VETERANS NEWSLETTER. A message from James J. Tedesco III. County Executive. Every November 11th we come together

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1 VETERANS NEWSLETTER 1st Quarter 2016 Volume 36 Highlights Benefits 3 Stolen Valor 7 Jobs 9 Scholarships 10 Moving Wall 12 Tracers 5K 14 Events 16 Post Calendars 17 James J. Tedesco III County Executive BOARD OF CHOSEN FREEHOLDERS Dr. Joan M. Voss Chairwoman Steven A. Tanelli Vice Chairman John A. Felice Chair Pro Tempore Maura R. DeNicola David L. Ganz Thomas J. Sullivan, Jr. Tracy Silna Zur DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES Jane C. Linter Director DIVISION OF VETERANS SERVICES A.J. Luna Director Susan Krause Editor/Secretary One Bergen County Plaza, 2nd Floor Hackensack, NJ (201) Fax (201) veterans@co.bergen.nj.us A message from James J. Tedesco III County Executive Every November 11th we come together to remember those who serve and have served our country on Veterans Day. These brave soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, Coast Guardsmen and reservists are the reason why we enjoy the many freedoms we have today across the country. But our veterans should be recognized and celebrated all year long for their many contributions and that is why these past 12 months my Administration has strived to help veterans by donating more than two dozen computers to Veterans of Foreign Wars Posts, Legion Halls and other veterans services nonprofits across the county. We ve also made great strides toward Let me begin by wishing everyone a Happy New Year! I hope you were able to spend some quality time with your loved ones during this season. I am proud and happy to announce that Bergen County has been leading the charge to end veteran homelessness in our county for We are very fortunate to have strategic partners in place to quickly address this issue. Our partners include: the Bergen County Shelter, Catholic Charities, Soldier On, Community Hope, and North Action Hudson Community. The Division established an aggressive outreach strategy which included hiring a veteran part-time to work in the Shelter to identify all the residents who are veterans. We worked closely with the Bergen County Shelter to coordinate services for whatever the veterans need. Many of your Tracers donations have been able help our veterans get back on their feet and get them into better housing situations. We have housed over 70 veterans and their families. I know you can all agree that we can always improve. There will be more affordable housing units coming in 2016 in the municipalities of Paramus, helping veterans receive the job training, education, health care and social services they need to lead happier, healthier lives. My Veterans Services team which only had two employees in the previous Administration now has more than twice that number in staff to advocate for the veterans across Bergen County who need our help and can be reached at should you need assistance. We have also implemented an initiative to help homeless veterans find affordable housing and are well on our way toward the goal of ensuring no veterans are living on the streets or in the need of food. And as we get ready to start this next calendar year, we are brainstorming and preparing to implement even more initiatives to help our veteran population. I cannot say this enough thank you for your service. You are appreciated and we will never stop trying to find ways to help return the favor for your dedication and commitment to public service. Have a Happy Holiday Season and a wonderful New Year. From the desk of the Director of Veteran Services ~ A.J. Luna Emerson, and Northvale. Please look for the announcements in local newspapers or If you know a veteran who needs this, please have them call the Office at We are striving to help as many veterans as we can by assisting them. United We Stand SEPTEMBER 11, 2001

2 T R A N S P O R T A T I O N F O R V E T E R A N S Bergen County Division of Community Transportation Call to learn more about the various transportation options available to our veterans. Flag Distribution Phone: Each year, the Division of Veterans Services provides various veterans groups and Boy Scout Troops with United States flags for Memorial Day placement on the graves of war veterans buried in Bergen County cemeteries. COMING SOON: THE MOVING WALL COMES TO BERGEN COUNTY MAY 19-23, 2016 "The Moving Wall" is the half-size replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, DC and has been touring the country for thirty plus years. When John Devitt attended the 1982 dedication in Washington, he felt the positive power of "The Wall." He vowed to share that experience with those who did not have the opportunity to go to Washington. John, Norris Shears, Gerry Haver, and other Vietnam veteran volunteers built The Moving Wall. It went on display for the first time in Tyler, Texas in October of Two structures of The Moving Wall now travel the USA from April through November, spending about a week at each site. See more inside on page 12 about how you can be part of this event or call Fred Hayo, Bergen County Veterans Services, TRACERS WANTS TO END HOMELESSNESS FOR VETERANS IN BERGEN COUNTY BY HELPING HOMELESS VETERANS AND VETERANS IN DANGER OF BECOMING HOMELESS, AND GIVING A HAND TO HOMELESS VETS, NOT A HAND-OUT. WORKING TOGETHER, WE CAN DO IT. Bergen County Military Service Medal Bergen County offers a service medal to all county residents, currently living or who died in the county, who have been honorably discharged from the U.S. military. The Bergen County Military Service Medal will also be awarded posthumously to county residents. Hire a Vet Program Phone: The division maintains a list of available employment opportunities, and regularly calls on industry and organizations seeking employment opportunities for veterans. Staff attempts to match the veteran with employer needs. To obtain a Veteran's Honorary Service card, Veterans must fill out an application, and present a copy of their Separation Papers from Active Duty (DD-214 Form) or the WSAGO 53-55, NAVPERS 553 or NAVMC 790, along with valid photo identification. Veterans can also verify with our office if their service records are already on file with the county. There is no charge for filing military service records or for the issuance of the card. Copies of Honorable Discharges form DD-214 that have been filed with the Bergen County Clerk are available upon request to Veterans of their immediate Bergen County Clerk's Office The Honorable John S. Hogan ~ Bergen County Clerk family. Veterans who are residents of Bergen County may apply for a Veterans Peddler License. There is no fee, but you need a copy of your DD-214. A Veteran Peddlers License is issued by the County Clerk's office in the county where the Veteran currently resides. The license allows the holder to hawk or sell goods or merchandise within the State of New Jersey without the need to apply for any additional peddler s license. For more information contact the Bergen County Clerk s Office at or via countyclerk@co.bergen.nj.us.

