Veterans Report - Week of October 21, 2013

[boardman]

Veterans Report - Week of October 21, 2013

Veterans and the New Health Care Law
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) sent out a letter a few weeks ago to veterans explaining their options under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The new law will not change VA benefits. If a veteran is enrolled in VA healthcare, that coverage meets the standards for the ACA's insurance requirement. Most uninsured veterans are eligible for VA health care. However, not everyone who has served in uniform qualifies for VA health care such as Reserve or National Guard vets who served on active duty for training purposes only. Veterans who are not eligible for VA, and their families, could go to the Health Insurance Exchange. Another option, gaining Medicaid coverage, is limited in states that are not expanding the program. Here are some ways to enroll in VA care or determine your eligibility: (1) visit (http://www.va.gov/healthbenefits/enroll) www.va.gov/healthbenefits/enroll; (2) call 1-877-222-VETS (8387); and (3) visit your local VA health care facility. For more information, visit VA, the Affordable Care Act and You webpage at (http://www.va.gov/health/aca/) www.va.gov/health/aca/.
For more updates on VA benefits programs, visit the (http://militaryadvantage.military.com) Military Advantage blog.


FDA Warns Against Supplement
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is advising consumers to stop using OxyElite Pro, a dietary supplement, because of suspected links to acute hepatitis. The FDA is investigating reports of acute non-viral hepatitis in Hawaii where 29 cases are linked to a dietary supplement. The FDA urges consumers to stop using the product while the investigation continues. The product is sold nationwide in retail stores and on the Internet. Eleven of the 29 patients have been hospitalized with acute hepatitis, two have received liver transplants and one person has died. The CDC is also investigating other cases of liver injury nation-wide that could be related. For more information about the FDA warning, visit the (http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/Safe ... 370857.htm) FDA website.
For more news, visit the (http://www.military.com/daily-news) Military.com News Center.


I Am Unemployed. Now What?
VA's Philadelphia Pension Management Center Veterans still have an edge over civilians when it comes to employment. Find out what you can do to land a well-paying job on VA's (http://www.blogs.va.gov/VAntage/10148/i ... -now-what/) VAntage Point Blog.
For more veteran job news, tips, and job postings, visit the (http://www.military.com/veteran-jobs) Military.com Veteran Jobs Center.


Redskins Set Up Scholarship Fund
The Washington Redskins and (http://www.norfolknavyflagship.com/spor ... 963f4.html) Kaplan University have joined forces to create the Kaplan University -- Washington Redskins Military Family Scholarship Fund. The fund will award one full and up to 30 partial scholarships, which cover 54 to 59 percent of (http://www.norfolknavyflagship.com/spor ... 963f4.html) tuition costs for spouses and dependents of active duty, National Guard and reserve members. Scholarship recipients can choose from any of Kaplan University's undergraduate (http://www.norfolknavyflagship.com/spor ... 963f4.html) online degree programs or elect to attend Kaplan University's Hagerstown or Rockville, Md. locations. Applicants must be the non-enlisted spouse or dependent of a U.S. servicemember, including members of the National Guard and reserve. Family of deceased servicemembers who served after Sept. 11, 2001 are also eligible. The deadline for application is Oct. 26. To apply, visit (https://www.scholarshipamerica.org/kuwrs/) this page.
For more on military education programs, visit the (http://www.military.com/education) Military.com Education Center.


Everything You Need to Prepare for Deployment
Deploying Soon? Check out our deployment center to grab a financial checklist, learn about benefits and (http://www.military.com/deployment?ESRC=mrvr.nl) more.


