improvements, including access to dental, hearing, and vision coverage in Medicare,” he notes. Today, traditional Medicare does not cover routine care like dental checkups or hearing aids.

According to Richtman, President Biden’s budget also includes more than $400 billion in new spending over ten years to expand Home and Community-based Services (HCBS) for low-income seniors and people with disabilities who prefer to receive skilled care in the comfort of their homes and communities, even moreso after the devastation COVID wrought on nursing homes.  

In states that have not taken advantage of Affordable Care Act (ACA) opportunities to expand Medicaid, the budget proposes providing premium-free, Medicaid-like coverage through a federal public option, along with incentives for states to maintain their existing expansions. 

Biden’s FY 2022 budget also urges Congress to improve customer service for Social Security beneficiaries to prescription drug pricing reform to expanded HCBS, adds Richtman.  It also proposes a $1.3 billion (or 9.7%) funding increase for the Social Security Administration.  The increase seeks to improve customer service, including services at SSA’s field offices, state disability determination services, and teleservice centers.

 The Older Americans Act (OAA) provides funding for a wide range of home and community-based services, such as meals-on-wheels and other nutrition programs, in-home services, transportation, legal services, elder abuse prevention and caregivers’ support. These programs help seniors stay as independent as possible in their homes and communities. 

For details about Biden’s FY 2022 Budget proposal and OAA funding levels, made available from the Washington, DC-based National Association of Area Agencies on Aging, go to: https://www.n4a.org//Files/FY22%20PresBudget%20and%20historical%20Labor-HHS%20Appropriations%20Chart.pdf

 Stay Tuned 

The House continues its work on hammering out appropriation bills through subcommittees in June and in the full House in July.  The Senate’s work is expected to begin in mid-Summer and to continue well into September. If the appropriate bills are not passed and signed into law by Oct. 1, Congress will need to pass a continuing resolution to fund the federal government into the first months of FY 2022.

Like most Budget proposals, especially in a partisan Congress, Biden’s spending plan will need to be rewritten to win support from lawmakers on both sides of the aisle. However, it will serve as a roadmap for a Democratic controlled Congress in crafting 12 appropriation spending bills. Partisan bickering during the appropriations process may well force passage of a continuing resolution before Oct. 1 to block a government shutdown. 

Herb Weiss, LRI’12, is a Pawtucket writer covering aging, health care and medical issues. To purchase Taking Charge: Collected Stories on Aging Boldly, a collection of 79 of his weekly commentaries, go to herbweiss.com

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Herb Weiss has enjoyed a distinguished 41 year career in journalism, earning a national reputation as an expert on aging, health care and medical issues. Over 780 articles that he has authored or coauthored have appeared in national, state and local publications. Governor Gina Raimondo appointed Him to the Rhode Island Advisory Commission on aging. Today, Herb’s weekly newspaper column appears in the Pawtucket Times and Woonsocket call, two North Rhode Island daily newspapers, and will now run in RINewsToday.com. Herb and his wife, Patty Zacks, reside in Pawtucket, Rhode Island.

Celebrating Juneteenth in film with the RI Black Film Festival

Ann Clanton, “Speak-Up” contributing writer

Preserving the legacy of Black Wall Street is on full display in June as communities across the country honored Tulsa Oklahoma’s Black Wall Street 100 Years after the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. Collectively our country and the State of Rhode Island will close out the month with the celebration of Junteenth.  The Rhode Island Black Film Festival acknowledges the significance of each of the historic moments by looking forward to how Black owned businesses have come to exist and move towards the future. 

In recognition of Juneteenth (June 19) the Rhode Island Black Film Festival (RIBFF) in partnership with Venture Café Providence is hosting a screening of the documentary BOSS:THE BLACK EXPERIENCE IN BUSINESS.

BOSS is the untold story of African American entrepreneurship, where skill, industriousness, ingenuity and sheer courage in the face of overwhelming odds provide the backbone of this nation’s economic and social growth.

The screening and discussion is part of Venture Café Providence’s weekly network. The screening will be followed by a discussion with business, government and community leaders addressing how to increase resources for African-American and minority businesses in Rhode Island. 

The event will be on Thursday, June 17, 5p.m. at the CIC Building, 225 Dyer Street, Providence, Rhode Island 02906.  To register for the networking event go to the following link  https://bit.ly/3z4LsoI . Registration is required. Seating is limited.

About the RI Black Film Festival

Established in 2017 by communication consultant, Ann Clanton, the Rhode Island Black Film Festival is the only Southern New England Film Festival to screen films that address social and racial justice issues. The Rhode Island Black Film Festival is held annually in April. The Festival features independently produced films and filmmakers of diverse backgrounds from across the globe. RIBFF serves as a creative space for conversations, ideas, and projects by filmmakers of African-American, Caribbean and Afro-Latin descent. 

About District Hall Providence

Venture Cafe-District Hall Providence is a partner of the Rhode Island Black Film Festival. District Hall Providence is activated by Innovation Studio. They are a public home for innovators and entrepreneurs, bringing people together to collaborate through programs, spaces, and other resources. They offer a free public workspace where entrepreneurs can collaborate and work. In addition, they rent out event and meeting space.

Respite Care in the Summertime

The Care Concierge of New England wants to help families place their loved ones in a safe environment.

The next several months are considered fun for most people. School is out for students, families take vacations, camping of all types begin and baseball is in full swing.

It is also a good time to remember the potential issues that arise. Beaches will be overcrowded during hot stretches, people suffering from heat stroke and other hot-weather ailments, pets looking for cooler shelters and other hazards. This can be especially true for seniors, who may live alone and not always be thought of when it comes to constant care.

That’s where Paul Jones, Owner and Lead Concierge of The Care Concierge of New England, located in Slatersville, can help. His company aids families looking to transition their loved ones into senior care facilities throughout Rhode Island and parts of Massachusetts and Connecticut. One of the ways of doing this is offering Respite Care options, where the guest says at a facility for up to 90 days and has all the amenities and privileges of a permanent resident.

Jones said this choice serves multiple purposes and gives everyone a chance to see what’s out there.

“As the Care Concierge, I help seniors and their families navigate the different senior care options to find the best quality of life,” he said. “Too many families still conflate ‘assisted living’ with ‘nursing home’, and worry that exploring senior care is like consigning their loved one to some kind of torture. The reality is that the assisted living industry focuses on comfort and life enrichment. By taking advantage of a respite stay, my hope is that seniors can dispel some of the myths they may be holding onto regarding senior care, and stay safe through the summer heat in the bargain!”