3 BERGEN COUNTY VETERANS NEWSLETTER 1st QUARTER WHAT VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES SHOULD KNOW WHEN APPLYING FOR VA PENSION BENEFITS WHAT ARE PENSION BENEFITS? Pension is a needs-based benefit paid to a wartime Veteran and his/her survivor(s). A Veteran may generally be eligible if he/she: was discharged from service under other than dishonorable conditions, AND served 90 days or more of active military, naval or air service with at least 1 day during a period of war*, AND his/her countable income is below the maximum annual pension rate, AND meets the net worth limitations, AND is age 65 or older, OR is shown by evidence to have a permanent and total non-serviceconnected disability, OR is a patient in a nursing home, OR is receiving Social Security disability benefits. *Veterans who entered active duty after September 7, 1980, must also have served at least 24 months of active duty service. If the total length of service is less than 24 months, the Veteran must have completed his/her entire tour of active duty. Aid and Attendance (A&A) is an increased monthly pension amount paid to a Veteran or surviving spouse. You may be eligible for the increased A&A amount if: You are eligible for basic pension benefits AND You require the aid of another person in order to perform activities of daily living, such as bathing, feeding, dressing, toileting, adjusting prosthetic devices, or protecting yourself from the hazards of your daily environment, OR You are bedridden, in that your disability or disabilities require that you remain in bed apart from any prescribed course of convalescence or treatment, OR Note: Disabilities determined by VA to be related to your military service can lead to monthly non-taxable compensation, enrollment in the VA health care system, a 10-point hiring preference for federal employment and other important benefits. Ask your VA representative or Veterans Service Organization representative about Disability Compensation, Pension, Health Care, Caregiver Program, Career Services, Educational Assistance, Home Loan Guaranty, Insurance and/or Dependents and Survivors Benefits.

4 4 BERGEN COUNTY VETERANS NEWSLETTER 1st QUARTER 2016 You are a patient in a nursing home due to mental or physical incapacity, OR You have corrected visual acuity of 5/200 or less, in both eyes, or concentric contraction of the visual field to 5 degrees or less. Housebound is an increased monthly pension amount paid to a Veteran or surviving spouse who is substantially confined to his or her home because of permanent disability. You may be eligible if: You are eligible for basic pension benefits AND You have a single permanent disability evaluated as 100-percent disabling AND, due to a disability or disabilities, you are permanently and substantially confined to your immediate premises, OR You have a single permanent disability evaluated as 100-percent disabling AND another disability or disabilities, independently evaluated as 60-percent or more disabling. What do I need to know about the organizations that are offering assistance with claims for pension benefits? The U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging (Committee) found that some organizations are misrepresenting themselves while helping Veterans and survivors apply for VA pension. In a June 2012 hearing, the Committee addressed concerns that some organizations are marketing financial products and services to enable claimants whose assets exceed the VA pension program s financial eligibility thresholds to qualify for VA pension benefits. The Committee also learned these organizations may charge substantial fees for products and services that may not always be in claimants best long-term interests. You can access a video of the hearing on the Committee s website. The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) published a report, Veterans Pension Benefits: Improvements Needed to Ensure Only Qualified Veterans and Survivors Receive Benefits, GAO GAO found that: There are over 200 organizations that market financial and estate-planning services to help pension claimants with excess assets meet financial eligibility requirements for pension benefits. These organizations consist primarily of financial planners and attorneys who offer products such as annuities and trusts. Some products and services provided, such as annuities, may not be suitable for elderly Veterans because they may not have access to all their funds for their care within their expected lifetime without facing high withdrawal fees. These products and services may result in ineligibility for Medicaid for a period of time. Some organizations charged fees, ranging from a few hundred dollars for benefits counseling to $10,000 for establishment of a trust. Who can help me file a claim for VA pension, including pension at the aid and attendance or housebound rates?