New Job Program in Illinois
Federal officials in Illinois looking to engage younger veterans and quickly return them to civilian employment chose to pay for an innovative social media program by the Illinois Department of Employment Security. The pilot program could become a best-practices model to be used nationwide. Dubbed Army UCX, the program emphasizes social media channels to connect veterans with IDES employment services and the state's help-wanted job board, Illinoisjoblink.com. IDES is charged with delivering re-employment services to veterans and helped 17,000 Veterans find meaningful employment last year. Veterans can access personalized UCX service through Illinoisjoblink.com. The state's hiring board features more than 120,000 help-wanted ads. Job seekers can build multiple resumes to emphasize different skills and experiences. Business owners can use keyword matching technology to search resumes and find the best candidate. (https://illinoisjoblink.illinois.gov/ada/) Illinoisjoblink.com is free at the website and at (877) 342-7533.
For more veteran job news, tips, and job postings, visit the (http://www.military.com/veteran-jobs) Military.com Veteran Jobs Center.


Certifications, Licenses Streamlined in Connecticut
Connecticut Governor Dannel P. Malloy has signed an executive order that will streamline the process for veterans of the United States military when seeking to obtain occupational certifications and licenses, and simplifies the process for awarding college credit to veterans for military education. Under Governor Malloy's Executive Order No. 36, all state departments, boards, and commissions will review and revise their procedures when issuing occupational certifications and licenses to take into account relevant military education, skills and training when determining equivalency. For additional information on services available to veterans and their families, visit (http://www.veterans.ct.gov/veterans/site/default.asp) veterans.ct.gov.
For more updates on military benefits, visit the (http://militaryadvantage.military.com) Military Advantage blog.


University Giving Scholarships to Washington Vets
In response to Governor Inslee's Executive Order 13-01 and its commitment to serving the U.S. Military, City University of Seattle is giving $100,000 in scholarships to U.S. veterans who select Washington State as their home. In addition, CityU is committing a number of its key resources to aiding individuals who have served their state and nation. To be considered for this scholarship, transitioning veterans must submit a transcript; proof of Washington State residency; a Certificate of Eligibility; an essay; and a personal statement. For more details, see this (http://prn.to/16dnhEZ) press release.
For more military transition guides and tips, visit the (http://www.military.com/military-transition) Military.com Transition Center.


Re-Employment Protections
The Federal Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) protects individuals in the armed forces who leave their employment to serve in the military and return with an honorable discharge. The veteran must (http://blogs.lawyers.com/2013/09/vetera ... nt-rights/) apply for reinstatement within 180 days following the end of service. USERRA states that qualified individuals must be restored to the job and benefits level they would have achieved had they not left their employment for military service. If that is not possible, the servicemember must be provided with a comparable job. In general, employers must hold a job for five years. Plus, returning servicemembers cannot be fired without cause for a period of six months to a year (depending on their length of service) after they return to a job they held previously. For this period of time, they are exempt from "at will" employment standards. If the returning veteran is disabled, the employer must provide reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act. For more information, read the (http://www.dol.gov/vets/regs/fedreg/fin ... 023961.htm) USERRA and visit the (http://www.esgr.mil/USERRA/What-is-USERRA.aspx) Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve website. You can also visit (http://www.military.com/benefits/milita ... ers/userra) Military.com's USERRA overview.


Depression is Treatable
If you are concerned about yourself or a loved one, visit Military Pathways at (http://www.militarymentalhealth.org/) www.militarymentalhealth.org/ to take a free, anonymous, online self-assessment for common mental health conditions such as depression, posttraumatic stress disorder or generalized anxiety disorder. These conditions are treatable, and a self-assessment is not only easy but can be the first step you take toward getting the help you need. For more information, visit the (http://dcoe.mil/blog/13-10-10/Depressio ... Today.aspx) Defense Centers of Excellence Blog.
For more on military benefits, visit the (http://www.military.com/benefits) Military.com Benefits Center.


Search & Join over 40,000 Units on Military.com
Connect with your past or present Military Unit on Military.com. Post Messages, find old friends, see Unit History & Photos and more. (http://www.military.com/HomePage/UnitPa ... rvr1021.nl) Search over 40,000 Units.