Jones added that seniors are just as vulnerable during the summer as they would be during the winter holidays. Many people are more cognizant of their parents and loved ones during Thanksgiving and Christmas because of the potential for them not having heat in their homes. With summer, it’s not as obvious. Jones likened it to leaving small pets or children in a car. Vehicles can get hot inside fast and creating dangerous situations in the process. The same thing could happen with the elderly in their own homes before anyone realizes something is wrong.

As for helping those who may be “at risk”, Jones said this opportunity could clear up misconceptions about care.

Respite programs began as a way for seniors to assess the assisted living experience. This was a natural response to people being unclear about what assisted living was and how it differed from nursing homes. Assisted living as an industry is still relatively young — most of the large companies trace their roots back to the 1990s or early 2000s — and the irony is the people who are now age-appropriate for assisted living only ever had nursing homes to rely on for their own older loved ones.

“It makes sense that people who are in their 70s-90s today would have very limited knowledge about assisted living, so giving those seniors an opportunity to make a trial run as a resident is smart business sense.

“Beyond that, there’s a genuine component of altruism and safety in offering respite stays,” Jones continues. “In the winter, there are commercials and articles and reminders frequently to check on elderly neighbors and loved ones who may be without heat. It sometimes feels taken for granted that the summer heat can be just as dangerous for isolated seniors. Respite stays in the summer are a good and easy way for seniors to retain their homes and try an assisted living environment for the summer — and to enjoy all that entails being a permanent resident. Meals prepared for them, housekeeping done for them, leisure activities planned for them … assisted living can feel like a summer-long cruise for seniors, without ever leaving land!

Almost every assisted living community offers respite programs for interested seniors. A community may have a cap on how many apartments they reserve for respite stays, but part of the Care Concierge services is to help you secure a great respite apartment.

A respite apartment is easily accessible — as close to ‘plug and play’ as it gets in the senior care world, Jones said. A senior registers for either a 30- 60- or 90-day stay in an apartment, which is already furnished by the community. They bring whatever clothes, personal effects, etc., that they want and decorate the apartment as they desire. If a resident needs care services while they’re on the respite stay, they can receive those care services (these are typically related to Activities of Daily Living such as grooming, shopping, medication management, etc.). Residents are free to enjoy the on-site restaurant three times a day and participate in as many of the leisure activities as they would like. Housekeeping is provided, and laundry may be provided for a nominal fee.

There is a (privately paid) daily cost associated with a respite stay, but that is different from community to community. Sometimes these costs may be negotiated by someone like the Care Concierge, and sometimes they are fixed.

For more information about The Care Concierge of New England and their variety of services, please contact Paul Jones at 401-488-4935 or email at paul@careconciergeNE.com.

 

Friday Fishing Tips – Jeff Gross

by Jeff Gross, contributing writer

As what appears to be an excellent spring fishing season is winding down a habit was noticed that needs to be addressed when so many people are practicing catch and release. 

The habit of holding fish horizontally by the jaw for a picture is unsafe for the fish. While the photo may look great, it tends to break or injure the fish’s jaw which is the fish’s main feeding and defensive weapon.  A fish doesn’t survive with a broken jaw. 

Best bet for photographs is to hold the fish horizontally and place one hand under the belly and one around the tail.  Also another important point – keep your fingers out of the gills and gill plates. At a derby some years ago a fisherman removed the hook by jamming his fingers into the trout’s gills to immobilize the trout. Killed the trout almost immediately. The derby was catch and release.  Gripping by the gill plates is never recommended unless you plan on cooking the fish. 

Looks like great fishing weather this weekend, here is hoping a few new State records are caught.

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Jeffrey “Jeff” Gross spent 21 years as an Analytical Chemist at the USCG R&D Center in Groton, Connecticut, Woods Hole Laboratories, and Helix Technologies. Changing careers is a “great learning experience for everyone”, Jeff says, and I’m an avid outdoorsman and conservationist, a student of the sciences, and the world. The US holds too many wonders not to take a chance and explore them”.

Jeff is the Model Train and Railroad entrepreneur. Proud Golden Retriever owner. Ultra strong Second Amendment Advocate and Constitutionalist. “Determined seeker of the truth”. 

Jeff is a RIFGPA Legislative and Legal Officer, Freshwater Chairman, NRA Liaison.

His subjects include Outdoors, Second Amendment, Model Railroading, and Whimsical.

He can be reached at: trainsbythe144@aol.com

RI Veterans: Did You Know? – 10 June 21 – John A. Cianci

by John A Cianci, Department Veterans Service Officer, Italian American War Veterans (ITAM)

Question from Janice in Florida: My Dad died at a VA hospital in Florida (he was a Vietnam Veteran disabled from exposure to Agent Orange), however, he joined the military while living in Rhode Island, and want to be buried at the Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery (RIVMC) in Exeter RI: (1) Can he be buried at the RIVMC (2) What am I entitled to as his daughter in assistance in burial?

Answer: Hi Janice, prayers and condolences for your loss.

Step 1 – I would get his discharge papers, should have a DD214(if not, contact a local congressional leader for assistance to obtain one).

Step 2 – Review the DD214, looking for honorable and location where joined, which should be RI. Vet tip, always submit application to RIVMC, rules are constantly changing, let the staff tell you if he is not eligible for burial (ask for it in writing, as I helped one family who originally was denied, but once Italian American war Veterans was contacted, we advised them to re-contact the RIVMC and explain the veteran met the requirements; eligibility detailed on Dd214)

Step 3 – Contact the staff at the RIVMC, (401) 268-3088, and communicate your dad’s wishes; the staff will guide you thru the application.

Step 4 – The VA will pay up to $2000 toward burial expenses if buried in a national cemetery. Where you Dad will be buried at RIVMC in Exeter (a state veterans cemetery, and he died at a VA facility, the VA generally reimburses up to $796. However, the amount could be higher if your dad’s death was related to his service-connected disabilities. Best advice, when applying for reimbursement with VA, attach all expenses, the VA will determine if you are entitled more than the $796

“VA Will Reimburse Over $2000 For Burial, Funeral, and Transportation Expenses for Eligible Veterans“

Did you know spouse, child, family member, executor or administrator of the Veteran’s estate, or even friend of deceased veteran could be reimbursed by the Veterans Administration up to $2000 for burial, funeral and transportation for service-related death. 