5 BERGEN COUNTY VETERANS NEWSLETTER 1st QUARTER An individual generally must first be accredited by VA to assist a claimant in the preparation, presentation, and prosecution of a claim for VA benefits even without charge. VA accredits three types of individuals for this purpose: Representatives of VA-recognized Veterans service organizations Independent claims agents Private Attorneys A searchable list of accredited representatives, agents, and attorneys is available at the VA Office of the General Counsel website: VA accreditation, which is for the sole and limited purpose of preparing, presenting, and prosecuting claims before VA, is necessary to ensure that claimants for VA benefits have responsible, qualified representation. VA regulations allow a one-time exception to this general rule, which allows VA to authorize a person to prepare, present, and prosecute one claim without accreditation. The assistance must be without cost to the claimant, is subject to the laws governing representation, and may not be used to evade the accreditation requirements. Preparation and presentation of a VA claim includes, among other things, gathering the information necessary to file a claim for benefits, completing claim applications, submitting claim information to VA, and communicating with VA on behalf of a claimant. A VA-accredited attorney or claims agent, who is also a financial planner, may assist a claimant with a claim for A&A. However, financial planners may not use their VA accreditation for the purpose of promoting or selling financial products. If VA determines that an accredited attorney or agent is using VA accreditation for an improper purpose, VA may suspend or cancel the individual s accreditation. Can an accredited attorney or claims agent, who is also a financial planner, charge a fee for preparing a claim for A&A? No. An accredited attorney or claims agent may generally charge claimants a fee only after an agency of original jurisdiction (e.g., a VA regional office) has issued a decision on a claim, a notice of disagreement has been filed, and the attorney or agent has filed a power of attorney and a fee agreement with VA. An exception applies when an accredited attorney or claims agent receives a fee or salary from a disinterested third party. A third party is considered disinterested only if the entity or individual would not benefit financially from the successful outcome of the claim. We note that some individuals charge a pre-filing consultation fee to inform a Veteran or survivor about VA benefits that may be available to them. In certain states, a license to practice law may be required to provide and charge a fee for such consultations, which may be considered giving legal advice.

6 6 BERGEN COUNTY VETERANS NEWSLETTER 1st QUARTER 2016 Such consultation fees are unlawful if they are charged after a Veteran or survivor becomes a VA claimant by expressing to the attorney or agent an intent to file a claim for VA benefits. A consultation fee may not be tied to the outcome of a claim filed with VA if the attorney or agent provides any claims assistance that is, an attorney or agent cannot agree to refund the fee if, after the attorney or agent assists with a VA claim, VA ultimately denies the claim. Such a fee would amount to an unlawful contingency fee or advance payment for assistance with an application for VA benefits. VA-recognized Veterans service organizations, including their accredited representatives, are not permitted to receive fees for their services in connection with a VA claim in any instance. If VA determines that an accredited attorney or agent is improperly charging a fee for preparing, presenting, or prosecuting a claim prior to the filing of a notice of disagreement, VA may suspend or cancel the individual s accreditation. Is it permissible to offer a guarantee that a claimant will be awarded A&A or that the processing of a claim will be expedited? No. Such promises are patently misleading because VA is ultimately the adjudicator of claims for VA benefits. If VA determines that an accredited attorney or agent has misled or deceived a claimant regarding benefits or other rights under programs administered by VA, VA may suspend or cancel the individual s accreditation. For more information, call Toll-Free or visit Local: Veterans Service Office Bergen/Passaic (Veterans Service Officer) 125 State Street, Suite #109 Hackensack, NJ (201) / 8051 Fax: (201) Local: VA Hackensack Clinic, Medical Clinic 385 Prospect Ave. Hackensack, NJ Phone: (201) Features Primary care services for veterans in the New Jersey and surrounding areas. Behavioral Health services including individual, group and family counseling. Handicapped Accessible: full and easy access for all veterans. Personal Care: Highly qualified primary care providers, specialty care referrals to the East Orange and Lyons Campuses. Laboratory: Blood drawing services available. Prescriptions: Routine prescriptions processed through the mail or My HealtheVet.