Parker Hannifin Committed to Hiring Veterans
Start your civilian career with Parker Hannifin. As a global diversified technology and industrial leader they can provide endless opportunity and a career path that lets you choose where you want to be. (http://www.military.com/jobs-in/employe ... RC=mrvr.nl) Read More.


$300k Protection: from Only $21 a Month
Your family's future is important. Could your family survive financially if the unthinkable happened? Prepare your family with $300k quality coverage (http://www.military.com/insurance/asmba?ESRC=vr1021.nl) from only $21 a month.


Civilian Retiree ID Card Replacement
Retired Air Force civilians who use the Air Force Form 354, Civilian Identification Card, to access Air Force installations have until early 2014 to get a Department of Defense Civilian Retiree ID Card or other access credentials. Air Force Form 354 will be rescinded in early, 2014 as it does not meet the stringent security requirements established by the Department of Homeland Security. On installations where the commander has approved civilian retiree and dependent access, they can contact the civilian personnel office as a starting point for determining eligibility and for getting a secure access card for their family members. Once the AF354 is officially rescinded, which is tentatively slated for January, installation security will confiscate AF354 cards presented for access, so civilians should not wait to replace their access cards. For more information about access credentials and other personnel issues, visit (https://mypers.af.mil/) myPers and enter "AF 354" in the search window.
For more updates on military benefits, visit the (http://militaryadvantage.military.com) Military Advantage blog.


New "Sharpen Your Financial Focus" Program
As American consumers continue their struggle to rebuild assets and stabilize their personal financial futures, the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) has created a set of financial tools to help people find solutions and make educated decisions. The new Sharpen Your Financial Focus program allows consumers to identify their most pressing financial issue, and then select the appropriate solution options. The program includes an online financial self-assessment tool, a one-on-one financial review with an NFCC Certified Financial Professional to find solutions to current concerns and develop a realistic plan to meet long-term goals, and a financial education workshop designed as a "deep dive" into the major area(s) of interest to the consumer. More information can be found at (http://www.SharpenToday.org) www.SharpenToday.org.


Housing Returning Soldiers
Housing Our Nation's Outstanding Returning Soldiers, Inc., (H.O.N.O.R.S.) is a charitable organization designed to provide specialized housing to injured and disabled veterans in America. The organization endeavors to lessen the financial and emotional burdens imposed on injured and disabled veterans and their families by offering housing which would otherwise be unaffordable and/or unavailable to them and their families. For more information, visit the (http://honorshousingvets.org/) Housing Our Nation's Outstanding Returning Soldiers website or call 917-575-6818.
For more updates on veteran benefits programs, visit the (http://militaryadvantage.military.com) Military Advantage blog.


Veteran Artist Program
The nonprofit organization (http://www.warriorgateway.org/) Warrior Gateway invites veterans to join them in New York City from November 2nd-11th for the (http://veteranartistprogram.org/) Veteran Artist Program Arts & Service Celebration presented by Warrior Gateway. The Celebration includes a week of service projects, networking, social and professional events for veterans interested in the Arts as well as public events for everyone to enjoy. This event also marks the launch of Warrior Gateway's (http://www.warriorgateway.org/about/par ... otsinpaint) Patriots in Paint initiative, which is designed to build a strong network of community involvement. The Veteran Artist Program Arts & Service Celebration seeks to support veterans who have chosen to pursue a career in the arts, as well as connect valuable organizations to the military community. Additional information about the event, including sponsors, schedule of events, and tickets can be found at the (http://vap-nyc.org/) Veterans Artist Program website.


Get a VA Loan Benefit Guide
Understand the VA Loan benefit you've earned by downloading the free Miliary.com VA Loan Guide. The PDF guide walks you through the benefits of a VA Loan, eligibility, how to refinance, what forms you'll need, and more. (http://www.military.com/va-loan-guide/i ... rvr1021.nl) Download your free PDF now.
Your VA Loan Benefit allows you to buy or refinance a home with $0 Down. (https://secure.military.com/leads/VALoa ... rvr1021.nl) Find lenders ready to help your benefit.