Did you know spouse, child, family member, or even friend of deceased veteran a minimum of $300 for funeral and burial and $300 for plot-interment allowance, if not hospitalized, and as much $796 if Veteran was hospitalized by VA at time of death.

Did you know if a Veteran is buried in a private cemetery the VA will provide free a may headstone, marker, or medallion? In addition, eligible veterans are entitled to a burial flag and Presidential Memorial Certificate.

VETTIP: Have the deceased veteran’s DD214 and or discharge papers with you when meeting with the funeral home. If you don’t have, contact a local congressional leader and they will assist expediting obtaining the discharge papers to ensure the Veteran receives his or his final military honors.

Let’s summarize monetary reimbursement for funeral and burial expenses.

• $300 for burial and funeral expenses, and up to $300 for plot-interment if Veteran has a service-connected disability, which could be ZERO percent for hearing
• $796 and up to $300 for plot-interment if veteran died at VA hospital or contracted facility; the Rhode Island Veterans Home is a VA contacted facility
• $2000 or more if veterans’ death was service connected.

From the VA website, clarifying eligibility for reimbursement for funeral, burial, and transportation expenses for a deceased veteran:

The Veteran must not have received a dishonorable discharge, and one of these circumstances must be true. The Veteran died:

• As a result of a service-connected disability (a disability related to service), or
• While getting VA care, either at a VA facility or at a facility contracted by VA, or
• While traveling with proper authorization, and at VA’s expense, either to or from a facility for an examination, or to receive treatment or care, or
• With an original or reopened claim for VA compensation or pension pending at the time of death, if they would’ve been entitled to benefits before the time of death, or
• While receiving a VA pension or compensation, or
• While eligible for a VA pension or compensation at time of death, but instead received full military retirement or disability pay
• Or the Veteran:
• Had been getting a VA pension or compensation when they died, or
• Had chosen to get military retired pay instead of compensation
• Note: We’ll also provide an allowance for the cost of transporting a Veteran’s remains for burial in a national cemetery.

You can’t get burial allowances for certain individuals

• We don’t provide burial allowances if the individual died:
• On active duty, or
• While serving as a member of Congress, or
• While serving a federal prison sentence

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1 How do I obtain proof of service if the Veteran dies, and I need immediate burial services?

Most funeral home will provide you points of contacts for a local congressional office for assistance.  With a congressional inquiry, proof of service is usually obtained in a few days.

*See VETTIP, why I suggest if your intent is to be buried at RIVMC, pre-register.

Q2 How do I know if the deceased veterans have a service-connected disability?

First, as Italian American War Veteran, Veteran Service Officer I always ask the family member who contacts me for assistance, does the Veteran receive a monthly deposited from the VA (my VA disAbility is deposited on or about the 1st of the month, and is described on bank statement as US VA Department, or Veteran still might receive a monthly check from the VA. If the veteran is deceased, and you need to know this information for burial arrangements, contact your local congressional leader who with your authorization, can find this information out the same or next day.

Q3 How do I know if veteran death is service connected?

Vietnam Veterans exposed to Agent Orange, many battle cancer and succumb to the deadly illness as a result of being exposed to Agent Orange. As noted above, contact your local congressional leader seeking a breakdown of any approved or pending claims on record with the VA.

VETTIP If service-connected death and listed on the death certificate, the spouse could be eligible for Dependence and Indemnity compensation (estimated $1400 a month) and or if the VA has a claim pending for the deceased veteran, the surviving spouse, child, or parent can continue to pursue the claim, it could be worth thousands of dollars. One widow was reported as receiving almost $500, 000 upon resubmitting her husband’s claim, which her husband fought since the 1960’s and new evidence came out after his death supporting, he was exposed to asbestos on a Navy Ship.

Q3 How to apply for reimbursement for burial, funeral, and or transportation expenses?

• You can apply online at Vets.gov. OR
• Apply by mail using an Application for Burial Benefits (VA Form 21P-530)

Mail the application and other documents listed above to your nearest VA regional office

     If you have questions, call 800-827-1000. We’re here Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. ET. Our TTY number for people with hearing impairments is 711. Or call your VA regional office.

Q4 What documents do I need to send with my application?

You’ll need to send copies of these documents:

• The Veteran’s military discharge papers (DD214 or other separation documents)
• The Veteran’s death certificate
• Any documents or receipts you have for the cost of transporting the Veteran’s remains
• A statement of account (preferably with the letterhead of the funeral director or cemetery owner) that has this information: 
• The Veteran’s name, and
• The type of service or item purchased, and
• Any credits, and
• The unpaid balance

Q5 Is there a time limit for filing?

You must file a claim for a non-service-connected burial allowance within 2 years after the Veteran’s burial or cremation. If a Veteran’s discharge was changed after death from dishonorable to another status, you must file for an allowance claim within 2 years after the discharge update.

There’s no time limit to file for a service-connected burial, plot, or interment allowance.

Q6 What should I do if I received an other than honorable, bad conduct, or dishonorable discharge?

If you’ve received one of these discharge statuses, you may not be eligible for VA pension benefits. Operation Stand Down, (401) 383-4730, provides free assistance to apply for a discharge upgrade or go to va.gov.

Q7 How do I apply for VA Healthcare?

VA Health Care Enrollment Process

1. Online – Apply online at VA’s website.
2. By Telephone – Call toll-free number at 877-222-VETS (8387)
3. In Person – Complete the “Application for Health Benefits” at your local VA. Find a VA medical center.

All Veterans are encouraged to enroll in the VA Health Care System. 
You can apply online at https://www.vets.gov/health-care/apply/ or call an eligibility and enrollment specialist at 401-273-7100 ext. 12496 during normal business hours.


Or you may print the Application for Health Care Benefitsform and mail it to us at:

VA Providence Healthcare System
Eligibility Office – Patient Services (136)
830 Chalkstone Avenue
Providence, RI  02908

You can also bring the form to the Medical Center. The Eligibility Office is located on the ground floor of the main hospital building near the main entrance.

Whether mailing or bringing your application, please include the following items:

• a copy of both sides of your current insurance card (including Medicare or Medicaid)
• a copy of your DD214, ‘Armed Forces Report of Transfer or Discharge’
• (Purple Heart recipients only) a copy of your award letter if ‘Purple Heart’ is not noted on your DD214

VA encourages all Veterans to apply in order to determine their enrollment eligibility.