7 BERGEN COUNTY VETERANS NEWSLETTER 1st QUARTER Standard Services All appointments are scheduled prior to visit. Primary Care Nutrition Social Work Mental Health Specialty Clinics Clinics meet on specific days and appointments are scheduled prior to visit. Teleretinal (Diabetic Eye Screening) Women's Health Visit for more information. 'NEW JERSEY STOLEN VALOR ACT' NOW LAW Legislation sponsored by the New Jersey General Assembly Vince Mazzeo, Bob Andrzejczak, Joseph Lagana, Raj Mukherji, Cleopatra Tucker, and Carmelo G. Garcia to crack down on individuals who demean members of the U.S. Armed Forces by falsely impersonating veterans or active duty military in order to try and receive various perks has been signed into law. The law (A-4104) was inspired by recent reports of a growing trend in which veterans and activeduty troops record people they believe are faking military service, often times to try and receive various perks, and post the results on social media. In one of the most recent videos, which has received nearly five million hits on YouTube, a veteran at the Oxford Valley Mall in Pennsylvania questions a man in army fatigues who claims to have served in Afghanistan and Iraq as a member of the elite Army Rangers, but clearly appears unfamiliar with proper military protocol. Anyone who attempts to obtain any financial benefit or perks by knowingly lying about their military or veteran status really stoops to a new low, said Mazzeo (Atlantic). These 2 examples of Stolen Valor demean those who have served in the military and those who have sacrificed and lost their lives in defense of our nation. It is my hope that this legislation and its harsh penalties will help dissuade anyone from continuing this heinous practice. The law, designated the New Jersey Stolen Valor Act, cracks down on these imposters by making it a crime of the third degree, with a mandatory minimum fine of $1,000, to knowingly misrepresent oneself as a veteran or member of the military for the purpose of obtaining money, property or another benefit by wearing the uniform or any medal or insignia authorized for use by the members or veterans of the United Armed Forces or the organized militia. Every soldier earns each and every stripe or promotion with hard work and dedication to their country, said Andrzejczak (Cape May/Atlantic/Cumberland). To impersonate a veteran and

8 8 BERGEN COUNTY VETERANS NEWSLETTER 1st QUARTER 2016 benefit from the service and sacrifice of real military men and woman is disgraceful. It deserves punishment to the fullest extent of the law. Currently, state law makes it a crime of the fourth degree to knowingly present oneself as a veteran or a member of the military with the intent to deceive, but not necessarily for the purpose of obtaining any kind of benefit, by wearing a military uniform or medal or insignia. The invaluable experience and knowledge of military men and women cannot be easily duplicated, said Lagana (Bergen/Passaic). There should be a penalty those who try to impersonate them and take advantage of military perks and benefits offered in New Jersey. Service men and women put their lives on the line in the most dangerous of situations to protect our freedoms here and abroad, said Mukherji (Hudson). Impersonation of a soldier is nothing to take lightly. Men and women have earned their status as members of the U.S. Armed Force and must be given the respect and honor they deserve for their service. Additionally, the law will make false statements regarding oneself as a recipient of any decoration or medal of the U.S. Armed Forces or organized militia for the purpose of obtaining money, property or another benefit a crime of the third degree, with a mandatory minimum fine of $1,000. State law does not presently prohibit false statements about military or veteran status. Federal law prohibits both the unauthorized wearing of a military uniform or any distinctive part thereof and false statements as to receipt of military decorations or medals for the purpose of obtaining money, property, or some other tangible benefit. Impersonating a military officer in order to take advantage of special benefits is a despicable act and it should be a crime in New Jersey, said Tucker (Essex), chair of the Assembly Military and Veterans Affairs Committee. Individuals who impersonate the military are mocking the sacrifices made by real service men and women, said Garcia (Hudson). This law makes it clear that this behavior will not be tolerated in New Jersey. Any fines collected under the law will be dedicated to the Military Dependents Scholarship Fund, established by this recently-signed law (A-2849). The fund will provide college scholarships to the spouses and children of those killed, missing in action or disabled in the Post 9/11 Operation Noble Eagle, Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom, or Operation New Dawn. (Source: Paul Nichols,

9 BERGEN COUNTY VETERANS NEWSLETTER 1st QUARTER HIRING AMERICA TV SHOW HITS RECORD NUMBER OF STATIONS IN SYNDICATION NEARLY 200 ACROSS THE NATION CARRY THE WEEKLY PROGRAM HELPING VETERANS FIND WORK Hiring America the nation s only television program devoted to helping veterans leaving the military find good jobs is now being carried by 195 TV stations nationwide the largest number in its two-year history. And it s able to do it via the production support of the VFW. And it continues to gain momentum. We re really proud to be providing vital information and advice on employment, careers, new job opportunities, interviewing techniques and tips to the men and women of the armed forces, said Bill Deutch, executive producer and creator. And our audience keeps growing as vets, their families, friends, well-wishers and potential employers follow the show, he lamented. But we couldn t do it without the help of friends like the VFW. With major cuts in U.S. military having been in place over the past few years and with the downsizing of military personnel literally thousands of career veterans have been asked to make the transition from the armed services to civilian life. And there are more to come. They will be looking to parlay their military experience into civilian jobs and the conversion more often than not isn t easy. But there is something very different out there via Hiring America and it s available to just about all of them. The VFW is once again delighted to support Hiring America in its mission of helping our veterans prepare for and find good jobs, related Adjutant General John E. Hamilton. And it s wonderful to see the increased interest among television outlets and viewers across the nation in recognizing the practical needs of our military personnel as they prepare for life outside the military. We believe the show and its content reflect the strengths and goals of our organization. Again hosted by television news reporter Gigi Stone whose credentials include Good Morning America and ABC News the 30-minute programs cover a wide spectrum of guests those with expertise and knowledge in career counseling and guidance; CEOs and other business executives with real world experience and success stories; and former veterans and military personnel in the news. The show is the brainchild of entrepreneur Bill Deutch who also serves as executive producer. He has committed the last five years of his life to bringing the concept from a dream to reality. I can t think of any more worthwhile endeavor than supporting and helping the men and women of our military, he said. I m also very grateful to the VFW and the rest of our sponsors for making a second season of Hiring America possible.