Jewelry and Accessory Gift Guide
Shopping for a gift can be tricky if you're living the military lifestyle and especially if you're giving a gift to someone deployed. Factors like shipping and convenience are key aspects in the decision-making process. (http://www.military.com/ecomm/articles/ ... RC=mrvr.nl) Read More.


MOAA's Bottom Line: "Slow the Growth" or Pay Caps?
Over the past several months the Pentagon has adopted a new budget-cutting phrase, "Slow the growth." MOAA believes it shouldn't be sugarcoated, and to call it what it is -- extended pay caps. Read the rest of the article at (http://www.moaa.org/MROctBottomLine) Military Officers Association of America.


Employment Program in New York State
The Experience Counts program, an employment initiative in New York State, assists veterans to transfer from military service into civilian jobs. The latest part of the program certifies veterans to become a licensed armed security guard through an on-site training program. If the veterans do not have the training from the state Career Centers, they will need to go to a school for a fee and/or be trained by an employer, at a cost, for certification. The program is available free-of- charge and is available at all of the Department of Labor's New York State Career Centers. Once veterans are trained and licensed, Career Center staff will connect them to one of the more than 8,300 available security jobs statewide. For more information, visit the New York State Labor Department veterans' services website at (http://www.labor.ny.gov/vets/vetintropage.shtm) www.labor.ny.gov/vets/vetintropage.shtm.
For more veteran job news, tips, and job postings, visit the (http://www.military.com/veteran-jobs) Military.com Veteran Jobs Center.


DoD and VA Resume Normal Operations
The end of the government shutdown means the return of federal workers and the resumption of funding for DoD and VA functions. It also means servicemembers, military retirees, and veterans can relax knowing their pay and benefits will continue beyond the first of November. Now that things are returning to normal, the next concern is how the (http://www.military.com/benefits/2013/1 ... eezed.html) 2014 defense budget battles will affect our servicemembers and their families.
(http://militaryadvantage.military.com/2 ... perations/) Read the Military Advantage blog for the full story.


Domestic Violence Awareness Month
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month for the military. Sometimes the hardest wounds to treat are those that you cannot see. When these wounds are left untreated or undiagnosed, they can wreak havoc on a servicemember's life and the lives of those around them. This month, Military OneSource at (http://www.militaryonesource.mil/) www.militaryonesource.mil/ (Military Community and Family Policy) is highlighting resources available to servicemembers and their families to help support healthy relationships. If you have a question and you are not sure where to go, visit your installation's family center or call the Military OneSource line at 1-800-342-9647 or read the (http://warriorcare.dodlive.mil/2013/10/ ... -military/) Warrior Care Blog.
For more military family support resources, visit the (http://www.military.com/spouse) Military.com Family Center.


Law School Adds Vet-friendly Resource Center
The Student Veterans Resource Center at The John Marshall Law School offers current and former military members assistance in applying to law school. The Student Veterans Resource Center is housed in John Marshall's Veterans Legal Support Center & Clinic (VLSC), which recently opened its new facility. The center brings together a staff of veterans, admission counselors, and student vets to create a support team for current and former members of the military applying to John Marshall. For additional information about the Student Veterans Resource Center at the law school, visit (http://www.jmls.edu/admission/veterans/) www.jmls.edu/admission/veterans/.