VETTIP. In my opinion and experience, your best bet in to go to Providence VA Medical Center, 830 Chalkstone Ave, Providence with your DD214 and a form of identification and a VA representative will assist you in registering.

Q8 How to Apply for a Discharge Upgrade

Answer a series of questions to get customized step-by-step instructions on how to apply for a discharge upgrade or correction. If your application goes through and your discharge is upgraded, you’ll be eligible for the VA benefits you earned during your period of service.

All branches of the military consider you to have a strong case for a discharge upgrade if you can show your discharge was connected to any of these categories:

Mental health conditions, including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Traumatic brain injury (TBI)

Sexual assault or harassment during military service (at VA, we refer to this as military sexual trauma or MST)

Sexual orientation (including under the Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell policy)

Can I get VA benefits without a discharge upgrade?

Even with a less than honorable discharge, you may be able to access some VA benefits through the Character of Discharge review process. When you apply for VA benefits, we’ll review your record to determine if your service was “honorable for VA purposes.” This review can take up to a year. Please provide us with documents supporting your case, similar to the evidence you’d send with an application to upgrade your discharge.

You may want to consider finding someone to advocate on your behalf, depending on the complexity of your case. A lawyer or Veterans Service Organization (VSO) can collect and submit supporting documents for you. 

Note: You can ask for a VA Character of Discharge review while at the same time applying for a discharge upgrade from the Department of Defense (DoD) or the Coast Guard.

If you need mental health services related to PTSD or other mental health problems linked to your service (including conditions related to an experience of military sexual trauma), you may qualify for VA health benefits right away, even without a VA Character of Discharge review or a discharge upgrade.

EVENTS/MEETINGS

Saturday, June 12th, 9AM Refreshments, 10AM Speaker, “Rhode Island National Guard Retirees’ Association Quarterly Meeting”, Schofield Armory, 705 New London Avenue, Cranston.  Point of contact is Bob Urquhart at boburquhart@cox.net.  Guest speaker to be determined.

Saturday, June 12th, time currently unknown, “Brian’s Ride 2021”, 15th Anniversary Memorial Ride.  For more information and/or questions, call 401.837.7331, or email brianstgermainfoundation@yahoo.com.  

REUNIONS

Friday, August 6th, 11AM, “Rhode Island National Guard Summer Reunion”, Quonset Officers’ Club, 200 Lieutenant James Brown Road, North Kingstown.  Point of contact is Bob Antonelli at 401.996.3764, or via email at bob02909@cox.net.  Cut-off date is Tuesday, August 3rd.          

September 15-20, 2021, USMC Tankers Association Facility: Crown Plaza Providence-Warwick, 801 Greenwich Ave., Warwick RI 02886. Point of Contact Name: John Wear. Point of Contact Telephone: 719-495-5998. Point of Contact Email: johnwear2@verizon.net . Comments: The USMC Vietnam Tankers Association will be holding our 12th biennial reunion. Anyone who served with any of the Marine tank battalions or Onto units in Vietnam . . . in any capacity is welcome!!!

If you have an event, meeting, other pertinent veteran information, or email questions or help needed, contact the Italian American War Veteran Service Officer, John A Cianci, itamrirvets@gmail.com  

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John A. Cianci is a Veteran Service Officer. Retired, U.S. Army MSgt., Persian Gulf War and Iraq War combat theater.

Cianci, a combat disabled Veteran, served in Desert Shield/Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom. His awards include Bronze Star, Combat Action Badge, Good Conduct, and others.

Cianci belongs to numerous veterans organizations – Italian American War Veterans, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign War, United Veterans Council of Rhode Island, and many more organizations. He is an active volunteer assisting veterans to navigate federal and state benefits they have earned. He is Department of Rhode Island Department Commander Italian American War Veterans and Veteran Service Officer.

He is a graduate of Roger Williams University (BS Finance), UCONN business school* (Entrepreneur Bootcamp For Veterans), Solar Energy International Residential, Commercial and Battery Based Photovoltaic Systems certificate programs, numerous certificates from the Department of Defense renewable energy programs, including graduate of the Solar Ready Vets Program.

Vaccinating children, as young as 6 months, may be focus by the fall

Moderna’s CEO said at a professional conference yesterday that he predicted that its COVID-19 vaccine will likely be available for children as young as five by the early fall.

“I think it’s going to be early fall, just because we have to go down in age very slowly and carefully,” the Cambridge-based company’s CEO Stéphane Bancel said Monday at an event hosted on the social media platform Clubhouse.

Moderna said it is now testing its vaccine on children as young as six months. Moderna started a study of its vaccine in children under 12 years in March.

Bancel noted the process will take time as it determines the appropriate dosages for small children.

“We anticipate data available in the September/October time frame,” he said.

Children and COVID-19

In a JAMA publication, titled, “Underlying Medical Conditions Associated With Severe COVID-19 Illness Among Children”, the data showed…

Of the 43,465 COVID-19 patients ages 18 years and younger who visited an emergency department or were hospitalized showed those with underlying health conditions were more likely to experience severe illness or hospitalization, with about 28.7% of all those patients having underlying health conditions.

Among the 4,302 who were hospitalized, more than 2,700, 62.9%, had underlying health conditions, researchers noted.

Patients with Type 1 diabetes and obesity were the most likely to be hospitalized, while those who were born prematurely were more likely to experience severe illness from COVID-19, the data showed.

The report suggested that this information be considered as vaccination priorities and regulations are created.

It is important to remember that for the overwhelming majority of children, Covid-19 is a mild illness.

American Academy of Pediatrics – RI highest in US for Cumulative COVID-19 Cases per 100,000 Children:

This chart shows Rhode Island placed at the top of all states for cumulative cases per 100,000 in children (ages below18) – with nearly 10,000 cases. 15.5% of all cases in RI were in children, a total of approximately 142,137 cases. 238 children, or 2.9% of all hospitalizations in RI were children. No child fatalities were reported. This data is through June 3, 2021. You can access the full report, here:

https://downloads.aap.org/AAP/PDF/AAP%20and%20CHA%20-%20Children%20and%20COVID-19%20State%20Data%20Report%206.3.21%20FINAL.pdf

 

Research shows the vaccines are remarkably effective and safe. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) ?urges? children and adults to get the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as it is available to them. This is especially important with a rise in cases caused by variant strains of the virus, which seem to be more contagious.?