10 10 BERGEN COUNTY VETERANS NEWSLETTER 1st QUARTER 2016 At the end of the day, Deutch lamented, if we help make the transition easier for just one veteran make it possible for him or her to succeed in civilian life Hiring America will have done its job. About Hiring America Hiring America is the first employment TV program for transitioning veterans and their families. Our mission is to help veterans and members of the Armed Forces connect with companies that have jobs available and organizations that support the military community. Each participating company and organization is carefully selected to participate on the show. Hiring America looks to companies with strong veteran hiring initiatives and organizations whose mission it is to provide services that facilitate the transition process. Our goal on each episode is for the viewer to have the ability to access companies and entities that are actively hiring veterans today. For industries that are regionally based such as utilities, we give viewers the ability to learn about how to connect these industries in their own community. Hiring America is your advocate in the world of veteran employment. For more information about the show, please contact us. About the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. is a non-profit veterans service organization comprised of eligible veterans and military service members from the active, Guard and Reserve forces. Founded in 1899 and chartered by Congress in 1936, the VFW is the nation s largest organization of war veterans and its oldest major veterans organization. There are more than 1.7 million VFW and Auxiliary members located in 6,800 Posts worldwide. The VFW and its Auxiliaries are dedicated to veterans service, legislative advocacy, and military and community service programs. For more information or to join, visit (Source: BCNJAL NEWS: AMERICAN LEGION SCHOLARSHIP Bergen County American Legion is pleased to announce the following scholarship applications and requirements are available: Oratorical Contest: For the below scholarships go to: (see note) Eagle Scout Scholarship Bergen County American Legion Gene Howell/Don Holmes Scholarship (must be a Bergen County Resident or a relative of a Bergen County Legion Family member). George Axt Nursing Scholarship NJVVM 2016 Scholarship Application (New Jersey Viet Nam Memorial)

11 BERGEN COUNTY VETERANS NEWSLETTER 1st QUARTER NJ Scholarship Application (must be a natural or adopted dependent of a Legion Member) 1.Includes John Casey Scholarship for Combat Wounded Veterans) Rochelle Park Post 170 Application (must be a Rochelle Park resident or a relative of a Rochelle Park Post 170 family member). For info on Boys State and for an application to apply as a delegate (for schools where there is no post contact): For info on Girls State: To find a local post s contact info go to: For additional information or questions bcalcommander@gmail.com. For God and Country We Continue to Serve: Bob Salvini Commander Note: As additional scholarships become available they will be added to this folder, so check back. (Source: HOLIDAYS, OBSERVANCES, AND EVENTS January January 1: New Year s Day January 18: Martin Luther King s Birthday National Holiday February February 2: Groundhog Day February 4: USO Birthday February 14: Valentine s Day February 15: President s Day /Washington s Birthday National Holiday February 19: Coast Guard Reserves Birthday March March 3: Navy Reserves Birthday March 4: Mardi Gras March 13: Daylight Saving Time March 15: American Legion s Birthday March 17: St. Patrick s Day

12 12 BERGEN COUNTY VETERANS NEWSLETTER 1st QUARTER 2016 VISITOR GUIDES NEEDED FOR THE MOVING WALL AT OVERPECK PARK - MAY 19-23, 2016 The Division of Veterans Services is sponsoring The Moving Wall visit to Bergen County to (1) Help bring healing to veterans and families and friends of those who died or are missing in Vietnam, especially those who may not have the opportunity to see the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington DC. The intention is to help close old wounds, not to open them. And, (2) to educate the community about the war in Vietnam and its impact on our nation and our veterans. Visitor Guides at The Moving Wall are unpaid volunteers. Their jobs include: Help make visits more personal, meaningful, and comfortable Provide comfort and emotional support to visitors Help visitors find names by using the directories or computer Help visitors find names on The Moving Wall Make name rubbings or help visitors make name rubbings Answer questions about The Moving Wall or the Wall in DC Answer questions about the schedule of events Help maintain a quiet, solemn, mood near The Moving Wall Help keep the area clean Please indicate on the form in the back of this newsletter, the days and hours you would like to work. You may fax your form to (201) or it to veteranoutreach2@co.bergen.nj.us. Please be sure to complete all areas. We plan to call everyone, to confirm their times and give last minute details. Feel free to also come at additional times, to perform Visitor Guide duties, or just visit. However, we do not want anyone to volunteer for such long hours that they endanger their health or safety. Visitor Guides will wear yellow hats while on duty, similar to National Park Service Volunteers at the Wall in DC. If we can acquire enough hats, each volunteer will have their own. If not, please turn in the hat upon completion of your tour each day. You may bring service ribbons, patches, pins, or buttons to add personality to your hat. Visitor Guides will also be given a bright yellow nametag with Visitor Guide and your name. Alcoholic beverages and illegal drugs are not allowed at the site. Please contact Fred Hayo at the Bergen County Division of Veterans Services at (201) or for more information about how you and your organization can be part of this exciting event. More details to follow. Please visit to learn more.