Seapower Symposium Cancelled
The 21st International Seapower Symposium (ISS), scheduled for Oct. 22-25 in Newport, R.I., has been cancelled as a result of the government shutdown. The Symposium provides a forum where nations can have open and candid discussions and share perspectives on common interests. ISS is conducted every two years to bring together Naval and Coast Guard leaders from 111 nations. Previous symposia have improved regional information sharing, disaster relief, submarine rescue, coalition military operations, and joint law enforcement efforts to counter smuggling, illegal, unregulated, unreported fishing and piracy.
For more military news, visit the (http://www.military.com/daily-news) Military.com News Center.Veterans Report - Week of October 21, 2013

Veterans and the New Health Care Law
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) sent out a letter a few weeks ago to veterans explaining their options under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The new law will not change VA benefits. If a veteran is enrolled in VA healthcare, that coverage meets the standards for the ACA's insurance requirement. Most uninsured veterans are eligible for VA health care. However, not everyone who has served in uniform qualifies for VA health care such as Reserve or National Guard vets who served on active duty for training purposes only. Veterans who are not eligible for VA, and their families, could go to the Health Insurance Exchange. Another option, gaining Medicaid coverage, is limited in states that are not expanding the program. Here are some ways to enroll in VA care or determine your eligibility: (1) visit (http://www.va.gov/healthbenefits/enroll) www.va.gov/healthbenefits/enroll; (2) call 1-877-222-VETS (8387); and (3) visit your local VA health care facility. For more information, visit VA, the Affordable Care Act and You webpage at (http://www.va.gov/health/aca/) www.va.gov/health/aca/.
For more updates on VA benefits programs, visit the (http://militaryadvantage.military.com) Military Advantage blog.


FDA Warns Against Supplement
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is advising consumers to stop using OxyElite Pro, a dietary supplement, because of suspected links to acute hepatitis. The FDA is investigating reports of acute non-viral hepatitis in Hawaii where 29 cases are linked to a dietary supplement. The FDA urges consumers to stop using the product while the investigation continues. The product is sold nationwide in retail stores and on the Internet. Eleven of the 29 patients have been hospitalized with acute hepatitis, two have received liver transplants and one person has died. The CDC is also investigating other cases of liver injury nation-wide that could be related. For more information about the FDA warning, visit the (http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/Safe ... 370857.htm) FDA website.
For more news, visit the (http://www.military.com/daily-news) Military.com News Center.


I Am Unemployed. Now What?
VA's Philadelphia Pension Management Center Veterans still have an edge over civilians when it comes to employment. Find out what you can do to land a well-paying job on VA's (http://www.blogs.va.gov/VAntage/10148/i ... -now-what/) VAntage Point Blog.
For more veteran job news, tips, and job postings, visit the (http://www.military.com/veteran-jobs) Military.com Veteran Jobs Center.


Redskins Set Up Scholarship Fund
The Washington Redskins and (http://www.norfolknavyflagship.com/spor ... 963f4.html) Kaplan University have joined forces to create the Kaplan University -- Washington Redskins Military Family Scholarship Fund. The fund will award one full and up to 30 partial scholarships, which cover 54 to 59 percent of (http://www.norfolknavyflagship.com/spor ... 963f4.html) tuition costs for spouses and dependents of active duty, National Guard and reserve members. Scholarship recipients can choose from any of Kaplan University's undergraduate (http://www.norfolknavyflagship.com/spor ... 963f4.html) online degree programs or elect to attend Kaplan University's Hagerstown or Rockville, Md. locations. Applicants must be the non-enlisted spouse or dependent of a U.S. servicemember, including members of the National Guard and reserve. Family of deceased servicemembers who served after Sept. 11, 2001 are also eligible. The deadline for application is Oct. 26. To apply, visit (https://www.scholarshipamerica.org/kuwrs/) this page.
For more on military education programs, visit the (http://www.military.com/education) Military.com Education Center.


Everything You Need to Prepare for Deployment
Deploying Soon? Check out our deployment center to grab a financial checklist, learn about benefits and (http://www.military.com/deployment?ESRC=mrvr.nl) more.