Middle-school, high-school, and college students who get both doses of the vaccine now authorized for age 12 and up (Pfizer) can be fully immunized by the 2021-22 school? year. The timing for when the vaccine will be available for younger students ?depends on the results of the clinical trials. But based on the current pace of research, it may be possible to have a vaccine for children in grade school and preschool later this year.

Once a vaccine is approved, health authorities, including the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the AAP, will recommend when and how children should get it. However, each state’s government decides which vaccines are required for school entry.

In the meantime, the AAP says to make sure children are caught up on their vaccinations against measles, influenza, whooping cough, and any others that your pediatrician recommends.

Pfizer News

Pfizer Inc said on Tuesday it will begin testing its COVID-19 vaccine in a larger group of children under age 12 after selecting a lower dose of the shot in an earlier stage of the trial. The study will enroll up to 4,500 children at more than 90 clinical sites in the United States, Finland, Poland and Spain, the company said.

Reuters reported that “Based on safety, tolerability and the immune response generated by 144 children in a phase I study of the two-dose shot, Pfizer said it will test a dose of 10 micrograms in children between 5 and 11 years of age, and 3 micrograms for the age group of 6 months to 5.

A Pfizer spokesperson said the company expects data from 5- to 11-year-olds in September and would likely ask regulators for emergency use authorization later that month. Data for children 2 to 5 years old could arrive soon after that, he said.

The testing is not so much to determine safety or effectiveness as it is to determine dosage. At this point, Pfizer is looking at 10 micrograms of vaccine for ages 5-11, which is one-third the potency the dose given to those 12 and over. Children 5 and under will receive 3 microgram shots.

Pfizer researcher Dr. Bill Gruber called the company’s approach to testing with children “deliberate and careful.”

Back to School

Availability of vaccines for children under 12 and as young as 6 months may change the conversation in the fall and winter of 2021 to be an all-out effort to vaccinate first children at higher risk, then all children. Returning to fully open schools will be a major priority and having a vaccinated school population will be integral to the comfort and safety of doing so.

Colleges are already moving to mandatory vaccinations – with students unable or unwilling to be vaccinated moved to virtual learning. As fall approaches vaccination clinics and promotion for graduating high school seniors is intensifying so they will be ready for college either in-state in RI or out of state.

Your Coronavirus Update – Today, June 4, 2021

Photo: Gov. McKee’s Twitter feed – at Dunkin’ vaccination promotion Iced Coffee Day

RHODE ISLAND & VICINITY

82 people were vaccinated at the Dunkin’ promotion at the select stores in RI

RI House of Representatives is back in session, inside the State House.

The RI Senate is still off-site.

New Bedford City Hall will open June 13th

There are efforts to keep the alcohol-to-go in place for curbside pickup.

RI agrees with national recommendations of no masks outside for vaccinated and non-vaccinated. Non-vaccinated are encouraged in large groups to wear masks. Outdoor summer camps, not necessary. Indoors for unvaccinated, necessary.

The Harvest Kitchen in Pawtucket has reopened.

RISD reopens June 13th with new exhibits – https://risdmuseum.org/hours-admission

Market Basket’s 5 MA stores will have vaccination clinics – no word yet on RI stores.

In an effort to reach anyone who has not yet received the COVID-19 vaccine, the State, the Town of Smithfield and Fidelity Investments are hosting Rhode Island’s first-ever public drive-through pilot vaccination clinic on Saturday, June 5, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Fidelity Investments parking garage located at 100 Salem Street in Smithfield. This is a great opportunity for those who have been concerned about having to walk or stand at a vaccination event.   This is the first time we have such an event open to the public.  People can register on www.vaccinateri.org – Fidelity Investment Drive Thru POD.  While registration is preferred, drive ups can also be accommodated.

The Senate approved a bill that would require insurance companies to cover COVID-19 testing, treatment and vaccines with no copay.

Massachusetts is joining a growing list of states offering incentives to vaccine holdouts and will offer people a $25 Market Basket gift card

Pell Bridge, Newport, traffic is only 11% less than May of 2019 and is 64% higher than May of 2020

Rhode Island has had the fourth-most deaths per capita among the 50 states since the beginning of the pandemic.

RISCA will be opening Phase 3 of the Artist Relief Fund for applications on June 1, 2021. For this third, and likely final, phase of the Artist Relief Fund, we expect to award approximately 250 grants of $800 to arts and culture workers in the state of Rhode Island. All applications will be screened for eligibility, and then all eligible applications will be selected for funding via a lottery system. We anticipate significantly more applications than we have funds available. The application deadline for the Third Phase of the Artist Relief Fund is Monday, June 14 at 8pm.

90% of veterans have been fully vaccinated in RI says Kasin Yarn, Director of RI Dept. of Veteran Affairs

East Providence: The city has planted a living memorial to the almost 200 residents who have died after contracting the coronavirus. A tree and accompanying plaque were dedicated Monday outside city hall,

Connecticut announced plans for a “back-to-work” incentive program offering $1,000 for the first 10,000 residents to sign up.

Venus de Milo has decided to delay the planned Memorial Day weekend reopening of the venue’s restaurant. Citing unfruitful attempts to recruit staff, the owner says they’re focusing on expanded take-out options in the coming weeks, and plans are still in place to revive the banquet business.

The Vermont Education Agency will strongly recommend that schools continue to follow the agency’s COVID-19 prevention measures for the rest of the school year.

The Boston Bruins played in front of a crowd capacity of 17,000.

The first female mayor of Boston has called back to in-office work the staff of city hall, sending families into panic over daycare. In MA, the 1,066 at home day cares have been reduced to 934; and the day care centers have decreased from 687 to 550. For new mothers (during the pandemic), child care arrangements are not in place. Predictions are for several women to leave their employment.

Stop & Shop is looking to hire nearly 1K employees to work in its stores this summer on the Cape and Islands, with housing included.

Lady Gaga’s August concert in Boston has been rescheduled by her to 2022.

Rhode Island’s June Pride parade has been postponed, for the second year.

Governor’s Press Conference

Press conferences on COVID every other week at RI State House.

93% of 65+ Rhode Islanders vaccinated – most other age groups are over 50%.

Working on vaccinating people where they are and closing down mass vaccination sites.

Middletown & Dunk close on 6/26. Sockanosset will remain open through fall and be maintained as field hospital.

Working on 12+ vaccinations. Goal is all students in classrooms in fall. Going to remove barriers to learning – no longer required to offer virtual learning.