13 BERGEN COUNTY VETERANS NEWSLETTER 1st QUARTER BERGEN COUNTY HOSTS FIRST ANNUAL TRACERS 5K RUN AT OVERPECK PARK On October 25, 2015, the Bergen County Division of Veterans Services hosted the first annual Tracers 5K run at Overpeck Park in Ridgefield Park, NJ. Bergen County Executive James J. Tedesco III kicked off the inaugural event thanking the volunteers and runners for their support of the program to end veterans homelessness. A.J. Luna, Director of the County s Veterans Services, reminded the crowd that Bergen County is home to the largest population of veterans in New Jersey and it is the goal of the county to end homelessness among our veterans by year end. County Executive Tedesco Freeholder Maura DeNicola was on hand to support the cause. Her son, Philip, is a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, and is currently serving as an F-18 pilot. About Tracers The goal of Tracers is to end homelessness for veterans in Bergen County by helping homeless veterans and veterans in danger of becoming homeless, and giving a hand to homeless vets, not a hand-out.. Assisting homeless veterans is a top priority for the Bergen County Division of Veterans Services and its Advisory Board. In 1993, the division addressed this priority by launching Tracers, an allvolunteer group consisting of resident veterans. The primary mission of volunteers is to locate homeless veterans and link them to communitybased and VA sponsored programs and benefits. Tracers finds veterans shelter and jobs which provide adequate income. Tracers works with local veteran groups and other nonprofit organizations, public officials, business leaders, homeless and formerly homeless veterans. The program's name, Tracers, was derived from the glow-in-the-dark bullets recognized by U.S. Military personnel. The veterans who volunteer for Tracers are guiding lights who offer nontraditional outreach efforts to homeless veterans. The mission of Tracers is to help every homeless veteran in Bergen County reach selfsufficiency. In addition, Tracers has established a transitional home in the city of Garfield with support services for eight homeless veterans. The home opened in While the exact number of homeless veterans in Bergen County is unknown, the number is estimated at nearly one hundred. Some veterans in Bergen are without a residence, but they are not really homeless - the United States is their home. In 1994, Tracers was recognized by Rutgers University for its innovation and received the coveted New Jersey State and Local Award. In April 1996, the Volunteer Center of Bergen County, Inc. honored Tracers as a finalist in the adult volunteer category.

14 14 BERGEN COUNTY VETERANS NEWSLETTER 1st QUARTER 2016 Donations to the Tracers program are used to supply bus tickets to jobs, assist in preparing the veteran for employment, and to fill-in gaps in the service delivery system. Since our inception, more than $100,000 in bus tickets has been given to homeless vets. There's no time like the present... send a check or call (201) Checks can be made payable to: County of Bergen - Tracers Bergen County Division of Veterans Services One Bergen County Plaza, 2nd Floor Hackensack, NJ You can also help by donating $25 - $50 gift certificates redeemable in Hackensack stores such as Sears, Walmart, Target, Shop Rite, and CVS Pharmacy. Tracers is also in need of new items such as carrying bags, sweatshirts (large and extra-large) which may be dropped off weekdays between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Parking is available and pickup can be arranged for individual cartons weighing less than 25 lbs. Tracers assures that every penny donated is spent on items and services which help improve the lives of former members of the United States Military and their families who are now homeless. (Source: Also you may visit to see Verizon FIOS television coverage of the event. FITTING TRIBUTE TO GOLD STAR MOTHERS To the Editor of The Ridgewood News: Gold Star Mother's Day organizers offer thanks On Sunday, Sept. 27, 2015, for our fifth year many gathered at Van Neste Park in Ridgewood to commemorate Gold Star Mother's Day. Gold Star families are the families of our military servicemen and women killed in the line of duty. The last Sunday in September has been reserved to honor our Gold Star Mothers by U.S. Presidential proclamation started in We honor their sacrifice and stand with them on this solemn day and every day throughout the year. A moving ceremony and lighting of luminaries highlighted the event at which we were honored to have in attendance Ms. Linda Christian, the Gold Star Mother of SSGT Eric Christian of Ramsey (USMC, Afghanistan - killed May 4, 2013).