New Job Program in Illinois
Federal officials in Illinois looking to engage younger veterans and quickly return them to civilian employment chose to pay for an innovative social media program by the Illinois Department of Employment Security. The pilot program could become a best-practices model to be used nationwide. Dubbed Army UCX, the program emphasizes social media channels to connect veterans with IDES employment services and the state's help-wanted job board, Illinoisjoblink.com. IDES is charged with delivering re-employment services to veterans and helped 17,000 Veterans find meaningful employment last year. Veterans can access personalized UCX service through Illinoisjoblink.com. The state's hiring board features more than 120,000 help-wanted ads. Job seekers can build multiple resumes to emphasize different skills and experiences. Business owners can use keyword matching technology to search resumes and find the best candidate. (https://illinoisjoblink.illinois.gov/ada/) Illinoisjoblink.com is free at the website and at (877) 342-7533.
For more veteran job news, tips, and job postings, visit the (http://www.military.com/veteran-jobs) Military.com Veteran Jobs Center.


Certifications, Licenses Streamlined in Connecticut
Connecticut Governor Dannel P. Malloy has signed an executive order that will streamline the process for veterans of the United States military when seeking to obtain occupational certifications and licenses, and simplifies the process for awarding college credit to veterans for military education. Under Governor Malloy's Executive Order No. 36, all state departments, boards, and commissions will review and revise their procedures when issuing occupational certifications and licenses to take into account relevant military education, skills and training when determining equivalency. For additional information on services available to veterans and their families, visit (http://www.veterans.ct.gov/veterans/site/default.asp) veterans.ct.gov.
For more updates on military benefits, visit the (http://militaryadvantage.military.com) Military Advantage blog.


University Giving Scholarships to Washington Vets
In response to Governor Inslee's Executive Order 13-01 and its commitment to serving the U.S. Military, City University of Seattle is giving $100,000 in scholarships to U.S. veterans who select Washington State as their home. In addition, CityU is committing a number of its key resources to aiding individuals who have served their state and nation. To be considered for this scholarship, transitioning veterans must submit a transcript; proof of Washington State residency; a Certificate of Eligibility; an essay; and a personal statement. For more details, see this (http://prn.to/16dnhEZ) press release.
For more military transition guides and tips, visit the (http://www.military.com/military-transition) Military.com Transition Center.


Re-Employment Protections
The Federal Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) protects individuals in the armed forces who leave their employment to serve in the military and return with an honorable discharge. The veteran must (http://blogs.lawyers.com/2013/09/vetera ... nt-rights/) apply for reinstatement within 180 days following the end of service. USERRA states that qualified individuals must be restored to the job and benefits level they would have achieved had they not left their employment for military service. If that is not possible, the servicemember must be provided with a comparable job. In general, employers must hold a job for five years. Plus, returning servicemembers cannot be fired without cause for a period of six months to a year (depending on their length of service) after they return to a job they held previously. For this period of time, they are exempt from "at will" employment standards. If the returning veteran is disabled, the employer must provide reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act. For more information, read the (http://www.dol.gov/vets/regs/fedreg/fin ... 023961.htm) USERRA and visit the (http://www.esgr.mil/USERRA/What-is-USERRA.aspx) Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve website. You can also visit (http://www.military.com/benefits/milita ... ers/userra) Military.com's USERRA overview.


Depression is Treatable
If you are concerned about yourself or a loved one, visit Military Pathways at (http://www.militarymentalhealth.org/) www.militarymentalhealth.org/ to take a free, anonymous, online self-assessment for common mental health conditions such as depression, posttraumatic stress disorder or generalized anxiety disorder. These conditions are treatable, and a self-assessment is not only easy but can be the first step you take toward getting the help you need. For more information, visit the (http://dcoe.mil/blog/13-10-10/Depressio ... Today.aspx) Defense Centers of Excellence Blog.
For more on military benefits, visit the (http://www.military.com/benefits) Military.com Benefits Center.


Search & Join over 40,000 Units on Military.com
Connect with your past or present Military Unit on Military.com. Post Messages, find old friends, see Unit History & Photos and more. (http://www.military.com/HomePage/UnitPa ... rvr1021.nl) Search over 40,000 Units.