82 people vaccinated at the Dunk on Coffee Day. RI is available to vaccinate groups of people – get in touch with state.

1st Drive-thru being held this Saturday at Fidelity in Smithfield – sign up or just drive-up – no walk-ups.

New masking guidance – vaccinated/non-vaccinated not required to wear masks outdoors. Not required outdoors at camps this summer. Unvaccinated, indoors, masks required. Camp organizations can be more restrictive if they want. Masks advisable in high density outdoor events.

Testing – symptoms? Please get tested at accessible sites.

2030 Plan – Discussion on health – 6pm on Facebook Live.

Stay positive – test negative – vaccinate the Ocean State.

Dr. Scott:

Speaking to those not vaccinated – or have friends who are not. Now is the time – move forward time is now. Variants are present and out there.

0.8% positivity now – let’s keep our numbers low. New hospital admissions have been in single digits every day.

RI’s transmission level now is “moderate”. We need to continue to be aware of newer versions. Spread more easily.

College students returning in the fall – you should get your first dose by July 4th.

Masks are required in schools, childcare, public transportation, healthcare, homeless shelters, prisons, etc.

Tom McCarthy:

Vaccinations: Hope St. Farmer’s Market – Scarborough Beach, other events and locations.

Expanding vaccination program at home for those 50+.

Primary care providers can now offer vaccinations. Onboarded 25 pediatricians and doctors.

RI is one of 12 states that have at least 1 dose in 70% of the population.

Q&A:

Q:  Days of 90 degree heat – coming up – any update for that in schools for masking policy?

A:  We’re current with the current science. Indoors is highest risk areas – not planning on making any changes for the rest of the school year.

Q:  Are you prepared for children to deal with 90 day heat in schools without a/c?

A:  We’ve proven we are resilient. 100% focused on full recovery, but we are not there yet.

Q:  Specific clinics for 12+ kids?

A:  Not requirement for going back to schools at this time. Clinics at schools have been successful – and area for children at mass vaccination sites.

Q:  When vaccine is approved for under 12, how will that be handled?

A:  We are preparing for that, considering how to administer. Cranston would be easiest to ramp up.

Q:  Convention Center back in center when? Dunk?

A:  Convention Center in August – Dunk in the fall.

NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL

U.S. first-time jobless claims fall below 400,000 for first time in pandemic era

The US is vaccinatingvforeign workers aboard ships that have been circling the Earth’s seas, keeping products supplied to countries.

Facebook has announced that it will no longer remove posts that suggest the COVID-19 virus came from a Chinese lab.

Amazon’s Prime Day has moved up to June 21 & 22 to help people restock on important items

CDC is working on new Covid guidance for summer camps now that teens can get vaccine, director says

Russian regions begin vaccinating animals against COVID-19 – RIA

Azores, as they are experiencing a severe shortage.

Full vaccinated people can donate blood plasma at blood drives

The new White House science adviser hopes that for the next pandemic, a vaccine will be ready in 100 days

Apple says they will ask their staff to return to their office 3 days a week – they may also work from home 2 weeks of the year.

39% of workers would rather quit than return to offices in the fall, Bloomberg survey

In New Jersey, mask mandates may be waived at high schools sooner than elementary and middle schools in the fall because teens have a head start over younger kids on getting vaccinated,

The Smithsonian will reopen 10 of its museums on a staggered schedule throughout the summer

A majority of Major League Baseball’s 30 teams have been able to relax coronavirus protocols after two additional clubs qualified and raised the total to 16 franchises reaching 85% vaccinations for players and other onfield personnel. Relaxed protocols include dropping the requirements for facemasks in dugouts and bullpens, and loosening restrictions on mobility during road trips.

The NY Knicks said they will only sell tickets to vaccinated people.

Florida concert promoter – $18/vaccinated people – $1000/non-vaccinated people.

California will have sweepstakes for fully vaccinated people – up to $15 in giveaways – $50 gift card for most.

Uruguay is working on the world’s first large-scale memorial to the global toll of COVID-19 with a $1.5 million project on the shores of Montevideo.

The Indianapolis 500 welcomed a sold-out crowd of 135,000 spectators on Sunday

A sharp rise in coronavirus cases from new variants in parts of Southeast Asia has prompted new restrictions, factory closures and attempts to rapidly scale up vaccination programmes across the region

COVID-19 cases in Malaysia has soared past India’s on a per capita basis. Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and East Timor have all doubled their cases in the past month. Vietnam will suspend incoming international flights to its capital Hanoi

Singapore should be able to relax recently imposed restrictions on social gatherings after two weeks if the local COVID-19 situation continues to improve

Hong Kong will offer civil servants who get vaccinated against COVID-19 a day off for each dose

Moderna Inc (MRNA.O) said on Tuesday it has started an application for full U.S. approval of its COVID-19 vaccine, which is currently only authorized for emergency use in the country.?

The World Health Organization has announced a new naming system based on the Greek alphabet for key COVID-19 variants. While these new names will not replace existing scientific names, the new system is aimed to make the names easier to say and remember, as well as prevent stigma associated with calling variants by a location name. For instance: Alpha – first identified in UK Beta – first identified in South Africa Gamma – first identified in Brazil Delta – first identified in India

West Virginia to give away guns as Covid-19 vaccine incentive

The EU is making vaccination passports available to ease travel – they are Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Greece, Croatia, and Poland.

Australia is keeping its anti-travel ban in place.

Anheuser-Busch announced that it would “buy Americans 21+ a round of beer” once Pres. Biden’s 70% vaccination goal is met.

Several studies have shown an association between low vitamin D levels and increased risk for COVID-19, though not a direct link. MORE, HERE: https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2021/vitamin-d-covid.html?cmp=EMC-DSO-NLC-HLTH—MCTRL-060221-F1-5523943&ET_CID=5523943&ET_RID=2857375&encparam=YZKieQf99ROa%20VCZQNlOkw==

The US will share 80 million vaccine doses with other countries by the end of June.

RI Veterans: Did You Know? – 3 June 21 – John A. Cianci

by John A. Cianci, Department Veterans Service Officer, Italian American War Veterans (ITAM), contributing writer on Veterans issues

“Free Burial for Eligible Veterans at Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery”

State of Rhode Island Burial Benefits

Did you know eligible veterans, spouses, and dependents children may be buried at the Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery (RIVMC) in Exeter, RI?  Burial for eligible veterans is provided at NO COST.