15 BERGEN COUNTY VETERANS NEWSLETTER 1st QUARTER The American Legion Post 53 and the Ridgewood Gold Star Mother's Day Committee extend our heartfelt thanks to the Village Council, the Fire Department, Police Department, Signal Department, Ridgewood Boys and Girl Scouts, Ridgewood Public Schools, Ridgewood High School Project Interact, Elks Club Army of Hope, Blue Star Mothers North New Jersey Chapter 3, numerous other participants, and the residents of our village, as well as many others in attendance, for their support to again make this commemorative occasion a resounding success. For those who did not get a chance to attend this year, we invite you to join us next year on Sunday, Sept. 25, 2016, and be part of this notable tribute to Gold Star Mothers. Maria Bombace, Gold Star Mother's Day Committee Bob Paoli, Commander, American Legion Post 53 (Source: THANKS TO TRACERS BENEFACTORS (10/15/ /1/2015) Gold ($500 and above): American Legion Post 128, Teaneck Hackensack Policeman s Benevolent Association Local 9 Alfred Sanzari Enterprises Bronze ($100 - $249): New Jersey Policemen s Benevolent Association Local 67, Fair Lawn Joann & David Boesch Catherine & John Vervoort Jr. Horizon Foundation of New Jersey Boosters (Under or up to $99): Mr. & Mrs. Glen Spinella Mary Webster & James Metalios Louise & Robert Haertel Waldwick Memorial VFW Post 1049 Mary Parnow

16 16 BERGEN COUNTY VETERANS NEWSLETTER 1st QUARTER 2016 EVENTS IN 2016 Every Tuesday: Wood-Ridge VFW Post 3616 & Post Ladies Auxiliary will meet 9:30 am 11:00 am at Paramus Veterans Home every Tuesday for card playing and socializing with the veterans that reside the home. 1st Monday: (1/4, 2/1, 3/7) Paramus VFW Post 6699 will have its monthly bus trip to Atlantic City. The bus will leave from 6 East Winslow Place, Paramus, at 7:45 am. The cost is $30. This trip is open to all. You do not have to be a post member or a resident of Paramus to attend. There is ample onsite parking available. The cost is $30. If you have questions or would like to reserve a seat please call Paul Thompson at nd Monday: (1/11, 2/8, 3/14) Catholic War Veterans of Bergen County Bingo at the Paramus Veterans Home (7-8 pm). 4th Monday: (1/25, 2/22, 3/28) New Milford-Teaneck JWV Post 498 sponsors bingo at the Paramus Veterans Home (7-8 pm). For more information call Stephen at MOPH 522 Paramus at the Paramus Veterans Home (7:30 pm). 3rd Tuesday: (1/19, 2/16, 3/15) Rutherford American Legion Post 109 Ward Party East Orange (6 pm). 4th Tuesday: (1/26, 2/23, 3/22) East District Elks Bingo at the Paramus Veterans Home (7 pm). 3rd Wednesday: (1/20, 2/17, 3/16) Fairlawn Jewish War Veterans Post 651 bingo at the Paramus Veterans Home (7-8 pm). 1st Thursday: (1/7, 2/4, 3/3) VVA Chapter 800 (Bergen County) Party at Lyons VAMC (6 pm). 3rd Sunday: (1/17, 2/21, 3/20) Elmwood Park American Legion Post 147 Third Sunday Pancake Breakfast (8-11:30 am), 1 Legion Place, Elmwood Park. Contact (201)

17 VETERANS POSTS MEETING SCHEDULE JANUARY 2016 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 Fair Lawn American Legion SAL New Milford-Teaneck JWV Post 498 Fair Lawn Jewish War Veterans Post 651 Fort Lee Jewish War Veterans Post American Legion Alexander Stover Post 37 Waldwick American Legion Post 57 Walter Nightengale Ladies Auxiliary Unit Cliffside Park American Legion Post 126 Teaneck VFW Post Rutherford American Legion Post 109 SAL Squadron VVA Chapter Bergen County 5 Rutherford American Legion Post 109 Auxiliary Unit Lyndhurst American Legion Post 139 Fort Lee Post 2342 Bogota VFW Post 5561 Bergenfield VFW Post 6467 Ladies Auxiliary 12 Bogota VFW Ladies Post 5561 Bergenfield VFW Post DAV Bergen County Chapter 15 Lyndhurst American Legion Post Rochelle Park American Legion Riders 170 South Hackensack Anthony LoPresti VFW Post Waldwick American Legion Post 57 Walter Nightengale American Legion SAL Squad Rochelle Park American Legion SAL Squad 170 Ho-Ho-Kus VFW Post Rutherford American Legion SAL DAV Chapter Oakland American Legion Post 369 District Rochelle Park American Legion Post 170 Marine Corps League Gooney Bird Detachment 434 Elks Club Lodge 2167 Elks Club Lodge 2475 Palisades Park/Fort Lee Lodge 14 Waldwick American Legion Post 57 Walter Nightengale Rochelle Park American Legion Auxiliary Unit Elks Club Lodge 2167 Elks Club Lodge 2475 Palisades Park/Fort Lee Lodge Mahwah American Legion Post 531 North Arlington VFW Post Teaneck American Legion Post 128 Wood-Ridge Post VFW Post 3616 Wood-Ridge VFW Post Pompton Lakes Marine Corp Detachment Fair Lawn American Legion Post 171 Auxiliary Fair Lawn American Legion Post Northern Valley Chapter 32 of the DAV Paramus VFW Post