Parker Hannifin Committed to Hiring Veterans
Start your civilian career with Parker Hannifin. As a global diversified technology and industrial leader they can provide endless opportunity and a career path that lets you choose where you want to be. (http://www.military.com/jobs-in/employe ... RC=mrvr.nl) Read More.


$300k Protection: from Only $21 a Month
Your family's future is important. Could your family survive financially if the unthinkable happened? Prepare your family with $300k quality coverage (http://www.military.com/insurance/asmba?ESRC=vr1021.nl) from only $21 a month.


Civilian Retiree ID Card Replacement
Retired Air Force civilians who use the Air Force Form 354, Civilian Identification Card, to access Air Force installations have until early 2014 to get a Department of Defense Civilian Retiree ID Card or other access credentials. Air Force Form 354 will be rescinded in early, 2014 as it does not meet the stringent security requirements established by the Department of Homeland Security. On installations where the commander has approved civilian retiree and dependent access, they can contact the civilian personnel office as a starting point for determining eligibility and for getting a secure access card for their family members. Once the AF354 is officially rescinded, which is tentatively slated for January, installation security will confiscate AF354 cards presented for access, so civilians should not wait to replace their access cards. For more information about access credentials and other personnel issues, visit (https://mypers.af.mil/) myPers and enter "AF 354" in the search window.
For more updates on military benefits, visit the (http://militaryadvantage.military.com) Military Advantage blog.


New "Sharpen Your Financial Focus" Program
As American consumers continue their struggle to rebuild assets and stabilize their personal financial futures, the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) has created a set of financial tools to help people find solutions and make educated decisions. The new Sharpen Your Financial Focus program allows consumers to identify their most pressing financial issue, and then select the appropriate solution options. The program includes an online financial self-assessment tool, a one-on-one financial review with an NFCC Certified Financial Professional to find solutions to current concerns and develop a realistic plan to meet long-term goals, and a financial education workshop designed as a "deep dive" into the major area(s) of interest to the consumer. More information can be found at (http://www.SharpenToday.org) www.SharpenToday.org.


Housing Returning Soldiers
Housing Our Nation's Outstanding Returning Soldiers, Inc., (H.O.N.O.R.S.) is a charitable organization designed to provide specialized housing to injured and disabled veterans in America. The organization endeavors to lessen the financial and emotional burdens imposed on injured and disabled veterans and their families by offering housing which would otherwise be unaffordable and/or unavailable to them and their families. For more information, visit the (http://honorshousingvets.org/) Housing Our Nation's Outstanding Returning Soldiers website or call 917-575-6818.
For more updates on veteran benefits programs, visit the (http://militaryadvantage.military.com) Military Advantage blog.


Veteran Artist Program
The nonprofit organization (http://www.warriorgateway.org/) Warrior Gateway invites veterans to join them in New York City from November 2nd-11th for the (http://veteranartistprogram.org/) Veteran Artist Program Arts & Service Celebration presented by Warrior Gateway. The Celebration includes a week of service projects, networking, social and professional events for veterans interested in the Arts as well as public events for everyone to enjoy. This event also marks the launch of Warrior Gateway's (http://www.warriorgateway.org/about/par ... otsinpaint) Patriots in Paint initiative, which is designed to build a strong network of community involvement. The Veteran Artist Program Arts & Service Celebration seeks to support veterans who have chosen to pursue a career in the arts, as well as connect valuable organizations to the military community. Additional information about the event, including sponsors, schedule of events, and tickets can be found at the (http://vap-nyc.org/) Veterans Artist Program website.


Get a VA Loan Benefit Guide
Understand the VA Loan benefit you've earned by downloading the free Miliary.com VA Loan Guide. The PDF guide walks you through the benefits of a VA Loan, eligibility, how to refinance, what forms you'll need, and more. (http://www.military.com/va-loan-guide/i ... rvr1021.nl) Download your free PDF now.
Your VA Loan Benefit allows you to buy or refinance a home with $0 Down. (https://secure.military.com/leads/VALoa ... rvr1021.nl) Find lenders ready to help your benefit.