Burial for spouses and dependents incur fees; according to spokesperson for State of Rhode Island Office of Veterans Services, Meghan Connelly, costs are as follows for spouses and dependents:

• $210 for a casket liner
• $110 for an in-ground cremation liner

Did you know a veteran’s spouse or dependent could be buried before the eligible Veteran’s death at the RIVMC in Exeter, RI?

Did you know a veteran can submit a pre-application to the RIVMC, to include listing spouse and eligible dependent(s) online, mail, or by fax?

Eligibility for burial at RIVMC is as follows:

• Honorable service
• RI resident for 2 consecutive years prior to death, OR
• Joined the service from RI (this information would be on the veterans DD214), OR
• Veterans with active duty service for which they received a campaign or expeditionary medal (ex., Desert Storm Veterans), OR
• Veterans with 2+ consecutive years of active duty during peacetime, OR
• Veterans with 20+years of National Guard or Reserve service

Documents for proof of service consist of a DD214, NGB-22, or the equivalent.

Proof of residency consists of an RI driver’s license, RI voter registration, or IRS tax forms.

VETTIP: Suggest you preregister yourself, to include adding your spouse or dependent on the application online, at; http://www,vets.ri.gov.

The phone number for the RIVMC Administration Office is (401)-268-3088.

More information on RI Veterans Memorial Cemetery retrieved from the cemetery’s website:

RI Veterans Memorial Cemetery is a dignified and solemn military cemetery on 280 acres in Exeter, RI. The grounds of the cemetery are beautifully maintained and include 31 monuments dedicated to veterans of specific wars and conflicts. The Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery offers in-ground casket, in-ground cremation and above-ground columbarium cremation sites. Committal services for veterans and eligible spouses/dependents are 15 minutes in length to include military honors. Gravesite locations are assigned by the Administration Office at the time of death.

From my own experience assisting families who seek to bury their loved one at the RIVMC, the staff at the cemetery will assist and navigate you thru the process. Moreover, most funeral homes are seasoned and experienced in expediting the process for a deceased veterans’ family. The phone number for the RIVMC Administration Office is (401) 268-3088.

Next week’s column will cover federal burial benefits for eligible veterans, to include up to thousands of dollars of reimbursement for burial expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1 How do I obtain proof of service if the Veteran dies, and I need immediate burial services?

Most funeral homes will provide you points of contacts for a local congressional office for assistance. With a congressional inquiry, proof of service is usually obtained in a few days.

*See VETTIP, why I suggest if your intent is to be buried at RIVMC, pre-register.

Q2 How do I pre-register?

Step 1. Acquire required documents (DD214, proof of residency).

Step 2.

         Option 1 Apply online, http://www,vets.ri.gov

         Option 2 Fax the application and supporting documents to (401) 295-8797

         Option 3 Mail application and supporting documents to:

                       R.I Veterans Memorial Cemetery Application

                       301 South County Trail

                       Exeter, Rhode Island 02822-9712

          Option 4 Take a ride out and visit the RIVMC. Stop in at normal business hours with your supporting documents and fill out the application.

Q3 What should I do if I received an other than honorable, bad conduct, or dishonorable discharge?

If you’ve received one of these discharge statuses, you may not be eligible for VA pension benefits. Operation Stand Down, (401) 383-4730, provides free assistance to apply for a discharge upgrade or go to va.gov.

Q4 How do I apply for VA Healthcare?

VA Health Care Enrollment Process

1. Online – Apply online at VA’s website.
2. By Telephone – Call toll-free number at 877-222-VETS (8387)
3. In Person – Complete the “Application for Health Benefits” at your local VA. Find a VA Medical Center.

All Veterans are encouraged to enroll in the VA Health Care System. 
You can apply online at https://www.vets.gov/health-care/apply/ or call an eligibility and enrollment specialist at 401-273-7100 ext. 12496 during normal business hours.

 

Or you may print the Application for Health Care Benefits form and mail it to:

VA Providence Healthcare System
Eligibility Office – Patient Services (136)
830 Chalkstone Avenue
Providence, RI  02908

You can also bring the form to the Medical Center. The Eligibility Office is located on the ground floor of the main hospital building near the main entrance.

Whether mailing or bringing your application, please include the following items:

• a copy of both sides of your current insurance card (including Medicare or Medicaid)
• a copy of your DD214, ‘Armed Forces Report of Transfer or Discharge’
• (Purple Heart recipients only) a copy of your award letter if ‘Purple Heart’ is not noted on your DD214

VA encourages all Veterans to apply in order to determine their enrollment eligibility.

VETTIP. In my opinion and experience, your best bet is to go to the Providence VA Medical Center, 830 Chalkstone Ave, Providence with your DD214 and a form of identification and a VA representative will assist you in registering.

Q5 How to Apply for a Discharge Upgrade

Answer a series of questions to get customized step-by-step instructions on how to apply for a discharge upgrade or correction. If your application goes through and your discharge is upgraded, you’ll be eligible for the VA Benefits you earned during your period of service.

All branches of the military consider you to have a strong case for a discharge upgrade if you can show your discharge was connected to any of these categories:

Mental health conditions, including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Traumatic brain injury (TBI)

Sexual assault or harassment during military service (at VA, we refer to this as military sexual trauma or MST)

Sexual orientation (including under the Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell policy)

Can I get VA benefits without a discharge upgrade?

Even with a less than honorable discharge, you may be able to access some VA benefits through the Character of Discharge review process. When you apply for VA benefits, they’ll review your record to determine if your service was “honorable for VA purposes.” This review can take up to a year. Please provide documents supporting your case, similar to the evidence you’d send with an application to upgrade your discharge.

You may want to consider finding someone to advocate on your behalf, depending on the complexity of your case. A lawyer or Veterans Service Organization (VSO) can collect and submit supporting documents for you. 

Note: You can ask for a VA Character of Discharge review while at the same time applying for a discharge upgrade from the Department of Defense (DoD) or the Coast Guard.

If you need mental health services related to PTSD or other mental health problems linked to your service (including conditions related to an experience of military sexual trauma), you may qualify for VA health benefits right away, even without a VA Character of Discharge review or a discharge upgrade.