18 VETERANS POSTS MEETING SCHEDULE FEBRUARY 2016 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 7 New Milford- Teaneck JWV Post 498 Fair Lawn Jewish War Veterans Post 651 Fort Lee Jewish War Veterans Post American Legion Alexander Stover Post 37 Waldwick American Legion Post 57 Walter Nightengale Ladies Auxiliary Unit Cliffside Park American Legion Post 126 Teaneck VFW Post Rutherford American Legion Post 109 SAL Squadron Rutherford American Legion Post 109 Auxiliary Unit Lyndhurst American Legion Post 139 Fort Lee Post 2342 Bogota VFW Post 5561 Bergenfield VFW Post 6467 Ladies Auxiliary 9 Bogota VFW Ladies Post 5561 Bergenfield VFW Post Rochelle Park American Legion Riders 170 South Hackensack Anthony LoPresti VFW Post Waldwick American Legion Post 57 Walter Nightengale American Legion SAL Squad Rochelle Park American Legion SAL Squad 170 Ho-Ho-Kus VFW Post Rochelle Park American Legion Post 170 Marine Corps League Gooney Bird Detachment 434 Elks Club Lodge 2167 Elks Club Lodge 2475 Palisades Park/Fort Lee Lodge 11 Waldwick American Legion Post 57 Walter Nightengale Rochelle Park American Legion Auxiliary Unit Fair Lawn American Legion SAL Fair Lawn American Legion Post 171 Auxiliary Fair Lawn American Legion Post Northern Valley Chapter 32 of the DAV VVA Chapter Bergen County 16 DAV Bergen County Chapter 15 Lyndhurst American Legion Post Rutherford American Legion SAL DAV Chapter Oakland American Legion Post 369 District 2 18 Elks Club Lodge 2167 Elks Club Lodge 2475 Palisades Park/Fort Lee Lodge VFW Post 4697 North Arlington Mahwah American Legion Post 531 North Arlington VFW Post Teaneck American Legion Post 128 Pompton Lakes Marine Corp League Detachment 744 Wood-Ridge Post VFW Post Paramus VFW Post

19 VETERANS POSTS MEETING SCHEDULE MARCH 2016 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 Rutherford American Legion Post 109 Auxiliary Unit Lyndhurst American Legion Post 139 Fort Lee Post 2342 Bogota VFW Post 5561 Bergenfield VFW Post 6467 Ladies Auxiliary 2 Rochelle Park American Legion Riders 170 South Hackensack Anthony LoPresti VFW Post Rochelle Park American Legion Post 170 Marine Corps League Gooney Bird Detachment 434 Elks Club Lodge 2167 Elks Club Lodge 2475 Palisades Park/Fort Lee Lodge 4 Fair Lawn American Legion SAL New Milford- Teaneck JWV Post 498 Fair Lawn Jewish War Veterans Post 651 Fort Lee Jewish War Veterans Post American Legion Alexander Stover Post 37 Waldwick American Legion Post 57 Walter Nightengale Ladies Auxiliary Unit Cliffside Park American Legion Post 126 Teaneck VFW Post Rutherford American Legion Post 109 SAL Squadron Bogota VFW Ladies Post 5561 Bergenfield VFW Post DAV Bergen County Chapter 15 Lyndhurst American Legion Post Waldwick American Legion Post 57 Walter Nightengale American Legion SAL Squad Rochelle Park American Legion SAL Squad 170 Ho-Ho-Kus VFW Post Rutherford American Legion SAL Waldwick American Legion Post 57 Walter Nightengale Rochelle Park American Legion Auxiliary Unit Mahwah American Legion Post 531 Elks Club Lodge 2167 Elks Club Lodge 2475 Palisades Park/Fort Lee Lodge VFW Post 4697 North Arlington 11 Fair Lawn American Legion Post 171 Auxiliary Fair Lawn American Legion Post Northern Valley Chapter 32 of the DAV Paramus VFW Post VVA Chapter Bergen County Oakland American Legion Post 369 District 2 24 Pompton Lakes Marine Corp League Detachment 744 Wood-Ridge Post VFW Post DAV Chapter Teaneck American Legion Post 128

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