Jewelry and Accessory Gift Guide
Shopping for a gift can be tricky if you're living the military lifestyle and especially if you're giving a gift to someone deployed. Factors like shipping and convenience are key aspects in the decision-making process. (http://www.military.com/ecomm/articles/ ... RC=mrvr.nl) Read More.


MOAA's Bottom Line: "Slow the Growth" or Pay Caps?
Over the past several months the Pentagon has adopted a new budget-cutting phrase, "Slow the growth." MOAA believes it shouldn't be sugarcoated, and to call it what it is -- extended pay caps. Read the rest of the article at (http://www.moaa.org/MROctBottomLine) Military Officers Association of America.


Employment Program in New York State
The Experience Counts program, an employment initiative in New York State, assists veterans to transfer from military service into civilian jobs. The latest part of the program certifies veterans to become a licensed armed security guard through an on-site training program. If the veterans do not have the training from the state Career Centers, they will need to go to a school for a fee and/or be trained by an employer, at a cost, for certification. The program is available free-of- charge and is available at all of the Department of Labor's New York State Career Centers. Once veterans are trained and licensed, Career Center staff will connect them to one of the more than 8,300 available security jobs statewide. For more information, visit the New York State Labor Department veterans' services website at (http://www.labor.ny.gov/vets/vetintropage.shtm) www.labor.ny.gov/vets/vetintropage.shtm.
For more veteran job news, tips, and job postings, visit the (http://www.military.com/veteran-jobs) Military.com Veteran Jobs Center.


DoD and VA Resume Normal Operations
The end of the government shutdown means the return of federal workers and the resumption of funding for DoD and VA functions. It also means servicemembers, military retirees, and veterans can relax knowing their pay and benefits will continue beyond the first of November. Now that things are returning to normal, the next concern is how the (http://www.military.com/benefits/2013/1 ... eezed.html) 2014 defense budget battles will affect our servicemembers and their families.
(http://militaryadvantage.military.com/2 ... perations/) Read the Military Advantage blog for the full story.


Domestic Violence Awareness Month
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month for the military. Sometimes the hardest wounds to treat are those that you cannot see. When these wounds are left untreated or undiagnosed, they can wreak havoc on a servicemember's life and the lives of those around them. This month, Military OneSource at (http://www.militaryonesource.mil/) www.militaryonesource.mil/ (Military Community and Family Policy) is highlighting resources available to servicemembers and their families to help support healthy relationships. If you have a question and you are not sure where to go, visit your installation's family center or call the Military OneSource line at 1-800-342-9647 or read the (http://warriorcare.dodlive.mil/2013/10/ ... -military/) Warrior Care Blog.
For more military family support resources, visit the (http://www.military.com/spouse) Military.com Family Center.


Law School Adds Vet-friendly Resource Center
The Student Veterans Resource Center at The John Marshall Law School offers current and former military members assistance in applying to law school. The Student Veterans Resource Center is housed in John Marshall's Veterans Legal Support Center & Clinic (VLSC), which recently opened its new facility. The center brings together a staff of veterans, admission counselors, and student vets to create a support team for current and former members of the military applying to John Marshall. For additional information about the Student Veterans Resource Center at the law school, visit (http://www.jmls.edu/admission/veterans/) www.jmls.edu/admission/veterans/.


Seapower Symposium Cancelled
The 21st International Seapower Symposium (ISS), scheduled for Oct. 22-25 in Newport, R.I., has been cancelled as a result of the government shutdown. The Symposium provides a forum where nations can have open and candid discussions and share perspectives on common interests. ISS is conducted every two years to bring together Naval and Coast Guard leaders from 111 nations. Previous symposia have improved regional information sharing, disaster relief, submarine rescue, coalition military operations, and joint law enforcement efforts to counter smuggling, illegal, unregulated, unreported fishing and piracy.
For more military news, visit the (http://www.military.com/daily-news) Military.com News Center.