EVENTS/MEETINGS

Saturday, June 5, 2021, 830-1000am FREE BREAKFAST

Building Bridges will hold its monthly free breakfast for Veterans this Saturday in the Parish Hall at Christ Church, Main Street, Swansea Village. Co-sponsored by Vet to Vet/Boston and Christ Church. Non-religious outreach to veterans from the community — a bridge, if you will, connecting the two. All Veterans welcome. No reservation needed. – “Yours in comradeship, Dave McCarthy, Vet to Vet/Boston, Building Bridges Area Coordinator. NOTE: This breakfast is held FIRST Saturday of every month; I attended the one last month and had an awesome breakfast and met up with some Veterans I had not seen for years.

Monday, June 7, 2021, 900-1100am Refreshments, Federal Hill Veterans Coffee House, at ROMA, Atwells Ave, Providence. ponsored by the Italian American War Veterans. Always the first Monday of the month, lots of Italian pasties and camaraderie.

Tuesday, June 8, 2021, 900-100 Refreshments, Northern Rhode Island Veteran Coffee House, sponsored by American Legion Berard-Desjariais Post #88 and the Italian American War Veterans of Rhode Island, 111 Chapel Street Harrisville, RI 02830. Coffee and pastries for the coffee hour, followed by hamburgers and hotdogs for lunch—-ALL FREE.

Unemployed veterans, seeking certificates and/or 12-month college programs, a must to attend, Sign up for FREE programs available for Veterans with COVID-19 monies. AND GET HOUSING ALLOWANCE WHILE ATTENDING THE TRAINING.

Saturday, June 12th, 9AM Refreshments, 10AM Speaker, “Rhode Island National Guard Retirees’ Association Quarterly Meeting”, Schofield Armory, 705 New London Avenue, Cranston.  Point of contact is Bob Urquhart at boburquhart@cox.net.  Guest speaker to be determined.

Saturday, June 12th, time currently unknown, “Brian’s Ride 2021”, 15th Anniversary Memorial Ride. For more information and/or questions, call 401.837.7331, or email brianstgermainfoundation@yahoo.com.  

REUNIONS

Friday, August 6th, 11AM, “Rhode Island National Guard Summer Reunion”, Quonset Officers’ Club, 200 Lieutenant James Brown Road, North Kingstown.  Point of contact is Bob Antonelli at 401.996.3764, or via email at bob02909@cox.net. Cut-off date is Tuesday, August 3rd.   

September 15-20, 2021, USMC Tankers Association Facility: Crown Plaza Providence-Warwick, 801 Greenwich Ave., Warwick RI 02886. Point of Contact Name: John Wear. Point of Contact Telephone: 719-495-5998. Point of Contact Email: johnwear2@verizon.net . Comments: The USMC Vietnam Tankers Association will be holding our 12th biennial reunion. Anyone who served with any of the Marine tank battalions or Ontos units in Vietnam . . . in any capacity is welcome!!!    

If you have an event, meeting, other pertinent veteran information, or email questions or help needed, contact the Italian American War Veteran Service Officer, John A Cianci, itamrirvets@gmail.com.

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John A. Cianci is a Veteran Service Officer. Retired, U.S. Army MSgt., Persian Gulf War and Iraq War combat theater.

Cianci, a combat disabled Veteran, served in Desert Shield/Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom. His awards include Bronze Star, Combat Action Badge, Good Conduct, and others.

Cianci belongs to numerous veterans organizations – Italian American War Veterans, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign War, United Veterans Council of Rhode Island, and many more organizations. He is an active volunteer assisting veterans to navigate federal and state benefits they have earned. He is Department of Rhode Island Department Commander Italian American War Veterans and Veteran Service Officer.

He is a graduate of Roger Williams University (BS Finance), UCONN business school* (Entrepreneur Bootcamp For Veterans), Solar Energy International Residential, Commercial and Battery Based Photovoltaic Systems certificate programs, numerous certificates from the Department of Defense renewable energy programs, including graduate of the Solar Ready Vets Program.

RI Day of Portugal – events starting June 6th

The 44th Celebration of the Rhode Island Day of Portugal will be held this year, having been postponed from 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The “Day of Portugal” is a holiday celebrated every year in June on every corner of the Portuguese-speaking world. Officially known as “Dia de Portugal, de Camões e das Comunidades Portuguesas” (Day of Portugal, Camões and the Portuguese Communities), June 10th commemorates the death of the revered Portuguese poet, Luís Vaz de Camões in 1580. Camões is best known for his epic poem, Os Lusíadas, which is a tribute to the golden age of Portugal’s maritime exploration and discoveries.

The Portuguese in Rhode Island

In Rhode Island, 13 cities/towns are in the top 100 for percentage of Portuguese population in the US. The top 5 cities are East Providence (40.86% – 2nd in US) – Bristol (31.4% – 9th) – Tiverton (26.97% – 16th) – Warren (24.74% – 20) – Riverside (16.50% – 33) – Rumford – 15.55% – 36th) – Little Compton (12.38% – 45th) (http://zipatlas.com/us/city-comparison/percentage-portuguese-population.htm).

Portuguese maintains status on the state’s MBE – Minority Business Enterprise – list.

Portuguese immigrants make up only four-tenths of one percent (0.4 percent) of the entire U.S. population. But in Rhode Island, Portuguese immigrants make up 9.7 percent of the population. As a result, that’s the densest concentration of Portuguese in the country. Massachusetts is the second densest in the US.

RI Day of Portugal events in RI:

Events are being held in Rhode Island on several June dates.

Beginning on June 6th in Newport, several events will be held, with another major event on June 13th in Providence.

The RI Day of Portugal – Opening Ceremony – June 6th at 1pm at the Portuguese Discovery Monument in Newport

June 13th in Providence.  

 

For those who would like to go to Newport together, free Buses are available; but seats must be reserved. Buses leave from East Providence, at 11am.

In addition to the flag raisings, the RI Day of Portugal Heritage Festival will be held at Waterplace Park in downtown Providence from 1 to 9pm on Sunday, June 13th.

Traditional food, music, dance, a Waterfire Torch Procession, and a laser show will be held.

 

Sunday, June 13th – RI Day of Portugal Heritage Festival

 

June 29th – The RI Day of Portugal Wine Dinner

 

The Passion is back in 2021. RI Day of Portugal wine dinner is June 29, 2021. Special surprise… more details to come.Limited seating, Make your reservations today! The Capital Grille, 401-521-5600

For more information on RI Day of Portugal:

 

Ana Isabel dos Reis-Couto
President
Dia de Portugal em RI  |  RI Day of Portugal
401.225.2591

https://www.ridayofportugal.org/

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